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Amnesia: Rebirth

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Amnesia: Rebirth
Item: Amnesia: Rebirth
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Horror, Puzzle and Logic, Mystery, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 20, 2020

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperFrictional Games

Overview

Amnesia: Rebirth is a new descent into darkness from the creators of the iconic Amnesia series. Set in the desolate landscape of the Algerian desert, the game will focus on new character Tasi Trianon as she sets out on a harrowing journey through devastation and despair, personal terror and pain, while exploring the limits of human resilience.

Elsewhere

6.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth offers an ambitious narrative that dives deep into themes of motherhood, survival, and identity, earning praise for its emotional depth and immersive storytelling. Critics laud Tasi’s personal journey and the exploration of complex societal issues like colonialism and trauma. However, the execution falters, with many reviewers citing disjointed scripting and uneven delivery that hampers player engagement. While it resonates with fans of emotional storytelling, the game's narrative shortcomings leave others feeling unsatisfied. Ultimately, it’s a polarizing addition to the franchise, balancing admiration with significant critique.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Amnesia: Rebirth has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its ambitious narrative and emotional depth. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and PlayStation LifeStyle, highlight the gripping and immersive nature of the story, emphasizing its focus on Tasi's journey and the personal themes of motherhood and survival. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and The Indie Game Website commend the narrative for its emotional resonance and the way it intertwines personal and societal issues, such as colonialism and trauma. The game’s exploration of memory and identity, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com, adds layers to the storytelling, making it a rich experience for players who appreciate narrative-driven games. However, the story is not without its flaws, as many critics point out significant shortcomings in its execution. Push Square and New Game Network criticize the uneven and crude delivery of the narrative, suggesting that it lacks cohesion and fails to maintain player engagement. Finger Guns echoes this sentiment, describing the story as muddled and lacking character connection, while GameGrin notes that the character-driven narrative is ultimately forgettable. Additionally, several reviewers, including Atomix and TheGamer, mention that the script feels disjointed, with some plot points lacking authenticity and leaving many questions unanswered. This inconsistency in storytelling has led to a perception that the narrative does not live up to the high standards set by earlier entries in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Amnesia: Rebirth presents an intriguing and ambitious narrative, it struggles with execution and coherence. Many reviewers appreciate the emotional themes and character development, as highlighted by critics like God is a Geek and The Digital Fix, but they also recognize the significant narrative pitfalls that detract from the overall experience. The game seems to resonate well with those who value emotional storytelling and character arcs, yet it leaves others feeling dissatisfied due to its uneven pacing and lack of clarity. As a result, Amnesia: Rebirth stands as a polarizing entry in the franchise, with its story eliciting both admiration and criticism from the gaming community.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth delivers intense atmosphere and effective fear mechanics, winning praise for exploration and puzzle-solving. Critics celebrate its blend of traditional horror and innovative tools like the glowing compass. However, many find gameplay outdated, with clunky mechanics and frustrating puzzles disrupting immersion. The game struggles with pacing and innovation, resulting in a polarized reception—balancing moments of horror with a linear feel that fails to fully engage modern audiences. Overall, it's a mixed bag that doesn't quite revitalize the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Amnesia: Rebirth has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its ability to create an intense atmosphere and effectively leverage fear mechanics. Critics like IGN and VideoGamer praised the game's focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and the management of light sources, which enhances the psychological horror experience. Many reviewers, such as GamesRadar+ and MGG Spain, noted that the game successfully combines traditional horror elements with engaging puzzles, creating a balance between narrative and tension. The introduction of new mechanics, like the glowing compass and the amulet, has been acknowledged by critics like Cultured Vultures as adding depth to the gameplay, allowing players to navigate through dark environments while maintaining a sense of dread. However, there is a significant amount of criticism directed at the gameplay mechanics, which many reviewers found to be outdated and lacking innovation. Finger Guns and Push Square articulated frustrations with the integration of gameplay mechanics, describing them as tedious and clunky, particularly in the context of puzzles that lack clarity. Critics like PC Gamer and Siliconera echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the gameplay felt reminiscent of The Dark Descent but failed to introduce meaningful changes. Additionally, several reviewers, including Game Informer and Softpedia, criticized the pacing of the game, noting that puzzles could disrupt the flow and that the hide-and-seek mechanics with monsters felt outdated and unsatisfying. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Amnesia: Rebirth retains the core elements that fans of the series appreciate, it struggles with innovation and consistency in its gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and Guardian, noted that although the game includes well-constructed puzzles and a tense atmosphere, it often feels linear and lacks the depth and engagement expected from a modern horror title. The mixed responses suggest that while the game offers moments of intense horror and clever puzzle design, it ultimately falls short of revitalizing the franchise, leading to a somewhat polarized reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth wows with its atmospheric graphics and immersive lighting, transporting players to chilling settings filled with dread. Critics praise its haunting aesthetic but slam the technical execution: simplistic geometry, poor textures, and frame rate issues render the visuals dated. While the game successfully crafts a terrifying experience, many feel it falls short of the franchise's standards, leaving the overall presentation unsatisfactory. In short, it's a mixed bag of eerie beauty and technical letdowns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Amnesia: Rebirth have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their atmospheric qualities and effective use of lighting. Many reviewers, such as PC Gamer and GAMINGbible, highlighted the detailed environments and realistic lighting that contribute to the game's immersive horror experience. Critics like Easy Allies noted the variety of settings, including scorching deserts and pitch-black caves, which enhance the sense of dread and unease. Additionally, Cultured Vultures appreciated the surprising moments of beauty hidden within the darkness, while Merlin'in Kazanı emphasized the impressive atmospheric effects that enrich the horror experience. Such elements indicate that the game succeeds in creating a compelling and haunting atmosphere, which is essential for a horror title. However, the overall sentiment regarding the graphics is marred by significant criticisms regarding their technical execution. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and BaziCenter, expressed disappointment in the graphics, citing simplistic geometry and a lack of polish that detracts from the immersion. Critics like Push Square pointed out poor texture work and frequent frame rate drops, while Attack of the Fanboy noted that the graphics appear somewhat dated, using an engine that hasn't seen substantial improvements since SOMA. Furthermore, Screen Rant lamented that the game looks like it belongs to an earlier console generation, which is particularly striking given the advancements in gaming technology over the years. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Amnesia: Rebirth excels in creating a chilling atmosphere through its visual design, it falls short in terms of technical quality and graphical fidelity. Critics like PlayStation Universe and GameOver.gr acknowledged that the dated graphics do not overshadow the overall experience, but many others, such as GamesRadar+ and Video Chums, found the visuals lacking compared to the franchise's predecessors. Ultimately, the game manages to deliver an engaging horror experience, but it does so with a visual presentation that leaves much to be desired, as reflected in the mixed reviews from both players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth's sound design and music have received widespread acclaim for enhancing its horror atmosphere, with critics praising its effectiveness, especially with headphones. While most reviews celebrate its immersive quality, a few dissenters find certain elements lacking or overly reliant on jump scares. Overall, the audio is deemed a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game's chilling experience and success in the horror genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Amnesia: Rebirth have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many emphasizing its critical role in enhancing the game's horror atmosphere. Reviewers such as App Trigger and Gameblog.fr praised the sound design for being impactful and meaningful, contributing significantly to the overall experience. Areajugones highlighted the necessity of sound in a survival horror context, noting that players must rely on their auditory senses to navigate the game effectively. Similarly, Game Rant and Gamers' Temple commended the sound design for creating a terrifying atmosphere, especially when experienced with headphones, which amplifies the chilling effects of the game's audio. The haunting music, as noted by PlayStation Universe and XGN, further complements the sound design, evoking a sense of dread and nostalgia for fans of the franchise. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics expressed reservations regarding certain aspects of the sound design. Finger Guns found the sound design unremarkable, specifically criticizing the fear mechanic's bubbling noise as annoying and detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviews pointed out that while the sound design is generally effective, there were moments where it relied too heavily on overt scares rather than psychological horror elements, as mentioned by New Game Network and PC Gamer. This indicates a divergence in opinions, where a small minority felt that the sound design did not fully meet the high standards set by previous titles in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Amnesia: Rebirth excels in its sound design and music, creating an immersive and terrifying experience for players. The majority of reviewers, including DualShockers and IGN, emphasized how the audio elements contribute to the game's atmosphere, enhancing feelings of tension and dread. While there are some critiques regarding specific sound effects and reliance on jump scares, the overwhelming sentiment is that the sound design is a standout feature of the game, effectively drawing players into its harrowing world. This strong positive reception indicates that the audio experience is not only a crucial component of gameplay but also a significant factor in the game's success as a horror title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Amnesia: Rebirth is highly praised for adding emotional depth, particularly Alix Wilton Regan's performance as protagonist Tasi, which enhances the narrative experience. Critics commend the immersive quality of the voice work but note issues with the frequency and delivery of Tasi's vocalizations, which can disrupt immersion. Overall, the voice acting is seen as a standout feature that significantly enriches the game, despite some minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Amnesia: Rebirth has garnered considerable praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's emotional depth and storytelling. Reviewers such as BaziCenter and Gameblog.fr emphasized the strong performances, particularly that of the protagonist Tasi, which they noted adds a profound emotional weight to the narrative. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Adventure Gamers echoed these sentiments, applauding Alix Wilton Regan's portrayal of Tasi for capturing a wide range of emotions and enhancing the immersive experience. Additionally, the voice acting was recognized for its ability to bring characters to life, as noted by Screen Rant, where the characters, although rarely seen, still resonate through their well-crafted voice performances. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues with the frequency and delivery of the protagonist's voiceovers. Metro GameCentral and DualShockers mentioned that Tasi's constant vocalizations could detract from immersion, with inconsistent reactions noted that might break the player's engagement with the game. Furthermore, while the voice acting was generally well-received, certain reviewers like New Game Network and Riot Pixels found that the excessive self-talk from the protagonist could become tedious, potentially undermining the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Amnesia: Rebirth. Most reviewers, including those from Cultured Vultures and Gamers' Temple, agree that the voice performances significantly enhance the narrative and character development, making it a highlight of the game. While there are some critiques regarding the frequency of monologues and occasional inconsistencies in delivery, the general sentiment remains that the voice acting is a strong asset to the game's immersive storytelling, with many critics commending the emotional resonance it brings to Tasi's journey.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth delivers a gripping horror experience, but its technical performance is hit or miss. The PS4 version runs smoothly at times but is plagued by glitches, texture issues, and frame rate drops that disrupt immersion. Conversely, the PC version generally shines with stable gameplay and 60 FPS on mid-range systems, though it’s not without minor physics glitches. Overall, while the game excels in atmosphere, its technical inconsistencies could frustrate some players across both platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Amnesia: Rebirth varies significantly across platforms, with the PS4 and PC showing distinct strengths. On the PS4, critics from Cultured Vultures and TheSixthAxis noted that the game runs smoothly, especially when compared to its predecessors, which is a positive aspect for players on this console. Additionally, Adventure Gamers highlighted that the game maintains impressive animations, enhancing immersion in the horror experience. On PC, the performance is generally solid, with multiple critics such as Hobby Consolas and Wccftech praising its stability and smooth gameplay, particularly at 60 FPS on mid-range systems. This suggests that the game is well-optimized for a range of hardware, allowing for a consistent experience across different setups. However, the PS4 version is marred by several technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Finger Guns reported glitches like falling through the floor, while Push Square pointed out texture work issues and frequent frame rate drops that hinder stability, especially after load screens. Jeuxvideo.com also noted shortcomings in character modeling that affect emotional moments in the story. On the PC side, while many reviews were positive, some critics like DualShockers and Gamer.no mentioned minor physics glitches and resource interaction issues. Although these problems were not severe, they indicate that the game does not achieve a flawless technical execution across the board. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Amnesia: Rebirth offers a compelling horror experience, its technical performance is a mixed bag. On PS4, the game is generally playable but suffers from various glitches and performance issues that can disrupt immersion, as noted by Push Square and Finger Guns. Meanwhile, the PC version is praised for its stability and solid performance, although some critics like MGG Spain and SpazioGames pointed out that it lacks standout technical prowess. Therefore, while the game succeeds in delivering a chilling atmosphere, it also faces challenges in technical refinement that may impact players' experiences across both platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth offers intriguing replay value through its multiple endings and narrative exploration, enticing players to revisit for varied experiences. However, critics warn of limited incentives due to its linearity, pacing issues, and unsatisfying conclusions, suggesting that while it has replayable elements, they may not be compelling enough for extensive returns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Amnesia: Rebirth reflect a mix of positive sentiments, particularly concerning the game's multiple endings and the potential for varied gameplay experiences. Critics like Areajugones and DualShockers highlight the presence of multiple endings, which can motivate players to revisit the game to explore different outcomes. Additionally, TheSixthAxis points out that completionists may find replayability in searching for collectibles, while Merlin'in Kazanı emphasizes the encouragement to explore different paths and puzzle solutions. This suggests that players who appreciate narrative depth and exploration may find sufficient reasons to replay the game. Conversely, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value, indicating that it may be limited in scope. For instance, Gamers' Temple notes that aside from reliving the story, the game offers little incentive for replaying, despite having three endings. Metro GameCentral echoes this sentiment, suggesting that the game's pacing and length could hinder replayability. Critics like New Game Network and Wccftech also mention the linearity and lack of depth in gameplay mechanics, which may lead to a diminished experience upon multiple playthroughs. Furthermore, CGMagazine criticizes the endings as lacking satisfaction, which could further discourage players from returning. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be that while Amnesia: Rebirth offers intriguing elements that can enhance replay value—such as multiple endings and narrative exploration—these factors are somewhat counterbalanced by concerns regarding linearity and the depth of gameplay. Critics like Easy Allies and USgamer acknowledge the engaging narrative and immersive gameplay, which provide some incentive for replaying, but the overall sentiment suggests that the game may not have enough compelling reasons for players to revisit it extensively. Thus, while there are aspects that encourage replayability, the limitations cited by various reviewers indicate that the game may not fully capitalize on its potential in this regard.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Amnesia: Rebirth has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several praising its immersive atmosphere, engaging narrative, and strong character development. Critics like GameSpot and USgamer highlight the game as a worthy sequel that successfully builds upon the franchise's legacy, offering a haunting narrative and immersive gameplay that appeals to horror enthusiasts. Additionally, SpazioGames and GameSkinny commend the storytelling maturity and the game's ability to create a gripping experience that resonates emotionally with players. The environmental design and sound work have also received accolades, with Game Informer noting these aspects as standout features that enhance the overall horror experience. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, as many critics have pointed out various flaws that detract from its potential. Push Square and Finger Guns express disappointment in the outdated gameplay mechanics and muddled narrative, suggesting that these issues make it hard to recommend for horror fans. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Video Chums echo this sentiment, citing a lack of originality and pacing issues that hinder the game's overall impact. Furthermore, while some reviewers acknowledge the game's strengths, they still believe it falls short of the high standards set by previous titles from Frictional Games, such as SOMA and the original Amnesia. The overall consensus among critics is a mixed one, with many recognizing Amnesia: Rebirth as a solid entry in the horror genre, albeit not without its flaws. While some, like GameSpot and Critical Hit, describe it as a stellar horror experience that refines the series' mechanics, others, such as TheGamer and Metro GameCentral, argue that it fails to live up to the franchise's legacy. Despite the criticisms, there remains a significant appreciation for the game's atmosphere, narrative depth, and emotional engagement, suggesting that while it may not be a perfect title, it still offers enough value to warrant attention from both fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Amnesia: Rebirth elicits mixed reviews; praised for its immersive atmosphere, gripping narrative, and character development, yet criticized for outdated mechanics and a muddled plot. While some hail it as a strong sequel in the horror genre, others argue it falls short of its predecessors’ standards. Ultimately, it offers a haunting experience worth exploring, despite its notable flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

126 reviews found

PC Gamer

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is praised for its effective and mind-bending horror elements, despite some gameplay mechanics feeling outdated

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Game Rant

PlayStation 4

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is terrifying and fun to play, miles ahead of most horror games. It is a no-brainer for anyone looking for something spooky to play.

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Hey Poor Player

Oct 28, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A worthy addition to the classic series, delivering intense scares and a gripping horror experience that immerses players in a world of fear and tension.

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GameSpew

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is a masterfully-crafted horror game that offers a terrifying and thought-provoking experience.

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USgamer

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is praised for being a worthy sequel to the horror classic, offering a haunting narrative and immersive gameplay that will appeal to both fans of the series and horror enthusiasts.

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Multiplayer.it

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A horror masterpiece with a strong narrative focus, must-play for horror enthusiasts, offering a cohesive story, intriguing gameplay, and a distinctive style.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 4

Oct 31, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is a daring and bold follow-up that expands upon the original, leveraging fear as a gameplay mechanic effectively, with great sound design and an inextricable blend of storytelling and gameplay. Minor performance issues and lack of immediate feedback may frustrate some players.

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Eurogamer Italy

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Praised for ambition and ability to provoke reflection, delivering a memorable and thought-provoking horror experience

KeenGamer

Oct 23, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth delivers a captivating Lovecraftian horror narrative with solid gameplay mechanics and impressive audio design. The graphics could have been more innovative, but overall it is a great addition to the Amnesia series.

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GamesRadar+

PlayStation 4

Oct 19, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Amnesia: Rebirth is described as a captivating horror experience that keeps players engaged with its story-driven gameplay and unsettling atmosphere, despite some minor flaws in execution.

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