Created by Polish studio, People can Fly and published by Dreamcatcher, Painkiller is best described as a fast-paced, first-person horror shooter. From what we have seen so far the game has been created with the classic FPS games, especially Doom and Serious Sam, in mind but with an intense desire to create an original adrenaline-fueled experience. To call Painkiller a sleeper hit would be unjust since the game definitely has the pedigree to become as big as any other title. The game however, has gained a lot of publicity by doing something most big-time titles have not been able to achieve; by being on-time. The delays and variety of problems which have plagued big FPS games like Doom 3 and Half-Life 2, have helped Painkiller and its publisher hog the gaming industry's limelight. Having written that, you have to consider that it still isn't plain sailing for Daniel Garner, since competition will be strong with games like Far Cry and UT 2004 on the way, an indication of how strong and competitive the market has become.
Although Painkiller focuses on twitching trigger-fingers and overall mayhem, what really adds to the experience is the eerie backdrop, against which this theatre of the after-life performs. There is a clear gothic element throughout the game which is backed up by chanting sound effects and creepy music, creating an intense and gripping atmosphere which makes it all work. Although Painkiller does not profess to contain an extremely intricate plot or character build-up, it manages to blend the hectic action, the story, environments and characters into an explosive mixture which drives the gamer on and on and on... Every aspect of the game gels so well with all other elements that you instantly know that the developers got the chemistry just right.
Painkiller will become available on April 12, 2004.
Story
You play as Daniel Garner, a seemingly regular guy, who has just been killed in an horrific car accident. Trapped between heaven and hell you struggle to find out why you've been denied entry into heaven. Awaiting your purification, you have to fight your way through a horde of demon soldiers in order to prevent an unholy war.
Read on to find out what Painkiller has going for it under the hood.
