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MONSTER

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

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

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

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Martha is Dead impresses with its ambitious themes of trauma and identity against a WWII backdrop, earning praise for its emotional depth and intricate storytelling. However, critics find the narrative disjointed and confusing, with issues in pacing and coherence overshadowing its potential. The game sparks thought but leaves many players unsatisfied, resulting in a divided reception.

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 narrative of Martha is Dead has garnered some praise from critics for its ambitious exploration of heavy themes such as trauma, identity, and the psychological impact of war. Many reviewers, including Malditos Nerds and SpazioGames, commend the game for its intricate storytelling and emotional depth, highlighting how it effectively intertwines personal and historical elements. Critics like IGN and Jeuxvideo.com appreciate the dark and complex nature of the plot, emphasizing how it delves into the psychological horror stemming from familial loss. Additionally, the game's setting during World War II adds a significant layer of historical context that enhances the narrative's gravity, as noted by TheSixthAxis and Gaming Nexus. However, despite the positive aspects, a substantial number of critics have pointed out significant flaws in the storytelling. Reviewers such as Press Start Australia and GameGrin describe the narrative as disjointed and lacking coherence, leading to a confusing experience for players. Many critics, including Riot Pixels and VideoGamer, express disappointment with the execution of the story, citing predictability and a lack of clarity, particularly in the latter half of the game. The pacing and flow of the narrative have also been criticized, with Movies Games and Tech and LevelUp noting that the story can feel slow and convoluted, detracting from the overall engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Martha is Dead is mixed. While some reviewers appreciate the ambitious themes and emotional depth of the narrative, many others find it lacking in coherence and execution. The game has been praised for its potential to provoke thought and reflection, as noted by Gamers' Temple and Player 2, but it also faces criticism for its confusing elements and unsatisfactory resolutions. The duality of opinions suggests that while Martha is Dead attempts to tackle profound subjects, its delivery may not resonate with all players, leading to a divided reception within the gaming community.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Martha is Dead impresses with its unique photography mechanics and immersive exploration, delighting some critics. However, it falters with slow pacing, tedious gameplay, and technical issues. While the narrative potential shines, clunky execution and repetitive tasks lead many to feel it's more of a walking simulator than a compelling adventure. Overall, the game struggles to balance its storytelling ambitions with engaging mechanics, leaving players wanting more.

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 garnered some praise from critics, particularly regarding its unique photography mechanics and exploration elements. Several reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and God is a Geek, highlighted the engaging process of taking and developing photographs, which adds depth to the narrative experience. Critics like Multiplayer.it and VideoGamer noted that the photography mechanic is well-simulated, enhancing the overall immersion and emotional engagement of the story. The game’s focus on exploration, as mentioned by critics such as Eurogamer Italy and KeenGamer, allows players to interact with the environment and uncover narrative elements, which can be a rewarding experience for those who appreciate a slower-paced, narrative-driven adventure. However, the gameplay has received significant criticism for its pacing and execution. Many reviewers, including WellPlayed and Game Informer, described the gameplay as tedious and repetitive, with slow walking speeds and mundane interactions leading to a sense of chore-like progression. Critics such as GamingBolt and Press Start Australia pointed out that the mechanics often feel clunky and poorly integrated, with some tasks lacking engagement and variety. Additionally, several reviewers mentioned bugs and technical issues that hinder the experience, further detracting from the gameplay. The overall sentiment suggests that while the game has interesting ideas, the execution leaves much to be desired. The overall consensus among critics indicates that Martha is Dead struggles to balance its narrative ambitions with engaging gameplay mechanics. While some reviewers appreciate the unique aspects of photography and exploration, the majority express frustration with the slow pace, repetitive tasks, and lack of depth in gameplay. Critics like Riot Pixels and GameCritics encapsulated this sentiment well, noting that the game often feels more like a walking simulator than a fully realized interactive experience. Ultimately, while the game has its merits, it appears to fall short of delivering a cohesive and engaging gameplay experience, leaving many players wanting more from the mechanics that underpin its narrative.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" dazzles with stunning visuals that evoke the haunting beauty of 1940s Italy, earning praise for its photorealistic art and immersive atmosphere. However, technical flaws like texture pop-ins and frame rate issues mar the experience, leaving critics divided on its overall execution. While it's visually striking, the game needs refinement to overcome these performance shortcomings.

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 significant amount of praise from critics, particularly for their ability to evoke the haunting atmosphere of 1940s Italy. Many reviewers, including IGN France and Metro GameCentral, highlighted the game's stunning photorealistic art direction, which immerses players in a beautifully rendered world that contrasts serene landscapes with unsettling themes. Critics like TheXboxHub and CGMagazine emphasized the meticulous attention to detail in the environments, particularly in the interiors and lighting, which enhance the overall narrative experience. The game’s ability to create a vivid and immersive atmosphere, as noted by players from Game Informer and VideoGamer, is seen as a strong point that effectively captures the essence of the historical setting. However, alongside the accolades, several criticisms have emerged regarding the game's graphical performance. Multiple reviewers, including Shindig and Cultured Vultures, pointed out issues such as texture pop-ins, frame rate instability, and inconsistent model quality, particularly in outdoor settings. Critics like SpazioGames and KeenGamer noted that while the environments are visually appealing, character models and animations sometimes fall short of expectations, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, performance issues, including visible slowdowns, were mentioned by Xbox Tavern and SomosXbox, indicating that technical shortcomings can disrupt immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Martha is Dead" presents a visually striking experience that is both beautiful and atmospheric, yet marred by technical flaws. While many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and TrueGaming, praised the game's ability to create a captivating ambiance, the recurring mentions of performance issues and inconsistencies suggest that the game's visual design, despite its strengths, is not without its shortcomings. Critics seem to agree that while the game excels in creating a haunting and immersive world, it also requires further refinement to fully realize its visual potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" boasts exceptional sound design and music that critics hail for enhancing its psychological horror atmosphere. Italian voice acting and a haunting score build emotional weight, while period-appropriate music adds authenticity. However, some reviewers note flaws, such as generic tunes and inconsistent voice acting, which may impact immersion. Overall, audio elements are praised as a key strength of the game, enriching its narrative and experience despite some areas for improvement.

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 significant praise from various critics, highlighting their essential role in enhancing the game's atmosphere. Reviewers such as COGconnected and Jeuxvideo.com commended the powerful emotional impact of the Italian voice acting and the immersive score, which effectively builds tension and complements the narrative. Finger Guns noted the disjointed violin notes as a key element in creating a psychological horror atmosphere, while Games.cz emphasized how haunting music and sound effects contribute to the game's overall immersion. The incorporation of period-appropriate music, as mentioned by critics like MondoXbox and VGC, adds authenticity to the experience, further enhancing the emotional weight of the story. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some reviewers pointed out certain shortcomings. For instance, PlayStation Universe acknowledged that while the voice work is exceptional, some tunes may come off as generic, potentially detracting from the overall impact. WellPlayed expressed concerns about the voice acting being average, which could affect player investment in the narrative. Additionally, Press Start Australia mentioned that the soundtrack plays it safe, and Checkpoint Gaming noted that reliance on subtitles could detract from the tension, indicating that the audio experience might not be uniformly effective across all aspects of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of "Martha is Dead" significantly contribute to its immersive and atmospheric qualities. Most reviewers, including App Trigger and Gaming Nexus, agree that the audio elements are well-executed, enhancing the psychological horror experience and enriching the game's narrative. While there are some critiques regarding the consistency of voice acting and the originality of certain musical pieces, the general sentiment remains that the audio design is a standout feature that elevates the game's emotional and atmospheric depth.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" shines with exceptional Italian voice acting, praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, enhancing player immersion. Critics highlight standout performances, especially by Katie McGovern. In stark contrast, the English dub is largely criticized as subpar, with some reviewers calling it the worst since "Resident Evil," leading to a diminished experience. Players are advised to prioritize the original Italian for the most impactful narrative and atmosphere.

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 received considerable praise, particularly for its Italian performances, which many critics highlight as a key strength of the game. Reviewers from COGconnected and Games.cz commend the emotional depth and authenticity brought by the Italian voice actors, with Katie McGovern's performance noted for adding significant emotional weight to the narrative. Critics like KeenGamer and Malditos Nerds also emphasize the sincerity and depth of Giulia's voice acting, which fosters a strong connection between players and the characters. The consensus among many, including PlayStation Universe and MondoXbox, is that the Italian voice acting enhances the game's atmosphere, making it a more immersive experience. Conversely, the English dubbing has faced significant criticism, with several reviewers describing it as subpar. Finger Guns goes so far as to label it as some of the worst since "Resident Evil," indicating a notable detriment to immersion for players who opt for the English version. While some critics, like Gamers' Temple, found the English voice acting to be quite good, the overall sentiment leans towards dissatisfaction, especially when compared to the Italian performances. Additionally, translation issues have been noted by various critics, including Generación Xbox and Jeuxvideo.com, which can disrupt the experience and lessen the impact of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Italian voice acting is a standout feature that contributes significantly to the game's authenticity and emotional resonance, the English dub falls short in comparison. Critics like TheXboxHub and Eurogamer Italy underscore the importance of the original Italian performances, suggesting that players should prioritize this option for the best experience. Despite the mixed reception of the English voice acting, the overwhelming appreciation for the Italian performances indicates a strong foundation upon which the game's narrative and emotional engagement are built.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" struggles with severe technical issues across all platforms, including crashes, bugs, and frame rate drops, overshadowing its visual appeal and storytelling. While some performance is stable on PS5 and Xbox Series X, critics universally advise waiting for patches due to disruptive gameplay problems. The game shows potential, but its current state is far from enjoyable.

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.

The technical performance of "Martha is Dead" varies significantly across platforms, with some critics highlighting a few positive aspects. On the PS5, Jeuxvideo.com noted that the game runs well on recommended hardware despite experiencing some frame rate drops. Games.cz mentioned that while there are minor texture problems and occasional freezing, the game is generally stable, thanks in part to frequent autosaves. On the Xbox Series X, Metro GameCentral praised the game's impressive visuals and period detail, while MondoXbox reported a smooth performance with options for 1080p at 60fps or 4K at 30fps. On PC, IGN France indicated that the game performs well technically, with solid performance overall, although ray tracing can be demanding. However, the negative aspects of "Martha is Dead" are more pronounced and widely reported. On PS5, critics like App Trigger and Finger Guns pointed out significant technical issues, including freezing, crashes, and bugs that hinder gameplay. KeenGamer warned players to wait for patches due to frequent freezes and collision problems. The Xbox Series X version received harsh criticism from BaziCenter and GameGrin, who described it as "insanely buggy," with issues like lighting problems, infinite loading screens, and game-breaking bugs. On PC, multiple reviews, including those from Adventure Gamers and TrueGaming, highlighted severe performance issues, including game-crashing bugs and frame drops, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that "Martha is Dead" suffers from significant technical performance issues that detract from the gameplay experience. While some reviews acknowledged that the game has its strengths, such as visual detail and engaging storytelling, the overwhelming sentiment is that the technical problems—ranging from crashes and frame rate drops to game-breaking bugs—are too disruptive. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Twinfinite emphasized the need for patches to address these issues, suggesting that the game may not be fully enjoyable until these problems are resolved. Thus, while there are glimpses of potential in the game, the current state of technical performance leaves much to be desired across the board.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" has some replayable elements like multiple endings and collectibles, but critics largely agree its linearity, short playtime (4-7 hours), and lack of diverse gameplay severely limit its replay value. Most reviewers feel the game fails to offer compelling reasons for players to return after the first playthrough.

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 regarding the replay value of "Martha is Dead" reveal a few positive aspects that some reviewers have noted. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Generación Xbox highlight the presence of multiple endings and optional side missions, which can encourage players to revisit the game for a different experience. Additionally, God is a Geek points out that features like tarot card gameplay and collectibles can enhance the immersion, providing a sense of living through the narrative rather than merely observing it. This suggests that for some players, there are elements that might entice them to engage with the game again, particularly those interested in exploring the narrative's complexities. However, the majority of reviewers express significant concerns regarding the game's replay value. A consistent theme across many critiques is the game's linearity and straightforward nature, which limits the incentive for multiple playthroughs. Critics such as App Trigger and COGconnected emphasize that the game's short duration—around 4 to 7 hours—coupled with its lack of complex puzzles and gameplay variety, leaves little room for exploration beyond the initial experience. Finger Guns and Jeuxvideo.com further echo this sentiment, noting that the overwhelming narrative threads can confuse players, detracting from the desire to replay the game. Many reviewers, including TrueAchievements and Twinfinite, also point out that repetitive gameplay and limited objectives contribute to a feeling of low replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "Martha is Dead" offers some features that could promote replay value, such as multiple endings and side quests, these are overshadowed by the game's linear structure and short playtime. Most reviewers, including LevelUp and WellPlayed, agree that the lack of diverse gameplay mechanics and engaging challenges significantly diminishes the likelihood of players returning to the game after their initial experience. As a result, while some players may find value in exploring different narrative outcomes, the overwhelming majority of critics suggest that the game does not provide compelling reasons for repeated playthroughs.

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.

In analyzing the overall sentiment regarding "Martha is Dead," it is clear that many critics recognize the game's potential, particularly in its narrative and aesthetic presentation. Reviewers like KeenGamer and CGMagazine highlight the strong storytelling and impressive audio-visual elements, noting that the game offers a unique and mature narrative experience that stands out in the horror genre. Metro GameCentral and Eurogamer Italy also commend the game's graphics and immersive atmosphere, suggesting that the visual and auditory design contributes significantly to the game's impact. Critics such as SpazioGames and Malditos Nerds appreciate the deep themes explored within the narrative, indicating that there is a compelling story that resonates with players who favor psychological depth. However, despite these positives, a significant number of reviewers express dissatisfaction with various aspects of the game. Technical issues are a recurrent theme, with critics like Shindig and Gaming Nexus pointing out that performance problems severely limit enjoyment, particularly on older consoles like the Xbox One. GameGrin and Checkpoint Gaming describe the game as unenjoyable and mediocre, citing a lack of cohesive gameplay and a reliance on shock value rather than meaningful horror. Other reviewers, such as Game Informer and IGN Adria, criticize the convoluted nature of the story and gameplay, suggesting that the game fails to deliver on its intriguing premise and leaves players feeling disappointed. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed to negative reception for "Martha is Dead." While there is a clear appreciation for its narrative ambition and visual artistry, many reviewers, including GameSkinny and VideoGamer, point out that the game ultimately falls short due to technical flaws, pacing issues, and a lack of cohesive gameplay. This dichotomy suggests that while "Martha is Dead" has the potential to resonate with a niche audience interested in psychological horror, its execution leaves much to be desired, making it a challenging recommendation for a broader player base.

TL;DR

"Martha is Dead" impresses with strong storytelling and stunning visuals, earning praise for its mature narrative in the horror genre. However, a wave of technical issues, gameplay inconsistencies, and a convoluted story lead to a mixed to negative reception among critics. While it appeals to niche fans of psychological horror, its execution struggles, making it hard to recommend to the broader audience.

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.