Texas Chain Saw Massacre Game Fails to Deliver on Horror but Remains Faithful to Movie.
The highly anticipated asymmetrical survival horror game based on the iconic film, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, has been praised for its clever design and atmospheric visuals. However, critics have noted that it falls short in delivering a truly terrifying experience.
Developed by Gun CEO Wes Keltner, the game faithfully recreates the eerie ambiance of the 1974 movie, from the chirping birdsongs to its terracotta vision of Texas. While it serves as an admirable homage to one of cinema’s most indelible horror classics, it ultimately sacrifices gameplay engagement in its commitment to the source material.
The game attempts to stand out with its prequel-like story, set in Central Texas in April 1973. Players are immersed in a tragic and desperate situation as they search for a missing college student named Maria Flores. However, critics have found that the story is barely relevant in the game, with little time for players to care about the underlying narrative.
The gameplay revolves around two sides: the Victims, who must escape the cannibalistic Family members. Each character possesses unique qualities, defensive, and offensive abilities, creating a diverse range of gameplay experiences. However, due to the lack of tutorial content, players struggle to familiarize themselves with the game mechanics.
Matches typically last around five minutes, leaving limited time to explore the game’s three maps, all faithful replicas of the movie set. Victims must focus on escaping, while Family members are tasked with hunting down their prey. Completing quicktime-adjacent minigames and interacting with objects require players to fill meters, adding tension and strategy to the gameplay.
Although tactical multiplayer enthusiasts may appreciate the game’s mechanics, fans of the original film and its visceral terror may find themselves underwhelmed. The game’s faithful replication of the movie’s visuals and gore lose their impact after repeated exposure. Furthermore, the online multiplayer format is at odds with the self-contained nature of the film, making it challenging to capture the same sense of dread.
Despite its shortcomings, the game still has moments of tension and beauty, with stunning sunsets and unexpected encounters with Family members. The hope remains that future updates and skillful players will enhance the game’s enjoyment and provide a more thrilling experience. Ultimately, while the game may not fully deliver on its promise of horror, it remains a dedicated tribute to the enduring legacy of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.
