The Stanley Parable - Maybe you should buy it too.

Alright, have you played the demo or the mod?

What?! You haven't even tried them yet? *Sigh* Go do that...

http://www.stanleyparable.com/ - Free Demo
http://www.moddb.com/mods/the-stanley-parable/ - Free mod (Requires Half-life 2)

Okay, have you tried at least one of them yet? What did you think? Did you like it?

I didn't like it... the ending to the mod sucked...

Um... how many endings? Go play the mod again...

I didn't like it... the humor's not for me...

Then you probably shouldn't get the full game. And stop reading here. You're done.


I loved it! Especially the one ending where...

Excellent. You understand the basic concept. I won't spoil it any further, but here's what the main game has: It's an HD remake of the original mod. If you played the mod, you basically played a good amount of the game so far. And yes, I still think the full game is excellent.

Well, wait... I just played the game for free, then? Why should I buy it?

Because of everything the full game has that the mod didn't! There's quite a few extras, mostly hidden away as Easter Eggs, extended dialogue in areas, extra branching paths, and just a general feel of a well-polished game. This game makes awesome use of Valve's current Source engine (specifically the engine for Portal 2) and it feels like a full game.

The word is 'polish', my friend. This game is very excellently crafted together, with little hidden secrets and extras at every turn. It boasts variety in its playthroughs, and despite the drab office environment setting, I believe it.

But like I said in an earlier review, the game was still only about 4 to 5 hours until you start to get bored from crossing the same few paths again, and start digging through forums, searching for the easter eggs other people have found.

Is it worth the price, then?

Yes. It's a very good idea, and the execution is perfect. Really, the only thing dampening the experience is the short length and the fact that it's a very strict remake of the original mod. The extra pieces added really make it a strong experience though, and I really hope to see more like this idea from Galactic Cafe.

Also, they're having a sale, lowering the price to $12 plus tax... so... if you're on the fence like I was, that might convince you to get it!

http://www.stanleyparable.com/