Eternal Darkness: Sanity's Requiem

Eternal Darkness had an unusually long period of development. Work on it began in 1998 as a game for Nintendo's Nintendo 64 system, but when the game's developer, Silicon Knights, was made a full subsidiary of Nintendo, the development was switched to the then still in development Gamecube hardware. Although many games that spend four years in development have a lot left to be desired, Eternal Darkness overcomes that barrier, delivering an experience that no other game has ever produced.

Although the game features an intricate storyline, a diverse cast of characters and an excellent system of play, what sets Eternal Darkness apart from all other games before it is the Sanity Meter. As characters are spotted by enemies, the meter gradually empties. Although it can be refilled, when the meter is no longer full, the game begins to play tricks, not only on the character that is going insane, but also on the player. A diverse range of insanity effects keeps players on their toes, not knowing when an effect will occur or what it will be.

While the Sanity Meter is a major part of Eternal Darkness, it wouldn't be enough to sustain a game by itself. However, Silicon Knights has put together one of the best gaming experiences in recent memory. Very little about the game can be considered truly flawed. Even the graphics, which show hints of its days as a Nintendo 64 title, have a certain charm to them, the faults overcome by the overall presentation of the game.

The plot is very intricate and incredibly thought out for a video game. Rather than play existential as Metal Gear Solid 2 ended, everything weaves together to form a coherent knot. The voice acting is top notch and only adds to what is a truly incredible experience. Eternal Darkness is sure to be recognized as a classic and destined to be followed by many inferior imitators.