Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee

This game is an utter classic. It takes 2D side scrollers to another level with some fantastic graphics and fantastic gameplay. The guys who have designed oddworld, the environments, creatures and characters have been extremely creative in their effort and even greater in their effort to make all these things come alive. The gameplay is reasonably difficult but rewarding. The level design is fantastic and there is actually a good story driving all that. The one single weakness in this game is that your character, whos generally a sad looking chap becomes not-so-sad in the end but thats only a weakness because the game is so good that you bother to care for the character.

This was almost a 10/10 game. The only problem being far too much to do between save points.

I loved this game, but then I loved Abe's Exoddus more - because of QUICKSAVE - didn't have to repeat so much stuff when I goofed...

But still I'm replaying Abe's Oddysee after playing it and Exoddus twice each, and I still really like it.

Hey, can anyone give me a clue of other games that so nicely combine action and puzzles in this way?

Abe's Oddysee epitomises the phrase "every frame a painting" and deserves a spot among the most gorgeous cinematic platforming games ever made, challenged only by its direct sequel, Abe's Exoddus. Tight controls fitted alongside unique possession and gamespeak mechanics make for an incredibly captivating gameplay experience that will have you scrupulously searching every area for the 99 Mudokons you have been tasked to save. Pairing this with a world positively dripping with grim but fantastical lore crafted as a metaphor for real-world worker exploitation cements this introduction to the appropriately-named Oddworld series as an instant classic that not only stands up today, but begs a revisit!

I played this game over a friend's house, just a little skeptical. I mean, an odd-looking blue guy who has to fart and chant in order to free his friends? And the characters look like a mixture between Satan and the Tele-Tubbies. But I gave it a chance and I enjoyed it very much. The gameplay and graphics are very good. The storyline and cutscenes are funny and enjoyable. This game mixes action and puzzles, which proves to be a great combination. Oddworld: Abe's Oddyssey is a few years old now, so pretty cheap so I recommend just going out and buying it. You won't regret it.

(Note - I enjoyed the sequel, Oddworld: Abe's Exxodus a bit more because of additional commands, special features and abilities.)

What I liked:

• Writing

This game has a great sense of humour and is so imaginative. It is rare to see such original concepts and ideas in a game, even at the time. The entire game satires the modern world and the exploitation of the natural environment.

• Game Mechanics

As you progress through the game there are various mechanics introduced to the player when needed. The difficulty slowly ramps up the further you get. Unless you know about a few secrets early on. Each puzzle requires at least some trial and error as well as perfect execution in some cases. This keeps the game fun and interesting as you do not just breeze through. Some sequences will leave you sighing with relief once you've made it through. None will leave you so frustrated that you want to quit... well not in my case!

• Artwork

The artwork of the game i.e. The scenery / character and animal design is all unique and fun to look at. Really impressive stuff. The game is nearly as old as me but I can still appreciate the world building.