Parasite Eve II

"Parasite Eve II" is not a book by Dan Birlew; it is a video game developed by Squaresoft (now Square Enix) and released in 1999 for the PlayStation. Here is a comprehensive overview of the game:

Key Themes

• Science and Ethics: The game explores themes of scientific ethics, particularly in the context of genetic engineering and the creation of Artificial Neo-Mitochondrial Creatures (ANMCs).
• Humanity and Identity: It delves into questions about what it means to be human and the implications of creating new forms of life.
• Conspiracy and Control: The game is set against a backdrop of a government conspiracy involving the organization MIST, which seeks to control and manipulate humanity through the creation of ANMCs.

Plot Summary

The game follows Aya Brea, a police officer who is investigating a series of mysterious events. She soon discovers that she has a unique connection to the events due to her own genetic material being used in the creation of the ANMCs. Aya's journey takes her through various locations, including the Shelter, an underground facility where the ANMCs are being created, and the Neo Ark, a zoo-like artificial construction where the creatures are being kept.

Aya learns that the Second Neoteny Plan aims to create a massive cocoon containing an ANMC that will generate a vector virus to transform the human race into ANMCs. She also encounters Eve, a clone of herself created to be the final key to the plan. The game culminates in Aya's efforts to stop the conspiracy and rescue Eve from the clutches of No. 9, a cyborg-ANMC hybrid who serves as the primary antagonist.

Critical Reception

Mixed Reviews: The game received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its storytelling and the expansion of the Parasite Eve universe, while others criticized its similarities to Resident Evil and the lack of character development.

Gameplay and Mechanics: The game's unique blend of survival horror and RPG elements was noted, with some critics praising the rearranged fighting system and the removal of traditional RPG elements like levels and armor.

Controversy: The game is somewhat controversial among fans due to its increased inspiration from Resident Evil, which some felt overshadowed the original's unique elements.

Overall, "Parasite Eve II" is a game that explores complex themes through a narrative that builds upon the original while introducing new elements. While it received mixed reviews, it remains an interesting entry in the survival horror genre.