Even the most dedicated fans of American McGee’s Alice, the mischievous action game from the 2000s, will admit that it was more notable for its creative twist on Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland than for its gameplay. However, its sequel, Alice: Madness Returns, maintains the fantastic art style of the original while seeking to improve the gameplay experience.
A Familiar Setting
During a live demo of Madness Returns, I had the opportunity to witness the game in action. My initial impression was how similar it appeared to the original. The gameplay alternates between simplistic platforming and combat against twisted opponents such as card knights and insects. Fortunately, the platforming segments I observed seemed more accessible, which is a welcome change considering the frustration caused by imprecise jumping in the first Alice game.
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A Weapon for Every Occasion
Alice wields four primary weapons in combat, each a nightmarish revision of real-world objects. For ranged attacks, a pepper grinder has been transformed into a rapid-fire machine gun, while the teapot cannon offers a slower but more powerful area-of-effect shot. If you prefer up-close combat, you can use the vorpal blade, a returning weapon from the first game, or a hopping horse that has been reimagined as a giant club. Additionally, Alice can deploy clockwork rabbit mines strategically.
Fast-Paced and Fluid Combat
Combat in Madness Returns is noticeably faster and more fluid than in its predecessor. As Alice’s ranged weapons can overheat, players are compelled to engage in melee combat frequently rather than relying solely on long-range attacks. This dynamic keeps the action intense and prevents players from passively picking off their twisted foes from a distance. As Alice progresses through the game, she acquires teeth, one of the most disturbing collectibles in gaming history, to upgrade her weaponry.
Unraveling a Dark Mystery
The grim story of Madness Returns sees Alice navigating between brief segments set in Victorian England, where she attempts to uncover the truth behind her family’s brutal murder, and an increasingly twisted Wonderland. In the Wonderland portions, she collects memories that gradually unveil the mystery from the real world. Each memory provides a different clue, whether it’s a short dialogue clip or a fully playable vision.
Unforgettable Moments
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In addition to the standard platforming and combat, the level I witnessed featured an exciting set-piece moment. Amidst a maze garden, Alice encounters the Executioner, a giant joker card armed with a massive scythe. Since Alice is not yet powerful enough to confront him head-on, the game switches perspectives. In a Crash Bandicoot-style sequence, Alice must run toward the camera, dodging obstacles as the Executioner approaches, spinning his deadly weapon. However, all hope is not lost. If Alice manages to survive long enough to find some cake, she will grow larger than her opponent and be able to defeat him.
The Artistry of Madness Returns
Based on this hands-off demo, it is still difficult to form a definitive opinion about Alice: Madness Returns. The artistry is clearly the highlight of the game. Although it may not be the best-looking game in terms of pure graphical quality, the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the world, from ominously flying cards to spinning red portals in the sky, and from twisted vines to crooked walkways. The stunning world design compensates for any shortcomings in the gameplay.
Anticipating the Release
While it remains uncertain how Madness Returns will ultimately be received, the improvements in design suggest a step up from its predecessor. However, a final verdict can only be made once players have the opportunity to experience the game for themselves. Luckily, the wait will not be long, as Madness Returns is set to release in June.
FAQs
1. Can I play Alice: Madness Returns without having played the first game?
Absolutely! While familiarity with the first Alice game may enhance the overall experience, Madness Returns is designed to be enjoyed as a standalone title.
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2. What platforms will Alice: Madness Returns be available on?
The game will be available on multiple platforms, including Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.
3. Is Alice: Madness Returns suitable for all ages?
The game has a darker and more mature tone compared to its predecessor, making it more suitable for older audiences.
Conclusion
Alice: Madness Returns promises to deliver a visually captivating and artistically rich gaming experience. With improved gameplay mechanics and a fascinating story that unravels in both Wonderland and Victorian England, players can anticipate a unique adventure. Whether you are a fan of the original Alice game or new to the series, this upcoming release is worth keeping an eye on. Get ready to dive into the madness when Madness Returns arrives in June.
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