Summary
- Release Year: 1991
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click
- Platforms: Amiga, Atari ST/STE, DOS
- Developers: Coktel Vision
- Publishers: Coktel Vision
Fascination (1991): A Noir Adventure with a Twist
Released in 1991, Fascination is a graphic adventure game that combines elements of mystery, intrigue, and film noir. The game was developed by Coktel Vision, a French video game company known for their innovative and atmospheric adventure games.
Plot
The player takes on the role of Paul Gadbois, a businessman who has accidentally come into possession of a sample of a powerful new chemical drug that increases the sex drive. The drug was invented by Dr. Luc Walder, a brilliant but eccentric scientist who was assassinated shortly after completing his research.
Paul soon finds himself caught in a web of intrigue as various factions, including the police, the mob, and a mysterious organization known as The Trust, are all after the drug sample. Paul must use his wits and cunning to avoid being made out as the murderer and to deliver the sample to the right person.
Gameplay
Fascination is a point-and-click adventure game. The player interacts with the game world by clicking on objects and characters. The game features a variety of puzzles, which must be solved in order to progress.
One of the unique features of Fascination is its use of multiple perspectives. The player can switch between playing as Paul and other characters in the game, each with their own unique abilities and perspectives. This allows the player to see the story from different angles and to gather information that would not be available to a single character.
Setting and Atmosphere
Fascination is set in a dark and gritty urban environment. The game’s visuals are heavily influenced by film noir, with its use of shadows, sharp angles, and exaggerated perspectives. The game’s soundtrack is also suitably noirish, with its use of jazz and saxophone music.
The game’s atmosphere is one of constant tension and paranoia. The player never knows who they can trust, and they are always looking over their shoulder. This sense of unease is heightened by the game’s frequent use of jump scares and red herrings.
Characters
Fascination features a cast of well-developed and memorable characters. Paul Gadbois is a complex and flawed protagonist. He is a good man who has been drawn into a dangerous situation. He is determined to do the right thing, but he is also aware that he is out of his depth.
The supporting cast of characters is equally well-drawn. There is the femme fatale, the corrupt cop, the mob boss, and the mysterious stranger. Each character has their own motivations and secrets, and the player must learn to navigate their relationships carefully.
Themes
Fascination explores a number of dark and disturbing themes, including murder, betrayal, and the nature of evil. The game also raises questions about the responsibility of the individual in a corrupt society.
Reception
Fascination was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its atmospheric setting, and its well-developed characters. Fascination is considered to be one of the best adventure games of its era.
Legacy
Fascination has had a lasting impact on the adventure game genre. The game’s use of multiple perspectives and its dark and gritty setting have been influential on many subsequent adventure games. Fascination is also remembered for its innovative use of sound and music to create a truly immersive experience.
Conclusion
Fascination is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. The game’s gripping story, well-developed characters, and atmospheric setting make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a dark and twisted adventure, then Fascination is the game for you.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
