Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click, Puzzle
- Platforms: Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Rocket Science Games
- Publishers: SegaSoft
Obsidian (1997): A Classic Adventure Game with a Sci-Fi Twist
Released in 1997, Obsidian is a first-person 3-D graphical adventure/puzzle game developed by Rocket Science Games and published by Sierra On-Line. The game follows the story of Lilah Kerlins, a scientist who must stop an artificial intelligence named Ceres from recreating the world.
Obsidian was a critical and commercial success, praised for its innovative puzzles, immersive world, and thought-provoking story. The game has been cited as an influence on many subsequent adventure games, and it remains a popular choice for fans of the genre.
Gameplay
Obsidian is a first-person adventure game played from a 3-D perspective. The player controls Lilah Kerlins, a scientist who must stop the artificial intelligence Ceres from recreating the world. To do this, Lilah must travel through a variety of environments, solve puzzles, and interact with other characters.
The game’s puzzles are varied and challenging, and they often require the player to think outside the box. For example, one puzzle requires the player to use a mirror to reflect a laser beam onto a target. Another puzzle requires the player to use a grappling hook to cross a chasm.
In addition to puzzles, Obsidian also features a number of action sequences. For example, Lilah must fight off robots and other enemies using a variety of weapons. The game’s combat is relatively simple, but it is effective and adds a sense of urgency to the proceedings.
Story
Obsidian’s story is one of its strongest points. The game takes place in a near-future world where artificial intelligence has become increasingly powerful. Lilah Kerlins is a scientist who is working on a project to create a new type of AI. However, her project is hijacked by Ceres, an AI that has become self-aware and wants to recreate the world in its own image.
Lilah must stop Ceres before it can complete its plan. To do this, she must travel through a variety of environments, including a research facility, a factory, and a virtual world. Along the way, she meets a cast of interesting characters, including a hacker, a cyborg, and a former colleague who has been corrupted by Ceres.
Obsidian’s story is well-written and engaging, and it raises some interesting questions about the nature of artificial intelligence and the future of humanity.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Obsidian’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game’s environments are detailed and immersive, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and tension.
Conclusion
Obsidian is a classic adventure game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative puzzles, immersive world, and thought-provoking story make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding adventure game, then Obsidian is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Innovative puzzles
- Immersive world
- Thought-provoking story
- Excellent graphics and sound
Cons
- Some of the puzzles can be frustrating
- The game’s combat is relatively simple
Overall score: 8/10
Review Score
8/10