The first installment in the Penumbra series introduces you to the grim world Phillip must face...
General: Penumbra:Overture is an action-adventure game, although the action is downplayed in favour of logical puzzles. The puzzles most of the time consist of a closed door, and the only way to progress is utilize what you have at your disposal, namely almost everything in the immediate area. The game doesn't have you pixel-hunting. Instead, you can use a stone to break the ice around a hatch and then turn the wheel, thus opening it. This is only an example of the puzzles you will face. Not always obvious, but certainly not ridiculously implausible.
Story: For fear of ruining the story, i will reveal nothing about it....Suffice to say that it is highly immersive and sets the scene perfectly for the things about to come.
Graphics:Admittedly, the graphics are bit dated and certainly not up to par with the recent next-gen games. However, they do an amazing work at depicting the dark and twised world you must face.
Sound: Ah, the sound. This is the main aspect of this game that will keep you at the edge of you seat. Crawling noises, sudden bangs and subtle whispers will have you constantly looking behind your back....
Gameplay:The gamepay is just right. Most of the time you'll have no problems accomplishing your tasks. However, the battle mechanics don't always work as good, which is also one of the reasons you will avoid battle more often than not, instead relying on your good two feet to keep you out of trouble...
All in all, Penumbra:Overture is a must-play, if you've been longing to test your problem-solving skills and don't mind the occasional good scare.