If there is one constant in horror video games, it is that you try and get out of the area as quick as you can. Some games do require you to take a more measured approach, but the goal was always to get out alive. That was not true for Illbleed. You had to take your time or you were going to die quickly. Released for the Sega Dreamcast, this change of pace was just one of the many layers to this nightmare.
Eriko Christy did not have the traditional upbringing. The daughter of a horror park designer, she loves all things horror. Her friends tell her about a new park that is opening and a hundred million dollar payout to whomever can reach the end. Eriko declines, and her friends set off without her. A few days later, her friends have still not returned and Eriko sets off to the brand new Illbleed. The park is a little too real and Eriko must find her friends and get all of them out alive.
A player starts with Eriko, but as she rescues her friends, they become playable too. Different characters have different abilities, or rather they have longer stats in a particular area. The dialogue is top notch, a clear homage to the B movies of the horror genre. It also requires multiple play throughs in order to get the true ending. You can lose characters, but be prepared to suffer the consequences. Also, if you see a brain, pick it up. One of your friends will thank you for it.
The park has it’s share of enemies, but there are traps as well. This requires a slow and methodical approach. Characters have four senses to use: sight, sound, smell and a mysterious sixth sense. It is not just damage that can end the game for a player, they can also be scared to death or run out of strengh. A close look at the stats is a must if a player wants to complete the game. The setting is creepy and the graphics are quite good. If something gives you goosebumps, it’s probably in this game somewhere.
Illbleed took a different approach to the horror genre. With a tone of not taking anything too serious, it was a refreshing change of pace. The game did not set sales records, but it still has a loyal following all these years later. If you can find a copy, give it a try. After all, it’s just an amusement park, right?
