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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

PlatformXbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4, 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 game earns praise for its homage to the 1974 film, delivering an immersive multiplayer experience and rich lore about the Sawyer family. However, it falters with no linear story mode and limited single-player content, leaving some fans craving deeper narrative elements. Critics appreciate its terror-filled atmosphere but question its long-term appeal due to a lack of franchise depth.

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 reviews for The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game highlight several positives, particularly in how it pays homage to the original 1974 film. Critics like App Trigger and Gameblog.fr commend the game for its gritty environment and iconic locations that evoke the atmosphere of the classic horror movie. BaziCenter and Everyeye.it emphasize the immersive experience of playing as either survivors or killers, noting the tension created in these asymmetrical multiplayer matches. Additionally, Gaming Nexus and PlaySense point out that the game acts as a prequel, adding depth to the gameplay by allowing players to explore the backstory of the Sawyer family and their gruesome antics. This focus on lore and character dynamics is praised across multiple reviews, with CGMagazine calling it a "well-written love letter" to the film. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's structure and narrative depth. MeuPlayStation and Xbox Tavern express disappointment over the lack of a linear story mode, indicating that the game primarily focuses on multiplayer gameplay without a substantial single-player experience. Critics like Noisy Pixel and PlaySense also mention that while the game captures the essence of the original film, it lacks certain franchise elements that could have enriched the experience. Furthermore, TheSixthAxis points out that the game is not strictly bound to the film's storyline, which may limit the potential for future content and narrative development. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully captures the spirit and aesthetic of the 1974 classic while delivering an engaging multiplayer experience. However, the absence of a comprehensive single-player campaign and a more linear story mode leaves some players wanting more. Critics like GameSpot and God is a Geek appreciate the game's ability to transpose the film's terror into a modern context, but many agree that the focus on multiplayer gameplay may detract from the depth and narrative richness that fans of the franchise might expect. Thus, while the game is a commendable adaptation, it also raises questions about its long-term appeal and narrative potential.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre impresses with its unique 3 vs. 4 asymmetrical multiplayer, offering thrilling gameplay and diverse character abilities, according to critics. However, it faces criticisms for simplicity, repetitive mechanics, and technical issues like matchmaking problems and lag. While it shines in the horror genre, it needs improvements to address balance and enhance player experience.

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 variety of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its unique asymmetrical multiplayer format. Reviewers like BaziCenter and PlayStation Universe highlight the engaging 3 vs. 4 setup, which offers intense and challenging experiences for both killers and survivors. Critics such as App Trigger and Eurogamer appreciate the distinct abilities assigned to each character, which add depth and strategic elements to the gameplay. The ability to choose between playing as the Sawyer family or the victims, as noted by Gameblog.fr and CGMagazine, allows for varied playstyles and keeps the experience fresh. Many reviewers also commend the game's focus on stealth and teamwork, which enhances the tension and excitement during matches. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers, including MeuPlayStation and Gamereactor UK, point out that the gameplay can feel simple and repetitive, with predetermined escape routes limiting strategic options for survivors. Additionally, issues with matchmaking and balance, as noted by Everyeye.it, can detract from the overall experience. Critics like Xbox Tavern express concerns about the diminishing intensity of encounters over time, suggesting that the gameplay can become monotonous. Laggy connections and disconnects, mentioned by Stevivor, further complicate the experience, potentially frustrating players during critical moments. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre offers a compelling and engaging gameplay experience with its asymmetrical mechanics and unique character abilities, it also faces significant challenges related to balance, repetition, and technical issues. Reviewers like PCGamesN and Wccftech appreciate the varied gameplay mechanics and replayability, but many also echo the sentiment that the game could benefit from enhancements to address its shortcomings. As a result, the game stands out in the asymmetrical horror genre but may require further refinement to fully capitalize on its potential.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre impresses with its chilling atmosphere and detailed environments, effectively capturing the essence of the 1974 film. However, critics note the graphics don't fully leverage modern hardware, with issues like subpar animations, frame rate drops, and glitches detracting from the experience. While it excels in immersion, it falls short of being visually groundbreaking, leaving room for improvement in technical performance and aesthetic diversity.

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 garnered a mix of praise, particularly for their ability to evoke the atmosphere of the original 1974 film. Critics like Everyeye.it and Gaming Nexus highlight the game's chilling ambiance, with detailed maps that faithfully recreate iconic locations from the movie. The use of Unreal Engine 4 has been noted for its capacity to create macabre details that enhance immersion, as mentioned by Everyeye.it. Eurogamer and Windows Central also commend the meticulous crafting of maps, suggesting that the environments are not only visually appealing but also contribute significantly to the horror experience. Additionally, the thematic presentation and environmental design have been described as stunning by PlayStation Universe, further emphasizing the game's ability to capture the essence of its source material. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Many critics point out that while the graphics are serviceable, they do not push the limits of current-generation hardware, as noted by ComicBook and GameSkinny. Some reviewers, like Gameblog.fr and Gamereactor UK, criticize the animations and overall graphical quality as being subpar or cheesy, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, technical issues such as frame rate drops and graphical glitches have been mentioned by multiple reviewers, including PlaySense and Hobby Consolas, indicating that the visual performance may not be as polished as expected for a title leveraging modern technology. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre successfully captures the horror and atmosphere of the original film through its detailed environments and thematic design. However, the game falls short in delivering a visually innovative experience, with many reviewers noting that the graphics, while effective, are not groundbreaking. Critics like Game Rant and Shacknews appreciate the attention to detail in map design but also echo concerns about the lack of aesthetic diversity and technical issues that may hinder the gaming experience. In summary, while the game excels in creating an immersive horror atmosphere, it struggles with certain graphical limitations that prevent it from fully realizing its potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, praising its detail and tension that mirror the original film. The terrifying chainsaw sound and immersive audio cues enhance gameplay, creating a gripping horror experience. While a few voices suggest a lack of innovation and critique Leatherface's portrayal, the overall consensus highlights that the sound design is integral to the game's success and emotional impact.

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, who commend the meticulous attention to detail and the ability to evoke a sense of horror and tension reminiscent of the original film. Critics such as Everyeye.it highlight how the sound design enhances the gameplay experience, while GameSpew describes the chainsaw sound as genuinely terrifying, adding to the overall tension. Gaming Nexus emphasizes the importance of audio cues, such as Leatherface's chainsaw, which are crucial for gameplay success. Other reviewers, like Noisy Pixel and PlayStation Universe, praise the build-up music and sound effects that create an immersive atmosphere, contributing significantly to the game's horror elements. The consensus across various platforms is that the sound design is not only well-executed but also integral to the emotional impact of the game. Despite the largely favorable reviews, a few critics pointed out some shortcomings within the sound design. Xbox Tavern noted that while the soundtrack and ambience effectively mirror the intensity of the original 1974 classic, there is a lack of innovation in the sound design. Similarly, God is a Geek critiqued Leatherface's portrayal, suggesting that the character's slow movements detract from the effectiveness of the chainsaw's menacing sound. While these criticisms are not widespread, they indicate that some players may find aspects of the audio experience lacking in originality or impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre excels in its sound design and music, successfully capturing the essence of the horror genre and enhancing the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including GamingBolt and Windows Central, emphasize the immersive quality of the audio, which is pivotal in building tension and atmosphere. While there are minor critiques regarding innovation and character effectiveness, they do not overshadow the general acclaim for the game's audio achievements. Critics agree that the sound design plays a crucial role in delivering a gripping horror experience that resonates with fans of the original film.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has been widely praised for its authenticity and immersive quality, especially with Edwin Neal reprising his role as the Hitchhiker and Kane Hodder as Leatherface. Critics highlight the intense performances that enhance the game's chilling atmosphere, though some note that effective use of player voice chat is crucial for full immersion. Minor concerns about consistency in voice quality exist, but overall, the voice work is a standout feature that elevates the gaming experience for fans and newcomers alike.

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 significant praise from various critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's overall atmosphere and immersion. Notably, Edwin Neal's reprisal of his role as the Hitchhiker from the original film, as noted by Noisy Pixel, adds a layer of authenticity that fans of the franchise will appreciate. PlayStation Universe commends the superb capture of the voice acting for both the Sawyer family members and their victims, emphasizing how it enhances the game's immersive experience. GameGrin echoes this sentiment, describing the performances as "unhinged," which effectively conveys the chaotic and terrifying essence of the characters. Additionally, Kane Hodder's portrayal of Leatherface has received specific praise from Shacknews for its accuracy and quality, further solidifying the game's strong voice acting foundation. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are some nuances worth noting. While several critics highlight the quality of the voice acting, there is a mention from TheSixthAxis that voice chat is essential to fully appreciate the game's dynamics. This suggests that while the pre-recorded performances are strong, the reliance on player communication might indicate a limitation in the game's narrative delivery. Furthermore, Guardian's comment about some characters being voiced by actors from the film series hints at a potential inconsistency in voice quality, as not all performances may meet the high standards set by the original cast members. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a standout feature that significantly enhances the gaming experience. The combination of returning actors, such as Edwin Neal and Kane Hodder, along with the intense performances from the cast, creates a chilling atmosphere that resonates well with both fans and newcomers. Critics like ComicBook and Comicbook.com agree that the solid voice work contributes positively to the overall experience, reinforcing the game's authenticity and immersive qualities. While there are minor caveats regarding the necessity of voice chat and potential variances in performance quality, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable towards the voice acting in this title.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TL;DR: "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" showcases mixed technical performance. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions shine with solid frame rates and minor issues, they still encounter major bugs and matchmaking woes. The PC version is heavily criticized for game-breaking bugs and crashes. Overall, despite some strengths, significant technical issues across all platforms raise concerns about stability and user experience, suggesting major updates are needed for improvement.

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 received a mixed reception across various platforms, with notable positives especially on the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics like MeuPlayStation praised the PS5 version for its solid performance, reporting no crashes or frame rate drops, while GameSkinny highlighted that the Xbox Series X version managed to run at a stable 60 frames per second. Additionally, App Trigger noted that the game was fine at launch, with only minor clipping issues. On PC, PC Invasion reported good performance on midrange setups and the Steam Deck, suggesting that the game can run well under certain conditions. However, the negatives are quite pronounced across all platforms. On PS5, BaziCenter and Gaming Nexus pointed out significant technical issues, including bugs, crashes, and matchmaking problems, which detracted from the overall experience. Critics like Push Square echoed these sentiments, mentioning latency issues, visual bugs, and long lobby wait times. The PC version faced even harsher criticism, with Gamereactor UK describing it as riddled with game-destroying bugs and crashes, while Windows Central highlighted graphical and technical problems that hindered gameplay. The Xbox Series X version also suffered from frame rate drops and connection issues, as noted by Slant Magazine and Stevivor, which could lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while there are some commendable aspects of the game's technical performance, particularly on PS5 and Xbox Series X, the issues are significant enough to warrant concern. Critics across the board have noted that the game suffers from a variety of technical problems, including matchmaking difficulties, bugs, and performance inconsistencies. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has potential, it may require substantial updates and fixes to reach a level of stability and enjoyment that players expect.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics see potential in The Texas Chain Saw Massacre for engaging gameplay through character progression and teamwork, but many highlight flaws that limit replayability, like monotonous maps, technical issues, and repetitive gameplay. While hardcore fans may find value, casual players could be deterred by the game's current content limitations. Future updates could improve the experience, but right now, it falls short for long-term engagement.

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 of critics regarding the replay value of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre reveal some notable positives that highlight the game's potential for engaging gameplay. Several reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and PlayStation Universe, praised the game's character progression systems, including skill trees and unlockable perks, which add depth and encourage players to experiment with different builds. Critics like Noisy Pixel and WellPlayed emphasized the importance of teamwork and the thrill of asymmetrical gameplay, suggesting that these elements can lead to varied experiences across matches. Additionally, GameSpot noted the rewarding gameplay loop and character customization options, which contribute to a sense of longevity and replay value for dedicated players. However, a significant number of critics pointed out several drawbacks that hinder the game's replayability. App Trigger and MeuPlayStation highlighted the monotony that can set in due to a lack of variety in maps, characters, and game modes, with some reviewers like Push Square and ComicBook echoing concerns about the limited number of maps available at launch. Technical issues and a small player base, as mentioned by BaziCenter and Eurogamer, further exacerbate the game's longevity problems, leading to frustrating experiences such as long queue times. Critics like Screen Rant and CGMagazine also noted that the repetitive nature of gameplay and minimal content updates could lead to a stale experience over time. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to lean towards a cautious optimism tempered by significant concerns. While there are elements that can enhance replayability, such as character customization and strategic gameplay, many reviewers agree that the game's limited content and repetitive mechanics may deter long-term engagement. Critics like GameCrate and Gfinity acknowledged the potential for future updates to improve the experience, but the current state of the game leaves much to be desired in terms of variety and depth. As it stands, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre may appeal to hardcore fans of the horror genre, but its replay value is likely to be limited for casual players unless substantial content updates are introduced.

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 is one of cautious optimism, with several reviewers praising its immersive atmosphere and ability to capture the essence of the iconic horror film. Critics like PlayStation Universe and PCGamesN highlight the game's thrilling asymmetrical multiplayer experience, noting that it offers a unique twist on the genre. Many reviewers, including Noisy Pixel and Shacknews, commend the tense gameplay mechanics and the game's homage to the classic film, suggesting that it has the potential to become a staple in the asymmetrical horror genre. Additionally, some critics, such as GameSpot and GGRecon, regard it as one of the year's standout horror experiences, emphasizing its fun factor, especially when played with friends. However, the game is not without its flaws, which several reviewers have pointed out. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Gamereactor UK express concerns about the game's repetitiveness, limited content, and technical issues, which detract from the overall experience. Matchmaking problems and a lack of tutorials are recurring themes in the reviews, with Eurogamer and GameSpew noting that these issues can hinder player enjoyment and accessibility. Furthermore, some critics, such as Push Square and Hobby Consolas, mention that the game feels somewhat bare in terms of content and lacks the depth necessary for long-term engagement, leaving players wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Texas Chain Saw Massacre has a solid foundation and an engaging premise, it suffers from notable shortcomings that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Many reviewers, including App Trigger and Gameblog.fr, suggest that the game may improve over time with additional content and updates. The sentiment leans towards a recommendation for fans of the genre, particularly those who appreciate asymmetrical multiplayer horror, but with the caveat that the game currently has room for improvement in various aspects. As such, it stands as a promising entry into the genre, albeit one that requires further development to truly shine.

TL;DR

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre garners cautious optimism from reviewers, who praise its immersive atmosphere, thrilling asymmetrical multiplayer, and homage to the classic film. Critics highlight its potential as a standout in the horror genre, especially for friends seeking fun. However, flaws like repetitiveness, matchmaking issues, and limited content hinder the experience. While it has a solid foundation, many believe it needs further updates and content to fully realize its potential. Overall, it’s recommended for genre fans but comes with a warning of current shortcomings.

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