i beat the game a while ago and now im playing through a second time, still just as good......
Gameplay: I was worried at first that there would be little more then just beating people to death but it really is deeper then it seems at first glance. Enemies will dodge and hide from you trying to get the upper hand. The games sets a tempo and mood unlike any game before, I have played plenty of horror games and none have raised the hair on the back of my neck like this game. There were times where I was wondering around clueless, but finding out where to go didnt take too long. The SCI elements did a good job of giving a break between fights but I just wish they didnt hold your hand so much through the process. Overall Im immensely impressed by the gameplay and pacing of the game, just wish there was more closure to the story.
Graphics: Wow, you could really tell this game was built for the 360. In high-def textures are crisp and edging near photo-realism, shadows are deep and accurate, and complex geometry throughout the game. Nearly every object in the game uses the havok 3.0 physics which plays a good role in scaring you, you will knock over objects and in 5.1 surround sound you will jump by things dropping around you. Character models have been built of at least 8000 polygons and it shows. The direction for the models looked odd to me at first but quickly grew on me and gave a good idea what to expect out of next gen characters in the future. As far as effects go this game has it in spades, you name it from normal and parallax mapping to real time lighting, everything looks great and is rivaled only by effects seen in movies (you will know what I mean when you see the shadows). Everything I would expect from a next gen launch title.
Sound: The music does a good job of adding to the atmosphere and every object has the appropriate sounds. To me its the little nuances that really add to the games sound, like hearing the concrete bits fall off the rebar when picking it up, your accurate foot steps over the right surface, or the sound of a lead pipe whacking someones skull, everything is heard in precision not found in the current gen. The voice acting ranges from good to above average and does nothing to distract you from the story. Not the premier launch title to take advantage of your sound system but not the worst either.
Controls: Everything is mapped to the right button for maximum enjoyment. The only complaint I would have is that I wish they could have mapped all your SCI tools to the D-pad instead of telling you which to use at the time and using only one button to activate it. Other then the minor quibble its all good.
Overall with all in perspective of it being a launch title and what they tried to achieve with the first next gen horror game, I believe they have succeeded. There is plenty of replay value for those who have to unlock everything and the game is perfect for a good scare.
Score: 9.0/10
just a quick review for those who are interested. i highly suggest this game to anyone looking for a creepy thrill ride.