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Wanted: Dead

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wanted: Dead
Item: Wanted: Dead
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Single Player

AvailableFeb 14, 2023

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperSoleil Ltd.

Overview

Wanted: Dead promises "spectacular melee combat and exciting gunplay," and is set in a "dark and dangerous version of science-fiction Hong Kong where you will need sharpened skills to survive."

Elsewhere

5.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

42%

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

The story of Wanted: Dead receives mixed reactions, with some critics acknowledging its unique setting and thematic ambition. IGN France highlights an intriguing cyberpunk universe exploring the blurred lines between humans and androids, while GameStar draws comparisons to Blade Runner through its synthetic life and implanted memory motifs. Noisy Pixel praises the narrative’s engaging mix of humor and serious undertones, noting its “unique vibe,” and CD-Action appreciates the B-movie atmosphere and action-packed cyberpunk Hong Kong backdrop. Additionally, some reviewers, like PlayStation LifeStyle, commend the game’s nostalgic callbacks to the 1980s and quirky mini-games, suggesting that while the story may not be groundbreaking, it occasionally delivers charm through its eccentricity. These positives often revolve around the game’s world-building and stylistic choices, even if they fail to fully translate into a cohesive narrative. However, the majority of critics panned the story for its lack of coherence, depth, and character development. IGN Japan and Slant Magazine both describe the plot as “poorly executed” and “disjointed,” with characters feeling detached from the events. PC Invasion criticizes the protagonist’s team of war criminals for having “minimal narrative purpose,” while Pure Xbox and Meristation note the story’s convoluted corporate conspiracy and confusing sequences. The dialogue is frequently criticized as clichéd and awkward, with ZTGD calling it “goofy” and “stilted,” and NME mocking the plot as “nonsense” with erratic pacing. Many reviewers, including Xbox Tavern and Worth Playing, highlight abrupt transitions, poorly explained events, and a lack of emotional engagement, with some likening the narrative to “early '90s arcade games” or “B-movie charm that falls flat.” The story’s failure to balance its ambitious themes with meaningful execution is a recurring complaint. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily toward disappointment, with the narrative being the game’s most significant weakness. While a few reviewers found elements of charm or potential in Wanted: Dead’s cyberpunk setting and stylistic choices—such as IGN France’s thematic depth or Noisy Pixel’s engaging tone—the overwhelming sentiment is that the story lacks coherence, character development, and meaningful stakes. The game’s reliance on clichés, awkward dialogue, and fragmented storytelling undermines its potential, leaving players frustrated rather than immersed. Despite occasional praise for its unique vibe or nostalgic nods, the majority of critics agree that Wanted: Dead’s narrative fails to deliver a compelling or satisfying experience, making it a divisive entry in the genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

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Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The gameplay of Wanted: Dead receives mixed praise, particularly for its hybrid combat system and engaging mechanics. Critics like IGN (PS5) note that while the combat is "the best part of the game," it is criticized for being "one-note" and lacking variety. Pure Xbox (XBOX SERIES X) highlights the satisfaction of hack-and-slash elements, especially with the katana, while TheXboxHub praises its "satisfying" combat, particularly the katana and pistol combo. SomosXbox (XBOX SERIES X) emphasizes that the gameplay is the game’s "star," combining melee and shooting effectively through combo chaining and strategic play. GAMINGbible (PC) also appreciates the unique mechanics, comparing it to Octopath Traveler with its Boost Points and Path Actions, which add depth and customization. These positives suggest that the core combat system has potential, even if it struggles to fully realize it. However, the negatives dominate the critique, with widespread complaints about poor execution, repetitive design, and frustrating mechanics. IGN Adria (PS5) criticizes the "ineffective combat mechanics" and "frustrating cover system," while Tech-Gaming (PC) and Slant Magazine (PS5) describe the gameplay as "mindless" and "repetitive." Xbox Tavern (XBOX SERIES X) calls the hybrid melee/ranged combat "stiff and unfun," and Multiplayer.it (PC) highlights "rough and flawed" mechanics, including "poor enemy AI" and "difficulty spikes." Gamereactor Finland (PS5) and Impulsegamer (PC) also point to unresponsive controls, clunky systems, and a lack of fluidity. Many critics, like Destructoid (PS5), note the game’s "archaic" design and "repetitive mechanics," while Shacknews (PC) criticizes its "unduly harsh" and rigid gameplay. These issues collectively create a sense of frustration that undermines the game’s potential. The overall consensus among critics is divided but leans toward disappointment, with many acknowledging the game’s ambitious hybrid combat system while criticizing its execution. While some praise its challenge and depth—GAMINGbible (PC) calls it "engaging" and KeenGamer (XBOX SERIES X) notes its "NES hard style"—the majority find it overly punishing, repetitive, or poorly balanced. IGN (PS5) admits the combat is "satisfying" but lacks variety, while GameCritics (XBOX SERIES X) acknowledges "satisfying combat mechanics" despite balance issues. The game’s difficulty spikes, clunky controls, and lack of enemy diversity are recurring complaints, with GamingTrend (XBOX SERIES X) and Noisy Pixel (PS5) highlighting how these flaws detract from the experience. Ultimately, Wanted: Dead is seen as a flawed but occasionally rewarding title that struggles to reconcile its ambitious design with cohesive gameplay.

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gameplay mechanics

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Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

37%

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

The reviews of Wanted: Dead’s graphics and visual design reveal a few notable positives, particularly in its artistic direction and stylistic choices. Critics like IGN France praised the game’s “unique aesthetic” with effective use of color and lighting, while Cubed3 highlighted its “stylish visuals” and “expressive characters.” The cyberpunk themes were frequently lauded, with Wccftech noting its “visually stunning” cyberpunk aesthetics and TheXboxHub appreciating the “stunning anime cutscenes” and quirky visual style. Some reviewers, such as Game Rant, acknowledged well-crafted textures and a futuristic feel, while GAMINGbible commended the HD-2D art style and immersive scenery. These elements suggest that the game’s design aimed for a distinct identity, with certain aspects—like cutscenes and environmental flair—receiving praise despite broader technical shortcomings. However, the negatives dominate the critique, with consistent complaints about dated visuals, poor technical execution, and lack of polish. Pure Xbox and Push Square criticized the “dated graphics,” “cheap” character models, and “awkward” environments, while Xbox Tavern noted an overuse of visual effects that hindered performance. Many reviewers highlighted repetitive textures, generic level design, and a lack of variety, with Eurogamer Poland calling the visuals “inconsistent” and SpazioGames deeming them “outdated” with poor polygon modeling. Performance issues were also widespread: Xbox Achievements mentioned choppy frame rates, GameGrin pointed to lighting problems in cutscenes, and Multiplayer.it criticized low-quality animations. Even the game’s use of Unreal Engine 4 was seen as underwhelming by BaziCenter, who noted “frame rate drops” and “inconsistent environment design quality.” These issues collectively painted a picture of a game that struggled to meet modern graphical standards. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans heavily toward disappointment, with the game’s visual design failing to live up to its potential. While some praised its stylistic choices—such as COGconnected’s mention of “triple-A feel” in moments and XboxAddict’s nod to its “cyberpunk aesthetic”—the majority criticized its technical shortcomings, repetitive environments, and lack of polish. New Game Network noted the game felt like it could have been released during the early PS4/Xbox One era, while GameOver.gr called its urban environments “lacking in polish.” Despite occasional highlights, such as Impulsegamer’s praise for detailed character models or GamingBolt’s acknowledgment of “high-quality anime-style cutscenes,” the broader sentiment was that Wanted: Dead fell short of modern expectations. The game’s visual design, while occasionally stylish, was frequently undermined by technical flaws and a lack of innovation, leaving critics divided between its artistic ambition and its execution.

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graphics and visual design

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Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

37%

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

The sound design and music of Wanted: Dead received notable praise for its eclectic soundtrack and atmospheric elements. Critics like IGN France highlighted Stefanie Joosten’s contributions, noting her vocal work as a standout, while Destructoid praised the '80s covers and original songs that "fit the game's tone." The inclusion of licensed tracks, such as Nena’s 99 Red Balloons mentioned by Shacknews, added a nostalgic flair, and several reviewers, including Xbox Achievements and GAMINGbible, commended the soundtrack for enhancing immersion. SECTOR.sk and Cubed3 also noted the mix of original and cover tracks, which complemented the game’s retro aesthetic. These positives suggest that while the audio design had its flaws, the music itself was a cohesive and memorable aspect of the experience. However, the majority of critics criticized the sound design for its technical shortcomings and lackluster execution. IGN and XboxEra condemned the voice acting as "poor," "awful," or "stilted," with repetitive lines and emotional flatness undermining immersion. Gamereactor Finland and Game Rant described the music as "generic" and "monotonic," while Pure Xbox and PC Gamer cited issues like dropped audio, poor mixing, and inconsistent volume. ZTGD and Checkpoint Gaming highlighted specific flaws, such as "messy ambience" and "annoying sound effects," which detracted from the gameplay. Even Xbox Achievements, who praised the soundtrack, noted glitches that marred the experience. These critiques paint a picture of a game where audio elements often failed to meet expectations, despite occasional bright spots. The overall consensus among critics was mixed but leaned heavily toward disappointment. While the music and licensed tracks were frequently acknowledged as strengths—Destructoid, GAMINGbible, and Cubed3 all praised their creativity—the voice acting and sound design were consistently panned for being unpolished, repetitive, or poorly integrated. IGN and Game Rant emphasized how the audio issues undermined immersion, while Xbox Achievements and GAMINGbible noted that the soundtrack’s quality occasionally salvaged the experience. Despite these contradictions, the majority of reviews suggested that Wanted: Dead’s audio design was a significant weakness, with its flaws overshadowing its musical highlights. The game’s charm often stemmed from its absurdity rather than its technical polish, leaving many critics divided between appreciating its quirks and criticizing its execution.

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music and sound design

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Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

61%

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

The voice acting in Wanted: Dead receives a mixed reception, with several critics highlighting its fitting tone and occasional standout performances. App Trigger praises the “comical voice acting that fits the game’s tone,” while Noisy Pixel commends Stefanie Joosten’s portrayal of Officer Vivienne as adding depth to character interactions. MondoXbox notes decent English voice acting that contributes to immersion, and Movies Games and Tech appreciates the “gruff characters that add depth to the evolving plot.” GAMINGbible even celebrates the distinct personalities of characters, stating that their dialogue “adds depth to the game,” suggesting that while not flawless, the voice work occasionally elevates the experience. These positive remarks often align with the game’s quirky or retro aesthetic, where uneven performances are perceived as intentional rather than purely flawed. However, the majority of critics condemn the voice acting as inconsistent, awkward, and detrimental to immersion. BaziCenter calls it “poor,” leading to discomfort, while Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected describe it as “uninspired” and “dull,” respectively. Destructoid notes a “first take” cadence that feels “endearing but awkward,” and Finger Guns criticizes the main character’s “erratic” performance. Many highlight repetitive lines (Gamereactor Finland, Eurogamer Germany) or lack of emotional depth (GameSkinny, PlaySense), with some calling it “the worst in a modern game” (IGN). The protagonist’s accent and delivery are frequently singled out as jarring (PlaySense, SECTOR.sk), while others point to poor lip sync (PLAY! Zine) and inconsistent volume levels (Gamereactor Spain). Even the supporting cast struggles, with some characters delivering “rigid and awkward” banter (COGconnected) or feeling “less memorable” (KeenGamer). The overall consensus leans heavily toward criticism, with most reviewers agreeing that the voice acting detracts from the game’s narrative and immersion. While a few praise specific performances or stylistic choices (e.g., Noisy Pixel, MondoXbox), the majority view it as a significant flaw. Critics like Destructoid and IGN note that the “first take” quality and lack of polish create an awkward experience, while others, such as Push Square and Impulsegamer, suggest that its poor execution could be intentionally quirky or “so bad it’s good.” However, this niche appeal doesn’t outweigh the widespread complaints about inconsistency, repetition, and emotional flatness. The divide between those who find charm in its imperfections and those who see it as a major drawback reflects the polarizing nature of Wanted: Dead’s audio design, but the negative critiques dominate the critical landscape.

TL;DR

voice acting

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Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

62%

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

The technical performance of Wanted: Dead across platforms shows mixed results, with some positive notes despite widespread issues. On PS5, critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Hardcore Gamer praised its stability, noting high frame rates and quick load times, while Player 2 highlighted smooth performance with minimal framerate drops. For Xbox Series X, MondoXbox and Gamereactor Spain commended consistent 60fps performance, and TheSixthAxis noted "rock-solid performance" on PC. Meanwhile, IGN Italia acknowledged average hardware handling at 60fps, and Player 2 observed occasional texture pop-in but no major issues. These positives suggest that the game’s technical foundation was functional on some platforms, though not without flaws. However, the negatives dominate the critique across all platforms. On PS5, multiple critics like IGN, Checkpoint Gaming, and Gamereactor Finland reported frequent crashes, frame rate drops, and glitches, with PlayStation Universe citing checkpoint issues that disrupted progression. For Xbox Series X, Pure Xbox and GameCritics criticized crashes and framerate problems during battles, while Xbox Tavern highlighted poor animation and stability issues. On PC, Malditos Nerds, Wccftech, and NME flagged FPS drops, audio disconnections, and inconsistent frame rates, with Eurogamer Germany noting performance dips at lower settings. Even Everyeye.it and Cubed3 mentioned technical flaws, though they acknowledged some stability. These recurring issues suggest a lack of polish across all platforms. The overall consensus among critics is that Wanted: Dead suffers from significant technical shortcomings, with platform-specific challenges compounding the experience. While a few reviewers like TheSixthAxis and MondoXbox praised smooth performance on PC and Xbox Series X, the majority criticized crashes, frame rate inconsistencies, and glitches as major detractors. The game’s technical issues were particularly pronounced on PS5, where IGN and Slant Magazine highlighted frequent crashes, while Xbox users faced AI and animation problems (Xbox Achievements) and PC players dealt with outdated mechanics (GameOver.gr). Despite some positive remarks, the overwhelming sentiment was that the game’s technical flaws overshadowed its gameplay, leaving a fragmented experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

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Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

41%

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

The critics who highlight positive aspects of Wanted: Dead’s replay value emphasize elements like unlockable content, mini-games, and New Game+ modes. App Trigger and Attack of the Fanboy note that unlockable moves, finishing moves, and mini-games provide variety, while Noisy Pixel and Checkpoint Gaming argue that collectibles and diversions enhance engagement. TheXboxHub acknowledges potential replayability through quirky charm and adjustable difficulty, and Gamereactor UK praises the high difficulty and combat variety as reasons to revisit levels. Additionally, GameCritics claims strong core combat mechanics encouraged them to play over 50 hours, suggesting that skill progression and mini-games offer enough depth for some players. These reviews indicate that while the game’s structure is limited, its procedural elements and challenges can sustain interest for certain audiences. However, numerous critics express skepticism about the game’s replay value due to its repetitive design, short length, and lack of meaningful content. Slant Magazine and Eurogamer Germany criticize the five linear stages and repetitive gameplay, while XboxEra and IGN Japan note that the game feels unbalanced and lacks engaging mechanics. TheXboxHub and Pure Xbox highlight that the core experience fails to entice multiple playthroughs despite minor diversions, and Meristation and Game Rant describe the game as too short and shallow to justify revisiting. Additionally, PlayStation Universe and TrueAchievements point out that reset collectibles and limited progression systems in New Game+ modes diminish incentives for replaying. These critiques underscore a widespread concern that the game’s flaws—such as its lack of variety and punishing difficulty—outweigh its redeeming features. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward cautious optimism tempered by significant reservations. While some reviewers, like GameCritics and Gamereactor UK, find value in the game’s combat mechanics and mini-games, many others, including Slant Magazine and Eurogamer Poland, argue that its repetitive nature and short duration make it a one-time experience. The presence of unlockables, New Game+, and side activities offers some replayability, but these elements are often overshadowed by the game’s linear structure and lack of depth. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Malditos Nerds highlight that while there are minor incentives to return, they are insufficient to overcome the game’s broader shortcomings. Ultimately, Wanted: Dead appears to cater more to niche audiences who appreciate its challenges and quirks than to players seeking a robust, replayable experience.

TL;DR

replay value

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Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The overall verdict on Wanted: Dead highlights several positive aspects that resonate with certain audiences. Critics like XboxEra and COGconnected praise its combat system as a standout feature, noting its intensity and rewarding nature once mastered. The game’s retro-inspired design and chaotic gameplay, embraced by Push Square and Destructoid, are seen as nostalgic nods to classic action titles, with some reviewers appreciating its unique charm and "addictive combat" (Gaming Nexus). Additionally, Multiplayer.it and NME acknowledge the narrative’s occasional redeeming qualities, even if they concede it falls short in depth. The game’s willingness to embrace its eccentricities and blend slasher-shooter elements is also highlighted as a point of interest by Movies Games and Tech, while Hardcore Gamer celebrates its punishing difficulty as a rewarding challenge for dedicated players. However, the negatives dominate the critical reception, with widespread criticism of the game’s execution. Multiple reviewers, including IGN Japan, Pure Xbox, and Slant Magazine, describe it as poorly designed, citing technical issues, weak storytelling, and unbalanced mechanics. New Game Network and Gamereactor Finland criticize its "cheap feeling" and lack of polish, while ZTGD and Xbox Achievements point to frustrating gameplay flaws like poor checkpoint systems and repetitive enemy encounters. The game’s difficulty spikes, as noted by God is a Geek, and its "janky" combat (Cultured Vultures) are seen as barriers to enjoyment. Even the narrative and voice acting face backlash, with Eurogamer Germany and GameGrin pointing to dull dialogue and disjointed storytelling. Many critics, including IGN Portugal and PLAY! Zine, argue that the game fails to meet expectations, with its flaws outweighing its potential. Despite the harsh critiques, there is a nuanced consensus among reviewers: Wanted: Dead is a flawed but occasionally enjoyable experience that appeals to niche audiences. While most agree it falls short of being a polished or compelling title, several critics like BaziCenter and Destructoid suggest it could achieve cult classic status due to its retro charm and unique design. However, the general sentiment leans toward caution, with many advising against full-price purchases (PLAY! Zine, New Game Network) unless players are forgiving of its shortcomings. The game’s polarizing nature is encapsulated by NME, who calls it a "guilty takeaway meal" — enjoyable in moments but ultimately unimpressive as a whole. Ultimately, while some praise its nostalgic appeal and combat, the overwhelming majority view it as a missed opportunity that struggles to balance ambition with execution.

TL;DR

MONSTER

Reviews

141 reviews found

Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Aug 24, 2023

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

Wanted: Dead is a great hybrid title that successfully blends slasher and shooter elements, offering a rewarding experience for both nostalgic and modern gamers.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Feb 15, 2023

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

Wanted: Dead is a punishingly-difficult bloodbath that's a joy to play. The combat system is rewarding once mastered, and the minigames offer a sense of levity.

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Gamereactor UK

Xbox Series X

Feb 14, 2023

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

The game is a brutal and challenging experience, with chaotic battles and a retro feel. It may not suit everyone, but for fans of old-school hack 'n slash games, it's a gift from heaven.

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GamingBolt

Xbox Series X

Feb 14, 2023

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

Wanted: Dead is a weird and fun action game that embraces its retro influences, offering a unique experience that stands out in the current gaming landscape.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Feb 14, 2023

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

Wanted: Dead is a nostalgic throwback to older gaming eras, offering stylish combat and quirky elements, despite some technical flaws. It is recommended for fans of mature-rated games from the past.

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CD-Action

Mar 14, 2023

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

Overall, Wanted: Dead is recommended for its hardcore action and engaging gameplay, despite its high difficulty and some narrative issues. It appeals to fans of classic action games.

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Eurogamer Germany

Feb 14, 2023

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

Overall, Wanted: Dead is an enjoyable action game that embraces its retro influences. While it has some flaws in level design and voice acting, it offers engaging gameplay and a unique charm.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Feb 14, 2023

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

Despite its janky aspects and technical issues, Wanted: Dead is a stylish throwback to older action games with an addictive combat system, appealing to fans of the genre.

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Hooked Gamers

Feb 15, 2023

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

Wanted: Dead embraces its inspirations and provides a satisfying swordplay experience with a ridiculous story. However, it has punishing enemy hordes, infrequent checkpoints, and lackluster gunplay. It may require nostalgia for early 2000's games to truly enjoy.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Feb 15, 2023

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

Fans of third-person action games who want a gameplay-focused experience should give Wanted: Dead a try. The combat is intense and rewarding, but the voice acting and dull narrative may be off-putting.

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