[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/","headline":"Alone in the Dark Review: Legacy and Revival","name":"Alone in the Dark Review: Legacy and Revival","description":"A Forgotten Legacy Navigating the realm of what might be dubbed a “less-known legacy” can indeed be peculiar. While franchises such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill boast dedicated wings in the survival horror pantheon, the oft-cited progenitor of the genre has not achieved the same level of critical or commercial success. The last entry,…","datePublished":"2024-04-26","dateModified":"2024-07-14","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/author\/andre\/#Person","name":"Andrej Kovacevic","url":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/author\/andre\/","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/techloot-editor-150x150.jpg","url":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/techloot-editor-150x150.jpg","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Tech Loot","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/techlootio.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/techloot-footer-logo.png","url":"https:\/\/techlootio.wpengine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/techloot-footer-logo.png","width":600,"height":60}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Screenshot_405.jpg","url":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/Screenshot_405.jpg","height":429,"width":717},"url":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/","video":{"@context":"http:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"VideoObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ#VideoObject","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ","name":"Alone in the Dark - PS5\/Xbox Series X\/S Tech Review - A Survival Horror Classic Revamped","description":"The original Alone in the Dark - hailing all the way back from 1992 - is re-imagined with Unreal Engine 4. The story and puzzle elements are dramatically overhauled, where PS5, Series X and S strive for 60fps gameplay in a decent performance mode. However there are technical rough points to this release which detract from what could be a much better game.\n\nSubscribe for more Digital Foundry: http:\/\/bit.ly\/DFSubscribe\n\nJoin the DF Patreon to support the team more directly and to get access to everything we do via pristine quality downloads: https:\/\/bit.ly\/3jEGjvx\n\nWant some DF-branded tee-shirts, mugs, hoodies and more? Check out our store: https:\/\/store.digitalfoundry.net\n\nFor commercial enquiries, please contact business@digitalfoundry.net\n\n00:00 Intro\/1992 Original Retrospective\n02:38 Visual Features\n04:50 Image Quality Comparisons\n06:45 Frame-Rate tests\n12:06 Analysis and Conclusion","thumbnailUrl":["https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/pRbtHKfiolQ\/default.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/pRbtHKfiolQ\/mqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/pRbtHKfiolQ\/hqdefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/pRbtHKfiolQ\/sddefault.jpg","https:\/\/i.ytimg.com\/vi\/pRbtHKfiolQ\/maxresdefault.jpg"],"uploadDate":"2024-04-13T16:30:36+00:00","duration":"PT13M43S","embedUrl":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/pRbtHKfiolQ","publisher":{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC9PBzalIcEQCsiIkq36PyUA#Organization","url":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC9PBzalIcEQCsiIkq36PyUA","name":"Digital Foundry","description":"Digital Foundry specialises in game technology and hardware reviews, using bespoke capture and analysis tools to provide a unique look at the way games play. \n\nVisit our website: https:\/\/www.digitalfoundry.net\n\nFor commercial enquiries, please contact business@digitalfoundry.net\n\nFor Chinese Business sponsored by Passion Ark: https:\/\/www.passionark.net\/\n","logo":{"url":"https:\/\/yt3.ggpht.com\/PBh4giP5yBGdq6OxwdAW32ZvLI-uy_kzMAlV7sQ-jTaWK3q4f3euUJL8lFX3onIkHlc6OBCTpQ=s800-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj","width":800,"height":800,"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ#VideoObject_publisher_logo_ImageObject"}},"potentialAction":{"@type":"SeekToAction","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ#VideoObject_potentialAction","target":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ&t={seek_to_second_number}","startOffset-input":"required name=seek_to_second_number"},"interactionStatistic":[[{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_WatchAction","interactionType":{"@type":"WatchAction"},"userInteractionCount":101815}],{"@type":"InteractionCounter","@id":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=pRbtHKfiolQ#VideoObject_interactionStatistic_LikeAction","interactionType":{"@type":"LikeAction"},"userInteractionCount":3748}]},"commentCount":"2","comment":[{"@type":"Comment","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/#Comment1","dateCreated":"2024-05-02 11:27:08","description":"\u201cExcellent!\u201d","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Relevance","url":"https:\/\/stc.marketing\/"}},{"@type":"Comment","@id":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/#Comment2","dateCreated":"2024-05-01 07:28:59","description":"Excellent blog here Also your website loads up very fast What web host are you using Can I get your affiliate link to your host I wish my web site loaded up as quickly as yours lol","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"pilllow","url":"https:\/\/www.pillow.irish"}}],"about":["Gaming"],"wordCount":963,"keywords":["#AloneInTheDark","#ClassicGames","#GameReview","#HorrorGames","#PiecesInteractive","#RetroGaming","#SurvivalHorror","#THQNordic","#VideoGames"],"articleBody":"A Forgotten LegacyNavigating the realm of what might be dubbed a “less-known legacy” can indeed be peculiar. While franchises such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill boast dedicated wings in the survival horror pantheon, the oft-cited progenitor of the genre has not achieved the same level of critical or commercial success. The last entry, described metaphorically as syphilis in game form (Alone in the Dark: Illumination), suggests that the series still carries some cachet, making its revival noteworthy despite its checkered past. The responsibility now falls to Pieces Interactive\u2014a studio under THQ Nordic, previously known for two Titan Quest remaster expansions\u2014to reimagine the 1992 classic, a crucial endeavor given the franchise’s tumultuous history.A Slow StartThe game begins unassumingly with Emily Hartwood (voiced by Jodie Comer) receiving a cryptically penned letter from her uncle Jeremy. Alongside private detective Edward Carnby (David Harbour), she travels to Derceto Mansion in the wilderness of 1930s Louisiana. Jeremy’s disappearance is the mystery at hand, though it\u2019s hard to discern given the demeanor of Derceto\u2019s staff and guests\u2014expecting vivacity in a semi-psychiatric ward is a tall order. Players can choose to navigate the mystery as either Carnby or Hartwood, uncovering both Jeremy’s whereabouts and the dark secrets haunting the mansion.Shifting RealitiesThe term “leaving” is hardly appropriate, as the mansion is riddled with locked compartments and secret doors, acting as portals into parts of Jeremy’s subconscious. Unlike similar plot devices in films like Inception, the way these dreamscapes merge into Derceto is more jarring, as if an action performed conjured voodoo magic transforming a guest room into a decrepit shack in the swamps. A mysterious entity known as “The Dark Man” seems to have cursed the estate, enabling this seamless realm shifting.(Image credit: ztgd)Character Depth and DialogueWriter\/Director Mikael Hedberg, renowned for his work on SOMA and Amnesia: The Dark Descent, has taken an intriguing narrative approach, particularly with character development and dialogue. Whether exploring the Voodoo Neverland or engaging in dialogue, there’s a palpable tension, especially during later reflections. Yet, some characters, like the red-headed girl Grace, provoke more by teasing than explaining, adding to the narrative’s oddity. Jodie Comer\u2019s portrayal might sound lethargic and exasperated at times, but it meshes well with the oppressive atmosphere, providing a refreshing counter to the ubiquitous Marvel quips in today’s culture.Environmental StorytellingHedberg emphasizes environmental storytelling and collectibles intricately woven into the narrative. For players deeply invested in Alone’s storyline, there\u2019s a demand to engage with background materials extensively, as many characters and plot elements, like a forgotten artist colony, would benefit from more screen time. The reliance on flavor text can be overwhelming, but the enigmatic nature of Derceto Mansion’s history and its connection to varied dreamscapes and voodoo magic significantly enrich the experience, despite some narrative clich\u00e9s.Puzzle ComplexityWhile the narrative feels like homework at times, some lore tidbits lead to the game\u2019s most brilliant puzzles. Carnby\u2019s detective skills shine when scanning rooms for clues and correlating them with previous notes, with zodiac symbols serving as locks or codes being a notable example. However, not all puzzles are created equal; some devolve into basic matching exercises that lack depth and originality.Combat MechanicsCombat maintains a good rhythm, although it doesn\u2019t bring any surprises. The arsenal includes standard firearms and a selection of melee weapons, with environmental tactics playing a key role in conserving ammunition. The combat scenarios often feel too scripted, and the inability to store items like Molotov cocktails for later use adds an element of tactical awkwardness to the engagements.Exploring DercetoDespite the game’s combat simplicity, exploring Derceto and its dreamscapes remains thoroughly enjoyable. The layout of the mansion and its various blocked paths encourages careful exploration, complemented by the protagonist’s commentary guiding players through the estate. The diverse environments, from sunken tombs to fog-laden warehouses, are a testament to the game’s atmospheric design and careful attention to environmental storytelling.(Image credit: ztgd)The Value of ExplorationThe allure of traversing beautiful locations might significantly influence the overall appeal of Alone. Completing a near “completionist” playthrough as Carnby\u2014an intensive 8-hour endeavor\u2014feels somewhat modest against the current middle-market standard for a $60 game, especially given its varied elements. Although the core gameplay remains consistent, with just the lead\/support roles reversed, each leader\u2019s campaign feels more substantial than merely an “Another Game+” mode. Admittedly, I haven\u2019t finished my second run with Hartwood yet, but I could quickly discern and appreciate the subtle differences between the two leads. Small details like varied character interactions (both in cutscenes and in-game) and character-specific collectibles, along with significant aspects like unique levels for each character, add enough depth to rise above a mere gimmick. Given the game\u2019s already brief core experience, requiring players to complete two full playthroughs to unlock a secret ending doesn\u2019t seem unreasonable or burdensome.Legacy and ExpectationsIt might seem odd to consider that Pieces Interactive had big shoes to fill with this series’ legacy. Was it truly a daunting legacy, given the more recent missteps over two decades? Yet, there\u2019s something inherently compelling about seeing ‘Alone In the Dark’ emblazoned on a title screen, evoking a cherished history. In this respect, perhaps the greatest success of this reboot lies in its ability to honor that spirit through its imaginative world. It\u2019s also fair to acknowledge criticisms regarding its survival horror mechanics, puzzle-solving, and other aspects; it certainly won\u2019t be hailed as a trailblazer like the 1992 original. However, the blend of goodwill tied to its brighter qualities straddles the line between being tragically flawed and impressively engaging."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Gaming","item":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Alone in the Dark Review: Legacy and Revival","item":"https:\/\/techloot.co.uk\/gaming\/alone-in-the-dark-review\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]