You are embarking on an unexpectedly heartwarming journey in Ironwood Studios' debut game "Pacific Drive," a survival game with a unique twist. Set in the heart of the mysterious Pacific Northwest, you will experience a story that delves deep into fiction but captivates with its attention to detail.
The Story behind Pacific Drive
The game begins in 1947, when the Olympic Peninsula became the setting for a "promising new technology." Stories of nighttime evacuations, mysterious disappearances, and "unnatural encounters" pique curiosity. Nearly a decade later, a portion of the area was declared an exclusion zone, remaining inaccessible for the next 30 years. This fictional zone is the centerpiece of the game, and as the player, you embark on your journey in 1998 armed only with a clipboard and vague delivery instructions.
The First Experience in Pacific Drive
Throughout the first two story missions that I was able to play in the preview, it quickly becomes clear that Pacific Drive is more than just a simple survival game. Your journey begins south of the barrier wall. The initial steps in the game include a tutorial that teaches you the basics of driving under challenging conditions – from using the windshield wipers to parking correctly.
An Introduction to the Exclusion Zone
The game takes a dramatic turn as you dive into the Olympic Exclusion Zone itself. Here, you encounter Tobias Barlow, a voice over the intercom who guides you through the zone. He and his colleague, Francis Cooke, are in a different sector and can only give you instructions via radio. This element of isolation and unknown contact gives the game a unique atmosphere.
Characters and Interactions
Tobias and Francis are not the only characters you meet. Another key figure is Dr. Ophelia Turner, also known as Oppy. She is the owner of a car workshop in the zone, and your first encounter with her is tense. However, it quickly becomes clear that she plays an important role in your survival.
The Significance of the Characters
The characters in "Pacific Drive" are more than just tutorial voices; they are your only contact in an otherwise abandoned world. Their stories and backgrounds give the game a depth that goes beyond mere survival.
Conclusion
"Pacific Drive" promises to be a captivating experience that immerses you in a world full of secrets and surprises. The combination of survival gameplay, atmospheric storytelling, and interesting characters makes it a game you shouldn't miss. While we wait for the release date, it's worth considering the other best horror and story games for PC. "Pacific Drive" will surely take you on an unforgettable journey.
