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Detroit: Become Human

Detroit: Become Human is a 2018 adventure game developed by Quantic Dream and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment. The game was initially released for the PlayStation 4 in May 2018 and later ported to Windows in December 2019 under a license from Sony.

Development and Inspiration

The game is based on Quantic Dream's 2012 technology demonstration called Kara, which starred Valorie Curry. The developers, led by David Cage, conducted extensive research in Detroit, Michigan to create an authentic setting. Cage, who is also known for his work on Heavy Rain and Beyond: Two Souls, completed the game's script over two years. A custom engine was built to enhance the gaming experience, and hundreds of actors were cast for voice acting and motion capture.

Plot and Characters

The narrative of Detroit: Become Human follows three distinct androids: Kara, Connor, and Markus. Kara, played by Valorie Curry, escapes her owner to explore her newfound sentience. Connor, portrayed by Bryan Dechart, is a police model android assigned to hunt down deviant androids. Markus, voiced by Jesse Williams, becomes the leader of the android revolution. Their intertwining stories explore themes of identity, freedom, and what it means to be human.

Reception and Critiques

Upon release, Detroit: Become Human received generally positive reviews. Critics praised its setting, visuals, storytelling, and characters, along with the quality of motion capture and voice acting. The game’s flowchart feature, which visually represents the choices made by players and their consequences, was particularly well-received. However, it faced criticism for its motion controls, perceived mishandling of historical and thematic allegories, and certain aspects of the plot and character development.

Cast and Characters

In addition to Curry, Dechart, and Williams, the game features performances by other notable actors. Clancy Brown portrays Hank Anderson, Connor’s human partner, while Minka Kelly plays North, a key figure in Markus's storyline. Neil Newbon adds depth to the game as Elijah Kamski and Gavin Reed.

Impact

Detroit: Become Human is noted for its emphasis on interactive storytelling, a hallmark of Quantic Dream's game design philosophy. The game's exploration of artificial intelligence and ethical questions has sparked discussions, though it has also faced scrutiny for its allegorical elements.

Related Topics

The game continues to be a significant topic of study and discussion within the realms of video game design and narrative storytelling.