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The Texas Chain Saw Massacre

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Item: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Horror, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 18, 2023

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

DeveloperSumo Nottingham

Overview

Take on the role of one of the notorious Slaughter family, or their victims, in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, a third-person asymmetrical horror experience based on the groundbreaking and iconic 1974 horror film.

Elsewhere

5.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game earns praise for its gritty homage to the 1974 cult classic, delivering an immersive horror experience that resonates with fans. Critics applaud its faithful lore adaptation and engaging multiplayer gameplay, though some lament the absence of a traditional story mode, which may deter narrative-focused players. While it successfully captures the film's terror, the game’s emphasis on multiplayer could alienate those seeking a linear story. Overall, it’s a love letter to horror enthusiasts, poised to attract both old fans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

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 Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game is largely positive, with many critics praising its homage to the iconic 1974 film. Critics like App Trigger and PlayStation Universe highlight how the game captures the gritty, grindhouse aesthetic of the original movie, providing an immersive atmosphere that resonates with fans of the horror genre. BaziCenter and Everyeye.it emphasize the terrifying experience of playing as either survivors or killers, noting the tension and depth added to the gameplay through character roles. The game is recognized for its faithful representation of the film's lore, with critics like CGMagazine and GameSpot commending its ability to transpose the film's signature terror into a modern multiplayer format. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's structure and narrative depth. MeuPlayStation and Xbox Tavern point out the lack of a linear story mode, which may disappoint players looking for a more traditional single-player experience. Critics such as Gaming Nexus and PlaySense mention that while the game adapts the massacre story with interesting characters, it ultimately focuses on multiplayer gameplay, which may alienate those who prefer a more narrative-driven approach. Additionally, TheSixthAxis notes that the game is not strictly based on the actual story of the film, suggesting a potential for future content but also indicating a departure from the established narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully captures the essence of the original film while offering a fresh take on the asymmetrical multiplayer genre. Critics like Game Rant and PCGamesN appreciate the game's ability to recreate the raw horror of the 1974 classic, even as some express concerns about its multiplayer focus and lack of a traditional story mode. The game is seen as a love letter to the franchise, appealing to fans of the horror genre while also inviting new players to experience the chilling world of the Sawyer family.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre delivers a thrilling asymmetrical multiplayer experience with intense cat-and-mouse dynamics and unique character abilities, earning praise for its strategic depth. However, critics point out issues with repetitiveness, limited survivor options, and technical hiccups like matchmaking problems. While it’s compelling and engaging, the game needs refinement to avoid predictability and enhance overall gameplay satisfaction.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its unique asymmetrical multiplayer format, which pits three family members against four victims. Reviewers like BaziCenter and PlayStation Universe commend the game for its intense and challenging experiences, highlighting the strategic depth that comes from each character's unique abilities and objectives. Critics such as Eurogamer and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the thrilling cat-and-mouse dynamics that the gameplay fosters, emphasizing the importance of stealth and teamwork for both sides. The game’s mechanics are described as well-balanced, with multiple ways to escape and engage, which keeps the experience fresh and engaging, as noted by Gaming Nexus and CGMagazine. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including MeuPlayStation and Gamereactor UK, point out issues with repetitiveness and a lack of variety in gameplay, suggesting that the mechanics can become monotonous over time. Critics like GameSpew and Xbox Tavern express frustration with contextual actions and the feeling that the gameplay lacks depth, particularly for survivors who may find their strategic options limited. Additionally, challenges with matchmaking and laggy connections have been highlighted by Stevivor, which can detract from the overall experience and lead to frustrating gameplay sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers a compelling and engaging asymmetrical multiplayer experience, though it struggles with certain gameplay limitations. While many reviewers praise the strategic elements and the thrill of the chase, there are notable concerns regarding repetitiveness and balance, particularly for the survivor side. Critics like Gameblog.fr and PlaySense acknowledge the potential for fun and tension but also caution that the gameplay loop can become predictable. Ultimately, the game presents a fresh take on the horror genre, but it may require further refinement to fully capitalize on its promising premise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre effectively recreates the chilling atmosphere of the original 1974 film with detailed maps and strong environmental design, earning praise for its immersive horror experience. However, critics also highlight significant flaws, including subpar graphics, poor animations, and technical issues like frame rate drops, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, while the game captures the film's essence, it lacks visual polish and innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

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 Texas Chain Saw Massacre have received a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their ability to evoke the chilling atmosphere of the original 1974 film. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Gaming Nexus, highlighted the game's intricate map designs and attention to detail, which effectively recreate iconic locations from the movie. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Eurogamer noted the stunning environmental design and the thematic presentation, with beautifully crafted maps that enhance the horror experience. Additionally, the use of Unreal Engine 4 has been recognized for creating a macabre atmosphere, with some critics, including Noisy Pixel and PCGamesN, commending the distinctiveness and high levels of detail in the maps, which contribute to an immersive gameplay experience. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's graphics and animations. Gameblog.fr and Gamereactor UK criticized the graphics as subpar and cheesy, with mentions of poor animations that detract from the overall experience. Many reviews, including those from App Trigger and GameGrin, echoed sentiments that while the visuals are not outright bad, they do not stand out or push the limits of the gaming platforms. Additionally, technical issues such as frame rate drops and glitches were noted by critics like Hobby Consolas and PlaySense, indicating that the game's performance could hinder the horror experience it aims to deliver. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully captures the essence and atmosphere of the original film through its detailed map design and thematic elements, it falls short in delivering a visually polished experience. Critics like CGMagazine and ComicBook pointed out that the graphics, while serviceable, lack innovation and can feel dated. The recurring feedback highlights that the game's visuals, though capable of immersing players in a horror setting, are marred by technical issues and a lack of aesthetic variety, leading to a mixed reception overall.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre are widely praised for their meticulous detail and ability to enhance gameplay, with critics highlighting the terrifying chainsaw sound and immersive atmosphere. While most reviews celebrate the audio's effectiveness in building tension, some note a lack of innovation and sluggish gameplay mechanics. Overall, the sound design significantly enhances the horror experience, solidifying its status as a standout feature, despite a few critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

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 Texas Chain Saw Massacre have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the meticulous attention to detail that enhances the gameplay experience. Reviewers from Everyeye.it and GameSpew highlighted how the sound design is not only well-crafted but also genuinely terrifying, with the iconic chainsaw sound playing a pivotal role in building tension. Critics like Noisy Pixel and PlayStation Universe echoed this sentiment, noting that the haunting music and sound effects create an immersive atmosphere that complements the horror elements of the game. Additionally, MeuPlayStation pointed out the effective mechanics that involve generating or avoiding loud noises, which significantly impact gameplay, further emphasizing the thoughtful design behind the audio experience. However, while the majority of reviews are positive, some critics expressed concerns regarding the lack of innovation within the sound design. Xbox Tavern noted that although the soundtrack and ambience successfully mirror the intensity of the original 1974 classic, they found nothing particularly new or groundbreaking in the audio presentation. Similarly, God is a Geek critiqued the effectiveness of Leatherface as a character, suggesting that while the sound design is strong, it does not compensate for gameplay mechanics that may feel sluggish. This indicates that while the sound design excels in creating tension and atmosphere, some aspects may not fully meet the expectations of all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre are exceptional, significantly enhancing the horror experience and capturing the essence of the original film. With numerous reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and GameGrin, praising the immersive audio that evokes a sense of dread, it is clear that the game's soundscape is a standout feature. Despite some critiques regarding innovation and gameplay mechanics, the overwhelming positive feedback suggests that the sound design effectively contributes to the overall enjoyment and tension of the game, making it a noteworthy aspect of the player experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is highly praised for enhancing immersion, with standout performances from Edwin Neal as the Hitchhiker and Kane Hodder as Leatherface. Critics commend the authenticity and chaotic essence captured by the Sawyer family and victims. However, some note that the single-player experience may falter without multiplayer voice chat, and there are hints of inconsistent quality across characters. Overall, the voice work is a highlight that enriches the game's horror atmosphere, despite a few shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has garnered a largely positive reception from various critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the game's immersive experience. Noisy Pixel notes the nostalgic touch of Edwin Neal reprising his role as the Hitchhiker, which adds authenticity to the character. Similarly, PlayStation Universe commends the voice acting across the board, particularly praising the performances of the Sawyer family members and the victims for their superb capture, which significantly contributes to the game's overall atmosphere. GameGrin echoes this sentiment, describing the voice acting as "superb" with unhinged performances that effectively embody the chaotic essence of the family. Furthermore, Shacknews specifically highlights Kane Hodder's portrayal of Leatherface, commending its accuracy and quality, which further solidifies the game's connection to its cinematic roots. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are some areas where critics have pointed out potential shortcomings. TheSixthAxis mentions that voice chat is necessary to fully appreciate the game, which implies that the single-player experience may not be as engaging without the social interaction that comes from multiplayer communication. This could indicate a limitation in the voice acting's ability to stand alone in enhancing the experience, suggesting that the game may rely on player interaction to elevate the narrative and emotional impact. Additionally, while some critics noted the involvement of actors from the film series, Guardian's comment hints at a potential inconsistency in the quality of voice performances, as not all characters may have received the same level of attention. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a strong aspect of the game, contributing significantly to its immersive quality. The performances, particularly from notable actors like Edwin Neal and Kane Hodder, have been praised for their authenticity and effectiveness in bringing the characters to life. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and ComicBook emphasize that the solid voice work enhances the overall experience, suggesting that while there may be some limitations in terms of player interaction and consistency, the voice acting remains a highlight that enriches the game's horror atmosphere.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre suffers from serious technical issues across all platforms, overshadowing its potential fun. While some players report smooth experiences, critics highlight frequent crashes, bugs, and matchmaking problems on PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X. The overall consensus is that substantial fixes are needed to improve stability and gameplay enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The technical performance of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has garnered a mixed response across different gaming platforms, with some positives noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, MeuPlayStation praised the game for performing well without crashes or frame rate drops, suggesting a generally stable experience. Additionally, App Trigger found the game to be fine at launch, with only minor clipping issues. On the PC front, PC Invasion reported a smooth experience on a midrange gaming laptop and the Steam Deck, indicating that the game can perform well under certain conditions. GameGrin also highlighted a perfect experience with no connectivity or frame rate issues, suggesting that some players have had a positive technical experience. However, the negatives overshadow the positives for most critics across all platforms. On the PS5, BaziCenter and Everyeye.it pointed out significant technical issues, including bugs, crashes, and problems with interacting with the game environment. Gaming Nexus echoed these sentiments, mentioning matchmaking issues and network errors that need urgent attention. Critics on PC were similarly critical, with Gamereactor UK describing the game as riddled with "game-destroying bugs" and freezing issues. Windows Central also noted graphical and technical problems, including hitching and crashes, which detracted from the overall experience. Xbox Series X reviews reflected similar concerns, with CGMagazine and Slant Magazine both mentioning frame rate drops and network issues that impacted gameplay. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has the potential for enjoyable gameplay, its technical performance is marred by a range of issues across all platforms. Critics like Push Square and Noisy Pixel on PS5 highlighted the frustration stemming from latency and visual bugs, while PC reviewers like Hobby Consolas and Windows Central pointed out significant glitches and crashes. Xbox Series X reviews, such as those from Stevivor and Xbox Tavern, echoed these sentiments, indicating that performance issues like lag and bugs hinder the multiplayer experience. Collectively, these reviews suggest that while the game has its merits, the technical shortcomings significantly detract from its overall enjoyment, necessitating further updates and fixes to enhance stability and performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre boasts engaging character progression and exciting asymmetrical multiplayer, but critics warn of its limited replay value due to repetitive gameplay, a lack of map variety, and technical issues. While customization offers depth, many players may quickly lose interest due to its staleness and current content limitations. Future updates could help, but the game's long-term appeal remains in question.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre reveal some notable positives that contribute to its appeal among players. Critics like Gaming Nexus and PlaySense highlight the game's character progression systems, including skill trees and perks, which provide players with a sense of depth and customization. The asymmetrical multiplayer experience is praised by critics such as Noisy Pixel and TheXboxHub, who note that the different characters and their unique abilities foster experimentation and teamwork, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, Gameblog.fr mentions the random placement of key items and exits, which can create varied experiences across matches, suggesting that there are elements that can keep players engaged for a while. However, the reviews also point out significant negatives that hinder the game's long-term replayability. Many critics, including App Trigger and MeuPlayStation, express concerns about the game's repetitiveness and lack of variety in maps, characters, and gameplay modes. The limited number of maps—often cited as just three—leaves players with a sense of staleness, as noted by ComicBook and CGMagazine. Technical issues and a small player base, as mentioned by BaziCenter, also contribute to a diminished experience, affecting matchmaking and overall game longevity. Critics like Screen Rant emphasize that the limited content and shallow progression system may leave players feeling unmotivated to continue playing after initial rounds. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. While there are elements that promote engagement, such as character customization and the thrill of asymmetrical gameplay, many reviewers agree that the game suffers from a lack of content variety and repetitive mechanics. Critics like GameSpot and God is a Geek acknowledge that despite the potential for future updates and expansions, the current state of the game may not sustain a large player base or long-term interest. As a result, while some players may find enjoyment in the game's mechanics and character progression, the overall replay value appears to be limited by its current content offerings and gameplay variety.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding The Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game is a mix of appreciation for its unique take on the asymmetrical horror genre and recognition of its potential shortcomings. Many critics, such as PlayStation Universe and PCGamesN, highlight the game's ability to capture the essence of the original film, delivering a thrilling and immersive multiplayer experience. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and Shacknews praise the game's tense gameplay mechanics and atmosphere, noting that it effectively recreates the horror elements that fans of the franchise expect. Critics also mention the fun factor, particularly for multiplayer fans, with GameSpew and Gaming Nexus suggesting that the game offers an engaging gameplay loop that could be enhanced with future content updates. However, the game is not without its flaws. A significant number of reviewers, including MeuPlayStation and Push Square, point out the lack of content at launch, which detracts from the overall experience and replayability. Technical issues, such as matchmaking problems and bugs, are frequently mentioned, with critics like GamingBolt and Eurogamer expressing frustration over these aspects. Furthermore, several reviews indicate that the game could benefit from improved tutorials and a more varied gameplay experience, as highlighted by Everyeye.it and Hobby Consolas. The repetitive nature of the gameplay and limited map variety are also concerns raised by multiple critics, suggesting that the game may struggle to maintain player interest over time. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers a promising and enjoyable experience for fans of the asymmetrical horror genre, but it is hampered by technical issues and a lack of content that could hinder its long-term appeal. Reviewers like God is a Geek and GameSpot recognize the game's potential and hope for improvements in future updates, while others, like Gamereactor UK, express disappointment in its execution. Overall, while the game has a solid foundation and captures the film's essence effectively, it requires further development to truly shine in a competitive gaming landscape.

TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game showcases a thrilling take on asymmetrical horror, capturing the film's essence and offering engaging multiplayer fun, but it's plagued by launch content shortages, technical glitches, and repetitive gameplay. Critics praise its immersive experience and potential, yet caution that without significant updates and improvements, it risks losing player interest over time.

MONSTER

Reviews

94 reviews found

PC Invasion

Aug 14, 2023

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

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game successfully transforms the iconic franchise into a terrifying gaming experience that captures the essence of the films.

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GameSpot

Xbox Series X

Aug 14, 2023

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

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is praised as one of the year's scariest and best-designed experiences, setting a new standard for multiplayer horror games.

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Hooked Gamers

Sep 1, 2023

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

The game is praised for its immersive atmosphere, audio quality, and gameplay mechanics, but criticized for the lack of proper tutorials or offline player vs AI practice mode and limited map pool.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Aug 24, 2023

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

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a top-tier asymmetric multiplayer horror game that successfully captures the essence of the original film. Despite some technical issues, it delivers a terrifying and intense gaming experience that fans of the genre will appreciate.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Aug 21, 2023

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

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre delivers a nightmarish multiplayer experience with tense gameplay systems. Despite some technical issues, the game is fun and anxiety-inducing.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Aug 30, 2023

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

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre offers a thrilling asymmetrical horror experience with room for improvement in technical aspects and balancing. Despite some issues, the game provides a fun and engaging gameplay loop.

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COGconnected

Aug 14, 2023

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

The game is faithful to the source material, suspenseful, and a lot of fun. It has the potential to become a multiplayer staple with proper support.

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GameGrin

Aug 25, 2023

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

The game is described as great, with minimal or no negatives, and has the potential to become one of the greats in the asymmetrical horror genre.

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Gfinity