Ok, before I embark on an epic quest, I just want to say the following. I love Eternal Darkness to bits. It’s one of the very few game’s in recent years that has totally “enthralled me to the point where I can think of nothing else”. Although I really don’t like the thought of someone coming up with such brutal and evil storyline ideas, I think that the amount of attention given to it is totally “mind boggling”, which in itself is reason enough for many to play. But to put it bluntly, this game can be put on the same platform and ranked at the same level as classic movies such as Traffic and Scarface. Not so much on its content, but rather in tone and approach to its audience. Speaking of which, the (Metroid) prime reason why a teenager would ever watch those movies would be for either the erotic scenes or just to be delusionaly cool. Admittedly though, most people who have watched those movies and love their unmistakable genius are definitely not teenagers. Again, those movies are critically acclaimed not for their flash or instant appeal which most youngsters nowadays crave so badly for, but because of all things quality that are associated with them; all of which factor together and combine to create a complete unforgettable experience. Those movies can be watched again and again and again and every time you watch it, something new gets unraveled. Those movies are true adult movies in much the same way as Eternal Darkness (without the sex, foul language and to some extend gore).
In that case, who’s complaining? My friend for one simply doesn’t like Eternal Darkness. He is 20 and loves Mario, Banjo Kazzoie, Warcraft 3 and GoldenEye. He only likes fun and cheerful games. But aside from him who else? Let the truth be said, some adults simply don’t like ED. There are various reasons, namely the content, which at times could for some individuals be considered as very offensive. The slow pace of the game could also be a deterrent. But more often the not it’s the younger people who complain. I am confident of the fact that many of you have bought and played Eternal Darkness illegally due to the fact that you are under aged. I’m even more positive that if everyone were to state their age and their opinion on ED, some surprisingly striking patterns (very surprising
) would start forming. What patterns you ask? Most people who absolutely love this game would in fact turn out to be older gamers. I can’t stress this enough… this game is not for children; it’s not for teenagers; it’s not for the weak of heart; and it’s not for some people period. This game has the evilest story, bar none. It is absolutely adult material that establishes little to no reference (as mentioned above) to sex, gore or foul language (There is some gore, but it’s not particularly emphasized other then two scenes). It’s just a one sickening alternate reality. Another difficult obstacle for younger gamer’s to overcome are the cut-scenes. The cinematics in the game do little to mouth-feed the player with the story. So if your vocabulary is limited and you generally dislike Shakespearian language then forget about the story. So, um… yeah! This is not for younger people.
In the end however, I just need to say that I love this game. Not enough to squeeze it in my signature but I love it nonetheless. True, the gameplay is story driven; meaning without the story the game is no fun, but the integration of plot and gameplay is so well done that any short comings on the play mechanics is easily forgiven. Needless to say that Denis Dyack is probably addressing these very issues on Too Human and perhaps even on Eternal Darkness 2: Sanity’s Redemption.
Of coarse there are exceptions to the rule… If you happen to be the exception, then by all means share your thoughts.
Now that I have covered my views on Eternal Darkness I’d just like to get off topic slightly. It’s about these boards. So if you don’t care fine.
Okay the first thing I’d like to say is:
It’s good to hear fellow gamer’s opinions, but everyone has to remember that this thread is very opinion oriented and occasionally for the wrong reasons. What I am saying is, for all we know the person who started the topic may simply dislike sadistic adventure games such as ED. He might have tried the game only out of curiosity or maybe to see what all the fuss about it was. Or he might have genuinely disliked the game. So there is no reason to bash or praise his opinion. However, giving comments to motivate him to play (…or not) should be made clear, coherent and constructive for the sake of everyone who wishes to participate in the thread. It’s only common sense to assume these boards will be more enjoyable if people behave more intelligently. Similarly people who say something like “that game was overrated” state then and there that the majority of professional game reviewers (who make a living on writing reviews) are undeniably wrong in their synopsis and that what you say is more correct then what “they” say. You could look at the preceding point form whatever angle you wish but ultimately you’re saying “I am right and everyone else is wrong”. I would like to point out that I have no problems with people who express their own opinions on games. In fact, you can write down any mindless irrelevant comment about a game, no matter how biased. But in doing so you’re 1- not going to get your message across to anyone. A direct upshot for that would be the wasted time for both the author and the reader. And 2- You’re not going to get any respect from you fellow gamers. In that regard everyone should reach to the same conclusion that ignorance won’t win over any supporters (in most cases anyway…
).
To all things said, I’d like to add something else. Generally speaking, this type of thread seemingly invites exaggerated comments. Why I say seemingly is because not everyone has time to write a gazzilion word essay consisting of a well rounded impression on a game (that’s why we have reviews). So if someone argues about gameplay only, it may seem like their comments are a little far fetched and in the minority. You can easily overcome this natural annoyance (which nobody is to blame for) by following up on the info you read on this message board… usually done by reading impressions and reviews of a game from great sites such as PGC and Co. rather then post discreetly dull reply’s which cover no new ground. So if you want to say “for me, this game has some flaws and I don’t like it” or anything along those lines, then make sure you have time to back up your claims by providing reasons for your thoughts. In doing that you would have really contributed to the discussion and in the process helped undecided gamers to reach a conclusion, not to mention earn yourself respect.
I guess the reason why I am saying this is because I love Planet Gamecube. I think that the staff is great. They have made a great name for themselves. Any self respecting gamer would show some gratitude by at least abiding by the rules. These guys work really hard and what’s more is we don’t pay a dime. In the end I believe that Planet Gamecube forums have the best staff, really good readers and a very inspiring moderation. All of us on these boards should do our part to contribute. Let’s not waste Rick’s and everyone elses efforts on the boards. So please everyone, let’s help make this place even better.
By the way I never officially wished Planet Gamecube a Happy Birth Day. Great job guy’s you’re the best.
Topic: Why Is Eternal Darkness Regarded So Highly? (Read 12508 times)
