Summary

A sequel that surpassed expectations, Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus (1998) combines dark humor, complex puzzles, and a poignant narrative in a dystopian world. Abe’s mission against the Magog Cartel and his quest to save his people showcase the game’s depth, making it a classic in retro gaming.

• Release Year: 1998
• Genres: Adventure, Platform, Puzzle
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
• Publishers: GT Interactive Software, Oddworld Inhabitants

Introduction

Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus (1998) is a landmark title in the Oddworld series, expanding on the universe with more depth, puzzles, and dark humor. As a sequel to Abe’s Oddysee, it continues Abe’s quest against the oppressive Magog Cartel with new abilities and challenges.

Synopsis

“Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus” is a platform video game developed by Oddworld Inhabitants and published by GT Interactive. Released in November 1998, it is a sequel to “Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee”, but is considered a spin-off title in the Oddworld series.

The game continues the story of Abe, a Mudokon who had just saved his pals from RuptureFarms. The game opens with a poem that sets the stage for Abe’s new adventure3: “His scarred hand branded on moon’s odd face, this hero may free the Mudokon race. With skin of blue and spirit guides too, only he can save our bones from brew. But shall he fall to Glukkon yoke, Mudokon nation… BE DOOMED TO CROAK.”

The plot unfolds as Abe is visited by three Mudokon spirits, known as the Three Weirdos, in a vision. They reveal that the Glukkons have captured more Mudokons and are exploiting them in their mines and factories to produce SoulStorm Brew. This brew is made from Mudokon bones and tears1, a horrifying revelation that spurs Abe into action.

Abe embarks on a quest to halt the production of SoulStorm Brew and liberate his fellow Mudokons. The game expands on the original gameplay of “Abe’s Oddysee” by introducing new features such as calling multiple Mudokons at once, being able to save at any point in the game, and possessing a wider selection of creatures.

The game world is filled with puzzles that require the use of Abe’s unique abilities. These abilities include “GameSpeak”, possession, controlling mine cars, activation or deactivation of mines or levers, and the use of rocks, grenades, or bones for different purposes. The game features no user interface or heads-up display, with information conveyed through instructive screens or scrolling messages in the background.

As Abe travels across the desert in search of Necrum, an ancient Mudokon burial ground, he faces numerous challenges. Some of the Mudokons he leads become tired and frustrated, blaming Abe for their predicament. Despite these hardships, Abe remains determined to save his people and stop the production of SoulStorm Brew.

The climax of the game comes when Abe confronts the Glukkons and their nefarious operations. Using his abilities and the help of the Mudokons he has liberated, Abe manages to halt the production of SoulStorm Brew and free his people.

“Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus” was well-received upon its release, with praise for its unique communication scheme, trial-and-error system, and endearing characters. The game’s ability to allow the player to quick save anywhere was particularly appreciated, a feature that was not present in “Abe’s Oddysee”.

Characters

Abe (the protagonist), The Three Weirdos (Mudokon spiritual guides), Magog Cartel (antagonists), Mudokon slaves (Abe’s people)

Gameplay

Gameplay involves puzzle-solving, platforming, and utilizing Abe’s special abilities like healing, invisibility, and controlling other characters through GameSpeak. The game emphasizes stealth, strategy, and resource management across its diverse and perilous environments.

Conclusion

Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus remains a standout title in the adventure-platforming genre, remembered for its captivating story, innovative gameplay, and darkly comedic take on corporate greed and environmental destruction. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Oddworld franchise.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern