Dead Space 3: Awakened (2013)

by Christopher May 16, 2021

written by Christopher May 16, 2021 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2013
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
Developers: Visceral Games
Publishers: Electronic Arts

Dead Space 3: Awakened Review

A Thrilling and Terrifying Conclusion to the Dead Space Trilogy

Dead Space 3: Awakened is the standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed survival horror game Dead Space 3. Developed by Visceral Games and published by Electronic Arts, Awakened was released in 2013 and serves as the epic conclusion to the Dead Space trilogy.

Story

Awakened picks up where Dead Space 3 left off. Isaac Clarke and John Carver, stranded on the icy planet of Tau Volantis, must fight their way back to the derelict ship Terra Nova. However, they soon realize that the ship has been overrun by Unitologists, a fanatical cult dedicated to transforming it into a temple of flesh and blood.

As Isaac and Carver explore the Terra Nova, they are haunted by visions and hallucinations, making it difficult to distinguish between reality and madness. They must also contend with hordes of Necromorphs, the grotesque alien monsters that have plagued them throughout their journey.

Gameplay

Awakened features the same core gameplay mechanics as Dead Space 3, with a focus on strategic dismemberment and environmental puzzles. Players must use a variety of weapons and tools to sever the limbs of Necromorphs, while also solving puzzles to progress through the game.

One of the new features in Awakened is the Unitologist enemies. These cultists are armed with a variety of weapons, including flamethrowers and explosive devices. They are also more aggressive than the Necromorphs, making them a formidable challenge.

Another new feature is the “Awakened” difficulty mode. This mode increases the difficulty of the game by making Necromorphs more resilient and aggressive. It also reduces the amount of ammunition and health available, making it a true test of survival skills.

Atmosphere and Visuals

Awakened is a masterclass in survival horror atmosphere. The game’s derelict spaceship setting is claustrophobic and oppressive, with flickering lights and eerie sounds creating a constant sense of dread. The Necromorphs are grotesque and terrifying, and the Unitologists are equally unsettling with their fanatical beliefs.

Visually, Awakened is stunning. The game’s graphics are some of the best in the series, with detailed textures and realistic lighting. The character models are also top-notch, and the animations are fluid and believable.

Conclusion

Dead Space 3: Awakened is a thrilling and terrifying conclusion to the Dead Space trilogy. It features intense action, challenging puzzles, and a gripping story that will keep players on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Whether you’re a fan of the series or a newcomer to survival horror, Awakened is an essential experience.

Score: 8.5/10

Pros:

Intense and atmospheric survival horror gameplay
New enemy types and a challenging difficulty mode
Stunning graphics and sound design
Gripping story that concludes the Dead Space trilogy

Cons:

Some of the puzzles can be frustrating
The game can be quite linear at times

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.