Wes Fenlon, an Archive Spelunker, reflects on the legacy of older video games, particularly focusing on the unique experiences offered by titles such as The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena. While recent reviews have highlighted enduring classics like Mirror’s Edge and Far Cry 2, Fenlon expresses a certain nostalgia for Riddick, a first-person shooter that has faded from the market. He recalls playing both Riddick games on the Xbox and Xbox 360, where their innovative gameplay mechanics—such as stealth, melee combat, and engaging quests—were groundbreaking for console shooters at the time.
Fenlon draws a parallel between the success of Batman: Arkham Asylum and the inventive level design found in Escape From Butcher Bay, suggesting that Riddick laid the groundwork for future licensed games. He laments the unavailability of both Riddick titles in the current market, pondering whether Vin Diesel, who has hinted at a new Riddick film, could resolve the licensing issues to bring back the franchise. Fenlon envisions a new Riddick game that captures the essence of Pitch Black while incorporating advanced AI akin to that seen in Alien: Isolation.
The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena review – PC Gamer issue #200 (UK, May 2009)
As Fenlon navigates the gritty world of Riddick, he finds himself embodying the titular character, realizing that he is the monster lurking in the shadows. The gameplay experience is immersive, allowing players to engage with the environment in ways that challenge traditional gaming norms. The narrative unfolds across two games, beginning with a remake of the acclaimed Escape from Butcher Bay and continuing aboard the ship Dark Athena, where Riddick’s escape story evolves.
The game introduces various types of guards, from robust humans to autonomous drones, creating a dynamic environment where stealth is paramount. The AI, while simplistic, adds an element of strategy as players exploit darkness to their advantage. Fenlon notes that as Riddick’s actions escalate, the gameplay shifts from stealth-based tactics to more conventional shooting mechanics, introducing a variety of weapons, including a tranquilizer gun that allows for non-lethal takedowns.
Among the arsenal, the Scar gun stands out, capable of launching remotely detonated explosives, adding a layer of excitement to boss fights. However, Fenlon critiques the game’s level design, particularly in the latter stages of Dark Athena, where some environments feel uninspired compared to earlier, more inventive settings. The checkpointing system also draws criticism; the absence of quicksave options can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences, forcing players to restart from precarious situations.
Despite these flaws, Fenlon finds himself drawn back to the game, captivated by its adult themes, humor, and overall enjoyment. The Riddick series, with its blend of action and narrative depth, remains a notable chapter in the evolution of video games, leaving players yearning for a revival of its unique charm.