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Martha is Dead

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Martha is Dead
Item: Martha is Dead
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

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

AvailableFeb 24, 2022

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

DeveloperLKA

Overview

Martha Is Dead is a dark first-person psychological thriller, set in 1944 Italy, that blurs the lines between reality, superstition and the tragedy of war.

Elsewhere

7.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" captivates with its deep themes of trauma and identity against a WWII backdrop, but falters in execution. Critics praise its psychological depth and unsettling storytelling, yet many express frustration over predictability, pacing issues, and convoluted plotlines. While it sparks thought and emotion, its disjointed narrative leaves a mixed reception among players. Bold concept, uneven delivery.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions surrounding the narrative of "Martha is Dead" reveal a significant appreciation for its thematic depth and emotional resonance. Critics like Twinfinite and Malditos Nerds highlight the game’s exploration of complex themes such as trauma, identity, and family dynamics, particularly through the lens of Giulia's investigation into her twin sister Martha's death against the harrowing backdrop of World War II. The narrative is commended for its psychological depth, with reviewers like Shindig and SECTOR.sk noting its ability to provoke reflection on heavy subject matter, including abuse and loss. Additionally, the incorporation of unique elements such as folklore and psychological horror, as mentioned by TheXboxHub, adds to the game's distinctive storytelling approach, making it a compelling experience for players willing to engage with its darker themes. However, despite its strengths, many critics express dissatisfaction with the execution of the story, citing issues such as predictability, pacing, and a lack of clarity. Riot Pixels and EGM point out that the narrative becomes convoluted and unsatisfying as it progresses, with underdeveloped plot threads and an unreliable protagonist. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and WellPlayed also mention pacing issues that contribute to a disjointed feel, making the story less memorable. Furthermore, several reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and God is a Geek, note that while the game starts strong, it ultimately loses focus and coherence, leading to a frustrating experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Martha is Dead" presents a bold and ambitious narrative that grapples with profound themes but struggles with its execution. While some, like TrueGaming and Push Square, find the story engaging and well-told, many others emphasize its shortcomings in clarity and cohesion, leading to a mixed reception. The game’s ability to provoke thought and evoke strong emotions is recognized, but the disjointed nature of the narrative and its eventual predictability detracts from the overall impact, leaving a divided opinion among the gaming community.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Martha is Dead offers unique gameplay elements like photography and exploration, praised for their immersive potential. However, critics highlight significant flaws: unfocused mechanics, tedious pacing, and a lack of interactivity reduce it to a guided narrative experience. Overall, the game struggles to balance its innovative ideas, leading to a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

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

The gameplay of Martha is Dead has been met with a variety of opinions, with some critics acknowledging its unique mechanics and immersive elements. For instance, GameGrin highlights the inclusion of various gameplay mechanics like telegraph sending and an in-depth photo mode, which adds a layer of interactivity to the experience. Similarly, VideoGamer appreciates the tactile nature of the gameplay, noting that the photography and exploration enhance the narrative experience. Critics such as Impulsegamer and Malditos Nerds also commend the intricate tasks and unique gameplay elements, like using a polaroid camera and engaging in narrative-driven actions, which contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere. However, a significant number of reviewers have pointed out various shortcomings in the gameplay. Press Start Australia describes the gameplay as unfocused and confusing, with mechanics that do not mesh well together. Riot Pixels criticizes the simplistic nature of the gameplay, where players often find themselves watching cutscenes or engaging in minimal interaction, leading to a sense of futility. Many critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and Push Square, express that the mechanics feel overwhelming and disjointed, detracting from the main narrative. The game is often labeled a walking simulator, with critics like Gaming Nexus and Movies Games and Tech noting its slow pacing and limited mechanics, which can make exploration feel tedious and restrictive. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Martha is Dead offers some intriguing gameplay mechanics, such as photography and exploration, these elements are often overshadowed by a lack of focus and depth. Many reviews indicate that the gameplay feels more like a guided narrative experience than a fully interactive adventure. Critics like GameMAG and Cultured Vultures emphasize that the game struggles to balance its various mechanics, resulting in a disjointed experience that fails to engage players effectively. As a result, while the game possesses the potential for a rich narrative experience, its gameplay ultimately leaves much to be desired, leading to a mixed reception from the gaming community.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Martha is Dead impresses with stunning photorealistic graphics that immerse players in 1940s Italy, praised for its detailed environments and cultural elements. However, performance issues like frame rate instability and shallow character models undermine the experience, leaving critics torn between its captivating visuals and frustrating technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Martha is Dead have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere set in 1940s Italy. Several reviewers, including IGN and GamesRadar+, noted the stunning photorealistic graphics that effectively capture the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, contributing to the overall immersion of the game. Critics from Press Start Australia and TheXboxHub praised the detailed environments, particularly the intricately designed interiors of the villa and the haunting landscapes, which enhance the narrative's emotional weight. The attention to detail, such as the representation of early 20th-century technology and the incorporation of Italian cultural elements, was also commended by reviewers like Malditos Nerds and Adventure Gamers, who emphasized how these aspects enrich the storytelling. However, despite the visual strengths, many critics pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Performance issues were a common concern, with several reviewers, including Shindig and Xbox Tavern, noting frame rate instability and texture pop-ins that disrupt immersion. Critics like SpazioGames and Checkpoint Gaming criticized the game's basic environmental design and lack of depth in character models, particularly in facial rendering. Additionally, inconsistencies in lighting and graphical fidelity were highlighted by GameOver.gr and IGN Italia, which further contributed to a sense of disconnection between the visuals and the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Martha is Dead boasts impressive visual elements that create a captivating atmosphere, it is hampered by technical issues and inconsistent quality in graphical detail. Reviewers like TrueGaming and Gaming Nexus acknowledged the game's strong visual design as a highlight, yet many echoed concerns regarding performance and graphical glitches that could hinder the player's experience. Ultimately, the game's visuals are a double-edged sword; they successfully evoke the haunting ambiance of its setting but are marred by technical shortcomings that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

TL;DR: The sound design and music in Martha is Dead are largely praised for their atmospheric and emotional depth, featuring powerful Italian voice acting and an immersive score. Critics commend the haunting soundtrack and effective ambient sounds, enhancing the psychological horror experience. However, some reviews highlight generic musical choices and average voice acting, with minor issues like subtitle problems noted. Overall, the audio elements significantly elevate the game's impact, despite a few shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Martha is Dead have received widespread acclaim from various critics, highlighting their significant contribution to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. Reviewers like COGconnected praised the "powerful" sound design, emphasizing the "emotional Italian voice acting" and an "immersive score" that enhances the overall experience. Finger Guns noted the inclusion of disjointed violin notes, which effectively contribute to the psychological horror atmosphere, while Games.cz highlighted the use of haunting music and sound effects that build a tense environment. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Cultured Vultures also commended the haunting soundtrack and authentic Italian voice acting, which together create a captivating and immersive experience for players. Despite the overall positive feedback, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Push Square mentioned that while the Italian voice acting and music enhance the narrative, some tunes felt generic. Additionally, WellPlayed criticized the voice acting as "average," suggesting it failed to convey the emotional weight of the story, which could impact player investment. Some reviews, such as that from Press Start Australia, described the soundtrack as "playing it safe," indicating a lack of boldness in certain musical choices. Furthermore, there were mentions of subtitle issues during cutscenes that detracted from the storytelling experience, as noted by GameCritics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Martha is Dead play a crucial role in creating an immersive and atmospheric experience. The combination of authentic Italian voice acting, haunting soundtracks, and effective ambient sounds has been lauded by many, including IGN Italia and Eurogamer Italy, who emphasized the depth these elements bring to the game's setting. While there are some criticisms regarding the musical choices and voice acting quality, the general sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers agreeing that the audio design significantly enhances the emotional and psychological impact of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Martha is Dead shines with praised Italian voice acting that adds emotional depth and authenticity, enhancing its Tuscan atmosphere. However, the English dubbing is criticized as subpar, lacking the same emotional engagement and causing immersion issues. Critics recommend players stick with the original Italian performances for a more authentic experience, highlighting a stark quality divide that affects overall enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Martha is Dead has garnered significant praise, particularly for its Italian performances, which many critics highlight as a key strength of the game. Reviewers such as COGconnected and Games.cz commend the emotional depth and authenticity brought to the characters, with Katie McGovern's portrayal being specifically noted for enhancing the overall experience. Critics from PlayStation Universe and MondoXbox echo this sentiment, asserting that the Italian voice acting contributes positively to the game’s atmosphere and immersion, effectively capturing the essence of its Tuscan setting. Additionally, KeenGamer emphasizes the sincerity and emotional depth of Giulia's voice acting, which plays a crucial role in fostering player connection to the narrative. However, the English dubbing has faced substantial criticism, with several reviewers deeming it subpar. Finger Guns notably describes it as among the worst since Resident Evil, suggesting it detracts from the immersion that the Italian performances provide. WellPlayed also reflects this sentiment, stating that the English voice acting lacks the emotional depth necessary to engage players fully. Some critics, such as Generación Xbox and Press Start Australia, point out translation issues that can disrupt the experience, further complicating the overall reception of the English version. This divide between the Italian and English performances highlights a significant inconsistency in quality that can affect players’ enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Italian voice acting is widely celebrated for its quality and emotional resonance, the English dub falls short of expectations, impacting the overall immersion of the game. Critics like TheXboxHub and Malditos Nerds reinforce the idea that the original Italian performances are preferable and should be the default choice for players seeking a more authentic experience. Despite some translation and dubbing issues, the game’s commitment to authentic Italian voice acting is a defining feature that many agree enhances the narrative and emotional weight of Martha is Dead.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" shows promise on PS5 and PC with decent performance and stability, but severe technical issues plague all platforms. PS5 faces frequent crashes, Xbox Series X is "insanely buggy," and PC suffers from frame drops and stuttering. Critics advise waiting for patches to fix these major flaws before diving in.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

38%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of "Martha is Dead" across various gaming platforms, some positives can be highlighted, particularly for the PS5 and PC versions. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com noted that the PS5 version runs well on recommended hardware, despite experiencing some frame rate drops. Additionally, Games.cz pointed out that while there are minor texture issues, the game is generally stable, thanks to frequent autosaves that help mitigate frustrations. On the PC side, IGN France praised the overall technical performance, noting that it performs well, particularly with ray tracing, while SECTOR.sk echoed this sentiment, highlighting good optimization and smooth performance even at high graphical settings. However, the negatives for each platform are significant and cannot be overlooked. For the PS5, critics such as App Trigger and Finger Guns reported severe technical issues, including frequent crashes, freezing, and glitches that severely disrupt gameplay. KeenGamer also warned players sensitive to stability issues to wait for patches. The Xbox Series X version faced even harsher criticism, with GameGrin labeling it "insanely buggy," mentioning issues like infinite loading screens and corrupted saves. Critics like BaziCenter and Twinfinite echoed concerns about performance issues, including frame rate drops and game-breaking glitches. On the PC front, reviewers like TrueGaming and New Game Network noted significant performance problems, including frame drops and stuttering, which detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms indicates that "Martha is Dead" suffers from substantial technical performance issues that overshadow its potential. While there are some positive remarks about stability on the PS5 and PC, the overwhelming feedback points to a game plagued by bugs and glitches. Critics like Game Informer and Cultured Vultures highlighted the need for patches to address these issues, suggesting that players may want to hold off on playing until the developers can resolve these technical shortcomings. The mixed sentiments indicate that while the game has its merits, the current state of its technical performance leaves much to be desired across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" offers a compelling narrative and some engaging features like collectibles and multiple endings, but critics largely agree it suffers from poor replay value. The game's linearity, short playtime (4-7 hours), and repetitive gameplay deter players from re-exploring it. Frustrations like unskippable cutscenes only add to the dissatisfaction. Overall, while it has its moments, it lacks the depth and mechanics needed for a rich replayable experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of "Martha is Dead" reveal a few positive aspects that some players might appreciate. Acknowledgment of the game’s narrative depth is common, with critics like God is a Geek pointing out that additional features such as tarot cards and collectibles can enhance the immersive experience. Some reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and Gamers' Temple, highlight the presence of multiple endings and side missions, suggesting that these elements could encourage players to revisit the game. Additionally, the exploration aspect mentioned by VGC indicates that while the main story is short, there are opportunities for players to engage with the game world in different ways. Despite these positives, the overwhelming sentiment leans towards a lack of significant replay value. Multiple critics, including App Trigger and COGconnected, emphasize the game’s linear nature and straightforward gameplay as major detractors. The short playtime, generally cited between 4 to 7 hours, combined with repetitive gameplay and limited choices, leads many, such as Jeuxvideo.com and WellPlayed, to conclude that the game does not offer enough incentive for players to return after completing it. Furthermore, the inability to skip cutscenes, highlighted by Gaming Nexus, is noted as a frustrating barrier that could discourage subsequent playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "Martha is Dead" provides a compelling narrative experience, its replay value is significantly hampered by its linear structure and lack of diverse gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like TrueAchievements and Twinfinite reiterate that the game is a short affair that does not encourage further exploration or engagement after the initial playthrough. The mixed remarks about side quests and optional objectives suggest that while there are some redeeming features, they are not substantial enough to elevate the game’s overall replayability. Thus, players seeking a rich, replayable experience may find "Martha is Dead" lacking in this regard.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Martha is Dead" reveals a complex landscape of opinions, with several critics acknowledging the game's strengths. Many reviewers, such as EGM and GamesRadar+, highlight the game's compelling narrative and strong psychological elements, noting that it explores deep themes and emotional depth. Critics like Push Square and COGconnected commend the impressive graphics and sound design, which contribute to an immersive atmosphere. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Malditos Nerds and SpazioGames, appreciate the game's ability to evoke strong emotions and offer a unique narrative experience, suggesting that it stands out within the horror genre for those who prioritize story over gameplay mechanics. However, the negatives are quite pronounced, as many critics point out significant flaws that hinder the overall experience. GameGrin and Checkpoint Gaming describe the game as unenjoyable and mediocre, respectively, with excessive mechanics and pacing issues detracting from the horror experience. Technical problems, including bugs and performance issues, are frequently mentioned, with critics like Game Informer and Twinfinite expressing disappointment over these shortcomings. Furthermore, the gameplay is often criticized for being monotonous and lacking in depth, as noted by IGN Adria and TrueGaming, leading to a disjointed experience that fails to fully engage players. In conclusion, while "Martha is Dead" has garnered praise for its narrative and artistic elements, the overall consensus among critics leans toward disappointment due to its gameplay and technical issues. Many reviewers, including GamingBolt and GameSpace, suggest that the game represents a missed opportunity, with its intriguing premise not translating into a cohesive and enjoyable experience. Ultimately, it appears that "Martha is Dead" may appeal to a niche audience who appreciates its thematic depth and visual artistry, but broader audiences may find its flaws too pronounced to overlook.

TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" impresses with its gripping narrative and stunning graphics, winning over some critics for its emotional depth and unique horror storytelling. However, significant gameplay and technical flaws, including pacing issues and bugs, leave many reviewers disappointed, labeling it as mediocre and unenjoyable. While it may attract those who value story over mechanics, broader audiences might struggle to overlook its shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

123 reviews found

100

Dexerto

Feb 24, 2022

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

A beautiful, contemporary work of visual art that pushes boundaries and immerses the player into a woeful world, not for the faint of heart

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100

Player 2

Apr 7, 2022

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

A breath of fresh air with a hard-hitting story, but may not be for everyone

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is a deeply immersive and mature horror adventure that tackles serious themes with a high level of detail in story, graphics, and sound, though it may not be suitable for all players.

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Wccftech

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is a true ghost story that meets and exceeds expectations, with a near-flawless design

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IGN France

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha Is Dead is praised as a near-perfect indie title with a compelling narrative, immersive gameplay, and high-quality audio-visual elements. It challenges players' perceptions of reality and imagination.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is a brilliant era-based thriller with a captivating story, amazing visuals, and a well-executed soundtrack. Despite the moments that have been censored by Playstation, the game offers much more than those moments. It is an experience that will stay with players for some time.

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Multiplayer.it

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is praised for its refined writing and excellent artistic direction, marking it as a standout title in its genre. It is described as a disturbing yet captivating experience that deserves to be explored.

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SECTOR.sk

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is a unique and immersive psychological thriller that combines a compelling narrative with impressive visuals and sound design, making it a noteworthy experience despite minor areas for improvement.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Feb 28, 2022

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

The reviewer considers Martha is Dead to be one of the best titles they've played this year, with a gripping and thrilling narrative.

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Malditos Nerds

Feb 24, 2022

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

Martha is Dead is a deeply impactful game with a unique story and immersive gameplay, despite some technical flaws. It is highly recommended for those seeking a mature narrative experience.