Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Obsidian offers a predominantly linear adventure experience that centers around intricate puzzles and thoughtful exploration. Drawing heavy inspiration from the classic Myst series, each environment unfolds as a self-contained sphere of clues, levers, and devices waiting to be decoded. Players will find themselves scrutinizing every corner of a room for subtle visual cues or cryptic notes that hint at the next puzzle solution.

The game’s flow is intentionally measured, encouraging a methodical approach rather than rapid progression. While some may find the pacing slow, this deliberate tempo allows the narrative’s nanotechnology and artificial intelligence themes to simmer in the background, giving puzzles greater narrative weight. If you ever feel stuck, the bundled strategy guide does more than just hand you answers—it provides context on the basics of nanotech and AI, helping newcomers make sense of the more technical riddles.

Controls are straightforward and rely on a point-and-click interface typical of mid-’90s CD-based adventures. Inventory management is minimal—tools and notes are cataloged in an on-screen menu—so your attention remains squarely on the environment. The absence of timed challenges or real-time hazards lets you tackle each brain-teaser at your own pace, making Obsidian a welcoming choice for players who appreciate cerebral engagement over twitch reflexes.

Graphics

Given its release on five CDs, Obsidian leverages pre-rendered backgrounds and full-motion video sequences to create richly detailed settings. Each vista—from sterile research labs to lush alien landscapes—feels deliberately crafted, with high-resolution panoramas that invite close inspection. Although the visuals can feel dated by today’s standards, they still carry a distinct charm and showcase the era’s ambition in using multimedia assets.

Color palettes shift dramatically between chapters to reflect changes in atmosphere: cool blues and metallic grays dominate the technological hubs, while warmer earth tones and organic textures emerge in more natural locales. The transitions between these environments are smooth, aided by brief video interludes that underscore narrative beats. It’s a visual treat for fans of ’90s adventure games, even if modern players might long for higher frame rates or dynamic lighting.

Character animation is sparse—Obsidian prioritizes environmental storytelling over avatar-driven scenes. You won’t see expressive protagonists or elaborate cutscenes; instead, the game relies on immersive sound design and ambient effects to breathe life into each area. This minimalistic presentation places the spotlight firmly on the puzzles and the underlying scientific concepts, reinforcing the sense that you’re uncovering hidden secrets one discovery at a time.

Story

At its core, Obsidian weaves a Myst-influenced narrative that explores the implications of nanotechnology and artificial intelligence run amok. You step into the shoes of a lone investigator tasked with unraveling the corporate machinations behind a breakthrough in self-replicating nanites. As you progress, diary entries, audio logs, and environmental clues paint a picture of ambition, hubris, and ethical quandaries.

The story unfolds gradually, with each puzzle revealing another layer of the plot. You’ll piece together research memos on nanomachine behavior or overhear snippets of AI dialogues that hint at an emergent consciousness. By the time you reach the finale, the game has built a solid case for reflecting on the moral dimensions of cutting-edge science, making the climax feel earned rather than tacked on.

Although the narrative rarely breaks for lengthy dialogue sequences, its pacing feels appropriate for a puzzle-driven adventure. The lack of spoken characters can sometimes make the world feel empty, but this sparseness also adds to the mystery, leaving you to fill in gaps with your own curiosity. If you relish indirect storytelling and enjoy piecing together lore from scattered fragments, Obsidian’s narrative design will reward close attention.

Overall Experience

Obsidian stands as a testament to the golden age of CD-based adventure gaming. Its blend of cerebral puzzles, thought-provoking themes, and meticulously crafted environments offers a satisfying journey for players who prefer slow-burn mysteries to high-octane action. Fans of Myst and other puzzle adventures will feel right at home, while newcomers to the genre will appreciate the included strategy guide’s clear explanations.

That said, Obsidian’s linearity and dated visuals may not appeal to everyone. Those seeking branching story paths or modern graphical fidelity might find it lacking. However, if you can embrace its deliberate pace and afford yourself the time to study each screen in detail, you’ll uncover a richly layered experience that still holds up decades later.

Ultimately, Obsidian is best approached as an interactive science primer wrapped in a puzzle shell. Its exploration of nanotechnology and AI—enhanced by the companion guide—offers genuine educational value alongside its entertainment credentials. For players eager to engage both their intellect and imagination, Obsidian remains a worthy addition to any adventure game library.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10