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Hellboy: Web of Wyrd

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd
Item: Hellboy: Web of Wyrd
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Fighting, Single Player

AvailableOct 18, 2023

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperUpstream Arcade

Overview

Hellboy Web of Wyrd is a roguelite action adventure with an original story created in partnership with Dark Horse Comics and creator Mike Mignola. When an agent goes missing, Hellboy investigates. Prepare for monstrous toe-to-toe brawling

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd impresses with its nods to the original comics and engaging premise, capturing the supernatural essence of the franchise. Critics praise its authentic storytelling and clever twists, bolstered by Dark Horse Comics' involvement. However, the execution falters, with many reviewers citing weak character development and a lackluster narrative that feels more like a combat backdrop than a compelling journey. While fans of the series may find enjoyment, the story ultimately lacks the depth and excitement needed to resonate widely.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The opinions of critics regarding the story of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd reveal a mix of appreciation for its connection to the original comics and its engaging premise. Several reviewers, including ComicBook and Gamereactor UK, highlight the narrative's authenticity, noting that it aligns well with Mike Mignola's storytelling style and captures the supernatural weirdness and dark humor characteristic of the franchise. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG commend the narrative for its well-thought-out twists and turns, suggesting that the roguelike structure enhances the storytelling across various worlds. Additionally, GameSpew acknowledges the involvement of Dark Horse Comics in crafting the story, which adds a layer of credibility to the narrative's foundation. However, many critics express dissatisfaction with the execution of the story, citing a lack of depth and engaging characters. For instance, CD-Action and Everyeye.it argue that the narrative feels lackluster and serves primarily as a backdrop for combat, rather than offering a compelling experience. Metro GameCentral criticizes the storytelling for being incoherent and failing to adequately explain the game's setting, while GameSpot describes the story as unimaginative and predictable. This sentiment is echoed by Softpedia and SpazioGames, who both find the narrative underdeveloped and lacking the detail necessary to resonate with players. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Hellboy: Web of Wyrd has a promising premise and ties to the beloved comic series, it ultimately falls short in execution. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements and the authentic feel of the narrative, but a significant number also point out its shortcomings in character development and depth. Critics like IGN and Game Rant encapsulate this divide, noting that although the story fits within the Hellboy universe, it lacks the standout moments that would elevate it beyond a standard gaming experience. As a result, while the game may appeal to hardcore fans of the franchise, its narrative may not captivate a broader audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd boasts strategic melee combat and an engaging roguelike structure, but critics largely condemn it for repetitive gameplay, clunky controls, and uninspired level design. While some moments are enjoyable, the overall experience feels monotonous and disappointing, failing to leverage its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

55%

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

In analyzing the gameplay of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd, there are a few positive aspects highlighted by some critics. GameSpew praised the intimate and strategic nature of the melee combat, noting that it encourages players to think tactically, while GGRecon found the combat engaging and fun, particularly in one-on-one scenarios with larger enemies. Additionally, there are mentions of a variety of weapons and charms that could enhance the gameplay experience, as noted by CGMagazine. Some reviewers appreciated the roguelike structure, which, while not universally praised, does offer a unique approach to gameplay that can appeal to fans of the genre. However, the overwhelming consensus among critics is that the gameplay suffers from significant flaws. Many reviews, including those from CD-Action and Everyeye.it, describe the combat system as simple, repetitive, and lacking depth, leading to a monotonous experience. Critics like Gfinity and God is a Geek pointed out issues with clunky controls and camera problems that contribute to a frustrating gameplay experience. The roguelike elements, while potentially interesting, are often criticized for poor level design and a lack of variety, as noted by Metro GameCentral and Vandal, which further exacerbates the feeling of repetition. Overall, the sentiment surrounding Hellboy: Web of Wyrd's gameplay is predominantly negative. Critics agree that while there are moments of fun and potential in the combat mechanics, the execution is marred by sluggishness, lack of challenge, and repetitive design choices. The gameplay loop, as highlighted by Noisy Pixel and Screen Rant, feels formulaic and uninspired, leading many to conclude that the game does not successfully capitalize on its roguelike framework. As a result, despite some positive notes on combat mechanics and strategic elements, the majority of reviewers express disappointment in the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd impresses with visuals that faithfully capture Mike Mignola's comic art, earning praise for its cel-shaded style and vibrant colors. Critics celebrate its striking design but point out issues like frame rate problems, glitchy animations, and repetitive environments. While the graphics are a standout feature, concerns about performance and gameplay integration may affect the overall experience. It's a visually stunning tribute to the comics, but potential players should be aware of its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd have garnered significant praise from many critics, particularly for their faithful representation of Mike Mignola's iconic comic art style. Reviewers like CD-Action and Metro GameCentral commend the game for its unique graphic style, highlighting how it captures the essence of the original comics with stunning cel-shaded visuals and striking colors. Critics from PlayStation LifeStyle and Gfinity also emphasize the successful interpretation of Mignola's aesthetic, noting the bold outlines and atmospheric shadows that contribute to the game's overall beauty. The visual design is frequently described as a standout feature, with many reviewers, including CGMagazine and GameSpot, celebrating how the game brings the comic book world to life in a way that resonates with fans. However, not all opinions are as favorable. Some critics, such as Everyeye.it and PlayStation Universe, express disappointment regarding the execution of the visual design, citing a lack of polish and issues like frame rate problems and glitchy animations. Critics like Game Rant and XboxEra note that while the art style is appealing, the environments can feel repetitive and lack variety, detracting from the overall visual experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including SECTOR.sk and GameOver.gr, mention that while the comic book aesthetic is beautiful, it does not necessarily enhance gameplay or atmosphere, indicating a disconnect between the visual style and the interactive elements of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive appreciation of the game's graphics and visual design, particularly for its homage to Mignola's work. While many reviewers celebrate the stunning visuals and faithful adaptation, there are notable concerns regarding performance issues and environmental repetitiveness that could impact player experience. Critics like Vandal and Gamereactor UK encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging the game's visual strengths while also recognizing the areas where it falls short. Ultimately, Hellboy: Web of Wyrd is seen as a visually striking game that successfully captures the essence of its source material, albeit with some caveats that potential players should consider.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd scores high on voice acting, particularly Lance Reddick's standout performance, enhancing the game's appeal. However, the music and sound design are criticized for being repetitive and forgettable, failing to fully complement the immersive experience. While the voice work impresses, the overall audio landscape leaves much to be desired, highlighting a disconnect in quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd have garnered a mix of praise, particularly for the standout voice acting, especially by the late Lance Reddick. Critics like GameSpew and Push Square have highlighted Reddick's performance as a significant enhancement to the game's overall experience, capturing the essence of Hellboy with authenticity and depth. The dynamic nature of the soundtrack also received commendation, with several reviewers noting that the music complements the game's atmosphere effectively. For instance, CGMagazine pointed out that the music ramps up during encounters, enhancing the immersive experience, while Softpedia mentioned that the soundtrack fits the surreal world well, adding to the game's visual allure. Despite the positive feedback, several critics expressed concerns about the repetitiveness and lack of memorability in the music. CD-Action described the music as atmospheric yet somewhat forgettable, while TheXboxHub criticized it for being generic and failing to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, some reviewers, such as ComicBook and GameCritics, noted that the voice acting, while generally praised, could feel repetitive and lacked variation, which detracted from the overall experience. Vandal echoed this sentiment, stating that while the voice acting stood out, the sound design overall was forgettable, indicating a disconnect between the quality of the voice performances and the accompanying audio landscape. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Hellboy: Web of Wyrd excels in voice acting—particularly through Reddick's performance—the sound design and music do not consistently match this quality. Critics like SECTOR.sk and Gamer Escape acknowledged the strengths of the audio in enhancing the gameplay experience, yet many also pointed out significant shortcomings, particularly in terms of the music's repetitiveness and lack of impact. This duality in feedback illustrates that while the game has strong elements in its audio presentation, it ultimately falls short of creating a fully immersive soundscape that complements the engaging narrative and character portrayals.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Lance Reddick's voice acting as Hellboy in Hellboy: Web of Wyrd has garnered widespread acclaim for its charisma and emotional depth, enhancing the game's narrative. Critics praise his unique authenticity, though some note issues with repetitiveness and a lingering nostalgia for Ron Perlman's iconic portrayal. Despite minor technical flaws, Reddick's performance is largely seen as a standout element that positively impacts the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Hellboy: Web of Wyrd, particularly the performance of Lance Reddick as Hellboy, has received widespread acclaim among critics. Many reviewers, including CD-Action and PlayStation Universe, highlight Reddick's charismatic portrayal, noting that it adds significant depth and personality to the character. Critics from GameSpew and Gfinity echo this sentiment, describing his performance as fantastic and a key element that enhances the overall gaming experience. Reddick's ability to deliver a performance that feels true to the character is also praised, with Push Square and TechRadar Gaming emphasizing how he brings a unique authenticity to Hellboy without imitating previous portrayals. The emotional depth and poignant delivery of his lines have been noted by critics like Hey Poor Player and TheXboxHub, further solidifying Reddick's performance as a standout aspect of the game. Despite the general praise for Reddick's performance, some critics have expressed reservations. For instance, ComicBook and Gaming Age criticize his portrayal as repetitive and lacking distinct delivery, which detracts from the immersion of the gameplay experience. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciate Reddick's performance, there is a palpable sense of nostalgia for Ron Perlman's iconic portrayal of Hellboy, as indicated by Games.cz and GameSpot. This sentiment suggests that while Reddick's performance is commendable, it may not fully resonate with long-time fans of the franchise who have come to associate Hellboy with Perlman's voice. Furthermore, some critics, such as XboxAddict, mention technical issues like a lack of mouth movement during dialogue, which can diminish the overall impact of the voice acting. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Lance Reddick's performance as Hellboy is a significant highlight of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd, bringing both charisma and depth to the character. While there are some criticisms regarding the repetitiveness of his delivery and the absence of Perlman, the majority of reviews lean towards a positive reception of Reddick's work. Critics like ZTGD and TheGamer commend his ability to transition between different emotions seamlessly, suggesting that his performance ultimately contributes positively to the game's narrative and character development. Thus, while there are some dissenting opinions, the prevailing view is that Reddick's portrayal is a strong asset to the game, enhancing the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd shows some acceptable technical performance on PC and Xbox Series X, with smooth gameplay at 60fps. However, PS5 users face major issues like bugs, input lag, and frame rate drops. Overall, critics agree the game is riddled with technical flaws across all platforms, requiring urgent updates to enhance the gameplay experience. Frustration outweighs enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

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

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance Across the various platforms, there are some commendable aspects noted by critics. On PC, Games.cz highlighted that the technical performance is generally acceptable, with only a few crashes at the beginning and no significant issues during the main campaign. Worth Playing also noted that the game runs smoothly at a native resolution of 1280x800 and maintains a solid 60fps, which is a positive takeaway for players concerned about performance. On the Xbox Series X, XboxAddict mentioned that despite minor issues with visual draw-ins and occasional slowdowns, the overall technical performance is deemed acceptable, suggesting that the game can still deliver a satisfactory experience. This reflects a degree of stability that some players may find reassuring. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance However, the negatives heavily outweigh the positives across platforms. On the PS5, multiple critics, including CD-Action and Everyeye.it, reported significant technical issues such as bugs that disrupt gameplay, input lag, and stuttering loading screens. PlayStation Universe emphasized the need for significant polish and updates due to frame rate drops and glitching shadows, indicating that the game is not yet in an optimal state. On PC, while Games.cz found the performance acceptable, other critics like Noisy Pixel and Screen Rant pointed out severe issues like crashing, stuttering during transitions, and a lack of stability. Similarly, on the Xbox Series X, Xbox Tavern's mention of significant bugs, including a saving issue that caused loss of progress, underscores the game's unreliability, while TheXboxHub noted gameplay bugs that hinder the overall experience. Overall Consensus of Critics The overall consensus among critics for all platforms is that Hellboy: Web of Wyrd is plagued by a range of technical issues that detract from the gameplay experience. While some reviewers found moments of stability and acceptable performance, the recurring themes of bugs, frame rate issues, and input lag suggest that the game is not polished enough for a seamless experience. The criticisms from CD-Action and Everyeye.it on the PS5, combined with the mixed feedback from PC and Xbox critics, paint a picture of a game that requires significant updates and fixes to meet players' expectations. As it stands, the technical performance across platforms leaves much to be desired, and many players may find the experience frustrating rather than enjoyable.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd offers mixed reviews on replay value. Some critics praise its roguelite mechanics for potential repeat engagement, while many highlight significant flaws like lack of variety, challenge, and stiff gameplay. Overall, the consensus leans negative, with most agreeing that the game’s shortcomings outweigh its replayability features, making returning to it feel more like a chore.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

58%

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

The opinions of critics regarding the replay value of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd reveal a mixed sentiment, with some acknowledging the game's potential for replayability through its roguelite elements. For instance, critics like God is a Geek and CGMagazine highlight the solid roguelike mechanics that encourage players to engage with the game repeatedly, suggesting that the upgrade system and procedural generation can create fresh experiences with each playthrough. Additionally, Gamer Escape notes that the option to buy upgrades and try again aligns with typical roguelike gameplay, which can appeal to fans of the genre. However, a significant number of reviews point to substantial drawbacks that hinder the game's replay value. Critics such as Everyeye.it and Metro GameCentral emphasize the lack of variety and engaging gameplay, leading to a perception of repetitiveness that can quickly deter players from returning. The consensus among many reviewers, including Vandal and GamingTrend, is that the game fails to provide enough challenge or meaningful upgrades, making subsequent playthroughs feel like a chore rather than an enjoyable experience. This sentiment is echoed by Softpedia, who describes the gameplay as stiff and repetitive, further diminishing the incentive to replay. Overall, the critical consensus leans towards a negative outlook on the replay value of Hellboy: Web of Wyrd. While some critics recognize the potential for enjoyment through its roguelite structure, the overwhelming feedback is that the game suffers from a lack of depth, variety, and challenge. Reviewers like TechRadar Gaming and TheGamer encapsulate this sentiment by pointing out that the repetitive nature of gameplay and limited character progression significantly detract from the overall experience. As a result, while there are elements that could foster replayability, the majority of critics agree that these are overshadowed by the game's shortcomings, leading to a generally low replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards Hellboy: Web of Wyrd, it's clear that several critics found redeeming qualities in the game, particularly its visual presentation and adherence to the source material. Reviewers like ZTGD and GGRecon praised the game's art style, noting that it captures the essence of the Hellboy comics beautifully. The voice acting, especially Lance Reddick's portrayal of Hellboy, received commendations from multiple sources, including TheXboxHub and TRG, highlighting the game's strong narrative elements. Critics like God is a Geek and Worth Playing also recognized the engaging story and meaningful combat, suggesting that the game offers a solid experience, particularly for fans of the franchise. However, the negatives surrounding Hellboy: Web of Wyrd are significant and often overshadow the positives. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Impulsegamer, described the game as a missed opportunity, citing issues with gameplay depth, repetitive mechanics, and a lack of challenge. Critics such as PlayStation LifeStyle and SpazioGames echoed these sentiments, labeling the game as unfinished and dull, with sticky brawling mechanics and uninspired level design. The consensus among critics like Everyeye.it and Gaming Age is that while the game has potential, it ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying experience, with many reviewers pointing out that it feels more like a chore than an enjoyable gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards disappointment, with many agreeing that Hellboy: Web of Wyrd does not live up to its potential. While some reviewers, such as GameStar and CGMagazine, offered a more optimistic view, suggesting that the game could appeal to newcomers and fans alike, the majority criticized its execution and repetitive gameplay. The game's beautiful visuals and strong narrative are frequently acknowledged, but they are often deemed insufficient to compensate for the lack of engaging gameplay and depth. As a result, Hellboy: Web of Wyrd is generally seen as a missed opportunity to create a truly memorable gaming experience within the beloved Hellboy universe.

TL;DR

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd dazzles with stunning visuals and solid voice acting—especially Lance Reddick's portrayal—but ultimately falls flat due to repetitive gameplay and lackluster mechanics. Critics largely agree it's a missed opportunity, offering a compelling story that fails to elevate an otherwise dull and unfinished experience. While some fans may find joy, the consensus suggests it’s more of a chore than a thrill, leaving many disappointed in what could have been a standout title in the Hellboy franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

78 reviews found

CGMagazine

Oct 18, 2023