Stone500: I had heard of this game a long time ago. It was listed in a very old Top Horror Games list somewhere, and it always peaked my interest way back when. Kind of gives me a 7th Guest vibe.
I'm sure these days it's just cheesy as hell, but it still looked interesting. I heard the thing came on 6 CD's or something. Anyone play it?
It got mediocre reviews as far as the game elements, but high marks for technology when it came out being the largest game of its time (7 CDs) with the most interactive movie elements. The video sequences are somewhat cheesy and not of the same caliber as the Wing Commander games or The Best Within (another Sierra title) - however it did push the envelope on violence and dark themes as it is a true 'horror' game - only to be topped by the sequel which had more violence/sex and much higher quality video sequences.
If you know going into the game to take everything with a grain of salt (I'd personally try finding it on Ebay unless GOG drops the price to $5.99) then you will be all right - if you go in expecting the quality of Gabriel Knight SOTF or another beloved adventure title you will probably be disappointed.
Xyntec: Yeah, especially the atmosphere is pretty awesome. And don't forget about the gruesome (splatter-)sequences. Only the puzzle are a bit too easy for my taste. Anyway, just bought it and I'm quite happy to play this masterpiece finally on Win 7.
I hope, GOG will release Phantasmagoria 2 as well x)
Edit: it came out on seven discs ;-)
Agreed, I'd hope they also release Phan 2 to complete the series.