My Prisoner 84 (iPhone) Review:
Prisoner 84 is a psychological thriller and survival horror game available exclusively on the iPhone.
The game takes place in a maximum security offshore prison where something has gone wrong. You play as a prisoner with psychological trauma that is trying to escape and make sense of the situation he finds himself in. Along the way you’ll encounter lots of zombies, spiders, and other weird enemies in an environment that is full of terrifying surprises.
Although the concept is not unique to this game – this is one of the more creepy experiences you are likely to find on the iPhone. Unlike Zombie Infection or Resident Evil 4 Platinum this game is more of a survival horror game than an action shooter. While there still is plenty of action – it is not the focus of the game.
Where Prisoner 84 shines the most is with its stunning retro-stylized graphics that are very detailed without using tons of polygons. The level design in particular feels realistic with well designed textures and effects that recall games like Half Life, System Shock 2 or Deus Ex. While the NPC animation feels stiff – the characters are well designed and don’t feel out of place in the game world.
Combat takes place in real time and it is clumsy by design without any sense of aim to help the player. This keeps the enemies tough despite the lack of smart AI. Which is good as the AI is very easy to fool and at times you can be standing directly in front of it and it won’t attack until you get close.
There are many item based puzzles that are reminiscent of early Resident Evil games and the developers put the touch screen to good use with mini games such as sliding access cards or turning keys before accessing computers or pathways. There is a good amount of gameplay available and it takes a few long play sessions before the ending.
Prisoner 84 despite some design issues is a well-made effort that is fun to play. Fans of early Resident Evil games will feel right at home with this game.
7.5/10