The Evil Within

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2497 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,894 out of 2497
  2. Mixed: 337 out of 2497
  3. Negative: 266 out of 2497
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  1. Donor
    Oct 15, 2014
    7
    This game is FAR away from being a masterpiece. The users who gave this game a 10/10 probably haven't played a lot of "old school" survival horror games in their life. It’s the typical 15-20 year old naive kid who fell for the Shinji Mikami hype obviously. Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed playing but...

    This game is published by Bethesda, which explains the clunky gameplay. It’s almost    This game is FAR away from being a masterpiece. The users who gave this game a 10/10 probably haven't played a lot of "old school" survival horror games in their life. It’s the typical 15-20 year old naive kid who fell for the Shinji Mikami hype obviously. Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed playing but...

    This game is published by Bethesda, which explains the clunky gameplay. It’s almost like hybrid copy/paste of The Elder Scrolls movement and Resident Evil 4 shooting. The constant crouching for stealth is retarded (especially the animation that just look plain stupid), they even carried over the same Elder Scrolls "detection eye" into this game. It fails on its own standard when it comes to stealth gameplay. The shooting is AWFUL. Its under par with Resident Evil 4, WHICH IS 9 YEARS OLD! Come on!

    The story is ****ing borderline progressive, with no psychological build-up whatsoever, the voice-acting is dull… And lets not talk about the main character who always makes these stupid comments. It's just so uninteresting and unoriginal in every way possible... I almost don't know if i'm playing RE4, Silent Hill or even watching Friday the 13th or The Grudge at the same time, all in this STUPID 16:9 aspect ratio letterbox that they've chosen to have in this game because it gives a “cinematic feeling”. I call bs, they only did that because of performance issues, and it’s still locked on 30 fps. This is a joke.

    I mean is this next gen? The standard of Survival Horror genre is getting lower and lower and lower. The only thing that made me wanna keep playing this game is it's setting. This game looks stunning in some cases and it certainly has it's thrilling moments when and it can get a bit scary. But everything can be scary if it’s done the right way.

    What players fail to understand is that nothing of this matters if the STORY/ACTING and GAMEPLAY is s***. Games like these used to be authentic even if the gameplay was a bit "sluggish" back in the days. And that's because the story was told in such a good and believable way which compensated for it's slower gameplay. Look at The Last of Us, They bring nothing new to the table in terms of gameplay and mechanics. But they perfected it, COMBINED with the storytelling.

    The Evil Within just failed to reach above the standard of already existing old school survival horror titles. So how can this even be considered a Survival Horror masterpiece? Grow up!    … Expand
  2. Axlyss
    Oct 15, 2014
    5
    The game is so so while it has good story telling elements in some spots it suffers heavily on others. Scares are almost non existent the 'scary' element of this game is one big cliche. The characters are fun but lack depth. The game does take some time to beat which is a plus, The game has awesome camera effects stellar even.

    At the end of the day I could not bring myself to like the    The game is so so while it has good story telling elements in some spots it suffers heavily on others. Scares are almost non existent the 'scary' element of this game is one big cliche. The characters are fun but lack depth. The game does take some time to beat which is a plus, The game has awesome camera effects stellar even.

    At the end of the day I could not bring myself to like the characters or the plot.    … Expand
  3. DSX714
    Oct 15, 2014
    5
    Really disappointing. Combat is horrible, Melee is useless half the time, You can waste all your ammo on one enemy and take multiple head shots to kill. There's no hit detection with the bullets alot of the time. Camera is very cramped, Hard to tell where enemies are. Stealth is very slow and requires alot of patience and if you have to keep reloading a checkpoint due to the broken combatReally disappointing. Combat is horrible, Melee is useless half the time, You can waste all your ammo on one enemy and take multiple head shots to kill. There's no hit detection with the bullets alot of the time. Camera is very cramped, Hard to tell where enemies are. Stealth is very slow and requires alot of patience and if you have to keep reloading a checkpoint due to the broken combat you will keep doing these slow stealth segments ALOT. Save points are scarce. Saving the game is very outdated save points take a bit to come across which once you find one can take you a good 30 seconds or more just to begin overwriting the data because of the process you have to go through. Story provides very little detail and the cast isn't too in depth. Screen is very fuzzy which is a filter that just makes the resolution look worse than it is. All in all a very 'meh' game. Was really disappointed as I was looking forward to this one.… Expand
  4. Shotsfired
    Oct 15, 2014
    10
    First of all me giving this a 10/10 doest mean its a flawless game because they don't exist. So im going to start with the bad points in this game, So the first thing you will noticed is that the games texture and overall graphics aren't to great but they are something you will stop to notice as you play. No for the good bits. This game is a true survival horror it has the feel of aFirst of all me giving this a 10/10 doest mean its a flawless game because they don't exist. So im going to start with the bad points in this game, So the first thing you will noticed is that the games texture and overall graphics aren't to great but they are something you will stop to notice as you play. No for the good bits. This game is a true survival horror it has the feel of a resident evil game mix in horror games such as outlast or silent hill. This game is HARD there are some bits which will really annoy you but the game does a good job at pulling you back in for another go at it. Overall this game is great although its not for every one.… Expand
  5. quigonjim007
    Oct 15, 2014
    10
    I haven't been this freaked out and low on ammo since I was introduced to Pyramid Head. This game successfully puts survival horror back on the map. Hopefully Capcom will take note with the Resident Evil series. Well Done Mikami!!!
  6. thehenman
    Oct 15, 2014
    5
    Ok where to begin. Got this game having been a fan of survival horror for years. Just playing through alien isolation thinking that although flawed at times it is a very well made game. Full of suspense terror and slow paced with good controlles and great visuals. This big to issues are camera positioning and low frame rate as well perhaps as terrible last last gen controls of 10 yearsOk where to begin. Got this game having been a fan of survival horror for years. Just playing through alien isolation thinking that although flawed at times it is a very well made game. Full of suspense terror and slow paced with good controlles and great visuals. This big to issues are camera positioning and low frame rate as well perhaps as terrible last last gen controls of 10 years ago. No having crap controls do not make a game harder just more frustrating. The letterbox style visuals would be great if the framerate was not so low that you can not see what the hellmyou are doing hen it all kicks off. Add in the TERRIBLE camera angles and cramped spaces it makes for a very miserable experience. I placed about 3 hours until I sent it back to my rental service. His is not a scary or enjoyable game Ben the enemies are generic zombies most of the time. If you are thinking this will be the next gen horror game to have please think again. Play alien its way better.… Expand
  7. partyintheback
    Oct 15, 2014
    10
    Simply outstanding in every single way. Tense, horrific, survival horror in detailed and gorgeous environments. Mikami has delivered the best survival horror game of its kind in recent memory.
  8. JoshLuck1995
    Oct 15, 2014
    4
    Played the game yesterday and today, and thats enough, i just cant play anymore, its so boring and flat so i thought well its time to give it some scores on what i think should define a game review

    graphics - 6/10 gameplay - 6/10 story - 4/10 sound - non existent lasting appeal - none i give Evil Within a 4/10. It is a 99p version of resident evil, the graphics are crap for    Played the game yesterday and today, and thats enough, i just cant play anymore, its so boring and flat so i thought well its time to give it some scores on what i think should define a game review

    graphics - 6/10
    gameplay - 6/10
    story - 4/10
    sound - non existent
    lasting appeal - none

    i give Evil Within a 4/10. It is a 99p version of resident evil, the graphics are crap for X1/PS4, the story is flat, the main protagonist is boring, the enemies are stupid, and the levels feel the same and are also boring. was really looking forward to this but sadly it dissapoints.    … Expand
  9. babaganush
    Oct 15, 2014
    8
    i liked the past resident evil games and if you have played those then you would not be ripping into this game for having a lack of/confusing story i dont remember getting too much from those games besides them showing up and then getting attacked and all the cutscenes were always showing off a boss or new thing to kill.

    the guy made 3-4 of the resident evil games but you expect him to    i liked the past resident evil games and if you have played those then you would not be ripping into this game for having a lack of/confusing story i dont remember getting too much from those games besides them showing up and then getting attacked and all the cutscenes were always showing off a boss or new thing to kill.

    the guy made 3-4 of the resident evil games but you expect him to go way different with it. i am currently into chapter 3, i have died once. you say it is confusing on where to go, those levels where it gets confusing just means you have to explore and make it through the area, a shanty town/forest whatever else, it wants you to get misdirected because it has traps everywhere and is trying to kill you. thats the whole point of all of it, you survive while it is trying to kill you, it is not going tell you the exact path to go and make it out of the village area, its gonna give you different ways to go so that you can avoid or run into more traps or find more items. explore.

    it is a fun game, i enjoy it, i dont expect it to get any easier, im expecting it to get harder and that is a good thing, people who say the game is really difficult are probally just running through the area and running into traps while punching everyone, obviously not gonna work and it didnt work in any resident evil game, it also didnt work in the last of us. also stop comparing it to one of the best games ever, not too many games will stack up but if we are comparing things to the last of us, then every game sucks and should get a 0 because it wasnt as good as that game.

    also no character in any resident evil, silent hill has ever showed much or any emotion yet those games are considered legends. go ahead and play them if you dont believe me, they just kinda looked disturbed and slightly shocked at best. like destiny it has suffered from too much hype but is a good game and is fun and complaining or giving low scores for framerate or black bars or graphics are not god-like. apparently your 12 and didnt play any games before the ps3 or 360. your not a gamer, your a paid complainer or just a whiner all on your own which is even worse.    … Expand
  10. beladrim
    Oct 15, 2014
    7
    A true old-school survival horror that finally succeds where RE has been failing since RE5. While i enjoyed this game overall, it was far from perfect. So let me ge the bad out of the way!

    1) THe frame rate drops down a lot of time. This is not acceptable for a next gem game. 2) The two black bars on the top and bottom of the screen are supposed to give you a cinematic feel, but in    A true old-school survival horror that finally succeds where RE has been failing since RE5. While i enjoyed this game overall, it was far from perfect. So let me ge the bad out of the way!

    1) THe frame rate drops down a lot of time. This is not acceptable for a next gem game.

    2) The two black bars on the top and bottom of the screen are supposed to give you a cinematic feel, but in all honesty. It just reduces the screen size. THis should have been "optional"

    3) The acting is terrible.

    4) The story has a LOT of plot holes!

    I am glad to see a new successor to RE, but sadly a lot of bad decisions were made on this one.

    Still, if you are a fan of old-school survivor horror, this game is for you. If not. Don't bother with this game.    … Expand
  11. Rem
    Oct 15, 2014
    6
    While the scares are genuine and the visuals are terrific, it does not save the fact that The Evil Within has a lacking plot with a comically bad protagonist who seems detached from every situation. The frames tend to dip, and the shooting mechanics are competent but not excellent. However the best and worst this game has to offer is its difficulty. It can be brutally difficult andWhile the scares are genuine and the visuals are terrific, it does not save the fact that The Evil Within has a lacking plot with a comically bad protagonist who seems detached from every situation. The frames tend to dip, and the shooting mechanics are competent but not excellent. However the best and worst this game has to offer is its difficulty. It can be brutally difficult and challenging which leads to exciting and tense moments when you are on low ammo, but tends to lean on unfair at times which feels rather cheap.… Expand
  12. Deschain89
    Oct 15, 2014
    8
    Great gameplay, good atmosphere, and a couple of scares make this game a solid purchase for those who are craving a good survival horror experience. A return to form: feels like the revered Resident Evil 4, and plays like The Last of Us, a combination that will satisfy those more action oriented, even if run and gun tactics are highly discouraged in this game, ammo is scarce, and you haveGreat gameplay, good atmosphere, and a couple of scares make this game a solid purchase for those who are craving a good survival horror experience. A return to form: feels like the revered Resident Evil 4, and plays like The Last of Us, a combination that will satisfy those more action oriented, even if run and gun tactics are highly discouraged in this game, ammo is scarce, and you have to make every bullet count.

    It doesn't rank higher for it's lackluster story, and uncharismatic lead character. However, with such solid gameplay, it is a sin I am willing to forgive. Lastly, it reminds me of a simpler time: No token gay character talking about his husband, hamfisted social issues, nor women who can overpower crocodiles with ease.

    This is a game, a good one at that. It's not art, it won't tell you to check your privilege, and it sure as hell won't win any awards with the SJW crowd. But it's challenging and fun, and that is what most of us want from a game in this day and age.    … Expand
  13. The_Darkness
    Oct 15, 2014
    3
    I Dont want to speak about the graphics(is not better from last of us) or the gameplay.
    The only thing i want to say is who have that stupid idea with the black bars???
    Really make update on the game if its impossible and change them. 4 points for the black bars and i hear the order 1886 also have black bars... no way to buy them is better for me to play again and again the last of    I Dont want to speak about the graphics(is not better from last of us) or the gameplay.
    The only thing i want to say is who have that stupid idea with the black bars???
    Really make update on the game if its impossible and change them.
    4 points for the black bars
    and i hear the order 1886 also have black bars... no way to buy them
    is better for me to play again and again the last of us.
    The game is scary yes....but i am big dissapointed now and i dont have good things to say.    … Expand
  14. hemmo1986
    Oct 15, 2014
    9
    While not quite living up to the heights of Mikami's Resident Evil golden age, it's some of his finest work and currently the best survival horror game this year and probably will be for a while to come.

    People beware this is not an ACTION game, this is survival horror, so if your not a fan of survival horror give it a pass but if you like this genre than your in for a treat!
  15. shawn400ft
    Oct 15, 2014
    7
    At first the setting and the story show promise. The environments are spooky and well detailed. The frustration of "What Do I Do????" starts almost immediately. The old saying if at first you don't succeed applies because it takes a lot of repetition in order to figure out how to advance. The acting is poor and over all the game really does not have a next gen feel. Gameplay has beenAt first the setting and the story show promise. The environments are spooky and well detailed. The frustration of "What Do I Do????" starts almost immediately. The old saying if at first you don't succeed applies because it takes a lot of repetition in order to figure out how to advance. The acting is poor and over all the game really does not have a next gen feel. Gameplay has been linear for the most part and combat is clunky. I am an enormous fan of the Survival Horror genre and I only gave this 7 out of 10. If you are not a fan, don't waste your money.… Expand
  16. darthsouheil
    Oct 15, 2014
    10
    Absolutely amazing , the environments are varied and wonderful as well as creepy . The Survival Horror aspects are definitiely there and in large amounts , it is exactly how I expected the return to survival Horror by Shinji Mikami to be .
  17. slctoast
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Personally, I love that this game is hard. It offers challenge truly not offered in many of today's games. Every now and then I am forced to take a break, and try again when i am refreshed and my senses are sharpened. But, since I have no idea what disturbing scenario or ghoulish monstrosity is going to be around the next turn, I keep coming back hungry for more. The controls and cameraPersonally, I love that this game is hard. It offers challenge truly not offered in many of today's games. Every now and then I am forced to take a break, and try again when i am refreshed and my senses are sharpened. But, since I have no idea what disturbing scenario or ghoulish monstrosity is going to be around the next turn, I keep coming back hungry for more. The controls and camera are smooth and polished. Every part of the game feels cinematic, and the scenes in your direct control. Solid addition to any Survival-Horror fan's library.… Expand
  18. Wolfmoon2682
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    The amount of PC Elitists giving this game a zero because of the framerate is ridiculous! This is not a first person shooter! You don't notice slowdown in a game that plays like TeW and besides that dropping the rating to a ZERO and completely neglecting the gameplay is asinine at best! This is why no one takes metacritic serious anymore! Others are dropping 10's to compensate for theThe amount of PC Elitists giving this game a zero because of the framerate is ridiculous! This is not a first person shooter! You don't notice slowdown in a game that plays like TeW and besides that dropping the rating to a ZERO and completely neglecting the gameplay is asinine at best! This is why no one takes metacritic serious anymore! Others are dropping 10's to compensate for the 0's... so what metacritic is devolving into is a shouting match of 0's and 10's and no one gives a fair assessment! The game is good, not amazing, but it's good. Shinji Mikami is a legend and this game feels like a mix of REmake, RE4 and a heavy dose of Silent Hill. If you enjoy survival horror then you will enjoy this game! The graphics could be better but they are not terrible like some people have been saying. The controls are tight and are NOT floaty but the camera and viewpoint is. I'm guessing it was made that way to give a sense of clostrophobia but it does get on your nerves until you adjust to it. The game is hard and brutal just the way true survival horror fans want it! IGNORE the haters! Survival Horror is back!… Expand
  19. imthedoctor84
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    If you are a true survival horror fan you will love it. The people complaining about this game just don't get it. Its probably to much of a challenge for them and they don't have the patience. For me 10/10
  20. blopho
    Oct 14, 2014
    3
    What a disappointment. Where do I begin?

    First of all the game is in 16:9 ratio--which isn't a bad thing in itself except that they decided to include those obnoxious black bars at the top and bottom of the screen. What the hell is this?! I realize the intention was to make the game seem more cinematic but the fact that I'm controlling everything the character on the screen does acutely    What a disappointment. Where do I begin?

    First of all the game is in 16:9 ratio--which isn't a bad thing in itself except that they decided to include those obnoxious black bars at the top and bottom of the screen. What the hell is this?! I realize the intention was to make the game seem more cinematic but the fact that I'm controlling everything the character on the screen does acutely reminds me that I'm playing a video game as opposed to watching a movie, so why bother?

    Second of all, the controls. They would be tolerable if not for one thing, the camera. In RE4--a game where a control scheme like this actually worked--the camera would be fixed behind leon with him being SLIGHTLY to the left of center. Then, when he would draw his weapon, the camera would jump to his right shoulder and give the player a more clear field of vision to work with. In this game the camera is not fixed, but instead floats in a very awkward way; when the camera is directly behind the character, he's pushed ALL THE WAY to the left. To make matters worse it is very difficult to see around him. Essentially this creates a blind spot. Then when you take into account the camera can't see anything to his left without the player manually moving it--because that's where the edge of the screen is--there is second massive blind spot that you can only see by rotating the already-clunky camera around. Also the camera gets hung up on walls and obstacles with is very distracting.

    Which brings me to my third biggest complaint about this game, the framerate. It's bad. A lot of people on this site complained about it having "last-gen graphics" but I found the opposite to be true. The developers of this game spent so much time polishing the environments that they forgot that the framerate would suffer. Either that or they just didn't care. The character models are nothing to complain about but it's EXTREMELY noticeable that the framerate isn't keeping up when you're looking around. The game would be soooo much more immersive if this wasn't an issue. But sadly, it is.

    My last complaint and ultimately the biggest one is that there's nothing here you haven't seen before if you've played Resident Evil 4 or 5, Dead Space, or any other similar third-person survival-horror/action hybrid game. The environments feel like they've been ripped off from a different game.

    There goes $64 I'm never gonna see again. Since I've bought my PS4 I've owned four different games and of those four only one has been a 9/10 or 10/10. Games like this really are making me think that the future of gaming is going to be nothing more than games that get enormous amounts of hype and build-up, then turn out to be mediocre. Game like this are starting to make me regret picking up a PS4.    … Expand
  21. aandrew610
    Oct 14, 2014
    5
    The evil within is disappointing. The atmosphere and story are alright but its plagued by gameplay issues. The animations look unfinished and rushed and there is no sense of feeling in combat i feel as if i am punching air in moments.
  22. edco20
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    All I got to say is wow. Shinji Mikami creator of Resident Evil and father of survival horror comes back to save the genre and man did he PULL IT OFF ! First and foremost this game isn't for everybody. Its solely made for true hardcore fans of survival horror. If that's your type of thing well… WHY ARE YOU STILL READING ? GET IT NOW ! Lol all jokes aside, I really love the ambience andAll I got to say is wow. Shinji Mikami creator of Resident Evil and father of survival horror comes back to save the genre and man did he PULL IT OFF ! First and foremost this game isn't for everybody. Its solely made for true hardcore fans of survival horror. If that's your type of thing well… WHY ARE YOU STILL READING ? GET IT NOW ! Lol all jokes aside, I really love the ambience and music in the game. It definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. Also the AI are incredibly terrifying and smart, too smart actually. They definitely will push you to your limit, which from time to time they give you no choice but to run. This game has it all, from ammo and health limitations, puzzles, and frightening moments. This game definitely gives me great hope to future survival horror titles. It isn't dead yet baby !!… Expand
  23. willwardley
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Exactly what you would expect from Mikami. The story telling may not match up to the heights of the last of us, but it makes up for this in other areas.
    I feel a lot of negative criticism coming for this game are people finding it to difficult, which for me is no reason to complain, unfortunately I have to draw on the last of us again for a comparison, this is a far more difficult game    Exactly what you would expect from Mikami. The story telling may not match up to the heights of the last of us, but it makes up for this in other areas.
    I feel a lot of negative criticism coming for this game are people finding it to difficult, which for me is no reason to complain, unfortunately I have to draw on the last of us again for a comparison, this is a far more difficult game and for good reason. The evil within is about being an old school survival horror, rather than an emotional story with bits of gameplay.

    If you come to this game wanting an old school style survival horror, similar to RE4, you will not be disappointed.    … Expand
  24. Gordono
    Oct 14, 2014
    3
    What a disappointment. The graphics are weak, very last gen. and there’s something about the cropping of the game, maybe it’s the letterbox format, but you always seem to be standing in your own way. The controls are terrible; you’re constantly getting stuck on some unseen obstacle, and the third person camera is madding; it’s always getting lost in a wall or a hay bale, or a zombie’sWhat a disappointment. The graphics are weak, very last gen. and there’s something about the cropping of the game, maybe it’s the letterbox format, but you always seem to be standing in your own way. The controls are terrible; you’re constantly getting stuck on some unseen obstacle, and the third person camera is madding; it’s always getting lost in a wall or a hay bale, or a zombie’s shoulder, or your own head. The combat is lame; it’s not a shooter or a stealth game, it does neither well. Survival/ horror give me a break, there’s nothing scary or suspenseful about the game, it’s just a bad zombie game with a terrible and unsatisfying combat system. It’s not difficult, it’s just frustrating. It’s the lousy camera and terrible controls that make it hard; the biggest challenge in the game is overcoming its shortfalls. This is possibly one of the worst games I’ve played in a long time, a waste of sixty bucks and I can’t believe the great reviews it got from the main stream gaming community.… Expand
  25. Rainwhole
    Oct 14, 2014
    8
    At it's core, The Evil Within is a mesmerizing adrenaline filled gore-fest, that at it's core is a truly fun game.

    Now, let's get something out of the way. The Evil Within is not a fantastic looking game, with constant texture popping and drastic frame rate drops. The game was clearly in development for last gen consoles, but later shifted to next gen. However, this does not indicate    At it's core, The Evil Within is a mesmerizing adrenaline filled gore-fest, that at it's core is a truly fun game.

    Now, let's get something out of the way. The Evil Within is not a fantastic looking game, with constant texture popping and drastic frame rate drops. The game was clearly in development for last gen consoles, but later shifted to next gen. However, this does not indicate that the game lacks great art direction and atmosphere. In fact, those two things are some of the best aspects of the game. So on that basis, this game is most enjoyed for those looking to appreciate solid artistic work, instead of technically impressive graphic achievement.

    The story, well to not spoil anything for anyone. The store is fine, on the most part is quite intriguing and it does hit a few high points. However, many plot points don't deliver and many sub-plot points are abandoned entirely. The main character, Sebastian Castellanos, is an appealing enough protagonist that doesn't meet the compelling nature of a character like Joel (Last of Us), but he is a step forward from the one dimensional characters we have come to love from the Resident Evil franchise (Chris Redfield, Leon S. Kennedy, and Jill Valentine). The antagonist/villain Rubrik is actually pretty awesome, sort of a combination between Albert Wesker (Resident Evil) and Pyramid Head (Silent Hill 2)

    The gameplay is truly fun, and it hits all the right points of a survival horror game. Ammunition and assets are limited, and is very easy to get careless and get surrounded by enemies of fall right into a trap. So in other words, the game always remains truly interested until the very end.

    So here is my final verdict... If you've wanted this game for months now, then you probably already have it. If you're on the fence about it, then ask yourself: "Do I enjoy Resident Evil 4 or Dead Space?", if you answer "yes" to either of those games than this is a buy for you. If you stand at the other side of the rope, you're not a particular huge fan of Resident Evil or the other big horror franchises in gaming, than don't bother with it. You won't get a kick out of it as much as someone who loves the Resident Evil franchise. With that said, be prepared for a lot of cool references to the Resident Evil games, in particular RE1 and RE4. And if you enjoy Mikami's work as much as me, keep your eyes open for a couple cool Dino Crisis references :).

    Welcome back Mikami! Here's hoping the Evil Within becomes a strong franchise in gaming, and that Tango GameWorks is here for the long run!    … Expand
  26. SpaceNinja
    Oct 14, 2014
    0
    Game is default running at 30 fps and there is no option in settings to make it higher, you need to enable it in console. The game has black bars on top and bottom on the screen that is used only to cut your screen and make it smaller, no real reason. Voice acting and dialoge is extremely bad. Overall game is a really bad console port.
  27. Johangir
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    its a good time for the AAA survival horror genre. terrifying ambience, really tough gameplay (in the Dark Souls style of natural difficulty, not scripted trial-and-error), and the graphics are also pretty good. horror or not, Shinji Mikami's games are always a blast to play through, and this is no exception
  28. TheStalestLoaf
    Oct 14, 2014
    3
    I've only made it to the third chapter and I'm completely disgusted with the state of the game. First of all, the game isn't displayed in 1080p and looks terrible on a next gen console. Second of all, the game may claim to be of the action/horror genre, but all I'm seeing is predictable jump-scares and a laughable atmosphere that couldn't frighten a 3 year old and that is pathetic. Lastly,I've only made it to the third chapter and I'm completely disgusted with the state of the game. First of all, the game isn't displayed in 1080p and looks terrible on a next gen console. Second of all, the game may claim to be of the action/horror genre, but all I'm seeing is predictable jump-scares and a laughable atmosphere that couldn't frighten a 3 year old and that is pathetic. Lastly, the gameplay isn't fun nor is it even the least bit engaging. This is, yet again, another "horror" game that knows little to nothing about how to truly frighten its audience even remotely.… Expand
  29. GordonG
    Oct 14, 2014
    1
    Wow, THE most disappointing game i ever played. It is just horrible unfinished.
    I can´t understand how this game could be ranked this high!?? Are you mad people!?
    -Graphics are 10 years old. I am serious, it is really really bad. -Constant frame drops make it unplayable -Controls are a mess -No ammo so all you do is run, really boring -Feels really unfinished -Glitches everywhere    Wow, THE most disappointing game i ever played. It is just horrible unfinished.
    I can´t understand how this game could be ranked this high!?? Are you mad people!?

    -Graphics are 10 years old. I am serious, it is really really bad.
    -Constant frame drops make it unplayable
    -Controls are a mess
    -No ammo so all you do is run, really boring
    -Feels really unfinished
    -Glitches everywhere

    +Good atmosphere    … Expand
  30. JPG127
    Oct 14, 2014
    8
    I really enjoyed this game. It has a decent weapon selection, sneak options, a great horror atmosphere and good controls and customization options. My only real issues are the story (or lack there of) and the frame rate drop. But nothing so horrible it makes the game unplayable. Shinji Mikami did it again. The game felt like the one the Silent Hill creators wanted to make. I know next genI really enjoyed this game. It has a decent weapon selection, sneak options, a great horror atmosphere and good controls and customization options. My only real issues are the story (or lack there of) and the frame rate drop. But nothing so horrible it makes the game unplayable. Shinji Mikami did it again. The game felt like the one the Silent Hill creators wanted to make. I know next gen has been somewhat disappointing. But this is very much a good first entry into a possible horror franchise.… Expand
  31. MortalWombat
    Oct 14, 2014
    9
    The Evil Within is Shinji Mikami's return to form that we have been waiting for. Tough-as-nails, unforgiving, and brutal to a fault, this game makes you scratch for every inch while screaming for more. Resources are scarce, and tension is ratcheted up to 11.Graphically, I was blown away by the depth of field effects, the lighting, the fog. It's a picturesque nightmare. the sound design andThe Evil Within is Shinji Mikami's return to form that we have been waiting for. Tough-as-nails, unforgiving, and brutal to a fault, this game makes you scratch for every inch while screaming for more. Resources are scarce, and tension is ratcheted up to 11.Graphically, I was blown away by the depth of field effects, the lighting, the fog. It's a picturesque nightmare. the sound design and the exceedingly creepy creature design add to the overwhelming sense of dread. The story is meant to be a backdrop for the events you survive through, and this is apparent. Those looking for a deep storyline with believable characters may be disappointed. Survival Horror fans who liked the first Dead Space, Resident Evil 4, and Silent Hill will enjoy this title.… Expand
  32. chevelle1989
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    A new unique experience from the master of survival of horror shinji mikami.the graphics and the atmosphere are dark and awesome but with some flaws sometimes,the gameplay is strong in the level of resident evil 4 and better,but the exploration part for keys,locked doors, and puzzles are in some level few,you have to move on and on every time in the way of resident evil 4.the story is notA new unique experience from the master of survival of horror shinji mikami.the graphics and the atmosphere are dark and awesome but with some flaws sometimes,the gameplay is strong in the level of resident evil 4 and better,but the exploration part for keys,locked doors, and puzzles are in some level few,you have to move on and on every time in the way of resident evil 4.the story is not so great cause the main thing in the game is to how you will survive in someway from this ordeal.the desigh on the monsters is unique and creepy,the upgrade system works great.overall is a excellent game a real survival horror and the gameplay one of the best gameplays ever with replay value .its a must dont lose this.… Expand
  33. 1234marcos
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Horror is finally back!Praise Shinji Mikami.If u like survival horror,this games is a must buy.My favorite ps4 game.It's super creepy and the A.I is well done.The game's challenging which is a plus
  34. mike1989
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    I am gamer for years,those last years i had gave up on this genre but this one had brought back everything.finally a real survival horror is here.we have here great graphics,awesome gameplay with replay value,great atmosphere,puzzles,exploration.its a unique PARANORMAL experience for all the gamers casuals and purists dont waste your time just play this masterpiece guys.
  35. Ellzyboy
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Finally, a decent survival horror!
    lots of throwbacks to the old style of genre which has long gone.
    a great game. VERY DIFFICULT, as games like this should be
  36. hamster98
    Oct 14, 2014
    8
    the game is a true survival horror game its better than re 5 and re 6 shinji has done it again the evil within has 15 chapters and that really good cause that spands 23 hr
  37. CR7onaldo
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    With its dirty and stressful universe, its wonderful artistic direction and the impressive bosses, Tango Gameworks' game teaches a lesson to Capcom's Resident Evil. A true sequel to Resident Evil 4, believe us.
  38. meowskies69
    Oct 14, 2014
    8
    i here a lot of reviews saying that its too much like resident evil 4, but that's not a bad thing.
    so into the game, its exactly what i wanted in a horror/action game its got its ups and downs
    but people are still willing to buy it , because SHINJI MIKAMI is great at what he does, and no matter how many horror action games he takes out like Re4, i'm still going to Buy it and Play it.    i here a lot of reviews saying that its too much like resident evil 4, but that's not a bad thing.
    so into the game, its exactly what i wanted in a horror/action game its got its ups and downs
    but people are still willing to buy it , because SHINJI MIKAMI is great at what he does, and no matter how many horror action games he takes out like Re4, i'm still going to Buy it and Play it.

    If you want a Game with a lot of story and its challenging i say 100% buy it. but if your not into long and difficult games and don't like puzzles then do not get at all. but so far im in love with the game!    … Expand
  39. whutisthematrix
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Welcome back, survival horror. Truly a good homage to older games of the like, a blast to play, and very scary. Highly recommend if you love old Silent Hill and RE games!
  40. Iberian_Buffalo
    Oct 14, 2014
    4
    When you create game that have graphic quality below the last of us remastered quality, you also add 2 bars on screen so amount of graphic that need to be generated is even less THEN game is not allowed to work 30 fps with a lot of drops to 15 fps... THIS IS NEXT GEN.. (should be). Not even stable 30 fps.
  41. AngryRoach
    Oct 14, 2014
    7
    I'm having a lot of fun playing this game. It feels like an old school survival horror for sure, Last of Us was more actionish, a great game yes but this is true "survival" horror! Liking it more than RE4 so far.
  42. don-G
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    The Evil Within is a varied, deep, challenging and long game. Shinji Mikami and Tango Gameworks scare us, they mix puzzles and third person shooting in a reborn survival horror that is visually poor. The Keeper, the Alpha mastodon and other ugly deformed will make you have nightmares.
  43. darksoul23
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Amazing game despite the decent graphics the gameplay is superb and challenging thank you mikami for this amazing game survivl/horror to it roots what else you want resident evil fans
  44. abelcorreia
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    terrifying that is the word that best defines The Evil Within, the graphics are good gameplay also can not help but give a lower rating than 10 glad you survive the horror genre is coming back with everything.
  45. SlasherX
    Oct 14, 2014
    8
    I went in with high expectations and to put it briefly...I overall enjoyed it, but was below my very high expected 9.5/10.

    The game tries to be a psychological mind bender, making you question the reality of the situation and makes you wonder what could come next. The Bad first (everything is subjective to taste): - You die...ALOT. Sometimes you just want to move forward. - I'm    I went in with high expectations and to put it briefly...I overall enjoyed it, but was below my very high expected 9.5/10.

    The game tries to be a psychological mind bender, making you question the reality of the situation and makes you wonder what could come next.

    The Bad first (everything is subjective to taste):
    - You die...ALOT. Sometimes you just want to move forward.
    - I'm absolutely not a fan of black bars
    - 30fps give it a slow paced feeling as it should be, but frame rates easily drop when this is done.
    - Confirm too frequent frame rate drops, but this can be easily fixed in future updates.
    - Graphics are no where as good as I hoped.
    - Story not well explained most of the time, or at least don't explain who is who and why.
    - movements feel sluggish at times where accurate stealth movements are necessary.

    The good:
    - You die...ALOT. This is a bad and a good thing. The replay ability of each level doesn't feel frustrating, but much more a challenge for you to go back and try again..in different ways all the time.
    - Great horror atmosphere and very nice first Chapter. I don't want to spoil more..
    - (SPOILER) Love the Silent Hill 2 reference with the look of the nurse when in the save game dreams.
    - Each level is unique in its own way with always something intriguing to look forward to. Most of the time.
    - This game is a survival horror. You will feel exactly that when playing it. You are surviving. THAT is something many games don't have anymore.

    You make one wrong move...BAM, you're dead. It isn't a perfectionists game, but it requires planning and thinking on how to proceed forward in each level. You will make full use of your environments and once you learn the tricks you will enjoy the game to the fullest.

    I expected a better told story, better graphics without those dreadful black bars that remove 2 thirds of my screen space (literally). Improve the controls, make the bars a choice and improve the frame rate.

    Overall you will enjoy the game. It isn't the best, but it is FAR from the worst.    … Expand
  46. motta88
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    my GOTY this game is awesome and scary and unlike other horror games its addicted and enjoyable shinji mikami did it again the real survival horror god
  47. TangoFan
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    it was everything the fans survival horror wanted I love this Game! Shinji Mikami Genius! Good Graphics Good Music Good Story Classic Survival Horror. Gamers nowadays it's sad...
  48. edgardot02
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    If you want a Survival Horror please get This game it's amazing, the mind of shnji mikami is in this game, is the really resident evil 4 or the sequel. With More Tension and Inovation
  49. Bbbrian2013
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    The Evil Within is easily the best Survival Horror game to be released in years, Shinji Mikami has once again worked his magic! Hopefully Bethesda and Tango will turn this into an amazing franchise and not just an amazing game!
  50. monks99
    Oct 14, 2014
    9
    Evil Within is very well paced. With a great level design and great atmosphere. Smart AI...sure the acting is mediocre..but what matters more is gameplay. One of the best horror games to be released in a while. Much much better than any of the later released Resident Evil games. Scarce save points is a plus in my book as well.
  51. freak_slayer
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    everything you'd expect from Mikami, not scary but heart pounding and an definitley survival horror. Blood, guts and lots of deranged creatures. Excellent game
  52. Lizarraga
    Oct 14, 2014
    6
    I didn't play many chapters but the first ones were enough for me to return this game. Many people are complaining about the black bars but I didn't mind. I'm not a graphic enthusiast but the graphics are just horrific in my opinion. It's actually the first time where I complain about graphics. The story is neither bad nor good. Its gloominess can be compared to games like "The Last OfI didn't play many chapters but the first ones were enough for me to return this game. Many people are complaining about the black bars but I didn't mind. I'm not a graphic enthusiast but the graphics are just horrific in my opinion. It's actually the first time where I complain about graphics. The story is neither bad nor good. Its gloominess can be compared to games like "The Last Of Us".

    What I really liked about this game was the enemy design.. but that's it. I have never played Resident Evil before and this is actually the first game by Shinji Mikami that I played.
    I really like this genre but it didn't shock me at all.

    I'd borrow this game from a friend or a rental shop before buying it, especially because it has no MP or Co op.    … Expand
  53. Whoami
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    I think the game is awesome, I'm not done the game yet, I'm on chapter 7, but so far I have been having a great time.. Sure, the graphics at times can be "bad" but the game-play kicks a**...It's not my favorite horror game, that goes to Silent Hill 2.. I hope we see mre survival horror this gen..
  54. EchoBlack
    Oct 14, 2014
    5
    Hardly a return to classic survival horror, this game feels more like a modern, action-focused TPS with some cliché "hollywood" scares railroaded as part of set pieces. The game utterly fails at generating horror or even tension from its (abundant) combat and exploration scenarios. The survival aspect is also highly ineffectual, as consumables such as ammunition and healing items are amplyHardly a return to classic survival horror, this game feels more like a modern, action-focused TPS with some cliché "hollywood" scares railroaded as part of set pieces. The game utterly fails at generating horror or even tension from its (abundant) combat and exploration scenarios. The survival aspect is also highly ineffectual, as consumables such as ammunition and healing items are amply replenished between major encounters. The only semblance of game-long resource management is in the form of ability upgrades.

    This game has more in common with the Tomb Raider reboot or The Last of Us than Silent Hill or Resident Evil. It could be an interesting gateway game for people new to horror games, but long time fans can easily skip The Evil Within. However, fans of TPS or just action games in general are likely to find things to enjoy.    … Expand
  55. Darkknight88
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Amazing game the graphics is not that bad i really liked the shadows and lightning details the horrific enemies the story is a bit cofusing but it needs more than one walkthrough to get along with it
  56. usa5432
    Oct 14, 2014
    0
    This game is a dissapointment, since the lack of emotional moments, to the uninspired characters ever, no scary at all, the team that made the first resident evil games is not working in this game, Mikami was not the only person who made the old resident evil games, there was a team of designers and creators that made the old resident evil games a masterpiece, i have several doubts aboutThis game is a dissapointment, since the lack of emotional moments, to the uninspired characters ever, no scary at all, the team that made the first resident evil games is not working in this game, Mikami was not the only person who made the old resident evil games, there was a team of designers and creators that made the old resident evil games a masterpiece, i have several doubts about this title, all that i see is very far to even look like an old survival horror game

    i agree    … Expand
  57. BAN_KAI
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    this game is not flawless and it is not shinji's best work but it is still amazing game i loved the environment design and difficulty of this game you realy should be smart enough and survivalist to survive this game great pick and worth my cash
  58. llNaughty_Dogll
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    Great Story..One of the best titles of the previous generation is now available in all the next-gen.If you have yet to play The Evil Within, and you own a PlayStation 4, I can fully whole heartily say go buy this game, because you’re in for a memorable time. For fans, this is one you might want to pick up if you want to play the game at its best
  59. slim1985
    Oct 14, 2014
    10
    it may not be the best game out their but it the survival/horror return in the hand of it father shinji mikami this game have a great atmosphere and require skills to survive bringing back the old school survival horror style "less resources, Puzzles, etc"this game is a must for survival/horror fans
  60. Makaveli
    Oct 14, 2014
    9
    ( Received my copy early on October 10th,friend hooked me up)
    Shinji Mikami ( father of survival horror) is the director of The Evil Within and it has been said that this title will be the last videogame he directs and what a way to go out.
    While playing The Evil Within, I felt like I returned to the good old days of survival horror. You could tell that Silent Hill was one of Shinjis    ( Received my copy early on October 10th,friend hooked me up)
    Shinji Mikami ( father of survival horror) is the director of The Evil Within and it has been said that this title will be the last videogame he directs and what a way to go out.

    While playing The Evil Within, I felt like I returned to the good old days of survival horror. You could tell that Silent Hill was one of Shinjis inspirations for this game. I also sensed some inspiration from horror movies from the 80s and of course Resident Evil 4.
    There were some frame rate drops and texture pop ins that occurred sometimes while playing the game, but it wasn't so bad, I've seen a lot worse in other games.

    The graphics themselves are nothing special, however the environments that you traverse are interesting and beautifully designed, you could defiantly tell you are playing a shinji mikami game.
    Enemy design is also very nice and you could tell that the designers took their time in creating each enemy..I did not like the black borders that were present on the screen at first, but after awhile I didn't mind it.

    Bosses seemed to be frustrating but I'm a type of gamer who enjoys learning by dying.. The game doesn't tell you how to kill a boss, so chances are you will die over and over again until you find out for yourself on how to defeat it... This game is challenging.. I played on normal and it was still pretty hard.
    The story is weird, it's confusing and it seems like it drags out a bit, but nonetheless it is very solid, I actually like the story better than Resident Evil 4. However I liked Leon a lot better than Sebastian, I thought Sebastian was a very dull protagonist, just a pretty boring guy..
    Puzzles were ok, nothing special, quiet easy actually, could be because I was only playing on normal, but they are pretty straight forward.
    I did not find the game scary but I did find it disturbing and I was tense through most of it, just like resident evil 4.
    Resident Evil 4 to me is slightly better than The Evil Within (at least to me) but it was a fun ride, I plan on playing it again... First play through took me approx 17 hours.

    I recommend this game to people who loved the classic Resident Evil games, newcomers may not like this game as it does indeed feel like an old school horror game. The game is also hard so you must have the patience and be able to learn by trial and error...
    Presentation: 9.5
    Gameplay: 9.5
    Sound :10
    Graphics: 7.0
    Story: 8.0
    Replayability: 9.0
    My Score : 88%    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

67
#67 Best PS4 Game of 2014
10
#10 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2014
7
#7 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2014

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 65 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 42 out of 65
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 65
  3. Negative: 1 out of 65
  1. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Dec 28, 2014
    80
    It's lean, with few repeated ideas, and boasts one of the best save rooms you'll ever experience. [Christmas 2014, p.88]
  2. Games Master UK
    Dec 21, 2014
    81
    Bold and brutal, it has the guts to stay true to its horror roots without feeling outdated. [Christmas 2014, p.58]
  3. Edge Magazine
    Dec 6, 2014
    70
    After a clumsy opening, The Evil Within hits its stride towards the end and the fist act and the tension rarely lets up. [Christmas 2014, p.114]
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