User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 796 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 43 out of 796
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. Dec 12, 2012
    10
    For 30 years, games have been held back by the idea that 'fun' is a defining factor. Sure, I love fun, and it is one of the most powerful ways to engross a player, but imagine if all films fit under the category of fun? We wouldn't have films like Schindler's List, Hurt Locker, Apocalypse Now, and the Godfather. Our medium has never had our own Citizen Kane, or it's own Godfather. UntilFor 30 years, games have been held back by the idea that 'fun' is a defining factor. Sure, I love fun, and it is one of the most powerful ways to engross a player, but imagine if all films fit under the category of fun? We wouldn't have films like Schindler's List, Hurt Locker, Apocalypse Now, and the Godfather. Our medium has never had our own Citizen Kane, or it's own Godfather. Until now. If Spec Ops: The Line was the Apocalypse now of gaming, and Skyrim is the Lord of the Rings, The Walking Dead is the Dead Alive, and even that isn't doing it justice, as Dead Alive is the best zombie film ever. Look past the glitches, and we have a near perfect game. The puzzles are tricky and take a fair bit of though, the art style is the best use of cell-shading I've seen, the characters are well-written and have arcs, its atmosphere is very tense, and you have the urge to play it to the very end once you've picked it up. The episodes themselves were quite short, 3 hours at best, but the retail release actually makes it seem like one coherent game, instead of playing parts of a game months apart. Actions have consequences. The littlest choice has the hugest effect at the end of your game. Talk to another person who played this game and, most likely, his outcome would of been entirely different. All of this makes the Walking Dead compulsively playable, but not fun. It's not about the thrills of killing zombies, this game focuses on the realtionships between characters in a zombie apocalypse scenario, and makes you see how ordinary people can get along (and indeed fall out) in this scenario. Play it because you like Telltale, play it because you love zombies, play it because you love point and click adventure games, play it because you love substantial choice in games, play it because it's cheap, play it because you're sick of Halo, the bottom line remains the same: DO NOT MISS THE WALKING DEAD. Expand
  2. Dec 11, 2013
    8
    I like the game because the story and characters are just THAT good! The connection with the little girl Clementine is amazing. However, the choices you make don't change the story, the differences are very small. The ending wil always be essentially the same. It is short and sweet and replaying it is not a good idea, the second run detaches you from the characters and story and also it'sI like the game because the story and characters are just THAT good! The connection with the little girl Clementine is amazing. However, the choices you make don't change the story, the differences are very small. The ending wil always be essentially the same. It is short and sweet and replaying it is not a good idea, the second run detaches you from the characters and story and also it's then you start noticing how insignificant your choices are. And yet I recommend this to everyone, just because the story and characters are that damn good. Expand
  3. Jun 27, 2014
    9
    The Walking Dead gathers everything from entertainment & emotion. It had its ups and downs and maybe the time limit bothered me every now and then, but the role-playing elements keeps your attention towards the screen. One of the most unique games I've ever played. Thank you Telltale Games.
  4. Jan 13, 2014
    10
    Captures the essence of The Walking Dead Comic Book perfectly!

    This game is truly a masterpiece. The Walking Dead has fantastic gameplay that relies on the player choices moreso than anything else and the game benefits from this as there are many heart-pounding sections that require quick thinking or else the Zombies kill one of your extremeley likeable comrades! These characters are
    Captures the essence of The Walking Dead Comic Book perfectly!

    This game is truly a masterpiece. The Walking Dead has fantastic gameplay that relies on the player choices moreso than anything else and the game benefits from this as there are many heart-pounding sections that require quick thinking or else the Zombies kill one of your extremeley likeable comrades!

    These characters are even better written than they are in the TV Show and engage the player into their unique back stories that are inextricably linked to the present events. Everything feels right; not a single objective in the game seems pointless. Character development here is one of the best in this medium as each character goes through their own grim, adult and realistic arcs that are very intriguing - It sucks you in right from the get-go.

    The graphics are perfect! Brings the comic books to life better than anything else (I really wish the TV Series followed up on this style as it actually resembles the source material.)

    Overall, a true modern masterpiece and a perfect representation of The Walking Dead by Telltale Games. The Zombie genre has never been better!
    Expand
  5. May 8, 2015
    10
    By far, the best game I have ever, and will ever, play. No other game has gotten me more connected to these characters, no other game has made me feel and emote like this, **** it, in any other entertainment medium. There is just so much genius behind the game that I won't go through as that'll take a long ****ing time to talk about, just know this: This is the best game ever created andBy far, the best game I have ever, and will ever, play. No other game has gotten me more connected to these characters, no other game has made me feel and emote like this, **** it, in any other entertainment medium. There is just so much genius behind the game that I won't go through as that'll take a long ****ing time to talk about, just know this: This is the best game ever created and if you haven't played it, you better do that now. Expand
  6. Mar 22, 2013
    10
    What is there to say about this game, that hasn't already been said? The story telling is top notch, one of the best tales all of gaming has to offer. Never before have I been so involved and cared so much about the characters in a story in this medium, or any other before it. The gameplay is equally compelling. Point and click fans will no doubt love it, and even my friends who areWhat is there to say about this game, that hasn't already been said? The story telling is top notch, one of the best tales all of gaming has to offer. Never before have I been so involved and cared so much about the characters in a story in this medium, or any other before it. The gameplay is equally compelling. Point and click fans will no doubt love it, and even my friends who are normally all about action and multiplayer can't help but love it. There is more then enough action, even if it is normally displayed as a QTE or quick time event, to keep you on your toes. You'll never know when something may pop out and attack, and you'll need to fight your way out of an awful situation. Honestly, if you haven't played this game yet, do it. It's as necessary a foot note in the story telling of video games as the great classics of film. Expand
  7. Jan 17, 2014
    10
    I've always been a pretty big gamer but this was one of the first games (alongside Heavy Rain) to turn story telling into an actually like-able and fun game! Don't bother trying to hold back tears, we're all grownups here. No judging.
  8. Mar 19, 2014
    9
    I just love Walking dead - the comic book, the TV-series and the game. However considering TellTales Walking Dead a game might be to go a step to far, but not in a bad way. I consider TellTales Walking Dead series more like a “live” storybook where I as a “player” get to choose the outcome. And it’s a great story, well worth to “play through” – A real emotional roller coaster!
  9. Dec 12, 2012
    10
    One of the best stories in a game, makes you feel for the characters and regret your hard decisions even though you know in your heart it was the right choice.

    Speaking of the right choice, the right choice is to buy this now!
  10. Dec 11, 2012
    10
    Video games are art, or are they? This is a question that has been floating around the industry for years but has never truly been taken serious until this generation of gaming. In many ways it really comes down to how grounded your opinion of art is. Is art free form to you? Is it something that can only be achieved via deep principals, or is it simply anything and everything that isVideo games are art, or are they? This is a question that has been floating around the industry for years but has never truly been taken serious until this generation of gaming. In many ways it really comes down to how grounded your opinion of art is. Is art free form to you? Is it something that can only be achieved via deep principals, or is it simply anything and everything that is created as a form of expression? While I am not going to further this argument with this review, I will say this. If video games have the ability to be art simply through story telling and tapping at the spine of our emotions then Telltale Expand
  11. Mar 8, 2013
    8
    This game features a great narrative with some tense moments and great voice acting. It's a great revival for the Point-n-Click Adventure genre, and its transition to the PS3 was smoother than expected. The game does feel kind of slow and unfair at times, but the impactful and emotional moments that all five episodes have to deliver are more than enough to make up for that.
  12. Dec 13, 2012
    10
    Storytelling in gaming at it's finest. Every episode is engaging right from the start of Episode 1 to the climatic ending of Episode 5. You mold the story based on your choices. There isn't much to talk about the game, all I can say is go and buy it because I know for a fact that you will not be disappointed.
  13. Feb 18, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Tell Tale have crafted a masterpiece with their rendition of TWD, the game is full of difficult choices and ways to express the characters vulnerability. The relationship between 37 year old convicted killer Lee Everett and 8 year old Clementine is the selling point of this game. The walking dead is good at drawing emotion from the player through any means necessary, whether its by killing characters off unexpectedly, making us choose who dies or by unthinkable events, (such as having to kill a child)
    The ending leaves many a person crying and distraught, showing the games ability to draw emotions from the audience. My GOTY 2012. All in all, Tell Tale have struck video game gold.
    Expand
  14. Dec 31, 2012
    10
    When I first heard that this game had won Game of the Year I though that was supposed to be a joke; I mean, in a year with Borderlands 2, Assassins Creed 3, XCOM, Resident Evil 6, Journey and so many fantastic games I must say I was very skeptical about The Walking Dead the Game. But then... I PLAYED it. And I must agree. The Walking Dead IS THE GAMING EXPERIENCE of 2012. Never before haveWhen I first heard that this game had won Game of the Year I though that was supposed to be a joke; I mean, in a year with Borderlands 2, Assassins Creed 3, XCOM, Resident Evil 6, Journey and so many fantastic games I must say I was very skeptical about The Walking Dead the Game. But then... I PLAYED it. And I must agree. The Walking Dead IS THE GAMING EXPERIENCE of 2012. Never before have I ever experienced such an intense game. I didn't play it - it PLAYED me. My fears, my adrenaline, my remorse, guilt, doubt. It got me constantly thinking about my steps and decisions and really worrying about the people around me. It reminded me of Heavy Rain, some how, but it went further; it took more risks. The Walking Dead The Game is not afraid of chocking or disturbing. Believe me: IT'S ALL THERE. This game must not be missed. Expand
  15. Dec 14, 2012
    10
    This game is a must have. It
  16. Feb 27, 2013
    10
    In all of the years that I played video games, I've never come across a game like Telltale's "The Walking Dead".
    I've never felt the emotion of when a friendly character dies in any other video game I have ever played.
    And while it is true that there is not much gameplay, the story makes up for it as you change the future of yourself and every character around you with every choice you
    In all of the years that I played video games, I've never come across a game like Telltale's "The Walking Dead".
    I've never felt the emotion of when a friendly character dies in any other video game I have ever played.
    And while it is true that there is not much gameplay, the story makes up for it as you change the future of yourself and every character around you with every choice you make, or sometimes even saying a particular sentence.
    The guy you play as is a very likeable and charismatic character, as are the rest of the people you'll meet along the way. And while some characters aren't nice to you, you'll never know what happens to them or yourself next.
    Play it, and love it.
    Expand
  17. Jan 30, 2013
    10
    This game is one of the most immersive I have ever had the privilege to play. Although it doesn't feature revolutionary technology and graphics, the most appealing factor is the story and the characters. Presented to us in the form of a TV show with consistent episode releases, The Walking Dead is so cleverly written and performed by voice actors that you become so attached to theThis game is one of the most immersive I have ever had the privilege to play. Although it doesn't feature revolutionary technology and graphics, the most appealing factor is the story and the characters. Presented to us in the form of a TV show with consistent episode releases, The Walking Dead is so cleverly written and performed by voice actors that you become so attached to the characters. You begin to care so much that you are very often given a choice that will affect who lives and who dies, which is the closest to being in control that a gamer could ever be. I fell in love with the characters and story, with so many twists and turns, and I didn't want the experience to end. The level of choice and interaction with the game is splendid, giving a new perspective to point-and-click games. This game is a benchmark in gaming and deserves to become an inspiration to others in the industry. Expand
  18. Apr 21, 2013
    10
    I read a review from a member saying the storyline is linear, I laughed and i must say it is anything but! you make choices which can impact the next 3 episodes of the game, even small things like if you swear infront of a kid, 2 episodes later the kid will swear because you swore! and if you choose not to, it doesnt.
    It is so emotional and gripping, but i can assure you as an 18 year old
    I read a review from a member saying the storyline is linear, I laughed and i must say it is anything but! you make choices which can impact the next 3 episodes of the game, even small things like if you swear infront of a kid, 2 episodes later the kid will swear because you swore! and if you choose not to, it doesnt.
    It is so emotional and gripping, but i can assure you as an 18 year old guy I did definitly not cry............ okay, i did
    Expand
  19. Dec 28, 2012
    9
    Just a heads up I have played all 5 episodes of The Walking Dead, but I downloaded them off of Playstation Network, so this isn't a review of this disc set, it's a review of what I think of all 5 episodes as a whole and the score you see is an average of the score I gave to each individual episode. To learn more about each episode individually please read my reviews of them. Telltale GamesJust a heads up I have played all 5 episodes of The Walking Dead, but I downloaded them off of Playstation Network, so this isn't a review of this disc set, it's a review of what I think of all 5 episodes as a whole and the score you see is an average of the score I gave to each individual episode. To learn more about each episode individually please read my reviews of them. Telltale Games has created a masterpiece, it's emotional, intense, dark, and an excellent addition to the Walking Dead universe. In this game your tasked with two things, protecting a little girl and making decisions that will effect every step of your journey until the credits roll and your adventure ends. The story is excellently written and ties in perfectly with the comic book universe. It's filled with moments that will stick with you long after you've played it and characters you care about. The only complaint I really have with the game are it's technical issues. The Walking Dead: A Telltale Games Series is one the best games of the year and if you haven't played it yet you really need to. It's nothing less than a true masterpiece. Expand
  20. Jan 29, 2013
    10
    Definitely an unique experience in the gaming realm. Often times great story telling is hindered in games by gameplay, especially of the RPG grind variety. That is of course assuming a great story is even in a game or if it is simply getting by on gameplay.

    The Walking Dead moves fast and the story never lets up. While one would assume it would be more like a traditional puzzle
    Definitely an unique experience in the gaming realm. Often times great story telling is hindered in games by gameplay, especially of the RPG grind variety. That is of course assuming a great story is even in a game or if it is simply getting by on gameplay.

    The Walking Dead moves fast and the story never lets up. While one would assume it would be more like a traditional puzzle adventure game it does not play that way. The narrative is not slowed down. Like another great game this year, 'Journey' the story and feelings invoked stay with you long after the game is finished.

    I find it odd that Heavy Rain is often compared to this. I gave HR two hours, but it never really got past monotony. There could have been a good story, but no one I knew ever got to it. The Walking Dead does not require investment time before it gets good, it simply is good from start to finish.

    Few games I would describe as a must play for a gamer. This one is a must play.
    Expand
  21. Feb 11, 2014
    7
    Positive:
    Novelty
    The Game plays like a Movie
    I like the characters.

    Negative:
    Linear story line
    Somehow, I do not feel like playing The Walking Dead 2. Maybe I am sick of it.
  22. Dec 30, 2014
    8
    Season one of The Walking Dead games is a true cinematic experience with great comic book style graphics, a very touching story, and the mechanic of having every small decision affect the story. Just keep in mind that one of the chapters is kind of boring and there are some de-syncing glitches here and there.
  23. Feb 16, 2013
    10
    An amazing game with good storytelling and emotional impact. This game is a must-have, it has depth and tension. You owe it to yourself to play this game. It is absolutely a masterpiece.
  24. Dec 31, 2012
    9
    This is definitely one of the greatest games I've ever played. It's very possibly that you might crawl up into a fetal position and sob if you play this game, but still a great game. I gave it a nine though because the amount of language is overkill, otherwise awesome game.
  25. Jan 12, 2013
    6
    Great art style, and great narrative equals a fun experience for a good price but without replay value because your choices really do not affect the storyline. Well worth the 4 dollars I spent renting it.
  26. Jun 27, 2013
    3
    I don't understand the fascination with this "game." Sure, it had a couple of high points, but for the most part I found it is an extremely slow and boring experience. I don't qualify "decision-making" as gameplay.
  27. Mar 20, 2013
    9
    this game may not be another call of duty shoot em up but it does have so much emotion and mind boggling choices that make you look at your inner self. i cannot wait for season two. this also comes in number 2 for games of 2012 for me
  28. Feb 7, 2013
    2
    This is not a game; it is an interactive movie, and I use the term loosely. It it not nearly as interactive as other non-games like Indigo Prophecy or Heavy Rain. The choices presented almost never matter. You either choose one of four things to say, which are basically the same thing restated, or you go through the few choices given until you are left with the one that advances theThis is not a game; it is an interactive movie, and I use the term loosely. It it not nearly as interactive as other non-games like Indigo Prophecy or Heavy Rain. The choices presented almost never matter. You either choose one of four things to say, which are basically the same thing restated, or you go through the few choices given until you are left with the one that advances the story. Then you walk around and find people to talk to or look at. I thought this would be much more of an adventure games with more inventory items or puzzles. I knew it would have a "choose your own adventure" quality to it, but I didn't realize the choices were almost non-existent. It is the equivalent of watching a poorly-animated direct-to-DVD movie, except your DVD player pauses every few minutes and then you have to pick up the remote and press a button to get it to continue.
    I really don't get it. Practically no puzzles. Pretty much no action. Just dialogue and wandering around.
    Game of the Year? How did that happen?
    The art style is adequate for this type of thing, and most of the voice acting (with the exception of the horribly grating little girl) is decent. OK story, but just read the comics. They are better and nearly as interactive.
    What a disappointment. I'm glad I just rented it.
    Expand
  29. Jan 18, 2013
    3
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Rent, don't buy. My biggest gripe with this game is the ending. Mild Spoiler - none of your choices matter AT ALL. All the fun I had playing the game (of which there was plenty) was completely stripped away by the ending, which is the same no matter what you do, what you say or who you try to save. There is no pay-off. A game like Heavy Rain is much better in this regard since there are multiple endings, and your earlier actions drastically affect how the game turns out, who you save and who is alive/dead. One option allows you to save everyone, and another lets them all die, and so much in between. Characters can die but they don't have to if you save them. But in the Walking Dead everyone who dies will die. I was very keen to replay this game right until the final moment. Now, why would I bother? It makes no difference. Meh... Expand
  30. Dec 28, 2013
    1
    This was the worst game I have played in a long time. Worst game of the year! The graphics are bland, the gameplay is non-existing, the story is slow, and the time I invested was wasted. The only reason I am not giving this game a complete 0/10 is I feel bad for the designers.
Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 6 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. Play UK
    May 27, 2013
    92
    A gaming experience that is truly unlike any other, The Walking Dead should be required playing for anyone who considers themselves a fan of our favourite medium. [Issue#231, p.76]
  2. Mar 17, 2013
    90
    It deserves it as well, because The Walking Dead is a great game, one that truly pushes what can be done with a video game narrative that cannot be done in film or TV.
  3. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Jan 29, 2013
    90
    Believable dialogue from rounded characters who behave as you'd expect real people to. [Feb 2013, p.106]