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Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened
Item: Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Horror, Puzzle and Logic, Stealth, Point & Click, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 11, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperFrogwares

Overview

Discover the adventures of Sherlock Holmes with a gripping atmosphere, for the first time ever delivered in a thoroughly intensive and wholly immersive real-time 3D world. Throughout your investigation you will meet more than sixty characters with whom you can interact freely. Hundreds of clues and objects will need to be scrutinized and utilized in order for the investigation to be solved.

Elsewhere

7.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened ambitiously merges classic detective storytelling with Lovecraftian horror, garnering praise for its engaging atmosphere and character dynamics. Critics celebrate the darker themes and emotional depth, highlighting the chemistry between Holmes and Watson. However, the execution falters, with issues in clarity, pacing, and character consistency—especially a less likable Sherlock. While some appreciate the unique blend of influences, many feel the narrative lacks depth and coherence, leaving players wanting a more polished experience. In short, it’s a bold yet flawed attempt at reinvigorating the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The story of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has received praise for its ambitious blending of the classic detective narrative with Lovecraftian horror elements. Critics like PC Gamer and GameSpew highlight the compelling nature of the story, which effectively combines themes of human evil and cosmic dread. Many reviewers, including Worth Playing and Hey Poor Player, appreciate the engaging atmosphere and the darker tone that the Cthulhu mythos brings to the narrative. The character dynamics, particularly between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, are noted as significant, with some critics, such as GameGrin and SpazioGames, emphasizing the emotional depth and interactions that enhance the storytelling experience. The game is recognized for its pacing and structure, with IGN Spain mentioning the well-structured plot that takes players on a journey across various locations. However, the game has also faced criticism for its execution and coherence. Several reviewers, including Games.cz and New Game Network, point out that the narrative suffers from a lack of clarity and fails to build tension effectively, leaving some plot threads unresolved. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Hooked Gamers note inconsistencies in character development, particularly with a younger, less likable Sherlock Holmes, which detracts from the overall experience. The execution of the plot has been described as clumsy by Gamereactor UK, while Pure Xbox mentions that investigations and characterizations suffer due to the circumstances of the game's development. Overall, many reviewers agree that while the story has intriguing elements, it lacks the depth and emotional resonance expected from the franchise. The overall consensus among critics is that Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened presents a unique narrative that attempts to blend the worlds of Arthur Conan Doyle and H.P. Lovecraft, but it struggles with execution and character development. While some reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and IGN Italia, find the story engaging and well-structured, others, like Everyeye.it and Hooked Gamers, express disappointment in its predictability and lack of originality. The game is recognized for its ambition and atmosphere, yet many critics, including Generación Xbox and WellPlayed, feel it ultimately falls short of fully realizing its potential. Thus, while the game offers a fresh take on the beloved detective, it leaves many players yearning for a more polished and cohesive narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has divided critics; while its engaging investigative mechanics and Mind Palace system receive praise for immersing players in detective work, many lament the game’s linearity and simplistic gameplay. Critics note a regression in complexity compared to previous titles, highlighting repetitive tasks and a lack of engaging puzzles, which diminishes excitement. Overall, it’s a familiar yet shallow experience that may disappoint long-time fans seeking depth and challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has garnered some praise from various critics, highlighting its engaging investigative mechanics and the immersive experience of piecing together clues. Many reviewers, such as WellPlayed and Gaming Age, appreciated the game’s focus on deduction and the incorporation of the Mind Palace system, which allows players to connect evidence and draw conclusions. Critics like MondoXbox and PC Gamer noted that the gameplay feels straightforward yet elegant, successfully simulating the experience of being a detective. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming pointed out the game's deduction system and optional side cases that encourage exploration and replayability, adding depth to the overall experience. However, the game has faced significant criticism regarding its gameplay structure and mechanics. Multiple reviewers, including GamingBolt and Starbit, expressed frustration with the linearity and lack of variation, stating that the gameplay can feel repetitive and uninspired. Critics such as Eurogamer Poland and Ragequit.gr noted a regression in gameplay complexity compared to previous titles, with fewer interactive elements and a reliance on trial and error that can lead to player frustration. Furthermore, Pure Xbox and Generación Xbox highlighted the absence of engaging puzzles and the lack of consequences for errors, which diminishes the overall challenge and excitement of investigations. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception of the gameplay in Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened. While some reviewers appreciate the streamlined mechanics and the engaging detective work, many others lament the linearity and lack of depth compared to earlier installments in the series. Critics like CD-Action and IGN echoed sentiments of superficiality in the casework, suggesting that the game may not meet the expectations of long-time fans. In summary, while the game offers a familiar detective experience with some enjoyable elements, it falls short in delivering the complexity and engagement that many players desire.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened impresses with its atmospheric graphics and historical detail, earning praise for immersive environments, especially in London and New Orleans. However, it suffers from inconsistent character models, poor animations, and technical issues, leaving critics disappointed with its polish. While improvements over the original are noted, the visuals don't quite meet modern gaming standards, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

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: The Awakened have received a mix of praise, particularly for their atmospheric quality and improvements over the original game. Critics from various outlets, such as IGN Spain and Finger Guns, commend the use of lighting and detailed environments, noting that the game successfully creates an immersive experience. The environments, especially those set in London and New Orleans, are highlighted for their historical authenticity and visual appeal, with TheXboxHub mentioning the impressive detail in facial animations and clothing. Additionally, PlaySense and Games.cz pointed out that the graphics have been significantly modernized, contributing positively to the overall experience and showcasing the game's potential. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's graphics and visual design. Several reviewers, including CD-Action and GamingBolt, highlight issues with inconsistent character models, poor animations, and a lack of detail in textures. Everyeye.it describes the visual design as modest, while Softpedia points out lip-syncing problems and reused assets that detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, critics like Gamereactor UK and Hooked Gamers mention technical issues such as jerky animations and muddy textures, indicating that the game does not fully meet the standards expected from a modern title. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened features improved graphics and a compelling atmosphere, it falls short in several technical aspects that hinder its visual impact. Many reviewers acknowledge the enhancements made compared to the original game, but they also express disappointment over the lack of polish in character animations and environmental details. Critics like Vandal and New Game Network note that although the visuals contribute to the game's atmosphere, they do not quite reach the level of excellence seen in other contemporary titles. Thus, while the game has made strides in visual design, it remains a mixed bag in terms of execution and overall quality.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened" features praised sound design and a compelling soundtrack that enhance its immersive atmosphere and narrative. Critics commend the voice acting, especially of Sherlock and Watson, for depth, though some note it can be inconsistent and "clunky." Despite minor critiques regarding memorability and lip-syncing issues, the overall consensus is that the audio elements significantly enrich the gaming experience, making sound a standout aspect of the title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened" have received generally positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as CD-Action and GamingTrend, highlight the solid sound design and effective soundtrack that contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere. CGMagazine and Softpedia specifically commend the sound design for creating a sense of foreboding and an eerie ambiance that enhances the game's darker themes. Voice acting has also been a standout feature, with critics like WellPlayed and PlaySense praising the performances of the main characters, Sherlock and Watson, for their depth and fitting delivery. Overall, the audio elements, including music and voice work, are acknowledged for significantly enriching the player's experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critiques point out shortcomings in certain areas. Worth Playing describes the voice acting as "clunky and uninspired," which detracts from the overall immersion. Additionally, some reviewers, such as XboxEra, mention that while the music and sound effects contribute to the atmosphere, they are not particularly memorable. Critics like Pure Xbox also note issues with lip-syncing in cutscenes, which can disrupt the experience, especially in a narrative-driven game. While the soundtrack and sound design are generally appreciated, there are hints that they could have been more impactful. The overall consensus among critics is that "Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened" excels in its sound design and music, effectively enhancing the game's atmosphere and narrative engagement. Most reviewers agree that the audio elements, particularly the voice acting and ambient sounds, play a crucial role in immersing players within the game's world. While there are some criticisms regarding the memorability of the soundtrack and certain inconsistencies in voice acting, the majority of feedback leans towards a positive appreciation of the audio experience. Critics like IGN Spain and Digital Chumps encapsulate this sentiment by emphasizing how the sound design and music elevate the overall gameplay, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened boasts standout voice acting, especially Alex Jordan's portrayal of Holmes, praised for emotional depth and chemistry with Watson. Critics largely celebrate its contribution to the game's atmosphere. However, inconsistencies in secondary character performances and lip-sync issues detract from the experience, highlighting a mixed reception. Overall, strong performances shine but technical flaws prevent it from being a complete triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has received considerable praise from a majority of critics, highlighting it as a strong aspect of the game. CD-Action commends the voice acting as a strong point that enhances the overall experience, a sentiment echoed by Finger Guns, who describes it as top quality. Alex Jordan's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes has been particularly lauded, with GamingTrend emphasizing the emotional depth he brings to the character. Critics from various platforms, including PlayStation Universe and WellPlayed, also affirm the excellence of the performances, noting the strong chemistry between Holmes and Watson, which adds to the game's charm. The overall sentiment from multiple reviewers suggests that the voice acting contributes significantly to the game's atmosphere and narrative depth. However, not all feedback is positive, as some critics point out inconsistencies and issues that detract from the overall experience. Everyeye.it notes that the voice acting is inconsistent, especially for secondary characters, which may impact immersion. Worth Playing describes the voice acting as ineffective and clunky, suggesting it hampers emotional storytelling. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from IGN and Generación Xbox, mention problems with lip-syncing that distract from the otherwise strong performances. This inconsistency highlights a divide in the quality of voice acting across different characters and scenes, which some players may find detracting. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened has many strong points, particularly with the main characters, there are notable inconsistencies that could affect the experience for some players. Most critics, like Digital Chumps and Meristation, agree that the voice acting enhances the narrative, but the criticisms regarding secondary characters and lip-sync issues indicate room for improvement. The game seems to strike a balance, with a solid foundation of quality performances overshadowed by some technical flaws, making it a mixed but generally positive aspect of the overall gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened shines on PS5 with smooth performance and minimal bugs, earning high praise from critics. In contrast, the Xbox Series X suffers from frustrating bugs and synchronization issues, while the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by severe rendering problems and frame rate drops. Overall, the PS5 version is the clear winner, highlighting the need for better optimization on other platforms due to rushed development.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with the PS5 generally receiving a more favorable reception. Critics like Finger Guns and GamingTrend praised the PS5 version for its smooth performance and consistent frame rates, noting improvements over previous titles. Additionally, Hey Poor Player highlighted fast load times and the absence of bugs, while IGN Spain acknowledged the stable technical performance despite the challenges faced during development. Overall, the PS5 version appears to deliver a solid experience, with many reviewers appreciating the enhancements made. Conversely, the Xbox Series X version presents a mixed bag of technical issues. While XboxAddict reported a smooth experience, other critics such as MondoXbox and Impulsegamer pointed out specific bugs that hindered gameplay, including a significant bug that required replaying an entire chapter. Synchronization issues were also noted by Generación Xbox and Pure Xbox, indicating that while the game runs well, there are still notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch, the situation is even more dire, with Pocket Tactics and Pure Nintendo reporting severe rendering issues and frequent frame rate drops that significantly impact gameplay. Starbit echoed these sentiments, mentioning unfinished animations that disrupt immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened performs admirably on the PS5, technical issues plague the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch versions. Critics like CD-Action and Everyeye.it recognized the rushed development cycle as a contributing factor to the game's inconsistencies, particularly on the PS5, where some glitches were deemed forgivable. Meanwhile, the Xbox Series X and Switch versions struggle with various bugs and performance-related issues that hinder the experience. In summary, while the PS5 stands out as the most polished platform, the other versions fall short, indicating a need for further optimization and refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened elicits mixed reviews on replay value. Some critics praise optional side cases and unlockables that entice dedicated players to revisit, while many highlight its linear structure and lack of compelling side quests as major drawbacks, diminishing replay potential. Overall, most agree the game struggles to offer enough incentive for multiple playthroughs, making it less appealing for casual audiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened reveal a mix of positive aspects that some critics appreciate. For instance, Checkpoint Gaming highlights the game's optional side cases and the rewards for discovering clues, which can motivate players to revisit chapters for missed content. Similarly, Hey Poor Player points out that multiple playthroughs are necessary for 100% completion due to bonus unlockables like outfits, collectibles, and concept art, suggesting that dedicated fans might find enough incentive to return. Additionally, Digital Chumps mentions the inclusion of difficulty modes and a reward system that encourages replaying for collectibles and bonuses, which adds another layer of engagement for players seeking deeper gameplay experiences. Conversely, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, primarily due to its linear structure and lack of meaningful side quests. CD-Action notes that the linear nature of the game, coupled with the absence of compelling side quests, limits the incentive for players to revisit the game. Similarly, Player 2 mentions that the short playtime and lack of complexity compared to other entries in the series contribute to a diminished replay value. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Xbox Achievements echo this sentiment, with the latter stating there is "zero replay value" after completing the game once, indicating a consensus that the game may not offer enough to entice players back for additional runs. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a divided perspective on the replay value of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened. While some reviewers, like TouchArcade, argue that there is significant replay potential for hardcore fans, the majority highlight limitations stemming from the game's linear design and relatively short playtime. Critics such as Vandal and Worth Playing emphasize that the game lacks substantial elements that would encourage multiple playthroughs, leading to a general sentiment that, despite some redeeming qualities, the game may not hold up as a replayable experience for the broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment regarding "Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened," several reviewers highlight positive aspects of the game. Critics like XboxAddict and GameGrin commend its engaging storytelling and immersive gameplay, emphasizing the successful blend of Sherlock Holmes with Lovecraftian themes. Additionally, Adventure Game Hotspot praises the remake for its sharp storytelling and impressive production values, labeling it a must-play for fans of detective games. Other reviewers, such as WellPlayed and Checkpoint Gaming, also note the excellent voice acting and solid writing, contributing to a compelling experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers express disappointment with certain aspects of gameplay and execution. For instance, New Game Network harshly states that the game is "not a good detective game and is best left unsolved," while Gamereactor UK points out that it feels "caught between two worlds," failing to meet modern standards or satisfy classic adventure fans. Critics like IGN and Eurogamer Poland highlight gameplay flaws and superficial storytelling, suggesting that the game lacks the depth and innovation seen in previous entries. Performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, were also noted by Pure Nintendo, which detracts from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics appears to be a mixed bag. While many recognize the game's strengths in storytelling and atmosphere, as noted by critics like Impulsegamer and GamingTrend, there is a prevailing sentiment that it falls short of the high standards set by its predecessors. The game is often described as a solid but flawed remake, appealing primarily to diehard fans of the series, as suggested by Pure Xbox and Hooked Gamers. Ultimately, while "Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened" succeeds in certain areas, it struggles with technical execution and innovation, leading to a divided reception among critics.

TL;DR

"Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened" impresses with its engaging storytelling and immersive gameplay, blending detective work with Lovecraftian themes. Critics praise its voice acting and production values, making it a must-play for fans. However, it suffers from gameplay flaws, superficial storytelling, and performance issues, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—solid but flawed, appealing mostly to diehard fans while falling short of the franchise's former glory.

MONSTER

Reviews

84 reviews found

Digital Chumps

Jun 22, 2023

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

Overall, Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened (2023) is considered a phenomenal mystery game with an engaging storyline, great features, and beautiful graphics, despite being shorter than its predecessor.

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Apr 18, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a huge success and a very solid Sherlock game.

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Adventure Game Hotspot

May 26, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a stellar remake and sequel that combines sharp storytelling, engaging gameplay, and impressive production values, making it a must-play for fans of detective games.

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PSX Brasil

PlayStation 4

Apr 11, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a well-crafted remake that elevates the original game, offering a compelling story and dynamic gameplay, though some may miss the open-world aspect of its predecessor.

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Impulsegamer

Xbox Series X

Apr 19, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a compelling game with immersive storytelling and enjoyable gameplay. The accurate portrayal of the time period adds to its credibility and quality.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 5

Apr 11, 2023

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

A fun journey with attractive sights and sounds, but with some shortcomings in scope and side-quests.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Apr 11, 2023

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

The game is praised as a masterful detective game with outstanding writing and a satisfying deduction system. The reviewer expresses hope for a sequel.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Apr 11, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a creative and captivating remake that deepens the narrative experience, despite some minor technical flaws.

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GameGrin

Apr 11, 2023

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

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a great game with enjoyable puzzles, a fun story, and beautiful visuals. It impresses considering its one-year development time.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

May 1, 2023

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

Overall, the game is considered an impressive entry into the Sherlock Holmes series, with a strong narrative and polished execution despite some minor flaws.

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