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CRITIK

Weird West

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Weird West
Item: Weird West
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Simulation, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMar 31, 2022

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperWolfeye Studios

Overview

Discover a dark fantasy reimagining of the Wild West where lawmen and gunslingers share the frontier with fantastical creatures. Journey through the origin stories of a group of atypical heroes, written into legend by the decisions you make in an unforgiving land. Each journey is unique and tailored to the actions taken - a series of high stakes stories where everything counts and the world reacts to the choices you make. Form a posse or venture forth alone into an otherworldly confines of the Weird West and make each legend your own.

Elsewhere

6.1

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Weird West has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its engaging narrative, diverse characters, and unique setting. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Game Rant appreciated the richly detailed world of mysticism and violence, likening the storytelling to pulpy western horror comic books. Furthermore, critics such as MGG and XboxAddict highlighted the engaging main quests and side missions that enriched the game world, drawing comparisons to classic RPGs like Ultima Underworld and Fallout. The intertwining of personal quests in diverse environments added depth to the overall storytelling experience, as noted by MGG. On the flip side, some critics expressed concerns about the depth and execution of the story in Weird West. Finger Guns and COGconnected criticized the lack of depth and agency in the narrative, with inconsequential decision-making and emotional disconnect affecting the player's immersion. Additionally, Digital Chumps and God is a Geek mentioned issues with disjointed storytelling and characters lacking depth, which hindered the overall impact of the narrative. TheSixthAxis also pointed out finicky game mechanics and odd immersion choices that undermined the ambitious story the developers aimed to deliver. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story of Weird West leans towards a positive reception, with a few reservations. The game's unique blend of supernatural and western genres, intertwined destinies of multiple heroes, and impactful player choices were widely appreciated. Despite some criticisms about storytelling depth and execution, the majority of reviewers found the narrative to be engaging, mysterious, and immersive. The game's ability to dynamically respond to player decisions, offer branching quests, and create a sense of mystery and intrigue contributed to its overall appeal. In conclusion, while there were varying opinions on specific aspects of the story, the general sentiment suggests that Weird West successfully delivers a compelling and inventive narrative experience for players to explore and enjoy.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed feelings about Weird West's story. While praised for engaging narrative, diverse characters, and rich world, some found issues with storytelling depth and disjointed narrative. Overall, the game's unique blend of genres, player choices, and mysterious atmosphere received positive feedback, despite some reservations about execution.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Weird West has received praise for its deep mechanics, offering players a variety of combat choices, interactive elements, and immersive RPG elements. Critics like GameSkinny and Gamer Escape highlight the game's diverse combat options, including magic, firearms, and environmental elements, which allow for creative problem-solving and experimentation. The game's emphasis on player choice and multiple solutions to problems, as mentioned by Gamer Escape and Worth Playing, adds replayability and depth to the gameplay experience. Additionally, the game's sandbox nature, as noted by Game Informer, provides players with options for stealth or action-packed shoot-outs, unique spells and abilities for each character, and physics-based interactions, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. On the flip side, critics have pointed out several shortcomings in the gameplay of Weird West. Issues with controls and camera angles have been a common complaint, as highlighted by GameSpot, Slant Magazine, and WellPlayed. The combat system has been criticized for being clunky and repetitive, with RPG elements crowding the twin-stick gunplay, as mentioned by Hardcore Gamer. Finger Guns and Metro GameCentral also note the lack of depth in the choice system and the repetitive nature of the gameplay loop, respectively. Some critics, such as GameSkinny and Digital Trends, mention that the controls and pacing of combat can feel at odds with the role-playing and tactical elements, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed regarding the gameplay of Weird West. While the game offers a range of combat options, player choice, and immersive RPG elements that enhance the gameplay experience, issues with controls, camera angles, and repetitive gameplay loops have been significant drawbacks for many reviewers. The game's potential for experimentation and strategic decision-making is acknowledged, but the execution of these elements falls short in providing a consistently engaging experience. Despite some positive aspects, such as the deep mechanics and diverse combat choices, the overall sentiment leans towards a need for improvement in addressing the gameplay issues highlighted by critics like GameSpot, Hardcore Gamer, and GameSkinny.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Weird West's gameplay impresses with its deep mechanics, diverse combat options, and immersive RPG elements, offering players creative problem-solving and replayability. However, critics criticize issues with controls, camera angles, and repetitive gameplay loops, detracting from the overall experience. While the game shows potential for experimentation, strategic decision-making, and diverse combat choices, it falls short in providing a consistently engaging experience, with room for improvement according to reviewers.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Weird West have received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Some reviewers have praised the game for its unique art style and visual direction. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and RPG Site appreciate the attractive visuals and stylized comic book aesthetic that enhance the eerie and creepy atmosphere of the game. XboxEra commends the excellent art direction with a painterly look, while Gamer Escape highlights the strong artistic vision of the comic book art style, which helps elements stand out in the isometric perspective, ultimately enhancing gameplay. On the other hand, several critics have pointed out various shortcomings in the graphics and visual design of Weird West. Launcher from The Washington Post criticizes the visual design for being too quiet and sterile, making it hard to engage with the game's systems. Finger Guns and WellPlayed mention the lack of variety and detail in the art style, with repetitive locations and character models. PC Gamer and Cultured Vultures note the sacrifice of readability for a grungy comic book aesthetic, which can make it difficult to make out characters and environments. Additionally, Game Informer and GameSkinny highlight issues with the camera obstructing the view at certain angles and distances, affecting combat and exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Weird West is mixed. While some appreciate the game's unique art style and atmospheric world-building, others criticize its lack of variety, readability issues, and repetitive environments. The blend of western and supernatural elements in the visual design has been commended for creating a visually striking and captivating setting. However, the game's technical limitations, muddy visuals, and camera issues have been noted as drawbacks that impact the overall experience. Despite the divisive opinions on the graphics and visual design, it is evident that Weird West succeeds in creating a distinct and immersive world that resonates with some critics while falling short for others in terms of visual execution and design choices.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed feelings about the graphics and visual design of Weird West. Some praise its unique art style and eerie atmosphere, while others criticize its lack of variety and readability issues. The game's blend of western and supernatural elements is visually striking, but technical limitations and camera problems detract from the overall experience. Ultimately, Weird West succeeds in creating an immersive world for some critics but falls short for others due to its visual execution and design choices.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

60%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Weird West have garnered mixed reviews from critics. Positives highlighted by reviewers include the atmospheric soundtrack that complements the gameplay experience, as noted by Shacknews and Hardcore Gamer. The use of music to enhance the eerie and macabre world of Weird West, as mentioned by XboxEra and GameGrin, adds to the overall immersion. Additionally, the sound design, such as the raspy and deep narrator's voice, as praised by Noisy Pixel and RPG Site, effectively sets the tone for each scene. The fitting soundtrack and well-executed sound design, as emphasized by Jeuxvideo.com across different platforms, contribute to enhancing the western atmosphere of the game. On the negative side, criticisms include issues with audio, such as loud buzzing during intense moments, as pointed out by ZTGD, impacting the overall experience negatively. Some reviewers, like Gamer Escape and Softpedia, noted that the background music stays too much in the background, with characters not fully voice-acted, leading to a less engaging sound experience. The lack of ambient noise and faceless NPCs, as mentioned by Launcher, detracts from the overall atmosphere and immersion in the game world. Additionally, limited voice acting, as highlighted by Player 2 and RPG Fan, was a common point of critique among critics. Overall, the general consensus among critics is that Weird West excels in creating a captivating atmosphere through its haunting sound design and fitting soundtrack, enhancing the western and macabre elements of the game. While some issues like audio problems and limited voice acting were raised, the majority of reviewers appreciated the effort put into the sound design and music to immerse players in the game's world. The mix of positive feedback from critics like God is a Geek and XboxAddict with the constructive criticism from reviewers like Worth Playing and GameSpot indicates that the Sound Design and Music of Weird West contribute significantly to the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed feelings on Weird West's sound design and music. Praise for the eerie soundtrack and effective sound design enhancing gameplay immersion, but complaints about audio issues like loud buzzing and background music being too faint. While some find the lack of ambient noise and limited voice acting detracting, most reviewers agree that the overall atmosphere benefits from the well-executed sound design and fitting soundtrack.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

91%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Weird West, it is evident that there are mixed sentiments. Some critics, such as Player 2 and XboxEra, appreciated the voice acting of the narrator, highlighting it as a positive aspect of the game. Player 2 specifically mentioned that the limited voice acting present was well done, especially in the case of the narrator. XboxEra also commended the main voice acting for the narrator, describing it as well-written and well-acted. This indicates that despite the overall lack of extensive voice acting for characters, the quality of the narration stood out positively for these reviewers. On the other hand, the majority of critics expressed negative opinions about the lack of voice acting for characters in Weird West. GameGrin, GameSpew, Hey Poor Player, GamersRD, Noisy Pixel, Ragequit.gr, Softpedia, and Worth Playing all mentioned the limited or absence of voice acting for characters as a downside of the game. GameGrin specifically pointed out the lack of voice acting, aside from the narrator, as a negative aspect. Noisy Pixel highlighted how the absence of voice acting for characters made pivotal moments feel hollow, indicating that it impacted the overall immersion and emotional impact of the game. Additionally, Worth Playing mentioned that other characters besides the narrator were mute, with only occasional mumbled speech, which could detract from the overall experience for players seeking more immersive storytelling through voice acting. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the criticism of the limited voice acting in Weird West. While some reviewers appreciated the quality of the narrator's voice acting and the atmospheric narration provided, the general sentiment is that the lack of voice acting for characters detracted from the overall experience of the game. Hey Poor Player noted the atmospheric narration by a Sam Elliot type narrator positively, but the absence of character voice acting seemed to be a common point of critique. Despite some positive aspects, such as strong writing and sound design compensating for the limited voice acting, the majority of critics expressed a desire for more extensive voice acting to enhance the immersion and emotional engagement with the game's narrative.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Weird West. Some praise the narrator's performance, but most criticize the lack of voice acting for characters, which they feel hampers immersion and emotional impact. While the quality of the narration receives some positive feedback, the general consensus is that more extensive voice acting is needed to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

66%

Negative (0-49)

32%

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

The technical performance of Weird West on the PS4 seems to have a mix of positives and negatives. On the positive side, GamingTrend notes that the game runs smoothly on the PS5 with minimal bugs, indicating a more stable experience on the newer console. Additionally, Push Square mentions that while occasional chuggy frame rates and small visual bugs were experienced, these issues could potentially be fixed through patches, offering hope for an improved gameplay experience on the PS4. However, there are several negative aspects to consider for the PS4 version of Weird West. Critics like Cultured Vultures, Digital Chumps, and GameSpot highlight issues with aiming, inventory management, and combat balance, impacting the overall technical performance. Furthermore, Launcher points out fundamental problems such as glitches and control issues that significantly affect the gameplay experience, with some issues expected to be addressed in future updates. IGN Spain also mentions poor animations, imprecise interactions, and lackluster feedback during combat, further contributing to the technical shortcomings of the game on the PS4. Overall, the consensus among critics for Weird West's technical performance across all gaming platforms leans towards a mixed reception. While some reviewers like Gamer Escape and Screen Rant acknowledge the presence of technical issues such as odd pathfinding and graphical glitches, they note that these issues are not game-breaking. On the other hand, critics like Hardcore Gamer and Impulsegamer highlight more severe problems like floating bodies, game-breaking bugs, and numerous gameplay-affecting glitches, painting a less favorable picture of the game's technical stability. The varying opinions on technical performance suggest that while some platforms may offer a smoother experience with minor bugs that can be overlooked, others suffer from more significant issues that impact the overall enjoyment of Weird West.

TL;DR

technical performance

Weird West on PS4 has a mix of positives and negatives. The game runs smoothly on PS5 with minimal bugs, but PS4 players face issues with aiming, combat balance, glitches, and control problems. Critics have differing opinions, with some noting minor technical issues while others highlight game-breaking bugs and glitches. Overall, the technical performance varies across platforms, with some offering a better experience than others.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

42%

Mixed (50-79)

52%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Weird West highlight several positive aspects. Critics like Cultured Vultures, Dexerto, and GameSpot appreciate the multiple playable characters, diverse playstyles, and consequences for player choices that contribute to the game's replayability. GameGrin and ZTGD also mention the presence of multiple protagonists and player choices as factors that enhance the replay value. Additionally, Game Informer and Gamer.no emphasize the consequences for choices and actions, with the world reacting to decisions, which adds depth to subsequent playthroughs. The interconnected stories and consequences of choices, as noted by Player 2, offer an exciting experience for players looking to explore different paths. On the other hand, some critics point out certain drawbacks that may affect the game's replayability. Metro GameCentral mentions that starting practically from scratch for each new character can lead to repetition and reduced fun over time. IGN Spain suggests that the lack of a more dialogue-focused approach and underdeveloped ideas could limit the replay value. RPG Site highlights the limited meaningful character progression and incentives for exploration as factors that may hinder replayability. Worth Playing mentions that starting from scratch with each new character might disappoint some players, indicating a potential downside in terms of immersion and continuity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Weird West offers significant replay value through its multiple playable characters, diverse playstyles, branching narrative paths, and consequences for player choices. While some critics point out potential issues such as repetitive gameplay elements, lack of depth in certain areas, and starting anew with each character, the general sentiment is positive towards the game's ability to engage players in exploring different storylines and outcomes. The dynamic world, interconnected systems, and character progression contribute to an engaging experience that encourages players to experiment with various playstyles and choices, ultimately enhancing the overall replayability of Weird West.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Weird West for its high replay value due to multiple playable characters, diverse playstyles, and consequences for player choices. Some mention drawbacks like potential repetition and lack of depth, but overall, the game offers an engaging experience with branching narratives and interconnected stories that encourage exploration and experimentation.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

40%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the overall verdict of Weird West, several positive aspects stand out. Critics like XboxEra and GameCritics praise the game for its engaging combat, stellar writing, and unique gameplay experience. The game is commended for its captivating storytelling, intriguing world-building, and the blend of western and fantasy elements seamlessly integrated into the gameplay. Additionally, the title is lauded for its commitment to player agency, emergent gameplay, and impactful storytelling, as highlighted by GamingBolt and Game Rant. The rich world, engrossing main story, and high replay value are also noted as strengths by PCGamesN and PC Gamer. On the negative side, critics such as Slant Magazine, GamesHub, and Oyungezer criticize Weird West for its awkward control scheme, tedious gameplay mechanics, lack of adaptation to conventions, and technical issues. The game is faulted for its top-down camera perspective, clunky combat, repetitive quests, and decline in narrative quality in later chapters, as mentioned by various reviewers like Impulsegamer and COGconnected. Some critics also point out issues with inconsistent AI, lackluster stealth sections, and inventory management challenges that impact the overall experience, as highlighted by PC Gamer and Shacknews. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding Weird West leans towards a mixed reception. While the game is praised for its ambition, unique storytelling approach, and creative ideas, it is often criticized for its execution, technical shortcomings, and gameplay issues. Critics like Metro GameCentral view the game as interesting and ambitious but held back by design choices, while others like GameSpot appreciate the enthralling experience but note messy gameplay mechanics. The general sentiment suggests that Weird West offers a captivating and immersive experience with room for improvement, appealing to players seeking a different and intriguing narrative-driven adventure, as noted by Vandal and Jeuxvideo.com. Despite its flaws, the game manages to deliver a unique and engaging experience that stands out in the immersive sim genre, as highlighted by Dexerto and Gaming Age.

TL;DR

Weird West receives mixed reviews from critics. Praise for its engaging combat, stellar writing, and unique gameplay is countered by criticism for awkward controls, tedious mechanics, and technical issues. While lauded for its storytelling and blend of western and fantasy elements, the game is faulted for clunky combat and repetitive quests. Overall, it's seen as ambitious but flawed, offering a captivating experience with room for improvement, particularly appealing to players seeking a different narrative-driven adventure in the immersive sim genre.

CRITIK

Reviews

153 reviews found

GamingBolt

PlayStation 4

Mar 31, 2022