Looking Back At PC Gamer's Original 1993 Review Of Beneath a Steel Sky

When Beneath a Steel Sky arrived following two years in development, it marked a sharp tonal shift for Revolution Software. Moving away from the magic and mythology of its 1992 debut, Lure of the Temptress, the developer crafted an oppressive futuristic techno-thriller. The game borrows from the pioneering sci-fi works of Philip K. Dick and William Gibson, mixing elements of Blade Runner and Total Recall with Dave Gibbons' graphic novel Give Me Liberty.

Set in a near-future world where global governments have collapsed, corrupt corporations control the planet. The upper classes retreat underground while the less fortunate live in claustrophobic towers high above the surface. Beyond the city lies The Gap, a desert outland for those refusing to live inside the corporate towers. Players control Robert Foster, a raincoat-clad hero kidnapped by sinister police and left stranded after a helicopter crash in the upper reaches of the city.

Reviewers noted that the game deliberately gives players very little information at the outset. Unravelling the mystery forms a core part of the experience. The title spans around 100 locations, featuring numerous puzzles and a wide cast of characters. A notable gameplay element is Joey, a wise-ass robotic companion who starts as a circuit board and can be plugged into various cybernetic bodies to help perform tasks.

Initial critical reception highlighted a debate over the game's tone and aspirations. While some praised its rich plotting, atmospheric background artwork, and accompanying mini-comic, others found fault with conflicting elements. Critics pointed out that the soundtrack occasionally featured inappropriate themes resembling jolly radio jingles rather than haunting, ominous tracks that matched the dark visuals. Discussions also contrasted its serious narrative style against the humor found in popular LucasArts adventure games of the era.

Despite minor faults and questions regarding its marketing claim as an animated comic book adventure, the title earned praise as a well-constructed entry in the genre. Reviewers concluded that it offered a compelling adventure for dedicated fans, standing as a notable release in early PC gaming history.