When comparing Penumbra: Black Plague Gold Edition vs Manhunt, the Slant community recommends Manhunt for most people. In the question“What are the best horror games for PC?” Manhunt is ranked 16th while Penumbra: Black Plague Gold Edition is ranked 26th. The most important reason people chose Manhunt is:
Actor [Brian Cox](http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004051/) lends his voice to the game through an earpiece in the main characters ear. Often repulsive comments that are convincingly acted well. This adds to the level of polish of the game in that the voice acting is so convincing.
Specs
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Pros
Pro In game physics provide a sense of immersion
Throughout the game the player is tasked with opening doors, rolling barrels, or pulling open drawers, this is done by using certain mouse motions to complete, so say for instance if one wants to open a drawer they need to not only click on it but hold the click while making a pulling motion with the mouse. It is through this realistic portrayal of interaction that allows one to feel immersed in the game environment.
Pro Intuitive puzzles that can be solved realistically
Penumbra offers puzzles in a realistic setting where if one wants to get pas say some oil barrels, the obvious solution is that you can burn them. It is through using puzzles that ask for logical solutions that the game sets itself apart from many puzzle games where solving is not quite so logical.
Pro Great voice acting
Actor Brian Cox lends his voice to the game through an earpiece in the main characters ear. Often repulsive comments that are convincingly acted well. This adds to the level of polish of the game in that the voice acting is so convincing.
Pro Comments on the state of violence in media
While there has been violent games before the release of Manhunt, none had gone so far as to match what is found in some of the more over the top Animes and movies. At the time this game was released it was banned in numerous countries due to the violent decapitations and adult themes, but at its core the game comments on how society enjoys these things (much like the movie Running Man). While simultaneously getting banned the game got free press which lead to many sales. A funny situation in that the game is stating how people enjoy over the top violence through the story, by creating a game with over the top violence that sold well.
Cons
Con Sub-par graphics
While the gameplay itself is pretty good the graphics hold the game back as they look pretty poor.
Con Unrealistic gameplay
Ignoring even the crazy premise of a televised manhunt, the gameplay itself is unrealistic in the sens that this is a stealth game where the second the player gets into the shadow, no one can see him, no matter how close. This may be immersion breaking for some.
Con Steep leaning curve
The game is tough, and only gets tougher. This is a game for the hardcore and it shows, which may not appeal to everyone as it does take a commitment to move forward in this game.