Summary
- Release Year: 1998
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Square
- Publishers: Square, Square Electronic Arts
Parasite Eve (1998): A Classic Survival Horror RPG
Released in 1998 for the Sony PlayStation, Parasite Eve is a groundbreaking survival horror role-playing game (RPG) that captivated gamers with its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and RPG elements. Developed and published by SquareSoft (now Square Enix), the game follows the story of Aya Brea, a rookie NYPD officer who becomes embroiled in a series of bizarre and deadly events related to a genetic mutation known as mitochondria.
Story and Setting
Parasite Eve is set in a near-future New York City, where a mysterious mitochondrial mutation has begun to transform people into grotesque monsters. Aya Brea, a rookie NYPD officer, is one of the few survivors of an initial outbreak at Carnegie Hall. As she investigates the incident, she discovers that the mutation is spreading rapidly and that she may be the key to stopping it.
The game’s story is a complex and engrossing blend of horror, science fiction, and mystery. It explores themes of identity, destiny, and the nature of good and evil. The game’s setting is both familiar and unsettling, with recognizable New York City landmarks juxtaposed against the horrors of the mitochondrial outbreak.
Gameplay
Parasite Eve combines real-time battles, exploration, puzzle-solving, and character development in a seamless and engaging gameplay experience. Players control Aya Brea from a third-person perspective as she explores the game’s environments, interacts with other characters, and fights off hordes of monsters.
The game’s battle system is unique and innovative. Battles take place in real-time, with Aya able to move around the battlefield and target enemies with a variety of weapons and spells. The game also features a “Parasite Energy” (PE) system, which allows Aya to use special abilities and attacks by absorbing the PE of defeated enemies.
In addition to combat, Parasite Eve also features a variety of exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Aya must use her wits and resources to navigate through the game’s environments, solve puzzles, and uncover the secrets of the mitochondrial outbreak.
Characters
Aya Brea is a complex and well-developed protagonist. She is a strong and capable police officer, but she is also vulnerable and haunted by her past. As the game progresses, Aya must confront her own inner demons and come to terms with her destiny.
The supporting cast of characters in Parasite Eve is also well-written and memorable. Melissa Pearce is a brilliant scientist who is determined to find a cure for the mitochondrial outbreak. Daniel Dollis is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who seems to know more about the outbreak than he lets on.
Graphics and Sound
Parasite Eve’s graphics were cutting-edge for its time. The game’s character models and environments are detailed and realistic, and the game’s use of lighting and shadow creates a truly immersive and atmospheric experience.
The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The music is eerie and unsettling, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The game’s voice acting is also excellent, with the voice actors delivering nuanced and believable performances.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Parasite Eve was critically acclaimed upon its release in 1998. The game received praise for its innovative gameplay, gripping story, and well-developed characters. Parasite Eve was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
The game has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best survival horror RPGs ever made. Parasite Eve has spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Parasite Eve II (1999), The 3rd Birthday (2010), and Parasite Eve: The Lost Files (2018).
Conclusion
Parasite Eve (1998) is a masterpiece of survival horror that combines thrilling battles, eerie exploration, and a gripping story. The game’s unique blend of horror, science fiction, and RPG elements has made it a classic of the genre. Parasite Eve is a must-play for fans of survival horror and RPGs alike.
Review Score
9/10
Art
Cover Art
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