The Bunker

If you were trying to convince your past self as to why FMV games would have a miniature comeback, The Bunker probably wouldn’t be the best example to use. After all, it’s clear that emphasis was placed on telling a compelling story over gameplay. But compelling it is indeed, so for some it may easily be possible to overlook any shortcomings concerning challenge and controls in favor of a truly chilling tale about a life after the end.

If you've got an afternoon then there are worse ways to spend it than locking yourself in The Bunker with John. You might need a cup of tea and a walk afterwards, though.

Through the majority of its running time, The Bunker provides a tense ride that those looking for brisk horror experience may genuinely enjoy, though repeated trips back into its post-apocalyptic world may not be quite as fresh or horrific as the first time.

Fans of the narrative genre will enjoy The Bunker, but there really isn’t much of a reason to go back once it’s over.

While The Bunker is a rather straightforward adventure game, its FMV trappings are enough for it to stick out from the crowd. It’s proof that full-motion video doesn’t have to be campy in order to succeed, and can be just as viable as any other form of animation for the right type of game. Check it out if you’re looking to experience a solid story, and play something a bit different.

Despite my initial impressions, I really enjoyed The Bunker. I’m never going to play it again, but for the couple of hours it lasted it held my attention and expertly racked up the tension. It is certainly not for everyone, but it entertained me for it’s duration and you can’t really ask much more than that. Grab your significant other and some popcorn and The Bunker will make a great evening’s viewing.

The Bunker proves a fascinating and at times overwhelming experience. From a narrative and thematic point of view it's both uniquely superb, supported by the brilliant performances of a formidable cast and an ambitious and intriguing directing style. From the gameplay point of view, however, it brings with it many questions and an element of doubt.

As the industry gears up for another bumper holiday season, The Bunker offers something a little different. It doesn't attempt to give you a bulk of gameplay or mechanics, but it makes up for this and more in its plot and characters. Don't let this experience pass you by if you're looking for an interesting and superb story, because we think this is the FMV genre at its very best.

Full of mystery and intrigue, this is a remarkable effort at an interactive movie, which works well enough for another attempt at creating a live action video game. This is a gripping movie, and although short, fans of the horror genre looking for something different need to check this out and experience the unforgettable tale of John in The Bunker.

Showcasing a clever narrative steeped in great performances and anchored by a real sense of place, The Bunker sadly doesn't last long enough or offer sufficient incentive to return to its titular subterranean dwelling once the credits roll on this interactivity-light adventure.