Timeline

Synopsis

by T.J. Deci

Author Michael Crichton extends his pop culture influence to the arena of gaming with Timeline, the first release from Crichton's Timeline Computer Entertainment software development company. Based very closely on the Crichton novel of the same name, Timeline invites the player to explore a mystery that took place over 600 years ago.

The story begins in our near future as scientists discover a way to travel back through time. Using this miraculous technology, a group of academics returns to 14th century France to research the culture of that era. Unfortunately one of these scientists, Professor Edward Johnston, does not return from this mission. The only evidence of his disappearance is a 600-year-old note in his handwriting, discovered in modern-day France.

Taking on the role of graduate student Christopher Hughes, players step back through time to look for the missing professor. The game boasts detailed 3D environments featuring huge castles and other architecture authentic to the time period. While some fighting may be necessary to move the mission forward, no one is ever killed as this could disrupt the timeline and might have disastrous consequences for the future 21st century that Chris Hughes calls home.

Though there is some action involved, the developers wanted to create a game that did not require the hand-eye coordination of a twelve-year old PlayStation master - they wanted a game that would challenge everyone, but that anyone could sit down and eventually finish. The main focus of the game is on puzzle solving.

Michael Crichton was a regular consultant on the project from the beginning, so fans of his work should feel right at home in this game. Those who have not read the book can still look forward to the chance to solve a 600-year-old mystery, first-hand.