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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 5

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 receives positive reviews for its faithful homage to the 1974 film, with critics praising its immersive atmosphere and engaging multiplayer gameplay. However, the lack of a linear story mode disappoints some, as it limits narrative depth and connection to characters. While it excels in horror experience, fans seeking a rich, single-player story may feel let down.

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 faithfulness to the original 1974 film. Reviewers like App Trigger and Gameblog.fr highlight the game's gritty environment and homage to iconic locations from the film, creating an immersive atmosphere that resonates with fans of the horror genre. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and CGMagazine commend the game for capturing the essence of the original movie while expanding its lore, indicating a well-crafted narrative that enhances the gameplay experience. The multiplayer aspect, as noted by BaziCenter and Checkpoint Gaming, allows players to engage in intense matches as either survivors or members of the Sawyer family, adding depth and variety to the gameplay. However, several critics express concerns regarding the game's narrative structure. MeuPlayStation and Xbox Tavern point out the lack of a linear story mode, which may disappoint players seeking a more traditional single-player experience. Critics like Gaming Nexus and PlaySense mention that while the game offers interesting characters and backstory, it primarily focuses on multiplayer gameplay, potentially limiting the depth of storytelling. The absence of a comprehensive narrative arc could leave some players feeling disconnected from the characters and their motivations, as highlighted by the critiques of critics like TheSixthAxis and WellPlayed. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully pays tribute to the iconic film while providing a unique multiplayer experience. While the game excels in atmosphere and immersive gameplay, as noted by GameSpot and God is a Geek, the lack of a linear story mode and depth in narrative may alienate some players. Critics agree that the game captures the horror and tension of the original film, but its focus on multiplayer may prevent it from fully satisfying those looking for a richer, story-driven experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre delivers a thrilling asymmetrical multiplayer experience, praised for its intense gameplay and strategic depth. Critics highlight the engaging team dynamics and unique character abilities, but many also note issues with repetitiveness, balance, and matchmaking. While it captures horror effectively, the game needs refinement to overcome its flaws and keep players invested long-term.

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 various critics, particularly for its unique asymmetrical multiplayer format that pits three family members against four victims. Critics like BaziCenter and PlayStation Universe commend the game for its intense and challenging experiences, highlighting the strategic depth provided by the unique abilities of both killers and survivors. Gameblog.fr and Gaming Nexus also appreciate the well-balanced mechanics that allow for multiple escape routes and objectives, which contribute to a fresh gameplay experience. Furthermore, the game’s focus on teamwork and communication, as noted by Hobby Consolas and Guardian, enhances the overall engagement, making it appealing for players who enjoy cooperative play. However, the game is not without its drawbacks. Several critics have pointed out issues with repetitiveness and balance, with MeuPlayStation describing the gameplay as simple yet repetitive, and Gamereactor UK labeling it as messy and monotonous. Critics like GameSpew and Xbox Tavern express frustration with contextual actions and the potential for matches to feel drawn out and lacking variety. Additionally, concerns about matchmaking and the learning curve for new players were raised by Everyeye.it and Hobby Consolas, suggesting that the game could benefit from improved tutorials and balance adjustments to make it more accessible. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers a captivating yet flawed asymmetrical multiplayer experience. While many reviewers, including App Trigger and GameCrate, celebrate the unique character abilities and strategic gameplay, they also acknowledge the challenges of repetitiveness and balance that could hinder long-term enjoyment. The game successfully captures the essence of horror through its tense gameplay dynamics, as noted by Eurogamer and PCGamesN, but it may require further refinement to fully realize its potential and maintain player engagement over time.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre boasts a mixed reception for its graphics and visual design. Critics praise its immersive recreation of the film's iconic settings and chilling atmosphere, thanks to detailed maps and the use of Unreal Engine 4. However, shortcomings like cluttered environments, poor lighting, and technical glitches mar the experience. While it captures the film's essence, many reviewers note a lack of graphical polish and innovation, leaving it feeling underwhelming overall.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is mixed, with several positive aspects highlighted by critics. Many reviewers praised the game's ability to recreate the iconic settings and atmosphere of the original 1974 film. For instance, Gaming Nexus noted the detailed maps that faithfully reflect locations from the movie, enhancing immersion. Similarly, Eurogamer described the environments as "gorgeous," emphasizing the careful design that invites exploration. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Windows Central also commended the stunning environmental design, with the latter remarking on the meticulous crafting of maps that evoke the film's chilling essence. The game's use of the Unreal Engine 4 is acknowledged by Everyeye.it, which pointed out the chilling atmosphere and macabre details that contribute to the horror experience. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, as many critics pointed out various negative aspects of the graphics and visual design. BaziCenter criticized the cluttered environments and poor lighting, which detract from the user experience. Gameblog.fr echoed this sentiment by labeling the graphics and animations as subpar, despite acknowledging the level design's contribution to immersion. Furthermore, Gamereactor UK found the graphics to be cheesy and poorly animated, while Xbox Tavern described them as passable, indicating a lack of visual innovation. Technical issues such as graphical glitches and frame rate drops were also noted by several critics, including Hobby Consolas, who mentioned slowdowns during combat that detract from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics appears to be that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully captures the essence of the original film and features well-designed maps, it suffers from a lack of graphical polish and some technical issues. Many reviewers, such as GameGrin and ComicBook, pointed out that the graphics do not push the limits of the platforms, suggesting a missed opportunity for visual innovation. Despite these criticisms, the game’s ability to evoke a chilling atmosphere and replicate iconic locations has been recognized, leading to a generally favorable impression of its visual design, albeit with caveats regarding its execution and technical performance.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, praising its ability to immerse players in a terrifying experience, with the iconic chainsaw sound heightening tension. While most reviewers laud the craftsmanship and its homage to the original film, a few note a lack of innovation and gameplay mechanics that fall short, suggesting the audio excellence isn’t enough to mask some gameplay flaws. Overall, the sound design is celebrated as a standout feature, making the game a thrilling horror experience.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its meticulous craftsmanship and effectiveness in enhancing the gameplay experience. Reviewers from various platforms, including Everyeye.it and GameSpew, praised the sound design for its ability to evoke a genuine sense of terror, with the iconic chainsaw sound being a notable contributor to the game's tension. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Noisy Pixel emphasized how the game cleverly incorporates mechanics that build tension through sound, such as generating or avoiding loud noises, which significantly impacts gameplay. The haunting score and immersive sound effects were also commended by Gaming Nexus and COGconnected for capturing the essence of the original film, effectively transporting players back to its chilling atmosphere. Despite the overall acclaim, a few critics pointed out certain limitations within the sound design and music. For instance, while Xbox Tavern acknowledged the effective sound design, they noted a lack of innovation, suggesting that the audio elements mirror the intensity of the 1974 classic without introducing new ideas. Additionally, God is a Geek criticized the gameplay mechanics associated with Leatherface, implying that while the sound design is strong, it does not compensate for the character's perceived shortcomings in gameplay dynamics. This sentiment reflects a minor concern among some reviewers about the balance between sound design and gameplay functionality. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre are exemplary, significantly enhancing the horror experience and immersing players in the game’s atmosphere. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe and Windows Central highlighted how the sound elements contribute to a pulse-pounding experience, while others, such as GameSpot and Movies Games and Tech, noted the effective use of sound cues and ambient noise in building suspense. Overall, the majority of critics agree that the audio design is a standout feature of the game, with only a few voices suggesting areas for improvement, reinforcing the game's status as a compelling homage to its cinematic roots.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is largely praised for its authenticity and immersive quality, with standout performances from the Sawyer family and nostalgia from Edwin Neal's return as the Hitchhiker. Critics applaud Kane Hodder's portrayal of Leatherface and the overall atmosphere it creates. However, some concerns arise about the necessity of voice chat and inconsistent performance quality. Despite minor critiques, the voice work is a highlighted strength that successfully ties the game to its cinematic roots.

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 received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the authenticity and immersion it brings to the game. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe commend the superb capture of character voices, particularly praising the performances of the Sawyer family members and the victims, which enhance the overall atmosphere. Edwin Neal's reprisal of his role as the Hitchhiker from the original film, noted by Noisy Pixel, adds a nostalgic element that resonates well with fans of the franchise. Additionally, GameGrin emphasizes the "unhinged performances" of the family members, while Shacknews highlights Kane Hodder's portrayal of Leatherface, underscoring the accuracy and quality of his performance, which further solidifies the game's connection to its cinematic roots. Despite the overall praise, there are some critiques regarding the voice acting. While many characters are voiced by actors from the film series, as mentioned by Guardian, there is an implication that not all performances may reach the same level of excellence. The necessity of voice chat, pointed out by TheSixthAxis, suggests that while the pre-recorded voice acting is strong, the interactive elements of communication may be essential for fully experiencing the game. This reliance on voice chat could indicate that some players might find the scripted performances lacking in spontaneity or depth during gameplay. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre significantly contributes to the game’s immersive experience, with several reviewers highlighting the strong performances of key characters. Critics like ComicBook and Comicbook.com agree on the solid voice work that enhances the overall experience, reinforcing the positive sentiment surrounding the game's audio elements. While there are minor concerns regarding the necessity of voice chat and the varying quality of performances, the general outlook remains favorable, with the voice acting being a standout feature that captures the essence of the original film.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre faces mixed reviews across platforms, with the PS5 version praised for stability but criticized for bugs and matchmaking issues. The PC version shows potential on some systems but suffers from severe glitches. Xbox Series X also reports frame rate drops and network problems. Overall, technical shortcomings overshadow the game’s potential, leading to a frustrating experience for many players.

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 reception across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, several critics noted positive aspects of the game's performance. MeuPlayStation reported that the game performed well without crashes or frame rate drops, suggesting a stable experience. App Trigger also mentioned that the game was fine at launch, with only minor clipping issues. Similarly, Noisy Pixel acknowledged that while there were a few crashes and glitches, they did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the game. This indicates that, for some players, the PS5 version can deliver a satisfying experience. However, a significant number of reviews highlighted various technical issues affecting the PlayStation 5 version. BaziCenter pointed out that the game suffers from bugs and crashes that negatively impact player enjoyment. Everyeye.it raised concerns about interaction issues with the game environment and lengthy pre-game lobby times, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, critics like Gaming Nexus and PlaySense noted matchmaking issues and network errors, indicating that the multiplayer aspect of the game may not be as polished as expected. Push Square also mentioned latency issues and a clunky user interface, further emphasizing the technical shortcomings on this platform. When examining the PC version, the consensus among critics is similarly divided. On the positive side, PC Invasion noted that the game runs well on midrange gaming laptops and the Steam Deck, indicating that performance can be stable under certain conditions. GameGrin had a perfect experience with no connection or frame rate issues, which suggests that some players may enjoy a smooth experience. However, many reviews, such as those from Gamereactor UK and Windows Central, highlighted severe technical problems, including game-destroying bugs, crashes, and graphical glitches. The Xbox Series X version also faced criticism, with CGMagazine and Slant Magazine noting frame rate drops and network issues that hinder gameplay. Overall, critics across all platforms seem to agree that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has the potential for enjoyable gameplay, significant technical issues persist, affecting the experience for many players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers engaging customization and strategic gameplay, but critics warn its limited maps, repetitiveness, and lack of post-launch content hinder long-term replay value. While some elements promise replay potential, the overall sentiment is disappointment regarding its longevity, raising concerns about keeping players engaged over time.

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 highlight several positive aspects that may appeal to players. Critics like Gaming Nexus and PlayStation Universe praise the game for its character customization options, skill trees, and unique gameplay mechanics that encourage experimentation. Gameblog.fr notes that the random placement of key items and exits can provide a fresh experience in each match, while Noisy Pixel emphasizes the potential for teamwork and strategic gameplay, which can enhance the overall enjoyment. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GameSpot and Movies Games and Tech, highlight the game's rewarding gameplay loop and the feeling that no two playthroughs are the same, suggesting that there is a foundation for replayability that could be built upon. However, the consensus among many critics points to significant drawbacks that hinder the game's long-term replay value. Critics like App Trigger and MeuPlayStation express concerns about the game's repetitiveness and predictability, citing a lack of variety in maps, characters, and gameplay modes. BaziCenter and Push Square echo these sentiments, noting that technical issues and a limited player base may further affect the game's longevity. The limited number of maps—often cited as only three—has been a recurring criticism, with multiple reviewers such as ComicBook and CGMagazine highlighting how this can lead to a stale experience after a few rounds. Furthermore, the absence of substantial post-launch content and updates raises concerns about the game's ability to retain players over time. Overall, while there are elements of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre that can provide replay value, the prevailing sentiment among critics leans towards disappointment regarding its longevity. Many reviewers, including Everyeye.it and Screen Rant, suggest that the repetitive nature of the gameplay, combined with limited content and variety, may deter players from returning for extended play sessions. Critics like Gfinity and PCGamesN acknowledge some replay potential through character builds and unique mechanics, but the overarching theme is that without significant updates or expansions, the game may struggle to maintain a dedicated player base. In summary, while the game has a solid foundation, it faces challenges that could limit its appeal in the long run.

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 Texas Chain Saw Massacre has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, primarily praising its ability to capture the essence of the original film and deliver an engaging horror experience. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe and Shacknews highlighted the game as a top-tier asymmetrical multiplayer horror title, commending its thrilling atmosphere and intense gameplay mechanics. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and PCGamesN appreciated the game's ability to provide a nightmarish multiplayer experience, indicating that it successfully immerses players in the horror genre. Additionally, several reviewers noted the game's potential for growth, suggesting that with proper updates and content additions, it could become a staple in the asymmetrical horror genre, as pointed out by COGconnected and God is a Geek. However, the game is not without its flaws, with many critics voicing concerns about technical issues, lack of content, and gameplay variety. App Trigger and MeuPlayStation noted that the game feels somewhat bare at launch, which may deter casual players or those not deeply invested in the franchise. Critics like Gamereactor UK and Push Square criticized the game for being unoriginal and buggy, leading to a frustrating experience for some. The lack of tutorials and matchmaking issues were also common points of contention, as highlighted by Eurogamer and GameSpew, which could hinder the overall enjoyment and accessibility of the game for new players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a promising entry in the asymmetrical horror genre, with a strong foundation built on its homage to the classic film. While many reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and GameSpot, found the core gameplay enjoyable and engaging, they also emphasized the need for improvements in technical aspects, content variety, and matchmaking systems. The game is recommended for fans of the horror genre, particularly those who appreciate multiplayer experiences, but it may require further updates to fully realize its potential and maintain player interest over time.

TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game is a thrilling homage to the original film, praised for its intense multiplayer horror experience and potential for growth. Critics highlight its engaging gameplay but point out technical issues, lack of content, and matchmaking flaws that could frustrate casual players. While it's a solid choice for horror fans, it needs updates to fully tap into its potential in the genre.

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