If ever there has been released a value for money pack on the PC then this is it, because this contains the well deserved critically acclaimed Penumbra: Overture and Penumbra: Black Plague plus the puzzle orientated expansion pack called Requiem. For those of you that have never heard of them – the Penumbra series is some of the best survival horror games yet produced which place as much emphasis on challenging problem solving situations as it does the actual survival from the evil within the game. They provide a unique horror and psychological experience, thanks in part to a special physics system which allows the player to interact with almost everything that is on the screen at any one time.
The first game – Overture graphically is the weakest of the three and mistakes that were made on this title were definitely learnt in the second but it is still a fine game setting the scene for what is to come. The feel of the game is perfect and very quickly the confusion of the central character called Philip quickly becomes you own thanks to the mood created by the game and the environments that are presented to you. It also features some of the creepiest creatures to attack you in a game including some gigantic worms, undead mutts and spiders.
The second title – Black Plague is the best of the series with puzzles that, on the whole make more sense than its predecessor and better graphics. There is also less roaming enemies such as the dogs in the previous title which actually helps to make the game flow better. As the second chapter you also don’t have to go through the build up to the action starting and the improved game mechanic actually has you second guessing what you see with your own eyes and hear with your own ears. It is very disconcerting in a way but also a very powerful atmospheric tool. The first person perspective, even though I personally don’t get on with first person games actually is essential here. The fact that you wander around opening drawers and doors etc, having to mimic your actions with the mouse rather than just clicking away all add to the feel and the way the game immerses you into it.
Finally there comes Requiem and in some ways although this is a good title it does seem rather like a sequel too many – which many horror movie fans will be used to. The story was very neatly and satisfactory concluded at the end of Black Plague so this seems so unnecessary. However, having said that it is still a reasonable title despite the fact that this one has a female voice guiding you from puzzle to puzzle letting you know how many glowing keys you have still to find in order to progress. Whilst the first two games had a narrative that immersed you into the action and therefore, even if you though the games quality had dipped at any point, you still carried on, this third title seems to be puzzle after puzzle for puzzles sake if you know what I mean.
In all three cases the graphics presented are not the prettiest in the world, although for me the ones in Black Plague are definitely the best. However, the nature and style of the graphics adds significantly to the mood the game presents. The soundtrack is also essential to the feel of the game with excellent music throughout and although the vocal acting, especially in the first title is a little off at times it dosent spoil the game at all.
Overall this is a good quality compilation pack and one all PC games players shouldn’t be without. The quality of what is found inside varies from game to game but none of the titles are disappointing. Each title will take you between 5-6 hours to complete unless you get completely stuck and I am a little unsure if you would play them again once completed but they are definitely ones you should play.
Very recommended.
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Windows 
