Until Dawn™
" Engaging adventure with meaningful choices and multiple endings but plagued by bugs and crashes "
Until Dawn™ Review
Until Dawn™ is a narrative-driven horror game that immerses players in a tense, interactive movie-like experience. Players control a group of friends trapped on a mountain, making choices that influence survival and story outcomes through a "butterfly effect" mechanic. The game features well-developed characters, including performances by notable actors like Rami Malek, and strong world-building with atmospheric graphics and sound design.
However, the PC port has been criticized for numerous technical issues, including bugs, crashes, infinite loading screens, and problematic PSN login requirements that block access for some players. Many users report needing mods or workarounds to bypass these issues. Despite these problems, the story and gameplay remain engaging, encouraging multiple playthroughs to explore different endings. The game is praised for its suspenseful moments, jump scares, and choice-driven narrative, but some players find the price steep for a remaster with technical flaws and relatively short playtime.
Highlights
Players especially praise the game's compelling story and the impact of choices on the narrative, enhancing replayability.
The graphics and atmospheric design receive frequent compliments, with many noting the impressive character models and immersive environments.
Voice acting and character development stand out, with performances by well-known actors adding depth and realism.
The suspenseful gameplay mechanics, including jump scares and tense "don't move" moments, contribute to a gripping horror experience.
The game's branching storylines and multiple endings are highlighted as major draws for fans of interactive storytelling.
Criticisms
The PC port suffers from significant technical issues, including bugs that cause softlocks and crashes, preventing progression.
Many players struggle with an infinite loading screen early in the game, requiring lengthy troubleshooting or mods.
The mandatory PSN login is a barrier for some users, causing frustration and inability to access the game.
Control schemes are designed for PlayStation controllers, leading to awkward experiences on PC and lack of motion control tension.
The price point is considered too high by many, given the game's age, port issues, and relatively short duration.
Camera angles and object interaction mechanics receive some criticism for being clunky or messy.
Pros
- • Engaging choice-driven narrative with meaningful consequences and multiple endings.
- • High-quality graphics and atmospheric environment enhance immersion.
- • Strong voice acting and character development with notable actors.
- • Suspenseful gameplay featuring effective jump scares and tense moments.
- • Intriguing world-building with rich story background and lore.
- • Replayability encouraged by branching storylines and butterfly effect.
- • Well-crafted horror experience resembling an interactive movie.
Cons
- • Numerous bugs and crashes cause progression blockers and frustration.
- • Infinite loading screens early in the game require workaround or mods.
- • Mandatory PSN login prevents some players from accessing the game.
- • Controls and button prompts are PlayStation-centric, awkward on PC.
- • Price considered too high for a remaster with technical issues.
- • Camera angles and object interaction mechanics can be clunky.
- • Performance issues and stuttering reported on some PC setups.
Rating Criteria
Rebuilt and enhanced for PC – Until Dawn invites you to relive the nightmare, and immerse yourself in a gripping slasher horror where every decision can make the difference between life and death.