Under a Killing Moon (PC) Playthrough
4Playthrough of Access Software's 1994 FMV/3D graphic adventure game, Under a Killing Moon.
Under a Killing Moon is a groundbreaking adventure game released in 1994 for MS-DOS, developed by Access Software and starring the wisecracking private detective Tex Murphy. Set in a dystopian, post-World War III San Francisco in the year 2042, the game combines film noir atmosphere with science fiction elements, weaving a story filled with mystery, humor, and danger. The player takes on the role of Tex, a down-on-his-luck private eye who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy involving a doomsday cult, a stolen artifact, and the fate of the world itself.
What set Under a Killing Moon apart from its contemporaries was its ambitious use of full-motion video (FMV) combined with real-time 3D exploration, a rare and impressive feat for its time. Players navigate the world from a first-person perspective, moving through 3D environments and interacting with characters presented through live-action video sequences. The performances, particularly Chris Jones as Tex Murphy, blend humor and charm, creating a distinctive tone that balances comedy with moments of genuine tension. The cast also includes notable actors such as Brian Keith and Margot Kidder, giving the game a cinematic feel that was unusual for mid-90s PC games.
The gameplay mixes classic point-and-click adventure elements with inventory puzzles, dialogue choices, and exploration. Players investigate crime scenes, search for clues, and piece together the mystery through a combination of detective work and interaction with a colorful cast of characters. The game offers multiple difficulty levels, allowing players to choose between a more guided experience or a challenging one that demands keen observation and puzzle-solving skills.
Technically, Under a Killing Moon was a demanding title, requiring a powerful MS-DOS machine of the era to fully appreciate its graphics and video sequences. The game came on four CD-ROMs, a clear sign of its ambitious scope and content. Its atmospheric soundtrack, detailed environments, and witty writing helped it stand out in a crowded adventure game market and earned it praise from both players and critics. Over time, it has become a cult classic, remembered fondly for its innovative design and its contribution to pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling.