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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

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

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 garners mixed reviews for its unique reality TV-style narrative and humorous take on a shark's revenge. While some critics praise its absurdity and character depth, many others slam it for lacking originality and depth, labeling the plot as clichéd and shallow. Ultimately, the story serves merely as a backdrop to the action, leaving players craving more substance.

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 received some commendations from critics for its unique approach and humor. Critics like New Game Network and PC Games appreciate the framing of the narrative within a reality TV format, which adds a layer of absurdity and entertainment to the gameplay. The character of Scaly Pete, as highlighted by God is a Geek, brings depth to the antagonist, providing a backstory that enhances the emotional stakes of the revenge plot. Furthermore, the game’s humorous take on a shark’s quest for revenge, as noted by GameSpot and EGM, successfully blends comedy with environmental commentary, making it a distinctive experience in the gaming landscape. However, the overall sentiment regarding the depth and engagement of the story is predominantly negative. Many critics, including Comicbook.com and XGN, point out that the narrative lacks depth and originality, primarily revolving around a simplistic revenge theme with minimal progression. The repetitiveness of the missions and the superficiality of the plot are echoed by reviewers like GameOver.gr and Gamersky, who describe the story as clichéd and bland. Critics such as DualShockers and 3DJuegos also note that while the reality TV format is an interesting choice, it does not compensate for the lack of narrative exploration and character development. In summary, while Maneater offers a humorous and unique premise that some critics find engaging, the consensus leans towards disappointment regarding its narrative depth and complexity. Critics like Press Start Australia and Gamer.no acknowledge the basic yet engaging storyline, but many others, such as PlaySense and Gaming Nexus, highlight the superficiality that undermines the potential of the game’s narrative. Ultimately, the game’s story serves as a light backdrop to the action rather than a compelling driving force, leaving many players wanting more from its narrative potential.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Maneater delivers an exhilarating shark RPG experience with addictive combat and enjoyable upgrades, immersing players in chaotic underwater action. However, critics note a frustratingly repetitive mission structure and shallow gameplay mechanics that dull the initial thrill. While the novelty captivates at first, the lack of variety leads to eventual monotony, leaving players wanting more depth and engagement in the long run. Overall, it’s a fun ride that risks becoming a grind.

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 garnered a mix of positive feedback, particularly regarding its engaging RPG elements and the thrill of controlling a shark in an open-world environment. Critics like GameSpew and Shacknews praised the fun and addictive nature of the combat, highlighting the satisfaction of evolving the shark through various abilities and upgrades. The game allows players to explore underwater environments and engage in chaotic shark attacks, which many reviewers found enjoyable. For instance, Digital Chumps described the gameplay as an "absolute joy to play," emphasizing the streamlined underwater mechanics and fun upgrade system. Additionally, critics such as XboxAddict noted the RPG elements that allow for customization and growth, contributing to a sense of progression that enhances the overall experience. However, despite these positives, a significant number of reviewers pointed out the game's repetitive nature and lack of depth in mission variety. Metro GameCentral and Comicbook.com highlighted the basic combat mechanics and the monotony of tasks, such as eating specific animals and fighting hunters, which can lead to a grind. Critics like Shindig and Nintendo Life echoed these sentiments, criticizing the shallow gameplay and clunky controls that detract from the experience. Many reviewers, including Vandal and Gamersky, noted that while the initial enjoyment is present, the gameplay becomes tedious over time, with missions often feeling like busywork rather than engaging challenges. The consensus among critics is that the novelty of the gameplay wears off quickly due to its repetitive structure and limited variety in objectives. Overall, the critics' consensus on Maneater reflects a divide between initial enjoyment and long-term engagement. While many reviewers appreciated the fun mechanics and the thrill of being a shark, the repetitive nature of missions and lack of depth in combat mechanics were commonly cited as significant drawbacks. Critics like We Got This Covered and Hardcore Gamer acknowledged that although the gameplay is enjoyable, it can feel simplistic and monotonous, leading to a decline in overall engagement as players progress. Ultimately, while Maneater offers a unique and entertaining premise, the repetitive gameplay loop and lack of mission variety seem to hinder its potential for sustained enjoyment.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Maneater impresses with vibrant underwater visuals and a colorful aesthetic, earning praise from critics for its immersive environments. However, it faces significant backlash for performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where graphics suffer in resolution and detail. Critics note a lack of polish, with some animations feeling rudimentary and framerates fluctuating. While the game has charm and standout moments, it ultimately fails to deliver consistent visual quality across platforms, leaving it feeling like a "B-game" in a modern landscape.

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 graphics and visual design of Maneater have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the underwater environments and the overall aesthetic appeal. Many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and Gaming Age, highlighted the game's vibrant and well-crafted visuals, especially in underwater settings where the detail and diversity of marine life shine through. Critics like GameGrin and PC Gamer noted that the game features impressive graphics, showcasing a colorful and immersive world that enhances the gameplay experience. The unique design elements, including the evolving aesthetics of the shark and the varied environments, were also commended, with players appreciating the attention to detail in both the underwater and above-water visuals. However, the criticisms regarding the graphics are equally prominent, particularly concerning performance issues and visual fidelity across different platforms. Reviewers such as Screen Rant and Attack of the Fanboy pointed out that the Nintendo Switch version suffers from reduced resolution and draw distance, leading to a less appealing visual experience compared to other platforms. Gamer.nl described the game as a 'B-game' with rough edges and fluctuating framerate, indicating a lack of polish. Additionally, critics like Everyeye.it and KeenGamer mentioned that the visual design feels rudimentary, with poor animations and a lack of detail in various environments, detracting from the overall immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Maneater offers a visually appealing experience with some standout elements, it is hampered by technical shortcomings and inconsistent quality across platforms. Many critics acknowledge the game's charm and fun visual style, as noted by Vooks and PlaySense, but also emphasize that it lacks the polish expected from a modern title. The mixed reviews indicate that while there are enjoyable aspects to the graphics, particularly in the underwater realms, the game ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently high-quality visual experience across all platforms, as reflected in the opinions of critics like DarkZero and ZTGD.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Maneater's sound design shines with Chris Parnell's witty narration, enhancing the game's comedic and immersive feel like a nature documentary. However, critics lament the repetitive audio elements and lack of variety during combat, leading to moments of monotony. While the humor elevates the experience, the overall sound design is seen as underdeveloped and lacking excitement.

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 garnered a range of opinions from various critics, with many highlighting the positive aspects of the game’s audio experience. A significant number of reviewers praised the humorous narration provided by Chris Parnell, which adds a unique charm and comedic context to the gameplay. Critics like Shacknews and Nintendo Life emphasized how Parnell's witty commentary enhances the immersion and enjoyment of the game, making it feel more like a nature documentary. The sound effects, particularly those that create an immersive aquatic environment, were also noted positively, with GameGrin and DarkStation highlighting the effective use of environmental sounds that contribute to the overall atmosphere of being a shark in the ocean. However, the criticisms regarding the sound design and music are quite pronounced. Many reviewers pointed out a lack of variety and excitement in the audio elements, particularly during combat sequences. For instance, Press Start Australia noted the absence of epic music to enhance the gaming experience, while IGN Italia remarked on the limited audio variety, which can detract from the overall enjoyment. The repetitiveness of Parnell's lines was another common concern, as highlighted by critics such as Hardcore Gamer and Push Square, who mentioned that while the humor is engaging, it can become monotonous over time. Additionally, some critics, like Gamer Escape and Game Informer, felt that the overall sound design did not receive enough emphasis, leaving it feeling somewhat underdeveloped. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Maneater features a strong comedic element through its narration, which significantly enhances the gameplay experience. However, this is often contrasted with a lack of musical variety and depth in sound design, which can lead to moments of monotony. Critics like Vandal and PC Gamer recognized the charm brought by Parnell's voice work but also pointed out that the sound design could benefit from more diversity and excitement. Thus, while the game excels in creating an engaging narrative atmosphere through its audio, it falls short in delivering a more dynamic and varied sound experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Chris Parnell's voice acting in Maneater receives high praise for its humor and charm, effectively enhancing the game's satirical tone. However, critics point out issues like minimal character voices and inconsistent language options that detract from immersion. Overall, while Parnell shines as a narrator, the voice acting quality is mixed, balancing strong highlights with notable weaknesses.

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 considerable praise, particularly for the performance of Chris Parnell, who serves as the narrator. Many critics, including PlayStation Universe and VideoGamer, highlight his ability to inject humor and charm into the game, effectively complementing its satirical tone. Reviews from IGN, XboxAddict, and Daily Star echo this sentiment, noting that Parnell's witty delivery enhances the overall experience and aligns well with the game's B-movie theme. The engaging and comedic nature of his narration has been described as a key element that brings levity to the game, making it more enjoyable for players, as noted by We Got This Covered and PC Gamer. However, the voice acting is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers, like But Why Tho? and IGN, point out that the voiceover can be grating or minimal, with characters lacking distinctive voices, which detracts from the immersion and personality of the shark hunters. Additionally, SpazioGames highlights a disjointed experience due to the inconsistency in language options, where the voice acting is in English while menus are in Italian without subtitles. Other critics, such as Hobby Consolas, mention that some hunter voices are not dubbed, which can further diminish the immersive quality of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a positive reception of Chris Parnell's voice acting. While many laud his performance for its humor and charm, there are notable concerns regarding the overall quality and consistency of the voice acting across different characters. Critics like Game Informer and Gaming Nexus suggest that while Parnell's contributions are strong, the limited frequency and lack of depth in other character interactions may hinder the narrative experience. Thus, while Parnell’s narration is a highlight, the execution of voice acting in Maneater presents a blend of strengths and weaknesses that ultimately shapes the players' experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Maneater shows mixed technical performance across platforms. Xbox One delivers decent gameplay at 30 FPS, while the Switch offers solid but glitchy experiences. PC players enjoy smoother performance, but the PS4 version is plagued by severe issues like crashes and data loss. Critics agree that despite some enjoyable moments, the game's technical flaws—especially on the PS4—frustrate players and diminish overall enjoyment.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of Maneater across various gaming platforms, it is essential to highlight the positives that some critics have noted. For the Xbox One, there are reviews like that of Vandal, who mentioned that the game runs smoothly at 30 frames per second without significant performance issues. Similarly, on the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including Nintendo Life and Hey Poor Player, reported solid technical performance with only minor glitches, indicating that the game is generally playable and enjoyable on this platform. On PC, many reviewers, including Gamer Escape and Meristation, found the game to perform well technically, with smooth gameplay and minimal bugs, suggesting a more polished experience compared to console versions. However, the negatives across platforms are quite pronounced. On the Xbox One, critics like Metro GameCentral and ZTGD pointed out significant technical issues, including graphical glitches, crashes, and performance drops that detract from the overall experience. The PS4 version appears to suffer the most, with numerous critics such as TheGamer and Game Rant highlighting severe technical issues like data-erasing bugs, framerate drops, and crashes, which significantly impact gameplay. On the Switch, while some critics found the performance acceptable, others like Shindig and Screen Rant noted framerate drops and visual limitations that hindered the overall experience. Meanwhile, PC players reported issues like AI problems and camera control difficulties, as noted by Atomix and Everyeye.it. The overall consensus among critics indicates a troubling trend in technical performance across all platforms. While the game has moments of stability and smooth performance, particularly on PC and to some extent on the Xbox One and Switch, the PS4 version is marred by significant flaws that many reviewers found unacceptable. Critics like Wccftech and GameSpot echoed the sentiment that the game suffers from inconsistent performance, especially on the PS4, where crashes and glitches are prevalent. The mixed reviews suggest that while Maneater has the potential for enjoyable gameplay, its technical shortcomings across various platforms significantly undermine the overall experience, leaving many players frustrated.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Maneater has a mixed reception on replay value. Critics praise its upgrades and collectibles, appealing to completionists with a variety of side missions. However, many also highlight the repetitive gameplay and uninspired mission design, which diminish long-term engagement. While some players may enjoy the initial exploration, the lack of depth and meaningful post-game content likely deter most from returning after their first playthrough. Overall, the game’s charm is overshadowed by its monotony.

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.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Maneater is mixed, with several critics highlighting positive aspects that could entice players to return. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and XboxAddict, noted the game's variety of upgrades and collectibles, which provide incentives for players to explore different playstyles and revisit areas. Critics like Finger Guns and Shacknews emphasized the wealth of side missions and collectibles, suggesting that completionists may find enough content to warrant multiple playthroughs. Additionally, some reviewers, including IGN Spain and Game Informer, pointed out that the game's length feels appropriate, offering a concise experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome, which can be appealing for players looking for a shorter yet engaging journey. Conversely, a significant number of critics expressed concerns about the game's repetitive nature, which they believe severely limits its replay value. GameSpew and Comicbook.com specifically pointed out that post-game activities mirror the main game, leading to a lack of fresh experiences for players. Metro GameCentral and PC Games echoed this sentiment by highlighting the monotonous gameplay loop and uninspired mission design that detracts from long-term engagement. Critics like Gamer.no and Twinfinite further reinforced this view, noting that once players reach maximum level or complete the main objectives, the incentive to continue playing diminishes, resulting in a lack of depth for repeated playthroughs. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Maneater offers certain elements that can enhance replay value, such as collectibles and character upgrades, the repetitive nature of its gameplay and missions creates a significant barrier to long-term enjoyment. Critics like Wccftech and PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledged that although the game provides a decent amount of content, the lack of meaningful endgame experiences and the repetitive mission structure may deter players from returning after their initial playthrough. Ultimately, while some players may find enjoyment in exploring the game’s world and completing side quests, many reviewers agree that the absence of variety and depth in gameplay limits the overall replay value of Maneater.

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 reveals a mixed bag of opinions, with several critics highlighting its unique premise and entertaining aspects. Reviewers like Gameblog.fr and PlayStation LifeStyle commend the game for its humor and engaging visuals, suggesting that it offers a distinct experience as players embody a shark in an open-world setting. Critics such as Finger Guns and Player 2 appreciate the fun and engaging nature of the gameplay, noting that it provides a refreshing take on the action-RPG genre. Furthermore, some reviewers, including Generación Xbox and The Digital Fix, emphasize the game's potential for enjoyment, particularly for those who appreciate its quirky narrative and chaotic gameplay. However, a significant number of critics point out the game's shortcomings, primarily revolving around repetitiveness and technical issues. Metro GameCentral and Softpedia express disappointment, labeling Maneater as a mediocre experience plagued by flaws that detract from its potential. Many reviews, including those from Comicbook.com and DualShockers, echo sentiments about the repetitive gameplay and lack of depth, indicating that while the initial concept is promising, the execution leaves much to be desired. Critics like Daily Star and New Game Network further note that the gameplay loop can become tiresome, diminishing the overall enjoyment over time. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Maneater has a solid foundation and a unique concept, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently engaging experience. Many reviewers, such as PC Gamer and Cultured Vultures, acknowledge the game's entertaining moments but highlight the repetitive nature of gameplay and technical limitations as major drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, there remains a faction of players who find value in its humor and chaotic action, with some recommending it during sales or for casual play. In summary, Maneater is seen as a fun but flawed title that may appeal to specific audiences, particularly those looking for light-hearted entertainment rather than depth and complexity.

TL;DR

Maneater offers a fun, unique experience as players become a shark in an open world, praised for its humor and visuals. However, critics highlight major issues like repetitive gameplay and technical flaws, leading to mixed reviews. While some find it entertaining and recommend it for casual play, many agree it misses the mark on depth and engagement, making it a flawed yet quirky title.

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.