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MONSTER

Call of Cthulhu

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Call of Cthulhu
Item: Call of Cthulhu
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2018

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Horror, RPG, Mystery, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 29, 2018

PlatformNintendo Switch, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PC

DeveloperCyanide

Overview

Developed by seasoned studio Cyanide, Call of Cthulhu is an RPG-Investigation game with psychological horror and stealth mechanics, set in a deeply immersive world. On a mission to find the truth behind the death of an acclaimed artist and her family on a backwater island, the player will soon uncover a more disturbing truth as the Great Dreamer, Cthulhu, prepares its awakening...

Elsewhere

7.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on Call of Cthulhu's story. Some praise its immersive narrative that captures Lovecraftian themes, while others criticize its lack of depth and rushed execution. The game's strengths include atmospheric storytelling and engaging mysteries, but weak gameplay and pacing issues detract from its potential as a truly terrifying horror experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Call of Cthulhu are varied. Some critics, such as PlayStation LifeStyle and The Escapist, praise the game for capturing the essence of Lovecraft's works and delivering a thickly atmospheric and suspenseful narrative. They mention that the story stays true to Lovecraft's themes of existential unease, madness, and otherworldly horrors. The narrative is described as intriguing, immersive, and well-crafted, with interesting twists and a sense of uncertainty. Critics like Game Informer and Worth Playing appreciate the story setup, which sows doubt about the protagonist's mental stability and puts the player in an odd position when making choices. The story is commended for its engaging and fun elements, creative mysteries, and the incorporation of elements from gothic horror classics. However, there are also critics who express disappointment with the story of Call of Cthulhu. Variety and Gameplanet criticize the game for lacking depth and failing to capture the essence of Lovecraftian horror. They mention that the story has potential but is hindered by clunky mechanics, distractions, and a rushed or incomplete execution. Cubed3 and Digital Chumps also criticize the story for feeling rushed and incomplete, with the later chapters resembling more of an interactive movie or walking-sim. The ending is deemed clichéd and undermining the potential of other endings. GameSpot points out that while the narrative maintains suspense and hits the player with well-timed twists, the lackluster sleuthing and terrible pseudo-action sequences undermine the storytelling achievements. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics appreciate the game's adherence to Lovecraft's works and the atmospheric, suspenseful, and engaging nature of the story, others feel that it falls short of being a truly terrifying horror game. The narrative is praised for capturing the essence of Lovecraft's horror and delivering intriguing mysteries, but it is also criticized for lacking depth, feeling rushed or incomplete, and having weak gameplay mechanics. The story's strengths lie in its immersion, atmosphere, and adherence to Lovecraftian themes, but its weaknesses lie in its execution, pacing, and unsatisfying resolutions. Critics like Game Informer and The Escapist highlight the positives of the story, while critics like Variety and Gameplanet highlight the negatives.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on the gameplay of Call of Cthulhu. Some praise its exploration and puzzle-solving elements, while others criticize its poorly executed stealth mechanics and clunky RPG systems. Overall, the game's strengths lie in investigation and puzzle-solving, but it falls short in various areas, leading to a consensus that it fails to fully deliver on its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

86%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Call of Cthulhu are quite diverse. Some critics highlight positive aspects of the gameplay, such as the exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Critics like GameCrate and NintendoWorldReport appreciate the focus on investigating environments, discovering clues, and overcoming puzzles. They find the exploration-based gameplay engaging and enjoy the multiple solutions to puzzles. Additionally, critics like God is a Geek and GamingTrend commend the engaging investigation mechanics and interesting spins on detective scenes. They find the detective work well-designed and satisfying. However, the majority of critics express negative opinions about the gameplay of Call of Cthulhu. Many critics criticize the implementation of stealth mechanics, describing them as poorly executed and frustrating. Softpedia and Gameplanet specifically mention the bad implementation of stealth mechanics, while Digital Chumps and Slant Magazine find the stealth sections uninspiring and defy logic. The clunky mechanics and obtuse RPG systems are also criticized by Gameplanet and Game Rant, who mention that they detract from the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, critics like Variety and DarkStation find the gameplay to be tedious and repetitive, with uninspiring stealth sections and puzzles. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Call of Cthulhu has its strengths in the investigation and puzzle-solving aspects, as well as the exploration and dialogue choices. However, it falls short in various areas, including the implementation of stealth mechanics, clunky mechanics, and repetitive gameplay. Critics like Digital Chumps and Softpedia mention the game's failure to develop consequence or meaningful interaction, while Slant Magazine criticizes the inclusion of survival horror elements as arbitrary and hackneyed. The lack of challenging puzzles and combat is also mentioned by Everyeye.it and Eurogamer Italy. Despite some positive aspects, the overall sentiment is that the gameplay of Call of Cthulhu is lacking and fails to fully deliver on its potential.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on the Graphics and Visual Design of Call of Cthulhu. Some praise its immersive environments and atmospheric elements, while others criticize the outdated graphics, poor character models, and technical issues, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, while the game succeeds in creating a creepy atmosphere, its visual aspects fall short of modern standards according to critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

16%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

21%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Call of Cthulhu are quite varied. Some critics, such as Gameblog.fr and Ragequit.gr, praise the game's art direction and atmospheric environments, which effectively capture the Lovecraftian spirit. The meticulous attention to detail in the environments, including gothic architecture, paintings, and books, adds to the immersion and world-building elements. The use of a sickly-green color palette, eerie lighting, and effective shadowing techniques also contribute to the foreboding atmosphere (Gameblog.fr, Push Square, PlayStation LifeStyle). The environments are described as beautifully rendered, with crumbling locales and a theme of opulence gone to seed (GameCritics). The game's visual presentation is moody and brooding, creating a sense of dread and unease (The Overpowered Noobs, CGMagazine). The use of a green-black color palette is also highlighted as adding to the eerie atmosphere (Ragequit.gr). On the other hand, many critics express negative opinions about the Graphics and Visual Design of Call of Cthulhu. The game is criticized for having outdated graphics, with rough and lacking attention to detail (Variety). The character models and animations are often described as poor, stiff, and amateurish (Softpedia, GamingTrend, Game Rant, Video Chums). The facial animations and lip sync are specifically mentioned as flawed and unconvincing (Eurogamer Italy, Adventure Gamers). The graphics are also criticized for looking like they belong to a last-gen title, with low-poly characters, limited animations, and lack of textures (AusGamers). The visuals are described as blurry, with occasional texture pop-in and muddy textures (TrueAchievements, GameSpace). The Nintendo Switch version is particularly singled out for having noticeable downgrades in graphics, constant blurriness, poor textures, and long loading times (Jeuxvideo.com, Hobby Consolas). The character models are often described as weird, dated, and resembling ventriloquist dummies (VideoGamer, Cubed3). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that while Call of Cthulhu manages to create a strong and immersive atmosphere, the Graphics and Visual Design fall short in several aspects. The game's art direction, attention to detail in the environments, and effective use of lighting and shadowing techniques are praised by some critics (Gameblog.fr, Ragequit.gr, Push Square). However, the outdated graphics, poor character models, stiff animations, and flawed facial animations are major points of criticism (Softpedia, GamingTrend, Game Rant, Eurogamer Italy, Adventure Gamers). The Nintendo Switch version is specifically mentioned as having noticeable downgrades and technical issues (Jeuxvideo.com, Hobby Consolas). While some critics appreciate the game's visuals for capturing the Lovecraftian spirit and creating a creepy atmosphere, the overall sentiment is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Call of Cthulhu could have been improved to match the expectations of a game released in 2018 (Gameplanet, PCWorld).

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on the sound design and music of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game. Positives include immersive atmosphere and eerie music, while negatives point to subpar voice acting. Overall, most reviewers praise the sound for enhancing the game's atmosphere, despite some flaws in voice acting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the sound design and music of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Starting with the positives, several critics praised the immersive atmosphere created by the sound design and music. Gameblog.fr commends the well-crafted sound design, which includes atmospheric sounds that immerse players in the psychological tension of the game. Press Start Australia describes the sound design as stellar, with a haunting, eerie, and suspenseful score. The Overpowered Noobs and Impulsegamer both highlight the fantastic and eerie music that adds to the Lovecraftian atmosphere. Additionally, Generación Xbox praises the sound for effectively capturing the essence of Lovecraft's universe, while Eurogamer Italy mentions the effective use of music and sound effects to create palpable tension and a sense of unease. Moving on to the negatives, some critics expressed concerns about the voice acting in Call of Cthulhu. Game Rant and DarkStation both criticize the voice acting, with the former describing it as substandard and the latter stating that the rest of the game's sonic landscape feels underdeveloped. Digital Chumps goes as far as describing the voice acting as mortifying. Additionally, GameSpace mentions occasional inconsistencies in voice acting, while Gameplanet criticizes the protagonist's voice acting for feeling forced and lacking impact. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side, with many praising the sound design and music for enhancing the immersive atmosphere of the game. Jeuxvideo.com, in particular, highlights the well-done sound design that contributes to the oppressive atmosphere, while FANDOM commends the strong voice acting that contributes to the terrifying tone. The general sentiment is that the sound design and music effectively create tension, enhance the horror experience, and add to the overall atmosphere of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game. However, there are some criticisms regarding inconsistent voice acting and missed opportunities to fully develop the sonic landscape.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on the voice acting in Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game. Some praise it for enhancing the atmosphere and bringing characters to life, while others criticize it for inconsistencies and lacking emotional depth. It's a mixed bag of strong performances and weaknesses, leaving the overall quality up for debate.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game are quite varied. Several critics, such as GameSpace, Jeuxvideo.com, NintendoWorldReport, Press Start Australia, TheXboxHub, Adventure Gamers, DarkStation, Gameblog.fr, Gaming Nexus, GamingTrend, and FANDOM, praise the voice acting in the game. They mention that the voice acting is strong, well done, excellent, and enhances the overall atmosphere and immersion of the game. Standout performances from certain actors, such as those who portray Dr. Colden and Edward Pierce, are also highlighted. These positive opinions suggest that the voice acting in Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game successfully brings the characters to life and contributes to the overall experience. However, there are also critics who have negative opinions about the voice acting in the game. Game Rant describes the voice acting as substandard, with performances that sound forced. Nintendojo criticizes the voice acting as uneven and inconsistent. GameSpot and Variety both mention that the voice acting is not as hammy as expected given the setting, but it lacks emotional resonance and can be described as hammy. PC Invasion and VideoGamer mention that the voice acting varies, with some characters not sounding as believable or lacking personality. These negative opinions highlight the weaknesses in the voice acting, such as inconsistencies, forced performances, lack of emotional depth, and lack of impact. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game is a mixed bag. While there are strong performances and well-done voice acting that enhance the immersion and atmosphere of the game, there are also inconsistencies and weaknesses in certain performances. The positive opinions from critics like Adventure Gamers, TheXboxHub, and FANDOM indicate that the voice acting successfully portrays the characters and contributes to the terrifying tone of the game. However, the negative opinions from critics like Game Rant, Nintendojo, and Variety highlight the substandard performances, unevenness, and lack of emotional resonance in the voice acting. Ultimately, it seems that the quality of the voice acting in Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game may vary depending on the specific characters and performances, with some being more convincing and impactful than others.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game's technical performance varies on different platforms. Nintendo Switch version is solid with minor sacrifices, Xbox One has steady framerate, PC runs smoothly with fine tuning, and PS4 Pro maintains stable performance. However, all platforms face issues like long loading times, frame rate drops, and graphical imperfections. Critics highlight specific flaws like low-poly characters and stiff animations, but some mention overall stability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

28%

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

The Technical Performance of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game varies across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, the Nintendo Switch version of the game, according to Everyeye.it, is considered solid and enjoyable, with minor sacrifices in texture and sharpness. Multiplayer.it also mentions that the game maintains good levels of performance and stability on the Nintendo Switch, with no major issues reported. On the Xbox One, Gamers' Temple states that the game has a steady framerate, and Jeuxvideo.com mentions that the game remains stable overall. Moving to the PC version, BaziCenter reports that the game runs smoothly at a consistent frame rate, and ZTGD states that with fine tuning, the game runs well on a GTX 1060 card and i5 6600k processor. Finally, on the PS4, Vandal notes that the game runs at a stable 30 frames per second on PS4 Pro, with clean image quality. However, there are also several negatives regarding the Technical Performance on each gaming platform. The Nintendo Switch version, as mentioned by Cubed3, suffers from low resolution textures, paired back lighting effects, longer loading times, and issues with pre-rendered cutscenes and clipping of clothing. Eurogamer Italy and God is a Geek both mention graphical imperfections, glitches, and long loading times on the Nintendo Switch. Nintendo Life states that the game suffers from technical issues, including lengthy loading screens and framerate issues. On the Xbox One, TrueAchievements reports multiple game crashes, and Xbox Tavern mentions mixed technical performance with stiff character models, iffy framerate, and long load times. Adventure Gamers and PCWorld both note technical shortcomings on the PC version, such as stiff animations, poor lip sync, texture pop-in, and occasional slowdowns. AusGamers describes the PS4 version as a technical mess, with low-poly characters, limited animations, and lack of textures. PlayStation LifeStyle mentions spelling mistakes, poorly proofed subtitles, and unintuitive controls on the PS4. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game has various technical issues across all gaming platforms. Long loading times, occasional frame rate drops, and graphical imperfections are common complaints. However, there are some positive aspects, such as solid performance on the Nintendo Switch, steady framerates on the Xbox One, smooth performance on PC with fine tuning, and stable performance on the PS4 Pro. It is worth noting that while some critics mention specific technical flaws, others state that the game remains stable overall. The technical performance of the game seems to be lacking, with outdated animations, stiff character movements, and occasional glitches mentioned by multiple critics.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on the replay value of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game. Some praise its multiple endings and character options for replayability, while others criticize its lack of impactful choices and rushed pacing. Overall, the game offers mixed replay value with potential for enjoyment for Lovecraft fans, but may not fully deliver on its promise of keeping players coming back for more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

10%

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (0-49)

31%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game are varied. Some critics, such as Multiplayer.it and GameSpace, highlight the game's multiple endings and collectibles as factors that contribute to its replay value. These elements provide players with the incentive to explore different paths and make different choices in order to experience the various outcomes. Additionally, critics like Nintendojo and GameGrin appreciate the game's dialogue options and character build options, which add depth to the gameplay and encourage replayability. On the other hand, several critics express concerns about the limited replay value of the game. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Nintenderos mention that while the game offers alternative endings, the overall experience may not be compelling enough to entice players to replay it. The lack of impactful choices and consequences, as noted by Variety and FANDOM, also diminishes the replayability of the game. Additionally, critics such as GameSpot and GameWatcher criticize the rushed pacing and unsatisfying second half of the game, which further detracts from its replay value. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Call of Cthulhu: The Official Video Game has mixed replay value. While some aspects, such as multiple endings, character progression, and different paths, contribute to the game's replayability, there are concerns about the limited impact of choices, linear storytelling, and short duration. Critics like Cubed3 and Digital Chumps highlight the game's potential for high replay value but criticize its failure to fully deliver on this potential. Despite these criticisms, for fans of the Lovecraft universe, the game still offers an enjoyable experience, as mentioned by Vandal. Ultimately, the decision to replay the game may depend on individual preferences and interest in exploring different outcomes and story paths.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

16%

Mixed (50-79)

78%

Negative (0-49)

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

Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the Overall Verdict of Call of Cthulhu are mixed. There are some positive aspects of the game that are highlighted by the critics. Several critics, such as GameSpew and TheXboxHub, praise the game for capturing the essence of Lovecraft's work and creating an atmospheric and engaging experience. The narrative and story are also commended by critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Adventure Gamers. The game's ability to immerse players in the Lovecraftian world is appreciated by critics such as Merlin'in Kazanı and Impulsegamer. The game's atmosphere and intriguing story are mentioned as strengths by critics like God is a Geek and MondoXbox. However, there are also several negative aspects of the game that are pointed out by the critics. Many critics criticize the game for its technical shortcomings, including outdated graphics and technical limitations, as mentioned by Softpedia and Meristation. The gameplay mechanics are also a point of criticism, with critics like Digital Chumps and GameWatcher mentioning sluggish gameplay and limited mechanics. The lack of scares and creepy atmosphere is highlighted by critics such as Game Rant and Metro GameCentral. The game's conclusion is described as prosaic and unworthy of the Lovecraftian horror subgenre by Slant Magazine. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Call of Cthulhu has its strengths in capturing the atmosphere and essence of Lovecraft's work, as well as offering an engaging narrative. However, it falls short in various aspects, including technical performance, gameplay depth, and execution of horror elements. The game is recommended for Lovecraft fans and those who enjoy narrative-driven experiences, but it may not appeal to a wider audience. The overall verdict is that Call of Cthulhu has potential and some enjoyable moments, but it fails to fully deliver on its promise and falls short of being a standout game in the genre.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on Call of Cthulhu. Some praise its Lovecraftian atmosphere and engaging narrative, while others criticize its technical issues, gameplay mechanics, and lack of scares. Recommended for Lovecraft fans, but falls short for a wider audience.

MONSTER

Reviews

115 reviews found

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Oct 29, 2018