Aliens: Dark Descent Review – A Desperate Attempt to Fit in with the Cool Kids

Review: Aliens: Dark Descent – A Game for Cool Aliens Fans

An Authentic and Atmospheric Campaign

Aliens: Dark Descent is a video game that combines turn-based tactics and survival horror to create an authentically atmospheric campaign. While it may seem like just another strategy game for nerds, it is actually a game made for cool Aliens fans. The game can be played with a controller, so it is accessible to a wider audience.

A Definitive Aliens Game

In many ways, Aliens: Dark Descent is the definitive James Cameron’s Aliens game. It successfully captures the white-knuckle vibe of the movie, with its intense gameplay, setting up perimeters, and using tools like the motion tracker to fend off the alien threat. For fans of the franchise, this game does justice to the license.

A Lack of Trust in Players’ Abilities

However, the game falls short in its approach to strategy. It treats players with a seemingly low opinion of their ability to handle complexity. Rather than allowing players to control each member of their squad individually, the game opts for a streamlined approach where all squad members move as a single unit. This lack of micromanagement removes depth and strategic decision-making from the gameplay, leaving the player feeling restricted and limited in their choices.

Mission Structure that Feels Linear

The design choice to focus on set pieces and a pre-scripted intensity curve in each mission also hampers the game’s potential. While some procedural elements add variety, the lack of optional excursions and a linear progression path make the game feel more like an action-adventure rather than a traditional turn-based campaign with strategic elements.

Impressive Elements within the Restricted Design

Despite its design flaws, Aliens: Dark Descent still offers impressive gameplay elements that make it worthwhile for fans who can overlook the limitations.

Persistent Progress and Xenomorph Encounters

One notable feature is the persistent progress within each mission. Players are unlikely to finish a mission on their first attempt, and the game encourages multiple deployments to complete objectives. Xenomorph encounters come in different types, from occasional wandering drones to overwhelming onslaughts. The longer players stay in a mission, the more frequent and deadly the alien attacks become. This creates a sense of tension and urgency that fans of the franchise will appreciate.

A Well-Produced Aliens Experience

Aliens: Dark Descent excels in creating an authentic Aliens experience. The atmosphere, visuals, and sound design contribute to the game’s immersive nature. The limited availability of healing items and ammunition adds to the survival horror aspect of the game. Tindalos Interactive has successfully captured the essence of the Aliens franchise, which is a testament to their expertise in creating atmospheric games.

A Compromise in Genre Appeal

While Tindalos Interactive’s intention to appeal to a wider audience is understandable, the compromise between catering to genre fans and reaching a broader market ultimately weakens the game. The streamlined gameplay and lack of depth in strategy are significant drawbacks for players seeking a more comprehensive turn-based tactics experience. Aliens: Dark Descent could have been a revolutionary game in its own right, but it falls short due to its compromises.

A Recommendation for Fans Willing to Overlook the Flaws

Overall, Aliens: Dark Descent is a beautiful and engaging game that authentically represents the Aliens franchise. For fans who are willing to overlook its limitations and can appreciate it for what it is, the game offers a worthwhile experience. However, for those seeking a more robust strategy game, this may not be the best choice.