Alone In The Dark Quick Time Review

Developer: Pieces Interactive

Publisher: THQ Nordic

Release date: March 20, 2024

Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S (reviewed on the S)

A reimagining of the 1992 game, Alone In The Dark is the seventh installment of the long running horror series. The game follows Emily Hartwood (Jodie Comer, Killing Eve ) and detective Edward Carnby (David Harbour, Stranger Things ) as they arrive at Derceto Manor, a Southern plantation turned into a mental hospital, in search of Emily’s uncle, Jeremy. The game tells a supernatural tale about a dark being invading the grounds and shifting realities. The game can be played from Emily or Edward’s perspective, and while both tread the same ground, there are some notable differences, especially in relation to iteraction with Derceto’s other occupants. The game takes place over 5 chapters, and one playthrough can take 8-10 hours (completionists will want to do both characters, as it’s the only way to find all the collectibles). There is a nice mix of exploration, investigation, and combat.

PROS

Interesting and engaging story

Excellent voice acting

Good visuals with a suitably creepy atmosphere

Interesting puzzles

Decent combat

Worth playing as both characters

CONS

Can be slow in spots for some

Lot of backtracking

Not a large variety of enemies

Stealth can be tricky and frustrating for some

In all, Alone In The Dark is a nice reimagining of the 1992 game. The story is well told and relayed by excellent voice acting from the two lead characters. The rest of the manor’s inhabitants are an interesting lot, and there’s a nice amount of humor to offset the creepiness. Combat is decent, though melee combat can feel weak. While the enemy types are nicely done, there’s not a wide variety of them. It’s a good idea to play the Alone In The Dark: Prologue demo in conjunction with the main game, as the demo follows the young girl Grace. Those looking for a strong, story based horror tale should enjoy this more, as its slower pace may frustrate those looking for more action. Definitely worth checking out.

8.5/10 stars