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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 impresses with its gripping narrative and character depth, blending classic slasher tropes with interactive storytelling that enhances replayability. Critics praise its engaging twists and relatable characters, though some raise concerns about unnecessary elements in the remake that may detract from the original's tension. Despite mixed opinions on the updates, the game remains a standout in the horror genre, captivating players with its immersive experience.

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 story of Until Dawn has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers like COGconnected highlight the depth added to the characters and the intricate web of horror elements that enhance the overall experience. Critics such as GameSpew and PlaySense emphasize the compelling twists and relatable characters that contribute to the game's immersive storytelling. The narrative's foundation in classic slasher tropes, as noted by GameOver.gr and SpazioGames, resonates well with players, creating a familiar yet fresh experience that keeps them invested. Furthermore, the interactive nature of the story, where player choices significantly impact character fates and outcomes, is consistently lauded, with Vandal and IGN Spain noting the replayability this feature provides. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics express concerns regarding certain aspects of the story. CGMagazine argues that the remake introduces unnecessary elements and over-explains the plot, which detracts from the original's tension and edge. Similarly, Checkpoint Gaming points out that while the main plot remains intact, the additions offer little new for returning players, potentially limiting the experience for those familiar with the original. Additionally, Gaming Age mentions that the storyline and dialogue are almost identical to the original, suggesting that minimal improvements may not be enough to satisfy all players. These critiques indicate a divide between those who appreciate the enhancements and those who feel they detract from the core experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Until Dawn successfully delivers a gripping and immersive horror narrative that resonates well with players. While there are some criticisms regarding the changes made in the remake, the majority of reviewers, including IGN and TechRadar Gaming, agree that the game retains its engaging character-driven storyline and impactful decision-making. The blend of slasher film conventions with interactive storytelling has proven to be a winning formula, making Until Dawn a standout title in the horror genre, as reflected in the positive sentiments of critics across the board.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Until Dawn impresses with its gripping narrative and player-driven choices, earning praise for its immersive, interactive movie vibe and strong replayability. Critics highlight enhanced mechanics and tense gameplay but note flaws like sluggish controls and a cumbersome totem system that hinder the experience. While it succeeds in creating emotional investment and suspense, the game struggles with outdated elements, suggesting room for improvement in future titles. Overall, it’s a solid but imperfect horror experience that marries storytelling with player agency.

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 has garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting its engaging narrative structure and immersive mechanics. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and GamersRD, praised the game for its interactive movie-like experience, where player choices significantly affect the storyline and character fates, reinforcing the game's core theme of the Butterfly Effect. Critics like COGconnected and IGN also noted improvements in gameplay mechanics, including enhanced camera angles and accessibility options, which contribute to a more enjoyable experience. The combination of quick-time events (QTEs) and exploration elements has been recognized for creating tension and excitement, with several reviewers emphasizing the replayability factor due to the diverse outcomes based on player decisions. Despite the overall positive sentiment, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. CGMagazine and XGN criticized the movement controls, describing them as sluggish and less responsive than modern standards, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, issues with the totem system, as highlighted by CGMagazine and Vgames, were mentioned as tedious and frustrating, disrupting the game's flow. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and SpazioGames also expressed concerns about the game's guided nature, suggesting that it could feel limiting in terms of player agency and interaction. Furthermore, some reviewers noted that the gameplay could feel outdated, particularly in its reliance on QTEs and decision-making mechanics that may not resonate with all players. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Until Dawn offers a captivating and thrilling experience through its narrative-driven gameplay, it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers appreciate the game's ability to create tension and emotional investment through choices, as noted by TechRadar Gaming and PlayStation Universe, but they also acknowledge the limitations in movement and some gameplay mechanics that could benefit from further refinement. The combination of engaging storytelling and character-driven gameplay remains a strong point, yet the critiques regarding control responsiveness and the totem system suggest that there is room for improvement in future iterations. Overall, Until Dawn is seen as a solid, albeit imperfect, interactive horror experience that successfully blends cinematic storytelling with player agency.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Until Dawn remake wows with stunning visuals and Unreal Engine 5 enhancements, elevating its horror experience. Critics laud the immersive environments and realistic lighting, but a 30fps cap, stiff animations, and occasional crashes mar the overall performance. Despite impressive upgrades, technical flaws highlight the need for further refinements in future updates.

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 reviews of the graphics and visual design of Until Dawn reveal a generally positive sentiment towards the improvements made in the remake. Critics have praised the transition to Unreal Engine 5, which has resulted in stunning visual upgrades, including enhanced lighting, detailed character models, and immersive environments. For instance, CGMagazine noted the improvements in graphics and character models that contribute to a more immersive experience, while COGconnected emphasized the realistic lighting and natural animations that create a cinematic feel akin to a horror film. GameSpew echoed this sentiment, describing the visuals as "absolutely stunning" and highlighting how they bring the horror elements to life. Overall, many reviewers, such as TechRadar Gaming and WellPlayed, acknowledged the significant enhancements that elevate the game's visual fidelity, making it visually appealing for modern audiences. However, despite the accolades, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A recurring issue is the frame rate cap of 30fps, which some reviewers, including GamersRD and IGN Italia, criticized as a downgrade from the original's 60fps. Additionally, various critics mentioned concerns regarding character animations and facial expressions, with some describing them as stiff or exaggerated, leading to moments of awkwardness that break immersion. For example, Gaming Age highlighted glitches and uncanny valley-like body movements, while TierraGamer noted that lighting changes diminished the original's dark atmosphere. These performance issues, coupled with occasional crashes and inconsistent frame rates, were common complaints across multiple reviews, indicating that while the graphics have improved, they are not without their flaws. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while the graphical overhaul of Until Dawn is impressive and enhances the horror experience, it is marred by technical issues and animation inconsistencies. Many reviewers, including Push Square and Metro GameCentral, acknowledged the stunning visual upgrades but also pointed out that the game struggles with maintaining a stable performance. Despite these shortcomings, the majority of critics agree that the remake represents a significant step forward in visual design, offering a more immersive and visually striking experience than its predecessor. However, the mixed feelings about animation quality and performance stability indicate that there is still room for improvement in future updates or iterations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Until Dawn's sound design and music receive mixed reviews: praised for enhancing horror and atmosphere, yet criticized for changes to the original score. While some highlight the dynamic audio and emotional depth, others argue the new soundtrack lacks tension and consistency, impacting immersion. Critics are divided—some appreciate the updates, while others miss the original's effectiveness. The reworked audio has sparked debate among fans, revealing a split in reception.

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 sound design and music of Until Dawn have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the horror experience. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and GameOver.gr praised the audio for its effectiveness in creating an eerie atmosphere, with Checkpoint Gaming noting that the audio complements the improved graphics, making jump scares more impactful. Similarly, KeenGamer emphasized the stellar music and sound effects, particularly appreciating the dynamic adaptive triggers on the DualSense controller that contribute to decision-making moments. Critics like COGconnected and GamingAge also celebrated the new score for its emotional depth, with COGconnected mentioning how it elevates the game's suffocating atmosphere. However, not all feedback is favorable, as several critics expressed disappointment with the changes made to the soundtrack. IGN Italia pointed out that the new score by Mark Korven is less effective at creating tension compared to the original by Jason Graves, while Vandal echoed this sentiment, stating that the replacement of the original score negatively impacted the overall atmosphere. Additionally, Gameblog.fr mentioned inconsistencies in the implementation of DualSense features, and PC Gamer highlighted technical issues, such as sound turning off and subtitles desyncing, which detracted from the immersive experience. Critics like Games.cz noted that while the new soundtrack includes more licensed pop songs, the absence of some original music was felt, impacting the atmosphere in certain scenes. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception regarding the sound design and music of Until Dawn. While many appreciate the new score and sound effects for their contributions to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth, there is a notable divide regarding the effectiveness of the changes made from the original soundtrack. Critics like IGN Spain and Vgames found value in the updated music, while others, such as IGN Italia and Vandal, felt that the new compositions fell short in comparison to their predecessors. This divergence indicates that while the sound design and music have been thoughtfully reworked, the execution has not resonated uniformly with all players, leaving room for debate among fans of the original game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Until Dawn" features a largely praised voice acting performance from its star-studded cast, enhancing the game's immersive experience, especially with standout roles from Rami Malek and Hayden Panettiere. However, critics noted significant flaws in voice synchronization and exaggerated delivery that detract from character engagement and overall immersion. While many applaud the performances for elevating the game, technical issues keep it from reaching its full potential.

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 voice acting in "Until Dawn" has received a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the performances of its star-studded cast. Reviewers from Gameblog.fr and GameOver.gr noted that the voice acting remains strong, with the returning cast members effectively maintaining the high quality established in the original title. Critics such as GAMINGbible and IGN highlighted standout performances from actors like Rami Malek and Hayden Panettiere, emphasizing how their contributions enhance the immersive experience of the game. Additionally, Twinfinite commended the voice acting for adding depth to the characters, allowing them to resonate with players and effectively portray slasher movie archetypes, while TechRadar Gaming noted that the strong performances elevate the character-driven narrative. However, not all reviews were uniformly positive. Some critics pointed out issues that detracted from the overall experience, particularly concerning voice synchronization and dialogue delivery. SpazioGames criticized the voice acting for being exaggerated and poorly synchronized, which undermined the cinematic quality of the game. Similarly, TierraGamer mentioned problems with delayed character reactions, suggesting that these technical shortcomings negatively impacted immersion. God is a Geek also noted that while some performances were excellent, the majority of characters did not evoke strong emotional connections with players, indicating a potential disconnect between the voice acting and character development. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in "Until Dawn" is generally strong and features notable performances that contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, there are significant concerns regarding synchronization and character engagement. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe and XGN praised the cast for elevating the game's quality, yet critics like SpazioGames and TierraGamer highlighted technical flaws that hindered the overall experience. Thus, while the voice acting is a strong point for many, it is tempered by certain inconsistencies that prevent it from achieving perfection.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Until Dawn on PS5 offers smoother gameplay and new visuals, but suffers from serious technical flaws like stuttering, crashes, and animations glitches, overshadowing its improvements. While high-end PCs handle the game better, many players report frustrating issues across platforms. Overall, the remaster's enhancements are often eclipsed by performance problems, leaving critics unimpressed.

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 has garnered a mix of opinions, with some critics noting improvements over the original. Gameblog.fr highlighted that the remaster runs more smoothly than its predecessor, maintaining a stable framerate despite some minor performance issues. Additionally, GameOver.gr noted that recent patches have improved stability and performance, even introducing a 60fps option that enhances the overall experience. GamersRD also mentioned that the remake features new cinematics and expanded areas, showcasing the capabilities of Unreal Engine, which adds to the visual appeal of the game. However, the negatives associated with the PS5 version are significant. Many critics reported issues with stuttering frame rates, crashes, and animation glitches. For instance, CGMagazine described the performance as poor, citing floating characters and persistent stuttering. Similarly, IGN and Metro GameCentral pointed out that the remake suffers from inconsistent frame rates and crashes, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics like Push Square and SpazioGames echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the performance struggles to maintain a steady 30fps, which feels like a regression from the original's performance. On the PC front, the performance seems to vary based on hardware specifications. GamersRD noted that high-end PC setups experience smooth frame rates and can take advantage of modern graphical enhancements. However, critics like Merlin'in Kazanı and PC Gamer highlighted significant technical issues, including delayed subtitles and freezing submenus, which disrupt gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics across both platforms indicates that while there are notable improvements and some positive aspects of the remaster, the technical performance is marred by persistent issues that hinder the experience, leaving many players frustrated. The game’s performance, especially on PS5, has been described as a mixed bag, with many reviewers suggesting that the technical shortcomings overshadow the enhancements made in the remake.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Until Dawn showcases strong replay value with its branching narrative and choices, praised by critics for encouraging experimentation and cooperative play. However, the remake's pacing issues and minor updates have led to skepticism about its appeal for returning players, with some arguing that replayability wanes after multiple playthroughs. Overall, while new players may find rich experiences, veterans might feel shortchanged, resulting in mixed critical opinions.

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 opinions regarding the replay value of Until Dawn reveal a notable appreciation for its branching narrative and choice-driven gameplay. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameSpew highlight the game's high replayability, emphasizing the butterfly effect and the impact of player choices on character fates, which encourages experimentation with different outcomes. Additionally, Gameblog.fr and IGN Italia point out the multiple endings and new content that cater to both newcomers and veterans, suggesting that the experience can be enriched through various playthroughs. Critics like GamersRD and Vandal further support this sentiment by noting that the game is best enjoyed in cooperative play, where players can explore different paths together. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the replay value as well. CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming express concerns that the changes in the remake, such as pacing issues and the difficulty in finding collectibles, detract from the core appeal of the game. Critics like IGN and WellPlayed note that the additions are minor and may not justify a full-price purchase for those familiar with the original. Furthermore, PlaySense and Vgames argue that the replayability diminishes after multiple playthroughs, as many choices lead to similar outcomes, and the known twists reduce the incentive to revisit the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While many acknowledge the game's potential for replayability due to its branching storylines and decision-making systems, several reviewers caution that the remake does not offer enough new content to entice players who have already experienced the original. Critics like GamingTrend and XGN suggest that the lack of substantial gameplay changes and the high price point may limit the appeal for returning players. Thus, while Until Dawn retains a degree of replay value, especially for new players, veterans may find the experience less compelling, leading to a divided sentiment in the critical landscape.

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 sentiment surrounding the remake of Until Dawn for PS5 is notably mixed, with many critics acknowledging the game's strengths. Reviewers such as COGconnected and GAMINGbible praised the stunning visual overhaul and improvements in graphics and sound design, highlighting the engaging narrative and immersive atmosphere that continue to captivate players. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and PlayStation Universe noted that the remake retains the essence of the original while offering a refined experience that newcomers and fans alike can appreciate. The enhancements in accessibility options and the introduction of new sequences were also mentioned as positive aspects that could enrich the gameplay experience for new players. However, the negatives surrounding the remake are prevalent in the critiques, with many reviewers expressing disappointment in the lack of substantial improvements over the original game. Critics such as CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral argued that the remake feels unnecessary and fails to justify its existence, particularly for veterans of the original. Issues like technical problems, frame rate inconsistencies, and a perceived cash grab nature of the release were raised by critics like WellPlayed and IGN, who questioned the value for returning players. The absence of significant new content and gameplay enhancements was a recurring theme, leading many to suggest that the remake is more of a remaster than a true remake. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Until Dawn on PS5 offers a visually impressive experience that is enjoyable for newcomers, but it struggles to satisfy returning players due to its lack of meaningful upgrades and persistent technical issues. Critics like Gameblog.fr and GamingBolt pointed out that while the remake may be a solid choice for those unfamiliar with the original, existing fans should consider waiting for a price drop or further updates before investing. Overall, the remake is seen as a mixed bag, with its value heavily dependent on the player's prior experience with the original game.

TL;DR

The Until Dawn PS5 remake delivers stunning graphics and improved accessibility, winning over newcomers with its engaging narrative. However, returning players may be left disappointed by minimal upgrades, technical issues, and a cash-grab feel, making it feel more like a remaster. Critics suggest that while it's enjoyable for new players, veterans should hold off until it drops in price or receives updates. Overall, a mixed reception hinges on familiarity with the original.

MONSTER

Reviews

144 reviews found

GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Oct 7, 2024