In terms of story and characters, this is probably the series low point. The main plot is painfully generic, and every single time the main characters open their mouths, it's that one-dimensional sarcastic quippy dialogue that just makes me want to reach into the screen and slap the smug off them. However, the platforming - the reason to play PoP in the fist place - is silky smooth and incredibly fun. And wisely, platforming (and exploration) is squarely where this game has its focus. The game world has a branching structure that gives players freedom of choice, and uses collectables to incentivise revisiting areas to find new pathways. Lot of great, great fun. The combat (which actually isn't bad) is de-emphasised compared to previous titles. It has a one-on-one feel that actually seems to call back to the original PoP. It could've done without the QTEs, but like the quippy dialogue, this game is a product of the late 2000s after all.
It's uncanny how much of a turnaround for the series this was. Firstly,. the narrative. Rather than force a continuation from the pre-existing games, S:TWB tells a (mostly) stand-alone story, that focuses and expands on Kate as a character. The dual timeline puts a fresh angle on things, and the writing is a massive step up. Secondly, the production values. This games looks stunning, sounds stunning, and plays beautifully. The voice acting is top-notch, and the European scenery is incredible. But what's the one thing S3 did well? Challenging puzzles. They were often framed poorly, but they were genuinely head-scratching. Oddly enough, this is the one aspect where S:TWB regresses. What we have here is more of a "click to advance" game. A very engaging one, mind. But, it does dim the sense of reward as you progress. If I have one more complaint, it's that Oscar seems to get less dignity with each sequel. Poor old fella.
+ Brimming with creativity and striking visuals + The patients are all great characters + Gameplay forces you to explore, rather than simply walk down corridors + Environments are brilliant. A "mall" is never just a mall. It's full of touches that add to the character and story depth in subtle ways. - "Puzzles" are a joke (find the fuse, find the key, that sort of thing) - Bland main character - Some dramatic notes fall flat
