I Am Alive (Video Game Review)

I Am Alive tells a depressing tale of a man searching for his missing family a year after The Event has nearly destroyed the world. As the man explores his hometown of Haventon in search of his family, we are told a good portion of the game's story through the narrative exploits captured on camera. This was an interesting design choice that really helps the story hit home, as you realize this seemingly ordinary man would do anything to be with his family once again.

A good portion of I Am Alive will task you with strategically planning out fights beforehand and making quick decisions during climatic standoffs. You'll spend the beginning of the game armed with a machete and gun, but the gun will be used more for intimidation factors than actual combat, since bullets are extremely scarce throughout the game. Of course, you'll obtain more weapons as you play through the game including the bow and arrows, which is the tactical weapon of choice when going for undetected, stealth kills. Combat isn't the strongest part of the game, but it does offer up some unique concepts that will definitely become important parts of games in the future. Not all of the characters in the game will be so hostile however.

You'll come across many helpless NPCs that are just hoping you can complete some task for them such as fetching them medical supplies or food. You are rewarded with bonus continues and sometimes extra items when you successfully complete these tasks, but many of these characters seem so genuinely nice that you'll want to complete the tasks for them even if you weren't be rewarded however Moving around the city and completing missions will be a whole other mechanic to master, as most of the city is left in post-apocalyptic ruins after the cataclysmic event. Navigating the remains is challenging and will cost you stamina as you climb, shimmy, jump to make your way through the deadly terrain.

When you've lost enough stamina you'll either have to find a place to rest and regain stamina or consume food to regain stamina; otherwise, you'll probably fall to your death and have to start your climb all over again. Discovering your path through the ruined city is one of the most rewarding feelings the game has to offer, and it is a good enough reason on its own to justify the of purchase the game. I Am Alive is an entertaining game from start to finish. The game utilizes some very unique mechanics while providing an impressive presentation that makes you feel fully immersed in the experience during the entire experience. If you're looking for an excellent downloadable title or even just a great game, look no further than I Am Alive.

Game Features

Single Player

Online Leaderboards

Content Downloads

Achievement Support

Game Information
Developer: Ubisoft Shanghai
Publisher: Ubisoft
Rating: M for Blood, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes & Strong Language
Platforms: Xbox 360 Exclusive  (reviewed)
Release Date: March 7, 2012

Score: 7 out of 10