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MONSTER

Evil West

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Evil West
Item: Evil West
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 22, 2022

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFlying Wild Hog

Overview

A dark menace consumes the Old West. In solo or coop, fight with style in visceral, explosive combat against bloodthirsty monstrosities. Eradicate the vampiric hordes with your lightning-fueled gauntlet and become a Wild West Superhero. In visceral, explosive combat, unleash hell with your firearms, lightning-fueled gauntlet and gadgets. Kill bloodthirsty monstrosities in style as a lone hunter or in co-op with a friend. Explore and fight in a narrative-driven campaign while upgrading your weapons and hunting tools. Unlock new perks to evolve your monster-slaying mastery, crafting your own playstyle to defeat the supernatural hordes.

Elsewhere

7.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Evil West offers a mix of engaging vampire-western lore and creative settings, but critics largely dismiss its narrative as predictable and shallow. While some enjoy the character interactions and find it entertaining, many agree it's merely a backdrop for action, plagued by clichés and a lack of depth. Ultimately, the game's storytelling falls short, leaving players craving a more compelling experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The opinions surrounding the story of Evil West reveal a mixed bag of sentiments, with some reviewers highlighting its engaging and unique elements. Critics like Atomix and Gamer.no praise the narrative for its intriguing blend of vampire lore and western themes, noting that it presents a compelling backdrop for the action. The game’s setting in an alternate late 19th century America, where the Rentier Institute battles against vampiric threats, is appreciated for its creativity and potential to immerse players in a dark, action-heavy world. Additionally, some reviewers, such as PC Invasion and WellPlayed, commend the character interactions and dialogue, suggesting that the story, while not groundbreaking, still manages to entertain and engage players effectively. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with various aspects of the story, often labeling it as predictable, shallow, or cliché. GameMAG and GameSpot describe the narrative as one-dimensional, filled with cringeworthy dialogue and poorly developed characters, which detracts from the overall experience. Many reviews point out that the story serves primarily as a vehicle for action rather than a focal point, with critics like Worth Playing and XboxEra emphasizing its repetitive and uninspired nature. The consensus among these reviewers indicates that while the game has an interesting premise, it ultimately fails to deliver a deep or memorable narrative, with many finding it lacking in originality and sophistication. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a recognition of Evil West’s entertaining yet flawed storytelling. While some reviewers appreciate the unique setting and character dynamics, the majority highlight the narrative's shortcomings, particularly its predictability and lack of depth. Critics such as GameOver.gr and IGN Italia encapsulate this sentiment by noting that the story, while engaging on a superficial level, does not hold up under scrutiny and often feels like a mere backdrop for the gameplay. In conclusion, Evil West presents a narrative that, despite its potential, is marred by clichés and a lack of depth, leaving many players wanting more from its storytelling ambitions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Evil West impresses with its fast-paced and satisfying combat, blending melee and ranged attacks, earning praise for its engaging mechanics from critics. However, it falters due to linearity and repetition, with limited enemy variety and level design leading to a confining experience. While the action is enjoyable, the lack of depth and diversity may leave some players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Evil West has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and the combination of melee and ranged attacks. Many reviewers, such as The Jimquisition and IGN Italia, noted the fast-paced and satisfying nature of the combat, with The Jimquisition describing it as "viscerally gratifying" and IGN Italia emphasizing the action-packed gameplay that evolves throughout the experience. Critics like TrueGaming and XboxAddict appreciated the depth of player control and skill progression, with the latter mentioning the encouragement of an aggressive playstyle. The game’s unique mechanics, such as the electrically charged gauntlet and various weapons, were also recognized for adding layers to the combat experience, making it enjoyable and dynamic. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that hinder the overall gameplay experience. Oyungezer and VG247 emphasized the linearity and repetitiveness of the game, with Oyungezer calling the gameplay "overly linear and repetitive." Many reviewers echoed this sentiment, noting the lack of enemy variety and the frustration caused by monotonous combat mechanics. Critics like Gamer.nl and DualShockers also highlighted the limited level design and the resulting restrictions on exploration, which can lead to a feeling of confinement. The repetitive nature of enemy encounters was a common complaint, with ComicBook and Meristation mentioning that while the combat is enjoyable, it is marred by a lack of diversity in enemy types. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Evil West excels in delivering a fun and engaging combat experience, it suffers from issues related to linearity and repetition. Critics like PC Invasion and Xbox Tavern acknowledged the enjoyable combat mechanics but pointed out that the gameplay lacks the depth and variety needed to maintain interest over time. The game’s strengths lie in its fast-paced action and satisfying combat, as noted by critics like Gfinity and Twinfinite, but the criticisms regarding level design and enemy variety indicate that it may not appeal to all players, particularly those seeking a more expansive and varied gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Evil West impresses with its vibrant art style and captivating environments, earning praise for its artistic direction. However, critics widely criticize its outdated graphics and technical issues, such as poor textures and loading problems, which undermine the experience. While the game has charm and atmosphere, it ultimately falls short of modern AAA standards, leaving many disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The graphics and visual design of Evil West have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics appreciate the game's artistic direction, highlighting its vibrant color palettes and unique settings that evoke a distinct atmosphere. For instance, GamingBolt notes the "visually appealing design with a strong sense of setting," while The Jimquisition commends the "bold art style with saturated colors." The environments are often described as captivating, with Press Start Australia mentioning "captivating environments with vibrant colors and a steampunk aesthetic." Additionally, some reviewers like PC Invasion and WellPlayed emphasize the attention to detail in enemy designs and the overall aesthetic, which aligns well with the game's thematic elements. However, the majority of critics express disappointment regarding the technical execution of the graphics. Many reviewers, including Generación Xbox and GameStar, label the visuals as outdated or reminiscent of previous console generations, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like ComicBook and PC Games point out issues such as poor texture quality, inconsistent character models, and significant loading problems that hinder immersion. Moreover, Metro GameCentral and GameMAG echo sentiments about the lack of originality in design, while Noisy Pixel highlights the shoddy visuals, especially on next-gen consoles. The consensus suggests that while the artistic vision is commendable, the technical aspects fail to meet modern gaming standards. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Evil West presents a visually striking world with a unique artistic style, yet it is hampered by technical shortcomings that prevent it from fully realizing its potential. While some reviewers, like Xbox Tavern and TrueAchievements, find moments of stunning graphics, the overarching sentiment leans toward disappointment regarding the execution. The game is seen as having charm and atmosphere, but many critics agree that it falls short of the expectations set by contemporary AAA titles, with Meristation summarizing the visual design as "competent but modest." This duality in opinions reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, where artistic ambition often clashes with technical limitations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Evil West boasts strong sound effects and an atmospheric soundtrack that enhance gameplay, earning praise from several critics. However, significant technical issues—like audio glitches and inconsistent dialogue quality—plague the experience, leading to a mixed reception. While some elements shine, persistent problems prevent it from achieving a consistently high-quality audio experience, highlighting a need for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Evil West have received a mixed yet generally positive reception from critics. Several reviewers praised the sound effects, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing the gameplay experience. For instance, PC Games noted that the music and sound design create sufficient atmosphere to sustain the game's playtime, while WellPlayed described the audio as crisp and punchy, enhancing the overall experience. Critics like Generación Xbox and Movies Games and Tech also commended the sound design for its ability to elevate the combat experience, with powerful audio that fits the action well. Additionally, PlayStation Country highlighted the excellent dark country soundtrack, which aligns well with the game's thematic elements. Conversely, numerous critiques pointed out significant issues with the sound design and music. Gamer.nl and GamingTrend reported bugs and glitches, including abrupt sound failures and poorly tuned dialogue audio that made voices sound distant and unclear. PlaySense and PLAY! Zine echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the sound design was adequate, it did not stand out as a highlight of the game. Furthermore, TheSixthAxis criticized the voice acting as subpar and not matching the campy tone of the game, which detracted from the overall experience. Other critics, like The Jimquisition and Finger Guns, mentioned persistent audio issues and glitches that disrupted gameplay, indicating a lack of polish in the audio department. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Evil West features commendable sound effects and a decent atmosphere, it is marred by technical issues and inconsistent audio quality. Critics like PC Games and GRYOnline.pl recognized the potential of the sound design to enhance the gaming experience, yet many others pointed out that bugs and poor dialogue tuning hindered the overall impact. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has strong elements in sound design and music, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently high-quality audio experience, leaving room for improvement in future updates or sequels.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Evil West's voice acting divides critics: some hail the main characters' performances as outstanding and immersive, enhancing the game’s charm, while others slam it as subpar and uninspiring, with dull deliveries and cringeworthy dialogue. This polarized reception suggests that while the lead voice work shines, supporting roles fall flat, leaving players split on the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The voice acting in Evil West has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding the performances of the main characters. Notably, reviewers from God is a Geek and Noisy Pixel praised the voice acting as well-executed and outstanding, respectively, with the latter emphasizing that it carries the subpar story. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and XboxAddict echoed this sentiment, highlighting the charismatic performance of Jesse Rentier, which adds charm to the game. Additionally, Meristation noted that the voice acting enhances the characters and overall immersion, while Softpedia described it as stellar, contributing positively to the gaming experience. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the voice acting quality. Gaming Nexus and GamingTrend characterized the performances as lacking and subpar, with dull line deliveries that fail to engage players. Critics like Metro GameCentral described the dialogue as risible, detracting from the overall story quality, while PC Gamer and PC Games criticized the voice acting for being mediocre and filled with cringeworthy expletives. Furthermore, PlayStation Universe noted that the voice work fell below average, lacking the authentic tone expected from an old west setting, which negatively impacted immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a polarized view of the voice acting in Evil West. While some reviewers, such as those from Czech language support and Gamer.no, found the performances convincing and enhancing the storytelling, many others highlighted significant flaws that detracted from the game's overall experience. The disparity in opinions suggests that while the main character's voice acting received commendation, the supporting performances and dialogue quality were often criticized for their lack of depth and engagement. This mixed reception indicates that while some players may appreciate the voice acting, others may find it a notable weakness in the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Evil West delivers a mixed bag in technical performance across platforms. While PC and PS5 show promise with stable frame rates and decent optimization, PS5 users face severe issues like crashes and graphical glitches. Xbox Series X struggles too, especially on Series S. Critics agree that while there's a solid base, the game needs significant polishing and patches to truly shine.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of Evil West varies across platforms, with some positive notes particularly on PC and PS5. Critics like IGN Italia and Eurogamer Poland highlighted that the game runs smoothly on PC with stable frame rates and good optimization, even on mid-range hardware. On PS5, some reviewers, including Atomix and GamingBolt, noted that the game generally performs well, with quality and performance modes available, allowing for a decent gaming experience. Additionally, Press Start Australia praised the game for running remarkably well with only minor audio bugs, indicating that there is a solid foundation in technical performance for PS5 players. However, the negatives are significant, particularly on PS5, where several critics, including ComicBook and Gamer.nl, reported severe technical issues such as frequent crashes, bugs, and graphical problems like screen tearing and hit detection issues. The Xbox Series X also faced criticism, with Generación Xbox pointing out optimization issues, particularly on the Series S, which struggled with resolution and frame rate. On PC, while many reviews noted stable performance, there were still mentions of minor bugs, audio issues, and occasional frame rate drops, as highlighted by GameSpot and PC Gamer, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Evil West suffers from a mixed technical performance across platforms. While PC players generally enjoy a more stable experience, many PS5 users report significant bugs and crashes that hinder gameplay, as expressed by Metro GameCentral and PSX Brasil. Xbox Series X players also experience some performance hiccups, though not as severe as on PS5. The game appears to need further polishing and optimization to meet the expectations of players on all platforms, with many critics indicating that patches could improve the overall experience, as noted by Twinfinite and JeuxActu.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Evil West has potential for replayability with its New Game Plus mode and co-op multiplayer, but critics largely deem it lacking. Reviews highlight its linear structure and repetitive gameplay as major drawbacks, with a lack of side quests and enemy variety making the experience feel monotonous. While some features could extend playtime, they’re not enough to mask the game’s shortcomings, leading to the conclusion that it’s entertaining for a single run but fails to hook players for more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Evil West reveal some positive aspects that critics have noted. Several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and SpazioGames, highlight the inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, which allows players to revisit the game with unlocked abilities and increased difficulty, adding to its longevity. The cooperative multiplayer mode also garners some praise, with critics like DualShockers and Movies Games and Tech acknowledging that it can enhance replayability by allowing players to team up and tackle challenges together. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and TrueGaming, mention that the variety of combat styles and the option to replay missions for collectibles provide incentives for players to return to the game. However, the overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Evil West leans heavily toward the negative. Many critics, including TheGamer and Metro GameCentral, express disappointment with the game's linear structure and repetitive gameplay, which significantly diminish its replayability. The lack of optional content, side quests, and varied enemy encounters are frequently cited as shortcomings, with Gamersky and GamingBolt pointing out that these elements contribute to a feeling of monotony. Furthermore, the absence of matchmaking for the co-op mode, as noted by VG247 and PlaySense, limits the accessibility and appeal of multiplayer play, further restricting replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Evil West offers some features that could enhance replayability, such as the New Game Plus mode and cooperative gameplay, these elements are overshadowed by the game's linearity and repetitive nature. Many reviewers, including Gamer.nl and IGN Italia, suggest that the game is enjoyable for a single playthrough but lacks the depth and variety needed to encourage multiple runs. The sentiment is clear: while there are some redeeming qualities in terms of replay value, they are insufficient to elevate the overall experience, leading to a general feeling that Evil West may not hold players’ interest for long after the initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards Evil West, a number of positive aspects have been highlighted by various critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its engaging combat mechanics, with several noting that it successfully delivers a nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic action games. For instance, TheGamer remarked that Evil West captures the essence of PS2-era games, while IGN Portugal emphasized the engaging gameplay and captivating narrative. Critics like WellPlayed and Atomix also noted the game's ability to combine elements of the wild west with supernatural themes, creating a unique atmosphere that many found enjoyable. The visuals received commendations as well, with Movies Games and Tech describing the aesthetics as excellent and the characters as gritty and fascinating. Despite these strengths, Evil West has faced significant criticism, primarily focusing on its narrative and technical shortcomings. Reviewers such as ComicBook and GameSpot pointed out that the story feels dull and lacks depth, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, many critics echoed concerns about repetitive gameplay and linear level design, with SECTOR.sk and Pure Xbox noting that the game loses momentum as it progresses. Technical issues were also a common theme, with several reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and Gamersky, highlighting the need for polish to enhance the overall experience. This combination of flaws has led to a sentiment that, while the game has potential, it ultimately fails to deliver a fully satisfying experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Evil West has its moments of fun and engaging gameplay, it is marred by a lack of innovation and depth, leading to a mixed reception. Many reviewers, such as TrueGaming and PlayStation LifeStyle, acknowledged the game's appeal to fans of straightforward action but cautioned that its flaws may deter others. The game is often described as enjoyable in short bursts, making it a decent choice for those seeking mindless entertainment, but it may not resonate with players looking for a more profound gaming experience. Thus, Evil West stands as a title that, despite its entertainment value, struggles to fully meet the expectations of modern gaming audiences.

TL;DR

Evil West impresses with engaging combat and a nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of classic action games, but falls short due to a dull narrative, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues. Critics celebrate its aesthetics and unique blend of wild west and supernatural themes, yet the overall reception is mixed, appealing mainly to fans of straightforward action, while leaving others wanting more depth and innovation.

MONSTER

Reviews

155 reviews found

Gamer.no

Nov 21, 2022