Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Steam

Playstation

Twitch

MONSTER

KARMA: The Dark World

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of KARMA: The Dark World
Item: KARMA: The Dark World
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Indie, Horror, RPG, Thriller, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMar 27, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperPOLLARD STUDIO LLC

Overview

This is a first-person story-driven psychological horror game. Delve into this dark and strange world with an investigation officer from Roam to find traces of lost memories and fulfill your destiny.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

KARMA: The Dark World boasts a praised yet polarizing narrative that tackles memory, identity, and totalitarianism through its complex, Orwellian-inspired storyline. While critics commend its thematic depth and immersive atmosphere, many highlight issues of fragmentation and confusion, with some finding the ambitious plot overly convoluted. The game offers a compelling experience for those who enjoy intricate storytelling but may alienate players seeking clarity and coherence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

74%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of KARMA: The Dark World has garnered praise for its ambitious narrative and thematic depth. Critics like Digital Chumps and IGN Deutschland highlight the complex storytelling that delves into themes of memory, identity, and totalitarianism, particularly through the character of Daniel McGovern, a ROAM Agent navigating a dystopian world influenced by Orwell's 1984. The narrative's rich symbolism and surreal imagery, as noted by Digital Chumps, contribute to a gripping atmosphere that resonates with real-world issues, while Game8 emphasizes the immersive quality of the story, stating it is the game's strongest asset. Many reviewers appreciate the psychological horror elements and the intertwining character arcs that create a compelling experience, as seen in the opinions of Combo Infinito and Gamersky. However, the narrative of KARMA: The Dark World is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including ElDesmarque and Adventure Game Hotspot, point out that the story can be fragmented and confusing, often lacking coherence and depth. Critics like Gameliner and SpazioGames mention that the plot can feel vague and overstuffed with concepts, leading to a lack of clarity that detracts from the overall experience. The ambitious nature of the narrative, while engaging, sometimes overwhelms players, as noted by Finger Guns, who describes the numerous plot twists as potentially confusing. This sentiment is echoed by multiple critics who feel that the story's complexity can hinder player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that KARMA: The Dark World presents a thought-provoking narrative that explores significant themes within a dystopian framework. While the story is rich with potential and offers moments of intrigue and psychological depth, it struggles with coherence and clarity, leaving some players feeling lost. Critics like GamingBolt and Hooked Gamers acknowledge the gripping nature of the narrative but also recognize the challenges posed by its ambitious structure. Ultimately, KARMA: The Dark World is a game that may resonate well with players who appreciate complex storytelling, yet it risks alienating those who prefer a more straightforward narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

KARMA: The Dark World impresses with its narrative immersion and atmospheric puzzle-solving but falters with poor controls, limited interactivity, and repetitive tasks. Critics praise its story-driven approach but warn that it feels more like a walking simulator, frustrating those seeking depth and challenge. Ideal for narrative lovers, but a letdown for players craving engaging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

19%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

19%

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

The gameplay of KARMA: The Dark World has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its focus on exploration and narrative immersion. Reviewers like Loot Level Chill highlight the engaging nature of puzzle-solving and the atmospheric elements that evoke survival horror tropes. Similarly, Hooked Gamers appreciates the balance between investigative gameplay and narrative exploration, suggesting that the experience is well-designed and engaging. Critics such as PC Games also commend the well-structured puzzles that maintain interest throughout the gameplay, indicating that there are moments of rewarding engagement for players who appreciate a narrative-driven experience. However, the majority of reviews point to significant shortcomings in the gameplay mechanics. Many critics, including Digital Chumps and ElDesmarque, express frustration over the limited interactivity and poor controls, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. The repetitive nature of tasks and simplicity of puzzles are frequently mentioned, with GameOver.gr and Gaming Nexus noting that the gameplay can feel tedious and unengaging. Additionally, the absence of hints when players encounter challenging puzzles, as pointed out by Gameliner, can lead to frustrating moments that hinder progression, further exacerbating the game's issues. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while KARMA: The Dark World has a strong narrative focus and some engaging moments, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling gameplay experience. Many reviewers agree that the game leans heavily on the walking simulator format, characterized by limited interactivity and simplistic mechanics, which can lead to a sense of repetitiveness and frustration. Critics like IGN Deutschland and CGMagazine emphasize that the gameplay prioritizes atmosphere over traditional mechanics, which may appeal to some players but leaves others wanting more depth and challenge. As a result, KARMA: The Dark World is seen as a title that may resonate with those who value story over gameplay complexity, yet disappoints players seeking a more interactive and challenging experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

KARMA: The Dark World wows with stunning visuals and a captivating 1980s alternate history aesthetic, praised by critics for its powerful imagery and immersive atmosphere thanks to Unreal Engine 5. However, some textures and character models fall short, alongside technical glitches that slightly mar the experience. Overall, the graphics are a standout feature, significantly enhancing the game's eerie vibe despite minor imperfections.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

16%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of KARMA: The Dark World have garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting the game's stunning and evocative imagery. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and ElDesmarque emphasized the powerful visuals that create a strong initial impression, while Finger Guns noted the creativity and atmospheric depth of the alternate history 1980s setting, which enhances the game's themes. Critics like IGN Deutschland and Loot Level Chill praised the outstanding visual design, particularly the retro sci-fi aesthetics and effective lighting that contribute to an eerie atmosphere. The use of Unreal Engine 5 has been widely acknowledged, with many reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and Vandal, noting the impressive environments and attention to detail that successfully depict the game's dystopian world. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. GameOver.gr mentioned that while the environments are visually striking, some textures lack the polish expected from an indie title. Similarly, Gaming Nexus remarked that although the game is visually beautiful, the realism does not significantly enhance the gameplay experience. Several critics, including Game8 and SpazioGames, highlighted technical issues such as clipping, awkward animations, and less polished character models that detract from the immersive experience. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are still elements that could be refined to elevate the overall visual presentation. The overall consensus among critics is that KARMA: The Dark World features a strong graphical presentation that effectively supports its narrative and themes. The majority of reviewers, including CGMagazine and GAMINGbible, celebrated the stunning visuals and the unique artistic direction that enhances the game's atmosphere. While some technical imperfections and inconsistencies were noted, they did not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's visual achievements. Critics agree that the game's graphics are one of its standout features, contributing significantly to the immersive and eerie experience that KARMA: The Dark World aims to deliver.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

KARMA: The Dark World’s sound design and music receive mixed reviews. Critics praise its atmospheric score and tension-building audio, enhancing emotional moments and immersion. However, some find the music mismatched, unoriginal, and plagued by technical issues. Overall, while the audio elevates the game’s horror elements, inconsistencies hinder a fully immersive experience, indicating room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

68%

Mixed (50-79)

26%

Negative (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of KARMA: The Dark World have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their ability to enhance the game's atmosphere. Critics like Finger Guns highlight the soundtrack as a standout feature, noting its sublime score that elevates emotional moments and overall immersion. GameOver.gr and IGN Deutschland echo this sentiment, emphasizing how the sound design contributes to the game's unsettling atmosphere and enhances the narrative's emotional weight. Additionally, Adventure Game Hotspot and GamingBolt commend the audio for effectively maintaining tension and creating a sense of paranoia, with the latter noting the importance of diegetic music and environmental sounds in heightening the overall experience. However, not all reviews are as favorable. ElDesmarque criticizes the music for failing to match the on-screen action, which detracts from the overall experience. Similarly, GameMAG points out a lack of uniqueness in the sound design, suggesting that the audio does not effectively contribute to the atmosphere beyond a simple background melody. CGMagazine raises concerns about character dialogue overlapping, which can detract from the immersive experience. Moreover, Combo Infinito mentions that while the sound design contributes to the horror atmosphere, some jump scares feel predictable, and the sound can be excessive at times. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the sound design and music in KARMA: The Dark World are generally well-received for their ability to enhance the game's atmosphere, there are notable inconsistencies. Many reviewers appreciate the chilling melodies and ambient sounds that create tension, with critics like Game8 and SECTOR.sk praising the strong voice acting and emotional depth added by the soundtrack. However, the criticisms regarding mismatched music, lack of uniqueness, and technical issues indicate that the audio experience may not be uniformly effective across all aspects of the game. Thus, while the sound design and music contribute significantly to the game's immersive qualities, there are areas that could benefit from improvement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The voice acting in KARMA: The Dark World garners mixed reviews; while many critics praise its emotional depth and immersive quality, others highlight issues like robotic delivery and technical flaws that impair the experience. The divide suggests that while the performances can elevate the game, their effectiveness varies significantly among players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in KARMA: The Dark World has received a generally positive reception from several critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the immersive experience of the game. Finger Guns commends the quality of the voice acting, emphasizing its effectiveness in conveying the characters' emotions, which contributes significantly to the game's overall atmosphere. Similarly, Multiplayer.it notes the good quality of the English voice acting, suggesting that it enhances the narrative experience. Game8 also praises the voice performances, describing them as authentic and emotionally charged, particularly in depicting the protagonist's descent into madness. This positive sentiment is echoed by Adventure Game Hotspot, which appreciates the strong performances that convey emotional weight, indicating that the voice acting is a standout feature of the game. However, not all critics share the same enthusiasm. GameOver.gr criticizes the voice acting for its cold and robotic dialogues, which detract from the emotional connection and contribute to a sense of alienation. Additionally, CGMagazine points out that while the voice acting is decent, mixing issues with overlapping dialogue hinder its effectiveness, suggesting that technical flaws may impact the overall experience. Furthermore, Vandal mentions inconsistencies in the Spanish translation, which could disrupt immersion for players who rely on that language. These criticisms highlight some significant shortcomings that could affect players' engagement with the game's narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in KARMA: The Dark World is mixed, with a notable divide between those who find it compelling and emotionally resonant and those who identify flaws that detract from the experience. While critics like SECTOR.sk and Game8 emphasize the emotional depth and authenticity of the performances, others like GameOver.gr and CGMagazine raise valid concerns about delivery and technical issues. This dichotomy suggests that while the voice acting has the potential to enhance the game significantly, its effectiveness may vary depending on individual experiences and expectations, particularly concerning language and technical execution.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"KARMA: The Dark World" receives mixed reviews for technical performance, with the PS5 version criticized for control issues and occasional frame drops despite some redeeming qualities. In contrast, the PC version is generally praised for smoother performance, though it has minor glitches. Overall, players may have a better experience on PC than on PS5 due to these discrepancies.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

82%

Negative (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "KARMA: The Dark World" has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms, particularly between the PlayStation 5 and PC. On the PS5, critics like Vandal noted that the game performs well overall, despite some minor issues. Multiplayer.it also highlighted that the game, despite showing some static gameplay and lack of physics, performs adequately for a debut title. This positive sentiment is echoed by ElDesmarque and IGN Deutschland, who, while mentioning control issues, do not outright condemn the game's performance, implying that it has redeeming qualities that allow for enjoyable gameplay. However, there are several notable negatives that critics have pointed out regarding the PS5 version. GameOver.gr specifically mentioned technical issues that affect performance and rendering, which can disrupt the gameplay experience. ElDesmarque and IGN Deutschland also touched on cumbersome controls and execution problems that may detract from the overall experience. Vandal's observation of occasional frame drops on the PlayStation 5 Pro further emphasizes the inconsistency in performance that some players might encounter, creating a somewhat frustrating experience despite the game’s overall adequacy. On the PC front, the reception is notably more favorable, with Adventure Game Hotspot praising the game for running smoothly without significant technical issues. Critics like Combo Infinito echoed this sentiment, stating that the game performs well during gameplay, although there was a notable issue with the save system. However, Game8 pointed out technical shortcomings such as jarring scene transitions and minor clipping issues, which can disrupt immersion. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while the PS5 version has several performance-related concerns, the PC version is generally more stable and enjoyable, albeit with some minor issues that could affect the experience. This disparity highlights the varying degrees of technical execution across platforms, indicating that players may have a more favorable experience on PC compared to PS5.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

KARMA: The Dark World offers a rich narrative that some critics believe invites deeper exploration on subsequent playthroughs, highlighting intriguing puzzles and story layers. However, many others criticize its linear gameplay and repetitive mechanics, suggesting these factors significantly dampen its replay value. The game appeals to narrative enthusiasts but may fall short for those seeking varied gameplay experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

27%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of KARMA: The Dark World present a nuanced landscape, with several critics highlighting aspects that could entice players to revisit the game. For instance, Game8 points out the layered narrative and optional puzzle boxes, which can encourage players to explore further and engage with the story on a deeper level. Similarly, PC Games emphasizes that the story reveals itself more fully upon a second playthrough, allowing players to appreciate the world’s complexities and absurdities anew. Additionally, Impulsegamer notes that the inclusion of puzzles promotes exploration and completionist play, suggesting that dedicated players may find value in revisiting the game. On the other hand, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value. Digital Chumps mentions that the repetitive gameplay may deter players from replaying, even though the narrative is intriguing. IGN Deutschland suggests that the game functions more as an interactive art piece, which typically implies limited replayability for casual players. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Adventure Game Hotspot highlight the linear nature of the game, indicating that this structure, combined with limited gameplay mechanics, restricts opportunities for multiple playthroughs. CGMagazine also echoes this sentiment, expressing a desire for the game to offer more, thus indicating a lack of incentive to return. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the game's compelling narrative while simultaneously pointing out its limitations in terms of replay value. While some, like Game8 and PC Games, find merit in the potential for deeper exploration and understanding through multiple playthroughs, others emphasize the linearity and simplicity of gameplay as barriers to replayability. The game appears to cater to those who appreciate narrative depth and are willing to engage with its complexities, but the general sentiment leans towards a recognition of its short duration and repetitive elements, which may ultimately limit its appeal for repeat visits.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

48%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "KARMA: The Dark World" is a blend of praise for its artistic and narrative elements, coupled with criticism of its gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Vandal, highlight the game's stunning visuals and engaging psychological horror narrative, noting its potential as a debut title for Pollard Studio. Critics like Finger Guns and Loot Level Chill commend the game's compelling story and immersive atmosphere, suggesting that it fulfills the expectations of fans of the genre. The audiovisual presentation is frequently praised, with IGN Deutschland describing it as an "audiovisual experiment" that offers a brilliant atmosphere and deep content. This positive reception indicates that the game has successfully resonated with those who appreciate narrative-driven experiences. However, the game is not without its flaws, as numerous critics point out significant shortcomings in gameplay and narrative coherence. ElDesmarque and Gaming Nexus express disappointment in the execution, with the former stating that the game ultimately falls short due to a lack of depth in both story and gameplay. Critics like GameSpew and CGMagazine also mention issues with pacing and gameplay mechanics, suggesting that the game sometimes feels more like an interactive novel than a traditional game. The repetitive nature of gameplay and the occasional confusion in narrative structure are recurring concerns, which detract from the overall experience for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "KARMA: The Dark World" is a visually impressive and narratively engaging title that may appeal primarily to fans of psychological horror. While many reviewers, including Combo Infinito and Game8, recognize the game's potential and unique approach to storytelling, they also caution that its gameplay limitations and narrative issues prevent it from fully realizing that potential. The game is seen as a commendable debut with room for improvement, leaving critics hopeful for future projects from Pollard Studio that could build on this foundation.

TL;DR

"KARMA: The Dark World" impresses with stunning visuals and a gripping psychological horror narrative, earning praise as a strong debut for Pollard Studio. However, gameplay flaws and narrative inconsistencies—like pacing issues and a repetitive structure—hold it back, making it feel more like an interactive novel at times. While it resonates well with genre fans, critics agree it has room for improvement, leaving hope for Pollard Studio's future projects.

MONSTER

Reviews

54 reviews found

Impulsegamer

Apr 1, 2025