76
MONSTER
As Dusk Falls is an original interactive drama from INTERIOR/NIGHT that explores the entangled lives of two families across thirty years. Starting in 1998 with a robbery-gone-wrong in small town Arizona, the choices you make have a powerful impact on the characters’ lives in this uncompromising story of betrayal, sacrifice and resilience. Drive the lives and relationships of multiple characters in a decades-spanning story told across two intense books.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
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85
As Dusk Falls impresses with its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, earning praise for its exploration of heavy themes like trauma and family dynamics. Critics commend its emotionally resonant choices and deep storytelling, though some highlight issues with clichés and pacing, particularly in the latter half. Overall, while it has its flaws, the game is recognized as a gripping narrative experience that resonates with players, solidifying its place in the narrative adventure genre.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
85
Positive Reviews (80-100)
81%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
16%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
2%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
As Dusk Falls impresses with its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, earning praise for its exploration of heavy themes like trauma and family dynamics. Critics commend its emotionally resonant choices and deep storytelling, though some highlight issues with clichés and pacing, particularly in the latter half. Overall, while it has its flaws, the game is recognized as a gripping narrative experience that resonates with players, solidifying its place in the narrative adventure genre.
Gameplay Mechanics
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68
As Dusk Falls shines with its narrative-driven approach and unique multiplayer feature, allowing up to eight players to collaboratively shape the story. Critics praise its impactful choices, likening it to Detroit: Become Human for its replayability. However, many find the gameplay too simplistic and passive, with complaints about a lack of depth and exploration. Overall, while the narrative engagement is commendable, the game’s mechanics may leave players craving more interactivity and dynamism.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
68
Positive Reviews (80-100)
16%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
76%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
8%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
As Dusk Falls shines with its narrative-driven approach and unique multiplayer feature, allowing up to eight players to collaboratively shape the story. Critics praise its impactful choices, likening it to Detroit: Become Human for its replayability. However, many find the gameplay too simplistic and passive, with complaints about a lack of depth and exploration. Overall, while the narrative engagement is commendable, the game’s mechanics may leave players craving more interactivity and dynamism.
Graphics and Visual Design
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77
As Dusk Falls wows with its striking blend of 3D backgrounds and 2D hand-painted characters, delivering a visually evocative storytelling experience praised for emotional depth. However, critics highlight issues with execution—awkward animations and jarring transitions disrupt immersion, especially in action sequences. While some celebrate its unique style akin to graphic novels, others find the inconsistency a drawback. Ultimately, the game’s visuals spark a divided response, showcasing creativity tempered by execution flaws.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
77
Positive Reviews (80-100)
42%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
56%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
2%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
As Dusk Falls wows with its striking blend of 3D backgrounds and 2D hand-painted characters, delivering a visually evocative storytelling experience praised for emotional depth. However, critics highlight issues with execution—awkward animations and jarring transitions disrupt immersion, especially in action sequences. While some celebrate its unique style akin to graphic novels, others find the inconsistency a drawback. Ultimately, the game’s visuals spark a divided response, showcasing creativity tempered by execution flaws.
Music and Sound Design
Expand for full analysis
79
As Dusk Falls receives praise for its sound design and music, enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. Critics laud Forest Swords' enjoyable score and the immersive audio landscape, likening it to an audio drama. However, issues with voice acting inconsistency and audio mixing detract from the experience, with some deeming the music unmemorable. While the overall reception is positive, there’s a call for more dynamic elements to elevate the audio further in future endeavors.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
79
Positive Reviews (80-100)
68%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
30%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
2%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
As Dusk Falls receives praise for its sound design and music, enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. Critics laud Forest Swords' enjoyable score and the immersive audio landscape, likening it to an audio drama. However, issues with voice acting inconsistency and audio mixing detract from the experience, with some deeming the music unmemorable. While the overall reception is positive, there’s a call for more dynamic elements to elevate the audio further in future endeavors.
Voice Acting
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83
The voice acting in As Dusk Falls receives widespread acclaim for enhancing the game's narrative and emotional depth, with standout performances from actors like Elias Toufexis and Jane Perry. Critics praise the immersion and character credibility it provides. However, some reviews note instances of wooden performances and translation issues, particularly in the Spanish dub, leading to mixed sentiments. Overall, while there are criticisms, the voice acting is largely viewed as a key strength that enriches the player's experience.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING
Acting Score
83
Positive Reviews (80-100)
75%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
23%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
1%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.
TL;DR
voice acting
The voice acting in As Dusk Falls receives widespread acclaim for enhancing the game's narrative and emotional depth, with standout performances from actors like Elias Toufexis and Jane Perry. Critics praise the immersion and character credibility it provides. However, some reviews note instances of wooden performances and translation issues, particularly in the Spanish dub, leading to mixed sentiments. Overall, while there are criticisms, the voice acting is largely viewed as a key strength that enriches the player's experience.
Technical Performance
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62
As Dusk Falls delivers a mixed performance across platforms. The Xbox Series X and PS5 versions play smoothly with minor issues, earning praise from critics. However, the Xbox Series X and PC versions face serious technical flaws, including frame rate drops, input lag, and graphical glitches that hinder gameplay. While some enjoy the experience, many players may find the substantial bugs and instability disappointing.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
62
Positive Reviews (80-100)
9%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
73%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
18%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
As Dusk Falls delivers a mixed performance across platforms. The Xbox Series X and PS5 versions play smoothly with minor issues, earning praise from critics. However, the Xbox Series X and PC versions face serious technical flaws, including frame rate drops, input lag, and graphical glitches that hinder gameplay. While some enjoy the experience, many players may find the substantial bugs and instability disappointing.
Replay Value
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78
As Dusk Falls boasts strong replay value with its branching narratives and multiple endings, praised by outlets like IGN and Game Informer. Players can revisit choices using a timeline feature and enjoy unique perspectives through multiplayer mode, enhancing the experience. However, critics warn that the inability to skip dialogues makes replaying tedious, and some story paths lack satisfaction, potentially diminishing player incentive. While the game’s framework encourages exploration, pacing issues and repetitive dialogue may deter those seeking a streamlined experience. Overall, it's a compelling choice for players willing to dive into its complexities.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
78
Positive Reviews (80-100)
53%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
46%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
1%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
As Dusk Falls boasts strong replay value with its branching narratives and multiple endings, praised by outlets like IGN and Game Informer. Players can revisit choices using a timeline feature and enjoy unique perspectives through multiplayer mode, enhancing the experience. However, critics warn that the inability to skip dialogues makes replaying tedious, and some story paths lack satisfaction, potentially diminishing player incentive. While the game’s framework encourages exploration, pacing issues and repetitive dialogue may deter those seeking a streamlined experience. Overall, it's a compelling choice for players willing to dive into its complexities.
Overall Verdict
76
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
76
Positive Reviews (80-100)
63%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
36%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
1%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
As Dusk Falls garners mixed reactions: praised for its narrative depth and unique art style, yet criticized for a lackluster script and execution. While its engaging storytelling and multiplayer features shine, flaws like pacing issues, a disappointing ending, and technical glitches hold it back. Ultimately, it appeals more to casual players than those seeking a traditional gaming experience, marking it as a noteworthy but imperfect entry in the interactive drama genre.
76
MONSTER
Reviews
141 reviews found100
PlayStation Universe
Mar 11, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a beacon of narrative excellence, setting a new standard for interactive dramas with its compelling storytelling, character development, and innovative visuals.
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100
Xbox Tavern
Jul 18, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a stellar example of the narrative adventure genre, with a fantastic cast of characters, twists and turns, and a stunning art style and soundtrack. It is one of the best examples of the genre and one of the best titles of the year so far.
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100
Impulsegamer
Aug 1, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The reviewer praises As Dusk Falls, stating that there is almost nothing to dislike about the game. It is described as exceeding expectations and bringing something new and refreshing to the table.
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95
Wccftech
Jul 18, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a fantastic game with an intriguing story, excellent gameplay, and beautiful visuals. It may have some minor issues with choices not matching the player's expectations, but overall, it is highly recommended.
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92
Impulsegamer
Mar 29, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The game is highly recommended for fans of the interactive adventure genre, praised for its engaging story, character depth, and unique presentation, making it a standout title.
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90
GameSpot
Jul 18, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is an instant classic in the narrative adventure genre. It tells a complete and excellent story, with nuanced characters and dialogue options. It leaves room for a sequel and explores under-explored themes in video games.
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90
IGN Brasil
Jul 19, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls é uma obra-prima de narrativa ramificada, com uma experiência envolvente tanto para jogadores solo quanto em grupo. A combinação de uma história intensa, escolhas significativas e um design visual único faz dele uma recomendação forte para fãs do gênero.
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90
TheXboxHub
Jul 26, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a confident debut game with superb storytelling and a satisfying narrative experience. It is recommended for fans of Life is Strange and Telltale games who want more generous reactions to their choices.
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90
The Loadout
Jul 18, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a captivating narrative-focused game that grounds itself in human experiences and captures the hallmarks of prestige TV with its acting, writing, and style. It is one of the best interactive adventures of the year.
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90
GameSkinny
Jul 19, 2022
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
As Dusk Falls is a stellar entry in the interactive narrative genre with a gripping story and excellent performances.