Condemned: Criminal Origins is surprisingly good

[The Fake Shemp]

I never played it and the responses from folks whom have is pretty polarizing ("It sucks!" "It's good!"), so I was kind of hesitant to try it.  But - hey! - with discounts and all, I was able to pick up a copy from work for about $9 and I couldn't pass it up.  Plus, I need something to play besides Omega 5 and Puzzle Quest while I wait for Lost Oddysey.

To my surprise, it's pretty good.  Don't get me wrong, it's definitely flawed - the engine seems dated now, lack of destructible environments for something that makes you constantly utilize your surroundings, poor level design (certain doors unlock and some don't, despite the fact that they'll look EXACTLY the same), etc.  It definitely feels like a game rushed out the door for launch.  But the music and the atmosphere thus far is pretty immersive and it feels like it's trying for something fresh.

I totally dig it.  Especially for $9.  The sequel is out soon and apparently retailing for $10 cheaper than your standard Xbox 360 new release.  Might have to give it a shot.

[Sho Nuff]

I nearly pooped myself inside the shopping mall level

Oh god oh god the music ahhhh

[brawndolicious]

the game was fucking awesome.  did you actually finish it?  it gets a lot better later on.  I think it's probably the scariest game I've ever played.

if you're pussying out in the bumfights then you can turn down the difficulty level at anytime just fyi.

[The Fake Shemp]

I am inside the Metro Station - I just started the game.

[brawndolicious]

oh, it gets a hell of a lot better.

[Smooth Groove]

Glad you're enjoying it.  I remember the game as being very good looking although it's been a year since I've played it.  Also, I played it on my PC.  The atmosphere was excellent although the gameplay got kinda tired and repetitive halfway through.  I just kept playing 'cause of the graphics and story.  Too bad, most of the secrets were still not revealed at the end.  

[The Fake Shemp]

I probably would've been impressed with the visuals at the 360 launch, but so many titles have surpassed it - even in its own genre, that it looks very much like a high definition Xbox title.  It's not pushing a ton of geometry or anything real spectacular, just decent lighting, good textures and excellent art direction.

BioShock is pretty much the bar for immersive single player first-person shooter nowadays, both in visuals and art direction.  And that's a pretty high bar.

[MCD]

oh fuck yes.

[Mupepe]

best launch game!!!