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MONSTER

The Quarry

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Quarry
Item: The Quarry
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

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

AvailableJun 10, 2022

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

DeveloperSupermassive Games

Overview

It's late summer in the remote forests of upstate New York, and the teen counselors of Hackett's Quarry have the camp to themselves for one final night. That means no kids, no adults, and no rules. In this thrilling cinematic tale, you control the fates of all nine camp counselors as their party plans unravel into an unpredictable night of horror. With life-or-death decisions around every turn, the choices you make will determine how the story unfolds.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Quarry serves up a nostalgic horror narrative with player choices affecting outcomes, earning praise for character development and twists. However, critics also call it clichéd, slow, and predictable, with an unsatisfying ending. While fans of the genre may enjoy its engaging elements, it ultimately falls short of delivering a groundbreaking story.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of The Quarry has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its homage to classic 80s and 90s horror films. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Age and Gamer.nl, appreciate the engaging narrative centered around a group of camp counselors facing mysterious threats, highlighting the effective use of player choices that influence character fates. Critics like Game Rant and Game Revolution commend the character development and the twists that keep players invested, suggesting that the narrative is well-structured and offers replayability through multiple endings. Additionally, IGN Italia and The Loadout note that the story successfully intertwines supernatural elements with traditional horror tropes, enhancing the overall atmosphere and tension throughout the game. However, several critics have pointed out significant flaws in the narrative. Games.cz and IGN Portugal criticize the story for being clichéd and slow to develop, with poorly written dialogues that fail to create an emotional connection with the characters. Push Square and GameWatcher echo these sentiments, mentioning the predictability of the plot and the lack of surprises, which detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, some reviewers, like PC Gamer and Digital Chumps, express disappointment over the abrupt ending, suggesting that it leaves players feeling unsatisfied. The consensus among critics is that while the story has engaging elements, it often falls into predictable patterns and fails to fully capitalize on its potential. Overall, the critics' consensus on The Quarry reflects a divided sentiment. While many acknowledge its strengths in character development and engaging narrative twists, a significant number of reviewers highlight its reliance on horror clichés and predictability, which diminishes the overall impact of the story. Critics like Wccftech and AusGamers provide a more favorable view, emphasizing the compelling nature of the narrative and the depth of character interactions, yet they cannot completely overlook the criticisms regarding pacing and resolution. Ultimately, The Quarry appears to be a game that offers an entertaining experience for fans of the horror genre, but it may not fully satisfy those seeking a groundbreaking narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Quarry captivates with its branching narrative and impactful choices, enhancing replayability and immersion. However, critics slam its oversimplified gameplay, likening it to a passive interactive movie rather than a gripping game, particularly criticizing trivial quick-time events. While it shines in storytelling, it falters in delivering the tension and depth players desire, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Quarry has been recognized for its engaging narrative structure and decision-making mechanics, which allow players to influence character fates significantly. Critics like PSX Brasil and Shacknews highlight the impact of choices on the story, emphasizing how decisions can lead to vastly different outcomes, enhancing the replayability of the game. The exploration elements, as noted by PlayStation Universe, provide players with the opportunity to delve into richly detailed environments filled with collectibles, which add depth to the backstory and enhance immersion. Additionally, the introduction of new mechanics like the Death Rewind feature, praised by Trusted Reviews, has been seen as a positive step towards making the gameplay more forgiving and accessible. However, a significant number of critics have pointed out the limitations and oversimplifications present in The Quarry's gameplay. Games.cz and Softpedia both criticize the quick-time events (QTEs) for being trivial and poorly integrated, which detracts from the overall engagement and tension that players might expect from a horror title. The gameplay has been described as more passive and film-like, with critics like New Game Network and MeuPlayStation expressing disappointment over the lack of depth and challenge in the interactive elements. Many reviewers, including IGN and Digital Spy, echoed sentiments about the gameplay feeling more like an interactive movie rather than a fully-fledged game, leading to a sense of disconnection from the characters and their fates. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry offers a compelling narrative experience with significant choices that can alter the story, it falls short in providing a robust gameplay experience. The reliance on simplified mechanics and the predominance of cinematic elements lead to a feeling of passivity, as noted by multiple reviewers. Critics like PC Gamer and Digital Chumps emphasize that the gameplay lacks the tension and interactivity that fans of Supermassive Games may have hoped for, resulting in a mixed reception. Ultimately, while the game succeeds in storytelling and atmosphere, it struggles to balance these elements with engaging gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Quarry impresses with stunning graphics and lifelike character animations, earning praise for its visual fidelity and immersive environments. Critics highlight its effective use of motion capture, enhancing emotional depth and horror atmosphere. However, issues like poor lighting, uncanny animations, and technical glitches detract from the experience. While the game excels visually, it still has some shortcomings to address. Overall, it's a standout in the genre, though not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

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 Quarry is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's impressive visual fidelity and attention to detail. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe and GameSpot highlighted the stunning character models and lifelike facial animations, noting that every nuance contributes significantly to the emotional depth of the game. The use of motion capture technology has been particularly commended, with critics from GameStar and Ragequit.gr emphasizing the realistic expressions and gestures that enhance immersion. Additionally, the atmospheric environments have received accolades for their ability to evoke a sense of horror, with TheXboxHub noting the exceptional lighting during both day and night scenes, which adds to the game's overall aesthetic appeal. However, despite the strong praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Issues such as poor lighting in certain scenes, particularly highlighted by But Why Tho? and New Game Network, detract from the overall experience, making navigation challenging in darker environments. Critics like Game Rant and Twinfinite mentioned that while character models are impressive, some animations fall into the uncanny valley, which can break immersion. Additionally, minor technical issues, such as screen tearing and glitches, were noted by several reviewers, including GAMINGbible and CD-Action, indicating that while the game excels in many areas, it still has room for improvement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Quarry showcases a high level of graphical achievement, with many praising its realistic character designs and atmospheric environments. While there are valid criticisms regarding lighting, animation inconsistencies, and some technical glitches, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's visual presentation is one of its standout features. Critics like Malditos Nerds and IGN France encapsulated this sentiment well, recognizing the game's impressive graphics while acknowledging the minor issues that prevent it from being flawless. Overall, The Quarry is celebrated for its visual design, making it a noteworthy entry in the genre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Quarry's sound design and music received mixed reviews. Critics praised its ability to enhance horror through effective soundscapes and a nostalgic 80s vibe, with a diverse soundtrack featuring artists like Ariana Grande. However, many pointed out flaws, including distracting pop tracks, poor music execution, and synchronization issues that undermined immersion. While the atmosphere is strong, the musical choices often miss the mark, leaving a divided opinion on its overall impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music in The Quarry showcases several notable positives. Many critics praised the game's ability to enhance the horror atmosphere through effective sound design. For instance, Cultured Vultures noted that the sound design and music effectively enhance the horror atmosphere, while Hobby Consolas highlighted the strong sound design and notable soundtrack that complements the horror theme. Critics like IGN Spain and GameGrin also emphasized the nostalgic nods to 80s horror films, which further enrich the immersive experience. The inclusion of a diverse soundtrack featuring well-known artists, such as Ariana Grande, was seen as a positive addition by critics like PSX Brasil and Stevivor, contributing to the overall atmosphere and emotional impact of the game. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Windows Central criticized the distracting pop music playlist that disrupts tense moments, while Riot Pixels described the music selection as poorly executed and often out of place. Issues with audio synchronization were also mentioned by Games.cz and The Loadout, which detracted from immersion. Moreover, Softpedia found the voice acting to be unremarkable and the soundtrack forgettable, echoing a sentiment shared by others who felt that certain musical cues undermined the game's serious moments, as noted by Impulsegamer and Vgames. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a mixed view of the sound design and music in The Quarry. While many reviewers appreciated the atmospheric elements and the integration of a well-curated soundtrack that enhances the horror experience, there were notable criticisms regarding the inconsistency and execution of the music. Critics like GamingTrend and Malditos Nerds acknowledged the sound design as crucial for the horror experience, yet they also pointed out that some musical choices felt out of place. Ultimately, while The Quarry succeeds in creating a tense atmosphere through its sound design, the execution of its music leaves room for improvement, reflecting a divided opinion among reviewers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The Quarry boasts strong voice acting, with critics praising performances from stars like Brenda Song and David Arquette for enhancing character depth and emotional stakes. While some noted issues with robotic deliveries and disjointed animations, the overall consensus is that the voice acting significantly elevates the game's narrative and immersion, making it a standout feature despite a few execution flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Quarry has received a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising the performances of its star-studded cast. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and IGN France highlighted the strong delivery of well-known actors like Brenda Song and David Arquette, noting that their performances contribute significantly to character depth and engagement. Critics from GamesRadar+ and Game Informer echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the younger ensemble's performances bring the characters to life and enhance the emotional stakes of the narrative. The use of motion capture technology further elevates the experience, allowing for a more immersive portrayal of the characters, as noted by NME and PC Games. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the voice acting. Games.cz criticized certain performances as robotic and lacking emotional depth, while Comicbook.com mentioned that the blending of various takes due to the game's branching narrative resulted in moments where performances felt out of sync. Additionally, The Enemy noted that while the voice acting is generally good, it can be undermined by disjointed or exaggerated character animations. These critiques suggest that while the talent is present, the execution may not always meet the high expectations set by the cast's credentials. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Quarry features a strong voice acting performance that enhances the game's narrative and emotional impact. While there are valid criticisms regarding certain performances and technical aspects, the majority of reviewers, including DualShockers and Malditos Nerds, agree that the voice acting is a highlight of the game. The combination of a talented cast, effective emotional delivery, and engaging dialogue contributes positively to the immersive experience, making it a commendable aspect of The Quarry.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Quarry impresses with solid performance and graphics on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X, earning praise for stability and smooth operation. However, it suffers from notable technical issues across platforms, including bugs, performance dips, and audio inconsistencies that disrupt gameplay and immersion. While the game offers a compelling narrative, these flaws require urgent attention to enhance the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The technical performance of The Quarry has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths highlighted by critics. On PC, several reviewers, including PC Gamer and GameSpew, praised the overall stability and smooth performance, with minimal issues reported. Critics like Malditos Nerds noted that the game is well-optimized, performing reliably even under higher technical demands. The PS5 version also received positive feedback, with GamePro Germany and The Games Machine commenting on its smooth operation and lack of significant bugs, indicating a solid technical foundation. Similarly, the Xbox Series X version has been described as performing exceptionally well, with XboxEra noting seamless transitions between gameplay and cutscenes, showcasing a high level of polish. However, despite the positives, there are several technical issues reported across all platforms. On PC, critics such as GamingTrend and The Enemy pointed out noticeable performance dips, stuttering during transitions, and various bugs that could detract from the experience. The Xbox Series X version also faced criticism, with IGN Portugal and Slant Magazine mentioning disruptive bugs and awkward scene transitions that break immersion. For the PS5, reviewers like PSX Brasil and GamersRD noted audio inconsistencies and camera control issues that could hinder gameplay, suggesting that while the performance is generally good, there are still areas needing improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry showcases impressive technical achievements, especially in terms of graphics and performance on higher-end systems, it is marred by a range of technical issues across all platforms. Critics agree that the game offers a compelling experience, but the presence of bugs, performance inconsistencies, and awkward transitions can detract from the overall enjoyment. As highlighted by IGN Adria and Game Rant, the game’s character-driven narrative is particularly vulnerable to these disruptions, emphasizing the need for further refinement to enhance immersion and gameplay fluidity.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Quarry offers strong replay value with its branching narratives and 186 potential endings, praised by critics for its unique scenarios and alternative modes like 'Movie Mode' and multiplayer. However, concerns arise regarding limited meaningful choices, repetitive cutscenes, and a lack of scene skip options, making some players hesitant to replay. While it appeals to interactive narrative fans, the overall execution may dampen its replayability, leaving some feeling it doesn't quite live up to its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Quarry present a mixed but generally favorable view, particularly highlighting the game's extensive branching narratives and multiple endings. Many critics, such as Game Informer and XGN, emphasize the sheer volume of choices, with Game Informer noting a "spiderweb of paths" leading to 186 potential endings. This vast array of outcomes encourages players to explore different scenarios, making each playthrough feel unique. Additionally, features like the 'Movie Mode' and multiplayer options, as mentioned by COGconnected and Pure Xbox, provide alternative ways to experience the game, enhancing its replayability. Critics like IGN Japan and Xbox Tavern also acknowledge that the game's structure allows for varied experiences, which can be compelling for players who enjoy narrative-driven gameplay. However, despite the potential for replay value, several critics express concerns about the limitations that may hinder repeated playthroughs. Riot Pixels and Cubed3 point out that the lack of meaningful choices and the repetitive nature of cutscenes can make replaying feel like a chore. Video Chums and PC Invasion echo this sentiment, noting the absence of a scene skip option and the lengthy chapters as deterrents for revisiting the game. Moreover, some critics, such as Player 2 and Gaming Age, argue that the choices often affect only minor aspects of the story, which diminishes the incentive to replay. This sentiment is echoed by critics like TheSixthAxis, who suggest that players familiar with Supermassive's previous titles may not find The Quarry as impactful, further complicating its replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry does offer significant replay value through its branching paths and multiple endings, the experience is tempered by issues related to pacing and the meaningfulness of player choices. Critics like GameStar and Digital Spy highlight that while the game has a lot of potential for varied experiences, the execution may leave players feeling less inclined to replay it frequently. Ultimately, The Quarry appears to cater well to fans of interactive narratives, but its replayability might not be as robust as some players hope due to the repetitive elements and lack of substantial choice impact.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding The Quarry is predominantly positive, with many reviewers praising its engaging storytelling, strong character development, and impressive visuals. Critics like Vandal and Game Rant highlight the game as a successful horror title that captures the essence of its predecessor, Until Dawn, while offering a rich narrative experience. The game's interactive elements and the ability to explore multiple endings are frequently mentioned as standout features, with Game Informer noting the thrilling survival aspect and the potential for chaos stemming from player choices. Additionally, the nostalgic homage to slasher films and the engaging gameplay mechanics have been well received, as seen in reviews from MondoXbox and Windows Central, who both commend the game's ability to blend horror and interactivity effectively. However, The Quarry is not without its flaws, which several critics have pointed out. Issues such as pacing, a lack of genuine scares, and technical shortcomings have been highlighted by reviewers like GamesRadar+ and IGN Adria, who feel that the game relies too heavily on the strengths of previous titles without significantly innovating. Critics like VideoGamer and Merlin'in Kazanı express disappointment in the narrative and character issues, suggesting that while the game is entertaining, it may not fully meet player expectations, especially regarding its horror elements. The criticism of the QTE (Quick Time Events) system and the limited gameplay experience has also been echoed by multiple reviewers, indicating that while the game excels in storytelling, it may fall short in providing a challenging interactive experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that The Quarry is a compelling interactive horror experience that, while not perfect, is highly enjoyable for fans of the genre. Many reviewers, including Twinfinite and Digital Chumps, recommend the game for its engaging narrative and character development, despite acknowledging its shortcomings. The game is often described as a worthy addition to Supermassive Games' portfolio, with a strong emphasis on replayability and a captivating atmosphere. Critics like God is a Geek and But Why Tho? highlight that, despite its flaws, The Quarry is a memorable experience that stands out in the horror genre, especially when enjoyed with friends, solidifying its position as a recommended title for horror enthusiasts.

TL;DR

The Quarry is a praised horror game lauded for its engaging story, strong character development, and impressive visuals, reminiscent of Until Dawn. Reviewers highlight its interactive elements and multiple endings as key strengths. However, it faces criticism for pacing issues, a lack of genuine scares, and reliance on familiar mechanics. Despite these flaws, it’s deemed a fun and memorable experience for horror fans, particularly when played with friends. A solid, if imperfect, addition to Supermassive Games’ lineup.

MONSTER

Reviews

209 reviews found

100

GameGrin

Jun 8, 2022