80
MONSTER
The year is 1990. Edward Crow has disappeared. The owner of 'Crow Country', he has not been seen since he unexpectedly shut down his park two years ago. The silence is broken when a mysterious young woman named Mara Forest ventures into the heart of the abandoned theme park in order to find him.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
Expand for full analysis
86
In the Story of Crow Country, critics praise the engaging narrative, unique twists, and dark humor that keep players hooked. While some critics raised concerns about pacing and gameplay mechanics, the overwhelming consensus is positive, with reviewers lauding the captivating storytelling and immersive experience. Despite minor flaws, Crow Country stands out as a compelling and refreshingly unfamiliar title in the survival horror genre.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
86
Positive (80-100)
84%
Mixed (50-79)
16%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
In the Story of Crow Country, critics praise the engaging narrative, unique twists, and dark humor that keep players hooked. While some critics raised concerns about pacing and gameplay mechanics, the overwhelming consensus is positive, with reviewers lauding the captivating storytelling and immersive experience. Despite minor flaws, Crow Country stands out as a compelling and refreshingly unfamiliar title in the survival horror genre.
Gameplay Mechanics
Expand for full analysis
82
Critics praise Crow Country for its mix of old-school and modern mechanics, challenging puzzles, and survival horror vibes. Some highlight its balance between retro and modern controls, expansive environments, and replay value. However, critics criticize its awkward combat mechanics and easy gameplay that may reduce tension. Overall, Crow Country successfully blends classic survival horror with modern elements, offering engaging gameplay, interactive environments, and a nostalgic experience despite some flaws in combat controls.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
82
Positive (80-100)
68%
Mixed (50-79)
32%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
Critics praise Crow Country for its mix of old-school and modern mechanics, challenging puzzles, and survival horror vibes. Some highlight its balance between retro and modern controls, expansive environments, and replay value. However, critics criticize its awkward combat mechanics and easy gameplay that may reduce tension. Overall, Crow Country successfully blends classic survival horror with modern elements, offering engaging gameplay, interactive environments, and a nostalgic experience despite some flaws in combat controls.
Graphics and Visual Design
Expand for full analysis
82
Critics largely praise Crow Country's graphics for its detailed environments, retro-inspired aesthetics, and nostalgic PS1 era feel, creating a unique and immersive visual experience. Some critics note negatives like childish art design and visibility issues in low lighting, but overall, the game successfully blends retro charm with modern sensibilities to capture a haunting atmosphere.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
82
Positive (80-100)
68%
Mixed (50-79)
32%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
Critics largely praise Crow Country's graphics for its detailed environments, retro-inspired aesthetics, and nostalgic PS1 era feel, creating a unique and immersive visual experience. Some critics note negatives like childish art design and visibility issues in low lighting, but overall, the game successfully blends retro charm with modern sensibilities to capture a haunting atmosphere.
Music and Sound Design
Expand for full analysis
85
Critics raved about the Sound Design and Music of Crow Country, praising its quality and effectiveness in enhancing the gaming experience. The haunting soundtrack by composer Ockeroid drew comparisons to classic horror games, while the ambient tracks and retro-inspired audio effects were commended for building tension. Some critics mentioned minor issues like lack of visual cues for offscreen enemies. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the game standing out for its immersive and chilling atmosphere crafted through sound design.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
85
Positive (80-100)
77%
Mixed (50-79)
23%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
Critics raved about the Sound Design and Music of Crow Country, praising its quality and effectiveness in enhancing the gaming experience. The haunting soundtrack by composer Ockeroid drew comparisons to classic horror games, while the ambient tracks and retro-inspired audio effects were commended for building tension. Some critics mentioned minor issues like lack of visual cues for offscreen enemies. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the game standing out for its immersive and chilling atmosphere crafted through sound design.
Voice Acting
NA
TL;DR
voice acting
Description unavailable
Technical Performance
Expand for full analysis
65
Critics praise the well-structured gameplay and smooth controls of Crow Country on PS5, with exciting challenges adding depth. However, technical issues like long loading times and an outdated save system detract from the experience. Across PC and PS5, opinions are mixed, with some encountering minor technical hiccups. Overall, the game shows potential but needs updates to address its shortcomings on both platforms.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
65
Positive (80-100)
14%
Mixed (50-79)
71%
Negative (0-49)
14%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
Critics praise the well-structured gameplay and smooth controls of Crow Country on PS5, with exciting challenges adding depth. However, technical issues like long loading times and an outdated save system detract from the experience. Across PC and PS5, opinions are mixed, with some encountering minor technical hiccups. Overall, the game shows potential but needs updates to address its shortcomings on both platforms.
Replay Value
Expand for full analysis
75
Critics praise Crow Country for its replay value, citing unlockable content, secrets, and special items that encourage multiple playthroughs. However, concerns are raised about issues like disappointing combat and lack of scares that may hinder replayability for some. Overall, the game offers a decent amount of replay value with positive aspects outweighing the negatives, making it engaging for players seeking a nostalgic experience with rewarding puzzles and different gameplay modes.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
75
Positive (80-100)
43%
Mixed (50-79)
57%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
Critics praise Crow Country for its replay value, citing unlockable content, secrets, and special items that encourage multiple playthroughs. However, concerns are raised about issues like disappointing combat and lack of scares that may hinder replayability for some. Overall, the game offers a decent amount of replay value with positive aspects outweighing the negatives, making it engaging for players seeking a nostalgic experience with rewarding puzzles and different gameplay modes.
Overall Verdict
80
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
80
Positive (80-100)
81%
Mixed (50-79)
19%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
Crow Country impresses critics with its successful modernization of classic survival horror elements, offering a captivating story and retro aesthetic. While some critics mention drawbacks like combat issues and lack of challenge, the majority agree that the game provides an immersive experience blending nostalgia with innovation. Overall, Crow Country is celebrated for its engaging gameplay, puzzles, and presentation, making it a standout survival horror game recommended for genre fans and newcomers alike.
80
MONSTER
Reviews
88 reviews found100
Guardian
May 8, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
A real triumph that goes beyond being a mere homage to PS1 era games, offering a chilling and engaging experience
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93
Xbox Tavern
May 8, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Top-tier retro survival horror game with engaging gameplay, puzzles, and presentation. Highly recommended for both genre veterans and newcomers.
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90
Destructoid
May 8, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
One of the best horror games played, impressive without trying too hard, lacks some psychological themes but makes up for it with playfulness and confidence, definitely worth a visit.
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90
IGN Deutschland
May 15, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Well-crafted survival horror experience that pays homage to the genre, must-play for horror game enthusiasts.
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90
Finger Guns
May 8, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country is a near-flawless modernization of survival horror classics, offering a unique and engaging experience that resonates with fans of the genre.
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90
KeenGamer
Jun 13, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country delivers a nostalgic and engaging survival-horror experience with a unique blend of retro and modern elements, making it a highly anticipated and potentially modern classic game.
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90
Siliconera
May 9, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country successfully blends classic and modern elements of survival horror, providing a satisfying and immersive experience for fans of the genre.
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90
TheSixthAxis
Jul 3, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country offers a nostalgic yet innovative gaming experience with a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and good replay value, despite minor issues with aiming and length.
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85
Checkpoint Gaming
May 14, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country successfully blends nostalgic visuals with modern gameplay elements, offering a streamlined survival horror experience that is accessible and enjoyable. The game's faithful visuals, atmospheric design, and unique puzzles contribute to a great gaming experience.
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85
Noisy Pixel
May 8, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Crow Country emerges as a standout survival horror game, blending classic influences with unique innovations in puzzle design and narrative construction. While it excels in creativity and environmental interaction, it is marred by some gameplay mechanics like clunky combat and punishing insta-death puzzles.
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