Summary
- Release Year: 1996
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: haiku studios
- Publishers: philips media
Down in the Dumps (1996)
Introduction
Down in the Dumps is a point-and-click adventure game developed by French Haiku Studios and published by Philips Media in 1996 for DOS and Windows. A year later, it was ported to the Apple Macintosh. The game is set in a dark and gloomy world filled with bizarre characters and surreal landscapes. The player takes on the role of Tony, a private investigator who is hired to find a missing person.
Gameplay
Down in the Dumps is a classic point-and-click adventure game. The player uses the mouse to interact with the environment and solve puzzles. The game world is divided into a series of screens, and the player can move between screens by clicking on the exits.
The game’s puzzles are varied and challenging. Some puzzles require the player to find and use objects, while others require the player to solve logic puzzles or riddles. The game also features a number of timed puzzles, which add to the challenge.
Setting
Down in the Dumps is set in a dark and gloomy world that is filled with bizarre characters and surreal landscapes. The game’s world is divided into a number of different areas, each with its own unique atmosphere.
One of the most striking things about Down in the Dumps is its use of color. The game’s world is awash in dark and muted colors, which creates a sense of unease and dread. The game’s characters are also often grotesque and unsettling, which adds to the game’s overall atmosphere.
Characters
The player takes on the role of Tony, a private investigator who is hired to find a missing person. Tony is a cynical and world-weary character, but he is also intelligent and resourceful.
Tony interacts with a number of different characters throughout the game. Some of these characters are helpful, while others are hostile. The player must learn to trust the right people and avoid the wrong ones.
Story
The story of Down in the Dumps is complex and engaging. The player is hired to find a missing person, but the case quickly becomes more complicated. Tony soon discovers that the missing person is involved in a dangerous conspiracy.
As Tony investigates the case, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit. He must use all of his skills to solve the case and bring the criminals to justice.
Reception
Down in the Dumps received positive reviews from critics upon its release. The game was praised for its dark and atmospheric setting, its challenging puzzles, and its engaging story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Down in the Dumps is considered to be one of the best adventure games of the 1990s. The game’s dark and atmospheric setting, challenging puzzles, and engaging story have made it a cult classic among adventure game fans.
Down in the Dumps has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, including the PlayStation, the Sega Saturn, and the Nintendo DS. The game has also been released on GOG.com and Steam.
Conclusion
Down in the Dumps is a classic adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s dark and atmospheric setting, challenging puzzles, and engaging story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
