A common and effective narrative technique in games and films involves placing characters in a scenario where they must uncover the preceding events. This is exemplified in the film Aliens, where the marine detachment arrives at a deserted base and navigates the corridors, attempting to piece together what transpired. Similar approaches are prevalent in Event Horizon and comparable works.
The Anacrusis employs a similar premise, thrusting players directly into the action. Set on a vast spaceship, the game focuses on four survivors endeavoring to traverse from one point to another while confronting hordes of creatures that were once ordinary passengers. A diverse arsenal of weapons is available, with opportunities to discover and upgrade them throughout the game. Each level culminates in a safe-house, providing a respite for players to recuperate and repair their equipment before venturing out again.
The core gameplay mechanics share similarities with Back 4 Blood, although the zombies are replaced by space parasites that control their hosts. A key distinction lies in the absence of bot support in The Anacrusis, necessitating online play with other users. This can be problematic, as finding a full complement of players at any given time can prove challenging. Furthermore, the game suffers from extended loading times, occasionally leading to the impression that the application has stalled. This is somewhat surprising given that the graphical fidelity doesn’t seem to warrant such lengthy delays.
However, once a full team of four players is assembled and the game has loaded, the experience becomes genuinely engaging and fast-paced. The visuals are clean and possess a distinct retro aesthetic, a stylistic choice that complements the game’s overall design. The controls are intuitive and easy to master. The difficulty level presents a satisfying challenge without being overly frustrating; players are consistently confronted with demanding scenarios, but the presence of a four-person team generally allows for successful navigation.
In conclusion, The Anacrusis is a recommendable title due to its engaging and adrenaline-fueled gameplay, which maintains a high level of intensity from beginning to end. The core concept of investigating the events that transpired on the ship remains consistently compelling. Furthermore, the developers’ decision to implement a 1970s-inspired retro aesthetic enhances the overall experience.
Stray Bombay provided a review copy of this game. Provision of material does not influence editorial objectivity.
