Developer: RedBedlam

Bedlam (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Bedlam: A Cerebral Shooter That Explores the Evolution of FPS Games

Introduction

Bedlam, released in 2014, is a first-person shooter (FPS) video game that takes players on a unique and mind-bending journey through the evolution of the FPS genre. Based on the novel of the same name by award-winning British author Christopher Brookmyre, Bedlam challenges players to not only survive in a hostile and ever-changing game world, but also to question the nature of reality itself.

Gameplay

Players take on the role of Heather Quinn, a programmer at medical scanning developer Neurosphere. After a mysterious accident, Heather finds herself transported into the world of Starfire, a nineties FPS she remembers from her teen years. As she searches for an explanation and a way home, she ventures beyond Starfire to discover a vast realm of interconnected game worlds, each representing a different era in the evolution of FPS games.

Bedlam’s gameplay is a unique blend of traditional FPS action and puzzle-solving. Players must navigate through each game world, battling enemies and overcoming environmental obstacles, while also solving puzzles related to the history and mechanics of FPS games. For example, in one world, players must use their knowledge of old-school FPS level design to find a hidden key, while in another, they must master the art of bunny hopping to progress.

Setting

The game world of Bedlam is a vast and ever-changing labyrinth of interconnected game worlds. Each world is a faithful recreation of a different era in FPS history, from the early days of Wolfenstein 3D to the modern era of Call of Duty and Battlefield. As players progress through the game, they will encounter a wide variety of enemies, from classic zombies and aliens to more modern foes like SWAT teams and cyborgs.

Story

The story of Bedlam is a complex and multi-layered one that explores themes of identity, reality, and the nature of video games. As Heather Quinn journeys through the different game worlds, she begins to question her own memories and experiences. She also discovers that the game world is not what it seems, and that there is a deeper mystery at play.

Graphics and Sound

Bedlam’s graphics are a unique blend of retro and modern styles. The game worlds are rendered in a colorful and stylized manner, but with a distinctly retro feel. The character models and animations are also stylized, but with a level of detail that is impressive for an indie game.

The sound design in Bedlam is top-notch. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of electronic and orchestral music that perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere. The sound effects are also excellent, with each weapon and enemy having its own unique sound.

Reception

Bedlam received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising its unique gameplay, clever puzzles, and thought-provoking story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Conclusion

Bedlam is a unique and unforgettable FPS experience that challenges players to not only survive, but also to think critically about the nature of video games. With its clever puzzles, thought-provoking story, and stunning graphics and sound, Bedlam is a must-play for fans of FPS games and anyone interested in the evolution of video games as a medium.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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