Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Point-and-click
- Platforms: iOS, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Phoenix Online Studios
- Publishers: Phoenix Online Publishing
Cognition: An Erica Reed Thriller is a four-part episodic adventure game developed by Phoenix Online Studios and published by Phoenix Games. The game was released on Windows, Mac, and Linux in 2013, and on iOS and Android in 2014.
The game follows FBI agent Erica Reed, who has the uncanny ability to see the past and piece together how a crime unfolded. Erica’s brother, Scott, was murdered three years ago, and the investigation into his death has gone cold. Erica is determined to find Scott’s killer, and she believes that her unique ability will help her to do so.
Erica’s investigation leads her to Boston, where a serial killer is on the loose. The killer is leaving behind deliberate clues that only Erica, with her post-cognitive abilities, can uncover. Erica soon realizes that the killer knows her secret, and she is forced to confront the demons of her past.
Gameplay
Cognition is a point-and-click adventure game. The player controls Erica as she explores crime scenes, interviews witnesses, and solves puzzles. Erica’s post-cognitive ability allows her to see the past, and the player can use this ability to gather information and solve puzzles.
The game is divided into four episodes, each of which has its own unique setting and cast of characters. The player must solve a series of puzzles in each episode in order to progress the story.
Characters
- Erica Reed is the protagonist of the game. She is an FBI agent with the uncanny ability to see the past. Erica is determined to find her brother’s killer, and she believes that her unique ability will help her to do so.
- Scott Reed is Erica’s younger brother. He was murdered three years ago, and the investigation into his death has gone cold. Erica is haunted by Scott’s death, and she is determined to find his killer.
- Detective Howard Wright is a Boston police detective who is assigned to investigate the serial killings. He is skeptical of Erica’s abilities at first, but he eventually comes to believe her.
- Dr. Richard Augustine is a psychiatrist who is helping Erica to understand her abilities. He believes that Erica’s post-cognitive ability is a gift, and he encourages her to use it to help others.
Setting
Cognition is set in Boston, Massachusetts. The game takes place in a variety of locations, including crime scenes, police stations, and hospitals. The game’s atmosphere is dark and suspenseful, and the player is constantly on the edge of their seat.
Themes
Cognition explores a number of themes, including grief, loss, and redemption. Erica is haunted by the death of her brother, and she is determined to find his killer. The game also explores the nature of good and evil, and the choices that people make in the face of adversity.
Reception
Cognition received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and innovative gameplay. The game was also nominated for a number of awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Adventure Game.
Legacy
Cognition is a well-regarded adventure game that has been praised for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and innovative gameplay. The game has a loyal following of fans, and it is considered to be one of the best adventure games of its generation.
Overall
Cognition: An Erica Reed Thriller is a gripping and suspenseful adventure game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Erica’s unique ability to see the past is a fascinating mechanic, and the story is full of twists and turns. If you are a fan of adventure games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Cognition.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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