Alone in the Dark- a lesson to be learned
posted by 21stCDB (KNOXVILLE, TN) Jun 28, 2008
Member since Jun 2008
105
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While I play all genres of games, survival horror is probably my favorite. I, like everyone else, have been anxiously looking forward to this game's release.
AitD sets new standards and is intrepid in many ways, but is virtually unplayable. It is gorgeous visually and in essentially every other way, and the possibilities in game play are vast. However, there are two major flaws that virtually butcher the game.
First, the controls have an awful lag, so quick reactions are inaccurate and unreliable. No, it is not my system or TV, both function perfectly with every other game. Second, the camera angles force the player to randomly switch between first and third person mode just to move properly or get a decent view/angle. The second problem could be tolerated if the first were not so detrimental.
IGN, gamespot, etc. have often criticized the controller setup of the game. I think this criticism is unmerited, the design seems perfectly reasonable for its purpose. The real problem with the controls is the lag, and this muddy movement essentially destroys the game. It is difficult to fight or move appropriately with such a slow response time, making game play far more challenging for no good reason.
This game is a stunning example of what could be created for next-gen systems. At the same time, it is a tragedy, because the game could have been a masterpiece had minor flaws been corrected. What a waste. The lesson to be learned is USE GAME TESTERS APPROPRIATELY.
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