Free D.C!

Game review

Free D.C!, released in 1991, attempted to carve out a unique space in the gaming world by blending various gameplay elements and a distinctive visual style. The game sets its narrative in a dystopian future where robots have taken over the world, leaving humans confined to a "Human Zoo" near Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. As a human specimen in this new world order, players are tasked with unraveling the mystery behind the deaths of fellow captives.

The game initially captures the player's attention with its unique "claymation" visual style, the result of a collaboration with Will Vinton's renowned claymation team. This stylistic choice promised to set Free D.C! apart from its contemporaries, offering a distinct and memorable aesthetic.

However, despite the promising setup and visual uniqueness, Free D.C! struggles to deliver a cohesive and enjoyable gaming experience. The game ambitiously tries to merge various genres and gameplay mechanics but falls short in its execution. The narrative, which starts with a potentially engaging premise, quickly becomes muddled with a banal plot and uninspired writing.

One of the main issues players encounter in Free D.C! is the combat system. The fighting sequences, rather than adding depth or excitement to the game, feel out of place and are often cited as frustrating. These sequences seem to serve more as a means to artificially extend the game's duration rather than to enhance the gameplay or narrative.

Additionally, the game's attempt at humor through the interactions with robot sidekicks and various characters often misses the mark. The jokes, paired with poor digitized voice acting, detract from the immersion and overall enjoyment. Furthermore, the lack of substantive puzzle-solving elements leaves players longing for more intellectual challenges typically associated with adventure games.

In conclusion, while Free D.C! sets out with an innovative concept and unique visual style, it ultimately fails to deliver a fulfilling gaming experience. The disjointed narrative, unsatisfying combat, and underwhelming writing contribute to the game's lackluster reception. For players seeking a game with a similar artistic approach but with more cohesive gameplay and storytelling, titles like Manhunter: New York or Dreamworks' Neverhood CD-ROM might be more rewarding choices. Despite its ambition, Free D.C! serves as a somber note in Cinemaware's otherwise illustrious history in the gaming industry.