Obscure: The Aftermath

"Don't Experiment With Strange Looking Flowers"

Introduction

So this game is the sequel to the original Obscure. Now, I never played Obscure, but read about it and the premise sounded very interesting. I love survival horror games and seeing as Obscure: The Aftermath was only $20, I couldn't resist. It takes place 2 years after the original, at a college where things are about to get hellish.

Gameplay

This game is a lot of fun to play. You control 1 character in a pair, exploring environments, solving puzzles, and of course, slaying monsters. Each character has a special ability, i.e.: lock picking, strength, decrypting, hacking, and acrobatics. So as you explore, you need to figure out which characters you need for different obstacles and puzzles. This game is a little difficult. I learned that you could smash vending machines for energy drinks which provide health. There are a few frustrating parts (such maneuvering a girl through a hazardous environment while watching her on a static camera system) and the saving method is a bit out there. You find flowers that let you save, but only once. Once you save there, kiss that point good-bye and hope you aren't jumped by some mutated botanical behemoths. As of right now, I'm still playing through the game and I've been enjoying it immensely (I've also been helped by the guide posted on the GameFAQs Obscure: The Aftermath board). Also, there is the option to have a friend join into the macabre madness. I haven't had the opportunity yet, but I'm looking forward to having a friend kill monsters with me.

Story

The story is fairly interesting. I'd really like to play the first game since some of the characters are from the original. The voice acting and dialogue are great teen-slasher movie fair. The story is actually a bit darker than I had anticipated (most disturbing so far: someone gets raped by a mutant). The thing I've liked the most is that none of the characters are safe. Now about the reason everyones going crazy and mucus-covered monsters are attacking is a bit cliche. But it works.

Graphics/Sound

For $20, the game looks pretty awesome. The music in the game is intense, from eerie children chanting/singing to stringed instruments building up panic, the music is really spot on. The graphics remind me of GTA: San Andreas but cleaner and more crisp. You explore several open ended areas and the game does a nice job of building the fictitious environment. The characters themselves are very well detailed.

Final Recommendation

Having never played the first game and just going off of reviews, I took a chance and bought the game. It was only $20 (which I know can seem like a lot to fellow college students) but it's been a great experience. If you're into survival horror and want to try something a little different and also want to play with a friend, check this game out stat.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 04/28/08

Game Release: Obscure: The Aftermath (US, 03/25/08)