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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

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

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

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Wanted: Dead boasts a visually stunning cyberpunk Hong Kong setting and some intriguing plot elements, but critics overwhelmingly slam its story for being incoherent, cliché-ridden, and poorly executed. While some characters and moments shine, the disjointed narrative and lack of emotional depth leave the overall experience deeply unsatisfying.

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 opinions regarding the story of Wanted: Dead reveal a few positive aspects that some critics found noteworthy. For instance, several reviewers appreciated the game's setting in a dystopian cyberpunk Hong Kong, which provides a visually engaging backdrop for the narrative. Critics like God is a Geek noted that the backstory is interesting and engaging, while MondoXbox highlighted the conspiracy involving a synthetic drone manufacturer as a compelling plot element. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GamingTrend and PlayStation LifeStyle, pointed out that character interactions and relationships add depth, making certain moments enjoyable despite the overall narrative shortcomings. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that the story is riddled with significant flaws. Many reviewers, including Slant Magazine and PC Invasion, described the plot as flimsy and poorly constructed, with a lack of coherence and depth. Critics like Hobby Consolas and TrueAchievements emphasized that the narrative is difficult to follow and often relies on clichés, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the execution of the story, including poorly delivered dialogue and disjointed character interactions, was a common point of criticism, as noted by Tech-Gaming and GameSkinny. The abrupt endings and unresolved plot points mentioned by GameCritics further contribute to the negative perception of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Wanted: Dead has an intriguing premise and some engaging elements, the execution of its story leaves much to be desired. Many reviewers echoed the sentiment that the narrative feels disjointed and lacks emotional engagement, with characters introduced and dropped without purpose, as highlighted by GameCritics and Malditos Nerds. Despite some critics finding merit in the quirky characters and the game's humorous tone, the majority agree that the storytelling fails to deliver a coherent and satisfying experience, ultimately overshadowing the potential of its cyberpunk setting and themes.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Wanted: Dead offers fast-paced, engaging combat that shines with katana and gunplay, but it's bogged down by poor execution, unresponsive controls, and a clunky cover system. Critics praise its melee-ranged combo and skillful progression, yet many highlight repetitive encounters and frustrating mechanics that lead to disappointment. Despite its potential, the game struggles with depth and variety, leaving players wanting more. Improvements are crucial for a better experience.

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 has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting its engaging combat mechanics. Critics such as TrueGaming and God is a Geek praise the combination of melee and ranged combat, noting that the combat is fast-paced and satisfying, particularly the katana and gunplay. GamesRadar+ also mentions a proficient control scheme that enhances the overall experience, while GamingBolt emphasizes the game's encouragement of skillful play through a progression system that allows for varied combat options. Additionally, some critics, like PlayStation LifeStyle, appreciate the unlockable abilities and the challenge presented by the gameplay, which can lead to a rewarding experience for players who invest time in mastering the mechanics. However, the negatives surrounding Wanted: Dead are significant and frequently mentioned across various reviews. Many critics, including IGN Adria and Tech-Gaming, express frustration with the game's combat mechanics, citing issues such as poor execution, unresponsive controls, and a lack of depth. The cover system has been particularly criticized for being clunky and ineffective, as noted by Pure Xbox and Malditos Nerds. Furthermore, several reviewers point out the repetitive nature of combat encounters, limited enemy variety, and tedious gameplay that can lead to a lack of enjoyment, as highlighted by PC Invasion and Gamereactor Finland. The high difficulty level, coupled with frustrating mechanics like poor AI and checkpoint placement, has also been a common point of contention. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Wanted: Dead has the potential for engaging and satisfying gameplay, it is marred by significant flaws that hinder the experience. Reviewers such as Xbox Tavern and Meristation note that the hybrid combat system struggles with execution, leading to a janky experience that detracts from the enjoyment. Despite some positive remarks about the combat's intensity and the satisfaction derived from mastering melee techniques, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game suffers from poor mechanics, frustrating controls, and a lack of variety, ultimately leaving many players feeling disappointed. Critics like IGN Japan and DarkZero encapsulate this sentiment, emphasizing the need for improvements in gameplay design to enhance the overall experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Wanted: Dead showcases a unique cyberpunk art style and engaging anime cutscenes, winning some praise for its charm and smooth performance at 60fps. However, the majority of critics lament its poor graphics, rubbery character models, and performance issues, deeming it visually disappointing and outdated. The game often feels reminiscent of older titles, ultimately leaving players craving a more polished and cohesive visual experience.

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 graphics and visual design of Wanted: Dead have garnered a mixed reception among critics, with some highlighting positive aspects. A few reviewers, such as CD-Action and TheXboxHub, praised the game's unique artistic style, noting its effective blend of cyberpunk elements and engaging anime cutscenes. Impulsegamer also pointed out the detailed character models and beautiful environments, which stand out amidst the game's overall aesthetic. Additionally, critics like MondoXbox emphasized the game's smooth performance, running at 60fps on current-generation platforms, which contributes to a visually appealing experience. This mixture of stylish visuals and engaging cutscenes has resonated with some players, adding a layer of charm to the overall presentation. However, the overwhelming sentiment from critics leans towards disappointment regarding the graphics and visual design. Many reviews, including those from Push Square, Pure Xbox, and XboxEra, describe the character models and environments as cheap, rubbery, and poorly designed, leading to a lack of visual appeal. Critics like SomosXbox and Malditos Nerds echoed these sentiments, citing low-quality textures, bland environments, and stiff animations that detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, performance issues such as frame rate drops and glitches were frequently mentioned, with GameSpew and GamesRadar+ highlighting how these technical shortcomings undermine the visual experience. The consensus suggests that while there are moments of aesthetic charm, the overall execution falls short of contemporary standards. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Wanted: Dead suffers from significant visual shortcomings despite some redeeming qualities. While a handful of reviewers appreciate the unique art style and engaging cutscenes, the majority criticize the dated graphics, poor character models, and performance issues that hinder the game's visual appeal. As noted by critics like Eurogamer Poland and GameSkinny, the game often feels reminiscent of older titles, lacking the polish and innovation expected from modern releases. Ultimately, Wanted: Dead presents a disjointed visual experience that leaves many players longing for a more refined and cohesive graphical presentation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Wanted: Dead features a standout soundtrack praised for its engaging original songs and '80s covers, enhancing the game's vibe. However, the sound design and voice acting fall flat, with critics noting poor delivery, repetitiveness, and audio issues that detract from immersion. Ultimately, while the music shines, the overall audio experience disappoints, overshadowing the game's potential.

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 have garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting some positive aspects. The soundtrack, featuring contributions from Stefanie Joosten, is frequently praised for its engaging qualities. Critics like Destructoid and GamersRD noted that the music enhances the overall experience, with a good selection of original songs and '80s covers that fit the game's tone well. Finger Guns also emphasized the creativity of the music, which contributes to the game's unique atmosphere. Additionally, some reviewers appreciated the infectious energy and charm of the soundtrack, suggesting that it adds a layer of enjoyment to the gameplay experience. However, the overall sentiment regarding the sound design and voice acting is predominantly negative. Many critics, such as PlaySense and IGN, described the voice acting as poor, lacking emotion, and at times, irritating. The repetitiveness of voice lines and sound effects was a common criticism, with XboxEra and GameOver.gr noting that the sound design detracts from the overall experience. Critics like Game Rant and PC Gamer pointed out issues with audio synchronization and mixing, which further exacerbated the lack of immersion. The general consensus is that while the music has its moments, the voice acting and sound design are often disappointing and fail to elevate the game's narrative. In conclusion, while Wanted: Dead features a soundtrack that some critics found enjoyable and fitting, the overall sound design and voice acting received significant criticism. Reviewers like Malditos Nerds and ZGD pointed out that the audio elements often felt generic, repetitive, and lacking in quality. The mixed reactions highlight a disconnect between the potential of the music and the execution of the sound design, leading to an experience that many felt was ultimately undermined by its audio shortcomings. The consensus suggests that while the game has some redeeming musical qualities, the voice acting and sound design significantly detract from the overall experience, leaving a largely unfavorable impression.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Wanted: Dead is a mixed bag—some find charm and depth in select performances, particularly Stefanie Joosten as Officer Vivienne. However, a majority of critics slam it as poor, stilted, and uninspired, significantly hampering immersion and narrative engagement. Overall, the consensus is that inconsistent voice acting detracts from the gaming experience, overshadowing potential strengths.

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 has received a mix of opinions, with some critics finding redeeming qualities in the performances. For instance, App Trigger highlights the "comical voice acting that fits the game's tone," suggesting that the humor in the delivery aligns well with the overall aesthetic of the game. Noisy Pixel praises Stefanie Joosten's performance as Officer Vivienne, noting it adds depth to the characters and their interactions. Similarly, some critics like GamingTrend and MondoXbox find certain performances entertaining or fitting, indicating that while the overall quality may falter, there are moments that resonate positively with players. On the flip side, a significant number of reviewers have expressed disappointment with the voice acting quality. Critics like BaziCenter and Checkpoint Gaming describe the performances as "poor" and "uninspired," respectively, which detracts from the game's immersion. Many reviewers, including IGN and Gaming Nexus, have labeled the voice acting as some of the worst in modern games, with descriptions of it being "stilted," "awkward," and "repetitive." The main character's delivery has been particularly criticized, with several reviewers pointing out a lack of emotional depth and charisma, which ultimately affects the narrative engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is largely negative regarding the voice acting in Wanted: Dead. While some find charm in its awkwardness or appreciate specific performances, the prevailing sentiment is that the voice acting is inconsistent and often detracts from the gaming experience. Critics like COGconnected and PlaySense emphasize the lack of emotional investment in the characters, while others like TrueAchievements and PC Gamer note the overall mediocrity of the performances. Thus, despite a few bright spots, the voice acting appears to be a significant drawback for many players, overshadowing the game's potential strengths.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Wanted: Dead shows promise with high frame rates and quick load times on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but it's plagued by crashes, frame rate drops, and bugs across all platforms. Critics deem it unpolished and glitchy, which overshadows any potential enjoyment. Many players may find the technical issues frustrating enough to avoid the game altogether.

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.

Positives: Across the various platforms, there are some commendable aspects of the technical performance of Wanted: Dead. On the PlayStation 5, critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Hardcore Gamer noted that the game generally runs at a high frame rate with quick load times, and Hardcore Gamer specifically mentioned that it performed admirably without any framerate hiccups. On Xbox Series X, MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech highlighted that the game maintains a stable performance at 60fps, contributing to a smooth gameplay experience. Meanwhile, on PC, some reviewers such as Everyeye.it and Player 2 reported stable performance with no significant framerate drops, indicating that the game can run smoothly on various setups. Negatives: Despite the positives, the technical performance of Wanted: Dead is marred by numerous issues across all platforms. On PS5, critics like Slant Magazine and Checkpoint Gaming pointed out random crashes and erratic difficulty spikes, while others like BaziCenter and Eurogamer Poland noted frame rate drops and stuttering issues. For Xbox Series X, reviewers such as Pure Xbox and GameCritics expressed concerns about frequent crashes and significant framerate issues during battles, with Generación Xbox and Xbox Tavern also mentioning bugs that disrupt gameplay. On PC, the situation is similarly problematic, with Malditos Nerds and IGN Japan highlighting crashes, audio disconnections, and various glitches that detract from the overall experience. Overall Consensus: The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Wanted: Dead has the potential for a solid gaming experience, its technical performance is severely lacking across all platforms. Many reviewers, including Gamereactor Finland and Tech-Gaming, emphasized that the game feels unpolished and glitchy, which significantly impacts enjoyment. Critics generally agree that the game suffers from a plethora of issues, including crashes, frame rate drops, and bugs that disrupt gameplay, leading to frustration for players. The mixed bag of performance reports suggests that while some players may find enjoyment in the game, many will likely be deterred by its technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Wanted: Dead teeters between intriguing and tedious. Critics praise its unlockable moves, mini-games, and New Game+ mode as potential replay enhancers, yet the game’s linearity and repetitive gameplay largely overshadow these features. Many reviewers highlight the short campaign and lack of engaging content as major drawbacks, leading to a consensus that while there’s some replay potential, the game ultimately struggles to keep players returning after the first playthrough.

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 opinions regarding the replay value of Wanted: Dead present a mix of positive aspects that some critics found appealing. Notably, features such as unlockable moves, finishing moves, and mini-games were highlighted by App Trigger and Noisy Pixel as elements that contribute to replayability. Attack of the Fanboy also pointed out the New Game+ mode, which allows players to revisit the game with previously unlocked skills, further enhancing the experience. Critics like Gamereactor UK and GamingBolt appreciated the variety of mini-games and side activities, suggesting that these diversions could keep players engaged beyond the main storyline. The presence of collectibles and skill trees, as noted by Gaming Age and MondoXbox, adds additional layers for completionists seeking to explore every facet of the game. However, the overall sentiment shifts negatively when considering the limitations many critics identified. A significant number of reviewers, including Eurogamer Poland and Slant Magazine, expressed skepticism about the game's replay value, citing the linear structure and repetitive gameplay as major deterrents. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Pure Xbox echoed these sentiments, noting that the reset of collectibles and skill progression after completing the game could discourage players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Additionally, the short campaign length and lack of engaging content were frequently mentioned, with Game Rant and IGN Japan remarking on the game's inability to hold players' interest long enough to warrant revisiting it. The consensus among critics indicates that while Wanted: Dead offers some elements that could enhance replay value, such as mini-games and a New Game+ mode, these features are overshadowed by the game's repetitive nature and limited content. Many reviewers, including those from Eurogamer Germany and Tech-Gaming, concluded that the lack of depth and variety in gameplay significantly hampers the overall experience. Consequently, despite some potential for replayability, the majority of critics agree that the game's shortcomings make it unlikely for players to return after their initial playthrough, leading to a generally low sentiment regarding its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

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 sentiment regarding "Wanted: Dead" reveals a mixed bag of opinions, with some critics finding redeeming qualities amidst its flaws. Several reviewers, such as GamingTrend and Noisy Pixel, highlight the game's engaging combat system and unique charm, suggesting that it offers a nostalgic throwback to older action games. Critics like MondoXbox and Hardcore Gamer appreciate the solid action experience and rewarding combat mechanics, which can provide enjoyment for players who embrace its challenging nature. Additionally, some reviewers, like CD-Action and TheXboxHub, commend the game for its stylish visuals and quirky elements, indicating that it may appeal to a niche audience looking for a retro-inspired experience. However, the negatives surrounding "Wanted: Dead" are substantial and frequently mentioned across various reviews. Critics such as Pure Xbox and Slant Magazine describe the game as disappointing, plagued by numerous technical issues, poor mechanics, and a lack of engaging content. IGN Japan and Malditos Nerds echo this sentiment, pointing out significant flaws in gameplay and story that detract from the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Gamereactor Finland and PlaySense, note the frustrating nature of the game, with poor AI, pacing issues, and a weak narrative contributing to a lack of cohesion and enjoyment. These criticisms are echoed by those who describe the game as a "mess" (ZTGD) or "disjointed" (Worth Playing), indicating a consensus that the execution leaves much to be desired. In summary, while "Wanted: Dead" has its share of supporters who find enjoyment in its combat and nostalgic elements, the overwhelming consensus among critics is that the game ultimately fails to deliver a polished and compelling experience. Many reviewers, including IGN and Push Square, label it as a disappointment, with significant flaws overshadowing its potential. The mixed reviews suggest that while some players may appreciate its charm and retro influences, the game's technical shortcomings and lack of depth make it hard to recommend at full price, leading to a general sentiment that it may be better suited for those willing to overlook its flaws or wait for improvements.

TL;DR

"Wanted: Dead" garners mixed reviews; some praise its engaging combat and nostalgic charm, while many critics slam it for technical issues, poor mechanics, and a weak storyline. Despite a few redeeming qualities, the consensus is that the game is a disappointing mess, best suited for retro enthusiasts willing to overlook its flaws or wait for fixes.

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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