Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes cover image

Links

Amazon

MONSTER

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes
Item: The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

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

AvailableOct 22, 2021

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperSupermassive Games

Overview

House of Ashes is the third game in the The Dark Pictures Anthology and a series of standalone, cinematic branching horror games where the decisions you make in the game determine the story and the outcome you receive. At the close of the Iraq War, Special Forces hunting for weapons of mass destruction unearth something far deadlier – a buried Sumerian temple containing a nest of unearthly creatures. To survive the night below, they must forge a brotherhood with their enemies from the world above.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

House of Ashes dazzles with ambitious war-horror storytelling, blending Sumerian myth and military tension to humanize conflicted characters, but falters through clichés, shallow themes, and a disjointed narrative that undercuts its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes receives praise for its thematic ambition and narrative structure. Critics like GameSpot highlight its unique blend of Iraq War settings with supernatural elements, noting that it humanizes characters from both sides of the conflict, particularly through the character of Salim. We Got This Covered and TheXboxHub commend the game’s engaging group dynamics and a third-act shift in pace that adds variety. Meristation appreciates its Sumerian mythology roots and the mix of military and horror elements, while PC Gamer praises personal rivalries and a love triangle that enrich the story’s emotional stakes. Additionally, Cultured Vultures acknowledges intriguing mythos and character development in the final act, suggesting that the narrative improves significantly toward its conclusion despite earlier flaws. However, several critics criticize the game for its lack of originality and inconsistent execution. Slant Magazine argues that the story superficially handles serious themes like war trauma, with characters lacking depth and coherence. GameMAG and VideoGamer point to clichéd storytelling and predictable choices, while Power Unlimited and PC Games note a disjointed mix of themes that leaves the narrative feeling overloaded or aimless. Gaming Nexus and SpazioGames highlight unresolved plot threads and underutilized historical context, with Destructoid criticizing the initial character disconnect and Carole Quintaine calling the narrative “uninspired.” Many also fault the game for relying on horror tropes rather than deeper exploration, as seen in GamePro Germany’s critique of its “disjointed” plot and Jeuxvideo.com’s observation that the writing lacks impact. These criticisms often center on a failure to fully capitalize on the game’s ambitious premise. The overall consensus reflects a mixed reception, with some critics praising it as a strong entry in the series while others find it underwhelming. ZTGD and Wccftech laud it as the best story in the Dark Pictures anthology, citing unexpected twists and character growth, while GameInformers and Multiplayer.it acknowledge its improved maturity over previous titles. However, the majority of reviews highlight significant flaws, such as predictability, shallow themes, and uneven pacing. Despite this, several critics, including TheGamer and TierraGamer, appreciate its coherent narrative and meaningful choices, suggesting that while not flawless, House of Ashes offers a more satisfying experience than earlier entries in the series. The divide underscores a tension between the game’s potential and its execution, leaving it as a polarizing but occasionally compelling entry in the anthology.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Praises for narrative depth, branching choices, and 360° camera control clash with frustrations over repetitive QTEs, clunky controls, and disengaging gameplay, creating a polarizing mix of story-driven ambition and outdated mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes receives praise for its narrative-driven approach and improvements in mechanics that enhance player engagement. Critics like Game Informer highlight the addition of 360-degree camera control and accessibility options, which allow players to explore environments at their own pace, while GameSkinny notes smoother movement and meaningful "inaction" choices that add depth. The branching storylines and multiple endings are frequently lauded, with Meristation emphasizing the encouragement of repeat playthroughs to uncover different outcomes. Additionally, GamesBeat praises the butterfly effect mechanic, which adds stakes to player decisions, and IGN Portugal acknowledges the impact of choices on character fates, reinforcing the series’ signature tension. These elements suggest a game that prioritizes storytelling and player agency, even if it leans heavily on familiar mechanics. However, several critics criticize the gameplay for its reliance on quick-time events (QTEs) and passive interactivity, which they argue diminishes immersion. VG247 and LevelUp describe the experience as "least interactive" and "unbalanced," with long cinematic sequences interrupted by brief, often arbitrary interactions. Slant Magazine and Impulsegamer highlight the monotonous nature of QTEs and clunky controls, while Twinfinite and Shacknews point to frustrating camera angles and slow character movement that hinder exploration. Hooked Gamers and VideoGamer also note that decisions often lack immediate consequences, making the gameplay feel disconnected from its narrative. These critiques underscore a recurring issue: the game’s mechanics, while functional, fail to innovate or fully integrate with its horror-driven atmosphere, leading to a sense of repetition and disengagement. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, reflecting both appreciation for the game’s narrative ambition and frustration with its gameplay limitations. While GameSkinny, Meristation, and IGN Portugal celebrate improvements in camera control, branching narratives, and decision-making depth, others like VG247, Slant Magazine, and KeenGamer find the formulaic QTEs and lack of exploration unappealing. The game’s reliance on familiar mechanics from previous Dark Pictures entries, as noted by MGG Spain and TheSixthAxis, creates a polarizing experience—some see it as a refined iteration of the series’ strengths, while others view it as stagnant. Ultimately, House of Ashes is seen as a game that prioritizes story over innovation, offering a compelling but occasionally frustrating experience for players seeking deeper interactivity.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

House of Ashes dazzles with photorealistic next-gen visuals, atmospheric horror, and immersive ancient settings, but stiff animations, uncanny characters, and technical glitches tarnish its potential, leaving a mixed reception that balances innovation with lingering flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes receives praise for its visual upgrades and atmospheric design, particularly on next-gen consoles. Critics like GameOver.gr highlight "beautiful, photorealistic graphics" and well-designed environments, while IGN Portugal commends the claustrophobic settings that enhance horror tension. Xbox Tavern describes the visuals as "jaw-dropping," emphasizing ultra-realistic character details and immersive environments. TheGamer and GamesBeat note impressive cinematic moments, with GameCritics praising the third-person viewpoint and expansive maps that showcase environmental scale. Digitally Downloaded and App Trigger highlight the game’s striking ancient Sumerian tomb setting, while XGN and VG247 acknowledge improved character designs and lighting effects. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia, praise the photorealistic staging and strong emphasis on lighting to create atmosphere. However, several critics point to inconsistencies and technical flaws. PC Games criticizes "inconsistent visuals" with subpar character animations and weak environmental effects like water and explosions. Cultured Vultures and Push Square highlight rubbery character models, poor lip-syncing, and laughable monster designs, while Slant Magazine and Hardcore Gamer note over-designed non-human enemies that fail to evoke fear. LevelUp and SpazioGames mention waxy character models and low-resolution textures, and Jeuxvideo.com and Eurogamer Italy point to unnatural facial animations falling into the "uncanny valley." GamingTrend and GameSkinny note technical quirks like glitchy animations and texture issues, while TheXboxHub and MGG acknowledge improvements but stress lingering problems with facial expressions and lighting. Destructoid and VG247 also mention minor technical flaws that detract from immersion. Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed reception, with critics agreeing that House of Ashes represents a visual step forward for the series, especially on next-gen platforms, but acknowledging persistent issues. While GameInformers and IGN Spain praise the game’s "impressive graphical presentation" and cinematic quality, they also note its failure to create a truly unsettling atmosphere. PC Invasion and WellPlayed highlight technical improvements like raytracing and 4K support, yet many, including TheGamer and Malditos Nerds, stress that animation flaws and inconsistent textures undermine the experience. Despite these criticisms, the game’s environments and set pieces—such as the ancient temple and Sumerian tomb—are widely celebrated, suggesting that while technical and animation challenges remain, the visual design successfully enhances the horror narrative for many players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Sound design and music received praise for immersive horror atmosphere, tense suspense, and Jason Graves' intense score, but technical glitches, audio inconsistencies, poor voice acting in non-English versions, and synchronization issues weakened impact—despite flaws, most deemed it a standout element.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes received largely positive feedback from critics, with many praising its ability to enhance the game’s atmosphere and tension. Reviewers like COGconnected highlighted the use of low clicking sounds and suspenseful music to create an immersive horror experience, while GameOver.gr and XGN noted that the soundtrack effectively complements the game’s mood. IGN Italia lauded the "flawless" audio master in the original language, emphasizing its contribution to immersion, and Press Start Australia praised composer Jason Graves’ "intense score" for crafting a thrilling soundscape. KeenGamer appreciated the realistic underground echoes and impactful sound effects, while Adventure Gamers and PC Gamer commended ambient sounds and bone-chilling noises that amplify horror elements. The music was frequently described as cinematic and fitting, with RPG Fan noting its "appropriately cinematic" quality and TheXboxHub highlighting the immersive, location-specific shifts in the soundtrack. However, several critics pointed out technical flaws and inconsistencies that detracted from the audio experience. SpazioGames criticized the sound design as "underwhelming," arguing it missed opportunities to heighten tension through environmental sounds, while Cultured Vultures mentioned glitches like "audio tears" in the final act. Issues with language synchronization were recurring, as noted by GamePro Germany, Jeuxvideo.com, and PC Games, which highlighted problems with dialogue clarity in non-English versions. Everyeye.it and Multiplayer.it pointed to inferior Italian voice acting compared to English, while Gamer.nl cited a persistent buzzing sound. Additionally, Xbox Tavern recommended using headphones for immersion, implying that the audio design could benefit from more refined spatial effects. Some critics, like Xbox Achievements, found the music "forgettable," and Meristation noted issues with dialogue synchronization despite the soundtrack’s variety. Overall, while there was a strong consensus that the sound design effectively builds tension and enhances the horror atmosphere, technical issues and regional inconsistencies tempered its impact. Most reviewers agreed that the audio elements, particularly the score by Jason Graves, contributed meaningfully to the game’s immersive quality, as noted by Press Start Australia and TheXboxHub. However, bugs like language mix-ups (GamePro Germany, Jeuxvideo.com), poor mixing (SpazioGames, Gamer.nl), and uneven voice acting (Everyeye.it, PC Games) were significant drawbacks. Despite these flaws, the majority of critics viewed the sound design as a standout aspect of the game, with its strengths in creating suspense and atmosphere outweighing its technical shortcomings for many players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Voice acting in House of Ashes shines in the original English, with praised performances like Ashley Tisdale’s emotional depth and strong character immersion, but localized dubs (notably Italian and German) falter, while some actors deliver flat or inconsistent lines, creating a mixed but largely positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes receives a generally positive reception, with many critics praising its ability to enhance character immersion and narrative depth. Several reviewers highlight strong performances from the cast, noting that characters are well-crafted and their dialogues feel believable. For instance, IGN Portugal emphasizes that the main characters’ performances add emotional weight to the story, while PC Gamer commends the voice acting for effectively establishing characters’ personalities and relationships. Standout moments include Ashley Tisdale’s portrayal of Rachel, which is frequently cited as compelling and emotionally resonant by outlets like We Got This Covered and KeenGamer. Additionally, GameSpew praises the facial animations and character acting as "on point," contributing to a sense of connection with the ensemble. The original English voice work is often lauded as a strong suit, with VG247 and Xbox Tavern describing it as "excellent" and "convincing," respectively. However, several critics point to notable flaws in the voice acting, particularly in specific performances and localized versions. GameMAG and Games.cz criticize Ashley Tisdale’s performance as flat and lacking depth, while MGG notes inconsistencies in language delivery and missing dialogue that disrupt immersion. The Italian dub, reviewed by Everyeye.it, is singled out for being "significantly below the quality of the English version," and PC Games mentions the German version as "functional but lacking quality." Other issues include GamePro Germany’s observation of clichéd characters and disconnected performances, and The Games Machine’s critique of "dialoghi poco convincenti" (unconvincing dialogue). Additionally, GAMINGbible and Press Start Australia highlight that some actors fail to fully engage, with the latter specifically noting Tisdale’s "flat" performance. These criticisms suggest uneven execution across different roles and language versions. Overall, while there are valid concerns about specific performances and localized dubs, the majority of critics view the voice acting as a solid or even strong aspect of the game. The English version is consistently praised for its quality, with Game Informer and IGN Italia noting that it "adds emotional weight" to the narrative. However, the mixed reception underscores that not all performances meet the same standard—some characters, like Paul Zinno’s (via New Game Network) or Pip Torrens’ (via PC Invasion), shine, while others, such as Ashley Tisdale’s in certain reviews, fall short. Despite these inconsistencies, the consensus leans toward appreciation for the voice acting’s contribution to immersion and character development, with many reviewers recommending the English version for a more cohesive experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Next-gen consoles shine with smoother performance but flawed polish, while PS4 and PC struggle with persistent bugs, texture pop-ins, and glitches—despite improvements over prior entries, technical inconsistency lingers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The technical performance of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes varies across platforms, with notable positives for next-gen consoles and mixed results on older systems. On PS5, critics like Destructoid praised its smooth performance, near-instant load times, and stable frame rates, while IGN Italia highlighted improvements in stability, visual fidelity, and ray tracing. Similarly, Xbox Series X reviewers such as TheXboxHub noted faster loading times and stability improvements, with some acknowledging minor scene transitions issues but overall refinement. For PC, GameCritics and Meristation reported smooth performance with minimal technical hiccups, though camera control issues were mentioned. PS4 saw mixed feedback, with some critics like IGN Portugal noting that while the game runs well on next-gen systems, older hardware still faces bugs, yet others like Hobby Consolas praised improved lighting and texture quality. However, technical shortcomings plagued multiple platforms. On PS5, New Game Network criticized awkward animations and a lack of polish, while Carole Quintaine and MGG Spain highlighted rigid movements and frame rate drops. PC faced issues like freezing during co-op (PC Games), camera problems (TheGamer), and crashes (Dexerto). Xbox Series X reviewers such as ZTGD reported server disconnects and glitches, though SomosXbox noted minor scene transition issues that didn’t detract from enjoyment. PS4 critics like Gameblog.fr and Cultured Vultures pointed to unvoiced lines, texture pop-ins, and screen tears, while others like Meristation acknowledged minor stutters during transitions. Even on next-gen systems, some reviewers (e.g., XGN) noted missed DualSense features and inconsistent camera control, indicating that technical polish remains uneven across platforms. Overall, the consensus leans toward next-gen consoles offering a more refined experience despite lingering issues, while older hardware and PC versions face more frequent bugs. Critics like Destructoid and GamingTrend emphasized significant improvements over previous entries in the series, particularly on PS5, but acknowledged that technical polish is still a work in progress. For PS4, the game’s performance was often described as “decent but not outstanding” (Metro GameCentral), with some critics suggesting patches could resolve many issues. On PC, while some reviewers praised stability (e.g., Merlin'in Kazanı), others highlighted persistent bugs that detracted from immersion. The mixed reception underscores a game that, while technically improved compared to its predecessors, still struggles with consistency across platforms, leaving room for future refinements.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

House of Ashes offers branching narratives and multiplayer replayability for fans of choice-driven stories, but its shallow decisions and repetitive mechanics leave many unimpressed, creating a polarizing experience where rewards depend on player patience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The critical reception of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes highlights several positive aspects that contribute to its replay value. Multiple reviewers emphasize the game’s branching narratives and multiple endings, which encourage players to explore different choices and outcomes. For instance, SpazioGames and Jeuxvideo.com praise the game’s high replayability, particularly when played with friends, as player decisions lead to varied story paths. Similarly, GamingBolt and Adventure Gamers highlight layered narratives and character growth, while MGG and Dexerto note the inclusion of multiplayer modes and the Curator’s Cut DLC, which add new perspectives and sequences. The game’s ability to offer distinct experiences through character relationships, difficulty settings, and cooperative play is frequently cited as a strength, with GameCritics and Hey Poor Player emphasizing its appeal for players seeking diverse outcomes. These elements collectively create a foundation for replayability, especially for fans of choice-driven storytelling. However, several critics express reservations about the game’s replay value due to perceived limitations in decision-making impact. VideoGamer and GAMINGbible argue that many choices lack significant consequences, reducing the incentive to revisit the story. Hooked Gamers and Slant Magazine echo this sentiment, noting that most decisions feel inconsequential or disconnected from broader plot outcomes. IGN Italia criticizes long, non-skippable sequences as tedious for repeat playthroughs, while GameSpot and Xbox Achievements point to an opaque decision system and a lack of twists that may deter players. Additionally, VG247 and New Game Network acknowledge some replay value but suggest it falls short of earlier entries in the series. These critiques underscore a recurring concern: while the game offers branching paths, their meaningfulness is often questioned, limiting the satisfaction of multiple playthroughs. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, reflecting a divide between those who appreciate the game’s narrative flexibility and those who find its replayability underwhelming. While SpazioGames, GamingBolt, and MGG celebrate the game’s branching structures and multiplayer appeal, others like VideoGamer and Hooked Gamers remain unimpressed by the lack of impactful choices. The Curator’s Cut mode and cooperative play are frequently highlighted as redeeming qualities that enhance replayability for some, but not all. Ultimately, the game seems to cater more to fans of the series who value exploration of story paths, while its broader appeal is tempered by criticisms of shallow consequences and repetitive mechanics. As IGN and Gameblog.fr note, the game’s replay value hinges on players’ willingness to engage with its decision-making systems, making it a polarizing experience in terms of long-term enjoyment.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall reception of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes highlights several positive aspects that many critics praised. Multiple reviewers highlighted its improved storytelling, character development, and atmospheric tension compared to previous entries in the series. For instance, IGN Portugal called it the best entry in the anthology, praising its compelling narrative and strong message about resilience, while TheGamer noted its fresh take on the genre with a grounded plot and action-oriented structure. GamesRadar+ and WellPlayed emphasized its accessibility for co-op play and engaging gameplay, respectively, with the latter calling it the best entry so far. Additionally, Press Start Australia and PlayStation Universe lauded its strong character performances, visuals, and immersive storytelling, suggesting that House of Ashes represents a significant step forward in the series’ evolution. The game’s focus on group dynamics and interactive choices also resonated with critics like CGMagazine, who compared it to a "rated R Choose Your Own Adventure" experience. However, several critics pointed out notable flaws that detracted from the overall experience. Technical issues, such as glitches and performance problems, were frequently mentioned, with PC Games and BaziCenter noting mixed execution of horror elements and technical shortcomings. The narrative was also criticized for being underwhelming or predictable; Slant Magazine called it a "missed opportunity" due to its lackluster story and tedious gameplay, while GameMAG deemed it the weakest entry in the anthology. IGN Italia and Vandal highlighted the game’s reliance on passive storytelling and uneven pacing, with RPG Fan noting it felt less engaging than its predecessor. Additionally, some critics, like MGG Spain and Player 2, found the lack of mystery and depth disappointing, suggesting that House of Ashes struggled to maintain the tension and innovation seen in earlier titles. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers leans toward a balanced but generally positive assessment. While not without flaws, many critics acknowledged House of Ashes as a meaningful improvement for the series, with IGN Portugal, Press Start Australia, and WellPlayed hailing it as the best entry to date. The game’s strengths in narrative cohesion, character interactions, and atmospheric horror were frequently cited, even if some felt it fell short of expectations. Conversely, critics like Slant Magazine and GameMAG remained more critical, emphasizing its shortcomings. Ultimately, House of Ashes appears to have struck a chord with fans of the anthology, offering a compelling blend of action, storytelling, and interactivity that, while not perfect, marks a promising direction for future installments. The mixed reactions reflect both the game’s growth and lingering challenges, but the majority of reviewers agree it is a worthwhile experience for horror enthusiasts.

TL;DR

Praised for bold narrative risks, immersive co-op chaos, and eerie atmosphere, House of Ashes dazzles with character depth and interactive choices—but glitches, uneven pacing, and a timid story undermine its potential, leaving mixed reviews that still hail it as the anthology’s strongest outing.

MONSTER

Reviews

161 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Oct 28, 2021

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

Overall, House of Ashes is praised for its story, production quality, and immersive experience, marking it as a standout entry in the series.

Read full review

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2021

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

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes is praised as a fantastic feat in the adventure narrative genre, with a focus on character drama and a group of flesh-eating demons. The game offers a nightmare-filled experience that can be enjoyed alone or with friends.

Read full review

GameCritics

Oct 25, 2021

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

House of Ashes is praised as Supermassive Games' best entry yet, combining strong storytelling, character development, and engaging gameplay, marking a successful evolution of the series.

Read full review

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2021

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

House of Ashes is praised as the best entry in the anthology, with believable characters, solid performances, and improved visuals and interactivity.

Read full review

App Trigger

PlayStation 5

Oct 22, 2021

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

The reviewer recommends trying the game and considers it the best release in the Dark Pictures Anthology to date.

Read full review

PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2021

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

Overall, House of Ashes is praised as an impressive addition to the series, combining stunning visuals with engaging gameplay and a compelling story.

Read full review

Wccftech

Oct 21, 2021

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

House of Ashes is the best title in The Dark Pictures Anthology series, with clear improvements in gameplay, story, and atmosphere.

Read full review

GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2021

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

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes might not be very frightening, but it absolutely nails a tense atmosphere where every choice really does matter. With gorgeous visuals and a satisfying, well-paced story, Supermassive has finally found their footing.

Dexerto

Oct 28, 2021

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

Despite its technical flaws, House of Ashes stands out as the best entry in the series so far, offering a thrilling narrative and engaging gameplay.

Read full review

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2021

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

House of Ashes represents a fresh direction for The Dark Pictures Anthology, with a tense, action-packed narrative that diverges from previous titles. While it may not satisfy all horror fans, it successfully revitalizes the series.

Read full review