Dead Space
Dead Space
Individual Game Mechanics
Looking
Moving
Stomping
Punching
Crouching
Shooting
Switching Weapons
Reloading
Telekinesis
Zero gravity Jumping
Holographic HUD
Real Time Control
Dead Space is a single player third person shooter developed by EA. All of the mechanics give the impression of instantaneous reactions because the reaction of the mechanics is faster than the human processor. While several actions are slow (to simulate weight) there is at least some movement as soon as a mechanic is used. However, control of the characters direction is forfeited during a zero gravity jump. The player must point to a location that is directly viewable and then activate the zero gravity jump mechanic. Once in a jump, the player is not able to change directions or look around. In addition, a player is momentarily forced to stay in the same location if they are using the stomp mechanic. The Holographic HUD also forces the player to stay in place once activated. All other mechanics can be used while moving.
Spatial Simulation
The spatial simulation plays a big role in the actual gameplay of Dead Space. The game takes place on a spaceship and each level represents a part of the ship. The game gives the illusion that you are never loading new levels or that you are just exploring an “open-world” ship by requiring you use a train or elevator to get between the different parts. The player interacts with the environment in a realistic manner. Doors must be opened by pressing a key pad. Crates can be destroyed by stomping or shooting them. It is also possible to use things like malfunctioning doors and rotating lab equipment to kill enemies. The path the player is supposed to follow isn’t completely obvious due to the multitudes of dead-ends and maze like hallways. In addition, the enemies have access to parts of the level that the player doesn’t. They can use air vents or crawl along the ceiling. In some instances, there is zero gravity and a player must jump from wall to wall in order to survive the challenge.
Polish
The polish in Dead Space is phenomenal. It literally brings the game to life and turns it from an ordinary third-person shooter to a horrific stress inducing survival game. The use of shadow and low light constantly has the player wondering if there was an enemy or just a crate. The player wears a giant metal suit so things break when he steps on them. There is an excess of blood and gore in the game. This includes gory rooms that the player stumbles upon and bloody interactions with the enemies. The sound of the game is also very impressive. You constantly feel like you are being followed because you hear footsteps or whispers. The game creators also added other things in the game that are neither allies nor enemies. These ghost or followers will just appear for a moment and disappear. This is most likely used to get the player to go off on an incorrect course.
Summery
I think Dead Space is an excellent example of a game with rich game feel. The creators were able to create original and fun mechanics like zero gravity jumping, telekinesis, and a HUD that projects onto the environment. The feel of the levels are massive, but also instructional enough so the player isn’t lost forever. The polish is the final part of the puzzle when it comes to creating the chilling fear that the game may cause. From the moment you start, you will never feel at ease because of the terrifying feel of the game.
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