Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Role-playing game (RPG), Shooter
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Ice-Pick Lodge
- Publishers: Buka Entertainment, Meridian4
Pathologic (2005): A Haunting and Unforgettable Psychological Horror Masterpiece
Released in 2005, Pathologic is a psychological horror video game developed by the Russian studio Ice-Pick Lodge. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience that has garnered a cult following among fans of the genre.
The game is set in a remote, plague-ridden town called Gorkhon. The player takes on the role of one of three characters: the Haruspex, the Bachelor, or the Changeling. Each character has their own unique abilities and backstory, and the player’s choices throughout the game will affect the story’s outcome.
Pathologic is a non-linear game with a branching narrative. The player is free to explore the town of Gorkhon at their own pace, and the choices they make will determine which characters they meet, which quests they undertake, and how the story unfolds.
The game’s world is dark and disturbing, with a heavy emphasis on atmosphere and mood. The player is constantly confronted with the horrors of the plague, and the game’s unique art style and sound design create a truly immersive and unsettling experience.
The characters in Pathologic are complex and well-developed. Each character has their own motivations and flaws, and the player is forced to make difficult choices about who to trust and who to betray.
The gameplay in Pathologic is challenging and unforgiving. The player must carefully manage their resources, and the game’s unique infection mechanic can quickly lead to death if the player is not careful.
Pathologic is not for the faint of heart. It is a dark, disturbing, and challenging game that will stay with you long after you finish playing. However, if you are a fan of psychological horror, then Pathologic is a must-play.
The Plague
The plague is a central theme in Pathologic. It is a deadly disease that is slowly ravaging the town of Gorkhon. The player must constantly be on the lookout for signs of infection, and they must take steps to protect themselves and their companions.
The plague is not just a physical threat, however. It is also a metaphor for the darkness and corruption that exists within the human heart. The player must confront their own inner demons in order to survive the plague and save the town of Gorkhon.
The Characters
The player takes on the role of one of three characters in Pathologic: the Haruspex, the Bachelor, or the Changeling. Each character has their own unique abilities and backstory, and the player’s choices throughout the game will affect the story’s outcome.
- The Haruspex is a doctor who is immune to the plague. He is a skilled surgeon, and he can use his knowledge of medicine to help the sick and wounded.
- The Bachelor is a wealthy landowner who is trying to find a cure for the plague. He is a brilliant scientist, but he is also arrogant and ruthless.
- The Changeling is a mysterious woman who is said to be able to communicate with the dead. She is a powerful ally, but she is also dangerous and unpredictable.
The Setting
Pathologic is set in the remote, plague-ridden town of Gorkhon. The town is a dark and dangerous place, and the player must constantly be on the lookout for threats.
The town is divided into several districts, each with its own unique atmosphere and inhabitants. The player must explore these districts in order to complete quests and progress the story.
The Gameplay
Pathologic is a non-linear game with a branching narrative. The player is free to explore the town of Gorkhon at their own pace, and the choices they make will determine which characters they meet, which quests they undertake, and how the story unfolds.
The game’s gameplay is challenging and unforgiving. The player must carefully manage their resources, and the game’s unique infection mechanic can quickly lead to death if the player is not careful.
The Themes
Pathologic is a game about survival, both physical and emotional. The player must confront their own inner demons in order to survive the plague and save the town of Gorkhon.
The game also explores the themes of corruption, redemption, and sacrifice. The player must make difficult choices throughout the game, and these choices will have a lasting impact on the story’s outcome.
The Legacy
Pathologic is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing. If you are a fan of psychological horror, then Pathologic is a must-play.
The game has been praised for its atmosphere, characters, and gameplay. It has also been cited as an influence on other psychological horror games, such as SOMA and Layers of Fear.
In 2015, Ice-Pick Lodge released a remake of Pathologic for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The remake features updated graphics and gameplay, but it retains the same dark and disturbing atmosphere of the original game.
Pathologic is a game that will continue to be enjoyed and discussed for years to come. It is a true masterpiece of the psychological horror genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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