Parasite Eve II • Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell
Hot off the heels of the successful Resident Evil trilogy, Dino Crisis, and Silent Hill games (and by hot, I mean hot, there were four survival-horror titles released for the PlayStation 1 in the year of 1999 – Parasite Eve II being the last of the heralded genre at the time), this barely remembered IP suffers some anonymity today despite the favourable reviews of its day. Which is a shame, considering all the new elements it brought to its genus of games as well as its fine story direction by the original writer of Resident Evil, Kenichi Iwao.
Convoluted conspiracies and cocoons
First off, what’s interesting to know (but completely unimportant) is that this game actually serves as the second sequel to a Japanese science-fiction horror novel that spawned the entry prior to this game. Secondly, as I said, it totally doesn’t matter. This story is off-the-walls bonkers and is so obtuse in its efforts to create intriguing threads of mystery and backstory between its characters and the shady organisation they are fighting against that it would take a legitimate consipracy theorist to piece it all together. Basically, it turns out that the mitochondria in our cells are their own organisms and that some people are using them to produce ‘magic’ from their bodies, and some are using them to breed humans out of existence with cocoons. That’s all I got, and in classic Japanese fashion, that’s all you need. Oh, and there’s a kidnapped little girl that looks like you?
Magic? In a survival-horror game?
The previous entry in the series was a horror JRPG, featuring turn-based battles. This sequel capitalises on the success of the survival-horror methods of exploration, item management, and puzzle-solving whilst retaining the flavour of its JRPG predecessor with elements such as the aforementioned convoluted storyline and magic points. This is what makes Parasite Eve II stands out the most as a fantastic title of the era. The magic operates in real time and showcases the AOE (area of effect) that any given spell may cover, offering an additional gameplay mechanic that can really turn the tide in some overwhelming scenarios. Enemies are faster, larger, and more plentiful in this game, and having a magic system that can ignite a dome of flame around your character, or heal you instantly, or lower the defense of an opponent is a much welcomed feature that elevates the game’s sophistication.
Horror in the daytime
Much of this game takes place in the Mojave, in a small, almost abandoned town called Dryfield. This locale becomes so unique and visually interesting that players won’t want to escape the horror, they’ll want to stay in it as long possible if it means that they’ll get to keep hearing 16-bit crows caw, doors creak shut, and lonely boots kicking up gravel. For all these agents, and those inherent to the survival-horror genre, it is remarkable to experience a pre-rendered map pull off horror in the daytime so well (a feat remarkable for any medium of horror). Only small sections of the game take place at night, and there are a few stretches of gameplay that take place in secret underground bases, but eventually you are returned to daylight and reminded that this game knows it doesn’t need spooky, dark mansions to scare you.
If you can get your hands on it…
This game is rare. Not only is it a PS1 title, but the game itself is a bit of a collector’s item for fans of the genre. If you do have a PS1 (or a PS3 to emulate it), and can get it, do so. Without hesitation. Apart from the insane story (which I think is a part of the JRPG charm) and the tank controls that may turn people away from survival-horror, especially old school survival-horror, this game is a not to be missed experience. Also, if you need anymore convincing, Parasite Eve II has one of the best boss introductions of any game I’ve ever played. Periodt. It’s a relic of the past, with emphasis on the word ‘relic’. Four out of five Cthulhus. More to be read here.
(4 / 5)
Gaming
Lovecraft Meets Junji Ito in WORLD OF HORROR
WORLD OF HORROR is a cosmic horror roguelite game developed by Paweł Koźmiński and published by Ysbryd Games.
WORLD OF HORROR is a cosmic horror roguelite game developed by Paweł Koźmiński and published by Ysbryd Games. The game is available on macOS, Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. This review will cover the Steam (Windows) version of the game.
You must explore the strange goings on around Shiokawa, Japan. It appears that eldritch forces have influenced the town in incomprehensible ways. So, attempt to comprehend these forces and maintain your sanity to save the town. Plan your investigations, choose between cases, and fight for your life.
There are a few game modes but three difficulty spikes. The easiest is a specific case with some random events. This mode teaches you the basic mechanics of the game. The harder difficulties give you access to an apartment and choices on which case you investigate. Completing objectives earns you customization options for the customized mode.
What I Like About WORLD OF HORROR
Running on GameMaker Studios, the pixelated aesthetic shows influences from Lovecraft and Junji Ito, though the latter more so than the former. WORLD OF HORROR haunts its viewers with its aesthetic, allowing the pixels to evoke those horror legends.
Random generation remains a key feature of the game, with various options and choices giving a massive variety. Your character also has some limited customization to access perks and further development. I will bring up some weaknesses later, but it is surprisingly vast. Adding to this variety, WORLD OF HORROR provides mod accessibility.
The combat allows for a great deal of thought and planning. You select your character’s actions within an action bar and perform the tasks (or combos) to beat an opponent. This JRPG style provides variety in action that makes it engaging and unique.
The random generation and variety make each playthrough different. You might acquire a devastating katana in one playthrough only to bleed out unceremoniously in another.
While not a terrifying gaming experience, WORLD OF HORROR strives to provide an eerie and intense experience. At this, the game is a success. The weird and unnerving collide to invest the player in this strange world.
Tired Tropes and Triggers
Body horror deserves a mention, but the aesthetic and pixels doesn’t particularly evoke realism. Regardless, many designs evoke body horror.
Aside from this, here are some points of consideration. First, WORLD OF HORROR uses JRPG turn-based combat, which seems a point of division among some gamers. However, there are enough interesting mechanics and complexities beyond clicking an action and waiting your turn.
Second, WORLD OF HORROR isn’t a cult detective. You’re experiencing events and choosing how your character responds. Some sage wisdom I heard for WORLD OF HORROR is to focus on the whole campaign instead of a single case. Failing a case isn’t a game over, so prioritize your character’s longevity.
What I Dislike About WORLD OF HORROR
Only a few issues hindered my experience. Some scenarios replay on a single case, let alone a playthrough, which becomes repetitive. Some scenarios have multiple solutions to add variety or require perks to access new options, but that’s not always true. This issue makes the randomization taxing at times.
This next issue is likely a bug or an oversight. After losing my reason (sanity), I found myself still able to investigate despite the game claiming that means death. An unrelated event finished me off, but I can’t help but assume this is a bug.
Final Thoughts
WORLD OF HORROR has its quirks but earns massive replay value and surprising depth. It’s a unique and ambitious indie title worth the price. If Junji Ito’s style or cosmic horror is your particular brand of horror, WORLD OF HORROR delivers an experience you’ll likely enjoy. Though this combination synergizes well, few games combine these elements successfully.
(4.5 / 5)
Step into the mind-bending world of Eldritch Automata as we sit down with Game Designer Nick Francia at GenCon 2024!
Uncover the secrets behind this Lovecraftian mecha-masterpiece and get a glimpse of what’s to come.
In this exclusive interview, Nick Francia shares:
• The intricate game development process • Inspirations behind the eerie Lovecraftian elements
• Unique mecha-infused gameplay mechanics Calling all Lovecraft fans! Dive into a world where eldritch horrors meet steam-powered marvels.
Eldritch Automata promises an unforgettable gaming experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
👉 Ready to embrace the madness? Check out our playable demo at a con near you! #EldritchAutomata #GenCon2024 #LovecraftianGaming #IndieGameDev
Prepare for a spine-chilling experience as Jim Phoenix delves into the shadows with Trick or Treat Studios at GenCon 2024!
In this exclusive interview, we uncover the terrifying secrets behind their latest bone-chilling creations: “House of 1000 Corpses” and “Halloween II” board games.
These games aren’t just about rolling dice – they’re about immersing yourself in the blood-curdling atmosphere of beloved horror films. With unique survival (and kill!) horror mechanics and cooperative gameplay, you’ll feel the terror coursing through your veins with every move!
But wait, there’s more! With the Kickstarter to House of 1000 Corpses shipping soon, we have an in-depth review coming up for that game, Halloween II–AND…Chucky. BOOMMM!!!
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