Summary
- Release Year: 1996
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Human Entertainment
- Publishers: ASCII Entertainment, Human Entertainment, Sunsoft
Clock Tower (1996): A Spine-Tingling Survival Horror Classic
Released in 1996 for the PlayStation, Clock Tower is a point-and-click survival horror game that quickly gained a cult following. Developed by Human Entertainment and directed by Hifumi Kono, Clock Tower is known for its suspenseful atmosphere, challenging puzzles, and iconic antagonist, Scissorman.
Story
Clock Tower takes place one year after the events of Clock Tower: The First Fear. Jennifer Simpson, the protagonist of the previous game, has been adopted by Helen Maxwell, the assistant of a renowned psychiatrist, Samuel Barton. Jennifer is currently undergoing treatment at a university research building in Oslo, Norway, to help her cope with her traumatic experiences in the Clock Tower case and possibly shed some light on the mystery that was Scissorman.
However, Jennifer’s peace is short-lived. Scissorman, a towering figure with a pair of giant scissors, returns to terrorize her and her fellow patients. Jennifer must use her wits and courage to survive Scissorman’s relentless pursuit and uncover the dark secrets that lie within the research building.
Gameplay
Clock Tower is a point-and-click adventure game with a strong emphasis on survival horror. Players control Jennifer as she explores the eerie research building, solves puzzles, and avoids Scissorman. The game features a variety of puzzles, ranging from simple object-finding to more complex logic puzzles.
Jennifer is a fragile character, and any encounter with Scissorman can be deadly. Players must carefully manage Jennifer’s health and stamina, as well as her inventory of items. Stealth is essential for survival, as making too much noise can attract Scissorman’s attention.
Atmosphere
Clock Tower’s atmosphere is one of its strongest assets. The game’s graphics, sound design, and music all work together to create a sense of dread and suspense. The research building is a labyrinth of dark corridors, dimly lit rooms, and hidden dangers. Scissorman’s footsteps can be heard echoing through the halls, and his sudden appearances are always heart-stopping.
Characters
Jennifer Simpson is a complex and sympathetic protagonist. She is a young woman who has suffered greatly, but she is determined to overcome her fears and find justice for the victims of Scissorman.
Scissorman is one of the most iconic villains in video game history. He is a relentless and unstoppable force of nature, and his presence always sends shivers down the spines of players.
Legacy
Clock Tower has been praised for its innovative gameplay, suspenseful atmosphere, and iconic antagonist. The game has been ported to multiple platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for fans of survival horror.
Clock Tower has also been influential in the development of other survival horror games. The game’s focus on stealth and exploration has been adopted by many other games in the genre, and Scissorman has become a recognizable symbol of horror gaming.
Conclusion
Clock Tower (1996) is a classic survival horror game that still holds up today. The game’s atmosphere is tense and creepy, the puzzles are challenging but fair, and the antagonist, Scissorman, is truly terrifying. If you’re a fan of the genre, this is one game you don’t want to miss.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
