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MONSTER

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One
Item: Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Simulation, Puzzle and Logic, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableNov 16, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFrogwares

Overview

In this story-driven detective thriller, a young Sherlock Holmes struggles to prove himself as he navigates an exotic, dangerous island in the Mediterranean to investigate the mystery of his mother’s death. As Sherlock, your legacy is written by the decisions you make in this open world. Deception, violence, and deduction are just a few resources in your arsenal—your mysterious companion and sounding board, Jon, is another. Whether you choose brute force to solve problems or stay one step ahead of your enemies by using your wits to spot vulnerabilities, you decide what each situation demands as you hone your investigative skills. It’s time to confront your past so you can become the legend you’re destined to be.

Elsewhere

7.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One" presents a mixed reception. Critics praise its deep emotional narrative and immersive setting in Cordona, with a compelling younger Sherlock and themes of mental health. However, many also slam its execution, citing vague plots, a rushed conclusion, and outdated minority portrayals. While some find the story engaging, significant flaws in pacing and clarity hold it back from true greatness, leaving players divided on their experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One" is a mixed bag, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers appreciate the game's exploration of a younger Sherlock Holmes, particularly his emotional journey and the personal stakes involved in investigating his mother's death. Critics such as Shacknews and PlayStation Universe commend the narrative for its engaging portrayal of Sherlock's origins, while GameGrin emphasizes the depth added by themes of mental health and trauma. The setting of Cordona, described as a fictional Mediterranean island, is often praised for its rich world-building and atmosphere, contributing to the immersive experience of unraveling the central mystery. Critics like IGN and PC Gamer note the intriguing detours and character dynamics, with some reviewers even pointing out the unique companion character, Jon, who adds depth to the narrative. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including Twinfinite and Adventure Gamers, express dissatisfaction with the execution of the story, citing vague elements and unresolved plot points that lead to a frustrating experience. Multiplayer.it and GameSpot echo this sentiment, stating that the main plot feels simplistic and lacks depth, with a rushed conclusion that diminishes the overall impact of the narrative. Additionally, The Indie Game Website raises concerns about outdated portrayals of minorities, which may detract from the story's effectiveness. Critics like Pure Xbox and TrueGaming also mention issues with unclear directions and roadblocks that hinder the player's investigative efforts, suggesting that the narrative could have benefited from a more coherent structure. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divide between appreciation for the game's ambitious storytelling and frustration with its execution. While many reviewers, such as Gamersky and Wccftech, find the narrative engaging and well-structured, others point out significant shortcomings that prevent it from reaching its full potential. The duality of opinions suggests that while "Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One" offers an intriguing exploration of its titular character, it struggles with pacing and clarity, leaving some players wanting a more satisfying and resolved experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One impresses with its engaging investigative mechanics and immersive open-world design, allowing players to gather clues and solve cases creatively. However, clunky combat and repetitive side quests detract from the overall experience, leaving critics divided. While the game shines in detective storytelling, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity due to poorly executed combat and lackluster activities.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the gameplay of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One, several critics commend the game for its engaging investigative mechanics and the depth of its clue-gathering processes. Reviewers like Worth Playing and God is a Geek highlight the satisfying detective experience that allows players to explore crime scenes, gather evidence, and utilize various tools such as the Mind Palace for deduction. The open-world design is noted by critics like GamingTrend and The Games Machine, who appreciate the freedom it provides in exploring the environment and interacting with characters, enhancing the overall immersion of the detective narrative. Furthermore, the game introduces new mechanics, such as disguises and a tiered system of cases, which add layers to the gameplay, as mentioned by Finger Guns and Ragequit.gr. However, the gameplay is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Twinfinite and IGN, express frustration with the combat mechanics, describing them as poorly executed and clunky, which detracts from the otherwise immersive detective experience. Critics like BaziCenter and Cultured Vultures point out that while the core investigative mechanics are enjoyable, the game suffers from a lack of engaging activities and repetitive side quests that make the open world feel empty. Additionally, several reviewers, such as Gaming Age and New Game Network, note that the overall experience can become stale over time due to the thin and repetitive nature of the core systems, particularly in combat. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between appreciation for the investigative aspects and disappointment in the combat and open-world execution. While many, including Shacknews and PC Invasion, recognize the game's potential in offering a compelling detective story and engaging puzzle-solving, they also emphasize that the poorly integrated combat and lack of meaningful side activities hinder the experience. Critics like IGN Italia and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, suggesting that the game feels like a missed opportunity due to its failure to fully capitalize on its intriguing concepts. Ultimately, Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One presents a blend of strong investigative gameplay and frustrating combat mechanics, leaving players with a sense of both satisfaction and dissatisfaction.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One impresses with its beautiful Mediterranean setting and detailed character models, earning praise for its artistic direction and immersive cutscenes. However, persistent technical issues like frame rate drops and glitchy graphics mar the experience, leaving critics disappointed with its overall execution. The game showcases potential but ultimately falls short of higher-budget polish, highlighting a need for improvements in future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics, such as Jeuxvideo.com and God is a Geek, highlight the game's beautiful setting on the fictional Mediterranean island of Cordona, noting its impressive architecture and vibrant artistic direction. The attention to detail in character models and environments is frequently acknowledged, with GameGrin and CGMagazine praising the lifelike representations and the authentic details that reflect the late 1800s setting. The cutscenes have also been described as visually stunning, contributing to the overall immersive experience, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Cultured Vultures. However, despite these positives, a significant number of critics have pointed out various technical issues that detract from the visual experience. Reviewers like BaziCenter and Push Square describe the graphics as outdated, with many citing frame rate drops, texture pop-in, and visual glitches as persistent problems. Critics such as Gaming Age and Pure Xbox express disappointment with the character models, describing them as bizarre and lacking interactivity, which leads to a feeling of lifelessness in the open world. The overall performance has been criticized for being unstable, with WellPlayed and AusGamers noting that these issues hinder the game's potential. The overall consensus among critics is that while Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One has moments of visual beauty and a captivating setting, it suffers from significant technical shortcomings that prevent it from fully realizing its artistic ambitions. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Vandal, agree that the game does not reach the polish of higher-budget titles, leading to a mixed reception. The combination of stunning environments and frustrating technical flaws creates a dichotomy that leaves players wanting more from the visual presentation, suggesting that the developers may need to address these issues in future updates or installments.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One boasts impressive sound design and a memorable soundtrack that enrich the game’s atmosphere, particularly praised by outlets like IGN France and Shacknews. However, critics highlight significant flaws, including repetitive dialogue and inconsistent voice acting, which detract from immersion. While the main character's performance shines, minor roles often lack depth, leading to a mixed reception overall. Improvements are needed to elevate the audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The sound design and music of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting several positive aspects. Many reviewers noted the effective sound design that complements the game’s atmosphere, enhancing immersion. For instance, Jeuxvideo.com emphasized how the sound design enriches the overall experience, while IGN France pointed out that the music features a memorable theme that reflects the Mediterranean setting. Critics such as Shacknews and Softpedia also praised the soundtrack for its ability to blend styles and enhance the game's ambiance, with TheXboxHub noting the dynamic nature of the soundtrack during action moments. Additionally, the voice acting received commendations from several reviewers, including GamingTrend, who highlighted Alex Jordan's stellar performance as Sherlock, contributing positively to the game's charm. Despite these positives, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. BaziCenter criticized the repetitive and dull dialogue, which detracts from the immersive experience expected in a detective game. Gamer.no echoed this sentiment, mentioning clumsy voice performances and repetitive NPC dialogue that contribute to a low-quality audio experience. Cultured Vultures found the music grating, particularly during combat, which detracted from the overall enjoyment. Furthermore, issues with voice line synchronization were noted by GamingBolt and Worth Playing, with the latter stating that minor characters often sounded like they were reading lines without context, which undermined the narrative quality. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment regarding the sound design and music in Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One. While many reviewers praised the atmospheric soundscapes and the quality of the main voice performances, concerns about repetitive dialogue, inconsistent voice acting, and the forgettable nature of some musical tracks were prevalent. Critics like Vandal and TrueAchievements highlighted the mixed quality of voice performances, suggesting that while the main characters were well-acted, minor characters often fell short. This dichotomy indicates that while the game has strong elements in sound design and music, significant areas require improvement to enhance the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One receives mixed reviews; Alex Jordan's portrayal of young Sherlock is praised for emotional depth, enhancing the narrative. However, criticisms arise regarding the clumsy performances of minor characters and repetitive dialogue, which detracts from immersion. While main characters shine, inconsistencies in the overall voice acting prevent it from fully hitting the mark.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly for the performances of the main characters. Reviewers such as GamingTrend and AusGamers have praised Alex Jordan's portrayal of young Sherlock Holmes, highlighting the emotional depth he brings to the character. Critics from Shacknews and WellPlayed have also noted the strong banter between Sherlock and his imaginary friend Jon, which adds charm and depth to their relationship, enhancing the overall narrative experience. Many reviewers, including those from Jeuxvideo.com and IGN Italia, have emphasized the quality of the English voice acting, asserting that it significantly contributes to character dynamics and overall immersion in the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the minor characters and the repetitiveness of certain lines. BaziCenter pointed out the disappointment in the repetitiveness of dialogue, which detracts from the game's narrative-driven focus. Critics like Gamer.no described the voice acting as clumsy, with stiff animations and artificial expressions that hinder immersion. Worth Playing echoed this sentiment by stating that the voice acting ranges from mediocre to bad, particularly in the case of minor characters, which disrupts the gaming experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as TrueGaming, mentioned that while voice acting is present, it does not significantly enhance the experience, with certain characters offering unhelpful commentary during investigations. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment towards the voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One. While the performances of the main characters, especially that of Alex Jordan, have been widely praised for their depth and engagement, there are significant concerns regarding the quality of minor roles and repetitive dialogue. Critics like COGconnected and GamingBolt have noted the disparity in quality between principal and minor roles, suggesting that while the core performances elevate the game, the surrounding elements may detract from the overall experience. The varied opinions indicate that while the voice acting has strong moments, it is marred by inconsistencies that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One showcases strong technical performance on PC, running smoothly at 60 FPS in 4K, but suffers serious issues across all platforms, including frame rate drops and stuttering on PS5 and Xbox Series X. While praised for potential and optimization on high-end systems, the game is marred by instability and glitches, with critics calling for urgent developer fixes to improve player experience. Overall, the technical performance is a major hurdle that needs addressing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

36%

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

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms The technical performance of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One exhibits some commendable aspects, particularly on PC. Critics like PC Invasion noted that the game can run at a stable 60 FPS at 4K resolution on high settings, showcasing the potential of high-end systems. Additionally, Ragequit.gr described the PC version as technically flawless, with no bugs encountered during gameplay, indicating that the game can perform well under optimal conditions. On Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox reported overall strong technical performance with only minor texture loading delays, suggesting that the game is generally well-executed for a large open world. Even on PS5, some reviewers, such as PlayStation Country, acknowledged the game as surprisingly advanced for its budget, highlighting excellent load times despite the presence of some technical hiccups. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms However, the overall technical performance of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is marred by numerous issues across all platforms. On PS5, critics like BaziCenter and GameSpot pointed out significant frame rate drops and stuttering, particularly when navigating the open world, which detracts from the overall experience. Similarly, Gamer.no criticized the developers' technical skills, suggesting a lack of polish in the game's performance. On Xbox Series X, multiple reviewers, including Hey Poor Player and IGN, echoed concerns about stuttering framerates and frame drops, which hinder gameplay fluidity. The PC version, while performing well on high-end systems, still faced criticism from IGN Italia for significant optimization problems, leading to a poor performance experience for some players. Overall Consensus of Critics Across All Platforms The consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is largely negative, with a strong emphasis on the game's instability and various technical glitches across all platforms. While there are pockets of praise for the game's potential, particularly on PC, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game suffers from significant performance issues that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Push Square and WellPlayed highlighted the frustrating nature of these technical problems, while many pointed to the developers' acknowledgment of these issues and the promise of future patches as a glimmer of hope for improvement. Overall, the game's technical performance appears to be a significant hurdle that developers must address to enhance player experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One offers a mixed bag for replay value. Critics praise its rich world and side quests, highlighting multiple outcomes that encourage revisits. However, concerns about repetitive gameplay and a lackluster open world dampen enthusiasm, making the game feel less compelling for repeat playthroughs. While some find enjoyment in its mysteries, the overall replay appeal is inconsistent, hinging on personal preferences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One reveal a mix of positive sentiments among critics, particularly those who appreciate the game's rich world and the variety of side cases available. Critics like Finger Guns and Gaming Nexus highlight the wealth of side quests and optional activities that contribute to the game's replayability, suggesting that players can immerse themselves in the detective experience beyond the main storyline. Additionally, several reviews, including those from GameSpot and Generación Xbox, note the potential for multiple outcomes and moral choices in investigations, which can motivate players to revisit the game and explore different narrative paths. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value due to repetitive gameplay elements and a lack of engaging content in the open world. BaziCenter and IGN specifically point out that the open world does not provide enough incentive for exploration, which may limit players' desire to return. Moreover, the repetitive nature of combat and the linear structure of the main story, as mentioned by GamingBolt and PC Invasion, detract from the overall experience and diminish the game's long-term appeal. Critics like SpazioGames and Gamer.no also emphasize that the limited impact of player choices can make revisiting the game feel less compelling. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed outlook on the replay value of Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One. While many acknowledge the presence of numerous side quests and engaging mysteries that could entice players to return, the repetitive gameplay and lack of significant consequences from choices ultimately undermine this potential. Critics such as Everyeye.it and PlayStation Universe encapsulate this sentiment by noting that while there is a decent amount of content, the game may not provide enough variety or depth to encourage repeated playthroughs. As a result, players may find enjoyment in the game, but its replayability may vary significantly based on individual preferences for exploration and engagement with the detective mechanics.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One, it is evident that many critics appreciate the game's ambitious narrative and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Cultured Vultures and Wccftech highlight the compelling story and charming characters, suggesting that the game successfully captivates players with its mysteries and character development. The visuals are frequently praised, with critics noting that the game offers a beautiful world to explore. For instance, IGN and PC Gamer commend the intriguing story and high production values, indicating that the game has a strong foundation that appeals to both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Xbox Achievements, emphasize the depth of the main cases and the insights into Sherlock's formative years, showcasing the game's potential to resonate with players. However, the game is not without its flaws, as numerous critics point out significant technical issues and gameplay shortcomings. Many reviewers, including Twinfinite and PlayStation Universe, criticize the unnecessary open-world elements that detract from the investigative core of the series, leading to a frustrating experience. Technical performance problems are a recurring theme, with critics like IGN and Screen Rant noting that these issues hinder the overall enjoyment of the game. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as GamingBolt and BaziCenter, mention pacing problems and a lack of interactivity, which contribute to a mixed overall impression. The repetitive investigation mechanics and frustrating puzzles also receive criticism, as seen in the opinions of GameSpot and New Game Network. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One offers a fresh take on the beloved detective character and presents an intriguing narrative, it is marred by technical shortcomings and gameplay flaws. Reviewers like TrueGaming and GameMAG suggest that despite these issues, the game remains enjoyable for fans of the genre, with potential for improvement through updates. Many critics agree that the game is a commendable entry in the franchise, with some considering it a significant step forward, as noted by Gamersky and PC Gamer. However, the mixed reviews indicate that while there are commendable aspects, the game ultimately falls short of its ambitious goals, leaving players wanting more.

TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One impresses with its engaging narrative and beautiful visuals, earning praise for its story and character depth. However, technical issues, gameplay flaws, and unnecessary open-world elements hinder the experience, leading to mixed reviews. While it's a commendable entry for fans, it ultimately falls short of its ambitious goals, leaving players wanting more.

MONSTER

Reviews

115 reviews found

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox Series X

Feb 23, 2022

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

A highly recommended game with a lot of content and a lower price point compared to AAA titles.

100

GameGrin

Nov 16, 2021

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

The review considers Sherlock Holmes Chapter One as one of the reviewer's favorite games of all time, praising its graphics, gameplay mechanics, and emotional story. The reviewer highly recommends the game to anyone with even a mild interest in it.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 5

Nov 15, 2021

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

Sherlock Holmes Chapter One is a masterpiece of a detective game that delivers a thoroughly enjoyable open-world adventure.

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Player 2

PlayStation 5

Nov 15, 2021

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

Overall, the game is considered the best in the series so far, with a satisfying story and gameplay, despite some frustrating mechanics.

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Ragequit.gr

Nov 16, 2021

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

Sherlock Holmes Chapter One is considered a really good, perhaps even excellent game, appreciated for its writing, gameplay, and visual design.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Nov 16, 2021

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

Overall, the game is well-received with a score of 8.8/10, praised for its story, gameplay, visuals, and sound design.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Dec 6, 2021

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

Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is a commendable entry in the franchise, showcasing a youthful version of the detective with a strong narrative, impressive visuals, and engaging gameplay.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Dec 3, 2021

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

Sherlock Holmes Chapter One is a fascinating and fantastic game for fans of Sherlock Holmes and investigative adventures. It has charm, wit, excitement, and chilling crimes. The inclusion of sensitive content raises questions about the developer's intentions, but overall, it is a thoroughly enjoyable game.

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CGMagazine

Nov 15, 2021

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

The reviewer considers Sherlock Holmes Chapter One to be their favorite game of the year, praising its charm, elegance, and respect for Doyle's original character.

Wccftech

Nov 15, 2021

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

Sherlock Holmes Chapter One is a significant step forward for the series, featuring a great story, charming characters, and engaging gameplay mechanics. It is highly recommended for fans of the series and adventure games.

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