Manhunt - A Masterpiece of Horror
GTA 6 and the remaster of Red Dead Redemption are currently at the top of Rockstar's list, but I want to see more of Manhunt, one of the greatest horror games of all time.
Grand Theft Auto 6, GTA 5, and a remaster of Red Dead Redemption are more than enough for Rockstar to focus on. But as we approach the 20th anniversary of the first game and I play it again, I have a craving for the return of Manhunt. One of the greatest horror games of all time, it's not just scary, but shocking, intelligent, and legitimately dirty.
The Dark World of Manhunt
I've become somewhat cynical and older than before, but I still think Manhunt is truly repulsive. Apart from all the old hype and the reputation that Manhunt has gained as one of the most controversial games of all time, it is still more brutal and nihilistic than any other mainstream release I have seen in my life.
Shockingly Realistic Violence
It's not just the violence. It's the sexualization of violence. It's Lionel Starkweather, the director, whispering in your ear as you crack open a hunter's skull with a hammer.
A Journey into the Heart of Corruption
Manhunt takes us on a journey into the heart of corruption, exploring some of the darkest psychosexual impulses. Your enemies are white supremacists. Your weapons are hatchets, shards of glass, and plastic bags.
The Cold Brutality of the Game
The levels involving the family actually highlight the power of Manhunt the best. In other games, saving them would represent something redemptive. But Manhunt offers none of that. If they die, the game simply continues as if nothing happened.
Nihilism in its Purest Form
In my opinion, the greatest merit of Manhunt is its nihilistic persuasiveness. It may take about four levels to reach the absolute depths of the soul, and then it just keeps digging deeper and deeper and deeper.
Do We Need a Comeback?
That's why I want it back. Video games have evolved over the past 20 years, gaining a broader appeal. But in doing so, they have ceased to be dangerous.
Manhunt 3 may not be coming out, but the release date for GTA 6 is definitely on its way.
