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MONSTER

Maneater

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

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, RPG, Thriller, Single Player

AvailableMay 22, 2020

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperTripwire Interactive

Overview

Control a diver to collect gold from the bottom of the ocean and return it to the ship. Avoid the man-eating sharks.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Maneater's premise of a vengeful shark captivates with a unique reality TV-style narrative and humor, winning some praise for its depth and character, especially in its antagonist Scaly Pete. However, many critics deem the execution flawed, citing clichéd storytelling, repetitive missions, and tonal inconsistencies that detract from the experience. Ultimately, while the concept is promising, the shallow narrative and lack of character development leave a mixed reception, with many feeling it falls short of its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Maneater has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several highlighting its engaging premise and unique narrative style. Many reviewers appreciate the humor infused into the game, particularly the reality TV show format that adds a layer of entertainment to the gameplay. For instance, GameSpot notes that the narrative is narrated in a style reminiscent of a reality TV show, which includes comedic elements and environmental commentary. Similarly, critics like We Got This Covered and God is a Geek commend the engaging storytelling that combines humor with darker themes, making the shark's quest for revenge against Scaly Pete not just a simple narrative but a deeper exploration of predator-prey dynamics. The character of Scaly Pete is often mentioned as a well-developed antagonist, adding emotional depth to the story, as noted by critics like Gaming Age and GamingTrend. However, despite these positive aspects, many reviewers point out significant flaws in the execution of the story. Critics like GameSpew and Gamersky describe the narrative as clichéd and lacking depth, with repetitive missions that fail to enhance the overall experience. The humor, while appreciated by some, is also criticized for being tonally inconsistent, as highlighted by Metro GameCentral, who noted that the attempts at humor often miss the mark. Furthermore, several critics, including Everyeye.it and DualShockers, mention that the plot is not heavily emphasized and often takes a backseat to action, leading to a lack of narrative exploration and character development. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While Maneater's premise of a shark seeking revenge is intriguing and presented with a unique style, many reviewers agree that the execution falls short of its potential. Critics like Game Rant and Atomix emphasize that although the story serves as a sufficient motivator for gameplay, it often feels predictable and lacks the depth necessary to fully engage players. Ultimately, Maneater is seen as a game with a promising concept that is marred by repetitive gameplay and a shallow narrative, leaving critics divided on its overall effectiveness as a storytelling medium.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Maneater offers a thrilling shark experience with engaging RPG mechanics, but it struggles with repetitiveness and simplistic combat. Critics praise the fun of controlling a shark in an open world, but many note that the gameplay quickly becomes dull, with clunky controls and limited mission variety. While it has moments of enjoyment, the lack of depth leaves players wanting more—making it a casual fun ride that may frustrate those seeking a deeper challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The gameplay of Maneater has received a mixed reception from critics, with several highlighting its engaging premise and enjoyable mechanics. Reviewers like Game Informer and Digital Chumps praised the core gameplay loop, which allows players to control a shark in an open world, consume various creatures, and evolve their abilities through an RPG-like progression system. Critics such as GameSpace and Hardcore Gamer noted the fun factor of the combat mechanics and the satisfaction derived from leveling up the shark, indicating that the game can provide an entertaining experience, especially when players engage in chaotic shark attacks and explore the vibrant underwater environment. However, a significant number of critics pointed out the shortcomings of the gameplay, particularly its repetitiveness and lack of depth. Reviewers from DualShockers, Everyeye.it, and Comicbook.com expressed concerns about the simplistic nature of the combat system, describing it as quickly becoming dull and requiring excessive button mashing. Many critics, including those from Nintendo Life and GameOver.gr, echoed sentiments about the clunky controls and the limited variety in missions, leading to a grindy experience that detracts from the overall enjoyment. This repetitiveness was a common theme, with several reviewers mentioning that the gameplay loop, while initially fun, becomes monotonous over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Maneater presents an intriguing concept and offers moments of enjoyment, it ultimately suffers from a lack of variety and depth in its gameplay. The engaging aspects, such as the RPG elements and the thrill of evolving a shark, are often overshadowed by repetitive missions and simplistic mechanics, as noted by critics like SpazioGames and XGN. The game appears to strike a balance between fun and frustration, making it a title that may appeal to some players seeking a casual experience but may leave others wanting more in terms of depth and challenge.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Maneater dazzles with vibrant underwater visuals and intricate shark animations, winning praise from critics for its immersive environments. However, significant graphical flaws, especially on the Nintendo Switch—like reduced clarity, poor textures, and frequent frame drops—drag it down. While it has standout moments, the overall experience is underwhelming, with many labeling it a "B-game" that doesn't rise above basic presentation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Maneater reveal a mixture of appreciation for its vibrant underwater environments and distinct visual styles across different regions. Critics such as PC Gamer and Game Informer highlight the well-designed underwater settings and the engaging variety of environments, noting that the game effectively uses color and lighting to enhance the visual experience. The shark model is frequently praised for its detail and animation, with reviews from Player 2 and Vandal emphasizing the appealing aesthetics of the aquatic world. Additionally, some critics like Push Square and PlayStation LifeStyle commend the stunning underwater animations and the overall diversity of the environments, which contribute positively to the immersion and enjoyment of the game. However, the visual performance of Maneater is marred by several issues that detract from the overall experience. Many critics, particularly those reviewing the Nintendo Switch version, such as Screen Rant and GamingTrend, express concerns over reduced visual fidelity, lower resolution, and diminished draw distances compared to other platforms. The animations and textures above water are often described as rudimentary or poorly rendered, as noted by Everyeye.it and Malditos Nerds. Additionally, frequent frame drops and stuttering during intense moments, highlighted by GameOver.gr and God is a Geek, indicate that the game struggles with performance consistency, particularly on less powerful hardware. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Maneater features some visually appealing elements, particularly in its underwater environments, it suffers from significant graphical shortcomings, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Many reviewers acknowledge the game as a "B-game" with rough edges, as noted by Gamer.nl, and while some aspects of the visual design are commendable, such as the vibrant colors and distinct zones, the inconsistencies in quality and performance leave a mixed impression. Critics like Wccftech and Digital Chumps point out that while the game does have its moments of beauty, it ultimately does not elevate itself beyond basic presentation, leading to a somewhat underwhelming visual experience overall.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Maneater's sound design and music offer a mixed bag: Chris Parnell's humorous narration is a highlight, adding charm and comedic flair, while immersive aquatic sound effects enhance the gameplay experience. However, critics note a lack of excitement in ambient tones and repetitive dialogue, with minimal music failing to elevate the atmosphere. Overall, the engaging voiceovers boost the game, but the audio elements fall short, indicating areas for improvement in future releases.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Maneater have received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly regarding the humorous narration provided by Chris Parnell. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and GamesRadar+, highlighted how Parnell's voice adds charm and comedic context to the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience. The sound effects, particularly those that create an immersive aquatic environment, were also well-received, with Shacknews noting the incredible sound effects that contribute to the feeling of being a shark. Critics like Hey Poor Player and KeenGamer emphasized the strong audio design, which effectively captures the ocean's ambiance and includes engaging sound effects that make the gameplay more enjoyable. However, several reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. Critics such as Press Start Australia and But Why Tho? mentioned a lack of excitement in the ambient tones and the absence of epic music to enhance the experience. The repetition of Parnell's lines was also a common critique, with 3DJuegos and Hardcore Gamer noting that some jokes may become tiresome over time. Additionally, the minimal presence of music throughout the game was highlighted by multiple reviewers, indicating that while the narration adds humor, the overall musical score is lacking. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the narration by Chris Parnell significantly enriches the game with its humor and charm, the sound design and music leave much to be desired. Many reviewers, such as Game Rant and PlayStation Universe, acknowledged the entertaining aspects of the voiceovers but also pointed out that the sound design does not stand out as a strong point in the game. The mixed feedback suggests that while the audio elements contribute positively to the comedic tone and immersive experience, they ultimately do not elevate the game to a higher level of engagement, leaving room for improvement in future iterations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Chris Parnell's voice acting in Maneater is a comedic highlight, enhancing the game's campy tone and likened to a nature documentary. However, the overall voice acting falls short, with minimal character voices and some critics finding it grating. While Parnell shines, the lack of depth and localization issues detract from the experience, leaving a mixed impression on the game's voice work.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Maneater has received a generally positive reception, particularly for the performance of Chris Parnell, who serves as the narrator. Critics like Switch Player and GameCrate highlight his humorous delivery, which aligns well with the game’s campy tone, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Digital Chumps and PC Gamer, commend Parnell's ability to add charm and wit to the narrative, making the game feel like a comedic nature documentary. The voice acting is often described as a strong point, with several critics noting that it contributes positively to the game's atmosphere and storytelling, as seen in the opinions of VideoGamer and Meristation. However, not all feedback is favorable. Some critics point out significant shortcomings in the voice acting, particularly regarding the minimal character voices and lack of distinctiveness. IGN and But Why Tho? express concerns about the overall quality, with the latter describing the voiceover as "grating." Furthermore, SpazioGames raises issues about the disjointed experience caused by the lack of subtitles for non-English speakers, while Hobby Consolas notes that some shark hunters lack voice acting entirely, which detracts from immersion. These criticisms suggest that while Parnell's performance shines, the overall voice acting could have benefitted from more depth and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Chris Parnell's voice acting is a highlight of Maneater, providing much-needed humor and personality to the game. While many reviewers, such as those from Game Informer and Attack of the Fanboy, appreciate his contributions, there is a clear acknowledgment of the game's limitations in voice acting beyond the narrator. Critics like Game Rant and Windows Central suggest that while the humor and charm of Parnell's performance elevate the experience, the lack of engaging character voices and the disjointed localization detracts from the game's potential. Thus, Maneater presents a mixed bag in terms of voice acting, with a standout performance overshadowed by notable deficiencies.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Maneater’s technical performance is a mixed bag across platforms. The Nintendo Switch and PC versions generally perform well, though not without flaws like frame rate drops and minor bugs. The PS5 shows stable performance in less intense scenarios but suffers from optimization issues. In stark contrast, the PS4 and Xbox One versions are plagued by significant problems including crashes and graphical glitches. Overall, Maneater has potential but is marred by substantial technical shortcomings that detract from the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

31%

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

The technical performance of Maneater varies significantly across platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Hey Poor Player, mentioned that the game runs smoothly overall, with only minor glitches and reasonable loading times. Critics like GamingTrend highlighted that the Switch version, despite some occasional stutters, provides a decent experience. On PC, a number of reviews, including those from GameWatcher and Screen Rant, indicate that the game performs well on recommended hardware, with smooth gameplay and minimal significant issues reported. For the PS5, while Gamersky pointed out optimization issues, there were also mentions of stable performance, particularly in less intense scenarios. However, the negative aspects of Maneater's technical performance cannot be overlooked. The PS4 version, as noted by critics like TheGamer and Wccftech, suffers from significant technical issues, including frequent frame rate drops, crashes, and bugs that affect save data. The Xbox One version also received criticism for poor performance, with reviewers such as Metro GameCentral and XBLA Fans highlighting graphical glitches, crashes, and control issues that detract from the gameplay experience. On the Switch, while generally positive, some critics like Shindig and GamingTrend noted performance issues during busy scenes, indicating that the port may not be as robust as its counterparts. The PC version, while praised by some, still faced criticism for camera control issues and minor bugs, as mentioned by critics like C0Gconnected and PC Games. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Maneater suffers from substantial technical performance issues across most platforms, particularly on PS4 and Xbox One. While the Nintendo Switch and PC versions have their merits, they are not without flaws, with critics frequently mentioning frame rate drops, glitches, and control challenges. The PS5 version, while somewhat better, still exhibits optimization issues that hinder the experience. The general sentiment suggests that while Maneater has potential, its technical shortcomings significantly impact the enjoyment and fluidity of gameplay across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Maneater has potential for replay value with its collectibles, customization, and unique shark premise, but critics overwhelmingly agree that repetitive gameplay and monotonous missions severely limit its long-term appeal. While it offers some fun initially, its lack of variety makes players unlikely to return after the first playthrough.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Maneater, a few positive aspects emerge that highlight the game's potential for extended play. Several reviewers, such as Shacknews and GamingTrend, note that the game offers a wealth of collectibles and secrets, which encourages exploration and experimentation with different builds and evolutions. Critics like IGN Italia and Stevivor emphasize the growth and customization systems available for the shark, suggesting that these elements can motivate players to revisit the game for a second playthrough. Furthermore, the game’s unique premise of playing as a shark and the humor embedded within the narrative add a layer of engagement that some players may find appealing for repeat sessions. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics points to significant drawbacks that severely limit the game's replay value. A majority of reviewers, including Comicbook.com, Everyeye.it, and Metro GameCentral, consistently describe the gameplay as repetitive, with monotonous missions and a lack of new mechanics that make returning to the game unappealing. Critics like Vooks and Twinfinite echo this sentiment, pointing out that the repetitive nature of objectives can lead to a feeling of completion after a short playtime, which discourages players from engaging with the game beyond their initial experience. The relatively short length of the game, often cited as around 10 to 15 hours, further compounds this issue, as noted by critics such as BaziCenter and GameStar. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Maneater offers some elements that could encourage replayability—such as collectibles, customization options, and a unique gameplay experience—the repetitive nature of its missions and lack of variety significantly detract from its long-term appeal. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Game Rant highlight that although the game can be enjoyable and engaging at first, the monotonous gameplay loop ultimately limits its replay value. Thus, while there are pockets of enjoyment and potential for exploration, the game's core structure leaves many players disinclined to return after their initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Maneater" among critics reveals a mixed bag of opinions, with several reviewers highlighting its unique premise and entertaining gameplay. Critics like Wccftech and PlayStation LifeStyle appreciate the game for its humorous narrative and engaging shark gameplay, noting that it offers a novel experience in the action RPG genre. The visuals have also received praise, with some critics, such as PC Invasion and PlaySense, acknowledging the game's appealing aesthetics. Furthermore, the concept of embodying a shark and the chaotic fun that comes with it has been recognized by several reviewers, including Game Informer and Hardcore Gamer, who describe the game as enjoyable and chaotic, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of unconventional games. On the flip side, numerous critics have pointed out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Repetitive gameplay is a recurring theme in many reviews, with critics like Softpedia and Everyeye.it labeling it as a major flaw that leads to a mediocre experience. Technical issues and poor AI have also been highlighted as detrimental factors, with Metro GameCentral giving the game a notably low score of 3/10 due to these problems. Critics such as Gaming Age and CGMagazine echo these sentiments, expressing disappointment over the lack of depth and engaging content, which ultimately leads to a feeling of missed potential. In summary, while "Maneater" boasts an innovative concept and moments of fun, the consensus among critics leans towards disappointment due to its repetitive design and technical flaws. Critics like Comicbook.com and GameOver.gr emphasize that the game fails to fully capitalize on its intriguing premise, resulting in a mixed reception overall. Despite some positive remarks about its humor and engaging gameplay, the overwhelming sentiment reflects that "Maneater" is a flawed experience that may appeal to casual players but ultimately falls short of its potential, as noted by various reviewers across different platforms.

TL;DR

"Maneater" garners mixed reviews; praised for its unique concept and chaotic shark gameplay, but marred by repetitive mechanics and technical issues. While some find it humorous and engaging, many critics deem it a missed opportunity with lackluster depth, making it more appealing to casual players than serious gamers. Overall, it’s a fun idea that ultimately flops.

MONSTER

Reviews

212 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Jul 7, 2020

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

Maneater is described as a hidden gem with a fun experience, despite not being universally praised. The ending provokes thought about the nature of monstrosity.

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Player 2

Xbox One

May 24, 2020

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

Maneater is a refreshing take on the open-world genre, offering a balanced experience that is both funny and engaging, making it a great choice for those fatigued by larger titles.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox One

May 22, 2020

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

Maneater is a brilliant game with a lot to offer, despite the need for a lock-on mechanic to improve combat. It's highly recommended for players.

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Shacknews

Xbox One

May 22, 2020

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

Maneater is a unique and enjoyable Shark-RPG that successfully captures the thrill of being an apex predator. Despite some narrative pacing issues and minor technical flaws, it offers a fun and engaging experience.

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The Digital Fix

PlayStation 4

May 22, 2020

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

Maneater is a straightforward game with a novel hook and a refusal to overcomplicate, making it one of the most entertaining games of the year.

GameSkinny

May 22, 2020

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

Maneater is a fun and engaging game that offers a unique open-world action RPG experience.

DarkStation

PlayStation 4

Jul 13, 2020

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

The reviewer loved Maneater tremendously and recommends playing it. No specific overall score is mentioned.

Impulsegamer

Jun 16, 2020

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

The game is described as a fun distraction with a recommendation to wait for a sale, indicating it is worth playing for those who enjoy light-hearted gameplay.

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GameSpace

May 27, 2020

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

Overall, Maneater is an engaging and visually stunning game with a unique premise, though it has some frustrating leveling mechanics that may challenge players early on.

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IGN Italia

Xbox One

May 22, 2020

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

Maneater is a well-crafted and entertaining title that successfully employs simple mechanics, appealing to players who enjoy repetitive gameplay for the sake of progression.