In a gaming landscape saturated with intricate narratives and sprawling open worlds, Unknown 9: Awakening made an intriguing promise: a deeply immersive story-driven experience that blends mystery, supernatural elements, and exploration. But does it live up to the hype, or does it stumble on its path to greatness?
The Premise: A World Beyond Reality
The game introduces Haroona, a young woman from Kolkata who discovers she possesses supernatural abilities that allow her to interact with a hidden dimension. This premise, tied to the overarching lore of the Unknown 9 universe (spanning books, podcasts, and comics), is undoubtedly rich and layered. However, jumping into Awakening without prior knowledge of the broader universe might leave newcomers feeling alienated.
That said, the opening sequences are captivating, immersing players in Haroona’s life and struggles. Her journey from street-level survival to uncovering a larger, enigmatic world is a powerful narrative hook. But as the story progresses, the game’s reliance on cryptic exposition and scattered lore dumps sometimes dilutes the impact of its initial intrigue.
Gameplay: A Mixed Bag
Unknown 9: Awakening is best described as a puzzle-adventure game with light platforming elements. Haroona’s supernatural abilities play a central role, allowing players to manipulate time and reality to solve puzzles or avoid danger. These mechanics are genuinely clever, offering moments of brilliance where players feel truly connected to her powers.
However, the game’s pacing can feel uneven. Some puzzles overstay their welcome with repetitive mechanics, while others are so obtuse that they disrupt the narrative flow. Additionally, the stealth segments, while tense, feel undercooked, with inconsistent AI behavior that can lead to frustrating trial-and-error gameplay.
Visuals and Sound: Immersive, but Not Groundbreaking
Visually, the game strikes a balance between gritty realism and ethereal surrealism. Kolkata’s depiction feels authentic, brimming with life and cultural detail. Contrastingly, the “Fold”—the hidden dimension Haroona accesses—exudes a dreamlike quality that adds a sense of wonder. However, while the art direction shines, the graphical fidelity occasionally falters, with textures and animations that don’t quite match current-gen expectations.
The sound design is a standout. From the bustling streets to the haunting ambiance of the Fold, the audio landscape enhances the experience. The voice acting, especially Haroona’s, adds emotional weight to key moments, even when the script feels uneven.
Verdict: A Journey Worth Taking – With Patience
Unknown 9: Awakening is ambitious and brimming with potential. It dares to weave a complex narrative while introducing gameplay mechanics that feel fresh, even if they’re unevenly executed. For gamers who value story over gameplay or those already invested in the Unknown 9 universe, this game is a must-play. But for those looking for polished mechanics and a more accessible narrative, it might feel like an acquired taste.
As a debut title from Reflector Entertainment, Unknown 9: Awakening showcases promise. If the developers can refine the formula in future entries, Haroona’s story might become a pillar of narrative-driven gaming. For now, it’s an intriguing—but imperfect—first step.
Score: 7/10
Muzhameer Putra
Muhammad Hariz