A robust physics system bolsters the puzzle elements substantially, and all the challenges are cunningly tied in directly to what's happening in the game. Solving environmental conundrums is largely an intuitive process. A few of the challenges are particularly sneaky, but they're all solvable with a little gumption and trial and error. It's great to be able to stimulate your brain with explorative problem solving without getting so frustrated you have to resort to a walkthrough every few minutes.

There's also a very strong platforming element to the game, which translates well into the first-person perspective gameplay. Jumping across moving platforms, climbing ladders, swimming in sewage, and running around through the maze-like levels takes up a sizeable portion of your time. It's a pleasant contrast to adventure games that typically contain little-to-no action whatsoever. All the level designs are thoughtfully laid out and integrated into the puzzles you'll face along the way. The developers clearly had fun with concocting unusual passages and bizarre traps to impede players' progress. One area particularly worth mention resembles the zig-zagging sloped platforms found in Donkey Kong. There are even rolling burning barrels and ladders to climb - it's a playful visual reference that's simply too blatant to have been a coincidence.

Most locations are bathed in near-total darkness, and you'll resort to wielding a flashlight or glowstick most of the time to aid in exploration. While atmospherically fitting, this doesn't hide the fact little effort has gone into improving the drably detailed graphics. The various elements strewn about each level look good at a distance, yet they become horribly pixilated as you approach for closer inspection. Considering the major lack of extraneous light all but forces you to get up close with your flashlight to see anything, you'd think making sure objects look crisp and detailed would have been a high priority.

At a reasonable price of $20, Black Plague is a short but fulfilling sequel. For $10 more, Requiem is a solid add-on expansion that offers a more puzzle-oriented twist on the series' interesting blend of gameplay and extends the adventure by a few hours. It's a decent way to wrap up the Penumbra series, even if it isn't the full third installment in what was once promised to be a dark and intriguing trilogy.

By Nathan Meunier
CCC Staff Contributor