Alice: Madness Returns
PlayStation 3 review by Michael Siebenaler
Based on Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” novels, the PlayStation 3 third-person fighter/platform game “Alice: Madness Returns” (Electronic Arts) is a highly artistic interactive adventure. Released 10 years after the previous game, “American McGee’s Alice,” the story events in “Madness Returns” take place immediately after the end of “McGee’s Alice.” Players get a free download code for “Alice,” originally released on PC in 2000. Players can also purchase the game for $9.99 on PlayStation Network or 800 XBox Live points.
The rich environments and amazing level designs, especially the Hatter’s, create an incredible escapist experience. The March Hare, Dormouse, Hatter, Dodos, Mock Turtle, Caterpillar, Walrus, Red Queen, Executioner, and the Carpenter all factor into the Wonderland world as Alice switches between this fantastic world and the real world while trying to remember an unfortunate family tragedy.
The combat is graphic at times, but the psychological elements and thrills from the plot help define this memorable game. This more mature Alice yields blades, bombs, pepper gun, a hobbyhorse, and a teapot plus a handy lock on system. When Alice reaches low health levels, the action ramps up even more with a special Hysteria mode, which initiates a special sequence.
The satisfying and challenging gameplay does become a bit repetitive at times, but still offers intrigue and surprises at every corner. Shrinking abilities and dodging help Alice avoid enemies while umbrellas and other objects provide some defense. Character movements are amazingly smooth as the spacious environments offers seemingly impossible space gaps until players master the jumping and floating abilities where timing matters more than repetitive button mashing.
Players can always find their way thanks to several checkpoints and some helpful camera pans at upcoming areas, which are easily distinguishable in the lavish settings. Exploration, puzzles, special mini games, collectibles, and hidden areas also factor into the satisfying, macabre themed gameplay. The musical score, unique weapons, smooth controls, and epic action sequences amaze (***1/2 out of four stars, rated M, also available on PC and Xbox 360).
