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Evil Dead: The Game

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Evil Dead: The Game
Item: Evil Dead: The Game
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Shooter, Horror, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMay 13, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC

DeveloperSaber Interactive

Overview

The game loosely follows the plot of the 1981 film The Evil Dead. You play as Ash Williams as he fights for his life against hoards of Deadites in both the Cabin itself and the woods surrounding it. Over the course of 30 levels, Ash can use the Chainsaw, Boomstick, and an axe to fight through the Deadites and save his friends.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics praise Evil Dead: The Game for capturing the essence of the franchise with its faithful representation and incorporation of key elements. Despite some complaints about the story mode's difficulty and lack of checkpoints, the game offers an immersive experience with 4v1 multiplayer, playable characters, and single-player missions faithful to the films and TV show. Overall, critics agree that the game successfully celebrates the Evil Dead series and provides an enjoyable experience for fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

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 Evil Dead: The Game are generally positive. Many critics, such as Movies Games and Tech, Press Start Australia, and PC Invasion, appreciate how the game represents the Evil Dead franchise. They mention that the game captures the spirit of Evil Dead and pays homage to the series, featuring characters and aspects from various entries, including the original movie, the sequel/semi-remake, the follow-up, and the TV show. The inclusion of major characters from all four entries as playable survivors adds to the appeal of the game. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by critics. Movies Games and Tech points out that the story mode is too difficult, lacking in checkpoints. This can be frustrating for players who are looking for a more balanced and enjoyable experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Evil Dead: The Game successfully celebrates the franchise's story and captures its essence. The game's incorporation of the Evil Dead series' elements, such as the Deadites and the Necronomicon, along with the 4v1 multiplayer format and the inclusion of various playable characters, creates an immersive and engaging experience. The game's single-player missions based on key sequences from the films and show also add to its appeal, providing a good experience for fans of the franchise. Critics like Gaming Nexus and PlayStation Universe highlight how the game captures the spirit of Evil Dead and offers single-player missions that are faithful to the events from the films and show. In conclusion, the Story of Evil Dead: The Game is generally well-received by critics who appreciate its faithful representation of the Evil Dead franchise. While there are some criticisms regarding the difficulty level and lack of checkpoints in the story mode, the overall consensus is that the game successfully pays homage to the series and provides an enjoyable experience for fans.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise Evil Dead: The Game's engaging multiplayer gameplay with balanced battles and teamwork emphasis. However, solo mode lacks balance and can be frustrating. Some compare gameplay to Evolve and note repetitive elements. Overall, the game offers fun and addictive gameplay with weighty combat, different classes, and a compelling asymmetrical multiplayer format. Despite some criticisms, it provides an enjoyable experience for fans of the Evil Dead franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Evil Dead: The Game are generally positive. Many critics highlight the enjoyable and engaging nature of the gameplay, particularly in the multiplayer modes. IGN praises the balanced and compelling battle of wits and reflexes, which kept the reviewer's attention for over 20 hours. Press Start Australia commends the responsive and fast gameplay, emphasizing the importance of well-coordinated teamwork for survival. Xbox Tavern mentions the slow but gratifying combat, with a variety of weapons available. These positive aspects of the gameplay contribute to an overall enjoyable experience for players. However, there are some criticisms and negatives mentioned by the critics. Movies Games and Tech notes that while the multiplayer experience is deep, enjoyable, and challenging, the solo mode lacks balance and can frustrate players. XboxEra compares the gameplay to Evolve and describes it as action-oriented, which may suggest a lack of innovation or uniqueness in the mechanics. Gaming Nexus mentions that the gameplay can become repetitive over time. These criticisms highlight areas where the gameplay could be improved or diversified to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Evil Dead: The Game offers a fun and engaging gameplay experience. Critics such as GameByte and GameSpew describe the gameplay as enjoyable, with different classes, characters, and objectives to choose from. The gameplay loop is addictive, according to Shacknews, and the combat feels weighty and satisfying, as mentioned by Hardcore Gamer. The asymmetrical multiplayer format, where players can take on the role of survivors or the demon, is generally praised for its balance and compelling nature. While there are some criticisms regarding the lack of innovation or variety in gameplay, the overall sentiment is positive, with the gameplay providing a familiar yet enjoyable experience for fans of the Evil Dead franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Evil Dead: The Game for capturing the franchise's essence with stunning graphics and attention to detail. Positive feedback on production values, character models, and creepy environments. However, some critics mention muddy textures, lack of environment variety, and missed DualSense controller potential. Overall, the game excels in bringing Evil Dead to life in a multiplayer setting, despite minor visual criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

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 Evil Dead: The Game are generally positive. Many critics praise the game for its attention to detail and its ability to capture the atmosphere and aesthetic of the Evil Dead franchise. Critics such as Press Start Australia and GameSkinny commend the game for its solid production values and visually impressive character models. DualShockers and GameSpew highlight the stunning graphics and fittingly creepy environments that create a fantastic atmosphere. CGMagazine and Guardian mention the beautifully realized sets and well-designed maps, further adding to the positive reception of the game's visual design. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Evil Dead: The Game. XboxEra criticizes the texture work for the environment and some enemies, describing it as muddy and grimy. Xbox Tavern mentions that while the game captures the atmosphere of 80s slasher flicks, there is a lack of variety in the environments, making them feel less unique. PlayStation Universe notes that the game does not make use of the DualSense controller on PS5, which could have enhanced the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Evil Dead: The Game has commendable graphics and visual design. The game successfully captures the essence of the Evil Dead franchise, with recognizable iconography and settings from across the series. The attention to detail, impressive character models, and atmospheric maps are widely praised. While there are some criticisms regarding texture work, lack of variety in environments, and missed opportunities with the DualSense controller, these issues do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the game's graphics and visual design. Critics such as Movies Games and Tech, GameByte, and Hardcore Gamer highlight the game's ability to translate the vibe of Evil Dead to a multiplayer format and its impressive visuals. In conclusion, Evil Dead: The Game is generally well-regarded for its graphics and visual design, successfully immersing players in the world of the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Evil Dead: The Game's sound design and music receive high praise from critics for their aggressive soundtrack, horrific sound effects, and authentic dialogue. While some criticize the dry voice acting and repetitive dialogue, overall consensus is positive, highlighting the immersive atmosphere and the return of original actors like Bruce Campbell.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Evil Dead: The Game are generally positive. Many critics praise the audio elements of the game, highlighting the aggressive soundtrack, horrific sound effects, and authentic Sam Raimi dialogue. Xbox Achievements and Xbox Tavern both commend the atmospheric music, with Xbox Achievements specifically mentioning the excellent voice work. CGMagazine, however, criticizes the voice acting for being dry and lacking excitement. Despite this, Comicbook.com, Gaming Nexus, and GameByte all appreciate the voice acting, with Comicbook.com specifically praising Bruce Campbell's return as Ash Williams. PC Invasion also notes the love for the franchise in the sound design, with original actors returning to supply voices. The overall consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Evil Dead: The Game are well-executed, creating a tense and immersive atmosphere. While the majority of critics have positive opinions about the Sound Design and Music of Evil Dead: The Game, there are some negatives mentioned. CGMagazine criticizes the voice acting for being dry and lacking excitement, which may impact the overall immersion for some players. Hardcore Gamer also mentions the repetitive dialogue, which can become redundant over time. However, these negative aspects are outweighed by the positive feedback from other critics, indicating that the overall quality of the sound design and music is still considered strong. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Evil Dead: The Game are impressive. The aggressive soundtrack, horrific sound effects, and authentic dialogue contribute to the immersive experience praised by many reviewers. The return of original actors, such as Bruce Campbell, adds to the authenticity and charm of the game. While there are some criticisms, such as the dry voice acting and repetitive dialogue, the positive feedback from the majority of critics suggests that the sound design and music successfully capture the atmosphere and essence of the Evil Dead franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics generally praise the voice acting in Evil Dead: The Game, especially Bruce Campbell's return as Ash Williams. While some criticize the dryness and lack of iconic one-liners, overall, the voice acting adds authenticity and enhances the game experience for fans of the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Evil Dead: The Game receives a generally positive response from the critics. Bruce Campbell's return as Ash Williams is widely praised, with critics such as Xbox Achievements, GameByte, and Gaming Nexus commending his performance. They highlight his charm, integrity, and the way he brings the character to life with authenticity and love for the franchise. Additionally, PC Invasion notes that the inclusion of original actors returning to supply voices adds to the game's authenticity and enhances the overall experience. The presence of other cast members from the films and show, as mentioned by GameByte, also adds to the appreciation from fans. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting in Evil Dead: The Game. CGMagazine mentions that the voice acting is criticized for being dry and lacking excitement. DualShockers notes that while the voice acting for the characters, including Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams, is generally praised, there is a lack of Ash's famous zingers, which may disappoint fans who were expecting more of his iconic one-liners. Hardcore Gamer points out that the voice acting, while good, becomes redundant due to repetitive dialogue, which may result in a less engaging experience for players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Evil Dead: The Game is a positive aspect of the game. The return of Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams is particularly appreciated, with critics praising his performance and the way he embodies the character. The inclusion of other original actors and soundalikes also adds to the authenticity and love for the franchise. While there are some criticisms regarding dryness, lack of excitement, and repetitive dialogue, these issues do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the voice acting. Fans of the Evil Dead series will likely find enjoyment in the performances and the way they contribute to the immersive experience of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Critics had mixed opinions on the technical performance of Evil Dead: The Game. Some praised smooth gameplay on PS5 and bug-free experience on PC, while others criticized clunkiness, glitches, and connectivity issues on Xbox Series X and PC. Overall, there's a need for patches to address gameplay problems and bugs across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

71%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of technical performance on Xbox Series X, the critics had mixed opinions. IGN and Movies Games and Tech both mentioned issues with clunkiness, glitches, and gameplay problems, such as getting trapped in the scenery. However, Press Start Australia highlighted the game's robust and cross-play enabled netcode, with only minor issues like delayed button prompts. Slant Magazine, on the other hand, criticized the game for a litany of bugs and technical issues that can hinder multiplayer matches and XP progression. Despite these negatives, GRYOnline.pl praised the PC version for being free of irritating bugs and performing as expected, while GameWatcher described the PC version as running well with occasional glitches and hit-and-miss matchmaking. Moving on to the PC platform, CGMagazine mentioned some bugs and rough edges, such as characters popping out of vehicles without animation and glitches with item interactions. Checkpoint Gaming also noted occasional freezes and glitches that can affect gameplay. GameByte criticized the game for technical and design issues, including slow progression, XP reward problems, and bugs that cause players to get stuck or lose functionality. PC Invasion mentioned some strange quirks, such as options being impossible to turn off and resolution issues, but overall found the game enjoyable. On the PlayStation 5, the critics generally had more positive experiences with the technical performance of Evil Dead: The Game. Hardcore Gamer praised the game for running consistently at 60 FPS on PS5 and having consistent connectivity for online play. Comicbook.com mentioned some movement hang-ups but overall found the game to play relatively smoothly. PlayStation LifeStyle and PlayStation Universe did not mention any specific technical issues, while Push Square and Shacknews noted the presence of bugs and glitches that can inhibit gameplay sessions. Wccftech described the game's performance on PS5 as smooth with only a few small issues mentioned. Overall, the critics' opinions on the technical performance of Evil Dead: The Game varied across platforms. While there were some positive experiences, such as the smooth performance on PS5 and the PC version being free of irritating bugs, there were also numerous reports of clunkiness, glitches, and technical issues on Xbox Series X and PC. The consensus among the critics is that the game has some technical shortcomings that need to be addressed with patches, particularly in terms of gameplay issues, bugs, and connectivity problems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Evil Dead: The Game. Positive aspects include the expansive character progression system, tactical elements, and multiplayer options. However, criticisms include lack of map variety, long match lengths, and repetitive gameplay. Overall, while the game offers some replay value, concerns remain about its longevity and lack of variety.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

19%

Mixed (50-79)

77%

Negative (0-49)

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

Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Evil Dead: The Game are mixed. There are several positive aspects highlighted by the critics. Critics such as Movies Games and Tech, Xbox Achievements, PlayStation LifeStyle, and Guardian mention the expansive character progression system and the ability to unlock new powers and abilities for both survivors and demons, which adds replay value to the game. The tactical elements and the option to experiment with different characters and abilities are also mentioned as positive aspects by critics like Gaming Nexus and Shacknews. The inclusion of single-player missions, as mentioned by XboxEra, CGMagazine, and PlayStation Universe, is seen as a way to unlock additional content and characters for multiplayer, providing replay value for players. Additionally, the potential for multiplayer pleasures and the ability to play with friends are highlighted by critics such as Xbox Tavern and Comicbook.com. However, there are also negative aspects mentioned by the critics. The lack of map variety, as mentioned by GameSkinny and COGconnected, is seen as a drawback that can negatively impact replayability. The long match lengths, lack of checkpoints in single-player missions, and the repetitive nature of the gameplay during longer sessions, as mentioned by GameByte, TheSixthAxis, and GRYOnline.pl, are also seen as negative aspects that can hinder the replay value of the game. Concerns about the game's longevity and the need for more maps and single-player content are raised by critics such as PC Invasion and DualShockers. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Evil Dead: The Game offers some replay value through its character progression system, tactical elements, and the ability to unlock new powers and abilities. The inclusion of single-player missions is seen as a way to unlock additional content and characters for multiplayer, providing replay value for players. However, there are concerns about the lack of map variety, long match lengths, and repetitive gameplay, which may limit the game's replay value. The potential for multiplayer enjoyment and the ability to play with friends are seen as positive aspects that can enhance the overall replay value of the game. The critics also mention the potential for future updates and DLC to address some of the game's shortcomings and improve its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

42%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

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 Evil Dead: The Game are mixed. There are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Critics such as Movies Games and Tech, Press Start Australia, XboxEra, Checkpoint Gaming, GRYOnline.pl, GameByte, GameWatcher, PC Invasion, Comicbook.com, DualShockers, GameSpew, Guardian, Hardcore Gamer, PlayStation LifeStyle, PlayStation Universe, Push Square, Shacknews, and Wccftech all acknowledge the game's fun gameplay, capturing the essence of the Evil Dead franchise, and the enjoyment it brings to fans. The multiplayer experience is particularly praised, with critics like Movies Games and Tech, XboxEra, GameSpew, and Wccftech highlighting the gory fun and unique features of playing as both the survivor and demon. The dedication and love for the franchise evident in the gameplay, characters, and sound design are also commended by PC Invasion and Hardcore Gamer. However, there are also several negative aspects mentioned by the critics. IGN, Slant Magazine, Xbox Achievements, GameSkinny, Xbox Tavern, CGMagazine, DualShockers, and Wccftech all point out technical issues, glitches, lack of polish, and clunkiness as drawbacks of Evil Dead: The Game. The single-player missions are criticized by IGN, Xbox Tavern, Push Square, and Wccftech for being disappointing, formulaic, and glitchy. Lack of content is a common concern raised by IGN, Slant Magazine, GameSkinny, and Wccftech. Repetitive objectives, lack of variation, and imbalance are mentioned by Xbox Achievements and COGconnected as potential drawbacks. In terms of the overall consensus of the critics, it is evident that while there are positive aspects, there are also significant concerns and criticisms. The game is generally praised for its fun gameplay, capturing the spirit of Evil Dead, and providing an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise. However, technical issues, lack of polish, clunkiness, and lack of content are recurring criticisms. The multiplayer experience is often highlighted as a strong point, while the single-player missions are often seen as a weak aspect. The potential for future support, updates, and patches is mentioned by Press Start Australia, Slant Magazine, GameSkinny, and Wccftech, indicating that improvements could be made to address some of the concerns raised by the critics. Overall, the consensus seems to be that Evil Dead: The Game has its merits but falls short in certain areas, making it a more enjoyable experience for diehard fans of the franchise rather than a universally appealing title.

TL;DR

Critics are divided on Evil Dead: The Game. Positives include fun gameplay and capturing the essence of the franchise, especially in multiplayer. However, technical issues, lack of polish, and repetitive content are drawbacks. The game is praised for its fan service but criticized for its flaws. Some hope for future updates to address concerns. Overall, while it caters to diehard fans, it may not appeal to everyone.

MONSTER

Reviews

135 reviews found

GameSpew

PlayStation 5

May 20, 2022

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

The review praises Evil Dead: The Game as a favorite 4v1 horror title, with both survivor and demon gameplay being described as huge amounts of gory fun. The limited field of view and lack of checkpoints in single-player content are mentioned as downsides.

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Shacknews

PlayStation 5

May 28, 2022

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

Evil Dead: The Game is a fun and addictive experience with beautiful visuals and attention to detail, despite some bugs and glitches.

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GRYOnline.pl

Jun 9, 2022

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

The overall verdict is positive, with the game receiving a score of 8.5 out of 10.

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Checkpoint Gaming

May 20, 2022

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

Evil Dead: The Game is a blast and a must-play for fans of the series. While it has some flaws, the dedication put into the game is evident.

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PC Invasion

May 17, 2022

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

The game is described as a legitimately good Evil Dead game, with a love for the franchise evident in the gameplay, characters, and sound design. The gameplay is enjoyable, and the game is fully featured with good replay value. The PC version has some technical quirks, but overall, it is a blast to play.

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GameWatcher

May 18, 2022

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The review praises the game for its understanding of the source material, fun gameplay, and lack of manipulative practices.

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Comicbook.com

PlayStation 5

May 22, 2022

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

The review gives the game a rating of 4 out of 5 and considers it one of the more pleasant surprises of the year so far.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 5

May 16, 2022

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

The game is praised as one of the best and biggest surprises of 2022 so far, with enough quirks and unique features to stand out. However, concerns are raised about the online-only infrastructure and the lack of offline playability.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Jun 3, 2022

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

Evil Dead: The Game is an excellent horror title with a brilliant multiplayer experience, but the solo mode could be improved.

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VG247

PlayStation 5

May 17, 2022

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

Evil Dead: The Game is a good time for fans of the series, but horror fans without an affinity towards the series may find more fun and accessibility-friendly alternatives.

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