This Is the Zodiac Speaking is a psychological thriller game developed by Punch Punk Games. Inspired by the real-life unsolved case of the Zodiac Killer, this game puts players in the shoes of a journalist determined to solve the mystery. While the premise is intriguing, the execution falls short in some areas.
One of the highlights of This Is the Zodiac Speaking is the atmospheric and eerie setting. The game takes place in a gloomy and unsettling 1970s Northern California, which adds to the suspense and mystery. The sound design is also commendable, with haunting music and ambient sounds that keep you on edge throughout.
The gameplay mainly consists of exploration, puzzle-solving, and stealth sections. While the exploration and puzzle-solving elements are enjoyable, the stealth sections feel clunky and poorly implemented. The AI of the enemies is often inconsistent, leading to frustrating moments and breaking immersion.
The story of This Is the Zodiac Speaking starts strong, but it gradually loses its momentum. The initial intrigue and tension give way to repetitive and predictable sequences. The pacing feels off, with moments of intense action followed by long stretches of slow progression. The character development is also lacking, with shallow and uninteresting personalities.
Graphically, This Is the Zodiac Speaking is a mixed bag. While the environments are detailed and atmospheric, the character models and animations are lackluster. The game suffers from occasional frame rate drops and graphical glitches, which can be distracting.
Despite its flaws, This Is the Zodiac Speaking manages to create a sense of unease and keeps you engaged for the most part. The voice acting is solid, and the narrative, although flawed, does have its moments. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers and can overlook some of the game's shortcomings, it's worth giving it a try.
In conclusion, This Is the Zodiac Speaking is a chilling thriller with room for improvement. While it excels in creating an eerie atmosphere and delivering an intriguing premise, it falls short in terms of gameplay, story development, and technical aspects. With some refinements and polish, it could have been a standout title in the genre.
