My first few hours with the new Texas Chain Saw Massacre game from Gun Interactive did not yield the most positive gaming experience that I have had this year. This mostly stemmed from the fact that although the game is an asymmetric online experience with no couch co-op functionality, FandomWire was only given one single review code for this title.
This meant that rather than being able to immediately jump into a quick and easy private match with a few colleagues, I instead was forced to spend hours hunting for matches before I could even experience what the game had to offer. Presumably this wait won’t be as brutal for those picking up the game after the release date, but the online pre-release environment was a frustratingly lonely experience.
Once I eventually did manage to play a match as both the Family and the Victims, I was fairly pleased with what I found. Despite a handful of technical issues which will hopefully get ironed out as time goes on, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a decently bloody, fun time that manages to pay homage to the original film in a way that feels respectful.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre releases on August 18th and will be available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
One thing that The Texas Chain Saw Massacre game absolutely nails, is its ability to pay tribute to the renowned horror classic that serves as its main inspiration in a way that feels genuine. The game’s release date even falls on the 50th anniversary of the original film’s events, which is such a nice touch. This adaptations manages to aptly capture the series’ significant impact on the horror genre as a whole, while also offering a fairly fresh take on the tired sub-genre that is asymmetrical horror.
Gun Interactive’s last foray into asymmetrical gameplay based on an iconic horror franchise came in the form of Friday the 13th: The Game, so this is a format that the studio is already comfortable with and it shows. This setup essentially pits two teams against each other – Victims versus Family. However, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre deviates from the standard ratio of 4v1, by introducing seven-player matches, with four victims and three family members. This simple departure from the norm works to add a feeling of complexity and uniqueness to each match.
Gun Interactive’s attention to detail shines as the game seamlessly integrates the franchise’s essence into asymmetrical horror gameplay. As Victims, players must navigate a treacherous path through the iconic farmhouse to escape Leatherface’s pursuit, making each match a dynamic and unpredictable experience. Every character on the Family side; from Leatherface to newcomers, offers distinct advantages and strategies, which enhances gameplay variety.
The game also features a pretty intricate skill tree and progression system. Here, players can customize characters with unique abilities and stats, gained through experience. The perks on offer can be used in tandem with one another to add strategic advantages, allowing for creative approaches to gameplay, such as highlighting escape routes or disrupting opponents.
With all of that said, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre does feature a fairly steep learning curve, which may drive away some more casual players. The first few matches can seem unfairly balanced, with victims succumbing to experienced family members very quickly. Balance adjustments may be something that is introduced over time to level the playing field, as currently matches initially favor the family team.
Despite these potential imbalances however, the game excels in delivering intense chase sequences, mirroring the tension-filled pursuit sequences that the franchise is known for. The dark, gritty environments add to this, as does the varied range of escape options on offer.
Also read: Trepang2 Review: Shoot Your Way Out (PC)
In summary, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre marks a pretty consistent continuation of Gun Interactive’s success in the sub-genre of asymmetrical horror. By maintaining reverence for the source material while pushing genre boundaries, the game offers a chilling and authentic-feeling experience.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre Game – 7/10
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre was reviewed on PC with a code supplied to FandomWire by Evolve PR.
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