amazon Oddworld Abe’s Oddysee reviews
Although released two decades ago, the reputation of the game continues to be widely known today. Maybe you will be “disappoint” right from the old graphics of the game, but if you accept that, the experience that Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee brings something, even many modern day puzzle games can not do.
The graphics in Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is pretty good compared to the time of release
In Oddworld, the player plays a slave named Abe, a Mudokon race that is highly spiritual. Of course, this name has nothing to do with Japan, as it has been developed by an American gaming company since long ago. Our main characters work in the Rupture Farms meat processing line. After discovering a terrible truth here, Abe decides to flee and save the other slaves who are working here. The player’s task is simple, but it’s not as easy as you think.
The Mudokon race is not a beautiful creature, and so is Abe. Our protagonist looks weak with orange eyes and pale blue skin and bunks like the old Japanese samurai but in shorts. From a distance, the characters of the Mudokon are no different than the blue gorillas mutated. But if you ignore the graphics limitations of the late 1990s, the image in Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is quite detailed and impressive, though it may be just a 2D drawing technique. Imitation 3D to create depth for the game. What makes me sad is that the CG movie of the game is interlace, a technique that was used many times to speed up the frame without increasing the amount of space, watching it rather uncomfortable seeing the horizontal stripes split. Move around the moving parts.
Puzzles often require players to brainstorm
Oddworld’s play: Abe’s Oddysee is quite special. Besides using a lot of elements in the game genres and puzzle games, the game is also called Gamespeak. This is a feature that allows the character of the player to talk and asks the other Mudokon to perform some simple action, the latter goal being to rescue them. It’s more like a mini-game, but the fact that rescuing these characters from Rupture Farms through “flying birds” is not as easy as going through a scene, if not harder. Not to mention, the game hidden secret between the backgrounds to the utopian level, will certainly make the “hardcore players” must sweat to save enough of all the Mudokon here.
where can you get a Oddworld Abe’s Oddysee online
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee (Jewel Case) – PC: Buy it now
Oddworld Abe’s Oddysee: Buy it now
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee [Download]: Buy it now
Narrative and World-Building
Story Overview
The narrative of Abe’s Oddysee is set in the fictional world of Oddworld, a dystopian universe where the greedy and corrupt corporation, RuptureFarms, exploits the natural resources and enslaves its inhabitants. The protagonist, Abe, is a Mudokon slave working at RuptureFarms, a meat-packing plant where various creatures are processed into food products. The story begins with Abe discovering that he and his fellow Mudokons are next on the chopping block—literally. The game follows Abe’s journey to escape the factory and liberate his people.
Themes
The game tackles themes of industrial exploitation, environmental destruction, and social injustice. The oppressive regime of RuptureFarms and the exploitation of the Mudokons are central to the narrative. Through its story, Abe’s Oddysee raises awareness about the consequences of unchecked industrialization and the importance of empathy and solidarity. These themes are conveyed through both the game’s plot and its setting, which highlight the contrast between the natural world and the industrial machinery of RuptureFarms.
World-Building
Oddworld is a richly detailed world, meticulously crafted to reflect its dystopian nature. The game’s environments are diverse, ranging from the grim, mechanical interiors of RuptureFarms to the lush, yet perilous wilderness of the surrounding areas. The world-building extends to the lore and backstory, which are revealed through in-game dialogue, environmental storytelling, and cutscenes. The depth of the world-building enhances the player’s immersion and investment in the story.
Gameplay Mechanics
Platforming and Puzzle-Solving
At its core, Abe’s Oddysee is a platformer that combines traditional jumping and running mechanics with innovative puzzle-solving elements. The game features a side-scrolling perspective, with Abe navigating through various levels filled with obstacles, traps, and enemies. The platforming challenges are complemented by environmental puzzles that require players to use their wits and problem-solving skills.
One of the standout mechanics is the ability to possess enemies, which allows Abe to control their actions and use them to solve puzzles or eliminate threats. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must carefully plan their actions and use their abilities to overcome obstacles.
Mudokon Rescue System
Abe’s primary objective is to rescue as many Mudokons as possible from RuptureFarms. The game features a unique rescue system where players must guide Abe to various rescue points and use the “Speak” command to communicate with the Mudokons. This system not only adds a layer of complexity to the gameplay but also reinforces the game’s themes of solidarity and liberation.
Players must also be mindful of the game’s morality system. Saving Mudokons improves the player’s score and provides a better ending, while failing to rescue them or causing their deaths results in a lower score and a less favorable outcome. This system adds replayability to the game, as players are encouraged to strive for a higher score and uncover different endings.
Stealth and Strategy
Stealth plays a crucial role in Abe’s Oddysee. The game’s levels are filled with patrolling guards, surveillance cameras, and other hazards that require careful planning and timing. Players must use Abe’s ability to hide in shadows, distract enemies, and navigate through the levels without being detected. This emphasis on stealth adds a strategic element to the gameplay, as players must plan their moves and use their environment to their advantage.
Art and Design
Visual Style
The visual style of Abe’s Oddysee is one of its most distinctive features. The game employs a hand-drawn art style that gives it a unique and memorable aesthetic. The backgrounds are detailed and atmospheric, reflecting the grim and industrial nature of RuptureFarms as well as the natural beauty of the wilderness areas.
The character design is equally notable, with Abe and the other Mudokons featuring a distinctive, expressive look. The animations are fluid and expressive, contributing to the game’s charm and enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative. The visual design effectively captures the contrast between the industrial and natural elements of the world, reinforcing the game’s themes.
Level Design
The level design in Abe’s Oddysee is intricate and well-crafted, with each level presenting a unique set of challenges and obstacles. The game’s levels are designed to encourage exploration and experimentation, with hidden areas, secret paths, and environmental puzzles. The diversity of the levels, from the claustrophobic confines of RuptureFarms to the open expanses of the wilderness, keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging.
Sound and Music
Sound Design
The sound design in Abe’s Oddysee plays a crucial role in creating the game’s atmosphere. The game features a variety of sound effects that enhance the immersive experience, from the clanking of machinery in RuptureFarms to the ambient sounds of the natural environments. The sound effects are well-crafted and contribute to the overall tension and mood of the game.
Music
The musical score of Abe’s Oddysee, composed by Ellen Meijers, is integral to the game’s atmosphere and emotional impact. The music features a blend of haunting melodies, tribal rhythms, and ambient sounds that complement the game’s setting and narrative. The score adapts to the different environments and situations, enhancing the emotional resonance of key moments and adding depth to the gameplay experience.
Critical Reception
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Reviewers praised the game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, unique art style, and engaging narrative. The game’s combination of platforming, puzzle-solving, and stealth elements was highlighted as a standout feature, and the depth of the world-building was noted as a major strength.
Legacy and Impact
The impact of Abe’s Oddysee extends beyond its initial release. The game has influenced subsequent titles in the platformer genre and has been recognized for its contribution to video game storytelling and design. The success of the game led to sequels and spin-offs, further exploring the world of Oddworld and expanding on its themes and gameplay mechanics.
The game’s unique approach to platforming and its emphasis on narrative and world-building have inspired other developers and have contributed to the ongoing popularity of the Oddworld series. The lasting appeal of Abe’s Oddysee is a testament to its innovative design and its ability to resonate with players across different generations.
Conclusion
Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee is a landmark title in the platformer genre, combining innovative gameplay mechanics, a compelling narrative, and a unique art style. The game’s emphasis on stealth, puzzle-solving, and moral choices adds depth to the platforming experience, while its rich world-building and engaging characters contribute to its lasting impact.
The game’s critical acclaim and enduring legacy highlight its significance in the gaming industry. With its memorable design, thought-provoking themes, and entertaining gameplay, Abe’s Oddysee remains a classic that continues to captivate and inspire players. Whether revisiting the game or experiencing it for the first time, players are sure to appreciate the creativity and craftsmanship that define this iconic title.