While Sherlock Holmes has already had several successful video game adaptations from Frogwares, another very famous sleuth, the Belgian Hercule Poirot, has never been so famous in games. However, the French company Microids, namely the newly created branch in Lyon, is now trying to make some adjustments. A few years after the release of the new movie based on the “Murder on the Orient Express” we will see a game adaptation.
At Gamescom, I got to play one of the introductory parts of the game, when Poirot first learns of the murder and starts investigating it. But first I would like to note the visual component. While the game doesn’t boast any super realistic graphics and certainly doesn’t have the same budget as AAA games, the style is very pretty, so the title looks really pretty.
On the other hand, they cannot be expected to stick to the plan completely. Poirot himself is also heavily stylized, and above all, the action takes place in our day and not in the 20th century, which, of course, significantly changes the overall impression. At the same time, the authors promise that even for those who know this story, they have prepared certain changes and plot twists. One of the biggest news is the addition of a second protagonist named Joanna Locke, in search of which we will have to look back a few years and, apparently, investigate a related case.
Unfortunately, I didn’t get to play Joanna, but after playing the approximately 20 minute demo as Poirot, I had a very positive experience. The gameplay is relatively standard, with you investigating a crime scene and searching for clues, as well as solving a few puzzles. They are quite simple, on the other hand, even in a relatively short period of time, several types have appeared, so I cannot complain too much, the variety can be solid. By the way, Poirot has his own mind map, thanks to which you know how to continue the investigation. If you are completely lost, there is also the possibility of help.
Of course, questioning witnesses is also a key element. I think the dialogue was very well written and the acting was great, only the facial animation may not be top notch, but the lower budget certainly reflects that. By the way, as, for example, in Sherlock, here, too, you must first place the character in a certain “box”, determine his characteristics. Too bad you can’t pick the wrong one. The game will not progress until you choose everything correctly. It looks like it will be a purely linear experience.
Other than that, I really enjoyed Murder on the Orient Express. Addictive gameplay is complemented by the already mentioned stylized graphics and good sound. So I’m already looking forward to the full release, which unfortunately is scheduled for a very busy October 19th. I hope I can find time to play because I don’t want to miss out on this experience. If you love detective stories too, you definitely have something to look forward to.
Source :Indian TV
