Oddworld: Abe's Exoddus - A Classic Adventure

Story

Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus, a sequel to the acclaimed Oddworld: Abe’s Oddysee, brings players back to the dystopian planet of Oddworld, continuing the story of the titular hero, Abe. Released in 1998 for the PlayStation, this game follows Abe, an unlikely hero and Mudokon slave, on a quest to save his fellow Mudokons from the malevolent Glukkons who are exploiting them for profit. The narrative picks up shortly after the events of the first game, where Abe receives a vision from the spirits of his ancestors. They reveal that the Glukkons are not only enslaving Mudokons but are also desecrating their ancestral burial grounds to produce a new addictive drink called SoulStorm Brew, made from the tears of Mudokon slaves.

Driven by this revelation, Abe sets out on a mission to liberate his people and put an end to the Glukkons’ sinister operations. The story of Abe’s Exoddus is one of perseverance and courage, filled with dark humor and poignant moments that highlight the game’s anti-corporate themes. Throughout the game, players guide Abe through various environments, from industrial factories to ancient temples, encountering new allies and enemies along the way. The narrative is richly woven with cutscenes and dialogues that enhance the immersive experience.

Gameplay

Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus expands upon the innovative gameplay mechanics introduced in its predecessor, offering a more refined and complex experience. The game is primarily a 2D puzzle-platformer, where players must navigate Abe through intricate levels filled with traps, enemies, and environmental puzzles. One of the standout features of the game is Abe’s ability to possess enemies using his chanting powers. This mechanic allows players to strategically control Sligs, the armed guards of the Glukkons, to solve puzzles and eliminate threats.

The game introduces several new elements, such as the ability to communicate with other Mudokons using GameSpeak, a system that allows Abe to give commands like “follow me” or “wait.” This mechanic is crucial for leading Mudokons to safety and achieving good endings. Players must also manage Abe’s mood and the emotions of his followers, as scared or angry Mudokons can be uncooperative, adding an extra layer of challenge.

Abe’s Exoddus also features a quicksave function, a highly requested addition that addresses the difficulty spikes of the previous game. This allows players to save their progress at any point, making the game more accessible and less frustrating. Additionally, the game offers a variety of paths and solutions to puzzles, encouraging experimentation and replayability.

Graphics and Sound

Visually, Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus retains the distinctive art style of the Oddworld series, featuring richly detailed pre-rendered backgrounds and fluid character animations. The game’s environments are beautifully crafted, capturing the eerie, industrial aesthetic of the Glukkon factories and the mystical, organic nature of the Mudokon temples. The attention to detail in the design of characters and settings contributes significantly to the game’s immersive atmosphere.

The sound design in Abe’s Exoddus is equally impressive, with a dynamic soundtrack that complements the game’s tone and setting. The music ranges from haunting melodies that underscore the desolate factory environments to more uplifting tunes that accompany moments of triumph. Sound effects are meticulously crafted, enhancing the realism of the world and the actions within it. Voice acting adds a layer of personality to the characters, with Abe’s iconic voice and the quirky sounds of the Mudokons adding charm to the experience.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus was met with critical acclaim, praised for its engaging story, innovative gameplay, and unique art style. It was lauded as a worthy successor to Abe’s Oddysee, cementing the Oddworld series as a staple of the platforming genre. Critics highlighted the game’s improved mechanics, such as the quicksave feature and expanded GameSpeak, as significant enhancements that addressed player feedback from the first game.

Abe’s Exoddus also received accolades for its storytelling, which skillfully blends humor and social commentary. The game’s narrative tackles themes of corporate greed and environmental exploitation, resonating with audiences and contributing to its lasting impact. This installment of the Oddworld series was nominated for several awards and continues to be celebrated as one of the standout titles of the late 1990s.

The game has also seen multiple re-releases on various platforms, including the PlayStation Network and Steam, allowing new generations of players to experience Abe’s adventures. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Oddworld titles and in the broader landscape of puzzle-platformers, inspiring developers to explore similar themes and mechanics.

Conclusion

Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus remains a beloved classic in the world of video games, celebrated for its compelling story, innovative gameplay, and unique artistic vision. Its impact on the gaming industry is undeniable, as it pushed the boundaries of what platformers could achieve in terms of narrative depth and player engagement. The game’s legacy endures through its continued availability on modern platforms and its influence on future titles within the genre. Abe’s journey to save his fellow Mudokons is a testament to the power of storytelling in games, and Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus stands as a shining example of how video games can captivate and inspire players around the world.