Limbo
- August 4th, 2010
- By lexicon
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lim*bo | limbo {noun} – an uncertain period of awaiting a decision or resolution; an intermediate state or condition
It is a place many of us learned to fear as children, never truly knowing why. Now we think of limbo as a dark place that is quiet and forever. Everything happens in limbo, but nothing changes. It is the worst state of mind. It is the worst place to ever be. But now, Playdead is sending you there.
I started playing Limbo on xBox with my buddy Matt. It’s an excellent co-operative game experience. When I take a wrong turn and get crushed, Matt takes over. While he’s in control making evolved versions of my own mistakes, I’m free to observe and develop my next strategy. Puzzles, it turns out, are what this game is all about. But they are dark and cryptically evil. And they are not easy.
There are a few traps in the beginning. Not an incredibly high learning curve. The game tricks you into thinking it’s going to be an easy ride. Just don’t fall for it. Pay attention. Keep your eyes open and be precise. You can be as smart as you like (and you’ll need to be) but if you have slow fingers, you’re out.
The game frankly gives me chills. It frustrates me to no end, but I find myself addicted anyway. Would I play alone? – Not a chance. Would I play again – Well, I’m practically playing right now.
-lex