The Bottom Line:
The lifelike control of Abe will quickly pull you into this rich cinematic RPG.
Overall Rating:
Author's Review
The first thing one notices about this game is the richness of detail that has been crafted into it, even from the opening credits. An abundance of high-budget cutscenes guides the user into the world of Abe, an odd-looking creature that wants to tell you his story.
I am one who never contemplates reading any part of the manual, and I was happy to be catapulted into the game and learn about the controls by just experimenting. Throughout each level, in-game "billboards" scroll useful hints on what buttons are needed to solve various problems.
The problems presented to Abe are a variety of innovative trial-and-error tasks, each closely interwoven with the current chapter of the storyline. Most of the problem-solving was extremely challenging, and provided me with a heightened sense of accomplishment as I moved through the game.
Another great aspect to the problem-solving is the fact that Abe is equipped with nothing throughout the game--the player must accomplish every goal by sneaking, rolling, or interacting with characters and objects. Despite the lack of inventory/weaponry, every single button on the Playstation controller was well-used. I found myself quickly learning very intuitive button-combinations to make Abe say things like "Hello" or "Follow Me". As the game progresses, I learned how to chant, growl, and whistle. All of these lifelike abilities are used frequently to manipulate characters and environments.
Although much of the gameplay is very unusual, it is extremely easy to learn and very addictive. I have not played a game like this one, and I recommend you try it out if for no other reason than just to watch the cinematic storyline unfold. The 2-player mode offers even one extra way to enjoy the game, and for some of the more difficult levels you may want an extra brain by your side!