D2 is a survival horror video game developed by Warp for the Sega Dreamcast. The game follows Laura Parton, who survives a plane crash in the Canadian wilderness after a terrorist attack and a meteorite strike. As she navigates the harsh environment, Laura encounters mutated creatures and uncovers a sinister conspiracy involving extraterrestrial forces. The narrative unfolds through a combination of real-time exploration and cinematic cutscenes, offering a surreal and atmospheric experience.
D2 was developed by Warp, a Japanese video game company founded by Kenji Eno. Eno also directed and wrote the game, contributing to its distinctive style and narrative approach. The game’s music was composed by Kenji Eno, further enhancing the eerie and immersive atmosphere. In Japan, the game was published by Warp, while in North America, it was published by Sega. D2 was released in Japan on December 23, 1999, and in North America on August 22, 2000.
Gameplay
D2 combines elements of survival horror, first-person shooter, and role-playing games. The majority of the game involves exploring the Canadian wilderness from a third-person perspective, with interior locations encountered in a first-person view. Players engage in random battles reminiscent of RPGs, where Laura cannot move but can aim and shoot her weapons. Defeating enemies earns experience points, increasing Laura’s health limit. Weapons include a submachine gun with unlimited ammunition and a hunting rifle. Additionally, Laura can hunt animals for meat, which she can use to regain health. She also possesses a camera to take pictures during the game, which can be saved to a VMU and viewed later.
Importance in Survival Horror
D2 stands out in the survival horror genre by blending traditional elements with unconventional gameplay mechanics. While it retains the genre’s focus on limited resources and atmospheric tension, it introduces RPG-like progression through experience points and health upgrades. The game’s setting in the Canadian wilderness and its narrative involving extraterrestrial forces add a unique twist to the survival horror formula. Despite its innovative approach, D2 received mixed reviews, with criticism directed at its repetitive gameplay and pacing issues.
Reception vs Historical Context
Upon its release, D2 received “mixed or average” reviews according to the review aggregation website Metacritic. Critics praised the game’s graphics, music, and deep storytelling but criticized the actual gameplay for being repetitive and dull. In Japan, Famitsu gave it a score of 32 out of 40. The game’s unconventional approach and experimental design garnered a cult following, with fans appreciating its unique blend of genres and atmospheric storytelling.
Availability & Collectibility
D2 was released exclusively for the Sega Dreamcast. Original copies of the game are now considered collectibles, with prices varying based on condition and completeness.
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