Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Tom Clancy's The Division

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tom Clancy's The Division
Item: Tom Clancy's The Division
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2016

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Thriller, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 8, 2016

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One

DeveloperMassive Entertainment

Overview

After a deadly pandemic sweeps through New York, it's up to Agents to save what remains. Complete missions, explore the Dark Zone, and fight back enemy factions alone or with 3 friends. Experience a full endgame offering you new PvP and PvE modes.

Elsewhere

7.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Story of Tom Clancy's The Division has garnered mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its engaging premise and immersive post-apocalyptic setting. Critics like GameCrate and New York Daily News appreciate the intriguing storyline centered around a deadly virus outbreak in New York City, where players take on the role of Division agents tasked with restoring order amidst chaos. The concept of a weaponized smallpox epidemic, as highlighted by God is a Geek, adds an exciting and unique backdrop to the game's narrative. Additionally, the detailed environmental storytelling, as mentioned by High-Def Digest and Softpedia, contributes to the dark and immersive atmosphere of the game. On the flip side, several critics express disappointment in the story's execution, citing forgettable narrative elements and lack of depth. Gaming Age and IGN Denmark point out the narrative's shortcomings, with the former describing it as lacking in depth and the latter mentioning the absence of compelling reasons to invest in the world or characters. Critics like Polygon and PC Gamer criticize the underdeveloped story and easily ignorable narrative elements, highlighting a missed opportunity for more engaging storytelling. The lack of character development and memorable enemies, as noted by The Escapist and ICXM, further detracts from the overall impact of the narrative. Overall, the opinions on the Story of Tom Clancy's The Division are divided, with some critics praising its engaging premise and immersive setting, while others criticize its lack of depth and forgettable narrative elements. The game succeeds in creating a compelling post-apocalyptic world, with standout moments in missions and environmental storytelling that draw players into the chaos of a virus-ravaged New York City. However, the narrative falls short in delivering a cohesive and memorable story, with many critics pointing out the lack of character development and narrative depth. Despite its flaws, The Division manages to offer an intriguing premise and immersive setting that keeps players engaged, albeit with room for improvement in storytelling execution, as highlighted by various critics' opinions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on The Division's story, praising its engaging premise and post-apocalyptic setting but criticizing its lack of depth and forgettable elements. The game excels in creating a compelling world with immersive storytelling, but falls short in character development and narrative coherence. Overall, The Division offers an intriguing experience with room for improvement in storytelling execution.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

60%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Tom Clancy's The Division are varied, with several positive aspects highlighted. ActionTrip praises the tactical gameplay and the fun and strategic experience of playing with friends. Cheat Code Central appreciates the thrill of new gear adding challenge to combat, while Digitally Downloaded and GameCrate commend the tactical shooting mechanics and deep progression system. Gameplanet and God is a Geek mention the rewarding tactical thinking required in the game, and Push Square emphasizes the importance of cover-based shooting mechanics for survival. On the negative side, some critics express concerns about the gameplay. Gaming Age criticizes the repetitive focus on numbers and gear rather than skill-based mechanics, while The Jimquisition and Metro GameCentral find the gameplay dull and repetitive, especially for solo players. IGN Spain and TheSixthAxis point out weaknesses in enemy AI intelligence and lack of variety in boss battles, impacting the overall experience for players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive aspects of The Division's gameplay. Critics like Game Rant and ICXM appreciate the mix of shooter and RPG mechanics, providing intense combat scenarios and exhilarating moments. Worth Playing and Xbox Achievements highlight the solid core gameplay and tactical cover shooter experience, with challenges that enhance the gameplay. While there are criticisms regarding repetition and lack of depth in some areas, the majority of critics acknowledge the engaging tactical elements, cooperative opportunities, and diverse gameplay options that make Tom Clancy's The Division an enjoyable experience for players seeking a blend of shooter and RPG mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise The Division for its tactical gameplay and cooperative fun with friends, but some express concerns about repetitive mechanics and lack of depth. Overall, the game is lauded for its mix of shooter and RPG elements, offering intense combat and engaging tactical challenges for players.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Tom Clancy's The Division, highlighting various positive aspects. ActionTrip commended the stunning open world with dynamic time and weather changes, while Cheat Code Central appreciated the improved lighting effects and lifelike character designs. Gaming Nexus and The Jimquisition both lauded the lovingly recreated New York City, with attention to detail in both above and below street level areas. The SixthAxis also noted the impressive graphics with detailed environments, lighting, weather effects, and thematic decayed beauty. Additionally, We Got This Covered and High-Def Digest highlighted the fidelity of the post-apocalyptic New York setting, with stunning visuals, great lighting, and weather effects adding to the immersive experience. On the other hand, some critics did mention a few negatives regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of The Division. Gaming Age expressed a mixed opinion, describing the graphics as falling between repulsive and wonderful, with the reviewer not fully appreciating the micro detail due to rushed gameplay. Impulsegamer noted occasional texture loading issues and frame drops on the PS4, while Polygon criticized the level design for becoming overly simplistic later in the game. Softpedia mentioned that while the game captures the post-apocalyptic atmosphere effectively, the enemy design felt unimaginative, slightly detracting from the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans heavily towards positive feedback on the Graphics and Visual Design of Tom Clancy's The Division. The majority of reviewers found the game to be visually impressive, with detailed environments, realistic weather effects, and a faithful recreation of a post-apocalyptic New York City. Despite some minor issues like graphical glitches and occasional texture problems, the overall sentiment is that the game excels in creating an immersive and atmospheric world for players to explore. Critics like The Digital Fix and Worth Playing praised the stunning representation of the snowy, post-crisis New York City, while PC Gamer highlighted the beautifully rendered open world with impressive post-processing and weather effects. In conclusion, the Graphics and Visual Design of The Division received high acclaim from critics, establishing it as a standout feature of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics overwhelmingly praised the stunning graphics and visual design of Tom Clancy's The Division, highlighting its detailed environments, realistic weather effects, and faithful recreation of a post-apocalyptic New York City. Some minor issues were noted, but the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers lauding the game's immersive and atmospheric world.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Tom Clancy's The Division are quite varied, with a mix of positive and negative feedback. Many critics praised the sound design for its immersive qualities and detailed audio effects. Critics like Brash Games and The Digital Fix highlighted the strong sound design that effectively immersed players in the game world through detailed audio effects, voice acting, and gunfire sounds. Additionally, critics such as Game Rant and High-Def Digest commended the game for its brilliant sound system that enhanced the overall gameplay experience, especially when played with headphones or surround sound. The ambient music was also lauded by CGMagazine and PLAY! Zine for creating a hauntingly immersive experience that added to the atmosphere of the game. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design and music of The Division. Gaming Age criticized the sound design and art direction for being mostly average and lacking consistency in quality. They mentioned that these aspects fell flat and did not meet expectations. Worth Playing on PC also noted that while the overall sound design was good, there were noticeable repetitions in lines of dialogue, which could detract from the immersive experience. Additionally, Impulsegamer mentioned that while the audio was solid with robust gunfire and explosions, the dialogue could be repetitive, indicating a potential flaw in the overall sound experience. Overall, despite some criticisms, the general consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Tom Clancy's The Division were well-received. The majority of critics appreciated the immersive qualities of the sound design, including detailed audio effects, voice acting, and ambient music that complemented the game's atmosphere. Critics like Digitally Downloaded, Game Rant, and The Digital Fix praised the superb sound design that enhanced the gameplay experience and immersed players in the game world effectively. While there were some criticisms regarding inconsistencies in quality and repetitive dialogue, the overall sentiment leans towards the positive, with the sound design and music being considered as strengths of the game by the majority of reviewers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Sound Design and Music of Tom Clancy's The Division. Some praised the immersive qualities, detailed audio effects, and brilliant sound system that enhanced gameplay. However, others criticized the lack of consistency in quality and repetitive dialogue. Overall, most critics appreciated the immersive sound design and music, making them strengths of the game despite some flaws.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Tom Clancy's The Division has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Cheat Code Central commends the main NPCs for delivering wonderful performances with theatrical facial expressions and vocal delivery. We Got This Covered also praises the voice acting, highlighting great dialogue and delivery that brings truly entertaining characters to life. Brash Games and Worth Playing on Xbox One both appreciate the emotive and believable voice work that enhances the overall gaming experience. On the other hand, VideoGamer criticizes the voice acting for the support team, noting that it sounds like impersonations of the Jersey Shore cast rather than authentic New Yorkers. Worth Playing on PC mentions noticeable repetition in lines from villains and allies despite overall well-done New York accents in the voice work. This inconsistency in the quality of voice acting, especially in portraying authenticity, seems to be a point of contention among critics. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side regarding the voice acting in Tom Clancy's The Division. The majority of reviewers appreciate the immersive experience created by the voice performances, with standout characters and engaging dialogue mentioned by critics like We Got This Covered and Brash Games. While there are some criticisms regarding authenticity and repetition, the overall sentiment is that the voice acting adds personality and depth to the game, enhancing the storytelling and gameplay experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Tom Clancy's The Division. Some praise the main NPCs for their wonderful performances, while others criticize the support team's accents as lacking authenticity. Overall, the majority of reviewers find the voice acting immersive and engaging, enhancing the game's storytelling and gameplay experience.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

16%

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

The technical performance of Tom Clancy's The Division on the PS4 received mixed reviews from critics. GameCrate and VideoGamer praised the stability and smooth experience on the platform, with only minor issues like occasional disconnects and graphical glitches mentioned. However, Gaming Age heavily criticized the PS4 version for poor online infrastructure, netcode issues, and various bugs affecting gameplay, such as frequent disconnects and lag. Critics like Metro GameCentral and New York Daily News noted some graphical bugs and occasional technical hiccups but overall found the game to deliver a fluid experience on the PS4. On the Xbox One, critics had a more positive outlook on the technical performance of The Division. Brash Games and Worth Playing highlighted the stable performance with only minor issues like laggy texture load-ins and occasional disconnects. However, ICXM raised concerns about major technical issues like frame rate stutters and input lag impacting the overall experience. RPG Site also mentioned texture issues on consoles but overall found the game to perform well on the Xbox One. Across all platforms, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of The Division is somewhat divided. While some, like GameCrate and Attack of the Fanboy, praised the stability and smooth performance on various platforms, others, such as CGMagazine and GRYOnline.pl, pointed out numerous bugs, connection problems, and graphical glitches that affected the overall experience. Worth Playing's positive feedback on the seamless multiplayer experience on PC contrasts with Gaming Age's criticism of poor online infrastructure on PS4. Overall, the technical performance of The Division seems to vary depending on the platform, with some experiencing smoother gameplay than others.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed reviews on the technical performance of Tom Clancy's The Division across different platforms. PS4 faced criticism for poor online infrastructure and bugs, while Xbox One received more positive feedback despite some technical issues. Overall, opinions varied on stability and smoothness, with some praising seamless experiences and others highlighting bugs and connection problems.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Tom Clancy's The Division are varied, with several positive aspects highlighted. Critics like ActionTrip, Gameplanet, and God is a Geek praise the game for its rewarding loot cycle, progression systems, and a variety of missions that encourage players to replay endgame content for new gear sets and weapons. The Dark Zone, mentioned by Cheat Code Central, Metro GameCentral, and Push Square, adds an element of unpredictability and excitement to the gameplay experience, enhancing the overall replay value. Additionally, the cooperative play aspect, as noted by JeuxActu and TheSixthAxis, provides a compelling reason for players to engage with the game repeatedly. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the repetitive nature of the gameplay loop and lack of depth in mechanics affecting the game's replayability. Gaming Age and Polygon highlight the repetitive missions and lack of diverse loot and customization options as potential downsides that may limit long-term engagement. NZGamer and PC Gamer also mention the game becoming tedious and lacking variety in tasks and enemy encounters, impacting the overall replay value. Additionally, Slant Magazine criticizes the Dark Zone for feeling unnecessary and unrewarding, which could deter players from engaging with that aspect of the game. Overall, while there are mixed opinions on the replay value of Tom Clancy's The Division, the consensus among critics leans towards the game offering a compelling experience with its variety of missions, loot systems, and cooperative gameplay elements. The Dark Zone, in particular, stands out as a key feature that adds depth and excitement to the overall experience, as highlighted by critics like IGN Denmark and Worth Playing. Despite some concerns about repetition and lack of depth in certain areas, the game's potential for engaging multiplayer encounters and ongoing content updates, as noted by Worth Playing, CGMagazine, and PC Gamer, contribute to its overall positive reception among critics.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Tom Clancy's The Division. Positive aspects like rewarding loot, varied missions, and the exciting Dark Zone enhance replayability, according to some reviewers. However, concerns about repetitive gameplay and lack of depth in mechanics are raised by others. Overall, the game offers a compelling experience with engaging multiplayer elements, despite some drawbacks.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

26%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics generally praised Tom Clancy's The Division for its immersive world, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, addictive multiplayer experience, and potential for creating a dedicated player community. Critics like Worth Playing highlighted the game's solid RPG elements, detailed open world, and tactical shooter mechanics, while Gameplanet acknowledged its potential but suggested the need for improvements. The game was commended for its mix of shooter and RPG elements, high-stakes Dark Zone, and compelling looting system by critics like Push Square and GameCrate. Additionally, the game's strong shooting mechanics, multiplayer hooks, and challenging co-op cover shooter experience were noted positively by reviewers such as Polygon and PC Gamer. On the other hand, critics pointed out several shortcomings in Tom Clancy's The Division. The game was criticized for its lack of mission variety, enemy diversity, technical stability, and replayability. Reviewers like GRYOnline.pl and Gaming Age highlighted issues with balance, shooting mechanics, and repetitive side missions. Additionally, concerns were raised about the game's weak gunplay, enemy AI, lackluster end game content, and a focus on material rewards over narrative depth by critics such as IGN Spain and The Jimquisition. Some critics also mentioned control issues, bullet sponge enemies, and potential sensitivity issues in character design choices as drawbacks. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding Tom Clancy's The Division is mixed. While some reviewers like God is a Geek and GameCrate praised the game for its addictive gameplay, potential for future content updates, and immersive experience, others like NZGamer and ICXM highlighted balance issues, average shooting mechanics, and lack of variety as major flaws. Despite its flaws, the game was generally seen as offering a compelling experience with engaging multiplayer, solid gameplay mechanics, and a well-realized setting. The Division was recommended for players looking for a mix of action, strategy, and teamwork in a post-apocalyptic setting, with potential for improvement in future updates to address its shortcomings and enhance the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

Critics praised Tom Clancy's The Division for its immersive world, engaging gameplay, and addictive multiplayer, but criticized its lack of variety, technical issues, and repetitive missions. The game was commended for its mix of shooter and RPG elements, but also faced backlash for weak gunplay and enemy AI. Overall, opinions are split, with some highlighting its potential for future updates and others flagging balance issues and lack of depth. The Division offers a compelling multiplayer experience with room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

178 reviews found

Cheat Code Central

PlayStation 4

Mar 8, 2016

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

The review states that the game has some screws that need tightening, but overall, it is something really good.

ActionTrip

PlayStation 4

Mar 15, 2016

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

The game is excellent with a stunning open world, tactical gameplay, and a dark and dramatic setting. Limited character customization and lack of in-game lore are some downsides.

IGN Denmark

PlayStation 4

Apr 6, 2016

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

The Division is a highly impressive and addictive game with stunning visuals and a post-apocalyptic atmosphere. It offers a lot of content for both PvE and PvP players.

Game Rant

Xbox One

Mar 14, 2016

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

The Division is a must-play for any type of gamer, with its compelling story, unique gameplay, challenging end game, and many little touches like a brilliant sound system and great sense of humor.

Read full review

Brash Games

Xbox One

Mar 12, 2016

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

The Division is praised as an excellent, engaging, and satisfying game that exceeded expectations and stands out in its genre.

Read full review

The Digital Fix

Xbox One

Mar 22, 2016

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

The Division is one of the best online titles ever released, offering solid gameplay mechanics, a well-realized setting, RPG elements, and enjoyable multiplayer experiences.

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Mar 11, 2016

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

The Division is a mightily ambitious game that hits the right notes on all fronts. It offers a cohesive and enjoyable experience with a stunning visual design, challenging gameplay, and a variety of customization options. The story could be more engaging, but the organic approach to narrative is admirable.

Read full review

The Daily Dot

Xbox One

Mar 15, 2016

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

The Division is praised for its immersive story, engaging gameplay, stunning graphics, and replay value. However, concerns are raised about lack of enemy variance and potential sensitivity issues in character design choices.

ZTGD

Xbox One

Mar 15, 2016

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

The review expresses a positive outlook for the future of The Division and its agents, stating that it is a step in the right direction for people coming together to take down the enemy.

Read full review

Attack of the Fanboy

Mar 10, 2016

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

Tom Clancy’s The Division is praised as a fantastic experience that successfully combines elements from different genres into a cohesive gameplay experience. Despite some inherent issues like grinding and bullet-sponge enemies, the game is well-designed and offers an excellent loot-based shooter for players to enjoy.

Read full review