Summary
- Release Year: 1995
- Genres: Adventure, Point-and-click
- Platforms: 3DO Interactive Multiplayer
- Developers: Studio 3DO
- Publishers: The 3DO Company
Snow Job (1995): A Gritty and Immersive Point-and-Click Adventure
Released in 1995, Snow Job is a groundbreaking point-and-click adventure game that immerses players in the gritty and unforgiving criminal underworld of New York City. Developed by American studio Animation Magic and published by Virgin Interactive Entertainment, Snow Job is known for its innovative use of full-motion video (FMV), photorealistic graphics, and mature storyline.
Gameplay
Snow Job is played from a first-person perspective, with players controlling Jock LaMonte, a retired NYPD detective. The game world is rendered in 360-degree photorealistic environments, which players can explore by clicking on different hotspots. Gameplay consists of three main screens:
- Exploration screen: This screen allows players to explore the environment from a fixed position. They can click on hotspots to interact with objects, pick up items, and talk to characters.
- Inventory screen: This screen displays the items that Jock is carrying. Players can examine items, combine them, and use them to solve puzzles.
- Map screen: This screen shows a map of the game world. Players can click on different locations to travel to them.
Snow Job features a variety of puzzles, ranging from simple inventory puzzles to more complex logic puzzles. Players must also engage in occasional mini-games, such as fistfights and car chases.
Story
Snow Job tells the story of Jock LaMonte, a retired NYPD detective who is drawn back into the criminal underworld when his ex-girlfriend, Lara Calabreze, becomes the target of a notorious mob boss known only as the Snow Man. Jock must use his wits, guts, and charm to save Lara and put away the evil of New York City.
The game’s story is told through a combination of FMV cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The FMV cutscenes are particularly impressive for their time, featuring high-quality acting and production values.
Characters
Snow Job features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique motivations and secrets.
- Jock LaMonte: The protagonist of the game, Jock is a retired NYPD detective who is drawn back into the criminal underworld to save his ex-girlfriend. He is a tough and resourceful man, but he is also haunted by his past.
- Lara Calabreze: Jock’s ex-girlfriend and the assistant DA of New York City. Lara is a strong and intelligent woman, but she is also in over her head when she becomes the target of the Snow Man.
- The Snow Man: The main antagonist of the game, the Snow Man is a ruthless and powerful mob boss. He is determined to kill Lara and anyone who gets in his way.
- Vinnie “The Chin” Gigante: A high-ranking member of the Snow Man’s organization, Vinnie is a sadistic and unpredictable killer.
- Father Joseph: A priest who helps Jock on his quest. Father Joseph is a wise and compassionate man, but he is also aware of the darkness that lurks in the city.
Themes
Snow Job explores a number of mature themes, including crime, corruption, and redemption. The game shows the dark side of New York City, but it also offers a glimmer of hope in the form of its protagonist, Jock LaMonte.
Jock is a flawed character, but he is also a good man who is willing to fight for what is right. His journey is one of redemption, as he tries to make amends for his past mistakes and save the woman he loves.
Legacy
Snow Job was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative use of FMV, photorealistic graphics, and mature storyline. The game has since been hailed as a classic of the point-and-click adventure genre.
Snow Job has been cited as an influence on a number of later games, including the Grand Theft Auto series and the Max Payne series. The game’s dark and gritty atmosphere and its focus on crime and violence have also been praised by critics.
Conclusion
Snow Job is a groundbreaking and immersive point-and-click adventure game that takes players on a gritty journey through the criminal underworld of New York City. Its innovative use of FMV, photorealistic graphics, and mature storyline make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
