A legitimately mature gaming experience with a thought provoking narrative backed by smart gameplay.
The story of Catherine is centred on a 32 year old America named Vincent who is currently dating a smart and successful woman named Katherine. During one of their dates it becomes apparent that she wishes to tie the knot. Unfortunately for her Vincent isn't receptive to marriage and he tries to dodge the idea by getting drunk later that evening. The next morning he awakens to find a beautiful young blonde named Catherine sleeping next to him. It's this act of unfaithfulness that places a curse on Vincent that will kill him unless he can reach the top of every tower in his dreams over the course of eight days.
But the uniqueness of this horror filled plot is nothing more than a canvas for the game's impressive social commentary. Throughout the game you will be presented with various choices and questions that evaluate your lifestyle choices. What path you choose will affect Vincent's attitude in the game and will present an interesting reflection of your ideal relationship. To top it all off you will encounter many characters who preach to you their personal take on commitment. In short I have never seen a game present a thought provoking narrative like Catherine and I haven't even mentioned the amazing voice work or the slick anime style presentation.
Of course there is actual game play, which comes in the form of the towers that you face during Vincent's nightmares. Each tower is made up of blocks that must be rearranged to form a climbable path to the top. The type of blocks that you encounter will vary and there's helpful power-ups scattered all over the place. Also be on the lookout for hostile enemies, especially the scary oversized bosses that will certainly cause players a lot of grief.
Aside from the odd camera and control issues I found the puzzles to be difficult and complex enough to have me coming back for more. Speaking of more, your diligence in the game is rewarded with additional puzzles that can be accessed in a standalone mode via the main menu. Some of these puzzles can be completed with or against another friend. However there is no online option available. If you are still hungry for more, there is a fictional arcade cabinet in the game's bar called "Repunzel" that offers more block puzzles.
Catherine is an amazing experience and not giving praise since I am an Atlus fan. But because it really does present an interesting yet mature narrative about commitment backed by smart game play. Which is why I urge everyone to give this game a spin when it reaches Australian stores later this year.
RATING - 9/10
+ Thought provoking narrative.
+ Challenging and unique action puzzle segments.
+ Amazing voice work and musical score.
+ Stylish design and presentation.
- Absence of online option for multiplayer modes.
- Inconsistency with voice volume.
- No rear camera view.