Ad Infinitum is an interesting but weird approach to WWI. This first-person experience is filled with cold and odd moments that will make you scowl. Moreover, the weird blend of surreal action and reality merge to create a nightmarish experience. Alongside this, there is some wonderful storytelling and some genuinely interesting puzzles. However, it is the hellish images and the haunting memories that make this captivating.
This cruel adventure title was developed by Hekate and published by Nacon. Additionally, the adventure moments are complemented by snippets of lore and a smattering of awful creatures. As such, the developers haven’t taken a literal approach. Consequently, this improves the genre and theme tropes and allows a huge dollop of creative licence.
Ad Infinitum is a tale of two realities.
What makes Ad Infinitum so great is its ability to blend 2 unique realities without diluting the core plot. Moreover, it doesn’t rely on clichéd ideas to progress its story. Instead, its linear thoughts flit between two juxtaposing elements while incorporating key elements of both realities.
You control Paul Von Schmidt, a young German soldier. This immature lad is a bit of a loose cannon and his lack of maturity impacts his surrounding troops and his relationship with his brother. As the war comes to an end, the siblings are separated as French forces capture them individually. However, once the war is over, the pair are sent home. In the safety of his family home, Paul slips into a bizarre mental state. Subsequently, his mind wanders as guilt, loathing, and resentment come to the fore.
A game of exploration and monsters.
The action comprises 3 chapters and 2 unique realities. On one side of the story, you must explore the family home. Here, you will find documents and key family items that will generate memories and add depth to each of the characters. Though this portion of the game wasn’t too disturbing, there are plenty of eerie moments that keep you on your toes. Furthermore, the drip-fed lore was brilliantly descriptive. Additionally, this calm, albeit oppressive state complements the rest of the action.
The second layer of gameplay focuses on the horrific trenches and “No Man’s Land”. These locations are cold, cruel, and grim. Moreover, the claustrophobic and oppressive nature of each body-strewn trench was awful to look at. However, it is the linear flow of the gameplay and the combination of key story elements that bring this to life. What’s more, the monsters that represent emotions towards your family are cruel and relentless.
Layers of Fear!
Much of the action is reminiscent of Layers of Fear. The excellent puzzling elements are taxing and interesting, and force you to explore your surroundings. Additionally, instead of sprinting from place to place, you’ll explore each room thoroughly so as not to miss any key items.
Interestingly, the trench portion of Ad Infinitum takes a different approach. Yes, there are some puzzle elements, but it feels like a first-person action title. Alongside this, there are some interesting stealth moments as you try to avoid each of the haunting monsters. Consequently, you feel on edge throughout as any noise or a flash of light will give the game away.
Ad Infinitum is wonderfully gruesome.
With such a grim theme, it was easy for the developers to create a grisly aesthetic. However, I was impressed that both settings worked so well. Though I’d have preferred some larger open-world elements, the funnelled gameplay and claustrophobic environments were great to explore. Moreover, it catches the essence of doom and despair whilst staying faithful to the era.
The combination of heinous sound effects, impressive ambient noises, and an interesting soundtrack works well. On top of this, the acting was well delivered, and I was hard-pressed to find any faults. As such, this delivers an exceptional performance that will impress the harshest of critics.
Excellent controls.
The stealth elements of Ad Infinitum require accuracy and a slow approach. Thankfully, the excellent controller layout and slick UI reduce frustration and increase usability. However, the slower portions of the game require less finesse. Subsequently, I had no issues solving puzzles, finding clues, or evading monsters.
Though this focuses on a linear timeline, there is replay value and longevity. Depending on the actions you take during each playthrough, you’ll alter the finale of each run. As such, though longevity is limited, there are enough reasons to return many times.
Ad Infinitum is gloriously odd.
The atrocities of WWI still fascinate us. As such, this theme will continue to inspire developers. However, there are times when the ideas are dull, clichéd, and lacking oomph. Thankfully, Ad Infinitum is gloriously odd. Its bizarre use of multiple realities and the exceptional story are captivating. Additionally, its aesthetics are well-polished. Furthermore, there is some longevity if you wish to see every ending. Accordingly, I adore this compelling title and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you put your demons to bed? Solve the puzzles, evade the monsters, and fight your demons.
