CRITIK

Alone in the Dark

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Alone in the Dark
Item: Alone in the Dark
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Horror, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMar 20, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperPieces Interactive

Overview

Timmy Was Alone in the Dark. He heard a noise from his closet. He hid under the covers but was still sucked through the closet door to the Dark beyond. Whatever You do... Don't Kill Timmy. Guide Timmy ( Our 5yr old Hero ) through the cavernous Dark... Out of the Abyss, through Limbo, past the lightning flashes in the night sky back to the safety of his Dark bedroom. Armed with only a toy photon ray gun, Timmy must battle killer robots, outrun the Giant Spider Bot of Death and avoid over exposure to an ominous light. Puzzle sections guarantee You Will Die & Retry before You make it safely home.

Elsewhere

5.4

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

23%

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

The story of Alone in the Dark seems to have garnered mixed opinions from critics. Positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the unique character perspectives and consistent main storyline, as mentioned by COGconnected. Additionally, Dexerto appreciated the Lovecraftian elements infused into the reimagined story, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative. ZTGD also praised the engaging nature of the story, focusing on puzzles and narrative rather than combat, with favorite protagonists Edward and Emily at the forefront. GGRecon noted the slow-building mystery with elements of pulpy occult fiction and Lovecraftian horror, enhanced by A-list actors that added weight to the plot. On the flip side, several critics expressed negative sentiments towards the story of Alone in the Dark. Gfinity criticized the underwhelming execution and underbaked story, failing to deliver on the reimagined plot involving the disappearance of Jeremy Hartwood. The Jimquisition found the story's delivery to be strange, with unusual character interactions and a plot that only gains significance towards the final act. Slant Magazine and PCGamesN both highlighted issues with storytelling, with the former noting incoherence and lack of fleshed-out characters, concepts, and subplots, while the latter criticized the lack of originality, weak character development, and uninteresting dialogue. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a divided opinion on the story of Alone in the Dark. While some, like But Why Tho?? and Daily Star, appreciated the compelling narrative with Lovecraftian horror elements and film noir stylings, others, such as Twinfinite and Dot Esports, found the story uninspired, lacking depth, and failing to engage the player. The varying viewpoints suggest that the story's strengths lie in its thematic elements and character dynamics, while its weaknesses stem from inconsistencies in execution, character development, and narrative delivery.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on the story of Alone in the Dark. Some praise its unique character perspectives, Lovecraftian elements, and engaging narrative centered on puzzles. Others criticize its underwhelming execution, lack of fleshed-out characters, and uninteresting dialogue. Overall, the game's strengths lie in its thematic elements and character dynamics, while weaknesses include inconsistencies in execution and narrative delivery.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

31%

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

The gameplay of Alone in the Dark received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. COGconnected praised the well-designed puzzles and intuitive map design, emphasizing a focus on puzzle-solving over action elements. Dexerto also appreciated the balance between modern survival horror elements and traditional gameplay, highlighting exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat that leans more towards firearms. But Why Tho?? commended the integration of puzzles into progression, emphasizing the non-linear nature that requires backtracking and scarcity of ammunition to deepen the survival horror experience. These critics appreciated the strategic gameplay elements, well-thought-out puzzles, and the traditional survival horror approach taken by the game. On the other hand, several critics pointed out significant negatives in the gameplay of Alone in the Dark. Twinfinite criticized the clunky and uninspired gameplay, highlighting slow character movement and imprecise combat as major drawbacks. GGRecon mentioned janky movement and aiming, wonky animations, and dull environments as issues that impacted the overall experience negatively. PCGamesN and Dot Esports both highlighted repetitive puzzles, uninspired gameplay mechanics, and clunky gunplay as detriments to the gameplay experience. ZTGD also criticized the combat as a mess with jerky aiming and limited ammunition, impacting the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Alone in the Dark is mixed. While some praised the well-designed puzzles, strategic gameplay elements, and traditional survival horror approach, others criticized the clunky movement, uninspired combat mechanics, and repetitive puzzles. The game seems to excel in creating a strong sense of horror and atmosphere, with a focus on puzzle-solving and exploration. However, issues like dated combat mechanics, lackluster gunplay, and uninspired enemy design detract from the overall experience for many critics. The game's success in delivering a compelling survival horror experience varies depending on individual preferences for gameplay mechanics and execution.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Alone in the Dark gameplay received mixed reviews: praised for well-designed puzzles and strategic elements, but criticized for clunky movement, uninspired combat, and repetitive puzzles. While some lauded its survival horror approach, others found issues like dated mechanics and lackluster gunplay. Overall, the game excels in horror and atmosphere but falls short in gameplay execution, leading to a divisive reception among critics.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Alone in the Dark received mixed feedback from critics. Several reviewers praised the game for its richly diverse and meticulously crafted presentation, with cinematic lighting that effectively conveyed a vintage gothic yesteryear vibe. Critics like Daily Star and Dexerto appreciated the attention to detail in the environment design, creating a disconcerting atmosphere and enhancing the survival horror experience. The game's unique settings, such as Derceto Manor in a 1920s Southern Gothic setting, were highlighted for their creepy and atmospheric visuals, contributing to an immersive horror experience. Additionally, the fully voiced-over documents and well-done cut scenes were noted for enhancing the cinematic quality of the game, as mentioned by But Why Tho??. On the downside, some critics pointed out various technical issues that hindered the overall experience. Twinfinite highlighted problems like crashes, character clipping, and finicky button prompts, making the game unpolished and frustrating to play. ZTGD mentioned late audio cues, slowdowns, and generic textures as noticeable technical issues that affected the visual presentation. GGRecon criticized the rural Louisiana portions for looking dull and washed out compared to other locations, while PCGamesN mentioned that the game borrowed heavily from other titles like Resident Evil, resulting in a derivative and unoriginal visual style. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards appreciating the effort put into creating a visually immersive experience in Alone in the Dark. While there are technical issues and some areas that fall short in visual execution, the game manages to capture a unique atmosphere and setting that contributes to the horror experience. Critics like COGconnected and Try Hard Guides praised the game for its eerie scares, impressive level design, and immersive horror experience, despite its shortcomings. However, the lack of originality and some technical shortcomings were noted by critics like PCGamesN, indicating room for improvement in future iterations of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Alone in the Dark's visuals divide critics: praised for its richly crafted gothic atmosphere and unique settings like Derceto Manor, but criticized for technical issues like crashes and generic textures. Despite flaws, the game offers an immersive horror experience with eerie scares and impressive level design, though lacking originality. Critics appreciate the effort but suggest improvements for future iterations.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

33%

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

The Sound Design and Music of Alone in the Dark received mixed reviews from critics. Positives highlighted by reviewers include the jazz-infused soundtrack, which added personality and a noir detective vibe to the game. COGconnected appreciated the strong voice acting with a Southern drawl, while But Why Tho?? praised the immersive sound design with attention to detail that created paranoia and enhanced the atmosphere. The Jimquisition also commended the sound design for creating a scary atmosphere with malevolent noises that enhanced the survival horror experience. These elements contributed positively to the overall experience of the game, drawing players into its eerie world. On the other hand, there were some negative aspects of the Sound Design and Music that critics pointed out. Gfinity mentioned that the gunplay lacked punch and caused audio glitches, while PCGamesN noted a disinterested voice performance from the main character that dragged down the energy of the game. Slant Magazine criticized the voice acting as sleepy and awkward, and ZTGD mentioned issues with audio cues being late and the music not being particularly memorable. These flaws in the sound design and music detracted from the immersive experience and at times hindered the overall enjoyment of the game for players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Alone in the Dark leans towards a mixed reception. While there were commendations for elements such as the jazz-infused soundtrack, immersive sound design, and atmospheric enhancements, criticisms regarding issues like inconsistent voice acting, audio glitches, and lack of memorable music were also prevalent. The varying opinions from critics showcase a game that excelled in some areas of its sound design and music while falling short in others, resulting in a polarizing reception among players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

The sound design and music of Alone in the Dark sparked mixed reviews. Critics praised the jazz-infused soundtrack and immersive sound design for adding personality and enhancing the eerie atmosphere. Positive notes included the strong voice acting and malevolent noises that heightened the survival horror experience. However, criticisms were directed at issues like lackluster gunplay, disinterested voice performances, and late audio cues, which detracted from the overall enjoyment. Overall, opinions were divided, with some aspects shining while others fell short, leading to a polarizing reception among players.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

The voice acting in Alone in the Dark has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. COGconnected, Daily Star, and Dexerto praised the strong voice acting, particularly highlighting the performances of A-list actors like Jodie Comer and David Harbour, who added quality and depth to the game's atmosphere and character development. Critics like But Why Tho?? and Dot Esports appreciated the unique voices given to each character, enhancing the cinematic quality and storytelling experience. These positive aspects of the voice acting contributed positively to the overall immersion and engagement of players, as noted by GGRecon, who commended the understated performances of the A-list actors for adding weight to the plot. However, not all critics were impressed with the voice acting in Alone in the Dark. Gfinity and PCGamesN pointed out shortcomings in the overall execution, with Gfinity mentioning that while David Harbour and Jodie Comer's performances as Edward and Emily were charming and solid, the supporting cast lacked the same level of care and attention. PCGamesN specifically criticized David Harbour's voice performance as Edward Carnby for being disinterested and lacking energy, highlighting a disparity in the quality of voice acting within the game. Slant Magazine also criticized the voice acting for being unengaging and lacking depth, with characters often sounding disinterested or out of place, which detracted from the overall immersive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Alone in the Dark leans towards a mixed reception. While some praised the strong performances of key actors and the unique voices given to characters, others highlighted inconsistencies in delivery and a lack of depth in supporting cast performances. The voice acting was noted to contribute to the strange and slightly surreal tone of the game, as mentioned by The Jimquisition, but its overall impact on elevating the gameplay experience varied among reviewers. Despite the presence of renowned actors like David Harbour and Jodie Comer, the varying quality of performances and execution led to a divided opinion on the effectiveness of the voice acting in Alone in the Dark.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Alone in the Dark. Some praised the strong performances of A-list actors like Jodie Comer and David Harbour, enhancing immersion and character development. Others criticized inconsistencies and lack of depth in supporting cast performances, impacting the overall gameplay experience. Renowned actors added quality, but varying execution led to divided opinions on the effectiveness of the voice acting.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

50%

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

In terms of the technical performance on different gaming platforms, there are some positive aspects highlighted by the critics. Gfinity, playing on PS5, noted experiencing audio glitches during gunplay on Xbox, indicating potential platform-specific issues. Slant Magazine, on Xbox Series X, mentioned that the game is not broken or unfinished, which can be seen as a positive point compared to some other reviews. Additionally, Try Hard Guides, playing on PC, mentioned that while some bugs were encountered, they were not too serious overall. On the flip side, there are several negative aspects regarding the technical performance across platforms. Twinfinite, playing on PS5, pointed out severe technical performance issues such as crashes, character clipping, and unreliable button prompts, making the game a chore to play through. ZTGD, also on Xbox Series X, highlighted technical shortcomings like hitching on audio cues, slowdowns, and generic textures, along with issues with combat mechanics and the aiming system. Dot Esports, playing on PC, specifically mentioned a buggy collectible progress at release and a game-breaking bug related to melee attacks, indicating significant technical issues on the PC platform. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Alone in the Dark suffers from notable technical performance issues across all gaming platforms. While some critics like Slant Magazine mentioned that the game is not completely broken, it still falls short of being a polished experience. The prevalence of bugs, glitches, and performance issues, as highlighted by various critics, significantly impact the gameplay and overall enjoyment of the title. It is evident that the technical performance of Alone in the Dark is a major point of concern for reviewers, with issues ranging from minor bugs to more severe game-breaking issues affecting the player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Alone in the Dark faces widespread technical issues across gaming platforms, from audio glitches to game-breaking bugs. Critics point out severe problems like crashes, unreliable button prompts, and combat mechanics issues. Despite some positive notes, the consensus is that the game falls short of a polished experience, with bugs and performance issues hampering gameplay enjoyment.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

42%

Negative (0-49)

33%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Alone in the Dark are quite varied, with some highlighting positive aspects that encourage multiple playthroughs. COGconnected and But Why Tho?? both commend the game for offering differing sequences and approaches for each protagonist, unique cutscenes, and collectibles that unlock forbidden knowledge, making it enticing for players to explore all secrets through multiple playthroughs. ZTGD also mentions the exclusive areas and different character paths that add replay value, providing a neat way to experience various cutscenes and dialogues. Daily Star and GGRecon appreciate the need to play from both protagonists' perspectives to fully understand the story, with the game's themes of grief and sacrifice benefiting from experiencing key moments with each character. On the other hand, critics like Twinfinite and PCGamesN express concerns about the lack of significant differences in the story and uninspired gameplay, which diminish the incentive for replaying the game. Twinfinite specifically mentions the game's uninspired gameplay and lack of standout elements, while PCGamesN criticizes the lack of originality and engaging content, leading to low replay value. Gfinity also points out the game's unpolished nature, disconnected set pieces, and lack of standout elements, suggesting that it may only appeal to longtime fans of the series or when purchased at a discounted price. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards acknowledging the potential for replay value in Alone in the Dark, especially through experiencing the story from different perspectives, uncovering secrets, and exploring unique cutscenes and dialogues. However, there are valid concerns raised about the lack of significant differences in the story, uninspired gameplay, and overall lack of depth in storytelling and gameplay, which may deter some players from replaying the game. Despite the mixed opinions, the game seems to offer enough variety and hidden content to entice certain players to engage in multiple playthroughs, particularly those who enjoy uncovering secrets and exploring different character paths.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the Replay Value of Alone in the Dark. Some praise its unique sequences and collectibles that unlock forbidden knowledge, making multiple playthroughs enticing. However, others criticize the lack of significant story differences and uninspired gameplay, which may deter replaying. Overall, the game offers potential for replay value through exploring secrets and unique cutscenes, but concerns exist about gameplay depth and originality.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

19%

Mixed (50-79)

68%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

Alone in the Dark receives praise from critics for its strong performances, engaging puzzles, and nostalgic elements. COGconnected appreciates the game's focus on puzzles and varied adventure, while Daily Star commends the quality acting talent and unique storytelling approach. But Why Tho?? highlights the game's successful homage to the original while incorporating cinematic aspects that appeal to a wider audience. The Jimquisition finds the game enjoyable, spooky, and charming, effectively paying tribute to the original trilogy with its survival horror elements and clever puzzles. ZTGD also acknowledges the engaging story and puzzles that cater to fans of the genre. On the downside, some critics point out issues with Alone in the Dark that hinder the overall experience. Twinfinite criticizes the game for game-breaking bugs, lackluster gameplay, and an uninspired story, making it hard to recommend in its current state. Gfinity describes the game as a standard, budget survival horror title that fails to stand out despite recognizable actors in the cast. PCGamesN criticizes the game for being weak in delivering original moments or engaging gameplay, feeling derivative and uninspired in the survival horror genre. Slant Magazine notes shortcomings in storytelling, gameplay depth, and character development, resulting in a disappointing experience overall. Overall, the opinions on Alone in the Dark are mixed, with a leaning towards positive aspects such as engaging puzzles, strong performances, and a nostalgic experience that pays homage to the original. However, the game faces criticism for technical issues, lackluster gameplay, and uninspired storytelling. While some critics like Daily Star and But Why Tho?? appreciate the game's qualities and recommend it for survival horror fans, others like Twinfinite and PCGamesN find it lacking in originality and engaging gameplay. The consensus suggests that Alone in the Dark offers a blend of positive and negative elements, making it a game that may appeal more to fans of the survival horror genre who can overlook its flaws.

TL;DR

Alone in the Dark receives praise for strong performances, engaging puzzles, and nostalgic elements, but faces criticism for technical issues, lackluster gameplay, and uninspired storytelling. While some recommend it for survival horror fans, others find it lacking in originality and engaging gameplay. Overall, opinions are mixed, with a blend of positive and negative elements that may appeal more to fans of the genre.

CRITIK

Reviews

151 reviews found

Try Hard Guides

Mar 19, 2024