Ok, here we go. (This is for the US version)

Into/Opening Sequence: Short video before the title screen, not too
interesting. There's more video after you choose your character, it
explains the story and setting, etc. The video is pretty good quality,
but as I said before, the acting is half-hearted. Some of the
character's screams aren't convincing at all.

Title Screen/Options/Etc: The title screen provides you with two
selections; New Game or Load Game. Simple as that. You can, however,
change options during the game. You can select one of three preset
configurations for the controller, or edit your own. The sound options
are just Stereo or Mono, no FX/Music volume settings.

Graphics: Yowza! Your character is a polygon soldier, not too
detailed, but its just about right. The backgrounds are reeeaal purdy
though. They're all pre-rendered, almost Myst-ish. The whole thing is
VERY reminiscent (sp?) of Alone in the Dark. 

Enemies: I've only seen about uh, about five zombies (or whatever you
wanna call em) and there seems to be about three types. All of em are
scary as hell when you first see em. I won't spoil it too much, just
rent the damn game :) ...Oh yeah, they just GUSH blood! And that's RED
blood too.

Gameplay/Control: Again, similar to Alone in the Dark. D-pad is used
to turn, walk forward and back, etc. One button (default is X) is a
multipurpose action button: Look at/Pick up/Attack/Open/Etc.
Another button (default is Square) is used to run, you hold it down
and move, you know the drill. The last button (Def. R1) is used to
ready your weapon. You hold it, aim, and press X to hit/fire/etc.
You can hit high or low, by holding up or down, respectively. 
I'm surmising you can aim low to blow the zombies' heads off while
they're on the ground (Disturbing giggle) :) 
They did a nice job, IMO, of the controls. They're not too complex,
and don't take long at all to get used to.

SoundFX/Music: At first, I didn't notice any music, but when it's
there, its perfect. Adds to the mood very nicely. The FX are also
pretty good. The beretta (sp?) sound isn't particularly satisfying,
but it's not a big deal. In some places, such as the dining hall,
there isn't any music, but there's the constant ticking of a clock.
Even just that is enough to send shivers up your spine.

Atmosphere/Mood: Excellent. Try playing this one in an empty house,
late at night with the lights off, and the volume up. 

Overall: I've got a feeling this will keep me busy for some time. At
least at first glance, it seems like a game with lots of potential
(did I just contradict myself?). Everyone who enjoyed AITD should
check this one out. 

I'll play this for a few more days, and will be able to add to this,
and maybe rate the categories.

--

Get back in the cupboard you pantomimetic royal person

beowulf@unix.infoserve.net