Links

Amazon

Playstation

Twitch

CRITIK

Blood & Truth

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Blood & Truth
Item: Blood & Truth
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2019

GenresVirtual Reality, Adventure, Action, Shooter, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMay 28, 2019

PlatformPlayStation 4

DeveloperSCEE London Studio

Overview

Put on your PlayStation VR headset and ready yourself for hard-hitting action in the gritty and glamorous London underworld. You are elite Special Forces soldier Ryan Marks, on a desperate mission to save his family from a ruthless criminal overlord. Grab your PS Move motion controllers and blast anyone in your way as you go face to face with enemies, uncover secrets and experience the thrill of the chase in a high-octane action narrative inspired by PlayStation VR Worlds’ ‘The London Heist’ experience.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

52%

Mixed (50-79)

48%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Blood & Truth are quite varied. Many critics praised the game for its well-crafted narrative and cinematic experience. Attack of the Fanboy commends the game for its good voice acting and cinematic feel, while COGconnected mentions that the game has a well-written narrative filled with action movie clichés. The game's story revolves around revenge, familial bonds, and a factional war in the world of organized crime, with CIA involvement, according to Critical Hit. The Daily Star appreciates the well-paced story that balances quieter moments with action-fueled gang wars. These positive opinions highlight the game's ability to ground players in its world and characters, creating an immersive experience. However, not all critics were as positive about the story of Blood & Truth. GameSpot criticizes the story for feeling disjointed and hokey, with stilted voice acting and poor writing. Metro GameCentral finds the story and characters inconsequential and lacking depth, while New York Daily News describes it as a basic crime drama that is uninteresting. TheSixthAxis goes as far as calling the story forgettable and lacking direction. These negative opinions suggest that the story may not have resonated with all players, with some finding it lacking in depth or failing to engage them. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics appreciate the well-crafted narrative, cinematic experience, and immersive storytelling, others find the story to be forgettable, lacking depth, or suffering from poor writing and voice acting. Despite the mixed opinions, it is clear that the game's story successfully captures elements of action movie narratives and British crime dramas, with moments of humor, emotion, and intrigue. The positive aspects of the story seem to outweigh the negative ones, as mentioned by critics like Gaming Age, who praises the game for its fully fleshed out and unique story, and We Got This Covered, who finds the story immersive and engaging. Ultimately, players' enjoyment of the story may vary depending on their personal preferences and expectations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Blood & Truth. Some praise its well-crafted narrative and immersive experience, highlighting elements like good voice acting and cinematic feel. Others criticize it for feeling disjointed and lacking depth, with poor writing and voice acting. The story revolves around revenge, familial bonds, and organized crime with CIA involvement, offering a mix of action, emotion, and intrigue. While some find it forgettable, lacking direction, or uninteresting, others appreciate its unique and fully fleshed out narrative. Ultimately, player enjoyment may vary based on personal preferences.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

69%

Mixed (50-79)

31%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Blood & Truth has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its variety of gameplay mechanics, including shooting, lockpicking, climbing, and more. Critics such as AusGamers and God is a Geek specifically highlighted the impressive gunplay, making players feel like action movie stars and offering a satisfying amount of control over each firefight. The tactile feedback and realistic gun handling, as mentioned by Critical Hit and Gaming Age, further enhance the gameplay experience. The game also features unique gameplay sequences that require the use of both hands, as noted by CGMagazine. The interactive elements outside of shooting, such as climbing and running, were appreciated by VG247. Overall, the positive aspects of the gameplay include the engaging shooting mechanics, intuitive motion controls, and a host of interactive features. However, there were some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Blood & Truth. Some critics, like Eurogamer Italy and Game Informer, mentioned issues with character movement and aiming controls, leading to motion sickness and imprecision. The movement system, although praised by some for creating a sense of immersion, was seen as restrictive by UploadVR and We Got This Covered. The cover system was also criticized for feeling pointless when it didn't work as intended, as mentioned by GameSpew. Metro GameCentral felt that the gameplay lacked depth and that the enemies were too easy to defeat. Calibration issues with the PlayStation Move controllers were mentioned by Washington Post and UploadVR, causing frustration with aiming. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that the gameplay of Blood & Truth is highly enjoyable and offers a satisfying experience. The majority of reviewers praised the game for its engaging shooting mechanics, variety of gameplay mechanics, and the feeling of being an action movie star. The game's use of VR motion controls and interactive elements were also appreciated. However, there were some criticisms regarding issues with character movement, aiming controls, and calibration problems with the PlayStation Move controllers. Despite these drawbacks, the positive aspects of the gameplay outweigh the negatives, resulting in a highly positive overall sentiment towards the gameplay of Blood & Truth.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Blood & Truth's gameplay shines with engaging shooting mechanics, immersive motion controls, and action-packed sequences that make players feel like action movie stars. Critics laud the variety of gameplay mechanics, but some note issues with character movement, aiming controls, and calibration problems. Overall, the game offers a satisfying experience, with the positives outweighing the negatives for most critics.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

42%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Blood & Truth, with many highlighting its impressive production values and immersive environments. Attack of the Fanboy commends the game for its impressive visuals, considering the limitations of the PSVR headset. The London setting is well-designed, featuring both bright and colorful areas as well as drab dark areas. COGconnected also praises the overall graphic-fidelity of the game, stating that it delivers in this aspect. The levels are detailed and impressive, creating a sense of scale and immersion (Metro GameCentral, PlayStation Country). The character models and animation are well-detailed, with strong acting and well-realized characters (CGMagazine, We Got This Covered). The game features incredible performance capture, great voice acting, and facial animation (Critical Hit). The visuals are convincing and incorporate VR moments for a maximum wow factor (GamesRadar++). The game looks mind-boggling in virtual reality, with richly detailed environments and impressive motion capture (Push Square). Overall, the positive aspects of the Graphics and Visual Design of Blood & Truth are highlighted by multiple critics, with praise for the detailed environments, realistic character models, and immersive VR experience. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Blood & Truth. Easy Allies notes that the visuals have rough edges and washed-out textures, while Press Start Australia mentions that environmental textures remain a mixed bag and jagged edges are plentiful. UploadVR mentions occasional moments of clumsiness, such as arms not going where the player wants them to or clipping into the scenery. Wccftech points out that the fidelity of faces takes a hit, although the full English cast provides a distinctive performance. These criticisms suggest that there are some technical issues and limitations in the game's visuals, particularly in terms of texture quality and VR glitches. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus of the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Blood & Truth are very good. The majority of the critics praise the game's impressive production values, immersive environments, and realistic character models. The level design and set pieces are particularly impressive, creating a thrilling action movie experience (Gameplanet, We Got This Covered). The stunning graphics, especially in VR, provide a realistic portrayal of London (Metro GameCentral). The game is considered one of the best-looking games on PlayStation VR, with readable and VR-friendly levels (TheSixthAxis). The visuals may be limited by the current PSVR hardware setup, but the game still manages to impress (PlayStation LifeStyle). Overall, the positive opinions of the critics outweigh the minor criticisms, indicating that the Graphics and Visual Design of Blood & Truth are highly regarded in the gaming community.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics overwhelmingly praise Blood & Truth for its stunning graphics, immersive environments, and realistic character models. Despite some minor criticisms about rough edges and texture issues, the game delivers a thrilling action movie experience with impressive visuals that shine in virtual reality. Overall, Blood & Truth's graphics and visual design receive high acclaim from critics, making it a standout title on PlayStation VR.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the sound design and music of Blood & Truth, with many highlighting its positive aspects. Attack of the Fanboy commends the game for its stellar soundtrack that sets the tone from the beginning. COGconnected emphasizes the great cinematic music, sound effects, and first-class voice acting that bring the quirky, gritty characters to life. They also mention that the 3D presentation in VR enhances the immersive experience. Daily Star describes the score as a mix of grand orchestral brass and grime beats, with effective use of licensed music. Game Informer considers the voice acting as the game's most consistent strength, providing dependable performances. Gameplanet appreciates the engaging sound design that immerses players in the experience. GameSpew praises the fantastic soundtrack, which features a thumping, pulsating rhythm that seeps into your headphones and serves as a gameplay tool. They also mention the beautiful aura of closure in the closing track. Push Square mentions that the grime-infused soundtrack adds to the atmosphere of the game. TheSixthAxis highlights the great sound design, decent music selection, and convincing voice work. We Got This Covered applauds the immersive sound design, realistic gun sounds, and explosions, as well as the utilization of the headset's microphone for certain actions, adding to the immersion. While the majority of the critics had positive opinions about the sound design and music of Blood & Truth, there were no specific negative comments mentioned by any of the reviewers. This suggests that the game's sound design and music were generally well-received and did not have any significant drawbacks or flaws. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Blood & Truth excels in its sound design and music. The game's soundtrack is praised for setting the tone and atmosphere, with a mix of grand orchestral brass, grime beats, and licensed music effectively used. The voice acting is consistently strong, bringing the characters to life and engaging players emotionally in their stories. The sound design is immersive, with realistic gun sounds, explosions, and a variety of action sequences. The positive opinions from multiple critics indicate that the sound design and music of Blood & Truth greatly contribute to the overall experience and enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics unanimously praise Blood & Truth for its exceptional sound design and music, with stellar soundtrack, cinematic music, and immersive 3D VR experience. Consistent strong voice acting and engaging sound design bring characters to life. No negative comments suggest flawless execution, making sound design and music standout features that greatly enhance gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

90%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Blood & Truth has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the critics. Many critics praised the performances, with CGMagazine stating that the characters feel well realized and their presence in each scene feels real and grounded. COGconnected also commended the first-class voice acting, noting that it makes the characters feel real and flesh-and-blood. The performances were described as convincing and believable by Easy Allies, and Gaming Age mentioned that the voice acting work is really well done, featuring a few recognizable faces. The facial animations and voice acting were particularly highlighted by UploadVR, as they felt incredibly genuine and earnest, making the characters more relatable and engaging. However, there were a couple of critics who had some reservations about the voice acting in Blood & Truth. GameSpot felt that the voice acting was stilted and detracted from the story. Game Informer also mentioned that the voice-acting performances were not revelatory, but at least gave the game something dependable. While these criticisms do exist, they are in the minority compared to the overwhelmingly positive reviews from other critics. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Blood & Truth is of high quality and enhances the overall experience of the game. Attack of the Fanboy praised the script writing and voice acting, stating that they work well and make the character interactions and exposition segments feel natural. Daily Star described the voice acting as of incredible quality, and Gameplanet mentioned that the voice acting, particularly by Colin Salmon, is superb and captures the performances of the characters well. The majority of critics found the voice acting to be strong, convincing, and engaging, with recognizable faces adding to the overall experience. The positive reviews far outweigh the negative ones, solidifying the general consensus that the voice acting in Blood & Truth is a standout aspect of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics overwhelmingly praise the top-notch voice acting in Blood & Truth, noting convincing performances and genuine character portrayals. While a few critics had reservations, the majority agree that the voice acting enhances the game's experience, with standout performances and relatable characters.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

15%

Mixed (50-79)

85%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the technical performance of Blood & Truth on the PS4 platform are varied. Some critics, such as AusGamers and Gaming Age, mention minor issues with tracking and virtual hands getting confused in tighter areas, but overall find the game to be playable and enjoyable. We Got This Covered also praises the game's smooth performance on a PlayStation 4 Pro, with no lag or unregistered inputs, highlighting the stability and enjoyment of the VR experience. Wccftech appreciates the attention to detail in the VR scenery, with little details like dust and sparks adding depth to the game's visuals. On the other hand, several critics point out some negative aspects of the technical performance on the PS4 platform. GameSpot mentions frustrating moments with hardware limitations, while Gameplanet encounters bugs such as getting stuck with a gun in hand and encountering invisible doors. GamesRadar++ highlights technical issues with the PSVR, including failed shot registration and calibration problems. The Washington Post specifically mentions calibration issues with PlayStation Move controllers affecting gameplay. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Blood & Truth on the PS4 platform has some technical performance issues, including tracking problems, bugs, and hardware limitations. However, these issues are not significant enough to diminish the overall experience of the game. Critics like Push Square and UploadVR mention that although there are occasional tracking issues with the PS Move controllers, the game remains fully playable. ZTGD also notes that while there are some VR glitches, they are not major and do not diminish the overall experience. Despite the mixed opinions on the technical performance, the general sentiment is that Blood & Truth on the PS4 platform provides a stable and enjoyable VR experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed opinions on the technical performance of Blood & Truth on PS4. Some praise its smooth gameplay and attention to detail, while others highlight tracking issues and bugs. Despite some drawbacks like hardware limitations and calibration problems, most agree that the game still offers a stable and enjoyable VR experience overall.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

78%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Blood & Truth are varied. Some critics, such as AusGamers and Critical Hit, highlight the game's additional modes and challenges that provide replayability. AusGamers specifically mentions score attack missions, time attack mode, and challenge missions as factors that contribute to the game's replay value. Similarly, Critical Hit mentions hidden stars, collectible statues, and vape modes that can be discovered during replaying missions. These additional elements offer incentives for players to revisit the game and explore different gameplay options. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the game's replay value. Attack of the Fanboy notes that while there are challenges and unlockables, there isn't a lot of extra content to keep players coming back for more in the future. Metro GameCentral also mentions that there is not much replayability outside of a challenge mode. Additionally, Press Start Australia expresses disappointment in the lack of multiplayer and the limited number of challenges available. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Blood & Truth offers some replay value through its additional modes, challenges, collectibles, and unlockables. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Gaming Age appreciate the extended playtime provided by the game's duration and the collectibles to find. PlayStation LifeStyle also mentions plans for future updates, further adding to the replay value. However, there are concerns raised by critics like Easy Allies and Press Start Australia about the limited content and lack of multiplayer options. Despite these concerns, the majority of critics acknowledge the game's efforts to provide replay value and recommend revisiting the game to fully explore its features.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of Blood & Truth. Some praise its additional modes and challenges, while others feel there's not enough content to keep players engaged. Collectibles, unlockables, and future updates contribute to replayability, but the lack of multiplayer and limited challenges are drawbacks. Overall, the game offers incentives for players to revisit and explore different gameplay options, but it may not have enough lasting appeal for some.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

Blood & Truth, a PSVR exclusive, has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the majority of critics. The game is praised for its compelling story, enjoyable gameplay, and impressive production values. Attack of the Fanboy describes it as a must-play experience and one of the best AAA VR games to date. COGconnected also highlights the gorgeous visuals, excellent story, and great voice acting as reasons to consider it a must-play for PSVR owners. The game is commended for its well-realized characters and unique gameplay sequences, making it an enjoyable experience overall, according to CGMagazine. PlayStation LifeStyle appreciates how Blood & Truth exemplifies what an interactive VR experience should be, delivering on its promises and providing an awesome experience. However, there are some criticisms raised by a few reviewers. AusGamers mentions the game's short duration and the lack of mention of sound design or music, which hold it back from achieving must-own status. Eurogamer Italy points out issues with motion sickness caused by the movement system and imprecise aiming controls. TheSixthAxis considers the story forgettable despite the visually impressive game and satisfying gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Blood & Truth is a highly recommended game for PSVR owners. It is praised for its strong gameplay, impressive graphics, and immersive storytelling. The game is seen as a system-seller for PSVR, with critics like We Got This Covered stating that it is the VR action game fans have been waiting for. The positive reception is further reinforced by critics such as Gameplanet, who describe it as brilliant and emphatically recommend it for those who like to be entertained. Despite some minor flaws and limitations, the overall sentiment is that Blood & Truth is a must-play and one of the best games available on PSVR, according to Gaming Age.

TL;DR

Blood & Truth for PSVR: A thrilling must-play with compelling story, stunning visuals, and immersive gameplay, hailed as one of the best AAA VR games. Critics laud its well-realized characters and unique sequences, though some note short duration and motion sickness issues. Overall, it's a highly recommended system-seller delivering an awesome experience, despite minor flaws. A top pick for PSVR owners seeking entertainment and immersive action.

CRITIK

Reviews

101 reviews found

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2019

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

Blood and Truth is a VR blockbuster with high-octane action-packed thrills, stunning production values, and an immersive and thrilling story. It is a must-buy for PSVR owners.

Read full review

COGconnected

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is a must-play for any PSVR owner, with gorgeous visuals, an excellent story, and great voice acting. The on-rails gameplay and short length may not appeal to everyone.

Read full review

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is one of the most fleshed out action experiences available on PSVR. It has a fun, action-packed campaign mode along with additional features and reasons to revisit completed stages. Definitely one of the best games available on PSVR.

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Jun 11, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is the VR action game that fans have been waiting for. It combines immersive storytelling, smooth gameplay, impressive graphics, and a thrilling experience. It is a must-play for PlayStation VR owners.

Read full review

ZTGD

PlayStation 4

Jun 27, 2019

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

In my opinion, there are only a handful of games that can be categorised as a system seller for Sony’s headset; something that would make it worthwhile laying down the cost of VR. Games like Beat Saber and Astro Bot have proven themselves at making VR work in its own right, and now you can add Blood & Truth to that list. And if you already own a PSVR you would be doing yourself a disservice by not going out and picking this game up.

Read full review

Attack of the Fanboy

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is a must-play PSVR exclusive with a compelling story, enjoyable gameplay, and one of the best AAA VR experiences to date.

Read full review

GameSpew

PlayStation 4

Jun 3, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is a white knuckle thrill ride with over-the-top action that will keep you hooked from start to finish. It's a compelling reason to pick up your PSVR headset again.

Read full review

Gameplanet

PlayStation 4

May 29, 2019

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

The game is described as brilliant and an emphatic recommendation for those who like to be entertained. With some polish, it could have earned a perfect 10.

PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Jun 6, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is praised for its level design, satisfying shooting mechanics, strong story, and impressive set pieces. Some extra actions in the game are seen as filler, and the lack of clear 'good guys' to root for is mentioned as a negative. Overall, it is considered an essential purchase for PSVR gamers.

Read full review

Wccftech

PlayStation 4

May 27, 2019

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

Blood & Truth is a fantastic roller coaster ride from beginning to end, with great gunplay and a decent crime story.

Read full review