During its latest State of Play presentation, Sony announced that Dino Crisis will soon be added to the PlayStation Plus Classics catalog. Originally launched in 1999, the game emerged at a time when both dinosaurs and survival horror were gaining popularity, largely due to the impact of Jurassic Park and Resident Evil.
While Dino Crisis has earned a notable reputation, many gamers may recognize its name without having had the opportunity to play it. This announcement is an exciting development, offering a chance to revisit a classic that has largely faded from view, albeit through a port rather than a full remake.
The premise of Dino Crisis centers on a special operations team sent to a mysterious island to find a rogue scientist. Instead of encountering their target, they face terrifying threats: Velociraptors and a Tyrannosaurus Rex that have overrun the island.
The game has a playful narrative style, humorously attributing the dinosaurs’ presence to a “rift in time and space.” While this explanation might raise eyebrows, the immersive atmosphere and gruesome visuals quickly compensate for any narrative flaws, crafting a thrilling experience for players.
Critically, Dino Crisis is often compared to Resident Evil due to its similar horror tone and shared director, Shinji Mikami. However, rather than merely replacing zombies with dinosaurs, the game explores new forms of fear.
Mikami’s passion for dinosaurs is evident as he introduces unique challenges that evoke different types of terror. This innovative approach distinguishes Dino Crisis from other survival horror titles, making it a memorable entry in the genre.
Despite its strengths, Dino Crisis is not without its outdated mechanics, particularly the infamous “tank controls.” This control scheme was common in many games of the ’90s, and while it heightened the horror atmosphere, it may frustrate modern players who expect more responsive controls.
Maneuvering effectively during tense dinosaur encounters can feel cumbersome, which may detract from the overall enjoyment for some players. This aspect could hinder newcomers from fully engaging with the game’s intense environment.
Even after two decades without a new title, Dino Crisis continues to hold a special place in gaming culture. The recent rise of interest in dinosaur-themed games, ranging from major studio efforts to indie projects, showcases the enduring appeal of such titles.
Although this port may not signal a full revival of the franchise, it provides an opportunity for a new generation to discover the unique blend of tension and excitement that Dino Crisis offers. The game’s unforgettable atmosphere remains compelling, making it an excellent choice for those eager to experience a thrilling chase from a relentless T-Rex.
