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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, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, 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 boasts a captivating premise blending Western themes with vampire lore, earning praise for its engaging setting and Jesse Rentier's character. However, critics largely deem the story linear, predictable, and clichéd, with weak character development overshadowing its potential. While entertaining in action, the narrative ultimately feels like a missed opportunity for depth.

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 story of Evil West has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with some highlighting its engaging premise and unique setting. Reviewers like IGN Portugal and Gamer.no praised the narrative for its captivating blend of Western themes and vampire lore, noting Jesse Rentier's character as relatable and engaging. Critics such as Atomix and PlaySense appreciated the depth of the mythology surrounding the vampire-hunting organization, the Rentier Institute, suggesting that the story is well-told and incorporates elements of American folklore. Additionally, some reviewers found the humor and action-driven nature of the narrative entertaining, with GameSpew mentioning the compelling plot involving a powerful adversary, and Xbox Tavern drawing parallels to the Van Helsing narrative. However, the overall sentiment among critics leans toward the negative when it comes to the depth and execution of the story. Many reviewers, including Comicbook.com and GameMAG, criticized the narrative for being linear, predictable, and lacking character development. The characterization was often described as two-dimensional or caricatured, with Gameblog.fr pointing out that the story feels weak and filled with clichés. Critics like The Jimquisition and Multiplayer.it echoed these sentiments, describing the narrative as absurd and hamfisted, with a reliance on tropes that detracts from its potential. The consensus is that while the game has an interesting premise, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling and immersive storyline. In summary, the critics' consensus on the story of Evil West reflects a mixed reception, with some appreciating its unique setting and entertaining elements, while many others lament its lack of depth and character development. The narrative is often seen as a backdrop for action rather than a focal point, with reviewers like PSX Brasil and Shacknews emphasizing its predictability and linearity. Overall, while the game may provide enjoyment through its gameplay and humor, the story itself appears to be a missed opportunity for a more profound and engaging experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Evil West delivers thrilling combat with a fun mix of melee and ranged attacks, earning praise for its fluid mechanics and engaging progression system. However, it struggles with linearity and repetitiveness, leading to a monotonous experience due to limited enemy variety and simplistic level design. While action fans may enjoy the gameplay, the game's shortcomings in exploration and diversity could leave others feeling frustrated. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—exciting but ultimately constrained.

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 range of positive feedback, particularly regarding its engaging combat mechanics and variety of weapons. Critics like IGN and XboxEra highlight the fast-paced and enjoyable nature of the gameplay, emphasizing a satisfying blend of melee and ranged attacks that keeps players engaged. The combat system is described as fluid and intuitive, with a variety of abilities that allow for dynamic encounters, as noted by PC Invasion and WellPlayed. Many reviewers appreciate the progression system, which allows players to unlock new weapons and abilities, enhancing the overall experience and making combat feel rewarding. The game’s unique blend of genres, drawing inspiration from titles like God of War and DOOM, further adds to its appeal, as noted by Atomix and Multiplayer.it. However, despite these strengths, several critics point out significant shortcomings in Evil West. A common critique is the linearity and repetitiveness of the gameplay, as highlighted by Oyungezer and Power Unlimited, who noted that the lack of exploration and enemy variety can lead to a monotonous experience. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and GameStar also mention frustrating exploration and simplistic level design, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, the combat can feel clunky at times, especially in chaotic situations with multiple enemies, as noted by SpazioGames and Finger Guns. The repetitive nature of enemy encounters and formulaic mission design were also echoed by several reviewers, including GameSpot and Everyeye.it. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Evil West offers an engaging and enjoyable combat experience, it is hindered by its linear structure and lack of variety in both enemy types and level design. Reviewers like Gamer.nl and GameMAG recognize the fun elements of the gameplay but caution that these can be overshadowed by repetitiveness and frustration. The game seems to excel in providing a satisfying combat experience, yet it struggles to maintain player interest over time due to its shortcomings in exploration and enemy diversity. As such, Evil West presents a mixed bag, appealing to those who enjoy action-oriented gameplay while potentially disappointing players seeking a more varied and expansive experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Evil West showcases a vibrant mix of Western, horror, and retro sci-fi aesthetics that has both impressed and disappointed critics. While some praise its stunning environments and unique art direction, many slam the outdated graphics, likening them to the Xbox 360 era. Major complaints include poor execution, low-quality textures, and inconsistent lighting that undermine the game's artistic ambitions. Overall, it stands as a visually intriguing concept marred by significant technical flaws, resulting in a mixed reception.

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 highlight the game's vibrant art direction and unique aesthetic, which blends elements of Western, horror, and retro sci-fi. For instance, Press Start Australia commends the captivating environments and steampunk aesthetic, while TrueGaming notes the excellent graphics and attention to detail in the environmental design. The game is also recognized for its dynamic color palettes and well-crafted settings, with XboxEra describing it as a beautiful game with high-quality enemy character models. Additionally, Noisy Pixel points out the phenomenal art direction, particularly in character and environment design, despite some visual shortcomings. However, the criticisms regarding the graphics are quite significant. Many reviewers express disappointment with the overall execution, citing issues such as outdated graphics that resemble earlier console generations. GRYOnline.pl describes the visuals as reminiscent of the Xbox 360 era, while ComicBook and Comicbook.com point out poor execution with overbearing hues and loading issues. Additionally, Generación Xbox and GameStar lament flat environments and low-quality textures that detract from the overall experience. Critics like God is a Geek and PlayStation LifeStyle mention problems with grainy cutscenes and inconsistent lighting, which further diminish the visual impact of the game. The overall consensus among critics is a divided one, with a clear recognition of the game's artistic ambition but a prevailing sentiment regarding its technical shortcomings. While some reviewers appreciate the unique visual style and engaging environments, many others feel that the graphics do not meet the standards expected of a modern AAA title. Critics such as Vandal and IGN highlight both the appealing aspects of the environments and the technical flaws that hinder the experience. Ultimately, Evil West presents a visually intriguing concept that is marred by execution issues, leading to a mixed reception across the board.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Evil West boasts strong sound design and atmospheric music that enhances gameplay and evokes classic western vibes, earning praise from many critics. However, technical issues like audio glitches, poor dialogue tuning, and inconsistent voice acting undermine the experience, leading to mixed reviews. While the audio elements are commendable, they ultimately fail to shine due to execution flaws.

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 garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly regarding the overall atmosphere created by the audio elements. Many reviewers, such as PC Games and Hardcore Gamer, highlighted the effective sound design that complements gameplay, creating a tense and immersive experience. The music, described as atmospheric and fitting for the game's setting, has been noted for enhancing the combat experience, with some critics like PlayStation Universe and Movies Games and Tech praising the soundtrack for its ability to evoke the essence of classic western films. Additionally, several reviews, including those from GRYOnline.pl and WellPlayed, mentioned satisfying sound effects that contribute positively to the overall gameplay experience. However, the critiques surrounding Evil West also reveal significant issues with sound quality and execution. Multiple reviewers, including Gamer.nl and GamingTrend, pointed out technical problems such as audio glitches, abrupt sound failures, and poorly tuned dialogue audio that detracts from the overall experience. Critics like PlaySense and The Jimquisition mentioned inconsistencies in audio synchronization and static sounds that disrupt gameplay. Furthermore, the voice acting has received mixed reviews, with some, like TheSixthAxis, criticizing it for being subpar and not matching the game's tone, while others, like XboxAddict, acknowledged a standout performance but still felt the overall sound score fell short. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Evil West features commendable sound design and music that enhances the atmosphere and gameplay, it is marred by technical issues and inconsistencies that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Critics like Multiplayer.it and SECTOR.sk noted that although the sound design is decent, it does not stand out as a defining feature of the game. The mixed reviews indicate that while the audio elements have their strengths, they are undermined by bugs and execution flaws that impact the overall player experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Evil West features a split reaction to its voice acting—some critics praise standout performances that enhance immersion, while many highlight poor delivery and cringeworthy dialogue that detracts from the experience. Key issues include dull line readings, audio tuning problems, and inconsistent lip-syncing, leading to a polarized consensus that calls for significant improvements in future installments.

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, highlighting some standout performances that enhance the gaming experience. For instance, Noisy Pixel praises the voice acting as "outstanding," which they believe carries the subpar story effectively. Similarly, God is a Geek acknowledges well-executed performances from the main characters, suggesting that their portrayals add depth to the narrative. Critics like XboxAddict and Movies Games and Tech also commend the charismatic delivery of Jesse Rentier, particularly noting Derek Hagen’s performance. This positive sentiment is echoed by several reviewers who appreciate the competent voice work that contributes to the overall immersion of the game, with some even stating that it aligns well with the campy style of the narrative. However, the negatives surrounding the voice acting are significant and cannot be overlooked. A number of critics, including Gaming Nexus and Metro GameCentral, describe the voice acting as lacking engagement, with dull line deliveries that detract from the experience. GamingTrend specifically criticizes Jesse's lines for poor audio tuning, while PC Gamer and PC Games highlight the dialogue as filled with cringeworthy expletives and lacking depth. The issue of lip-syncing is also mentioned by Atomix and PlayStation LifeStyle, which further detracts from the immersion. Overall, many reviewers feel that the voice acting does not meet the expectations set by the game's ambitious premise and thematic elements. The overall consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Evil West is polarized. While some reviewers laud the performances of key characters and find the voice acting to be a highlight, a substantial number express disappointment with the quality of the writing and delivery. Critics like TheSixthAxis and PC Games emphasize that the voice acting often fails to match the campy tone of the game, leading to a disjointed experience. This division suggests that while there are commendable aspects, particularly in the main character's portrayal, the overall execution of voice work suffers from inconsistencies and shortcomings that affect the game's narrative impact. The mixed reviews indicate a need for improvement in both voice direction and script quality to elevate the overall experience in future installments.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Evil West shines on PC with smooth performance and minor glitches, but the PS5 version is plagued by severe bugs, crashes, and graphical issues, leading to a frustrating experience. Xbox Series X performs well with minor problems, while the Series S struggles with optimization. Overall, the game’s technical execution is inconsistent, with significant room for improvement, especially on consoles.

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 significantly across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths particularly on PC. Many reviewers, including IGN France and Meristation, highlighted that the game runs smoothly on PC, with good optimization and stable frame rates, even on mid-range hardware. The game is generally free from significant bugs, with PC Gamer noting only minor glitches that do not greatly affect gameplay. On the Xbox Series X, critics like XboxAddict and TrueAchievements reported a stable performance with very few technical issues, indicating that the game runs well overall. Even on the PS5, some reviewers, such as Atomix and Press Start Australia, acknowledged that the game performs well, with only occasional frame rate drops and minor audio bugs. However, the PS5 version faces substantial criticism for its technical shortcomings. Multiple reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and ComicBook, reported significant bugs, crashes, and graphical issues like screen tearing and hit detection problems, which severely detract from the overall experience. Similarly, on the Xbox Series S, Generación Xbox pointed out optimization issues that hindered resolution and frame rates. On PC, while many reviews were positive, there were still mentions of occasional frame rate drops and audio glitches, as noted by XboxEra and PC Gamer, which suggest that not all players had a flawless experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of Evil West. While the PC version generally received praise for its stability and performance, the PS5 version was heavily criticized for its numerous bugs and crashes, leading to a frustrating experience for many players. Xbox Series X reviews were more favorable, though some critics noted minor issues. In summary, while there are commendable aspects to the game's performance, particularly on PC, the overall technical execution appears to be inconsistent, with significant room for improvement, especially on console platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Evil West offers a mixed bag for replay value. While features like New Game Plus and co-op play can enhance the experience, critics largely emphasize its linearity and repetitive gameplay as major flaws. Many express disappointment over the lack of optional content and underdeveloped co-op mode, making it feel like a one-and-done game. Overall, despite some redeeming qualities, the consensus is that Evil West lacks the depth and variety needed to justify multiple playthroughs, leaving most players unlikely to revisit after the initial run.

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 present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting positive aspects that contribute to its longevity. Several reviewers, such as Eurogamer Poland and TrueGaming, point out the inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, which enhances replayability by allowing players to revisit the game with retained character progression and increased challenges. Additionally, the cooperative gameplay option is frequently mentioned as a feature that can add to the replay value, with critics like Movies Games and Tech and Hey Poor Player noting that it encourages players to explore different abilities and difficulties. Furthermore, the game’s combat mechanics and upgrade systems are seen as engaging enough to warrant multiple playthroughs, as noted by GamingTrend and Press Start Australia. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the overall replay value of Evil West, pointing to its linearity and repetitive gameplay as major drawbacks. Gamersky and Oyungezer emphasize the lack of optional content and side quests, which diminishes the incentive for players to return after completing the campaign. Critics like GamingBolt and Ragequit.gr mention that the co-op mode feels underdeveloped, and while it may offer some replay opportunities, it does not fundamentally change the experience. Moreover, many reviewers, including TheGamer and XboxAddict, highlight that the absence of chapter select and the predictable nature of the gameplay limit the desire to replay the game, making it feel more like a one-and-done experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Evil West does offer some elements that could encourage replayability, such as a New Game Plus mode and cooperative play, these features are often overshadowed by the game's linear design and lack of depth. The majority of reviews lean towards a sentiment that the game may not hold long-term appeal for players seeking extensive replay value. Critics like Gamer.nl and Game Rant encapsulate this sentiment by suggesting that while the game is enjoyable for a single playthrough, it lacks the compelling content and variety that would make players eager to return for more. Thus, while there are positive aspects to its replay value, the overall impression is that Evil West may not be worth multiple full-price purchases for most players.

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.

The overall sentiment regarding Evil West reflects a mixture of appreciation for its engaging gameplay and combat mechanics, alongside criticisms of its narrative and technical execution. Many reviewers, including GameSpot and Press Start Australia, highlight the robust and satisfying combat, which is often described as fun and reminiscent of old-school action games. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Finger Guns commend the game for successfully delivering a nostalgic experience filled with visceral action, while others like PlayStation Universe and PC Games note its straightforward, entertaining gameplay that prioritizes action over depth. The artistic direction and visual appeal also receive praise, with Movies Games and Tech and Atomix emphasizing the game's aesthetics and character designs as standout features. Conversely, the game is frequently criticized for its lackluster story, linear level design, and technical shortcomings. Reviewers such as Comicbook.com and GameMAG express disappointment in the narrative depth, stating that it detracts from the overall experience. Technical issues are a recurring theme, with critics like The Games Machine and GameSpot pointing out clunky encounter designs and graphical problems that hinder immersion. Additionally, the repetitive gameplay is noted by several reviewers, including GameWatcher and Pure Xbox, who feel that the game fails to innovate or maintain engagement over longer play sessions. The consensus among critics indicates that while Evil West offers a fun and chaotic experience, it ultimately falls short of being a standout title in the current gaming landscape. Many reviewers, such as Wccftech and GamingBolt, recommend the game for its combat and nostalgic appeal, but caution that its narrative and technical flaws may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Overall, Evil West is seen as a mixed bag—entertaining for those seeking straightforward action but lacking the polish and depth that could elevate it to a more prominent status among contemporary games.

TL;DR

Evil West delivers thrilling combat and nostalgic fun reminiscent of classic action games, earning praise for its engaging gameplay and striking visuals. However, it suffers from a weak narrative, linear design, and technical issues that hinder immersion. While it may entertain action fans, its lack of depth and polish limits broader appeal, making it a mixed bag in the current gaming landscape.

MONSTER

Reviews

155 reviews found

Gamer.no

Nov 21, 2022