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Review of Beyond: Two Souls on PS3

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Oct 2013
Cover image of Beyond: Two Souls on PS3
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PS3 PS3 logo
Released: 08 Oct 2013
Genre: Interactive drama, Action-adventure
Developer: Quantic Dream
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment

Introduction

Beyond: Two Souls isn't just a game; it's a full-fledged emotional rollercoaster wrapped in a shiny PS3 package and infused with star power galore, featuring none other than Ellen Page and Willem Dafoe. If you've ever wondered what it's like to experience life through the eyes of a girl with a ghost buddy, well, buckle up and put on your psychic seatbelt, because this game taps into realms that might make your ex's emotional baggage look like a stroll in the park.

Gameplay

So here's the deal: you control Jodie Holmes, who can tap into the spiritual realm thanks to her buddy Aiden, an invisible ghost with quite a strong personality - like that friend who always wants to call the shots, but you can't kick them out because they know too much about your childhood. The gameplay alternates between Jodie's life-from-childhood-to-adulthood and Aiden's antics that often look like the world's worst game of hide-and-seek. Want to possess someone? Sure! Want to scare the pants off them? As long as it doesn't involve Aiden getting grounded, you're good to go! Interact where you can! Players must navigate an array of quick-time events that transition between cutscenes and gameplay - kind of like if Inception had a lovechild with Heavy Rain. Whether you're tackling a chase scene or simply attempting to eat a sandwich without veering off into a weird tangent, every interaction counts. Choices made in conversation can lead to some unexpectedly heavy outcomes, and there are multiple endings depending on how well you can keep your supernatural sidekick in check. Forget linear storytelling; this is more like a Jacob's Ladder of multiple narrative threads. You'll often find yourself thinking, 'Did I just ruin that poor person's life?' Spoiler alert: yes, yes you did.

Graphics

Visually, Beyond: Two Souls is like someone dipped your PS3 in a pool of vibrant colors and sci-fi aesthetics. The motion capture is top-notch, capturing the facial expressions of a talented cast led by Page and Dafoe with uncanny precision. Imagine trying to re-enact scenes from Titanic but instead of 'I'm the king of the world!', you're having existential crises and dodging ghosts in slow motion. The game's cinematography is sleek and cinematic; you'll be questioning whether you're playing a game or watching a film with exceptional directional flair. If visual prowess was a test, Beyond would ace it faster than the speed of light.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Beyond: Two Souls is an experience rather than a traditional game, appealing to those who find joy in storytelling and emotional journeys - and let's face it, if you need constant action, well, you're barking up the wrong tree. With its mix of supernatural mystique and character-driven narratives, the game leaves you pondering life, death, and the annoying intricacies of having a ghost best friend. Critics will argue on its motion-based gameplay and narrative structures, but for the right audience, it can feel like a metaphysical connection straight to the heart. So grab your controller, throw on some cat ears, and prepare for a journey that'll tug at your heartstrings - just don't blame me if you end up sobbing into your snack bowl.

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