Prey (2006)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Prey (2006): A Hidden Gem of Sci-Fi Horror

Released in 2006, Prey is a first-person shooter game developed by Human Head Studios and published by 2K Games. The game tells the story of Tommy, a Cherokee garage mechanic who is abducted along with his people by an alien spaceship. Tommy must fight his way through hordes of alien enemies to save himself, his girlfriend, and eventually his planet.

Prey is a unique and atmospheric game that blends sci-fi horror with Native American themes. The game’s world is both beautiful and terrifying, with lush forests, towering mountains, and ancient ruins. The aliens are truly alien, with grotesque forms and deadly weapons.

Tommy is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and his journey is one of self-discovery and redemption. He must overcome his fears and learn to use his unique abilities to defeat the aliens and save his people.

Gameplay

Prey is a fast-paced and action-packed FPS. Tommy is armed with a variety of weapons, including guns, grenades, and a bow and arrow. He can also use his environment to his advantage, such as by using stealth to take down enemies or by using objects to create traps.

The game features a variety of enemies, each with their own unique abilities. Tommy must learn to adapt his tactics to each enemy type in order to survive.

Setting

Prey is set on a distant planet called Sphere. Sphere is a beautiful and mysterious world, with lush forests, towering mountains, and ancient ruins. The planet is also home to a variety of alien creatures, both friendly and hostile.

The game’s setting is inspired by Native American culture. The aliens are based on creatures from Cherokee mythology, and the game’s world is full of Native American symbols and motifs.

Story

Prey tells the story of Tommy, a Cherokee garage mechanic who is abducted along with his people by an alien spaceship. Tommy is taken to Sphere, where he is forced to fight for his survival.

Tommy quickly learns that the aliens are not friendly. They are a hostile and aggressive species that are determined to destroy humanity. Tommy must fight his way through hordes of aliens to save himself, his girlfriend, and eventually his planet.

Along the way, Tommy meets a variety of characters, both human and alien. He learns about the history of Sphere and the aliens who inhabit it. He also learns about his own heritage and the power that he possesses.

Themes

Prey is a game about identity, survival, and redemption. Tommy is a Cherokee man who is forced to confront his own identity and his place in the world. He must learn to overcome his fears and embrace his own power in order to save his people.

The game also explores the themes of colonialism and genocide. The aliens are a metaphor for the European colonizers who have oppressed Native Americans for centuries. Tommy’s fight against the aliens is a symbolic representation of the struggle for Native American rights and self-determination.

Reception

Prey received critical acclaim upon release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking story. However, the game was also a commercial failure, selling only around 1 million copies worldwide.

Despite its commercial failure, Prey has become a cult classic among gamers. The game’s unique blend of sci-fi horror and Native American themes has resonated with many players. Prey is a hidden gem of a game that deserves to be rediscovered by a new generation of gamers.

Legacy

Prey has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s innovative gameplay and stunning visuals have inspired many other games, including the BioShock series and the Dead Space series. Prey’s unique blend of sci-fi horror and Native American themes has also paved the way for other games that explore similar themes, such as the Dishonored series and the Wolfenstein: The New Order series.

Prey is a truly unique and unforgettable game. It is a game that deserves to be played and experienced by every gamer. If you are a fan of sci-fi horror, Native American culture, or simply great video games, then you need to check out Prey.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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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.

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