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MONSTER

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan

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

2019

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

AvailableAug 29, 2019

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

DeveloperSupermassive Games

Overview

Enter the world of The Dark Pictures - A series of standalone cinematic horror games. Players will be challenged to explore and uncover each story with the knowledge that all their choices have consequences and all playable characters can live, any and all can die...

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan delivers an engaging multiplayer horror experience rooted in classic narratives, but critics largely panned its story for poor character development, pacing issues, and predictable plot twists. While the choice-and-consequence system offers replayability, the lackluster execution leaves players disappointed compared to its predecessor, Until Dawn. Ultimately, it’s a cooperative thrill ride hindered by narrative flaws that undermine its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with some praising its engaging multiplayer mode and the potential for varied experiences based on player choices. Critics like IGN and GameCritics highlight the game's choice-and-consequence system, which adds a layer of replayability and engagement, especially in online co-op settings. The narrative's foundation in urban legends and classic horror tropes is also noted as a positive aspect, with Gameplanet mentioning the game's B-movie feel and atmosphere, which some players found enjoyable. Critics such as TheXboxHub and Daily Star commend the character interactions and performances, suggesting that the emotional stakes can resonate with players, leading to a captivating horror experience. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story leans towards the negative, with many reviewers criticizing its execution and depth. Xbox Achievements and Hardcore Gamer both point out significant issues with character development, pacing, and cohesion, describing the narrative as lacking intrigue and filled with plot holes. Several critics, including Push Square and We Got This Covered, echo these sentiments, noting that the characters are often annoying or feel like ciphers, with the dialogue described as unnatural. The game's reliance on jump scares and a predictable plot twist further detracts from the horror experience, as highlighted by Screen Rant and Gameblog.fr, who argue that the story fails to deliver the tension and suspense found in other horror games like Until Dawn. In summary, while Man of Medan offers an engaging multiplayer experience and a foundation in classic horror narratives, critics largely agree that its story falls short in terms of character development, pacing, and overall intrigue. The consensus is that the game struggles to balance its horror elements with meaningful storytelling, leading to a narrative that many found disappointing. Critics like JeuxActu and SomosXbox emphasize the game's inability to match the depth and twists of its predecessor, Until Dawn, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential. Overall, the game may appeal to players seeking a cooperative horror experience, but its narrative shortcomings are a significant drawback that many reviewers could not overlook.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan impresses with its engaging narrative and impactful player choices, praised for enhancing replayability and adding multiplayer perspectives. However, it falters with repetitive, simplistic gameplay, linear environments, and frustrating quick-time events that limit player agency. Critics note sluggish controls and minimal evolution from its predecessor, Until Dawn. While the story shines, the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan has garnered some praise for its focus on narrative-driven experiences and the incorporation of player choices that significantly impact character fates. Critics like Push Square and Gameblog.fr highlight the branching paths and the tension created by the potential for characters to live or die based on player decisions, which adds a layer of engagement and replayability to the game. The inclusion of multiplayer modes, as noted by ZTGD and Daily Star, also enhances the experience, allowing players to explore different perspectives and outcomes. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Press Start Australia, appreciate the improvements made to the genre, like tracking character traits and relationships, which enriches the overall experience. However, the gameplay has also received substantial criticism for its repetitive and simplistic mechanics. VGC and CGMagazine both point out that the moment-to-moment gameplay can feel monotonous, often consisting of wandering through linear environments and engaging in quick-time events (QTEs) that lack depth. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Game Informer echo this sentiment, noting that the gameplay feels "on rails" with minimal player agency, leading to a sense of frustration, especially when quick-time events can result in character deaths for minor mistakes. The slow character movements and cumbersome controls mentioned by RPG Fan and Carole Quintaine further contribute to a feeling of sluggishness that detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Man of Medan offers an engaging narrative and a unique multiplayer experience, it is hindered by repetitive gameplay mechanics and a lack of meaningful player interaction. Many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and GameStar, draw parallels to its predecessor, Until Dawn, suggesting that while there are minor improvements, the gameplay remains largely unchanged and can feel underwhelming. The focus on narrative and character choices is appreciated, but the execution leaves something to be desired, leading to a mixed reception regarding the gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan impresses with its high production values, detailed graphics, and authentic character portrayals through real actors. However, critics highlight significant issues like framerate drops, awkward facial animations, and inconsistent technical performance that undermine the immersive experience. While it has potential, the game's visual execution leaves a mixed impression, making it appealing for horror fans but lacking polish for those seeking a refined aesthetic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting the game's potential in creating an immersive atmosphere. Many reviewers, such as Game Rant and PlayStation Universe, commend the high production values, noting the detailed character models and environments that contribute to a visually striking experience. Critics like Cineworld and Wccftech also point out the impressive facial animations and well-lit settings that enhance the horror elements of the game. The use of real actors, as mentioned by Game Rant, adds a layer of authenticity to the character portrayals, and the cinematic camera angles, appreciated by Areajugones, further enhance the storytelling experience. Despite these strengths, several critics have pointed out significant flaws that detract from the overall visual experience. Many reviews, including those from TrueAchievements and Gaming Age, highlight issues such as framerate drops, stuttering, and inconsistent technical performance that can disrupt immersion. Critics like Push Square and GameCrate mention the uncanny valley effect, where facial animations can appear awkward or robotic, breaking the sense of realism. Furthermore, IGN Italia and EGM note that the game suffers from a lack of polish, with some environments described as bland or uninspired, impacting the overall aesthetic quality. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Man of Medan showcases moments of impressive graphics and atmospheric design, it is marred by technical issues and inconsistent execution. Reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and PC Gamer emphasize the game's potential that is often undermined by glitches and animation problems. Critics recognize that the game has the foundation for a visually captivating experience, but the execution falls short in several areas, leaving a mixed impression. The combination of high production values and notable technical shortcomings suggests that Man of Medan is a title that may appeal to horror enthusiasts but may not fully satisfy those seeking a polished visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan impresses with its immersive sound design and atmospheric score, praised as some of the best in horror gaming. Critics highlight the effective tension-building audio but criticize inconsistent voice acting and dialogue quality, which detracts from immersion. Technical issues like audio mixing and reliance on jump scares also diminish the horror experience. Despite these shortcomings, the game offers an enjoyable multiplayer mode that helps balance its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

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: Man of Medan have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive and atmospheric experience. Many reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and Gamer.nl, commend the sound design as "effective" and "fantastic," contributing significantly to the horror ambiance. The score composed by Jason Graves is noted for enhancing the tension without being intrusive, as mentioned by DarkStation and Meristation. Critics like TheXboxHub also appreciate the emotive soundtrack and sound effects, describing them as some of the best in horror gaming. Furthermore, several reviewers, including PlaySense and PC Invasion, emphasize the atmospheric sound design that effectively builds suspense and unease throughout the gameplay. However, the critiques also reveal notable shortcomings, particularly regarding the voice acting and dialogue quality. Reviewers such as GameSpot and Twinfinite express disappointment in the stilted and unrealistic interactions between characters, which detracts from immersion. The voice acting is described as inconsistent, with some performances being commendable while others feel "phoned-in," as noted by Xbox Achievements and Worth Playing. Additionally, technical issues such as audio mixing problems, where dialogue is sometimes drowned out by ambient sounds, have been pointed out by Adventure Gamers. Critics like Game Revolution and DualShockers highlight that the reliance on jump scares can feel cheap or numbing, further diminishing the overall horror experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Man of Medan successfully utilizes sound design and music to create a tense atmosphere, it suffers from inconsistent voice acting and dialogue that can undermine the immersion. Many reviewers appreciate the atmospheric qualities of the sound design, with C0Gconnected and Game Informer noting that the audio effectively enhances the horror elements. However, the uneven quality of voice performances and the reliance on jump scares have led to mixed feelings about the game's effectiveness in delivering a truly frightening experience. As noted by Gameplanet, the game compensates for its weaknesses by providing an enjoyable multiplayer experience, which may help to offset some of the shortcomings in sound and dialogue.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Man of Medan is a mixed bag. Critics praise standout performances from actors like Shawn Ashmore but slam the dialogue as "distractingly awful" and "hilariously bad," leading to uneven immersion. While some actors elevate their roles, poor writing and inconsistent delivery hinder the overall experience, leaving players caught in a tug-of-war between quality and cringe.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting notable positive aspects. Critics such as Game Informer and Daily Star praised the performances of well-known actors like Shawn Ashmore and Pip Torrens, noting that their contributions elevate the overall quality of the game. Ashmore's portrayal of Conrad is frequently mentioned as a standout, with RPG Fan and COGconnected emphasizing his ability to bring depth to his character. Additionally, some reviews, like that of Gaming Age, acknowledge that while the dialogue can be hokey, the actors do their best with the material, suggesting a level of commitment to their roles that resonates with players. However, the negatives surrounding the voice acting are prominent and echoed by numerous critics. Push Square and Xbox Achievements criticized the dialogue as "genuinely, distractingly awful" and "horribly stilted," respectively, indicating a significant disconnect between the writing and the actors' performances. Video Chums went as far as to describe the voice acting as "hilariously bad," particularly in the game's prologue, while GameCrate pointed out issues with misused slang and awkward phrasing that detract from immersion. Many reviewers also noted inconsistencies in tone, with Shacknews and M3 mentioning that strange reactions during dialogues can pull players out of the experience, leading to an overall impression of uneven quality. In summary, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Man of Medan is decidedly mixed. While there are commendable performances from certain actors, particularly Ashmore and Torrens, the overall execution suffers from poor dialogue and inconsistent delivery. Critics like TrueAchievements and Game Rant acknowledge the challenges posed by the script, which can undermine the actors' efforts. Ultimately, the game presents a dichotomy of solid performances battling against a backdrop of awkward writing, leaving many reviewers, such as Hooked Gamers and GameSpew, feeling that the voice acting is a blend of highs and lows that affects the game's immersive qualities.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan shows some technical improvements on platforms like PS4 and PC, but suffers from serious performance issues across the board. Xbox One users face severe framerate drops and glitches, while the PS4 version struggles with stuttering and audio sync problems. Even on higher-end systems, issues like texture pop-in persist, overshadowing the game's visual strengths and narrative. Critics agree: technical flaws severely impact the gameplay experience, leaving much to be desired.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

32%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan, it is evident that there are some positives across the various gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 4, several critics noted that the game runs at a better framerate than its predecessor, Until Dawn, thanks to the use of Unreal Engine 4, with Screen Rant highlighting this improvement. Additionally, Gamers Heroes mentioned that the game can look visually impressive at times, with realistic textures and character models. On PC, MGG noted that the game runs smoothly overall, indicating that while there are some minor issues, the experience can be largely stable. On the Xbox Series X, TheXboxHub acknowledged that while there are technical hiccups, the game still functions adequately, suggesting that the newer hardware may mitigate some issues experienced on older consoles. However, the negatives for each platform are significant and consistent. On Xbox One, both GamingTrend and Gaming Age reported severe framerate issues, constant stuttering, and glitches that detracted from the overall experience. Jeuxvideo.com also noted frequent freezes and frame rate drops. The PlayStation 4 version is similarly plagued by technical problems, with critics like Push Square and Gamers' Temple emphasizing constant technical hiccups, stuttering, and audio syncing issues. Critics such as E.G.M. and Vandal echoed these sentiments, pointing out that these performance issues can disrupt gameplay and immersion. On PC, while PCWorld and GameWatcher noted bugs and control issues, the sentiment was that the experience could be marred by technical difficulties, particularly with mouse and keyboard controls. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Man of Medan suffers from a range of technical performance issues that significantly impact the gameplay experience. The frequent frame rate drops, stuttering, and glitches reported by critics such as TrueAchievements and Game Revolution suggest that the game is not well-optimized, particularly on older hardware like the Xbox One and the base PS4. Even on more powerful systems, such as the PS4 Pro and PC, issues like texture pop-in and audio desynchronization persist. While there are moments where the game shines visually, the overarching sentiment is that the technical shortcomings overshadow the narrative and gameplay, leaving many critics disappointed with the overall execution of the title.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan offers enticing replayability with its branching narratives and multiplayer modes, praised for enhancing the horror experience. However, critics warn of its short runtime (around 4 hours) and shallow story choices that may dampen the urge for multiple playthroughs. Technical issues and a lack of fast-forward options further detract from the experience, leaving some players feeling underwhelmed. In short, while the game has replay potential, its execution may not satisfy those seeking a deep, engaging revisit.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan reveals a mix of enthusiasm and caution among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's branching story paths and decision-making mechanics as significant positives that encourage replayability. For instance, TrueAchievements notes the complex branching narrative that results in different outcomes based on player choices, while GameCritics praises the multiplayer mode for providing a unique shared horror experience. Critics like Game Rant and Press Start Australia also emphasize the value of the Movie Night mode and online co-op, which add layers of enjoyment and replay potential, making the game more engaging than many similar titles. However, several reviewers express concerns regarding the game's brevity and the limitations of its replay value. CGMagazine points out that the game is short, lasting around four hours, which diminishes the incentive to replay. IGN Italia echoes this sentiment, noting that the branching paths are not extensive enough to spark a strong desire for multiple playthroughs. Additionally, some critics, such as GamingTrend, mention technical performance issues that hinder the accessibility of content, further complicating the replay experience. The lack of a fast-forward option in lengthy scenes, as mentioned by Trusted Reviews, also detracts from the replayability, making subsequent playthroughs feel tedious. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Man of Medan possesses elements that promote replay value—such as branching narratives, multiplayer modes, and the thrill of exploring different outcomes—the game's short length and occasional lack of depth in story choices may limit its appeal for repeated play. Critics like TrueGaming and Gamer.nl highlight the potential for exploration of different paths, but many also caution that the experience may not be compelling enough for immediate subsequent playthroughs. Thus, while the game is designed with replayability in mind, the execution may leave some players wanting more depth and engagement in their revisits.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan reveals a mixed reception among critics, with some highlighting its strengths. Many reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and DarkStation, commend the game for its engaging narrative and high production values, praising its immersive horror experience and the replayability offered through its branching paths and multiplayer modes. Critics like Gamers Heroes and M3 express appreciation for the game’s atmosphere and interactive gameplay, while others like IGN Spain and God is a Geek acknowledge the potential of the anthology format and the intriguing story that invites multiple playthroughs. The game’s ability to engage players through various modes, such as Shared Story and Movie Night, is also seen as a significant positive aspect, enhancing the overall experience. Conversely, numerous critics point out substantial flaws that detract from the game's overall impact. Push Square and CGMagazine express disappointment in the storytelling, describing it as lacking depth and polish, with Push Square labeling the scares as "limp" and the dialogue as "unnatural." Technical issues are frequently mentioned, with reviewers like Gamers Heroes and Hardcore Gamer noting frustrating camera angles and character animations that hinder the gameplay experience. Critics such as Twinfinite and Jeuxvideo.com echo these sentiments, stating that the game falls short when compared to its predecessor, Until Dawn, with many feeling that it does not live up to the high expectations set by earlier titles in the genre. In summary, while Man of Medan demonstrates potential and offers an engaging horror experience, the consensus among critics is that it is marred by a lackluster story and technical shortcomings. Reviewers like Game Revolution and Screen Rant suggest that, despite its flaws, the game serves as a decent introduction to The Dark Pictures Anthology, with hopes for improvement in future installments. Overall, the game is seen as a mixed bag—capable of delivering thrills and engaging narratives, yet hindered by execution issues that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

TL;DR

The Dark Pictures Anthology: Man of Medan elicits mixed reviews, praised for its engaging narrative and immersive horror but criticized for lackluster storytelling and technical flaws. While it offers replayability and fun multiplayer modes, many feel it falls short of its predecessor, Until Dawn. Ultimately, it’s a decent start to the anthology with potential for improvement, but plagued by execution issues that hinder its overall impact.

MONSTER

Reviews

123 reviews found

100

Daily Star

Xbox One

Aug 28, 2019