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MONSTER

Until Dawn

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Until Dawn
Item: Until Dawn
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Horror, Thriller, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableOct 4, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperBallistic Moon

Overview

Until Dawn is an interactive drama survival horror video game. It was originally scheduled to be released on the PlayStation 3 and feature PlayStation Move support, but in August 2014, the game was reintroduced as a PlayStation 4 exclusive. Until Dawn is designed to be played multiple times, as players will miss out on quite a bit of content with a single playthrough. Each will last about nine hours in length and the game mechanics utilize a new in-game system called the "Butterfly Effect" in which any choice of action by the player may cause unforeseen consequences later on. For example, locating a weapon in an earlier chapter may allow the player to pick it up down the line when a chase scene leads back to the same room. Throughout the game, players will make difficult decisions during ethical or moral dilemmas, such as sacrificing one character to save another. The Butterfly Effect system blurs the line between right and wrong decisions and it is possible for players to keep all eight characters alive as well as having all eight of them die, allowing for many different paths and scenarios as well as offering several different endings. Until Dawn has a strict auto-save system to prevent players from reloading a previous save file to an earlier point in the game if they regret an in-game decision they have made. The only way to change the player's choice is to restart the game from the beginning or continue to the end and start a new game. In a developer interview, it has been said that Until Dawn has "hundreds of endings". Different endings have different variations depending on the combination of characters alive at the end of the game. The gameplay is focused on exploration, quick-time events and discovering clues as well as making decisions. There is an in-game system that will keep track of all of the clues and secrets players have discovered in total, even if there are multiple playthroughs; these clues will allow the player to piece together the mysteries of Blackwood. In terms of the gameplay mechanics and theme, Until Dawn has been noted to be similar to Heavy Rain and Beyond: Two Souls. Until Dawn was met with a positive critical response upon release, with praise directed at the visuals, choice mechanic, horror elements, music, voice acting and gameplay design. Most of the criticism the game drew was concerning the story, mostly the second half, camera angles, character movements and partially linear plot.

Elsewhere

8.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Until Dawn’s immersive, choice-driven story and slasher thrills earn rave reviews as a "playable horror flick," with praise for branching narratives, moral dilemmas, and replayable twists. While some critics call out the remaster’s over-explaining, cringe dialogue, and unaltered core plot, the game’s cinematic tension, character depth, and player agency cement its status as a genre-defining, decade-lasting triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised Until Dawn’s story for its engaging, character-driven narrative and its effective use of player choice to shape outcomes. Many highlighted its strong alignment with slasher film tropes, describing it as a "horror-themed interactive movie" (Metro GameCentral) and a "compelling teen slasher story" (PlayStation Universe). The game’s focus on group dynamics, tension, and moral dilemmas resonated with reviewers like But Why Tho?, who noted its "tense group dynamics and a killer in the woods scenario," while Gameblog.fr and COGconnected commended the remaster for adding depth to the tragedy at the start and fleshing out character development. The branching storylines and multiple endings were frequently lauded, with God is a Geek emphasizing the need for multiple replays to uncover everything, and Vandal calling it "engaging and replayable." Critics like IGN and SpazioGames appreciated the "unexpected plot twists" and "coherent and engaging" structure, while Twinfinite and XGN praised the narrative’s focus on choices and consequences, which "impact the outcome" and "determine character fates." The game’s cinematic quality and immersive storytelling, as noted by IGN Italia and ZTGD, further solidified its appeal as a "playable slasher flick." However, some critics pointed out flaws, particularly in the remake’s handling of the original story. CGMagazine argued that the remaster "adds unnecessary elements and over-explains the plot," which diluted the original’s edge. Checkpoint Gaming noted that while the main plot remained intact, the "Butterfly Effects remain unchanged," offering little new for returning players, and GamingBolt criticized the "flaws in writing and character development." Metro GameCentral mentioned the story "lacks traditional horror elements," and IGN acknowledged "cringe-inducing dialogue" that occasionally undermined immersion. Additionally, Vgames and TheSixthAxis observed that the core twist remained unaltered, which "affects replayability," and GamingTrend pointed to "narrative flaws" despite the game’s strengths. These critiques, while present, were often framed as minor blemishes against the broader praise for the story’s structure and interactivity. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the story of Until Dawn being celebrated for its immersive, choice-driven mechanics and its homage to classic slasher films. While some reviews, like CGMagazine and GamingBolt, highlighted specific shortcomings, the majority emphasized its strengths, such as the "fabulous narrative full of twists" (IGN), "relatable characters" (GamersRD), and "sustained pace and tension" (IGN Italia). The remaster was seen as a respectful update that enhanced character attachment and plot understanding for new players, as noted by Gameblog.fr and COGconnected, while still maintaining the original’s core appeal. Even critics who pointed out flaws, like TheSixthAxis and Vgames, acknowledged the game’s replay value and narrative coherence. The story’s ability to balance horror, drama, and interactivity, along with its emphasis on player agency, solidified its reputation as a standout entry in the interactive narrative genre, with many reviewers agreeing that it "still holds up after nearly ten years" (GameSpew) and "retains the story-focused, character-driven formula of the original" (TechRadar Gaming).

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Until Dawn's immersive, choice-driven narrative and thrilling QTEs shine, but clunky mechanics, outdated controls, and frustration-inducing design flaws tarnish its potential, delivering a polarizing blend of emotional depth and technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Until Dawn is widely praised for its narrative-driven, choice-based mechanics that create a compelling, interactive movie experience. Critics like But Why Tho? highlight its "impactful choose-your-own-adventure elements," while GamersRD emphasizes the "Butterfly Effect mechanic" that ensures every decision feels significant. The game’s branching storylines, where characters can survive or die based on player actions, are noted as a key strength by COGconnected and IGN, who commend its "thrilling, scary, and campy" atmosphere. Additionally, the integration of Quick Time Events (QTEs) and exploration elements, such as collectibles like totems, adds depth and tension, as mentioned by TierraGamer and TheSixthAxis. IGN Italia and Gaming Age also appreciate the absence of a Game Over screen and the ability to control multiple protagonists, enhancing immersion and replayability through unpredictable outcomes. These aspects collectively reinforce the game’s reputation as a story-focused title that prioritizes emotional engagement over traditional gameplay challenges. However, several critics point to technical and design flaws that detract from the experience. CGMagazine and Gaming Age criticize the "tedious totem system" and "buggy movement," respectively, while Games.cz and IGN Spain note lingering issues with "facial animations" and "character control in tight spaces." The camera angles and collectible visibility are seen as problematic by Checkpoint Gaming, and XGN and VG247 describe the controls as "less responsive" and "sluggish," respectively. SpazioGames and Vgames argue that the gameplay feels overly "guided" and "limited," with some mechanics, like the totem system, perceived as frustrating. Additionally, the "illusion of choice" is questioned by PlaySense, who feels that repeated playthroughs diminish the sense of agency, and Vgames notes that the "known twist" reduces replayability. These criticisms suggest that while the core concept is strong, execution issues and outdated mechanics can hinder immersion and enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Until Dawn succeeds as a story-driven experience with its emphasis on player decisions and QTEs, but struggles with technical polish and control responsiveness. Positive feedback centers on its narrative depth, emotional stakes, and replay value, with reviewers like IGN and GamersRD acknowledging its "faithful original formula" and "effective use of choice and consequence." Conversely, negatives highlight persistent issues with movement, camera systems, and the perceived lack of meaningful player agency. While some improvements—such as better accessibility options (Checkpoint Gaming) and enhanced camera controls (IGN Spain)—are noted, they are often overshadowed by frustrations with outdated mechanics and the game’s reliance on scripted sequences. The mixed reception reflects a balance between its innovative storytelling and the limitations of its gameplay systems, leaving it as a polarizing but memorable title for fans of interactive narratives.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Until Dawn's remaster dazzles with Unreal Engine 5's 'stunning' visuals—enhanced lighting, photorealistic textures, and cinematic detail. But Why Tho? and Games.cz criticize 30fps stutters, uncanny valley movements, and PC glitches (DLSS 3, ray tracing). While the graphical upgrade boosts immersion, technical flaws and atmospheric inconsistencies create a mixed, visually impressive yet flawed experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praise the graphical and visual upgrades in Until Dawn’s remaster, particularly highlighting the transition to Unreal Engine 5 as a transformative step. But Why Tho? and COGconnected emphasize the "stunning" visuals, noting enhanced lighting, more detailed environments, and refined character models that elevate the horror experience. GameSpew and TechRadar Gaming laud the "photorealistic visuals" and "cinematic vibe," while IGN Italia and Push Square commend the improved textures, facial animations, and shadow effects. The PC version, as noted by GamersRD and PC Gamer, further benefits from features like DLSS 3 and ray tracing, offering a visually impressive experience. Critics like Games.cz and PlayStation Universe also highlight the "meticulous detail" in environments and the "visually stunning" atmosphere, underscoring the effort to modernize the game’s aesthetics and make it more immersive for 2024 audiences. However, several reviewers point out persistent technical and artistic shortcomings. But Why Tho? and Games.cz note performance issues such as "stuttering frame rate" and a 30fps cap, which they view as a downgrade from the original’s 60fps. Gaming Age and TierraGamer criticize "glitches," "uncanny valley-like body movements," and "awkward facial expressions," while Metro GameCentral and Vandal mention a "less atmospheric feel" and "inconsistent frame rates" that detract from immersion. The PC version, though praised for its graphical fidelity, faces issues like "character models vanishing" and "QTE prompts sticking on screen" (PC Gamer). Additionally, some critics, including SpazioGames and XGN, argue that the visual improvements don’t fully meet expectations, with "stiff animations" and "exaggerated facial reactions" breaking the game’s intended tone. These flaws suggest that while the engine upgrade is impressive, it hasn’t entirely resolved older technical limitations. Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for the visual overhaul, with many calling it a "great deal of effort" and "extraordinary" in terms of detail and immersion. Critics like IGN, VG247, and Vgames highlight the "visually stunning" and "cinematic" quality, while the PC version’s technical enhancements are seen as a strong selling point. However, the negatives—such as frame rate issues, uncanny valley effects, and mixed reactions to artistic changes—are frequently cited, indicating that the remake’s visual success is tempered by performance and design compromises. While most agree that the graphical improvements significantly enhance the horror elements, the divide between technical execution and artistic vision leaves some fans divided, as seen in the critiques from SpazioGames and ZTGD. The overall sentiment reflects a balance between admiration for the visuals and frustration with their implementation, making Until Dawn’s remaster a mixed but largely positive experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Until Dawn’s PS5 sound design and music are lauded for heightening horror with immersive, atmospheric audio and DualSense tech, but Mark Korven’s new score divides fans—some call it less tense than the original, while others praise its emotional depth. Mixed reactions to "mainstream" track choices and technical hiccups (sound/subtitle issues) don’t overshadow the overall acclaim for its audio’s role in delivering a chilling, engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound 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 music and sound design.

The overall sentiment towards the sound design and music of Until Dawn on PS5 is largely positive, with many critics praising the enhanced audio that complements the game's improved visuals and horror elements. Checkpoint Gaming highlights how the audio "fits well with the improved graphics, enhancing the horror experience," and notes that jump scares are more effective with the new sound design. Similarly, Gaming Age describes the soundtrack and sound design as "haunting and beautiful," complementing the game's aesthetic. GamersRD also commends the sound design for creating an "unsettling atmosphere," while KeenGamer appreciates the "stellar music and sound effects" and the dynamic use of the DualSense controller. The new score by Mark Korven, as noted by COGconnected, is seen as enhancing the emotional journey and contributing to a "suffocating atmosphere," with many reviewers agreeing that the audio immersion remains top-notch. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the changes to the soundtrack. IGN Italia and Vandal both express that Mark Korven’s score is "less effective in creating tension and atmosphere" compared to the original by Jason Graves, which some fans found disappointing. GamingTrend criticizes the "dramatic changes in the soundtrack" with "mainstream songs" that "may not fit the vibe or atmosphere of the game." Gameblog.fr points out that while the sound design supports DualSense features, it is "inconsistently implemented," and Games.cz notes that the updated soundtrack with "more licensed pop songs" may have "impacted the atmosphere in certain scenes." Additionally, PC Gamer mentions technical issues such as "sound turning off and subtitles desyncing at random," which detract from the overall audio experience. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers agree that the sound design and music significantly contribute to the game’s immersive and atmospheric qualities. While some fans miss the original soundtrack, many praise the new score for its emotional depth and effectiveness in enhancing the horror elements. The consensus leans towards a positive reception, with the audio being a strong component of the game’s overall experience. Critics like COGconnected, Gaming Age, and KeenGamer highlight the strengths of the new audio, while others, such as IGN Italia and Vandal, voice concerns about the shift in musical style. Ultimately, the sound design is seen as a key factor in the game’s success, with most reviewers acknowledging its improvements and impact on the player's emotional and sensory engagement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Until Dawn’s voice acting dazzled critics with stellar performances from stars like Rami Malek, elevating its cinematic tension and immersion. While a few noted technical hiccups (sync issues, flat characters), the overwhelming praise highlighted its emotional depth and quality, cementing it as a standout, if imperfect, pillar of the game’s success.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the voice acting in Until Dawn, highlighting its strong performances and the contributions of a star-studded cast. Reviewers such as GAMINGbible and IGN specifically commended actors like Rami Malek, Hayden Panettiere, and Peter Stormare, noting their ability to bring depth and engagement to their roles. Twinfinite emphasized that the voice acting effectively portrayed slasher movie archetypes, making characters feel authentic, while PlayStation Universe praised the cast for elevating the game’s quality and surpassing the "wooden acting" seen in other titles from the developer. TechRadar Gaming and Vandal also highlighted the immersive quality of the performances, with IGN Spain crediting the voice acting for enhancing the game’s cinematic experience. These reviews consistently underscore the technical and emotional impact of the vocal work, framing it as a standout element of the game. However, some critics pointed out flaws in the voice acting, particularly regarding technical execution and character relatability. SpazioGames criticized the voice acting for being "exaggerated and poorly synchronized," which they argued detracted from the game’s cinematic quality. TierraGamer noted issues with "delayed character reactions," suggesting that synchronization problems disrupted the experience. Additionally, God is a Geek acknowledged strong performances from actors like Rami Malek but felt that most characters failed to resonate with players, highlighting a disconnect between vocal delivery and narrative engagement. While these critiques were less frequent, they pointed to specific shortcomings that some players found distracting, particularly in a game reliant on atmospheric tension and character-driven storytelling. Despite mixed feedback, the overall consensus among critics leans heavily toward appreciation for Until Dawn’s voice acting. The majority of reviews, including those from Gameblog.fr, GameOver.gr, and Games.cz, emphasized its consistency and contribution to the game’s immersive appeal. While a minority of critics raised concerns about technical flaws or character likability, these issues did not overshadow the general acclaim for the vocal performances. The presence of well-known actors and the effort to deliver nuanced portrayals—recognized by outlets like XGN and WellPlayed—solidified the voice acting as a key strength. Ultimately, the reviews suggest that while not flawless, the voice acting in Until Dawn was a significant factor in its success, balancing technical quality with emotional resonance.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Until Dawn's PS5 port is a flawed, inconsistent mess with glitches, stuttering, and a 30fps cap, while PC shines on high-end rigs but still grapples with bugs. Critics call it a mixed bag, with PS5's issues far outweighing PC's improvements and failing to match the original's polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The technical performance of Until Dawn on the PS5 and PC has received mixed praise, with some critics highlighting improvements and optimizations. On the PS5, Gameblog.fr noted that the remaster runs more smoothly than the original, maintaining a stable framerate despite minor issues, while GamersRD praised the game’s foundation on Unreal Engine 5, emphasizing its visually impressive design. IGN Italia acknowledged that the PS5 version, though occasionally unstable, offers a steady 30fps experience, and GAMINGbible described the PS5 version as "flawless" with no glitches or bugs. For PC, GamersRD and PC Gamer both pointed out that the game performs well on high-end systems, with smooth frame rates and modern graphical enhancements, though Merlin'in Kazanı noted that even with these upgrades, the PC version still struggles with delayed subtitles and character glitches. These positives suggest that the game’s technical foundation has been strengthened, particularly on PC, but the PS5 version’s performance remains inconsistent. However, the PS5 version of Until Dawn faces significant technical hurdles. But Why Tho? criticized stuttering frame rates, pop-ins, and odd facial animations, while CGMagazine and IGN highlighted crashes, floating characters, and shaky frame rates that detract from immersion. Gaming Age and SpazioGames pointed to glitches in body movement and animation, and PlaySense described stiff controls and unacceptable checkpoint reloads. Vandal and Vgames also noted performance issues, with the PS5 version capped at 30fps—a step back from the original’s unlocked frame rate. On PC, while high-end systems handle the game better, PC Gamer and Merlin'in Kazanı reported problems like freezing submenus, corrupted save files, and delayed subtitles, which disrupt the experience. These negatives reveal persistent technical challenges, particularly on PS5, where stability and frame consistency remain problematic despite patches. The overall consensus among critics is that Until Dawn’s technical performance is uneven, with the PS5 version struggling more than the PC counterpart. While some reviewers, like Gameblog.fr and GAMINGbible, praised the PS5’s stability and visuals, many others, including IGN and But Why Tho?, pointed to recurring issues that undermine immersion. On PC, the game’s potential is evident with high-end hardware, but bugs and glitches persist, as noted by PC Gamer and Merlin'in Kazanı. Patches from GameOver.gr and GameSpew helped mitigate some PS5 issues, but the game’s performance still feels like a regression compared to the original. Critics like Push Square and TierraGamer emphasized that the 30fps cap and frame rate drops are significant drawbacks, while others, such as Twinfinite, downplayed certain mechanics as minor. Ultimately, the technical performance of Until Dawn is seen as a mixed bag, with PC offering better scalability but PS5 versions requiring further optimization to match the original’s polish.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Until Dawn's remake shines with branching narratives, multiple endings, and choice-driven stakes, rewarding newcomers and story fans with replayable depth—but veterans face repetitive mechanics, minimal upgrades, and frustrating tweaks that make it a hard sell despite co-op charm and collectibles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews of Until Dawn highlight several positive aspects of its replay value, particularly its branching narrative and choice-driven mechanics. Critics like But Why Tho? and GamersRD emphasize the game’s high replayability through its multiple endings, impactful decisions, and collectibles that influence character fates. Gameblog.fr and IGN Italia note that the game’s complex decision-making system and potential for nearly 20 hours of exploration make it appealing to completionists, while GameSpew and Push Square praise the ability to keep all characters alive as a challenging incentive. TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis also commend the game’s emphasis on player choices affecting outcomes, and Vandal and Merlin'in Kazanı highlight its social appeal, especially in cooperative play, which enhances the experience for friends. These perspectives collectively underscore the game’s strength in offering varied paths and outcomes, particularly for newcomers or those drawn to its narrative depth. However, several critics point to limitations that reduce replay value, especially for returning players. CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming argue that pacing issues and changes to the totem system detract from the core appeal, while COGconnected and IGN note that the remake lacks significant new content or gameplay mechanics beyond minor tweaks like a lengthened prologue or a post-credits scene. PlaySense and XGN criticize the diminishing returns after multiple playthroughs, as many choices lead to similar outcomes or have minimal impact until late in the game. GamingTrend and WellPlayed highlight the absence of an upgrade path for original owners and a $60 price tag, which may make the remake feel redundant for those who already own the game. Additionally, ZTGD and Twinfinite express frustration with the remake’s perceived unnecessary changes and inconsistencies in character relationships, further diminishing its appeal for veterans. Overall, the consensus leans toward a mixed assessment, with the game’s replay value being more compelling for new players and narrative enthusiasts than for those familiar with the original. While IGN Italia and Gameblog.fr celebrate its branching storylines and multiple endings as strong draws, others like IGN and GamingTrend suggest the lack of substantial additions makes it a harder sell for existing fans. The inclusion of collectibles, co-op play, and updated graphics is seen as a plus by some, but not enough to offset the criticisms of limited innovation and repetitive mechanics. Ultimately, the game’s replayability is framed as a niche appeal—worthwhile for those seeking to explore all narrative possibilities or enjoy cooperative storytelling, but less so for players looking for meaningful new content or deeper gameplay changes. This divide reflects a balance between its narrative strengths and the frustrations of its design choices for repeat players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall verdict for Until Dawn’s PS5 remake is largely positive for newcomers and fans of the original, with many critics praising its visual upgrades, accessibility features, and modernized presentation. COGconnected and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the “stunning visual overhaul” and “improved graphics,” while CGMagazine and Gameblog.fr note the game’s “compelling horror experience” and “unforgettable” narrative. IGN Italia and IGN Spain commend the graphical enhancements, free camera perspective, and “engaging storytelling,” with the latter calling it the “best version of the game available.” Additionally, critics like But Why Tho? and VG247 emphasize its appeal to new players, framing it as a “fantastic horror game” and a “definitive version for horror fans.” These reviews collectively underscore the remake’s success in revitalizing the original’s core elements for modern audiences. However, the remake faces significant criticism for its lack of substantial improvements, technical flaws, and high price point. CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral argue it feels like a “less engaging, drawn-out version” of the original, while IGN and GameSpew point to “technical issues,” “frame rate problems,” and a “lack of new features” that make it a tough sell. Critics like Games.cz and GameOver.gr describe it as “unnecessary” and “overpriced,” with IGN Italia noting the “new music that lacks the impact of the original score.” Additionally, some reviewers, such as Push Square and GamingTrend, criticize the absence of an upgrade path for PS4 owners and performance inconsistencies, framing the remake as a “cash grab” despite its visual polish. These negatives highlight a disconnect between the game’s technical execution and the expectations of veteran players. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between newcomers and returning players. While many praise the remake’s accessibility, visuals, and narrative for new audiences—as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and TechRadar Gaming—others, like IGN and Metro GameCentral, argue it fails to justify its cost for those familiar with the original. The game’s value is often contingent on personal preference, with critics like But Why Tho? and VG247 recommending it for fans and newcomers but advising veterans to wait for sales. Despite technical and content shortcomings, the remake retains the original’s charm and horror elements, making it a polarizing but ultimately worthwhile experience for certain audiences. The majority agree it’s a solid, if imperfect, update that prioritizes accessibility over innovation.

TL;DR

Until Dawn’s PS5 remake dazzles with stunning visuals and modernized storytelling for new players, but veterans call it a cash grab—polished but underwhelming, with technical glitches, overpriced tweaks, and a lack of innovation that fails to justify its cost. A polarizing upgrade that’s worth it for newcomers but skippable for fans unless on sale.

MONSTER

Reviews

144 reviews found

GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024