Summary
- Release Year: 2015
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Point-and-click
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Turmoil Games
Alpha Polaris (2015): A Deep Dive into Cosmic Horror and Inuit Folklore
Introduction
Alpha Polaris is a 2015 adventure game developed by RocketWerkz and published by Versus Evil. It is a slow-burning character-driven horror game with environmental themes, drawing inspiration from such sources as Inuit legends and Cthulhu mythos. The game follows the story of a young woman named Victoria who travels to the remote Arctic island of Alpha Polaris in search of her missing father.
Gameplay
Alpha Polaris is a point-and-click adventure game played from a third-person perspective. The player controls Victoria as she explores the island, interacts with objects and characters, and solves puzzles. The game features a variety of puzzles, ranging from simple inventory puzzles to more complex environmental puzzles.
The game’s world is relatively small, but it is densely packed with detail and atmosphere. The player is free to explore the island at their own pace, and there is no set path to follow. However, the game’s story is linear, and the player will eventually need to progress through certain events in order to complete the game.
Setting
Alpha Polaris is set on the remote Arctic island of the same name. The island is a harsh and unforgiving place, with towering mountains, icy wastes, and treacherous seas. The island is also home to a number of strange and mysterious creatures, including polar bears, walruses, and seals.
The game’s setting is inspired by Inuit legends and Cthulhu mythos. The Inuit are an indigenous people who have lived in the Arctic for thousands of years. Their legends are full of stories of strange creatures and malevolent spirits. Cthulhu mythos is a fictional universe created by horror writer H.P. Lovecraft. It is a world of cosmic horror, where ancient and powerful beings lurk in the shadows.
Story
Alpha Polaris follows the story of Victoria, a young woman who travels to the remote Arctic island of Alpha Polaris in search of her missing father. Victoria’s father is a scientist who has been studying the island’s strange and mysterious creatures. Victoria soon discovers that her father has become entangled in a dangerous conspiracy, and she must race against time to save him.
The game’s story is well-written and engaging. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is full of twists and turns. The game’s atmosphere is also top-notch, and the player will feel a constant sense of dread and isolation throughout the game.
Themes
Alpha Polaris explores a number of themes, including the dangers of scientific hubris, the importance of family, and the power of nature. The game’s environmental themes are particularly strong, and the player will see the effects of climate change firsthand.
Critical Reception
Alpha Polaris received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its atmosphere, story, and characters. However, some critics found the game to be too slow-paced and repetitive.
Overall, Alpha Polaris is a well-crafted and engaging adventure game that is sure to appeal to fans of horror, mystery, and exploration.
Conclusion
Alpha Polaris is a unique and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing it. The game’s atmosphere, story, and characters are all top-notch, and the game’s environmental themes are particularly strong. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge you, engage you, and scare you, then Alpha Polaris is definitely worth checking out.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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