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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, PlayStation 5

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 impresses with its engaging narrative and character depth, winning praise for its twists and interactive choices that enhance replayability. However, it suffers from clichés, pacing issues, and an abrupt ending, leaving many critics frustrated by unresolved plot points. While entertaining, it struggles to rise above standard horror tropes, ultimately delivering a mixed experience that lacks the narrative satisfaction it could achieve.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Quarry is mixed, with several critics praising its engaging narrative and character development. Many reviewers, such as Twinfinite and Cognconnected, highlight the well-crafted narrative filled with twists and turns that effectively intertwine personal struggles with horror elements. Critics like VG247 and KeenGamer appreciate the multiple paths and character interactions that influence the outcome, enhancing replayability. The game is noted for its ability to blend various genres, including supernatural horror, slasher movie, and teen comedy, as mentioned by TheXboxHub. Additionally, several reviewers, including Game Informer and ComicBook, commend the depth of the characters, which helps players connect with their fates in the high-stakes environment of Hackett's Quarry. Despite these positives, many critics point out significant shortcomings in the narrative. The story is often criticized for relying heavily on clichés and 80s horror tropes, as noted by Gaming Nexus and Games.cz, which detracts from its originality. Critics like PC Invasion and Merlin'in Kazanı express concerns over the pacing and the lack of depth in character actions, which can lead to poor decision-making that drives the plot. Additionally, multiple reviewers, including GameSkinny and Trusted Reviews, mention the abrupt ending and unresolved plot points that leave players wanting more closure, undermining the overall narrative experience. In summary, while The Quarry has been praised for its engaging story, character depth, and the ability to keep players guessing, it also faces criticism for its reliance on familiar horror tropes and pacing issues. Critics such as Stevivor and Digital Chumps acknowledge the compelling narrative but highlight the presence of plot holes and a lack of resolution. Overall, the consensus suggests that while the game offers an entertaining experience with potential for multiple playthroughs, it falls short of delivering a fully satisfying narrative that could elevate it beyond its genre conventions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Quarry impresses with its interactive storytelling and player-driven choices, featuring innovative mechanics like 'Death Rewind' and atmospheric environments. However, it falters due to simplistic quick-time events and clunky exploration, making gameplay feel more like an interactive movie than a challenge. Critics praise its cinematic narrative but criticize its lack of depth, leaving fans of traditional gameplay wanting more.

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 garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its emphasis on interactive storytelling and decision-making. Reviewers like Game Informer and COGconnected highlight the game's focus on player choices that significantly affect character fates and story progression, creating a sense of agency and investment in the narrative. The inclusion of innovative mechanics, such as the 'Death Rewind' feature and the 'Don't Breathe' quick-time event, has been noted as enhancing the tension and engagement during critical moments (GAMINGbible, Digital Chumps). Critics also appreciate the atmospheric environments that Supermassive Games has crafted, which contribute to the immersive experience, as mentioned by GameSpew and Areajugones. The game’s branching narratives and multiple endings, with some reviewers citing up to 186 possible outcomes (JeuxActu), offer a level of replayability that is appealing to players looking for varied experiences. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism, particularly regarding its reliance on quick-time events (QTEs) and exploration mechanics. Many critics, including Inverse and Riot Pixels, argue that the QTEs feel overly simplistic and fail to deliver the tension found in similar titles, leading to a lack of challenge and engagement. The exploration segments are often described as clunky and restrictive, with automatic character movements and limited player control detracting from the overall experience (SECTOR.sk, Checkpoint Gaming). Additionally, several reviewers, such as Gamer.no and IGN Portugal, point out that the choices made throughout the game often feel predetermined, diminishing their impact and reducing the sense of spontaneity that players might expect from a narrative-driven game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry successfully delivers a cinematic and engaging narrative experience, it is hindered by gameplay mechanics that lack depth and challenge. Many reviewers appreciate the innovative storytelling elements and the atmospheric presentation, but they express disappointment in the execution of gameplay features, particularly the QTEs and exploration mechanics. Critics like VideoGamer and Vandal emphasize that the game feels more like an interactive film than a traditional game, which may appeal to some players but could alienate those seeking a more robust gameplay experience. Ultimately, The Quarry stands as a testament to the potential of narrative-driven games, yet it leaves room for improvement in its gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Quarry impresses with stunning graphics and immersive visual design, earning praise for its character models and atmospheric settings. Critics highlight its photorealistic visuals, but also note technical flaws like poor lighting, animation inconsistencies, and audio issues that diminish the experience. Overall, it’s a visually striking horror game that showcases Supermassive's talent, though not without notable shortcomings.

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 for its impressive character models and atmospheric environments. Reviewers like IGN, PlayStation Universe, and PC Gamer highlight the photorealistic visuals and exceptional character animations, noting that the game effectively captures the nuances of emotions, which enhances player immersion. Critics such as PC Games and Game Informer commend the detailed environments that contribute to the game’s cinematic feel, while Gamer.nl appreciates the alignment of the visual design with the 80s theme, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The use of Unreal Engine 4 has been recognized for delivering stunning graphics, with many reviewers noting the high production value and effective lighting that elevates the horror experience. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the visual experience. Issues such as poor lighting, blurry textures, and uncanny valley effects in character animations were raised by critics like Cubed3 and Game Rant. Softpedia and Power Unlimited noted inconsistencies in character animations, particularly with facial expressions and hair physics, which can break immersion. Additionally, technical problems like stuttering and delayed audio, mentioned by Gamer.nl, further hinder the experience for some players. Critics such as GameSkinny and DualShockers also highlighted subpar water animations, which seem out of place compared to the overall visual quality. In summary, while the majority of critics agree that The Quarry boasts impressive graphics and visual design, with many praising the character models and atmospheric settings, there are enough criticisms regarding technical issues and animation inconsistencies to temper the enthusiasm. The consensus reflects a game that is visually appealing and immersive, yet not without its flaws. Critics like IGN Italia and The Enemy encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the game as a significant technical achievement for Supermassive, while still recognizing areas for improvement. Overall, The Quarry stands out as a visually striking title that successfully enhances its horror elements, despite some shortcomings that may affect certain players' experiences.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Quarry boasts impressive sound design and atmospheric music that heightens its horror elements, with many critics praising its immersive qualities. However, the game suffers from execution flaws, with a pop music playlist that disrupts tension and mediocre voice acting. Audio inconsistencies, such as delayed sound and mismatched visuals, further detract from the experience. Overall, while the sound design shows promise, significant issues hinder its effectiveness, leading to mixed reviews from critics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

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 of The Quarry is mixed, with several critics praising its atmospheric qualities and effective use of sound to enhance the horror experience. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and Pure Xbox, highlight the soundtrack's ability to create a strong atmosphere, with notable tracks that contribute positively to the game's immersive qualities. Critics like Launcher and VG247 commend the sound design for effectively building tension, with ambient sounds and music that complement the gameplay. Additionally, the inclusion of well-known artists and nostalgic references to 80s horror films, as noted by PSX Brasil and IGN Spain, adds to the overall appeal of the soundtrack, making it a significant aspect of the game's experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the execution of the music selection and sound design. Critics like Riot Pixels and Windows Central express dissatisfaction with the pop music playlist, which they feel disrupts the game's tense moments and detracts from immersion. Softpedia and Carole Quintaine echo these sentiments, describing the voice acting as mediocre and the soundtrack as forgettable or poorly integrated into the gameplay. Moreover, several reviewers, including The Loadout and SECTOR.sk, point out issues with audio consistency, such as delayed audio and dissonance between sound and visuals, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite the mixed reviews, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry features a commendable sound design that enhances the horror atmosphere, there are significant flaws in the execution of its music and audio integration. Many critics acknowledge the potential of the soundtrack to contribute to the game's mood, but they also highlight the inconsistencies and instances where the music feels out of place. Overall, the game demonstrates a strong commitment to sound design, as noted by GamingTrend and Gameblog.fr, but it struggles with execution in certain areas, leading to a divided opinion among reviewers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The Quarry boasts impressive voice acting from a star-studded cast, enhancing immersion and emotional depth, as praised by critics like KeenGamer and But Why Tho?. However, some reviews cite robotic performances, underutilized actors, and script issues as drawbacks. Overall, while flaws exist, the voice work remains a standout feature that elevates the game.

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the strong performances delivered by a star-studded cast. Reviewers such as KeenGamer and But Why Tho? highlighted the exceptional quality of the voice work, noting that the actors brought their characters to life with believable performances that significantly enhance the game's immersive experience. Critics like Gamersky and COGconnected echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the emotional depth and authenticity the voice acting contributes to the narrative. The use of motion capture technology has also been recognized as a key factor in elevating the performances, allowing for a more nuanced portrayal of the characters, as noted by Digital Spy and Ragequit.gr. Despite the overall acclaim, some reviewers pointed out notable shortcomings in the voice acting. Games.cz criticized the performances as robotic and lacking emotional depth, suggesting that certain characters delivered lines poorly. IGN Adria and GamesRadar+ mentioned the disappointment of high-profile actors having limited screen time, which detracted from the overall impact of their performances. Additionally, some critics, like Riot Pixels and VideoGamer, indicated that the script's weaknesses diminished the potential of the talented cast, resulting in a lack of memorable moments. Furthermore, issues with character animations, as highlighted by The Enemy and Impulsegamer, sometimes undermined the voice performances, leading to a disjointed experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Quarry features a commendable level of voice acting that enhances the game's charm and immersion. While there are valid criticisms regarding certain performances and script limitations, the majority of reviewers, including those from Xbox Tavern and Hardcore Gamer, recognized the strong contributions of the cast in making the characters engaging and relatable. The presence of well-known actors and their ability to deliver compelling performances has left a positive impression, with many considering it one of the standout aspects of the game. The general sentiment suggests that, despite some flaws, the voice acting in The Quarry is a significant strength that adds to the overall enjoyment of the experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Quarry delivers a compelling narrative but struggles with significant technical issues across all platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X show solid performance and quick loading times, glitches like facial capture problems and motion bugs mar the experience. PC users face a mixed bag, with some praising stability while others cite serious graphical issues. Critics are hopeful for future patches to enhance the game, but current inconsistencies disrupt immersion and gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The technical performance of The Quarry varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some reviewers highlighting positive aspects for each. On the PlayStation 5, critics such as MeuPlayStation and The Games Machine noted that the game runs smoothly with quick loading times and minimal bugs, showcasing solid technical performance. Similarly, on the Xbox Series X, both XboxEra and MondoXbox praised the game for its seamless transitions between gameplay and cutscenes, indicating a high level of polish. For PC, several reviews, including those from IGN Italia and Riot Pixels, emphasized that the game generally runs well, with stable frame rates and effective character animations, particularly during close-ups. However, the reviews also reveal a range of technical issues across all platforms that detract from the overall experience. On PS5, critics like Push Square and PSX Brasil pointed out various glitches, including facial capture issues and audio inconsistencies that disrupt immersion. Xbox Series X users reported motion capture bugs and input registration issues, as noted by IGN Portugal and ZTGD, which can lead to frustrating gameplay moments. On PC, the consensus is mixed; while some reviewers like GameGrin and Vandal found the performance satisfactory, others, including Gamer.nl and GamingTrend, reported significant problems such as graphical glitches, performance drops, and unskippable cutscenes that hinder the experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Quarry offers a compelling narrative and engaging gameplay, its technical performance is marred by inconsistencies and glitches across all platforms. Many reviewers highlighted that the game is generally stable but suffers from various issues that can disrupt immersion and gameplay. For instance, while PC users experienced both good performance and notable bugs, PS5 and Xbox Series X players echoed similar sentiments regarding glitches and technical hiccups. Despite these challenges, many critics remain optimistic about potential patches and improvements from the developers, suggesting that the game could become a more polished experience in the future.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Quarry has impressive replay potential with 186 unique endings and features like 'Death Rewind' and co-op modes, enticing players to explore different choices. However, critics flag issues like repetitive outcomes, tedious lengthy chapters, and a lack of meaningful decisions that undermine its replay value. While ambitious, the game’s design flaws may deter players from multiple playthroughs, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of critics regarding the replay value of The Quarry reveal a notable appreciation for its potential to engage players through multiple endings and branching narratives. Many reviewers, such as XboxEra and Digital Chumps, highlight the game's impressive feature of offering approximately 186 unique endings, which can entice players to explore different choices and outcomes. The inclusion of mechanics like the 'Death Rewind' feature, allowing players to alter decisions after character deaths, further enhances its replayability, as noted by critics like Destructoid and Gamersky. Additionally, the game’s cooperative modes and the innovative Movie Mode, which allows players to experience the story without the pressure of decision-making, are seen as valuable additions that bolster its replay value, as mentioned by GameSpew and SpazioGames. However, despite the promising aspects, several critics express significant concerns regarding the actual replay value of The Quarry. Inverse and Riot Pixels point out that while the game boasts numerous endings, the lack of meaningful choices and the repetitive nature of certain outcomes can diminish the incentive for multiple playthroughs. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Video Chums emphasize the tediousness of replaying due to lengthy chapters and the absence of a scene skip option, which can make subsequent runs feel laborious. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as PSX Brasil and PlaySense, suggest that the limited differentiation between character outcomes can lead to boredom, indicating that the game's design may not fully capitalize on its potential for replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of The Quarry. While many acknowledge the game’s ambition with its branching paths and numerous endings, they also highlight the shortcomings that can hinder the experience. Critics like PC Gamer and IGN Adria suggest that while the game encourages exploration of different scenarios, pacing issues and the need for quality-of-life improvements may deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Ultimately, The Quarry is seen as a title with significant replay potential, yet it is marred by design choices that may limit how often players wish to return to its narrative.

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.

In analyzing the overall sentiment surrounding The Quarry, it is evident that many reviewers appreciate its strengths, particularly in storytelling, character development, and visual presentation. Critics like IGN Italia and GamingTrend praise it as Supermassive's best work yet, highlighting its compelling narrative and strong character arcs. The game is often described as an engaging interactive horror experience, with GRYOnline.pl noting its successful blend of horror elements and a captivating storyline. Several reviewers, including ZTGD and TheXboxHub, commend the high-quality voice acting and superb visuals, emphasizing that the game offers a fun and immersive experience, especially when played with friends. The replayability factor is also frequently mentioned, with many critics, such as MeuPlayStation and The Loadout, acknowledging the game's ability to encourage multiple playthroughs due to its branching storylines and decision-making mechanics. However, despite these positives, The Quarry is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers express disappointment regarding its pacing and gameplay mechanics. GamesRadar+ points out pacing issues that detract from the overall experience, while Hardcore Gamer mentions an unsatisfying conclusion with unresolved plot threads. Critics like Oyungezer and Worth Playing also highlight technical shortcomings and gameplay limitations, suggesting that the game does not fully meet the high expectations set by its predecessor, Until Dawn. The game's price point is another concern, as noted by GamePro Germany and RPG Fan, with some reviewers feeling that it may not justify the cost for those who prefer limited playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is a mixed one, with The Quarry being recognized as a solid entry in the interactive horror genre, albeit with notable flaws. While many reviewers, including Pure Xbox and God is a Geek, recommend it for fans of horror and interactive storytelling, others, like Games.cz and Hardcore Gamer, feel it falls short of its predecessor's legacy. The game is characterized as entertaining and visually impressive, yet its pacing issues, technical performance, and gameplay mechanics leave some critics feeling that it could have been more innovative. Ultimately, The Quarry emerges as a divisive title that may delight fans of the genre while leaving others wanting more.

TL;DR

The Quarry shines with its gripping storytelling, strong character arcs, and stunning visuals, hailed as Supermassive's best by many critics. It's an engaging horror experience with impressive voice acting and high replayability thanks to branching storylines. However, it suffers from pacing issues, unresolved plot points, and technical flaws that disappoint some reviewers, leading to mixed opinions. While fans of interactive horror might enjoy it, others feel it doesn't quite live up to the legacy of Until Dawn. Ultimately, it’s a visually striking yet flawed game that divides critics.

MONSTER

Reviews

209 reviews found

100

GameGrin

Jun 8, 2022