Welcome to Gaming in Overtime! After 15 years we delved back into the chilling corridors of Dead Space and rediscovered the horror that once again awaited us. Developed by Visceral Games, this iconic survival horror title has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its release, and with the remastered release this year it’s the perfect opportunity to revisit.
Set aboard the desolate mining ship USG Ishimura, “Dead Space” plunges players into a nightmarish world infested with grotesque creatures known as Necromorphs. Or the puppets of, ‘oh crap what was that, is that moving, did I see something, aaahhhhhh, run run run’. As Isaac Clarke, an engineer tasked with investigating the distress signal sent from the Ishimura, players must fight for survival and face their deepest fears in this gripping sci-fi thriller.
One of the standout features of “Dead Space” is its spine-chilling atmosphere and impeccable sound design. From the hauntingly eerie sounds echoing through the metallic halls to the flickering lights that cast unsettling shadows, the game creates an immersive and tension-filled environment. Every creak and moan of the ship adds to the feeling of isolation and impending doom, intensifying the player’s sense of vulnerability. Combined with the brilliantly composed score, “Dead Space” masterfully keeps players on the edge of their seats throughout the entire experience.
The strategic dismemberment gameplay mechanic is another stroke of genius that sets “Dead Space” apart from other horror titles. Instead of relying solely on conventional shooting mechanics, players must aim for the Necromorphs’ limbs to defeat them effectively. This adds a layer of depth and strategy to combat, forcing players to think quickly in dire situations. The satisfying crunch of tearing apart a Necromorph limb by limb with precision adds to the game’s visceral and gruesome nature.
Moreover, the narrative in “Dead Space” is remarkably engaging and complements the haunting atmosphere. As players uncover the tragic fate of the Ishimura’s crew through audio logs and cryptic messages, they become emotionally invested in Isaac’s journey. The game cleverly blends science fiction with psychological horror, providing a thought-provoking experience that stays with players long after the credits roll. The underlying mystery and gradual unravelling of the plot keep players engrossed, always yearning to discover the truth behind the ship’s calamity.
However, “Dead Space” is not without its flaws. The game’s save system, while adding to the tension, can be frustrating for players. Restricted to using specific save points, players may find themselves repeating sections multiple times after facing challenging encounters. This design choice, though intended to increase the stakes, can occasionally disrupt the flow of the game and test the patience of even the most seasoned players.
In conclusion, “Dead Space” is as good as ever and worthy of it’s original groundbreaking and masterpiece status in the survival horror genre. With its spine-tingling atmosphere, strategic combat, and captivating narrative, we believe it remains a must-play for horror enthusiasts and gamers alike. The game’s ability to evoke genuine fear and tension throughout the journey is a testament to Visceral Games’ exceptional craftsmanship. Although the save system may prove irksome to some, the overall experience of “Dead Space” is an unforgettable rollercoaster of terror and triumph that will leave players craving more.
The remaster is nice but pricier on the pocket than the original which is still available either second hand for console players or steam for PC based players. In our opinion, while the remaster is pretty, the original still stands as a perfectly playable release of the game and still ensures the atmosphere and engagement a horror title needs to be successful at what it does.
Well worthy of your overtime!
