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Nobody Wants to Die

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Nobody Wants to Die
Item: Nobody Wants to Die
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Interactive Movie, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableJul 17, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCritical Hit Games

Overview

Lose yourself in the dystopian world of New York, 2329; immortality comes at a price that someone has to pay. In this interactive noir story, lead the investigation using advanced technology, as Detective James Karra who risks it all in pursuit of a serial killer targeting the city’s elite.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Nobody Wants to Die" impresses critics with its gripping narrative and deep themes of immortality, societal decay, and class disparity, featuring a compelling protagonist, detective James Karra. While praised for its strong storytelling and engaging murder investigation, some reviews highlight issues like shallow plot depth and tonal inconsistencies. Overall, it offers a rich experience for fans of complex narratives, despite areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of "Nobody Wants to Die" has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and thought-provoking themes. Reviewers like Generación Xbox and Slant Magazine commend the game for its exploration of immortality, societal decay, and class disparity, set against a moody cyberpunk backdrop. The protagonist, detective James Karra, is portrayed as a compelling character navigating a complex plot filled with ethical dilemmas and personal trauma. Critics such as GamingBolt and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the strong narrative structure, with intriguing mysteries and a gripping murder investigation that resonates well with players seeking depth in storytelling. However, despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the execution of the narrative. Jeuxvideo.com expressed concerns about the lack of depth and unresolved plot points, while WellPlayed criticized the hasty exposition and tonal dissonance that detracted from the experience. Additionally, IGN Italia mentioned a shift in focus from a traditional crime-solving plot to a more existential narrative, which may leave some players feeling disappointed. These critiques suggest that while the foundation of the story is strong, the delivery may not meet the expectations of all players. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that "Nobody Wants to Die" offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that successfully explores complex themes within a dystopian setting. While there are criticisms regarding certain aspects of storytelling and execution, the majority of reviewers, including those from Pure Xbox and XboxEra, agree that the game presents a rich and engaging experience that resonates with fans of deep narratives. Overall, the game stands out for its ambitious storytelling, despite some areas that could benefit from refinement.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Nobody Wants to Die impresses with innovative mechanics like the Reconstructor and portable x-ray, earning praise for its engaging narrative and exploratory gameplay. However, critics slam its linearity and repetitive nature, likening it to a walking simulator rather than a true detective experience. The overall verdict? Some intriguing moments, but a frustrating lack of depth and player agency leaves many wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The gameplay of Nobody Wants to Die has garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its innovative mechanics and narrative-driven approach. Reviewers like XboxEra highlighted the use of futuristic tools such as the Reconstructor and portable x-ray, which add a unique flavor to the investigative experience. The engaging nature of piecing together clues and reconstructing crime scenes has been noted by several critics, including Pure Xbox and PlaySense, who appreciated the fresh take on detective mechanics. Additionally, TheXboxHub found the exploration aspect to be a positive, allowing players to interact with environments in a meaningful way, despite the linear structure. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism for its limitations and lack of depth. Many reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and Jeuxvideo.com, pointed out that the game leans heavily towards a linear progression that feels more like a walking simulator than a true investigative experience. Critics like Impulsegamer and INVEN echoed this sentiment, noting that the gameplay can become repetitive and overly simplistic, with minimal challenge or player agency. The overall consensus suggests that while the game offers some engaging moments, it often feels guided and restrictive, leaving players wanting more autonomy and complexity in their investigations. In summary, the overall sentiment among critics regarding the gameplay of Nobody Wants to Die is mixed. While some appreciate the innovative mechanics and narrative focus, many others criticize the linearity and lack of depth, with terms like "guided" and "repetitive" frequently appearing in reviews. Critics such as Eurogamer and GamingBolt highlighted the limited player agency and the feeling of being on a predetermined path, which detracts from the overall experience. Ultimately, while the game has its strengths, the consensus indicates that it may not fully satisfy those seeking a robust and challenging detective gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Nobody Wants to Die dazzles with stunning visuals and immersive environments, showcasing the power of Unreal Engine 5. Critics rave about its photorealistic neo-noir world, likening it to Bioshock and Blade Runner. However, character modeling falls short, with some textures criticized as muddy, detracting from the overall experience. Still, the game's visual triumphs largely overshadow these flaws, marking it as a standout in modern gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Nobody Wants to Die is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising its stunning visuals and immersive environments. Many reviewers, including Generación Xbox and Impulsegamer, highlighted the impressive capabilities of Unreal Engine 5, which contributes to the game's photorealistic environments and richly detailed neo-noir world. The game is frequently described as visually stunning, with critics from Pure Xbox and WellPlayed noting the gorgeous aesthetics, impressive lighting, and environmental details that elevate the game's presentation to a AAA level. The creativity in world design, as mentioned by TheXboxHub, adds to the game's allure, drawing comparisons to iconic titles such as Bioshock and Blade Runner, showcasing a successful blend of classic noir with a retrofuturistic style. However, despite the general acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in character modeling. Jeuxvideo.com specifically mentioned that character models were the least aesthetically developed aspect of the game, a sentiment echoed by several others, including Push Square and PlaySense, who noted that while the environments are wonderfully realized, character textures can appear rough or muddy up close. This inconsistency in character design detracts from the otherwise high-quality visual experience, as highlighted by critics like PlayStation Universe, who pointed out that some textures lack detail, which can disrupt immersion. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Nobody Wants to Die excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a captivating and immersive experience that effectively utilizes Unreal Engine 5. The stunning cityscapes and noir aesthetic have garnered significant praise, with many reviewers emphasizing the game's ability to transport players into a richly detailed dystopian world. Despite some critiques regarding character modeling and texture quality, the majority of opinions indicate that the game's visual achievements outweigh its shortcomings, making it a noteworthy title in the realm of modern gaming.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise the sound design and music of Nobody Wants to Die for creating an immersive neo-noir atmosphere, with a standout "rich, jazzy soundtrack." However, some point out limitations like minor volume balance issues and inconsistent voice acting. Overall, the audio elements significantly enhance the gaming experience, despite a few areas for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Nobody Wants to Die have garnered a largely positive response from critics, who highlight the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere through its audio elements. Impulsegamer praises the "rich, jazzy soundtrack" that enhances the neo-noir setting, while TheXboxHub describes the soundtrack as "beautifully haunting," emphasizing its significant contribution to the overall experience. Critics such as WellPlayed and XboxEra echo this sentiment, noting the sultry saxophone and trumpet arrangements that perfectly complement the noir aesthetic. IGN Italia also commends the voice acting alongside the music, reinforcing the immersive film noir atmosphere, which has resonated well with players across different platforms. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out areas for improvement in the sound design and music. Jeuxvideo.com notes that while the soundtrack by Mikolai Stroinski is effective, the game could benefit from more open spaces to fully appreciate the city's construction, suggesting that the audio experience might be somewhat limited by the game's design. Additionally, Movies Games and Tech mention minor volume balance issues, which could detract from the immersive quality that many players seek. PlaySense also raises concerns about the emotional delivery of voice acting feeling inconsistent at times, indicating that while the music and sound design are strong, the overall audio experience is not without its flaws. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Nobody Wants to Die are commendable and significantly enhance the game's atmosphere. The majority of reviewers, including those from Impulsegamer, TheXboxHub, and Multiplayer.it, agree that the audio elements contribute positively to the immersive experience, creating a captivating neo-noir environment. While there are some criticisms regarding the execution of voice acting and the need for more expansive soundscapes, these concerns do not overshadow the overall appreciation for the game's audio artistry.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "Nobody Wants to Die" is widely praised for its emotional depth and strong character chemistry, enhancing the game's film noir narrative. Critics highlight standout performances, particularly from Phillip Sacramento and Keaton Talmadge, as key to player immersion. However, issues like spelling mistakes and rushed pacing detract from the experience. Overall, while minor flaws exist, the voice acting is a major asset that elevates the storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Nobody Wants to Die" has received widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's narrative depth and immersive experience. Impulsegamer praises the "superb" chemistry between the main characters, which enhances the storytelling. Similarly, TheXboxHub notes the high quality of voice work, particularly appreciating the lead actors for adding depth to their characters. Critics from IGN Italia and INVEN also emphasize how the voice acting effectively fits the film noir theme, creating an engaging atmosphere that draws players into the story. Overall, the performances have been described as emotionally resonant, with Movies Games and Tech specifically commending the emotional range displayed by actors Phillip Sacramento and Keaton Talmadge. However, despite the overall positive sentiment, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the experience. WellPlayed mentions issues with spelling mistakes and transcription errors in the dialogue, which can disrupt immersion. Jeuxvideo.com, while acknowledging the engaging nature of the protagonist's voice acting, also criticizes the game's rushed narrative delivery and the absence of a journal to track the investigation, which could have enhanced player engagement. Additionally, PlaySense notes that while the voice acting is strong, one character's emotional range may come off as exaggerated at times, suggesting inconsistencies in performance. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Nobody Wants to Die" is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game's narrative and emotional engagement. While there are some criticisms regarding dialogue quality and narrative pacing, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive. Critics like XboxEra and XGN highlight the effectiveness of character interactions, further solidifying the voice acting as a key element that elevates the game's storytelling. This blend of strong performances, despite minor flaws, showcases the potential of voice acting to enrich the gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Nobody Wants to Die" impresses with solid technical performance on Xbox Series X and PS5, earning praise for smooth gameplay and robust graphical settings that capture its cyberpunk aesthetic. Critics highlight its 'AAA' feel and effective use of Unreal Engine 5, though minor flaws like dialogue errors and low-quality textures have been noted. Overall, the game shines in its genre but has room for refinement before reaching its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Nobody Wants to Die" has garnered generally positive feedback from critics across both the Xbox Series X and PS5 platforms. On the Xbox Series X, reviewers from Generación Xbox and Impulsegamer highlight the game’s smooth gameplay and impressive visuals, noting that it runs well and offers options for graphical settings that enhance performance or quality. Jeuxvideo.com also commends the game for providing a choice between performance and quality modes, which contributes to the successful representation of its cyberpunk aesthetic. Pure Xbox praises the game for feeling 'AAA' from a technical perspective, further emphasizing its solid performance on this platform. Similarly, on the PS5, IGN Italia and Jeuxvideo.com echo these sentiments, noting that the game maintains smooth gameplay while offering quality and performance options. Multiplayer.it adds that both consoles showcase the capabilities of Unreal Engine 5 effectively, with minor differences in resolution and frame rate. Despite the overall positive reception, some criticisms have emerged regarding technical performance on both platforms. On Xbox Series X, WellPlayed points out that while the game runs smoothly, there are dialogue errors that indicate a need for additional polish, suggesting that not all aspects of the game are fully refined. On the PS5, PlaySense mentions that some textures can appear low quality, particularly during investigative segments, which detracts from the overall visual experience. Push Square also notes signs of the game being a lower budget title, even though it manages to execute its ambitious vision well. These critiques highlight that while the technical performance is generally solid, there are areas where the game could benefit from further refinement. The overall consensus among critics is that "Nobody Wants to Die" delivers commendable technical performance across both the Xbox Series X and PS5 platforms, with a strong emphasis on smooth gameplay and graphical options. Critics like Generación Xbox and IGN Italia affirm the game's ability to perform well and maintain high visual fidelity, while others like WellPlayed and PlaySense point out specific areas for improvement. Ultimately, the game is seen as a successful representation of its genre, with the technical performance being a notable strength, though not without its minor flaws that could be addressed in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Nobody Wants to Die" has mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise its multiple endings and short runtime (5-6 hours) as motivators for replaying. However, its linearity, lack of chapter select, and unsatisfying conclusions frustrate players, undermining the experience. While curiosity may draw players back, the overall sentiment suggests limited replay potential due to repetitive gameplay and minimal impact from choices.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of "Nobody Wants to Die" highlight some positive aspects that encourage players to revisit the game. Several critics, including Impulsegamer and XboxEra, note that the game features multiple endings based on player choices, which can motivate players to explore different narrative outcomes. Eurogamer also mentions that the game's manageable 5 to 6-hour runtime makes it feasible for players to replay the game to experience these varied endings. Furthermore, TheXboxHub suggests that the engaging universe created by Critical Hit Games leaves players wanting more, hinting at a level of replayability driven by curiosity and investment in the game's world. However, there are significant criticisms that undermine the overall replay value of "Nobody Wants to Die." A recurring theme among reviewers like Generación Xbox, Jeuxvideo.com, and GamingBolt is the game's linearity, which limits player agency and the depth of investigative mechanics. Critics such as WellPlayed and PlaySense point out the absence of a chapter select feature, which forces players to replay the entire game to experience different outcomes, a factor that can be frustrating and time-consuming. Additionally, Slant Magazine and IGN Italia highlight that the game’s conclusion may feel forced or unsatisfying, which can deter players from wanting to replay the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the potential for replayability through multiple endings and dialogue choices, but also emphasizing the limitations imposed by the game's linear structure and lack of meaningful consequences from player decisions. While some critics, like Movies Games and Tech, recognize that the short length allows for quick replays, the general sentiment leans towards a lack of significant replay value due to the repetitive nature of the gameplay and the absence of impactful choices. Thus, while "Nobody Wants to Die" offers some incentives for replaying, the overarching sentiment suggests that these factors may not be enough to encourage players to return for multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards "Nobody Wants to Die," it is clear that critics have found much to praise about the game. Many reviewers highlighted its captivating narrative and impressive visuals, with Generación Xbox calling it one of the best indie games of 2024. The game's cyberpunk film noir atmosphere was consistently noted, with critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Eurogamer emphasizing the strong world-building and engaging thematic elements. The immersive experience provided by the stunning visuals and atmospheric sound design also garnered positive remarks, with XboxEra even labeling it as one of their favorite games in a long time. Overall, the storytelling and presentation have resonated well with fans of narrative-driven adventures, making it a standout title in the genre. However, despite the numerous strengths, several critics pointed out significant weaknesses that detract from the overall experience. A recurring theme in the reviews is the game's linear gameplay and lack of depth, with many noting that the guided investigations limit player agency. For instance, Slant Magazine and INVEN both expressed disappointment regarding the gameplay limitations, which may not satisfy players seeking a more interactive experience. Additionally, some critics like WellPlayed and GamingBolt mentioned narrative shortcomings, particularly concerning dialogue errors and a disappointing narrative shift towards the end. The short length of the game was also a common point of contention, with Pure Xbox and others suggesting that while the experience is gripping, it may feel too brief for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be that "Nobody Wants to Die" is a visually stunning and narratively compelling experience, but it is hampered by gameplay limitations and a linear structure. While many reviewers, such as Movies Games and Tech and PlaySense, found the game to be captivating and worth playing, they also acknowledged the need for improvements in gameplay mechanics and narrative depth. The game is generally recommended for fans of the genre, particularly those who appreciate atmospheric storytelling, but it may not fully satisfy players looking for a more interactive or replayable experience.

TL;DR

"Nobody Wants to Die" shines with a captivating narrative and stunning visuals, earning praise as one of the best indie games of 2024. Critics laud its immersive cyberpunk atmosphere and strong world-building. However, it suffers from linear gameplay, limited player agency, and narrative flaws, leaving some feeling the experience is too brief. Recommended for fans of atmospheric storytelling, but it may disappoint those seeking depth and interactivity.

MONSTER

Reviews

81 reviews found

XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Jul 18, 2024

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

Nobody Wants to Die is an incredible experience with engaging gameplay, captivating story, stunning visuals, and a memorable soundtrack, making it one of the reviewer's favorite games in a long time.

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Movies Games and Tech

PlayStation 5

Aug 12, 2024

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

Overall, Nobody Wants To Die is a captivating experience with a strong narrative, stunning visuals, and engaging gameplay, despite its linear structure and short length.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Aug 29, 2024

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

Nobody Wants to Die is highly praised for its engaging story, unique gameplay, and stunning visuals, deserving of significant recognition.

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Gameliner

Aug 29, 2024

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

Overall, Nobody Wants To Die is a standout title that exceeds expectations with its stunning graphics, engaging story, and solid gameplay, despite some minor flaws. It is recommended for players looking for a fresh and immersive experience.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Aug 19, 2024

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

Overall, 'Nobody Wants to Die' is praised as one of the best indie games of 2024, with a captivating narrative and impressive visuals, though it may feel short and too guided for some players.

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COGconnected

Jul 26, 2024

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

One of the most original and striking games of the year, with outstanding world-building, excellent writing and acting, intriguing narrative and themes, but with some bugs and over-familiar tropes.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jul 19, 2024

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

A fantastic narrative title with a terrifying world and engaging gameplay, despite some minor shortcomings.

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PCGamesN

Jul 29, 2024

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

Overall, Nobody Wants to Die is an impressive debut that successfully combines noir storytelling with engaging visuals, despite some narrative and gameplay shortcomings.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jul 22, 2024

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

Nobody Wants to Die is praised for its narrative depth, strong writing, and immersive world, but criticized for its linear gameplay. It offers a compelling experience for fans of narrative-driven adventure games.

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Impulsegamer

Xbox Series X

Aug 8, 2024

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

A gripping, thought-provoking cyberpunk thriller that excels in storytelling and presentation, appealing to fans of slow-burn mysteries.

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