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Harrison: Infogrames & Atari done with 'huge-budget, single-player games'
Stopping short of calling Alone in the Dark his troubled (transitioning?) company's "swan song," Infogrames president and Atari legal guardian Phil Harrison has again proposed that the company (meaning Infogrames the parent and Atari the wholly owned US subsidiary) is focused on carving out its place in the budding online gaming business with a stress on social communication. "I don't see that we're going to be making huge-budget, single-player games in the future," Harrison told Gamasutra, adding, "Now, that doesn't mean that we won't have ambition to do really incredible games ... but they won't be one-player, narrative-driven, start-middle-end games."Will we be hearing the same message if Alone in the Dark manages to answer CEO David Gardner's prayers (to the tune of 2-3 million units sold)? Sounds like it. Harrison has clearly set his sights on taking a "slightly aggressive, leading-edge role" in the online gaming movement where loneliness is the last motif he wants to cultivate and dark days are in the company's past. "We have plenty of titles in our pipeline, and we think [Alone in the Dark] will be an important part of our year, but it's by no means the only part of our year."
Phil Harrison talks Alone in the Dark, spotlight shines on game footage
The dialog may sound cheesy, but Alone in the Dark looks like it could be good enough (and given our hands-on, maybe even 3 million units good enough) to try when it releases in late June. In the video above, Atari/Infogrames Directeur Général Délégué Phil Harrison speaks to 1Up about being impressed after seeing AitD for the first time and enjoying the narrative structure of the title.The real highlight in the video is the impressive amount of gameplay footage shown, which gives us a much better idea of what the title will actually be like. We're not sure yet if Alone in the Dark will be "blow your mind" fantastic, but much like The Darkness last summer, it appears well suited in getting some attention from the consoles it'll launch on during a less-than-crowded release time. Don't fret PS3 owners, you should be way too busy with Solid Snake starting June 12 to care about little ol' Edward Carnby.%Gallery-14429%
Joystiq hands-on: Alone in the Dark (360)
var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/xbox/Hands_on_Alone_in_the_Dark'; With some trepidation, I walked into Atari's offices today to check out the newest (and quite possibly final) build of Alone in the Dark. With controller in hand, I started a fresh save file ... only to have three hours blur by and be bombarded with a never-ending series of cinematic, adrenaline-pumping sequences. I was totally unprepared for Eden Studios' bold reimagining of the franchise. This is not your father's Alone in the Dark.A key point that the Atari representative reiterated throughout my play session was the influence of serialized television in the design of the game. The game is broken up into a series of "episodes," each ending on a cliffhanger. Players are able to select levels and sequences via a menu that resembles something you'd find on a DVD. Not only can players jump to any level they want, but they can skip to specific "chapters" within each episode, as well. Each episode ends with credits, and each new episode starts with a very cute "Previously on Alone in the Dark" recap. (Interestingly, all the episodes are unlocked when a player starts the game. This means if you get stuck at a certain point, you can simply skip to the next chapter and use the recap to see what you missed. The reasoning behind this? Eden wants everyone to finish this game, no matter how challenging the puzzles may get.)These trivial changes to the presentation are amusing, but the TV inspiration runs much deeper. One season of a great television show has a clear beginning, middle and end. However, each episode usually focuses on one specific issue in an overarching story arc. Alone in the Dark fully embraces the serialized narrative, and uses it to create stunning set pieces in every chapter of every episode we've had an opportunity to play. Alone in the Dark isn't survival horror like we've seen in Silent Hill and Resident Evil. No, it's also about platforming. It's about puzzle solving, first person shooting ... and even driving. Alone in the Dark really is a great season of 24, albeit one with a supernatural twist.%Gallery-14429%
Free Alone in the Dark music tracks
While the verdict is still out on Alone in the Dark as a full game, there is no denying that the music is right on target. Honestly, what better fit for a survival horror game than a creepy children's choir, right? Right. Good news then, as our friends at Gamertag Radio are giving away three samples from the game's soundtrack -- performed by Grammy winner Mystery Of The Bulgarian Voices -- for free. We've checked out all three tracks and can assure you that they are of adequate sweep, depth, and creepitude. Head over to GTR to grab 'em for yourself. Also, GTR will apparently have some pretty extensive hands-on coverage of the game going up tomorrow, so keep your eyes peeled.
Pre-order Alone in the Dark, get some free goodies and $10 off
Over at Gamestop, they have a pretty solid pre-order deal for future Alone in the Dark purchasers that is a mix of money savings and free swag goodness.If you plop down your pre-order cash before Alone in the Dark's June release, you'll not only get $10 off the game itself, but they'll also throw in a free t-shirt and a free soundtrack as well. This offer isn't good for the special edition seeing that Gamestop doesn't even have a listing for the special edition on their site, but if you're all but guaranteed to make a Alone in the Dark purchase, then this pre-order deal is a must.[Thanks, NUCK1N FUTS]
A pair of Spring Showcase Alone in the Dark videos
Of all the things that could have been showcased for Alone in the Dark at Microsoft's Spring Showcase, we're not sure we would have picked the two sequences featured in these videos. Alone in the Dark is a survival horror game, right? As such, one would expect to be treated to sequences of surviving horrifying situations. Speaking literally, we suppose these videos do just that, but we were expecting some ghosts, monsters, a mutant insect, something. What we get is some ledge-grabbing platforming and a car escape sequence. Don't get us wrong, it doesn't look bad -- in fact, these are things you don't see in many other survival horror games -- but we're just waiting to see some gameplay that lives up to the atmosphere created by the cinematic trailers that have been released.Who knows, maybe we'll get lucky and see the promised demo before the week is out. We're really hoping it will make believers out of us. We want to believe.
Alone in the Dark shows off driving gameplay
If you like cheese, then you're gonna love the new Alone in the Dark gameplay trailer after the break. Try to ignore the giant pop-up on how to turn off the car's headlights and just focus on the voice acting, which even Resident Evil fans might cringe at. Who knows, maybe the game is supposed to be filled with fromagey goodness?Considering Alone in the Dark is expected to sell 2-3 million copies this year, that confidence might be a little hard to understand after seeing this "GTA in hell" video. Oh well, hopefully we'll still be able to light plenty of stuff on fire.
Video: Alone in the Dark trailer and achievements
Cinematic. That's the one word we use to describe the new Alone in the Dark trailer because that's actually what it's called, "Cinematic Trailer". How very original. Name aside, the trailer is a pretty decent look at what the game has to offer, complete with man slapping, rope climbing, dangerous taxi driving and some interesting music. Also, after you've completed your trailer viewing, hop on over to X360A to view the recently released Alone in the Dark achievements. Though, we must say that the recycled achievement artwork makes the devs look a bit lazy.Read - Alone in the Dark cinematic trailerRead - Alone in the Dark achievements
BBFC rating confirms Alone in the Dark's spookiness
The British Board of Film Classification has posted details on the '15' rating pegged on Atari's upcoming survival-horror shriekfest, Alone in the Dark. The extended classification information on the BBFC website notes the game's "frequent use of strong language," but cuts it some some slack since, unlike Uwe Boll's ill-fated film adaptation, it "does not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury." The text reminds us that while there's "plenty of violence," it's all "mitigated by the fantasy context." Thank goodness! Aside from the aggressive use of "guns, posts, spades, flamethrowers and other items," the BBFC also warns that we'd best watch out for "moments of horror, with some of the supernatural beasts that attack the protagonist arriving in fairly unexpected - and shocking - fashion." So ... zombies wearing ponchos, then.%Gallery-14429%
Alone in the Dark producer demonstrates Wii controls
Finally, someone actually takes the time to show us some of the Wii's controls. We've been wondering about that, since those Xbox 360 and PS3 fanboys and fangirls have those fancy-schmancy graphics, the Wii has been left out in the cold, alone and hungry. Not anymore, as we all finally get a glimpse at the game running on Wii. The beginning of the interview is filled with PS3/Xbox 360 gameplay, so you'll want to fast-forward to about the 2 minute mark, where it starts to get good.[Via Joystiq]
Alone in the Dark producer shows Wii controls and gameplay
With the first footage we've seen of the Wii's Alone in the Dark in action, the game's producer, Maxime Loppin, shows off the title to JeuxVideo. To be honest, we know next to nothing of what Monsieur Loppin is saying, but sometimes actions speak louder than words.After the break we've embedded footage of Loppin playing the game (he starts around 1:57). A nice touch: by moving the Wiimote and nunchuk away from each other in a "coat opening motion" players can view Carnby's inventory, which he conveniently keeps inside his coat. And if anyone is feeling super ambitious and wants to translate, be our guest.
Alone in the Dark special edition detailed, flashlight not included
One of our, surprisingly, most anticipated titles of 2008 happens to be the latest installment in the Alone in the Dark series. Taking advantage of our suspiciously piqued interest for the game, Atari has announced and detailed a special edition that will release along side the standard package. Included in the over-sized box edition is the game (duh!), making of documentary, CD soundtrack (8 tracks), art book and a figurine of in game hero Edward Carnby.While no price has been confirmed for the special edition, this package would be a steal for an extra $10. Here's hoping the special edition price-point doesn't dim the lights on our bank account when it releases this summer.
Alone in the Dark scares up a limited edition
For pack rats who salivate for all things Carnby, Atari has released images to CVG of what collectors can expect to find inside the Alone in the Dark Limited Edition box. Currently only confirmed for release in Europe, the box will contain an Edward Carnby doll, official soundtrack CD, art book, making-of documentary and the game. There's currently no price attached and the limited edition is available only for Xbox 360, Wii and PC.We'll take this as a sign that the oft-delayed game might actually (shockingly) release June 24. After all, how can there be a "making-of documentary" if the game isn't done, right? Whether the game actually sells as well as Infogrames is predicting ... we'll have to wait and see.
Alone in the Dark gets limited edition package
Atari has the right idea when it comes to limited editions, as the Alone in the Dark limited edition package above boasts a plethora of goodies for the fan. If you're having trouble making out all of the things in the box above, here's a bulleted list for easy consumption: Edward Carnby figurine official soundtrack art book making-of documentary the custom box it all comes in We know some of you aren't all that excited about Atari's upcoming game, but for those of you still looking to find out what's going down in Central Park, will you be picking up this limited edition bundle?%Gallery-10200%
Alone in the Dark 'Descent' trailer looks more than decent
Has anyone else noticed an escalation in intensity from the trailers for Atari's rebirth of the once loved horror franchise, Alone in the Dark? The first bit of video we saw had our hero, Edward Carnby, traipsing throughout all manner of empty (and beautiful) environments, smashing bits of furniture and putting out house fires. Then came the tech demo, where we saw the game's innovative inventory system in action, and learned of the terrible ways one can abuse mutant sewer rats. However, this recent trailer for the game is a one-way ride aboard the Crazy Train -- flaming elevator shafts, headcrab knock-offs, and a high-speed escape from an ominously crumbling New York City? Yes, please. You can check out a cornucopia of recently released videos (including a "piping" hot trailer we've thrown after the break) on the Alone in the Dark Gametrailers channel -- then spend the rest of the day hoping all subsequent media for the game becomes more and more intense, until previews of the game's climactic gunfight on the mouth of an active volcano against a cybernetically-enhanced Bea Arthur begin to surface.
Alone in the Dark on PS3 by Autumn, possibly with episodic content
If you were miffed by the formerly vague "sometime in 2008" release schedule for Alone in the Dark, then take comfort in the new "Autumn 2008" forecast. Brilliant. A whole season has finally been pinned down for the PS3 version. While the game has endured delays in the past, it looks like all other versions of the game (excluding the PS3) will be released on June 24. On the bright side of things, there is an incentive for PS3 gamers looking to get lonely in the dark several months behind their console cousins. The PS3 version won't be a simple cut-n-paste port, but will be a specially adapted game with the possibility of episodic content. Worth it? That remains to be seen. Let's stay positive and hope so.
Alone in the Dark demo in early May
The survival horror genre hasn't been to big on the Xbox in general, recent releases not withstanding of course. And Atari's fifth series entry is going to be one of the big games to tide scare-happy gamers over until the ever awaited other fifth game in a series, Resident Evil 5. Even though Alone in the Dark 5 was pushed back to June 24th, it's expected to sell well and we're glad that there'll be a demo long in advance of release. Set tentatively for release in early May, gamers should have well over a month before the game hits shelves to evaluate it in some form.
Infogrames: Alone in the Dark sales to hit 2-3 million
Not phased by a competitive market or even a delay, Infogrames has high expectations for their eerie Alone in the Dark and is hoping to stuff their pockets full of cashola come its release.Infogrames head honcho David Gardners told Reuters that they expect Alone in the Dark to sell two to three million copies, ultimately making it a profitable venture. "We want to stop losing money," said Gardners and that the "number one goal is to get a business plan together that gets us to a break-even level." Which, we must admit, is quite the solid goal. Hopefully, Infogrames can release an enjoyable Alone in the Dark experience and somehow move a massive amount of copies through retail. Selling three million video games is no easy task.[Via EuroGamer]
Infogrames CEO: Alone in the Dark will sell 2-3 million units this fiscal year
Infogrames CEO, David Gardner, tells Reuters he believes Alone in the Dark will sell two to three million copies this fiscal year. That means that, between its June 24 release and next March, the title needs to perform better than a game like BioShock. Given the fact that the title is being released on Wii, PS2, Xbox 360 and PC (PS3 is "sometime in 2008"), it just may hit that projection when combining all the systems ... maybe.Gardner's currently focused on getting Infogrames / Atari to stop hemorrhaging money, and has Directeur Général Délégué Phil Harrison and friends looking to "get a business plan together that gets [Atari] to a break-even level." Unsurprisingly, Gardner couldn't give specifics on when he expects that to happen.[Via GameDaily] %Gallery-14429%
Alone in the Dark pushed back to June
Click for hi-res image If you were anticipating going through Atari's latest, Alone in the Dark, for the Wii, then know that you'll just need to wait a bit longer; the game has been pushed back from May to June. No word on what the developers need to fix in the game, but we're wondering if the game couldn't benefit from a little extra development time. Sure, it's been awhile waiting for a new Alone in the Dark game, but when it finally releases, you'll definitely want the best game possible, right?%Gallery-10200%[Via Joystiq]
