The two main characters, Anton and Thomas Clerval, are fascinating foils. They are very fleshed out characters which interact with the world nicely. The events in the story are almost always exciting or shocking, if not a little convenient at some times. Most importantly, the themes of the tale are carried with reverence. In a world where the dead can be revived what separates the recently dead from those who have not fallen? In a war can you spare any combatant, even if that person is your own family? Can you trust your own allies, even if they hold different ideals then you? All of these question are explored, but like any good story, it does not force you to accept any one answer. Instead, The Frankenstein Wars uses its medium ingeniously. You make the decision and choose what the two brother’s should believe in. You may not decide some of the game’s larger plot points, but you do get to choose something far more important: the meaning of what these events mean.

Cubus Games have already built a very interesting and diverse portfolio of digital gamebooks. The Frankenstein Wars surpasses even the best of these prior offerings with an impressive story of universal appeal, providing human drama, intense relationships and horrid circumstances with a tangible sense of momentous weight and repercussion to almost every decision. For those desiring greater diversification and fresh experiences in interactive fiction, The Frankenstein Wars should be very high on your purchase list. It’s exciting and dramatic, and deals with themes that touch on common fears regarding scientific advancement and human engineering in a world where politics and power cause men to seek any advantage regardless of the true cost involved.

Overall, The Frankenstein Wars is a well-crafted, dramatic, and engaging narrative experience. While short-session play is possible, I certainly recommend longer periods of gameplay if you can do it, to make the most of the opportunities for immersion. Folks who are often torn between playing games and reading a book will definitely enjoy The Frankenstein Wars, and any fans of historical fiction or gothic horror should undoubtedly head into battle against, or alongside, some Lazarans.

The Frankenstein Wars isn't as complex or expansive as other text adventures, but its unique setting and compelling choices help it stand out within the genre