GM Edge

Few games made with Game Maker attempt to set a mood, even fewer create a mood that makes the game itself worth playing. One of these unsung few, is The Black Clock by Max Robertson.

From the start of the game, you are thrown into a dark, somewhat depressing world. Obviously inspired by ‘The Ring’ and other grim tales, the game takes on a black and white setting inside a film reel where you play as a boy trapped in the reel itself. The overall story isn’t all that clear, as it is releaved through tid bits of flashing text and outbursts of random silhouettes and outlines of mansion residents. From what I was able to acquire, it has something to do with a mansion being torn down or rebuilt. Which ever is creepier.

The graphics are without a doubt, the most striking feature of the game. Robertson hand drew all of the in game graphics with the exception of a few player sprites. Rather than adding a photo shop effect or pixeling film grain, he gets the point across with almost Tim Burton style ink drawings. The sounds, although very real sounding, compliment the whacky drawings very nicely. The screams of little girls and house wives haunt to this day. If anything, the sounds themselves are the most frightening part of this game.

Another odd thing about this game, although its a horror game with no goal whatsoever, there seems to be very little violence involved. So hats off to you, Robertson, for making me jump a little out of my seat without the ol’ head in a box trick. Innovation at its finest indeed.

I won’t spoil anymore for you. The Black Clock is more of an experiment than a game (which probably explains why it was so short). I reccomend playing it if you’re a fan of exploration games.

GMC TOPIC LINK TO “THE BLACK CLOCK”
 
This game earns itself a solid 3 out of 5.