More like a good interactive movie than a traditional first person shooter.
If the developers had combined the two aspects of game play better, it would make for a much more challenging game. Speaking of challenge, most of that disappears thanks to a forgiving death system. Every time you die, you just go to the “Land of the Ancestors” and shoot some ugly bird-like spirits to replenish your health. You then resume from exactly (or at least extremely close) from where you left off. Since the enemies don’t regenerate health or puzzles don’t ‘unsolve’ themselves, you never worry about dieing and never really have intense “saved by the skin of your teeth” moments. Prey is an easy game, making it more like an interactive movie than a challenging video game.
Not only are the graphics amazing, but the artists do a great job of utilizing the technology. Many of the coolest moments in the game are finding breathtaking views and somewhat comical levels. The lighting, the textures, the models and the animations all look fantastic and flow without a hitch. While the game has its share of mediocre enemies there a few bad guys that are impressive to see and watch. The graphics do an excellent job adding to the cinematic feel of the game.
The characters don’t talk constantly, but when they do, both the script and voice acting is superb. There aren’t any cheesy ‘did he really just say that?’ moments and every word sounds convincing. I especially enjoyed Tommy’s many quips that were well placed throughout the game. The in-game music is pretty good. The tune selection at the beginning and the end of the game is fantastic, while the stuff in the middle is merely mediocre. After Midnight Project does the credit music, and after hearing it in Prey, I’m going to find their CD.
Sounds effects are okay, but nothing impressive. Sound is used well to inform you of certain events, like when your gun is almost out of ammo, when a door won’t open and a few other nice touches. Some more satisfying explosions and splats would have been nice, but what was implemented was done well.
All the aesthetic details come together to deliver a pleasing environment and many memorable moments. There are plenty of scenes that are unique and exciting and none are abused so that they become old and repetitive.
Like many movies, one play though Prey is enough. The game play doesn’t warrant another easy trek through, and there aren’t any choices to alter the story. However, that one time through is plenty of fun. The story is great and isn’t dragged out, but that’s probably due to the short campaign. I finished the game in 3 sittings totalling less than 10 hours. If you’re looking for passive entertainment on a slow weekend or have money to burn and are a fan of actions game, give Prey a try. If you must choose your games wisely and make them last, you might want to skip this title.