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Amnesia: The Bunker

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Amnesia: The Bunker
Item: Amnesia: The Bunker
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Shooter, Horror, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableJun 6, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperFrictional Games

Overview

Amnesia: The Bunker is a first-person horror game set in a desolate WW1 Bunker. Face the oppressing terrors stalking the dark corridors. Search for and use the tools and weapons at your disposal, while keeping the lights on at all costs. Overcome fear, persevere, and make your way out alive.

Elsewhere

7.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

54%

Mixed (50-79)

44%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Amnesia: The Bunker has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the immersive and chilling atmosphere created by the World War I setting, with elements of horror and isolation. Critics like BaziCenter and Metro GameCentral appreciated the sinister presence in the abandoned bunker, which added to the tension and fear experienced by the player. Eurogamer also commended the world-building and detailed notes that effectively contributed to the dark and scary premise of the game. Additionally, Cultured Vultures highlighted the narrative's engagement through the protagonist's interactions and the sense of urgency in escaping the bunker. On the other hand, some critics found the story lacking depth and engagement. CGMagazine and DualShockers criticized the narrative for being uninteresting and lackluster, with notes and diary entries not providing enough insight into the characters or the overall plot. New Game Network and Siliconera mentioned that the amnesia element did not add significant depth to the story, making it somewhat forgettable. Furthermore, PC Gamer noted that while the use of notes for storytelling was fresh and compelling, the story itself was predictable and could have been fleshed out more to enhance the player's experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story of Amnesia: The Bunker leans towards a mixed reception. While some reviewers appreciated the immersive setting, tense atmosphere, and engaging elements of horror and survival, others felt that the narrative lacked depth and failed to fully captivate players. Despite the varying opinions, it is evident that the game's story successfully creates a sense of fear and urgency through its World War I backdrop and the protagonist's journey to escape the haunted bunker. Critics like Eurogamer and Cultured Vultures highlighted the strengths of the narrative, while others such as CGMagazine and New Game Network pointed out areas for improvement in terms of storytelling and character development.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Amnesia: The Bunker's story receives mixed reviews from critics. Praise for its immersive World War I setting and chilling atmosphere contrasts with criticism of lacking depth and engagement. Some laud the tension and fear in the abandoned bunker, while others find the narrative uninteresting and forgettable. While the use of notes for storytelling is commended, some feel the story could be more compelling and less predictable. Overall, opinions are divided on the game's ability to captivate players, with strengths in creating fear and urgency but room for improvement in storytelling and character development.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the gameplay of Amnesia: The Bunker, several positive aspects stand out. Critics such as Xbox Tavern and Gameblog.fr praise the tense and immersive gameplay loop that involves managing resources, making decisions under pressure, and finding items while avoiding the terrifying monster. The addition of weapons, as noted by Pure Xbox and BaziCenter, adds a sense of empowerment and provides players with multiple approaches to overcoming obstacles. The emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving, and strategic decision-making, as highlighted by GameSkinny and GameRadar+, offers a dynamic and engaging experience for players. On the flip side, several criticisms were raised by critics regarding the gameplay of Amnesia: The Bunker. CGMagazine and Siliconera point out the frustration and tedium caused by trial and error mechanics and an annoying save system. App Trigger and Checkpoint Gaming mention issues with convoluted controls, useless weapons, and stressful interactions, detracting from the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Hooked Gamers and Cultured Vultures express concerns about the rudimentary puzzles, tedious backtracking, and the lack of depth in problem-solving, which may impact player engagement and enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Amnesia: The Bunker is mixed. While some, like PC Gamer and Eurogamer, appreciate the immersive sim elements, strategic choices, and survival horror aspects that create tension and suspense, others, such as GameCritics and SpazioGames, find fault with the trial and error gameplay, clunky controls, and unpredictable elements. The game seems to offer a unique blend of survival horror, resource management, and exploration, with varying degrees of success in execution, leading to a diverse range of opinions among critics. Ultimately, the gameplay of Amnesia: The Bunker appears to cater to players seeking a challenging and atmospheric experience, albeit with some flaws that may impact overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise Amnesia: The Bunker for its tense gameplay loop, empowering weapons, and engaging exploration. However, they criticize its trial and error mechanics, convoluted controls, and lackluster puzzles. Overall, opinions are mixed, with some appreciating its immersive elements while others find faults in its execution.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

49%

Mixed (50-79)

49%

Negative (0-49)

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

The positive aspects of the Graphics and Visual Design of Amnesia: The Bunker, as highlighted by several critics, include the creation of a tense and immersive atmosphere through the game's rich environments and attention to detail. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Pure Xbox praise the game for effectively utilizing light and dark to craft a suspenseful ambiance within the claustrophobic bunker setting. The use of lighting effects, dark corridors, and realistic environments, such as abandoned barracks and deserted halls, contributes to the overall horror experience, as noted by critics like Cultured Vultures and TheGamer. Additionally, the game's visuals are commended for enhancing the sense of vulnerability and fear, with the design emphasizing the foreboding atmosphere reminiscent of World War I settings, as mentioned by Generación Xbox. On the other hand, there are several criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Amnesia: The Bunker. Some critics, such as GameSkinny and SpazioGames, point out that the graphics appear dated and lack originality compared to other horror titles, with repetitive level design and unfinished areas impacting immersion. GameGrin and DualShockers highlight visual glitches, dated visual aspects, and the need for refinement to enhance the horror experience. Issues with the creature's animations and collision, as mentioned by New Game Network, also detract from the overall visual presentation of the game. Furthermore, some critics, like Gameblog.fr and Siliconera, note that the game's graphics have not been updated since a previous title, leading to criticisms of outdated visuals. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Amnesia: The Bunker is mixed. While some reviewers appreciate the game's ability to create a terrifying atmosphere through its visuals, lighting effects, and immersive setting, others express concerns about dated graphics, repetitive design elements, and technical shortcomings. Critics like TheXboxHub and Adventure Gamers commend the game for its impressive lighting effects and immersive environment, while others, such as GameSpew and GameGrin, highlight graphical anomalies and lack of polish. Despite differing opinions on specific aspects of the visuals, there is a general acknowledgment that the game effectively captures a sense of claustrophobia and fear within the World War I bunker setting, contributing to a suitable ambiance for a horror experience, as noted by The Jimquisition and Siliconera.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praise Amnesia: The Bunker for its immersive atmosphere created by rich environments and attention to detail, using light and dark effectively to build suspense. However, criticisms include dated graphics, lack of originality, and technical issues, leading to mixed opinions among reviewers. Some appreciate the game's ability to evoke fear, while others highlight visual glitches and outdated visuals. Overall, the game succeeds in capturing a terrifying ambiance but falls short in terms of graphics and design refinement.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

16%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the sound design and music of Amnesia: The Bunker, highlighting it as a standout feature of the game. App Trigger commended the atmospheric sounds of the bunker, war, and monsters, setting a terrifying tone. BaziCenter noted that the top-notch audio design enhanced the terrifying experience, with every sound affecting gameplay. Checkpoint Gaming and Gameblog.fr both emphasized how the sound design effectively created terror and immersion, with the presence of the beast antagonist adding to the fear factor. PlayStation LifeStyle appreciated the barbaric snarls and thunderous footsteps that heightened the eerie atmosphere, while Generación Xbox and MondoXbox found the spatial audio and overall sound design to be immersive. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback on the sound design and music, there were some minor criticisms from a few critics. App Trigger mentioned that the monster itself was not as scary as anticipated, indicating a slight disconnect between the sound design and the actual fear factor it was meant to evoke. GameCritics highlighted an issue with the closed captioning feature not working properly, which could potentially affect players who rely on subtitles for accessibility. These critiques, however, were overshadowed by the overall consensus of the sound design being a significant strength of the game. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Amnesia: The Bunker. Critics like PC Gamer praised Frictional's superb sound design for building a sense of dread and signaling the monster's alert level effectively. TheSixthAxis highlighted the standout feature of the game as the audio design, with echoing corridors and the roars of the monster creating a tense atmosphere. The use of sound to attract the enemy, as cleverly mentioned by IGN, and the need to manage noise levels for survival, as noted by GameWatcher, further demonstrate the critical acclaim for the sound design's role in enhancing the horror experience. Overall, the majority of critics found the sound design and music to be exceptional, contributing significantly to the immersive and terrifying atmosphere of Amnesia: The Bunker.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics unanimously laud the sound design and music of Amnesia: The Bunker for creating a terrifying and immersive atmosphere. The atmospheric sounds, monster noises, and music were highlighted as standout features that heightened the fear factor. While some minor criticisms were noted, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the sound design for its ability to enhance the horror experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Amnesia: The Bunker has received generally positive feedback from the critics. GamingBolt praised the performance of Henri, noting that it effectively added to the horror experience by recounting terrible deeds. Additionally, Wccftech highlighted the excellent voice actors used for supplementary material like logs, which enhanced the overall experience. These positive aspects indicate that the voice acting successfully contributed to the immersive and engaging nature of the game, as noted by The Jimquisition, who described it as "understatedly solid" throughout, contributing positively to the overall experience. On the other hand, there were some mixed opinions regarding the voice acting in Amnesia: The Bunker. PlayStation Country mentioned that the acting was serviceable in the limited spoken dialogue present in the game, suggesting that it may not have been particularly remarkable or standout. TheSixthAxis also noted that while the voice acting for notes and character dialogue was fine, it did not necessarily stand out as exceptional. These opinions indicate that while the voice acting was decent and did not detract from the experience, it may have lacked a certain wow factor or standout performances. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Amnesia: The Bunker was generally well-received and positively contributed to the overall experience of the game. Critics like TRG praised the voice acting for adding depth and believability to the characters and the game world, while others appreciated how it enhanced the horror experience and immersion. While there were some mixed opinions regarding the standout nature of the voice acting, the general sentiment leans towards it being a positive aspect of the game that successfully added to the atmosphere and narrative, ultimately enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics generally laud the voice acting in Amnesia: The Bunker for enhancing the horror experience and adding depth to the characters. While some found it serviceable but not exceptional, most agree it positively contributes to the immersive nature of the game. Overall, the voice acting is considered a solid aspect that boosts the atmosphere and narrative, making the gameplay experience more engaging.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

82%

Negative (0-49)

12%

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

In terms of technical performance on different gaming platforms, Amnesia: The Bunker received mixed reviews. On the PS4, critics like BaziCenter and PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted occasional frame rate drops, graphical anomalies, crashes, and clunky load screens as drawbacks. However, on the Xbox Series X, GameSkinny and IGN Portugal praised the direct and immersive gameplay experience despite minor technical issues like traversal stutter and loading pauses. Pure Xbox, on the other hand, faced multiple crashes leading to lost progression, which significantly impacted the overall experience. Moving on to the negatives, PC gamers encountered various technical issues. Critics such as GameGrin and GamingBolt reported stuttering, FPS drops, visual glitches, and immersion-breaking bugs, indicating a need for more polish. New Game Network and PC Games faced gameplay-affecting problems like creatures clipping through objects and walls, as well as bugs affecting input and key bindings. IGN also noted screen hangs during area transitions, further adding to the technical woes experienced on PC. Overall, the consensus among critics for Amnesia: The Bunker's technical performance across all platforms leans towards a mixed reception. While some platforms like the Xbox Series X offered a relatively stable experience with minor issues, others like the PS4 and PC faced more significant technical challenges that hindered gameplay immersion. Critics like GGRecon and PLAY! Zine acknowledged the stability of the technical performance on PC, but issues like physics problems, crashes, and bugs were prevalent. The general sentiment suggests that while the game may deliver an engaging experience, technical shortcomings across platforms detract from its overall enjoyment, with improvements needed to enhance performance and address prevalent issues.

TL;DR

technical performance

Amnesia: The Bunker's technical performance varies across platforms. Xbox Series X offers a more stable experience with minor issues, while PS4 and PC face more significant challenges like crashes and bugs. Critics agree that technical improvements are needed to enhance gameplay immersion and overall enjoyment.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

16%

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

The opinions of several critics highlight the positive aspects of the replay value in Amnesia: The Bunker. Critics such as Metro GameCentral, GameGrin, and PC Gamer praise the game for its randomized elements, including item locations, codes, and traps, which provide a unique experience with each playthrough. This dynamic feature adds depth and unpredictability to the gameplay, encouraging players to revisit the game multiple times. Additionally, critics like PLAY! Zine and GGRecon appreciate the hidden secrets, alternate story paths, and different approaches to obstacles that contribute to the game's replayability. On the other hand, some critics point out the negatives regarding the replay value of Amnesia: The Bunker. Checkpoint Gaming, Cultured Vultures, and Riot Pixels express concerns about the game's relatively short length and lack of compelling reasons to replay it. The limited motivation to revisit the game after completing a playthrough, unsatisfactory endings, and tedious gameplay are mentioned as deterrents to replaying. Furthermore, critics like IGN and Ragequit.gr highlight issues such as the lack of genuine fear or engagement for repeat playthroughs, as well as the potential impact of open-ended progression on narrative coherence. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Amnesia: The Bunker is mixed. While some critics, such as PC Gamer and GameGrin, commend the game for its unpredictable and unnerving gameplay that encourages multiple playthroughs, others, like Cultured Vultures and Riot Pixels, find the experience lacking in fear and engagement for repeat plays. The randomized elements, dynamic item locations, and varied playthrough experiences contribute positively to the replayability of the game, but its short length, unsatisfactory endings, and limited incentives for replay may deter some players from revisiting the game. Ultimately, the varying opinions suggest that the replay value of Amnesia: The Bunker may appeal more to players who enjoy exploring different strategies and experiences in each playthrough, rather than those seeking a deeply engaging and enduring replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of Amnesia: The Bunker. Positive feedback from some highlights its unique randomized elements and varied gameplay experiences that encourage multiple playthroughs. However, negative feedback points out concerns like short length, lack of compelling reasons to replay, and unsatisfactory endings. While some praise its unpredictability, others find it lacking in fear and engagement for repeat plays. Overall, the game's replay value may appeal more to players who enjoy exploring different strategies in each playthrough rather than seeking a deeply engaging replay experience.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

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

Amnesia: The Bunker has garnered praise from critics for several aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Critics like Generación Xbox and Pure Xbox commend the game for its tension, old-school horror development, and scariest title since Amnesia: The Dark Descent. The game's environmental design, graphics, and immersive atmosphere, as highlighted by Wccftech and Siliconera, also receive positive feedback. Additionally, GameSpew and GameGrin appreciate the survival horror elements, engaging gameplay mechanics, and replay value that add to the overall experience of the game. PC Gamer goes as far as describing it as one of the scariest and most stressful experiences that leave a lasting impact on players. On the flip side, criticisms of Amnesia: The Bunker mainly revolve around its shortcomings and missed opportunities. CGMagazine, Riot Pixels, and Dexerto express disappointment in the game's brevity, lack of depth, and failure to fully realize its potential. Shacknews and Checkpoint Gaming point out issues with gameplay mechanics, frustrating flashlight mechanics, and unsatisfying endings, respectively. Some critics, like GameSkinny and DualShockers, find the narrative lacking and the atmosphere not as scary as expected. Technical issues, limited savepoints, and repetitive gameplay mechanics are also highlighted as drawbacks by TheSixthAxis and GameGrin. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Amnesia: The Bunker is mixed. While some, like GameWatcher and Twinfinite, appreciate the fresh and intense addition to the series, others, such as Riot Pixels and GameSkinny, feel that it falls short in creating a truly terrifying atmosphere and compelling narrative. Despite its flaws, the game manages to deliver a unique horror experience with tension, psychological horror, and immersive gameplay, as acknowledged by GamingBolt and Pure Xbox. Ultimately, the game's success seems to hinge on individual preferences, with some critics finding it to be a standout horror experience, while others believe it lacks the depth and innovation to fully satisfy fans of the genre.

TL;DR

Critics praise Amnesia: The Bunker for its tension, old-school horror, and immersive atmosphere. However, some criticize its brevity, lack of depth, and gameplay issues. Overall, opinions are mixed with some finding it a unique horror experience while others feel it falls short.

MONSTER

Reviews

129 reviews found

PC Gamer

Jun 5, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is praised for its harrowing encounters, immersive sim elements, compelling story, fresh storytelling approach, and high replay value. The game is described as one of the scariest and most stressful experiences, leaving a lasting impact on players.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Jun 22, 2023

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

The game is praised as an excellently crafted survival horror with tension, dread, near misses, and clever puzzles. The weak finale is mentioned as a downside.

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GGRecon

Jun 5, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is praised as one of the best survival horror experiences of recent times, shifting the franchise in a new direction with dynamic encounters and emergent gameplay.

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Hey Poor Player

Jun 5, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is praised as a purist survival horror experience with mind-shredding scares and a thoughtful take on the genre. The reviewer gives it a final score of 4.5 out of 5.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jun 26, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is praised for being a truly terrifying and stressful horror experience that keeps players engaged and sweating, despite some limitations in replayability. It is recommended for horror fans seeking a frightening experience.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Jul 12, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is a nerve-racking experience that is a natural evolution of the franchise, despite occasional technical issues.

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Wccftech

Jun 5, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is praised for its environmental design, graphics, gameplay mechanics, open-ended nature, and subtle changes that keep players engaged. However, its short length and limitations due to the dated engine are noted as drawbacks.

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GameSkinny

Xbox Series X

Jun 15, 2023

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

Amnesia: The Bunker is a successful franchise revival that rewards exploration and experimentation. It falls short in creating a scary atmosphere and the narrative isn't particularly compelling. However, it is still considered an A-plus horror experience.

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God is a Geek

Jun 5, 2023

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

The game sets a new standard for horror games and pushes the boundaries of the Amnesia series. It may be too scary for some, but it is a fantastic horror experience.

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PLAY! Zine

Jul 4, 2023

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

A high-quality horror game that successfully blends genres, offering a challenging and immersive horror experience. A must-play for horror enthusiasts.

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