Dead Space is a survival horror video game series created by Visceral Games, formerly known as EA Redwood Shores. It is set in a science fiction universe centered around a mining spaceship called the USG Ishimura, and follows the plight of protagonist Isaac Clarke as he battles the Necromorphs, a reanimated, mutated form of human remains.
In-Game Tropes
Dead Space features a variety of horror-related video game tropes throughout the series. These include:
Alien Geometries: The Necromorphs make use of gravitational anomalies and strange geometry that contravenes the laws of conventional physics.
Alien Non-Interference Clause: Though EarthGov is aware of the Ishimura’s fate, they are unable to intervene due to the legal rules governing space travel.
Alien Invasion: The Necromorphs are an alien species that invades human territory in search of victims.
The Computer Is a Cheating Bastard: AI antagonists in the game are given certain godlike powers that are not accessible to the player.
Real-World Tropes
Dead Space also borrows many real-world horror tropes, such as:
Alien Autopsy: After the Ishimura is discovered abandoned, an autopsy is performed on one of the Necromorphs.
Apocalyptic Log: Onboard the Ishimura, Isaac discovers audio and video logs detailing the passengers’ fate.
Cabin in the Woods: Isaac must traverse a variety of eerie environments and twisted architecture to survive.
Jump Scare: The Necromorphs are adept at utilizing sudden and unexpected appearances to startle players.
Dead Space uses a combination of classic horror tropes and modern story-telling techniques to provide a thrilling survival horror experience. It is an iconic series that has endured thanks to its sickening atmosphere and terrifying antagonists.