The Angry Video Game Nerd reviews the 1999 Dreamcast game "Seaman," a virtual pet game known for its unique concept and sarcastic, intellectually-stimulating AI. The game, narrated by Leonard Nimoy, requires players to care for a creature that evolves over time, asking personal questions and engaging in philosophical discussions. The Nerd finds the game tedious and mind-numbing at times, but also creative and thought-provoking. As he progresses through the game, he becomes convinced that the true purpose of "Seaman" is to brainwash players and prepare them for a Sega-led world domination, comparing it to a sentient electronic global annihilator.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The narrator is playing a game called Seaman on the Sega Dreamcast console.
2. The game was originally released in Japan in 1999.
3. The game features a voice actor named Leonard Nimoy as the narrator.
4. The game is about raising a creature called Seaman, which is a type of fish.
5. The game requires the player to feed, care for, and interact with Seaman.
6. The game has a complex ecosystem, with Seaman going through different stages of evolution.
7. The game features a microphone, which allows the player to talk to Seaman.
8. Seaman can respond to the player's voice and even ask questions.
9. The game has a unique concept, where the player's interactions with Seaman can affect its behavior and evolution.
10. The game requires patience, as the player must wait for Seaman to evolve and grow.
11. The game has a humorous and sarcastic tone, with Seaman often making witty remarks.
12. The game's manual provides information about the game's backstory and concept.
13. The game features a clock system, which allows the player to set the time and affect the game's progression.
14. The game has a unique way of handling time, where the player can only move forward in time.
15. The game features a wide range of creatures, including Seaman, Gillman, and Podfish.
16. The game has a complex storyline, with Seaman eventually evolving into a Frogman.
17. The game features a theme of virtual reality and the blurring of lines between reality and fantasy.
18. The game's developers were influenced by the concept of virtual pets and the idea of creating a game that simulates real-life interactions.
19. The game was released in the late 1990s, during a time when virtual reality and online gaming were becoming increasingly popular.
20. The game's narrator, Leonard Nimoy, was a well-known actor and director, best known for his role as Mr. Spock in the Star Trek franchise.