Parasite Eve

"The worst foe lies within the self."

Parasite Eve is if anything a very unique game that has original gameplay and an original storyline. It's also one of the few video games to be based off of a book, in fact it's a sequel to the book. Unlike most games where there is a definite villain, there really isn't in this game. I mean there is a main boss but thats not what I mean. The true enemy of this game is the parasite Mitochondria, all of them, if evolved correctly have the ability to wreck havoc on the human race. Eve just happens to be the catalyst for this invasion so to speak. So lets begin the review.

Story - 10/10

No I'm not sure how much better this story could get, it's just so unlike anything else. Also it's not completely fiction, a lot of it is true. The Mitochondria really are a separate organism that can evolve on it's own. So that adds a rather creepy factor to this amazing game. I recommend you also pick up the translated book, it is the prequel to this and is a good read. Overall the story is amazing and highly deserves the 10 it is receiving, but as with most squaresoft games it's no surprise the Story is marvelous.

Gameplay - 8/10

By far this is aside from the story one of the most unique parts of the game ever. It plays quite a bit like a typical survival horror except the battles are one part Survival Horror and one part RPG. You have complete control over her movements and she can move anywhere, dodge attacks, etc. However, the rpg element is that in order to attack you must wait for an active time bar to fill up. After it does you can select a Parasite Energy spell which takes PE Energy, similar to MP. You can use items and such and you switch weapons and armor. This is how it's completely different than any other RPG or Survival Horror game, it's the best of both worlds. This system makes the battles both fun and challenging, after you beat this game you'll feel accomplished. You can also use tools to upgrade your weapons and combine parts from another weapon to your current one to add effects, attack power, or upgrade the number of bullets it fires per turn. All unique systems that make this game so much fun to play. Although sometimes if you're not prepared it can be extremely difficult. You really have to learn to manage your ammo and medicines, or you could find yourself stuck on day 6 and have to start over or tediously battle enemies.

Graphics - 8/10

The graphics are far from the best but they were good for the time. I'm really not going to compare them to modern games, because if I did all games that are several years old would have horrible graphic ratings. The game has decent graphics, which mostly shine in the backgrounds which are very defined. Also the FMVs are beautifully rendered for your viewing pleasure. Definitely not bad.

Sound - 10/10

The music and sound does exactly whats intended, it creates of feeling of despair and uncertainty. The theme song is completely catchy and the opera music is done very well and also adds to the feeling of the game. The rest of the music is nothing remarkable as in I'd listen to it while not playing the game, but it's a true masterpiece while playing the game. The only songs I'd listen to outside of the game is the opening, and the different themes, and the ending. The rest of the music is just meant to inspire emotions and such. It works really well with it tho.

Replayability - 9/10

The reason the score is rather high even tho the game is somewhat short is because of the ex-game mode and the dungeon, which takes quite a while to complete and is rather difficult. But if you want to upgrade certain guns and armor and give them names as well as see the second ending via beating the dungeon, you'll have to play through it again. During Ex-game you keep all your items but your level is reset. Also, the enemies are a bit harder, so be prepared for hell in a video game.

Overall - 10/10

The game is a true masterpiece, all the parts come together so well and natural. Nothing really feels out of place whatsoever. I recommend everyone who loves rpgs or survival horror games at least pick it up or rent it. You may be pleasantly surprised by the uniqueness that you will come to love in due time. The game has a lot of theories about extinction and it really makes you think about how fragile the human race can really be and at the same time how strong it can be. How the world is in a very sensitive balance, and any small action can upset this balance. It basically says that we'll have to change our ways if we wish to keep living on the Earth for centuries to come. Humans are kind of parasites themselves, we can only thrive if we milk the Earth for her resources, and the Earth may fight back if we take too much. It's just a warning to all those who think our civilization is so rock solid and unbreakable. Alas, we can all learn a thing or two from this game; the worst foe lies within.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 11/07/06