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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

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

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

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a bold, atmospheric blend of detective brilliance and cosmic horror, praised for its ambitious fusion of Arthur Conan Doyle’s logic with H.P. Lovecraft’s dread—yet undermined by inconsistent storytelling, underdeveloped villains, and awkward execution, splitting critics between awe at its ambition and frustration over its flaws.

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 narrative of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened receives praise for its ambitious fusion of Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective work with H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror, creating a compelling and atmospheric experience. Critics like IGN Spain highlight the game’s complex plot that intertwines Holmes’ rationality with Lovecraftian madness, while TheXboxHub and Pocket Tactics commend its twists and engaging storytelling. The supernatural elements, such as Cthulhu mythology and occult conspiracies, are frequently noted for their intrigue, with GameGrin emphasizing the emotional depth of Holmes and Watson’s partnership, and Adventure Game Hotspot praising the psychological depth and character arc continuity from Sherlock Holmes Chapter One. Many reviewers also appreciate the game’s brisk pacing and immersive world-building, as seen in PC Gamer’s mention of a “creeping sense of dread” and GamingBolt’s observation of its cerebral and bizarre narrative. However, several critics point to significant flaws in execution. Hooked Gamers and Eurogamer Poland criticize the story’s inconsistency, with the latter noting that the remake’s younger, less likable Holmes disrupts character development. PlaySense and Games.cz describe the plot as flat and lacking excitement, while IGN and CD-Action point to weak scares, poor dialogue delivery (e.g., “loose lip syncing”), and unresolved threads. The narrative’s reliance on Lovecraftian tropes is seen as uneven: Starbit mentions a lack of authentic terror in the finale, and Finger Guns criticizes underdeveloped villains and a rushed conclusion. Additionally, New Game Network and Worth Playing highlight the story’s failure to deliver satisfying crime-solving mechanics, with Generación Xbox noting awkward integration of Lovecraftian elements despite timeline clarifications. Overall, the critics present a mixed but nuanced consensus. While many celebrate the game’s unique blend of detective work and cosmic horror, its execution is frequently undermined by narrative inconsistencies, underdeveloped characters, and pacing issues. Positive reviews from IGN Spain, GamingBolt, and Adventure Game Hotspot underscore the story’s ambition and atmospheric strengths, but negative critiques from Hooked Gamers, Eurogamer Poland, and PlaySense reveal widespread dissatisfaction with its coherence and emotional depth. The game’s appeal hinges on its willingness to embrace Lovecraftian weirdness, which some find thrilling (e.g., Xbox Achievements) while others deem overdone or poorly realized (e.g., Games.cz). Ultimately, The Awakened is seen as a bold but uneven attempt to merge two iconic genres, with its story’s strengths and flaws equally pronounced.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened earns praise for its engaging investigation mechanics and modernized Mind Palace system, but faces criticism for its linear structure, repetitive tasks, and simplified puzzles, leaving fans divided between accessibility and a perceived lack of depth.

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 receives mixed praise, with several critics highlighting its strengths in investigative mechanics and narrative engagement. MondoXbox and XboxEra commend the game’s focus on exploration, reasoning, and the Mind Palace system, which allows players to reconstruct crime scenes and deduce conclusions through evidence. Adventure Gamers note that the gameplay has become more accessible compared to earlier entries, with streamlined puzzles and a focus on deduction that appeals to fans of the series. Additionally, critics like Games.cz and Push Square appreciate the dynamic detective mechanics, including tools like "Concentration" for analyzing details and reconstructing events. The game’s emphasis on intellectual challenge and narrative immersion is seen as a highlight by several reviewers, particularly those who value the traditional point-and-click adventure style. However, numerous critics criticize the game’s gameplay for its linear structure, repetitive tasks, and lack of innovation. Starbit and Eurogamer Poland describe the experience as overly simplistic, with minimal interaction beyond walking and observing, while GamingBolt and IGN note that the investigation mechanics often feel obtuse or frustrating due to poor guidance. The removal of complex puzzles and the shift toward a more straightforward approach is highlighted as a drawback by CD-Action and Pure Xbox, who argue that the game lacks depth compared to previous installments. Additionally, critics like God is a Geek and Wccftech point out the absence of hint systems or objective markers, which can lead to players getting stuck. The repetitive nature of case-solving and the restrictive rules governing deductions are also frequently mentioned as negatives, with Some reviewers feeling that the game prioritizes ease over challenge. Overall, the consensus among critics is divided, reflecting a mix of appreciation for the game’s investigative focus and frustration with its lack of complexity. While some praise the streamlined mechanics and modernized approach—such as the Mind Palace system and narrative-driven exploration (MondoXbox, Adventure Gamers)—others argue that the game feels like a step backward in terms of innovation and depth (Eurogamer Poland, IGN). The linear structure and repetitive case design are recurring criticisms, with many noting that the gameplay lacks the unpredictability and challenge of earlier entries. Despite these issues, the game’s dedication to its detective theme and intellectual puzzles retains appeal for fans of the genre, even if it fails to fully satisfy those seeking a more intricate or open-ended experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Praised for cinematic environments and atmospheric depth, Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened falters with clunky animations, recycled assets, and technical flaws, offering a flawed but improved visual experience over its 2007 predecessor.

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 reviews of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened highlight several positive aspects of its graphics and visual design, particularly the improved environments and atmospheric elements. Critics like CGMagazine praised the game’s use of darkness and light to create a compelling atmosphere, while Finger Guns noted the detailed environments in London and New Orleans, emphasizing their cinematic quality. Games.cz and IGN Spain highlighted significant graphical upgrades over the original 2007 version, with the latter commending the artistic quality of lighting and character costumes. Push Square and TheXboxHub celebrated the immersive historical settings and seamless integration of real-world visuals, while SpazioGames acknowledged convincing character models for an AA title. These positives collectively underscore the game’s modernized aesthetic and efforts to enhance immersion through environmental storytelling. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the visual design, particularly in character animation, textures, and technical execution. CD-Action criticized inconsistent character models and poor animations, while GamingBolt described characters’ faces as “clay-like” and textures as bland. Gamereactor UK and Hooked Gamers highlighted issues like jerky animations, poor lip-syncing, and muddy textures, with IGN noting the recycling of character models and environments. Softpedia and WellPlayed pointed to outdated animations and technical glitches, such as “janky movement” and “muddy textures,” while NME found the visuals unimpressive compared to AAA standards. These critiques reveal a recurring theme of underwhelming execution in key areas despite the game’s ambitious design goals. The overall consensus among critics is that Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened represents a significant visual upgrade from its 2007 predecessor but falls short of modern AAA benchmarks. While Games.cz and BaziCenter acknowledged improved graphics as a positive, many felt the game’s technical limitations—such as stiff animations, reused assets, and subpar textures—hindered its impact. IGN Italia and Meristation noted that while the atmosphere is engaging, the visuals are the weakest aspect, and XboxEra described it as “a massive improvement” but still lacking in detail. Despite mixed reactions, the game’s artistic direction and environmental design were frequently praised, suggesting a balance between progress and persistent technical shortcomings. Ultimately, reviewers saw it as a step forward for the series but one that could have been more polished.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened's immersive, eerie atmosphere driven by a tense, period-appropriate soundtrack and stellar voice acting for Holmes and Watson, though some call the music forgettable and note minor issues like clunky dialogue or lip-sync flaws. Overall, audio design elevates the game’s mystery but remains a subtle, functional force rather than a standout feature.

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 are widely praised for their ability to immerse players in the game’s atmospheric world. Critics like CD-Action, CGMagazine, and GamingTrend highlight how the soundtrack effectively sets a dark, tense tone, with CGMagazine noting its role in creating "a sense of foreboding" that sustains throughout the experience. Hey Poor Player and PlayStation Universe commend the "mood-setting soundtrack" and "sensational voice acting," particularly for characters like Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, which aligns with the game’s period setting. IGN Spain and Vandal emphasize how the music and sound design enhance narrative depth, while Softpedia and SpazioGames acknowledge the eerie, immersive qualities of ambient tracks. Even critics on PC platforms, such as Adventure Gamers and Digital Chumps, praise the musical scores for their ability to evoke unique atmospheres in each level, reinforcing the game’s mysterious and unsettling tone. While most reviews are positive, some critiques point to specific shortcomings. Worth Playing criticizes the voice acting as "clunky and uninspired," which detracts from immersion, while Pure Xbox notes issues with lip-syncing in cutscenes despite improved audio quality. Impulsegamer mentions that dialogue can feel "hollow" in 5.1 surround sound on older hardware, though this is framed as a minor issue. SpazioGames and XboxEra observe that the soundtrack, while effective, lacks memorability, with the latter noting that the music "is not particularly memorable." Additionally, some reviewers, like Adventure Game Hotspot and PlaySense, describe the audio elements as subtle or unobtrusive rather than standout features, suggesting a balance between functionality and artistic ambition. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the sound design and music consistently recognized for their contribution to the game’s immersive atmosphere. While there are minor criticisms regarding voice acting quality and musical memorability, these are overshadowed by the general praise for how audio elements enhance storytelling and environmental immersion. Reviewers like WellPlayed and IGN Spain highlight the excellence of voice work, particularly in capturing the essence of Holmes and Watson, while others, such as XboxEra and PlayStation Universe, emphasize the period-appropriate soundscapes that bolster the game’s narrative. The mixed feedback on specific technical aspects does not detract from the broader appreciation for how audio design elevates Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened into a cohesive, atmospheric experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened shines with Alex Jordan’s sharp Holmes and Andrew Wincott’s grounded Watson, earning universal acclaim for emotional depth and character nuance. While technical hiccups like clunky delivery and uneven lip-syncs linger, critics across platforms praise the performances as a narrative cornerstone, overshadowing flaws with immersive storytelling and nostalgic charm.

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 is widely praised as a standout element, with multiple critics highlighting its quality and impact on the game’s narrative. Reviewers like CD-Action, Finger Guns, and WellPlayed emphasize that the performances—particularly Alex Jordan’s portrayal of Sherlock Holmes and Andrew Wincott’s depiction of Watson—bring depth and emotional resonance to the characters. GamingTrend and XboxEra note how these voices elevate the storytelling, while Adventure Game Hotspot and Adventure Gamers commend the strong character development driven by the voice work. The return of veteran talent for Holmes and Watson is also celebrated, with Hey Poor Player calling it “terrific” and PlayStation Universe praising the supporting cast’s contributions. Even TouchArcade highlights a nostalgic touch from Mega Man’s voice actor, adding to the game’s charm. However, some critics point to technical or inconsistent aspects of the voice acting that detract from the experience. Worth Playing criticizes the “ineffective and clunky” delivery, which they argue undermines emotional storytelling, while Generación Xbox and Pure Xbox note issues with lip-syncing in cutscenes, calling it a distracting flaw. IGN specifically mentions “loose lip syncing during dialogue scenes,” and Xbox Achievements observes that Watson’s actor has fewer opportunities to shine compared to Holmes. These critiques suggest that while the performances themselves are strong, technical execution—particularly in animation synchronization—can hinder immersion for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily positive, with most acknowledging the voice acting as a key strength despite minor flaws. The majority of reviews, including those from IGN Spain, Softpedia, and SECTOR.sk, frame it as a “strong point” that enhances the game’s atmosphere and narrative. While a few reviewers like Worth Playing and IGN highlight specific issues, these are often overshadowed by praise for the main characters’ performances. The combination of skilled voice actors, emotional depth, and attention to character dynamics creates a cohesive and immersive experience, making the voice acting a critical component of the game’s success.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened delivers polished performance on PS5/Xbox Series X/PC but struggles with glitches, animation issues, and severe technical flaws on Switch, offering a mixed but improving experience overall.

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 across platforms, with notable strengths on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. On PS5, several reviewers praised the game’s smooth gameplay, consistent frame rates, and minimal glitches, with Finger Guns highlighting “smooth performance” and PlaySense noting a “stable framerate” despite minor issues in the final battle. The Xbox Series X also saw positive feedback, as BaziCenter noted improved optimization for current-gen consoles, while XboxAddict reported no technical difficulties, calling it a “polished experience.” On PC, critics like Digital Chumps and Wccftech emphasized flawless performance with no lag or glitches, and Multiplayer.it praised the game’s ability to run at 60 FPS without issues. These platforms generally received praise for stability, modern graphics, and reduced bugs compared to earlier titles. However, technical shortcomings were evident across all platforms. On PS5, critics like CD-Action and GamingBolt highlighted “rushed development” leading to glitches, janky controls, and inconsistent camera behavior, while Softpedia noted reused assets and lip-syncing issues. The Xbox Series X faced challenges with animation quality (BaziCenter) and specific bugs, such as a chapter-replay issue (MondoXbox) and a “falling loop” bug (XboxEra). On PC, Adventure Gamers and IGN Italia criticized facial animations and lighting inconsistencies, while IGN pointed to “abrupt transitions” and recycled assets. The Nintendo Switch struggled the most, with Pocket Tactics and Pure Nintendo reporting frequent frame drops and rendering issues, and Starbit noting unfinished animations that disrupted immersion. These flaws underscored the game’s uneven technical execution across platforms. Overall, critics acknowledged a mixed but generally improving technical performance compared to previous entries in the series. While PS5 and Xbox Series X received praise for optimization and stability—despite some glitches—PC was lauded for smooth performance, albeit with animation issues. The Switch, however, faced significant challenges, with critics like Pocket Tactics and Starbit calling its technical shortcomings a major drawback. Despite these inconsistencies, many reviewers, including IGN Spain and Wccftech, noted that the game’s core mechanics and polish were largely intact, suggesting that while not perfect, the technical issues were often minor or forgivable given the development context. The consensus leaned toward a positive but imperfect experience, with platform-specific limitations shaping the overall reception.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened offers scattered replayability through collectibles and customization, but its linear, shallow design and short runtime leave most critics unimpressed—replay value hinges on fan dedication, not depth.

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 reviewers generally acknowledge some positive aspects of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened’s replay value, particularly its optional content and collectibles. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming highlight the presence of side cases and clue-finding rewards that encourage players to revisit chapters for missed details, while Hey Poor Player emphasizes 100% completion through unlockables, outfits, and concept art. Adventure Gamers and Digital Chumps note that customization options and difficulty modes add layers to the experience, potentially motivating multiple playthroughs. Additionally, IGN Spain suggests that fans might revisit the game to explore other titles from the studio, and TouchArcade points to the availability of multiple versions and content for hardcore enthusiasts. These elements indicate that while not universally compelling, there are avenues for replayability for dedicated players. However, many critics express significant concerns about the game’s limited replay value due to its linear structure and lack of depth. CD-Action, Vandal, and Xbox Achievements argue that the game’s straightforward narrative and minimal side quests fail to incentivize returning after a single playthrough. GamingTrend and Worth Playing note that while side missions are engaging, they don’t add enough substance to justify multiple runs. Eurogamer Poland and Meristation criticize the short duration and unresolved plot points, which may leave players uninterested in revisiting. PC Gamer also mentions that paid DLC for side quests feels insufficient, and Ragequit.gr highlights a lack of multiple solutions or branching paths, further diminishing replay appeal. These critiques underscore a consensus that the game’s design prioritizes narrative over longevity. Overall, the critics present a mixed but largely cautious assessment of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened’s replay value. While some praise its optional content and collectibles as enough to warrant revisits for fans (e.g., Hey Poor Player, TouchArcade), others find it lacking due to its linear structure, short playtime, and minimal post-game incentives (Xbox Achievements, Eurogamer Poland). The game’s appeal seems to hinge on player interest in the franchise and willingness to engage with its narrative-driven mechanics. For casual players, the replay value is limited, but for dedicated fans or those intrigued by the mystery genre, there are enough elements—like hidden details or difficulty modes—to justify a second playthrough. However, the majority of reviewers agree that it falls short of offering substantial long-term engagement compared to other entries in the series.

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.

The overall reception of Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened highlights its strengths as a polished, narrative-driven detective experience with strong storytelling and atmospheric design. Many critics praised its engaging mysteries, sharp writing, and immersive world-building, particularly noting the blend of Sherlock Holmes’ classic detective work with Lovecraftian horror elements. For instance, Adventure Game Hotspot called it a “stellar remake and sequel” with “sharp storytelling,” while IGN Spain highlighted Frogwares’ growth in storytelling and passion for the series. The game’s voice acting and investigative mechanics also received acclaim, with WellPlayed praising its “excellent voice acting, solid writing, and enjoyable gameplay.” Additionally, Wccftech acknowledged it as a “commendable achievement” despite technical limitations, and Push Square described it as a “revelation” for fans. These positives underscore the game’s appeal to enthusiasts of the genre and its ability to deliver a satisfying detective experience. However, several critics pointed out significant flaws that detract from the overall experience. Technical issues, such as poor performance on certain platforms (e.g., Pure Nintendo’s criticism of the Switch version) and graphical shortcomings (Softpedia, IGN), were frequently mentioned. Gameplay mechanics also faced scrutiny, with Eurogamer Poland calling it a “disappointing regression” and GamingBolt citing frustrating controls and pacing issues. Many reviewers noted that the game feels like a step back from previous entries in the series, with CD-Action describing it as a “less polished remake” and Pure Xbox suggesting it’s only for “hardcore fans.” Additionally, some criticized its lack of innovation (Multiplayer.it, Meristation) and repetitive structure (Worth Playing), while others pointed to issues like loose lip-syncing (IGN) and unclear signposting (XboxEra). These criticisms highlight a gap between the game’s ambitions and its execution. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward appreciation for fans of the series, with many acknowledging its strengths despite notable flaws. While Adventure Gamers and Oyungezer argued that the remake “surpasses the original,” others like New Game Network and IGN found it underwhelming compared to earlier entries. The game’s appeal seems to be largely niche, targeting dedicated Sherlock Holmes fans who prioritize narrative depth over technical polish (BaziCenter, Vandal). However, its shortcomings—such as repetitive gameplay, technical issues, and a lack of innovation—prevent it from resonating with broader audiences. Ultimately, while Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is seen as a competent and enjoyable entry for enthusiasts, its mixed reception reflects the challenge of balancing nostalgia with modern expectations in a beloved franchise.

TL;DR

A divisive entry blending Holmes' detective work with Lovecraftian horror, praised for its immersive storytelling, voice acting, and atmospheric design but criticized for technical flaws, repetitive gameplay, and a lack of innovation—ultimately appealing mainly to hardcore fans despite mixed reception.

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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