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The Vanishing of Ethan Carter

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter
Item: The Vanishing of Ethan Carter
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2014

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Horror, Open World, Artistic, Puzzle and Logic, Mystery, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 25, 2014

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperThe Astronauts

Overview

In The Vanishing of Ethan Carter, you play as Paul Prospero, an occult detective who receives a disturbing letter from Ethan Carter and realizes that the boy is in grave danger. When Paul arrives in Ethan's home of Red Creek Valley, he realizes things are even worse than he imagined. Ethan has vanished in the wake of a brutal murder, which Paul comes to see might not be the only murder to investigate. Using both regular and supernatural detective skills, Paul must figure out what happened to the missing boy.

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter impresses with its atmospheric storytelling and intriguing premise, as detective Paul Prospero delves into Ethan's mysterious disappearance. Critics praise its emotional depth and immersive environmental clues, but many lament its shallow execution, predictability, and lack of lasting impact. The game showcases potential but ultimately struggles with coherence and emotional resonance, leading to a divided reception among players and reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The narrative of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has garnered praise for its intriguing premise and atmospheric storytelling. Critics like DarkStation and GameSpot highlight the game's compelling narrative, emphasizing the engaging journey of detective Paul Prospero as he investigates the mysterious disappearance of Ethan Carter. The storytelling approach, which includes environmental clues and ghostly visions, is noted for immersing players in a rich, atmospheric experience. Reviewers such as Game Revolution and Adventure Gamers appreciate the emotional depth and poignant backstory that unfolds throughout the game, allowing players to connect with the themes of loss and tragedy. The unique blend of supernatural elements and human stories has also been commended, with critics like PC Gamer and Eurogamer praising the game's ability to evoke thought and reflection. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the narrative's execution. Slant Magazine criticizes the story for its shallow pessimism and lack of emotional depth, while Gaming Age describes it as vague and disjointed, failing to deliver on its promise of a narrative experience. IGN Spain echoes this sentiment, labeling the narrative as engaging yet limited and predictable. Many critics, including PCGamesN and Gamer.nl, feel that while the story starts strong, it ultimately lacks the emotional resonance and depth necessary to leave a lasting impact. The consensus among these critics suggests that while the game attempts to tackle profound themes, it often falls short in its execution, leading to a less satisfying experience. Overall, the critical reception of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter reflects a divided sentiment regarding its story. While many reviewers laud its atmospheric and engaging narrative, others express disappointment over its predictability and emotional depth. Critics such as GameStar and Metro GameCentral highlight the game's potential, praising its script and storytelling, yet others like PC Games and LaPS4 note that it fails to maintain tension and coherence throughout. This dichotomy illustrates that while the game offers a captivating premise and intriguing elements, it struggles with delivering a cohesive and emotionally resonant narrative, leaving players with mixed feelings about their overall experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter impresses with its immersive exploration and narrative-driven puzzle-solving, allowing players to reconstruct crime scenes at their own pace. Critics praise its non-linear gameplay for offering freedom and unique mechanics that enhance storytelling. However, many reviewers criticize the game for its repetitive and simplistic puzzles, minimal interaction, and lack of guidance, leading to tedious backtracking and frustration. Overall, while the game shines in narrative depth, it falls short in gameplay complexity, appealing mainly to fans of story-rich experiences rather than those seeking challenging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has garnered appreciation for its focus on exploration and narrative-driven puzzle-solving. Critics like Eurogamer and GameSpot highlight the game's ability to allow players to piece together clues and reconstruct crime scenes at their own pace, creating an immersive investigative experience. The non-linear gameplay, as noted by Polygon and Gaming Nexus, offers a sense of freedom that encourages thoughtful exploration without the constraints of traditional action mechanics. Additionally, some reviewers, such as MondoXbox and PSNStores, commend the unique mechanics that allow players to visualize past events, enhancing the narrative depth and engagement. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism for its repetitiveness and lack of depth. Reviewers like LevelUp and PC Games point out that the puzzles can feel simplistic and monotonous, leading to diminishing engagement over time. Critics such as Eurogamer Germany and Softpedia note that the minimal interaction and lack of guidance can result in tedious backtracking, which detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, the absence of challenging puzzles and the linear progression of the gameplay have left some players feeling constrained, as highlighted by Eurogamer Italy and Riot Pixels. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Vanishing of Ethan Carter offers a captivating narrative and an engaging exploration experience, it suffers from a lack of complexity and depth in its gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, including Game Rant and Digital Chumps, express that the simplistic nature of the puzzles and the minimal guidance can lead to frustration. This duality of appreciation for the game's immersive storytelling and criticism for its gameplay limitations creates a mixed reception, indicating that while the game may resonate with fans of narrative-driven experiences, it may not satisfy those seeking more challenging and varied gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about The Vanishing of Ethan Carter's stunning graphics and immersive rural landscapes, praising its use of photogrammetry for a visually rich experience. While the environments are lauded as some of the best in gaming, critiques arise over subpar character models and frame rate issues on PS4. Despite minor flaws, the game is hailed as a visual masterpiece that sets a high standard for indie titles, merging breathtaking visuals with deep emotional resonance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overwhelming consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter is one of admiration and praise. Many reviewers, including those from IGN Italia and GameStar, highlight the stunning visuals that capture the essence of rural American landscapes, particularly the autumn settings that contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and Kill Screen commend the use of photogrammetry technology, which creates incredibly realistic environments, enhancing the player's experience. The attention to detail in the landscapes, lighting, and textures is frequently mentioned, with PC Gamer and CalmDownTom describing the visuals as some of the best seen in contemporary gaming. The game’s ability to evoke emotions through its visuals, such as a sense of melancholy and eeriness, is also a recurring theme, with Gameplanet and Post Arcade noting how the environment infuses a haunting quality that complements the narrative. However, despite the widespread acclaim, some critics pointed out areas for improvement. Destructoid noted that while the scenery is sumptuous, character models and facial animations fall short of the high standards set by the environments. Additionally, several reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and VideoGamer, mentioned frame rate issues on the PS4 version, which detracted from the overall experience. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal also pointed out that while the visuals are impressive, certain areas, such as the mine, lack the same visual impact as other parts of the game. These criticisms suggest that while the environmental design excels, there are inconsistencies in the overall graphical fidelity, particularly concerning character representation and performance on various platforms. Overall, the critics' consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority considering the graphics and visual design of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter to be a masterpiece. The stunning environments, rich detail, and atmospheric effects create an immersive experience that resonates with players, as highlighted by critics from outlets like Digital Chumps and Gaming Age. The game is often described as one of the best-looking titles in its genre, with many reviewers stating that it sets a high benchmark for visual storytelling in video games. While there are some criticisms regarding character models and performance issues, these do not significantly detract from the overall appreciation of the game's artistic achievements. The combination of breathtaking visuals and emotional depth solidifies The Vanishing of Ethan Carter as a standout title in the realm of indie games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter is lauded for its outstanding sound design and music, enhancing the game's eerie atmosphere and emotional depth. Critics praise Mikolai Stroinski's haunting soundtrack and immersive ambient audio, although some note issues with voice acting and occasional forgettable music. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the audio as a standout feature that elevates the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

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 Vanishing of Ethan Carter have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising their ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and 3DJuegos highlighted the masterful integration of sound and music, describing them as melancholic and effective in building tension. The soundtrack, composed by Mikolai Stroinski, is frequently noted for its orchestral pieces and haunting melodies, which complement the game's beautiful yet eerie scenery. Critics such as Push Square and We Got This Covered emphasized how the soundtrack transitions seamlessly between scenes, enhancing immersion and emotional engagement. The ambient audio is also praised for its realism, with critics like PSNStores and COGconnected noting how it creates a captivating atmosphere that draws players into the game's world. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues with voice acting quality, with Game Rant and ZTGD mentioning that clunky dialogue and mixed performances can detract from immersion. Additionally, while many praised the sound design, IGN Spain described it as adequate but not particularly unique, suggesting that it fits the atmosphere without standing out. Adventure Gamers criticized the music as sparse and forgettable, indicating that it does not significantly contribute to the overall atmosphere. These mixed opinions on certain aspects of the sound design and voice acting highlight that while the music is generally well-received, there are elements that could have been executed better. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter. The majority of reviewers agree that the audio elements significantly enhance the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. Critics like CalmDownTom and Eurogamer Germany emphasized the exceptional quality of the sound design, which contributes to the immersive experience. Despite some criticisms regarding voice acting and occasional issues with dialogue, the general sentiment reflects a strong appreciation for the game's audio landscape, marking it as a standout feature that elevates the overall experience. The combination of atmospheric music and detailed sound design has left a lasting impression, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter sees mixed reviews on voice acting. Critics praise the protagonist Paul Prospero for adding depth, with standout performances enhancing the story. However, secondary characters fall flat, with some critics citing a lack of engagement and personality. Overall, while some voice performances shine, inconsistencies prevent the acting from fully elevating the game's narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has garnered a range of positive remarks from several critics, particularly highlighting the performance of the protagonist, Paul Prospero. Reviewers from 3DJuegos and Game Revolution specifically commend his portrayal, noting that it adds significant depth to the narrative and enhances the storytelling experience. Critics such as Windows Central and Adventure Gamers also express appreciation for the overall voice acting, describing it as outstanding and convincing, with some performances effectively capturing the game's atmosphere. The noirish intonation mentioned by Eurogamer further reinforces the idea that the voice acting aligns well with the game's thematic elements, contributing positively to the immersive experience. On the flip side, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting quality, particularly concerning secondary characters. Game Rant and Digital Chumps express disappointment, with the latter criticizing the performances of Ethan's family as particularly lacking. Critics like Gamer.nl and Hardcore Gamer echo this sentiment, suggesting that while some performances are strong, others do not meet the expected standards, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, Metro GameCentral points out that Prospero's character could benefit from more personality and dialogue, indicating that the voice acting at times feels insufficiently engaging. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment regarding the voice acting in The Vanishing of Ethan Carter. While several reviewers praise the strong performances of key characters, particularly Paul Prospero, others highlight inconsistencies and shortcomings in the performances of secondary characters. Critics like ZTGD and GamingTrend acknowledge the strengths while also pointing out areas for improvement, suggesting that the voice acting, though impactful in parts, does not uniformly elevate the game's narrative experience. This duality indicates that while the voice acting contributes positively to the atmosphere, it may not fully meet the expectations set by the game's overall quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has mixed technical performance across platforms. PS4 has stunning visuals but suffers from frame rate instability. Xbox One varies in performance, with better results on Xbox One X. PC runs well on moderate hardware but faces some technical glitches. Overall, despite flaws, critics agree the game is engaging and worth playing after updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has garnered a range of opinions across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, the PS4 version has received some praise for its visual fidelity, with critics like IGN Spain and LaPS4 noting that, despite initial stability issues, the game performs well overall after updates. Critics such as Gameblog.fr and Eurogamer Italy also highlight the introduction of invisible checkpoints, which enhance the gameplay experience. On Xbox One, the performance varies, with MondoXbox praising the Xbox One X for running smoothly, while ZTGD mentions that the game offers two modes, allowing players to choose between resolution and frame rate. On PC, several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and PC Gamer, commend the game for running smoothly on moderate hardware, with good performance reported even on less recent machines. However, the negatives cannot be overlooked. On PS4, many critics, including 3DJuegos and Metro GameCentral, point out significant frame rate instability, fluctuating between 30 and 60 fps, which can disrupt immersion. Game Revolution and Multiplayer.it also note performance issues like long load times and visual degradation in certain areas. The Xbox One version has its share of criticism as well, with Windows Central highlighting unstable frame rates and texture pop-in, particularly on the base model. On PC, while many reviews are positive, there are still mentions of technical issues, such as an unreliable auto-save system and occasional frame rate drops, as noted by Multiplayer.it and Gamer.no. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a generally positive reception of the game's technical performance across platforms. While the PS4 version faces notable frame rate issues, updates have improved the experience, and many agree that these do not significantly detract from the gameplay. The Xbox One version shows variability in performance, particularly between the standard and enhanced models, but still offers commendable graphics. On PC, despite some technical hiccups, the game is praised for its smooth performance on a range of hardware. Critics like IGN and SpazioGames encapsulate this sentiment, indicating that while there are flaws, the overall experience remains engaging and worthwhile for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter sparks mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise its intriguing world and unreliable narrator that could entice players back for a second look. However, many argue its short runtime (3-5 hours), linear narrative, and straightforward puzzles significantly limit its appeal for revisits. While some elements hint at exploration, the overall sentiment is that its brevity and lack of depth make replaying less rewarding, with critics ultimately concluding it offers few compelling reasons to return after the first playthrough.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

27%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter reveal a nuanced perspective among critics, with some highlighting the game's strengths that may encourage players to revisit it. Critics like Metro GameCentral and PSNStores note that the intriguing world and the desire to explore further can provide a surprising amount of replay value, suggesting that players may want to uncover missed details or experience the story from a different angle. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded points out the potential for multiple playthroughs due to the unreliable narrator, which can alter the player's perception of the story. This aspect, combined with the game's impressive visuals and compelling narrative, as mentioned by IGN, creates an engaging experience that some players may find worth revisiting. However, a significant portion of the reviews emphasizes the limitations of replay value in The Vanishing of Ethan Carter. Critics such as SpazioGames, GameWatcher, and Hardcore Gamer argue that the game is relatively short, typically lasting between three to five hours, which inherently limits the incentive to replay it. Many reviewers, including TheSixthAxis and GameOver.gr, note that the linear narrative structure and straightforward puzzles contribute to a lack of depth, making it feel less rewarding to return once the story has been completed. Furthermore, the potential for missing key moments, as highlighted by Kill Screen, can lead to frustration during subsequent playthroughs, further diminishing the desire to revisit the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a recognition of the limited replay value of The Vanishing of Ethan Carter, despite some acknowledging its potential for exploration and discovery. While certain aspects, such as the narrative depth and visual appeal, may entice players to return, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game's linearity and brevity significantly restrict its longevity. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Gamer.nl encapsulate this sentiment by stating that the game does not offer compelling reasons to revisit it after the initial experience. Thus, while there are elements that could encourage replayability, they are overshadowed by the game's inherent limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its visual presentation and atmospheric storytelling. Many reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and Eurogamer Spain, praised the game's stunning visuals and captivating atmosphere, noting that it creates an immersive experience that resonates with players who appreciate narrative depth. Critics like Game Informer and USgamer highlighted the game's unique approach to environmental storytelling, which they found to be a triumph in engaging players through exploration. Additionally, several reviews, including those from Attack of the Fanboy and DarkStation, emphasized the compelling mystery and emotional weight of the narrative, making it a noteworthy entry in the genre. However, the game is not without its drawbacks, as many critics pointed out significant issues that detracted from the overall experience. Slant Magazine and Xbox Tavern noted a lack of emotional engagement and gameplay depth, suggesting that the game often feels more like an art piece than a fully interactive experience. Critics like Gaming Age and PCGamesN echoed these sentiments, mentioning that the linear gameplay and limited player agency can lead to a sense of exhaustion or predictability. Furthermore, several reviews, including those from IGN and Digital Chumps, mentioned frustrating gameplay mechanics, such as poor puzzle design and save system issues, which hinder the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Vanishing of Ethan Carter is a visually stunning and narratively rich experience that is worth exploring, particularly for fans of atmospheric storytelling. While many reviewers, such as GameSpot and GRYOnline.pl, celebrated its artistic achievements and emotional depth, they also acknowledged the game's shortcomings in gameplay mechanics and replay value. The mixed reviews suggest that while the game may not appeal to everyone, it offers a unique experience that resonates well with those who prioritize narrative and atmosphere over traditional gameplay elements. Critics like CalmDownTom and GameCritics encapsulated this sentiment by calling it a "stunning achievement" that leaves a lasting impression, despite its flaws.

TL;DR

The Vanishing of Ethan Carter impresses with stunning visuals and deep atmospheric storytelling, earning praise for its unique environmental narrative. Critics celebrate its emotional weight but note significant gameplay flaws, including a lack of engagement and frustrating mechanics. While it's a compelling experience for fans of narrative depth, its linear gameplay and limited interactivity may leave others feeling underwhelmed. Overall, it's a striking artistic achievement that resonates with those who value atmosphere over traditional gameplay.

MONSTER

Reviews

146 reviews found

100

Post Arcade (National Post)

Nov 13, 2014