The 2024 reinterpretation of the classic 1992 survival horror game Alone in the Dark reintroduces the original game's iconic duo: Edward Carnby and Emily Hartwood. While Carnby continued to feature in subsequent Alone in the Dark sequels, Hartwood's presence faded after the original game. Pieces Interactive made the bold decision to resurrect Emily's character in the 2024 version, marking her long-awaited return to the Alone in the Dark universe.
The initial Alone in the Dark installment offered separate storylines for players to embody either Emily or Edward in their exploration of the haunted Derceto Manor. In an interview with Game Rant, the team at Pieces Interactive, led by creative director and writer Mikael Hedberg, expressed their collective excitement about reinstating Emily. They believed her ties to the Hartwood family and unique narrative perspective were essential to the franchise.
Emily Hartwood's Vital Role in the Series
Following the first game, Edward Carnby evolved into a seasoned detective well-versed in supernatural phenomena, featuring in multiple Alone in the Dark sequels. Conversely, Emily Hartwood's appearances were limited, with a brief stint as a 'damsel in distress' in Alone in the Dark 3. Despite Carnby's rise as the face of the franchise, Emily remained in obscurity.
According to Mikael Hedberg, the decision to reintroduce Emily garnered immediate team support. Initially planned as the sole protagonist, Edward Carnby was later joined by Emily at Hedberg's suggestion, which was met with enthusiasm:
Emily's presence in Alone in the Dark is pivotal due to her direct connection to Jeremy Hartwood's narrative. In the original storyline, Jeremy's demise led Emily to Derceto Manor, whereas in the 2024 version, his disappearance hints at the ominous 'Hartwood curse.' Driven by a desire to unravel the curse, rescue Jeremy, and unearth Derceto's mysteries before succumbing herself, the reimagined Emily Hartwood emerges as a resilient protagonist determined to break free from the family curse and survive the horrors of Derceto Manor.
Enhanced Experience Through Dual Perspectives
Similar to its predecessor, the revamped 2024 Alone in the Dark offers distinct campaigns for Emily and Edward. Engaging with both viewpoints becomes rewarding as each path presents exclusive cutscenes and levels, culminating in a comprehensive narrative, as noted by THQ Nordic producer Andreas Schmiedecker. Exploring both narratives unlocks hidden endings and special cinematic sequences, enriching the overall gameplay experience.
The technique of storytelling through multiple characters, pioneered by Alone in the Dark, has become a prevalent feature in the survival horror genre. Popular franchises like Resident Evil, various Fatal Frame titles, Until Dawn, and the Dark Pictures Anthology series have embraced this approach. The reintroduction of this storytelling style in the new Alone in the Dark installment, emphasizing Emily's role alongside Carnby, is a delightful nod to genre enthusiasts.