Supermassive Games and Behaviour Interactive are once again pushing the boundaries of the horror genre with their latest collaboration, “The Casting of Frank Stone.” Known for redefining interactive horror experiences, Supermassive has long captivated players with their cinematic, choose-your-own-adventure style gameplay, while Behaviour has pioneered asymmetric multiplayer horror through the iconic “Dead By Daylight.” Now, they unite to explore the origins of the infamous killer Frank Stone, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with fans of both offerings.
In “Frank Stone,” players navigate a gameplay-light, movie-like experience reminiscent of Supermassive’s acclaimed title, “Until Dawn.” The game allows players to control multiple characters, forge relationships, and make critical decisions that can lead to dramatic consequences, including character deaths. The interactive storytelling aspect keeps players engaged as they face high-stakes scenarios filled with quick-time events (QTEs) and life-or-death choices.
Despite some narrative inconsistencies typical of Supermassive’s titles, the fun and immersive elements of the game overshadow such flaws. Players can manipulate outcomes, witnessing the impact of their decisions on character dynamics, which heightens the suspense and enjoyment. The thrill of guiding characters through terrifying situations adds to the replay value, making “Frank Stone” an enticing option for horror enthusiasts every autumn.
One standout feature is the game’s approach to exploration and dialogue. Players have numerous opportunities to uncover hidden collectibles that enrich the narrative, although these elements sometimes break from the pacing expected of a traditional horror film. Yet, the overall experience makes these minor setbacks feel acceptable as players engage with the horror story.
Additionally, “Frank Stone” introduces a simplified combat mechanic, requiring players to fend off the titular monster. While the mechanic offers a novel aspect to the gameplay, its lack of depth may leave some players desiring more engaging combat scenarios.
Technical performance, however, presents a challenge. Despite attractive visuals, frequent stuttering during scene transitions detracts from the overall experience. This persistent issue raises concerns about the extent of quality check on the game before its release.
The story itself is a genre-blending tale that begins as a slasher before diving into the realms of the supernatural and body horror. Frank Stone’s character design is intriguing, and players familiar with the “Dead By Daylight” lore will appreciate the intricate relationships and backstories presented throughout the game.
For those who enjoy delving into the history of horror games, the narrative secrets and connections to the “DBD” universe are particularly rewarding. “Frank Stone” serves as an engaging entry point for newcomers, while providing long-time fans with deeper lore insights. Clever nods to the multiplayer game add another layer of enjoyment, creating a rich tapestry for players to explore.
Upon completion, players unlock additional features like a collectible-finding mode and alternate narrative paths, enhancing the long-term playability of “Frank Stone.” The game also introduces helpful prompts to streamline navigation and exploration, improving the user experience.
Fans of Supermassive’s interactive horror titles will find familiarity in “The Casting of Frank Stone.” While it may not redefine the genre, it offers an entertaining journey that combines lore exploration with thrilling choices, making it a timely addition to the spooky season’s lineup.
