Joystiq [Xbox]

Best New Original IP - Dead Space

Dead Space was always in my peripheral vision. When it was named Joystiq's 2008 E3 Game of Show I was completely taken aback. How could some horror game be considered remotely interesting or original?

Fast-forward to PAX 2008. Showing up for a scheduled play-test and skipping to the front of the line as hordes of angry fanboys and girls watched on, I finally got to see what all the hype was for myself. Immediately I was hooked. Strangely reminding me of BioShock, the world of Dead Space has a very specific design to it. Hallways are dusty, cold and dim. The completely HUDless approach to onscreen menus is well implemented and made you feel like it had an actual purpose. It all feels absolutely right and completely out of place all at once, the design can be jarring.

Another major reason Dead Space stands out for me is the game's sound design. Sound is something players usually do not talk about but the mix and method in which sound is presented to players is the best I've ever heard ... in any game. Areas, enemies and actions have very specific, sometimes haunting, sound to them and it comes out beautifully.

Dead Space fought hard against my game of the year but ended up my 2nd overall pick. However, if ever there was a world that deserved to be revisited it is the world of Dead Space. That is why it is my pick for Best Original IP of 2008.

28/12/08