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MONSTER

Slitterhead

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Slitterhead
Item: Slitterhead
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Horror, Single Player

AvailableNov 8, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

DeveloperBokeh Game Studio

Overview

Set in the densely cluttered streets of "Kowlong," filled with obscurity and chaos, this battle action-adventure game casts players as the "Hyoki," an entity devoid of memory and physical form. His only motive is to eradicate the monstrous beings known as "Slitterheads" crawling around the city, disguising themselves as humans. Roaming the vibrant neon-lit cityscape, players must seek out allies among humans known as "Rarities," infiltrate and track dangerous organizations, and engage in battles harnessing the power of blood. As the suspenseful drama unfolds, delve into the mystery behind Hyoki's existence and the appearance of the Slitterheads.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on the Story of Slitterhead. Some praise its original narrative, deep character development, and intriguing twists, while others criticize its disjointed storytelling and lack of coherence. The game's mix of action, horror, and time travel adds layers of intrigue, but issues like poorly translated dialogue and confusing plot elements hinder player engagement. Overall, Slitterhead's unique premise captivates some critics but leaves others feeling perplexed and disconnected, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

55%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Slitterhead are varied, with some praising its intriguing and original narrative elements. Critics like GamesRadar+ and IGN Spain appreciate the complex mythology and deep character development, exploring themes of empathy, ethical dilemmas, and unique storytelling twists. The narrative is commended for its unexpected turns, time-traveling mechanics, and exploration of coexistence between humans and monsters. Additionally, the game's mix of action, horror, and time travel, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas, adds layers of intrigue and compelling twists to the story. On the other hand, several critics point out significant drawbacks in the storytelling of Slitterhead. CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming express concerns about the narrative's disjointed and incoherent nature, with poorly translated dialogue and a lack of connection with characters hindering player engagement. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Worth Playing highlight the confusion and convoluted aspects of the plot, featuring multiple time travel elements, body swapping, and unreliable narrators, which can leave players feeling perplexed and disconnected from the story. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception of the Story of Slitterhead. While some reviewers appreciate the game's intriguing narrative elements, unexpected twists, and thematic exploration, others criticize its lack of coherence, confusing storytelling, and disconnect with the characters. The unique premise of the game, as noted by critics like Digital Trends and Push Square, is compelling, but issues such as lack of voice acting, repetitive gameplay, and outdated design elements, as mentioned by XboxEra, hinder the overall storytelling experience. Despite its flaws, Slitterhead manages to captivate some critics with its originality and thematic depth, while leaving others feeling perplexed and disconnected from the narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed feelings about Slitterhead's gameplay. Some praise its unique possession mechanic and strategic depth, engaging combat encounters, and inventive traversal techniques. However, others criticize its stiff combat, frustrating mechanics, and lack of cohesion. Overall, opinions vary, with some finding it refreshing and innovative, while others feel it falls short in delivering a satisfying gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

20%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

20%

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

The gameplay of Slitterhead has garnered mixed reviews from critics, with some highlighting its unique and innovative features. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected praise the possession mechanic, which allows players to use different characters' abilities strategically in combat and puzzles. This mechanic adds depth to the gameplay experience, with engaging one-on-one encounters and innovative traversal and stealth mechanics noted by COGconnected. Additionally, Hobby Consolas appreciates the time-travel mechanic, requiring exploration and puzzle-solving, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the gameplay. IGN Spain also commends the combat system, emphasizing the unique abilities and weapons of each character, making strategic decisions crucial in battles. On the other hand, several critics point out various shortcomings in Slitterhead's gameplay. ZTGD and GamingTrend criticize the stiff and chore-like combat, with ZTGD mentioning the lack of cohesion in the gameplay experience. Metro GameCentral and God is a Geek highlight the loose and floaty combat mechanics, leading to repetitive missions and disjointed gameplay experiences. GLHF on Sports Illustrated and GamingTrend express frustration with the clunky combat system, delayed parry timing, and tedious stealth and platforming sections, which impact the overall pace of the game. CGMagazine also mentions unresponsive and clunky combat mechanics, lacking weight and impact, further detracting from the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Slitterhead leans towards a divisive reception. While some critics appreciate the unique possession mechanic and strategic depth it adds to combat, others criticize the repetitive and clunky nature of the gameplay mechanics. Positive aspects such as the varied mission design, engaging combat encounters, and inventive possession mechanics are balanced by criticisms of stiff combat, frustrating mechanics, and inconsistent use of gameplay elements. Despite the mixed opinions, it is evident that Slitterhead's gameplay has sparked discussions among critics, with some finding it refreshing and innovative, while others feel it falls short in delivering a cohesive and satisfying gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Slitterhead for its unique monster designs and immersive world but criticize its outdated character models and repetitive environments. The game's dark atmosphere and detailed city landscapes are highlights, but issues with character animations and NPC detail detract from the overall visual experience. Mixed reviews suggest that while Slitterhead shines in some areas, it falls short in others, impacting the overall reception among critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

11%

Mixed (50-79)

72%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

The critics generally praise Slitterhead for its unique and grotesque monster designs, immersive worldbuilding, and atmospheric visuals. GamesRadar+ commends the detailed visuals depicting grotesque monsters and intense combat encounters, contributing to the immersive experience. IGN Spain highlights the dark, neon-lit atmosphere that immerses players in the game's world, setting a unique tone for the experience. TheSixthAxis also appreciates the fantastic presentation with a neon-drenched and grubby analogue for Hong Kong, showcasing the game's strong art direction and city environments. On the other hand, several critics point out various shortcomings in Slitterhead's graphics and visual design. Critics like GamingBolt and Hobby Consolas criticize the lack of detail in character animations and reactions, as well as the repetitive and underwhelming environments. GamingTrend and TechRadar Gaming mention the outdated character models reminiscent of older console generations, detracting from the overall visual appeal. Worth Playing and God is a Geek highlight issues with rough character animations, simple and ugly character models, and awkward movements, giving the game an air of PS2-era design. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Slitterhead's graphics and visual design is mixed. While the game receives praise for its unique monster designs, immersive atmosphere, and detailed city environments, it also faces criticism for its outdated character models, lack of detail in NPCs, and repetitive designs. Critics like Push Square appreciate the exceptional art direction and real-life locations used for storytelling, while others like ZTGD and VGC find the visual presentation lacking due to performance issues and distracting NPC character models. The varying opinions suggest that while Slitterhead excels in certain visual aspects, there are notable flaws that impact the overall experience for some critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics applaud Slitterhead's soundtrack by Akira Yamaoka for its haunting quality, urban rhythms, and immersive atmosphere, though some note drawbacks like sparse voice acting and nauseating sound effects. Overall, the general consensus is positive, with praise for the standout music and immersive soundscape despite some room for improvement in certain audio elements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Slitterhead have received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack composed by Akira Yamaoka, known for his work on Silent Hill, highlighting its haunting and immersive qualities. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Push Square specifically mentioned the masterpiece quality of the soundtrack, with TechRadar Gaming also commending the fantastic nature of Yamaoka's music. The inclusion of urban rhythms, distortions, and experimental sounds in the music, as noted by Hobby Consolas, added to the overall experience and atmosphere of the game. Additionally, the immersive soundscape, bustling city ambiance, and Cantonese chatter, as mentioned by GamingTrend, further contributed positively to the game's audio elements. On the other hand, some critics pointed out drawbacks in the Sound Design and Music of Slitterhead. Digital Trends highlighted the lack of voice acting impacting the emotional impact of key scenes, while Worth Playing criticized the strange and inconsistent voice acting, noting that most lines went unvoiced. XboxEra and Worth Playing also mentioned the sparse nature of voice acting in the game. ZTGD specifically mentioned that while the music was a highlight, the sound effects were described as nauseating, and the enemy designs were seen as disgusting. These criticisms indicate that there were shortcomings in the voice acting and sound effects department that affected the overall audio experience for some reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side when it comes to the Sound Design and Music of Slitterhead. The standout feature for many was Akira Yamaoka's exceptional soundtrack, which significantly enhanced the atmospheric horror experience of the game. The immersive sound design, gross monster sounds, and varied soundtrack were also highlighted as strong points by multiple critics. However, the criticisms regarding the lack of voice acting impact and inconsistent performances do suggest room for improvement in certain aspects of the audio elements. Despite the mixed feedback, the general sentiment is that the Sound Design and Music of Slitterhead largely succeeded in creating a chilling and immersive audio experience for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Slitterhead. While some praise rare moments of good performances and engaging vocalizations, many highlight the lack of consistent voice acting, poorly translated dialogue, and limited emotional impact. Overall, there is a consensus that the voice acting falls short of expectations, impacting immersion and storytelling. Improvement in this aspect is needed to enhance the overall gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

42%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Slitterhead are varied, with some positive aspects highlighted. Worth Playing notes that the rare voice acting present in some cut scenes is reasonably good, indicating that there are moments where the voice performances shine. Additionally, XboxEra mentions random vocalizations that add some level of engagement, albeit sparse. These instances suggest that there are pockets of quality voice acting within the game that manage to capture the attention of players. On the negative side, the overwhelming sentiment among the critics is the lack of voice acting or its inconsistent implementation. Critics like GamingTrend and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the absence of voice acting for the majority of the game, leading to immersion-breaking moments with stereotypical anime murmurs and grunts. CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral highlight issues such as poorly translated conversations, lack of connection with characters, and the impact on storytelling due to the absence of spoken dialogue. TheSixthAxis and Noisy Pixel also express disappointment in the limited voiceover in key story moments, affecting the emotional impact and overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Slitterhead falls short of expectations. The lack of consistent voice performances, poorly translated dialogue, and limited emotional impact due to sparse voiceovers are recurring themes in their assessments. Digital Trends and VGC point out the impact of the absence of voice acting on the emotional engagement and immersion in the game world. While there are sporadic positive mentions of decent voice acting moments, the general sentiment leans towards a need for improvement in this aspect to enhance the overall experience of playing Slitterhead.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Xbox Series X offers smooth gameplay with some minor issues, while Slitterhead on PS5 faces criticism for clunky gameplay, technical hiccups, and lackluster visuals. Mixed opinions highlight room for improvement on both platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

10%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

40%

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

In terms of technical performance on Xbox Series X, GamesRadar+ highlighted a smooth gameplay experience without significant issues, indicating a positive performance on this platform. However, XboxEra raised concerns about issues with character unlocking and repetitive missions, impacting the overall experience. ZTGD mentioned some performance issues like NPCs appearing out of nowhere but overall decent performance in performance mode. These mixed opinions suggest that while Xbox Series X offers a generally smooth experience, there are still some technical issues that can affect gameplay. On the other hand, the opinions on the technical performance of Slitterhead on PS5 were more critical. Critics like GamingBolt and TechRadar Gaming pointed out rough and clunky gameplay, visual and technical hiccups, repetitive missions, lack of clarity in objectives, and navigation challenges, all contributing to a less than optimal experience. Additionally, Hobby Consolas noted that the game falls short of modern standards in graphical detail, animations, and environment interactions, possibly due to the impact of the pandemic on development. Worth Playing described the game as janky, visually unappealing, with awkward animations and repetitive environments, highlighting the inconsistency in voice acting despite a good soundtrack. These negative aspects paint a challenging picture of the technical performance on the PS5 platform. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception towards Slitterhead's technical performance across both Xbox Series X and PS5. While some reviewers appreciated the smooth gameplay experience on Xbox Series X, others highlighted technical issues such as repetitive missions and performance hiccups. On the PS5 platform, the general sentiment leans towards a more critical view, with concerns raised about erratic gameplay flow, poor AI pathing, visual and technical hiccups, and overall lackluster graphical and animation quality. The varying opinions suggest that Slitterhead's technical performance may vary depending on the platform, with room for improvement to deliver a more consistent and polished gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Reviewers are divided on Slitterhead's replay value. Some like the gradual narrative and unique character abilities that enhance replayability, while others criticize its repetitive gameplay and lack of evolving mechanics. Ultimately, whether you'll replay the game depends on your tolerance for its drawbacks and individual preferences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

50%

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

In terms of positives, some reviewers highlighted elements that contribute to the replay value of Slitterhead. GamesRadar+ mentioned that the narrative unfolds gradually, offering opportunities for players to uncover secrets and explore different character interactions, which can enhance replayability. IGN Spain also noted the game's multiple perspectives in the story, additional objectives, and hidden collectibles, encouraging exploration and experimentation with different character abilities. Additionally, GamingBolt pointed out that playing as different characters with unique abilities adds variation to the gameplay experience. On the negative side, several critics pointed out aspects that hinder the replay value of Slitterhead. Digital Trends and XboxEra both criticized the game for its highly repetitive gameplay, lack of evolving mechanics, and frustrating progression mechanics, which can limit the desire to replay the game. Metro GameCentral highlighted the highly repetitive scenarios, short missions, and reused city locations as factors that reduce replay value. Push Square also mentioned the repetitive gameplay, padded levels, and limited room for experimentation or problem-solving as drawbacks that may deter players from replaying the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics suggests that Slitterhead has mixed opinions regarding its replay value. While some reviewers appreciated certain aspects like the narrative progression, character interactions, and hidden elements that can enhance replayability, others criticized the game for its repetitive gameplay, lack of variety, and frustrating mechanics that may diminish the desire to replay it. The varying perspectives from critics like TechRadar Gaming, who mentioned engaging gameplay but tedious true ending requirements, and Worth Playing, who found the game's concepts disjointed and dull, indicate that the overall replay value of Slitterhead may depend on individual preferences and tolerance for its gameplay shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

21%

Mixed (50-79)

71%

Negative (0-49)

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

The positives of Slitterhead highlighted by the critics include its daring vision, innovative gameplay, deep narrative, atmospheric design, unique combat system, time-travel mechanics, engaging gameplay mechanics, and compelling story. Critics like GamesRadar+ and COGconnected praise the game for its unique experience, engaging gameplay mechanics, and innovative design. IGN Spain also appreciates the game's unique personality, engaging story, and addictive gameplay. The possession mechanic is noted to have potential, as mentioned by Metro GameCentral, despite the overall execution falling short. On the negative side, critics point out several flaws in Slitterhead such as repetitive gameplay, outdated mechanics, clunky controls, monotonous cutscenes, lack of cohesion, feeling stuck in the past, clunkiness, lack of polish, lack of signposting, obtuse story, and frustrating mission unlock system. Some critics like XboxEra and GamingTrend highlight the game's shortcomings in terms of repetitive gameplay, outdated mechanics, and struggles to find its identity, resulting in a mediocre experience. Critics like CGMagazine and God is a Geek express disappointment in the game falling short of expectations, feeling unfinished, lacking in key areas, and having technical shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed regarding Slitterhead. While the game is praised for its bold and creative vision, innovative gameplay elements, and unique concepts, it is also criticized for its flawed execution, repetitive gameplay, clunky controls, and lack of polish. Critics like GamingBolt acknowledge the game's potential to amass a cult following over time for players willing to overlook its rough edges. However, the general sentiment leans towards the game falling short of expectations, lacking refinement, and struggling to fully realize its potential. Worth Playing's assessment of Slitterhead as a "bizarre and compelling mess of a game" with dated and bizarrely structured elements encapsulates the varied opinions of the critics, ultimately resulting in a game that offers a unique experience but fails to deliver a cohesive and fully satisfying gameplay experience.

TL;DR

Critics praise Slitterhead for its daring vision, innovative gameplay, and compelling story, but highlight flaws like repetitive gameplay, clunky controls, and lack of polish. While some see potential for a cult following, most agree it falls short of expectations and struggles to fully realize its unique concepts. Ultimately, it's a mixed bag of bold creativity and flawed execution.

MONSTER

Reviews

74 reviews found

GamesRadar+

Xbox Series X

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead is praised for its daring vision, innovative gameplay, deep narrative, and atmospheric design. Despite some pacing issues and a frustrating mission unlock system, the game is considered a force to be reckoned with in the action-horror genre.

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IGN Spain

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead is described as a game with a unique personality, engaging story, and addictive gameplay despite some pacing issues and lack of enemy variety. It is recommended for players looking for a creative and strange gaming experience.

TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead offers a unique and interesting horror experience with a compelling story, engaging gameplay, fantastic soundtrack, and immersive world-building, despite some technical and gameplay flaws

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead is praised for its unique combat system, time-travel mechanics, and charismatic elements, despite technical shortcomings and repetitive gameplay. It is considered a notable horror and action adventure, but falls short of its full potential.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead delivers a unique experience with a compelling story, engaging gameplay mechanics, and innovative design, despite some clunkiness and lack of polish.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead is a unique and risky game that offers a different and interesting gaming experience. Despite its flaws, it has the potential to amass a cult following over time. Players willing to overlook its rough edges may find a rich vein of gold in its core premise and gameplay mechanics.

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GLHF on Sports Illustrated

PlayStation 5

Nov 6, 2024

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

Slitterhead is a unique and bold game with some frustrations, recommended for players seeking innovative gameplay experiences.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Frustrating at times but fearlessly inventive. A must-play for fans of original survival horror experiences, despite its flaws in repetition and lack of refinement.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead is an ambitious horror game that delivers a strong story despite budgetary limitations.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Nov 4, 2024

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

Slitterhead offers a decent experience with a satisfying balance of empowerment and challenge, but is held back by its obtuse story, lack of signposting, and an adventure that may not fully resonate with all players.

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