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El Paso, Elsewhere

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of El Paso, Elsewhere
Item: El Paso, Elsewhere
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAction, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 26, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox One

DeveloperStrange Scaffold

Overview

Fight werewolves and vampires in a reality-shifting motel. Dive through barricades to escape the grasp of evil puppets. Destroy the villain you loved. A new, third-person love letter to classic shooters. Neo-noir never looked so good.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere receives high praise for its emotionally resonant storytelling and nuanced themes like abuse and addiction, with critics highlighting its clever, pulp fiction-inspired narrative and a compelling love story. While some point out occasional pacing issues and moments where execution falls flat, the overall consensus is that its rich character exploration and dark themes create a standout, poignant gaming experience. A must-play for those who value deep narratives in their adventures.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The consensus among critics regarding the story of El Paso, Elsewhere is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its depth and emotional resonance. Reviewers such as The Jimquisition and Cultured Vultures commend the game for its sensitive portrayal of heavy themes like abusive relationships and addiction, suggesting it brings a level of nuance rarely seen in video games. The narrative structure, described as well-crafted and beautifully told by TheXboxHub, is noted for its clever writing reminiscent of pulp fiction, while critics like GameSpot and Digital Chumps appreciate the compelling love story between a vampire hunter and his ex-girlfriend, Draculae. The emotional weight of the protagonist's journey, as highlighted by Destructoid and Hardcore Gamer, adds layers to the gameplay experience, making it not just a monster-slaying adventure but a poignant exploration of personal demons. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out that the story can feel underwhelming at times. For instance, TRG mentioned that while the visuals and poetic script are commendable, they sometimes struggle to elevate the narrative to the heights expected. TechRadar Gaming echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the monologues, though trippy and visually engaging, may not always resonate as strongly as intended. This indicates that while the story is rich in themes and character dynamics, there are moments where it may falter in execution, leaving some players wanting more. Overall, the critics agree that El Paso, Elsewhere delivers a compelling narrative that stands out in the gaming landscape. The majority view it as a well-executed blend of dark themes and engaging storytelling, with unique elements that keep players invested. The emotional depth and character exploration are frequently praised, as noted by critics like God is a Geek and Noisy Pixel, who emphasize the raw humanity depicted through the protagonist's struggles. While there are minor criticisms regarding pacing and execution, the prevailing sentiment is that the story is a significant strength of the game, making it a noteworthy experience for players seeking a narrative-rich adventure.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere serves up a thrilling mix of nostalgia and engaging mechanics reminiscent of Max Payne, with critics lauding its slow-motion combat and exciting resource management. However, the gameplay is marred by repetition, bland level design, and easily defeated enemies, leading to a split in reception. While some revel in its fast-paced action, others find it lacking in depth and challenge, making it a hit or miss for players seeking more complexity. Ultimately, it’s a title that balances enjoyable gameplay with significant flaws, leaving fans to weigh its nostalgic charm against its shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of El Paso, Elsewhere has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly highlighting its engaging mechanics and nostalgic references to classic titles like Max Payne. Reviewers such as TheXboxHub and XboxAddict praised the fun and excitement generated by slow-motion attacks and health management through pill collection, emphasizing the satisfying nature of the combat. Eurogamer echoed this sentiment by describing the gameplay as a thrilling challenge with satisfying combat and a variety of weapons, while Hardcore Gamer noted the fun, fast-paced action and well-designed levels that encourage strategic resource management. The bullet-time mechanic, which allows players to slow down time during combat, has been consistently recognized as a stylish and enjoyable addition to the gameplay, with critics like Press Start Australia highlighting its contribution to the overall intensity of the experience. However, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the gameplay. The Jimquisition described the experience as repetitive and janky, criticizing the basic third-person shooter mechanics and a lack of variety in enemy types and level design. Destructoid echoed this concern, stating that while the game offers a twist on Max Payne, it ultimately falls short due to bland levels and a less engaging enemy design. Critics like New Game Network and Digital Trends also noted the cookie-cutter nature of the gameplay, with some suggesting that the simplicity could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming and TRG pointed out that the combat lacks challenge, with enemies being easily defeated and a slight difficulty curve that may leave some players wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment regarding the gameplay of El Paso, Elsewhere. While many appreciate the nostalgic elements and engaging mechanics, others criticize the repetitive nature and lack of challenge. Critics like Cultured Vultures and GameGrin acknowledged the enjoyable aspects of the gameplay, but they also recognized the mixed quality of level design and enemy variety. The game seems to appeal to those who enjoy straightforward, fast-paced action reminiscent of classic shooters, but it may not satisfy players seeking depth and complexity in gameplay. As a result, El Paso, Elsewhere stands as a title with both commendable strengths and notable weaknesses, leaving it to the players to decide if its nostalgic appeal outweighs its shortcomings.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere impresses with its nostalgic low-poly graphics and vibrant, surreal visuals that enhance its dreamlike atmosphere, earning praise from critics for its unique aesthetic. However, some reviewers criticize its early 2000s style for being flat and potentially repetitive, arguing it sacrifices detail and depth. Overall, the game successfully balances homage and innovation, creating a distinct visual identity that complements its narrative, despite mixed feelings about its execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of El Paso, Elsewhere have garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting the game's unique aesthetic choices. Many reviewers appreciate the intentional low-poly graphics that evoke nostalgia for earlier gaming eras, particularly the PlayStation 1 and 2, as noted by XboxAddict and God is a Geek. The game’s visuals are often described as arresting and immersive, with The Jimquisition praising the “garish and alien” color palette that evolves throughout gameplay. Critics like Gfinity and TechRadar Gaming commend the vibrant neon lighting and surreal aesthetics, which enhance the game's dreamlike atmosphere. The environments are characterized as disjointed yet haunting, effectively contributing to the overall mood, as highlighted by Xbox Tavern and Digital Trends. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the visual design that cannot be overlooked. Some reviewers, such as ZTGD and Gaming Age, express dissatisfaction with the early 2000s graphics style, suggesting that it may not appeal to all players and can lead to a sense of repetitiveness. Destructoid points out a lack of verticality and engaging set pieces within the environments, describing them as somewhat flat and bland. Additionally, while many appreciate the low-poly aesthetic, others argue that it sacrifices detail and depth, resulting in visuals that may blend together over time, as mentioned by New Game Network. Overall, the consensus among critics is that El Paso, Elsewhere successfully creates a distinct visual identity that resonates with its narrative and thematic elements. While the low-poly graphics and retro-inspired design evoke a sense of nostalgia, they also serve to enhance the surreal and abstract qualities of the game’s world, as noted by GameSpot and Press Start Australia. Despite some criticisms regarding the dated visuals and potential repetitiveness, the game’s unique style and atmospheric presentation have been widely praised, suggesting that it effectively strikes a balance between homage and innovation in its visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere nails its sound design and music, with critics raving about its dynamic rap soundtrack that enhances the game’s mood. Reviewers hail it as one of the best soundtracks of the year, perfectly complementing the intense action with a mix of techno, rock, and hip-hop. Voice acting also shines, adding emotional depth to characters. However, minor drawbacks like pop-in issues, occasional sound cut-offs, and some repetitive tracks slightly mar the experience. Overall, the game’s audio brilliance vastly outweighs its flaws, making it a standout in the gaming world.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of El Paso, Elsewhere have garnered widespread acclaim among critics, with many highlighting the standout elements that enhance the overall gaming experience. Reviewers such as The Jimquisition and TheXboxHub praised the rap soundtrack for its ability to reinforce the game's mood and themes, with TheXboxHub calling it "one of the best soundtracks around." Critics like Hardcore Gamer and ZTGD echoed this sentiment, describing the music as pulse-pounding and a perfect fit for the intense action, with a mix of techno, rock, and hip-hop beats that keep the gameplay engaging. The voice acting also received high marks, with multiple critics noting its quality and how it breathes life into the characters, as highlighted by But Why Tho? and GameSpot, who emphasized the emotional depth conveyed through the performances. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics did note a few drawbacks. XboxAddict mentioned issues with pop-in and screen tearing, which could detract from the immersive experience that the sound design aims to create. New Game Network pointed out that while the pulsating soundtrack generally fits the action, some rap tracks felt out of place, and there were instances of sound cutting off during certain levels. TechRadar Gaming also noted that while the exhilarating music adds to the experience, the blasting could become repetitive as the story progresses, indicating a potential lack of variety in the audio landscape. Overall, the consensus among critics is that El Paso, Elsewhere excels in its sound design and music, with the majority praising the innovative hip-hop soundtrack and strong voice acting that contribute significantly to the game's atmosphere. Critics like Gfinity and Digital Chumps emphasized how the music complements the gameplay and narrative themes, enhancing the overall experience. While there are minor criticisms regarding specific audio issues and repetitiveness, the general sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with many considering the soundtrack to be one of the year's best in video games.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in El Paso, Elsewhere is widely praised for its emotional depth and engaging performances, especially by Xalavier Nelson Jr. and Emme Montgomery, which enhance the game's neo-noir atmosphere. Critics highlight its ability to make characters relatable, but some note that the protagonist's lengthy monologues can feel repetitive and detract from enjoyment. Overall, it’s seen as a standout feature that significantly enriches the storytelling, despite pacing concerns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in El Paso, Elsewhere has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its exceptional quality and emotional depth. Reviewers from outlets like The Jimquisition and TheXboxHub highlighted the engaging nature of the performances, noting that the protagonist's monologues and the interplay between characters are particularly captivating. Critics such as But Why Tho? and New Game Network echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the voice acting breathes life into the characters, making them relatable and compelling. The performances by Xalavier Nelson Jr. and Emme Montgomery received specific commendation for their ability to convey complex emotions and relationships, as noted by GameSpot and Press Start Australia. Overall, the voice work is described as bold, clever, and well-executed, contributing significantly to the game's neo-noir atmosphere. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. A few critics, including TechRadar Gaming and TRG, pointed out that the protagonist's excessive monologuing can become tiresome over time, with some lengthy soliloquies feeling repetitive and detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game. This criticism suggests that while the voice acting is strong, the delivery and pacing of the dialogue may not resonate with all players, potentially leading to a diminishing impact as the narrative unfolds. Despite the high quality of the performances, this aspect of the voice work has been a notable point of contention among reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in El Paso, Elsewhere is a standout feature of the game, with the majority praising its quality and effectiveness in enhancing the storytelling. The performances are lauded for their ability to convey a mix of humor, drama, and emotional depth, as seen in the reviews from Hardcore Gamer and Slant Magazine. While some concerns about the pacing and length of monologues were raised, these critiques do not overshadow the general appreciation for the voice work. The positive reception indicates that the voice acting is a significant asset to the game, contributing to its immersive experience and engaging narrative.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere delivers a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. The PlayStation 5 offers a polished experience, while the Xbox Series X and S are plagued by major glitches and issues like disappearing enemies and screen tearing. The PC version sees a divide, with some enjoying smooth gameplay and others encountering significant bugs. Overall, critics highlight the game's inconsistent performance, depending heavily on the platform, making it a risky play for gamers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of El Paso, Elsewhere varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, both Digital Chumps and PlayStation Universe highlighted a generally polished experience, indicating that the game runs well even during intense moments, with Digital Chumps specifically commending the stability of the performance despite some minor visual limitations. On the PC front, TechRadar Gaming and TRG reported smooth gameplay experiences without encountering bugs, suggesting that the game can perform adequately under certain conditions. GameGrin also noted that while there were minor performance issues, they were mostly negligible, indicating that some players may have a satisfactory experience on this platform. However, the negatives for each platform are quite pronounced. On the Xbox Series X, The Jimquisition and ZTGD both pointed out significant glitches, such as wonky physics and instances of disappearing enemies, with The Jimquisition mentioning a major bug that rendered a level unwinnable. XboxAddict's experience on the Xbox Series S was marred by pop-in and screen tearing, which detracts from the overall experience. On PC, while some reviewers like TechRadar Gaming had a smooth experience, others like Digital Trends and Hardcore Gamer reported various glitches, including wonky hit detection and disappearing bosses. Eurogamer highlighted performance issues when the game overwhelmed the system, further contributing to the negative sentiment around the game's technical performance on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide in experiences across platforms. While the PlayStation 5 seems to deliver a more stable performance, the Xbox Series X and S suffer from notable technical issues that hinder gameplay. The PC version shows a wider range of experiences, from smooth gameplay to significant bugs and performance limitations. Critics like The Jimquisition and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the game's technical shortcomings, while others like TechRadar Gaming and TRG find it playable under certain conditions. This disparity suggests that while El Paso, Elsewhere has the potential for enjoyable gameplay, its technical performance is inconsistent and heavily reliant on the platform being used.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

El Paso, Elsewhere garners mixed reviews on replay value. Critics like Eurogamer and Slant Magazine praise its engaging mechanics and level design, suggesting players may return for the thrill. However, concerns about repetitive environments and straightforward gameplay from sources like Gaming Age and TechRadar Gaming warn that these issues could dampen long-term interest. Overall, the game shows promise but faces significant criticisms that could limit its replay appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of El Paso, Elsewhere present a mixed but somewhat optimistic view from several critics. Eurogamer highlights the thrill of gameplay mechanics such as juggling ammo and bullet-time, suggesting that these elements contribute positively to the game's replay value. Similarly, Slant Magazine appreciates the game's design, noting that the brief levels and diverse mechanics encourage players to revisit the game for more satisfying slow-motion action. PlayStation Universe also points out that the gameplay loop promotes exploration and backtracking, which can reward players and enhance replayability. These insights indicate that there are engaging aspects of the game that can keep players returning for more. Conversely, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value. Gaming Age argues that the repetitive nature of environments and enemies may hinder long-term enjoyment, emphasizing the importance of the initial level's appeal. TechRadar Gaming reinforces this sentiment by stating that the straightforward combat and lengthy monologues could diminish player engagement over time. TRG and Digital Chumps also echo the notion that the game lacks significant replayability due to its straightforward mechanics and narrative structure. These critiques suggest that while the game has enjoyable moments, its repetitiveness could deter players from revisiting it frequently. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided opinion on the replay value of El Paso, Elsewhere. While some, like Eurogamer and Slant Magazine, find reasons to return to the game due to its engaging mechanics and level design, others, including Gaming Age and TechRadar Gaming, caution against its repetitive elements that may limit long-term engagement. The varying perspectives indicate that while there are redeeming qualities that could entice players back, significant concerns about repetitiveness and straightforward gameplay mechanics persist, leading to an overall sentiment that is cautiously optimistic but ultimately mixed.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for "El Paso, Elsewhere" present a largely positive sentiment, highlighting several key strengths of the game. Critics have praised its compelling narrative and unique storytelling, with The Jimquisition calling it a "brilliant piece of media" and But Why Tho? noting its "remarkable fusion of narrative depth and engaging gameplay." The game’s visuals and audio design have also received accolades; Xbox Tavern emphasized its "confident visual and audio delivery," while Eurogamer described it as "stylish, clever, and striking." The gameplay, particularly the slow-motion action, has been noted for its enjoyment factor, with TheXboxHub stating that it "never gets old." Furthermore, the game is seen as a nostalgic homage to the Max Payne series, which Hardcore Gamer and PC Games both highlighted as a significant influence on its design. Despite the numerous praises, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses that detract from the overall experience. Technical issues have been mentioned by XboxAddict, who noted that the game is worth checking out despite these flaws. Critics like Xbox Tavern and God is a Geek pointed out issues with pacing and gameplay mechanics, with the latter describing the gameplay as "dated." Additionally, some reviewers, such as TechRadar Gaming and TRG, criticized the game for excessive monologuing and a lack of challenge, which may not appeal to all players. The gameplay has also been described as repetitive by critics like PC Games, indicating that while the game starts strong, it may lose its appeal over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "El Paso, Elsewhere" is a memorable and engaging title that successfully marries style with substance, despite its shortcomings. The game's narrative depth and unique aesthetic have been widely appreciated, with many reviewers recommending it for fans of the genre. Gfinity even labeled it as one of the best shooters in recent years, while Destructoid emphasized the lasting impact of its impressive story. While the gameplay may not be perfect and some technical aspects require attention, the general sentiment leans towards a positive reception, making it a noteworthy entry in the indie shooter landscape of 2023.

TL;DR

"El Paso, Elsewhere" garners strong praise for its compelling narrative, stylish visuals, and engaging gameplay, with critics deeming it a standout indie shooter. While it pays homage to Max Payne and offers enjoyable slow-motion action, issues like technical glitches, pacing problems, and repetitiveness hold it back. Despite these flaws, the game is recommended for genre fans and recognized as a memorable title in 2023.

MONSTER

Reviews

50 reviews found

Noisy Pixel

Sep 26, 2023