CyberMage: Darklight Awakening
| Company type | Video game |
|---|---|
| Industry | Video games |
| Founded | 1995 |
| Founder | David W. Bradley |
| Products | CyberMage: Darklight Awakening |
| Parent | Origin Systems |
CyberMage: Darklight Awakening is a cyberpunk first-person shooter incorporating RPG mechanics, created by David W. Bradley. Released in 1995 by Electronic Arts and developed by Origin Systems, the title is distinguished by its moody and immersive setting.
Plot
Taking place in the year 2044, the narrative unfolds in a society ruled by powerful corporations and opposed by insurgent anti-corporate factions. These corporations produce implant technologies that result in human-cybernetic hybrids amid ongoing conflict and competition.
The main character regains consciousness inside a bio-genesis chamber, clad in an unusual suit featuring a gem embedded in his forehead known as the Darklight, which serves as a source of mystical energy. After fleeing the scene following a violent encounter, he uncovers that SARCorp subjected him to experimental procedures and embarks on a quest for vengeance.
Development
The game was conceived by designer David W. Bradley as an opportunity to experiment with 3D graphics technology.
Reception
CyberMage garnered varied critical responses. Computer Game Review awarded it scores of 70/61/62. Jeffrey Adam from GameSpot gave it a 76/100 rating, commending its tactical incorporation of vehicles and power-ups that differentiated it from standard Doom imitators. Next Generation rated it 3 out of 5 stars, recognizing its visual presentation, audio design, and plot while commenting that it lacked distinction among first-person shooters. Martin E. Cirulis of Computer Gaming World assigned a 3.5/5 star rating, describing it as an entertaining action experience that did not fully utilize its comic book aesthetic. PC Magazine considered the game enjoyable but criticized its control scheme.
External links
- Articles with short description
- 1995 video games
- Cyberpunk video games
- DOS games
- DOS-only games
- Electronic Arts games
- Fiction set in 2044
- First-person shooters
- Origin Systems games
- Single-player video games
- Sprite-based first-person shooters
- Video games designed by Harvey Smith
- Video games developed in the United States
- Video games produced by Warren Spector
- Video games set in the 2040s
- Video games with 2.5D graphics