Alone in the Dark was both ambitious in scope and narrative as it focused on Central Park being that of a demonic prison rather than a lush greenery for rest and relaxation. The brisk pacing, sweeping music, ever-shifting game types (shooter, driving, puzzle, horror, etc.), detailed graphics, episodic story structure and explosive set-pieces made for an incredibly determined experience. However, like the numerous apartments during the game's outset, Alone in the Dark's ideas simply couldn't support themselves and crumbled under the weight of their own ineptitude. The controls were haphazardly implemented as a means to make the player feel more immersed in the apocalyptic world. Instead of allowing a single button press to attack, players were forced to use the analog sticks to swing at ravenous enemies. This became increasingly obnoxious when beset by numerous beasties and obstacles which had to be destroyed by pulling back on the stick before thrusting it forward at awkward angles. And speaking of antagonists, the only way to kill them was through fire...which had to be crafted via lighters, tape, batteries, and several other objects. Out of flaming weapons? Well, the only way to make more is by looking down at your coat and selecting the proper items to combine from inside each pocket. The problem? This doesn't pause the game. Thus, all last-second customisations have to be done in the heat of the moment. Beyond poor gameplay choices, the biggest problem herein are the bugs which constantly make a pigsty of what's already a mess. Oftentimes, set-pieces will either fail to occur which prevents the player from proceeding, or they'll occur too early or simply at random, initiating an instant death for our sorry protagonist. If players were lucky enough to push past all of the flagrant errors, they'd be gifted with a terribly brief and terribly anti-climactic finish which negated the entire conquest of Edward Carnby.