For my write-up I will be sharing some general thoughts, then focusing on the “Phobos lab” level
I chose the difficulty “Hurt me plenty.” Since this mainly effects the attitude of the monsters and ammo, I was happy picking this setting. Monsters were frightening and engaging.
Generally, the game has a very good flow. The player moves swiftly and the gets used to killing enemies effortlessly.
At times the game could be frustrating, like when I had killed all the monsters but couldn’t find a necessary key (see GIF).
Overall the game has a great design. The colors all work well together, and the blue chosen is especially striking. Horror elements like flashing lights are also well done. The sound design has become a classic, and I now retroactive understand many online references that have come from its iconic sound and music.
PHOBOS LAB:
The player enters phobos lab to a shift in music. It signifies the increase in difficulty. The player is introduced to a new game element, the invisible monster. These monsters come up frequently and are sprinkled in with the other monsters throughout the level. The level ends with a completely dark room covered with enemies – a great instance of the games’ fantastic horror elements.