Verdict: 7/10
Hidden Agenda is an adventure game that is a part of Sony’s PlayLink program. As such, it can only be played by connecting your smartphone to the PS4. It is meant to be a party game that can be played with up to 3 other players.
Developed by Until Dawn creator Supermassive Games, Hidden Agenda is a thriller in which your primary means of interaction is swiping the touch screen on your phone. You will be constantly making choices, which can be accomplished by swiping in their general direction. There are some QTEs and sequences where you must locate three objects before the timer runs out, but they all utilise the same mechanic.
You will be mostly playing as Becky Marney, a detective who is trying to figure out the identity of a serial killer named The Trapper. It lasts for about two hours and the story, as well as themes presented are dark and gruesome. While I was interested in the tale, Hidden Agenda is a victim of its own format.
Since it is made to be finished in a single sitting, it could not exceed a certain playtime limit. But the game tries to unsuccessfully deal with heavy subjects and portray complex characters in that short period of time. You are never given a chance to bond with any of the characters since it moves at such a fast pace. The characters are always shown in their vulnerable state, making it hard to relate to them while the ending is not satisfying.
Nevertheless the concept of the game works well. Since it is entirely choice driven, there are several instances where entire sections cannot be accessed because you chose a different option. It is indeed possible to completely fail in your objective, as my play through ended with Marney getting killed and The Trapper getting away.
Just like Until Dawn, the relationships you build with other characters play a key role. As an example, I decided to spend time with a certain character, which later on gave me an airtight alibi for a murder that was taking place at the same time.
Hidden Agenda is gripping and well worth your time, but it is not without several faults. The story and characters are underdeveloped, and it tries to force too many complex themes into a single session. Nevertheless, upon finishing it I immediately wanted to go back and play it again. But at this moment, the price point is far too much for what it offers.
