76
CRITIK
Until Dawn is an interactive drama survival horror video game. It was originally scheduled to be released on the PlayStation 3 and feature PlayStation Move support, but in August 2014, the game was reintroduced as a PlayStation 4 exclusive. Until Dawn is designed to be played multiple times, as players will miss out on quite a bit of content with a single playthrough. Each will last about nine hours in length and the game mechanics utilize a new in-game system called the "Butterfly Effect" in which any choice of action by the player may cause unforeseen consequences later on. For example, locating a weapon in an earlier chapter may allow the player to pick it up down the line when a chase scene leads back to the same room. Throughout the game, players will make difficult decisions during ethical or moral dilemmas, such as sacrificing one character to save another. The Butterfly Effect system blurs the line between right and wrong decisions and it is possible for players to keep all eight characters alive as well as having all eight of them die, allowing for many different paths and scenarios as well as offering several different endings. Until Dawn has a strict auto-save system to prevent players from reloading a previous save file to an earlier point in the game if they regret an in-game decision they have made. The only way to change the player's choice is to restart the game from the beginning or continue to the end and start a new game. In a developer interview, it has been said that Until Dawn has "hundreds of endings". Different endings have different variations depending on the combination of characters alive at the end of the game. The gameplay is focused on exploration, quick-time events and discovering clues as well as making decisions. There is an in-game system that will keep track of all of the clues and secrets players have discovered in total, even if there are multiple playthroughs; these clues will allow the player to piece together the mysteries of Blackwood. In terms of the gameplay mechanics and theme, Until Dawn has been noted to be similar to Heavy Rain and Beyond: Two Souls. Until Dawn was met with a positive critical response upon release, with praise directed at the visuals, choice mechanic, horror elements, music, voice acting and gameplay design. Most of the criticism the game drew was concerning the story, mostly the second half, camera angles, character movements and partially linear plot.
Critik
Scorecard
CLOSE ALL
Story and Narrative
83
Until Dawn's story captivates with engaging narrative, tragic elements, and dynamic character development. Critics praise its immersive experience with branching storylines and impactful decision-making. Some concerns raised about unnecessary additions and pacing issues, but overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. A thrilling teen slasher that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
The majority of critics praised the story of Until Dawn for its engaging and immersive narrative, with tragic and horror elements that kept players on the edge of their seats. Critics like COGconnected and PlayStation Universe appreciated how the story remained true to the original while adding new elements that fleshed out the tragedy at the start. Characters were given depth and development, with choices impacting relationships and outcomes, making the storytelling experience more dynamic and personalized. IGN Spain highlighted the compelling narrative with branching storylines based on player decisions, adding psychological elements that tailored the experience to each player. The interactive and memorable nature of the story, inspired by teen slashers, resonated positively with reviewers like Push Square and Twinfinite. On the flip side, some critics, like CGMagazine, expressed concerns about the remake adding unnecessary elements and over-explaining the plot, which they felt diluted the original game's edge and tension. GamingBolt also noted flaws in the writing and character development, suggesting that while the storytelling was gripping and tense, there were areas that could have been improved upon to enhance the overall experience. These criticisms point towards issues related to pacing, exposition, and character depth that could have impacted the overall enjoyment of the story for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the story of Until Dawn. The majority found the narrative to be compelling, engaging, and immersive, with its branching storylines, impactful decision-making, and psychological elements adding depth and replay value to the game. While there were some minor criticisms regarding the remake's additions and certain storytelling aspects, the general sentiment is that Until Dawn delivers a thrilling and memorable teen slasher experience that captivates players with its interactive storytelling and tense atmosphere.
Gameplay
73
Critics praised Until Dawn for its engaging gameplay features like deliberate pacing, branching storylines, and choices with delayed consequences. Some highlighted improvements in movement and the effective use of choice mechanics. However, there were criticisms about the mishandled totem system and issues with movement controls. Despite some flaws, critics agree that the game offers an immersive experience with tension, suspense, and replay value through its interactive storytelling mechanics, making it a compelling choice for fans of narrative-driven games.
The critics generally praised the gameplay of Until Dawn for its engaging features such as deliberate pacing, methodical quick-time events, branching storylines, and choices with delayed consequences. COGconnected highlighted the enhancements in movement from fixed camera angles to a third-person perspective, which improved the overall gameplay experience. GamingBolt appreciated the effective use of choice and consequence mechanics, along with some neat improvements and additions. Push Square also noted the game's well-paced nature, constant perspective switching, and gradual foreboding, which added replay value by allowing players to explore different outcomes. However, there were some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Until Dawn. CGMagazine pointed out that the totem system felt mishandled, becoming tedious and disrupting the game's flow. Twinfinite mentioned issues with movement controls and some awkward mechanics that affected the overall gameplay experience. IGN Spain highlighted persisting issues like facial animations and character control in tight spaces, despite improvements in Quick Time Events and camera controls. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Until Dawn offers an immersive and engaging gameplay experience with its mix of choice-driven narrative, quick-time events, and exploration elements. While there were some criticisms regarding specific aspects such as the totem system, movement controls, and technical issues, the majority of critics appreciated the game's ability to create tension, suspense, and replay value through its interactive storytelling mechanics. The game's unique blend of horror, player agency, and branching paths seemed to resonate positively with most reviewers, making it a compelling choice for fans of narrative-driven games with a focus on player choice.
Graphics and Visual Design
86
Critics raved about Until Dawn's remake graphics, especially on PS5, praising enhanced visuals and cinematic experience due to Unreal Engine 5. Improved character models, lighting, and photorealistic visuals wowed reviewers like CGMagazine and IGN Spain. Despite some minor criticisms like occasional facial animation issues and performance struggles, overall feedback was overwhelmingly positive for the stunning graphics and visual design enhancements.
The majority of critics unanimously praised the graphics and visual design of Until Dawn's remake, especially on the PS5, highlighting significant improvements across various aspects. CGMagazine, COGconnected, GAMINGbible, and IGN Spain all commended the enhanced graphics, lighting, and character models, which contributed to a more immersive and cinematic experience. The transition to Unreal Engine 5 was particularly lauded for delivering photorealistic visuals, realistic lighting, upgraded character likenesses, and increased detail in environmental designs like the wendigos. PlayStation Universe also noted the improved texture detail, facial animations, and shadow quality, further enhancing the overall visual fidelity. Push Square appreciated the extraordinary character models and lighting in Unreal Engine 5, acknowledging the minor artistic changes that added to the improved visuals compared to the original. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback on the graphics and visual design, there were a few criticisms raised by some critics. GamingBolt mentioned that while the upgrade was impressive with noticeable enhancements, there were some changes that may not appeal to everyone. Twinfinite pointed out occasional unusual facial expressions that broke immersion, indicating that there were minor inconsistencies in the character animations that detracted from the overall visual experience. Additionally, Push Square highlighted performance issues on the PS5, noting struggles to maintain a steady 30fps, which could potentially impact gameplay immersion for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of Until Dawn's remake. The majority of reviewers appreciated the significant improvements in graphics, lighting, character models, and overall visual fidelity achieved through the transition to Unreal Engine 5. The photorealistic visuals, enhanced immersion, and cinematic feel were widely praised, showcasing the developers' efforts in upgrading the game's visuals. While there were minor criticisms regarding some changes not being universally liked, occasional facial animation issues, and performance struggles on the PS5, these were outweighed by the overall positive sentiment towards the game's stunning graphics and visual design.
Music and Sound Design
Analysis Unavailable
NA
Description unavailable
Summary unavailable
Voice Acting
Analysis Unavailable
NA
Description unavailable
Summary unavailable
Technical Performance
64
Until Dawn on PS5 impresses with flawless performance and added features like midnight mode, but critics highlight technical issues such as crashes, frame rate drops, and animation glitches that hinder the overall gameplay experience. Despite some positives, concerns persist about the game's technical performance on the PS5 platform, calling for optimization and fixes.
In terms of the positives for the technical performance of Until Dawn on the PS5, reviewers like GAMINGbible praised the flawless performance, highlighting a steady and reliable 30fps experience with rare technical issues. PlayStation Universe also noted the added features on the PS5 version, such as a midnight mode for audio output normalization. These aspects contribute to an enhanced visual and gameplay experience for players on the PS5 platform. On the flip side, several critics pointed out various technical issues affecting the performance of Until Dawn on the PS5. CGMagazine experienced poor performance with crashes, characters floating, and stuttering problems, while Push Square highlighted struggles in maintaining a steady 30fps, with frequent frame rate drops impacting the overall gameplay experience. GamingBolt also mentioned choppy performance and animation bugs, indicating inconsistencies that hinder the game's technical performance on the PS5 platform. IGN Spain further emphasized issues with facial animations, character control, and animation glitches that may detract from the immersion of the game. Overall, despite some positive aspects like improved visuals and added features, the consensus among the critics suggests that technical performance issues are prevalent across the PS5 platform for Until Dawn. While some reviewers like Twinfinite noted that certain issues like movement controls and mechanics did not significantly detract from the overall experience, the general sentiment leans towards concerns regarding crashes, frame rate drops, animation bugs, and other technical hiccups that impact the gameplay quality on the PS5. This mixed feedback indicates a need for further optimization and fixes to enhance the technical performance of Until Dawn on the PS5 platform.
Replay Value
71
Until Dawn impresses with enhanced replay value through branching storylines, decision-making, and collectibles, enticing players to explore new outcomes. Critics highlight fresh elements but note pacing issues and lack of gameplay outcomes tied to character traits as drawbacks. Overall, the game offers an engaging experience with diverse paths to uncover, making multiple playthroughs rewarding.
In terms of positives, several critics highlighted the added elements that enhance the replay value of Until Dawn. GAMINGbible praised the inclusion of new collectibles like 'hunger' totem poles, subtle story expansions, and new gameplay elements that engage both new and returning players. IGN Spain also noted the branching storylines, decision-making system, and collectibles that unlock additional content as significant factors contributing to the game's replayability. These additions provide incentives for players to revisit the game and explore different outcomes, making each playthrough feel fresh and engaging. On the negative side, CGMagazine and COGconnected pointed out some drawbacks that may impact the replay value of Until Dawn. CGMagazine mentioned changes to the totem system and pacing issues that detract from the core appeal and replay value of the game. COGconnected highlighted limited new content for returning players, adherence to conventions, and minimal gameplay as factors that might diminish the replayability of the game. Additionally, Twinfinite noted that while there are different paths to explore and collectibles to find, the lack of gameplay outcomes affected by character traits and relationships, as well as inconsistencies in how relationships are portrayed, could be seen as drawbacks that hinder the overall replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Until Dawn offers substantial replay value through its branching storylines, decision-making system, collectibles, and new elements introduced in the enhanced version. PlayStation Universe and Push Square both emphasized the significance of exploring different story paths, character survival outcomes, dialogue choices, and collectibles, making multiple playthroughs worthwhile. While there are some criticisms regarding certain aspects that may impact replay value, such as pacing issues and limited new content, the general sentiment is that the game provides an engaging and varied experience that encourages players to revisit and uncover the diverse outcomes and secrets it has to offer.
Overall Verdict
Critics praise Until Dawn remake for its upgraded visuals, immersive gameplay, and engaging narrative, providing a definitive horror experience. However, concerns are raised about the increased price, performance issues, and lack of significant new content. Overall, critics lean towards a positive reception, acknowledging the remake's successful capture of the original game's essence with enhanced features, making it a recommended choice for horror fans.
Show more
76
CRITIK
Reviews
112 reviews found90
Gamingbible.com
Oct 7, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Exceptional remake with upgraded visuals, immersive gameplay, and engaging narrative, steep price for returning players but definitive way to experience Until Dawn, recommended for fans of narrative-driven games
Read full review
90
Gameinformer.com
Aug 24, 2015
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn is a remarkable experience that horror fans shouldn't miss. It offers a compelling horror story with a three-pronged mystery that is augmented by collectibles that actually matter. The characters evolve during the game based on how you play them and offer up chances for redemption (or revenge). The outstanding visuals, commendable performances from a cast of professional actors, and a mood-setting dynamic score all bring the characters and environments to life. Supermassive implements the best use of quick-time events to create nerve-racking action sequences. Don't Move prompts are also an interesting addition, tasking you with holding the controller as still as possible to hide from stalking predators. The decisions you make during the game will craft a unique and personal story. Every player follows the same narrative skeleton, and a few of the more "expendable" characters aren't instrumental to the ending. However, the script kept the reviewer entertained and feeling like their decisions mattered throughout their 10-hour playthrough. Thanks to some good twists, a few fake-outs, and limitless jump scares, Until Dawn would make a solid horror film.
Read full review
90
Ztgd.com
Aug 24, 2015
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn is quite possibly one of my favorite entries in the cinematic story telling genre, if not my favorite. It hits on all the right notes, has interesting variation outcomes from the butterfly effects, it looks great, and it’s the closest we’ve come to being in a horror flick. Sometimes funny, sometimes cheesy, sometimes downright scary and tense as hell, Until Dawn is one wild ride, and while not everyone will think it’s worth the entry price, I couldn’t be happier with the end results.
Read full review
90
Twinfinite.net
Oct 7, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn is a faithful remake that maintains what fans loved about the original game. It offers a gripping storyline, gorgeous design, and a more cinematic experience. Despite some issues with controls and lack of significant new content, it remains a solid choice for horror movie enthusiasts looking for an interactive experience.
Read full review
85
Cogconnected.com
Oct 4, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
The remake of Until Dawn stays true to the essence of the original while delivering a modernization for today's gaming standards. It offers a stunning visual overhaul, improved camera, and new sequences, making it an unforgettable experience for new players.
Read full review
85
Arcadesushi.com
Sep 1, 2015
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn is a bold experiment that pays off far more than it doesn’t. The game's unique brand of storytelling makes for a gaming experience unlike any other. However, the game has some issues, such as clunky controls, occasional graphical issues, and brutally fast QTEs. Despite these issues, the game is still worth playing for those who enjoy horror games and making tough decisions.
Read full review
85
Psu.com
Oct 4, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn on PS5 offers a visually enhanced and refined version of the original horror title, maintaining its effective storytelling, immersive atmosphere, and replay value, making it a definitive version for horror fans.
Read full review
80
Ausgamers.com
Aug 28, 2015
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn proves to be both visually and narratively compelling. The game has a compelling narrative that is driven by the player's choices and has multiple endings. The game has a lot of replay value due to the Butterfly Effect system, which creates a helluva lot of variations between the different endings. The mid-chapter questionnaires with the creepy psychiatrist, Dr. Hill, also shape what horrors are about to befall the player. The game has a rudimentary control scheme, and the option to reconsider decisions that are obviously heading a bad way would’ve been nice.
Read full review
80
Es.ign.com
Oct 7, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Until Dawn Remaster leverages the capabilities of PS5 and modern PCs to deliver a strong horror experience with engaging storytelling, despite some recurring issues and notable improvements, making it the best version of the game available.
Read full review
80
Gamingbolt.com
Oct 7, 2024
This is an AI summary of the review and not a direct quote.
Solid enhancement of a really good game, worth the time for fans of the original or newcomers.
Read full review