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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

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

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.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes is a polarizing blend of historical horror set during the Iraq War. Critics praise its ambitious narrative and character dynamics, highlighting player choice and moral complexity. However, many also slam it for clichéd storytelling, flat characters, and superficial handling of serious themes, resulting in a disjointed plot. The game's attempt to merge deep themes with engaging horror leaves a mixed impression—intriguing yet ultimately flawed.

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 narrative of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes has garnered both praise and criticism from various reviewers, highlighting its ambitious attempt to intertwine historical and supernatural elements. Critics such as GameSpot and LevelUp commend the game for its unique setting during the Iraq War, which adds a layer of depth to the story, particularly through character dynamics and moral dilemmas. The game is noted for its engaging narrative structure, with some reviews from Wccftech and PlayStation Universe emphasizing the impact of player choices on character development and outcomes. Additionally, the incorporation of themes such as cooperation amidst conflict and the human cost of war has resonated with several reviewers, including GameMAG and Worth Playing, who appreciate the moral complexity presented in the storyline. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, with many critics pointing out significant flaws in the execution of its narrative. Reviewers from Slant Magazine and Power Unlimited criticize the story for its reliance on clichés and predictable tropes, leading to a lack of tension and depth. Many opinions highlight that the characters feel flat and uninteresting, which detracts from the player's emotional investment in their survival, as noted by RPG Fan and Games.cz. Furthermore, some critics, like Digitally Downloaded and GamePro Germany, express disappointment in the superficial treatment of serious themes and the disjointed nature of the plot, suggesting that the narrative fails to fully utilize its intriguing premise. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, reflecting a divide between those who appreciate the game's ambitious storytelling and those who feel it falls short of its potential. While some reviewers, such as Gameblog.fr and Shacknews, recognize the engaging aspects and character development, others, like IGN Italia and Destructoid, point out the narrative's inconsistencies and missed opportunities. The game's attempt to blend horror with historical context has garnered attention, yet the execution has left many feeling underwhelmed. Ultimately, House of Ashes presents a narrative that is both intriguing and flawed, showcasing the challenges of balancing complex themes with engaging storytelling in a video game format.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes delivers a gripping, narrative-driven experience with impactful decision-making and character dynamics, praised for its multiple endings and character control. However, it falters with passive gameplay, excessive cutscenes, and clunky controls, leaving some critics feeling it's more of an interactive movie than a true game. While fans of storytelling may enjoy it, the lack of interactivity and innovation may disappoint traditional gamers seeking a deeper experience. It’s a mixed bag that balances engaging narratives with frustrating 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 has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding its narrative-driven mechanics and character interactions. Many reviewers, such as PC Gamer and PlayStation LifeStyle, praised the game's focus on decision-making that significantly impacts character fates, with multiple endings and over 60 unique deaths based on player choices. The introduction of a 360-degree camera and the ability to control multiple characters were also highlighted as notable improvements, enhancing exploration and engagement within the game. Critics like Wccftech and Eurogamer Italy appreciated the enhancements in camera control and the introduction of difficulty settings for quick-time events (QTEs), which contribute to a more tailored gameplay experience. However, the gameplay has faced considerable criticism for its lack of interactivity and cumbersome mechanics. Reviewers such as My critic from LevelUp and VG247 noted that the game felt overly passive, with long cinematic sequences that detracted from player engagement. The reliance on QTEs and minimal combat has led some, like IGN Italia and Gameblog.fr, to describe the gameplay as feeling more like an interactive movie than a traditional game. Additionally, issues with character movement and controls were pointed out by critics like PC Games and GameSkinny, who expressed frustration with the clunky controls, particularly in tight spaces or during online co-op modes. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while House of Ashes retains the engaging narrative and decision-making elements that fans have come to expect, it suffers from significant drawbacks in gameplay interactivity and control mechanics. Many reviewers, including those from IGN and GamesRadar+, echoed sentiments that the gameplay feels familiar yet lacks innovation compared to previous entries in the anthology. Critics agree that the balance between cinematic storytelling and player agency is skewed, leading to a less immersive experience, particularly for those seeking a more traditional gaming experience. The game ultimately presents a mixed bag, appealing to fans of narrative-driven experiences while leaving others desiring more depth and interactivity.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes dazzles with stunning environments and impressive visual tech, earning praise for its photorealism and character models—especially on next-gen consoles. However, it suffers from inconsistent character animations, glitchy performances, and laughable creature designs that undermine immersion. The game showcases significant advancements but ultimately leaves a mixed impression due to its uneven quality.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes reveals a mix of admiration for certain aspects and criticism for others. Many critics praised the game for its impressive environments and lighting effects, particularly in underground settings. For instance, Press Start Australia noted the well-designed locales and detailed character animations, while IGN Italia highlighted the photorealism and excellent staging that enhance the atmosphere. Critics like KeenGamer and Gaming Nexus also commended the stunning character models and the overall visual fidelity, particularly on next-gen consoles. The use of advanced technology such as ray tracing and 4K resolution has been recognized as a significant upgrade, contributing to a more immersive experience. Conversely, numerous reviewers pointed out several shortcomings that detract from the visual experience. Critics such as PC Games and New Game Network emphasized the inconsistency in character animations, with some animations appearing subpar or even glitchy. Cultured Vultures echoed this sentiment, describing character models as rubbery with poor lip-syncing, which detracts from immersion. Additionally, Push Square criticized certain creature designs as laughable, while Dexerto noted that while enemy designs were stunning, character models suffered from notable graphical issues. This inconsistency in quality across different elements of the game has led to a mixed reception. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while House of Ashes showcases impressive advancements in visual fidelity and environmental design, it is marred by inconsistencies in character animations and some dated visual elements. Reviewers like Carole Quintaine and MondoXbox recognized the beauty and photorealism of the graphics but also acknowledged the flaws that prevent it from achieving a fully polished look. The game is seen as a step forward for the series, but the uneven quality in certain areas leaves room for improvement. As such, while there are standout moments and impressive features, the overall graphical experience remains a blend of highs and lows.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes boasts strong sound design and an effective score that heightens its horror atmosphere, earning praise for suspenseful audio and voice acting—though Ashley Tisdale’s performance fell flat. However, technical issues like audio bugs, missing dialogue, and poor mixing mar the experience, with some critics noting that the Italian voice acting lags behind the English version. Overall, while the game's sound design is impressive, persistent glitches keep it from reaching its full potential.

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 have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance its horror atmosphere. Reviewers from COGconnected and GamePro Germany praised the sound design for its ability to create suspense and tension, with COGconnected noting the effectiveness of low clicking sounds and suspenseful music. The voice acting has been recognized as a strong point, with IGN Italia and Press Start Australia mentioning the quality of performances, although some reviews highlighted specific actors, such as Ashley Tisdale, whose performance was described as somewhat flat. Additionally, the soundtrack by Jason Graves has been well-received, with critics like RPG Fan and Meristation noting its cinematic quality and ability to complement the game's atmosphere. However, several criticisms emerged regarding the sound design, particularly concerning technical issues and inconsistencies. Multiple reviewers, including GameOver.gr and Cultured Vultures, pointed out bugs that affected audio quality, such as missing dialogue lines and synchronization problems, which detracted from the overall experience. Critics like Everyeye.it and PlaySense noted that while the sound design was generally good, the Italian voice acting was inferior to the English version, impacting immersion. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer, highlighted issues with audio mixing and glitches that interrupted the gameplay experience, suggesting that the sound design did not always meet the high standards set by the game's atmosphere. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while House of Ashes features strong sound design and a fitting score that enhances its horror elements, it is marred by technical issues that prevent it from achieving its full potential. Many reviewers, including those from PC Gamer and Shacknews, acknowledged the effectiveness of the sound in creating tension and atmosphere, but the recurring mention of audio bugs and inconsistencies suggests that these flaws hindered the overall experience. Thus, while the game succeeds in many areas of sound design, the persistent technical shortcomings prevent it from being universally acclaimed.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in House of Ashes is a mixed bag. While critics praised Ashley Tisdale and others for enhancing character immersion and emotional depth, many also pointed out significant flaws like flat performances, poor dialect accuracy, and inconsistent dialogue quality. The result is an uneven experience that both enriches and detracts from the game's narrative.

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 has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly highlighting the performances of Ashley Tisdale and other cast members. Many reviewers, such as Xbox Tavern and Gaming Nexus, praised the overall quality of the voice acting, noting that it effectively contributes to character immersion and emotional depth. Critics like PlaySense and Game Informer emphasized that the performances enhance the storytelling experience, with characters being well-cast and convincingly portrayed. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from PC Invasion and We Got This Covered, noted that the voice acting helps create empathy for the characters, further enriching the narrative. However, the voice acting has also faced significant criticism, with many reviewers pointing out various shortcomings. GameMAG and Games.cz specifically mentioned that Tisdale's performance felt flat and lacking depth, while RPG Fan noted a mixed reception, suggesting that while some performances were strong, the overall cast felt uninteresting. Other critics, such as TrueGaming and Xbox Achievements, highlighted issues with dialect accuracy and wooden acting, which detracted from the immersive experience. Furthermore, inconsistencies in dialogue quality were pointed out by several reviewers, including TheGamer and Impulsegamer, indicating that some lines felt awkward or poorly executed, impacting the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in House of Ashes is mixed. While there are commendable performances that enhance character development and emotional engagement, particularly from Ashley Tisdale and others, many reviewers noted significant flaws that hinder the experience. Critics like New Game Network and LevelUp emphasized that while some performances stand out, others fall flat, leading to an uneven experience. This dichotomy suggests that while the game has the potential for strong voice acting, technical issues and inconsistent performances may prevent it from reaching its full potential, leaving players with a varied impression of the overall quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes shines on PS5 and Xbox Series X with smooth performance and fast load times, but suffers from significant technical issues on PS4, including bugs and frame rate problems. Critics find the PC version polished but not immune to glitches. Overall, the game shows promise on newer consoles but feels rushed and underdeveloped, highlighting a pressing need for further refinements and patches.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes across various gaming platforms, it is evident that the PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC versions have their strengths. Many PS5 critics, including Destructoid and PlayStation Universe, praised the game for running smoothly with near-instant load times and stable frame rates, marking a significant improvement over previous titles in the series. Similarly, Xbox Series X reviews from Generación Xbox and MondoXbox noted good technical performance, with improvements in loading times and overall stability. On PC, critics like Adventure Gamers and GameCritics reported a polished experience with minimal issues, indicating that the game runs well on capable hardware. However, the negative aspects of the game's technical performance cannot be overlooked. On PS4, reviewers from Hardcore Gamer and Cultured Vultures highlighted numerous bugs, including texture pop-ins and frozen movement, which significantly detracted from the experience. Critics like New Game Network and GameOver.gr pointed out that the PS5 version suffers from awkward animations and frame rate problems, particularly in quality mode, which undermines immersion. For the Xbox Series X, while the performance is generally solid, some critics such as Jeuxvideo.com noted that it still suffers from bugs. On PC, issues like camera control problems and occasional crashes were reported by Gaming Nexus and Launcher, indicating that the game has not fully optimized its performance across all platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards disappointment regarding technical performance, particularly on older consoles. While next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X show significant improvements and generally run well, many critics still reported various bugs and glitches that affect gameplay. The PS4 version appears to be the most problematic, with multiple reviews citing severe technical issues that detract from the experience. Critics such as GameMAG and IGN Portugal emphasize that while the game has potential, its technical performance feels rushed and underdeveloped, likely due to pandemic constraints. As a result, while there are positives to be found, particularly on newer platforms, the overall sentiment reflects a need for further refinement and patching to enhance the gaming experience across all systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes boasts impressive replayability with branching narratives and multiple endings, praised by critics for encouraging exploration and multiplayer experiences. However, skepticism looms due to its short playtime, incoherent outcomes, and tedious non-skippable sequences, leading some reviewers to doubt whether it truly warrants multiple playthroughs. In essence, while the game offers intriguing elements, its lack of impactful choices may discourage players from diving back in.

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 opinions regarding the replay value of The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes reveal a notable appreciation for its branching narratives and character choices. Critics such as DualShockers and God is a Geek highlight the game's potential for multiple endings and character outcomes, emphasizing that these features encourage players to explore different paths in subsequent playthroughs. The inclusion of multiplayer modes, as mentioned by IGN and New Game Network, further enhances replayability, allowing friends to experience the story together and discover varied outcomes. Additionally, the Curator's Cut mode, which offers new scenes and perspectives, is praised by reviewers like MGG and Shacknews, suggesting that it adds depth and variety to the gameplay experience. However, despite these positive aspects, many critics express concerns about the game's overall replay value. VideoGamer and Carole Quintaine note a lack of interest in replaying the game, pointing to its relatively short playtime and suggesting that it may not be compelling enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. Slant Magazine and Hooked Gamers criticize the incoherent outcomes of player choices, arguing that the lack of meaningful differences in plot outcomes diminishes the incentive to replay. Additionally, IGN Italia raises the issue of long, non-skippable sequences that make repeating the game tedious, which could frustrate players looking for a more streamlined experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While many reviewers acknowledge the game's potential for replayability through its branching narratives and multiplayer options, a significant number express skepticism about the depth and impact of player choices. Critics like Gaming Nexus and XGN emphasize that the game does encourage multiple playthroughs, yet others, such as Xbox Achievements and GameMAG, suggest that the lack of substantial twists and turns may deter players from replaying. Ultimately, House of Ashes offers a blend of replayable elements and shortcomings, leaving players to weigh their interest in exploring its narrative complexities against the potential for a repetitive experience.

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 reviews for The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes highlight several positive aspects that resonate across multiple critics. Many reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and IGN, laud the game for its strong narrative and character development, with Press Start Australia specifically calling it the best installment in the series thus far. The production quality also receives praise, with LevelUp noting its high production values and PC Gamer emphasizing the balance of action and narrative depth. Critics like Wccftech and Game Informer appreciate the immersive experience and engaging storytelling, suggesting that the game offers a compelling adventure for fans of interactive horror narratives. However, the reviews also reveal a significant number of criticisms regarding the game's execution. Many critics, including GameMAG and Slant Magazine, describe House of Ashes as the weakest entry in the anthology, pointing to a lackluster story and tedious gameplay. Technical flaws are frequently mentioned, with GameOver.gr and PC Games expressing disappointment over these issues, which detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Games.cz and Vandal, argue that the game fails to deliver the expected horror elements and impactful storytelling, suggesting that it feels like a step back from its predecessors. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide between those who find House of Ashes to be a solid addition to the series and those who see it as a missed opportunity. While some, like We Got This Covered and GamingBolt, regard it as a strong entry with engaging themes and character growth, others highlight its shortcomings, particularly in terms of gameplay and narrative depth. The game is generally viewed as entertaining, especially for fans of the genre, but many critics agree that it does not reach the heights of previous titles like Until Dawn. As a result, House of Ashes is seen as a worthwhile experience for some, while others express concern about the future direction of the series.

TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes earns mixed reviews, with praise for its strong narrative and character development from some critics who call it the best installment yet. However, many others deem it the weakest entry, citing a lackluster story, tedious gameplay, and technical flaws as major drawbacks. While the game offers an entertaining experience for interactive horror fans, it falls short of the heights set by previous titles like Until Dawn, leaving a divide on its overall impact and the series' future direction.

MONSTER

Reviews

160 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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