Summary
- Release Year: 1990
- Platforms: Atari ST/STE
Simulcra (1990): A Text Adventure Masterpiece
Simulcra is a 1990 text adventure game developed and published by Infocom. It is a horror game that puts the player in the role of a private investigator who is called to investigate the disappearance of a woman who was obsessed with a virtual reality game.
The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player interacts with the game world by typing commands. The game’s parser is very sophisticated, and it allows the player to interact with the game world in a very natural way.
The game’s story is complex and well-written, and it keeps the player guessing until the very end. The game’s atmosphere is also very well-crafted, and it creates a sense of unease and dread that is palpable throughout the game.
Simulcra was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the best text adventure games ever made. It was praised for its innovative use of graphics, its complex and well-written story, and its atmospheric gameplay.
Gameplay
The player takes on the role of a private investigator who is called to investigate the disappearance of a woman named Lena. Lena was obsessed with a virtual reality game called “Simulcra”, and she disappeared after spending several days playing the game.
The player must investigate Lena’s apartment and computer in order to find clues about her disappearance. The player can also interview Lena’s friends and family, and they can explore the virtual world of Simulcra itself.
As the player investigates, they will uncover a dark secret that will change their life forever. The game’s story is complex and well-written, and it keeps the player guessing until the very end.
Graphics
Simulcra was one of the first text adventure games to use graphics. The graphics are simple, but they are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere and immersion. The game’s use of color is also very effective, and it helps to create a sense of unease and dread.
Sound
The game’s sound effects are also very effective. The game uses a variety of sounds, including creaking doors, footsteps, and dripping water. These sounds help to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion, and they also help to build tension.
Story
The game’s story is complex and well-written. The story is told through a series of text messages, emails, and other documents. The player must piece together the clues in order to uncover the truth about Lena’s disappearance.
The game’s story is full of twists and turns, and it keeps the player guessing until the very end. The game’s ending is also very satisfying, and it provides closure to the player.
Characters
The game’s characters are well-developed and believable. The player will interact with a variety of characters, including Lena’s friends, family, and colleagues. Each character has their own unique personality and motivations, and they all play a role in the game’s story.
Atmosphere
The game’s atmosphere is very well-crafted. The game’s use of graphics, sound, and story all work together to create a sense of unease and dread. The player will feel like they are constantly being watched, and they will never be sure what is going to happen next.
Overall
Simulcra is a masterpiece of text adventure gaming. The game’s complex and well-written story, its atmospheric gameplay, and its well-developed characters make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
10/10
Review Score
8/10
