The Casting of Frank Stone is Definitively a Supermassive Game And That’s Just Fine

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As a seasoned gamer with decades of experiences under my belt, I must admit that The Casting of Frank Stone has managed to pique my interest in a way that not many games do these days. Having played my fair share of Supermassive Games titles, this latest offering from their stable feels like a comfortable old shoe, yet it still manages to offer something fresh and intriguing.

At times, a video game delivers exactly what it promises. With The Casting of Frank Stone, the latest production from Supermassive Games (known for Until Dawn, The Dark Pictures Anthology, and The Quarry), this rings true. Essentially, after trying the demo, I can’t offer much more than “Yes, that’s a game by Supermassive, and as someone who appreciates their work, that’s quite satisfying.”

In “The Casting of Frank Stone,” the narrative unfolds within the realm of Dead by Daylight, making it accessible to all viewers, though some subtle nods may be appreciated more by fans. The demo I experienced is set in 1963, where you assume the role of Sam, a black police officer on the hunt for a missing child at Cedar Hills Mill after dark. Upon encountering Tom Holt, the mill’s white security guard, tensions simmer beneath the surface due to their identities and the era, creating an intense atmosphere that underscores the uncertainty in Sam’s trust towards Tom. Just like other games from Supermassive Games, the way you interact with Tom significantly impacts not only your relationship but also shapes Sam’s character. You can opt to question him about the suspicious logs or chide him for his drinking habits, but be cautious as these actions might not necessarily encourage his cooperation.

As a seasoned gamer, diving into this mystery-filled mill feels like stepping back into the familiar world of Supermassive Games. You’ll find yourself wandering alone, unraveling the environment piece by piece, and gathering clues that help paint the picture of what’s brewing within these eerie walls. The game masterfully creates an atmosphere of dread, using elements like shadowy corners your flashlight barely reaches, recurring sounds that may seem ordinary yet send a chill down your spine, characters hinting at strange odors, and subtle musical cues to keep you on edge. The Casting of Frank Stone effectively weaves a chilling narrative that leaves you constantly questioning if you should even be here, with the unsettling sensation of “Oh, God, oh God, I really shouldn’t be here.”

1. The events leave you puzzled: Is Tom involved with the mill’s activities? There’s something strange about his dog, Merlin. Why is Sam so determined to locate a missing child that he’s here by himself, even at night? These questions make for gripping suspense – I find it intriguing how Tom addresses Sam as “mister” upon their encounter again while investigating the mill, and Sam quickly responds with “Officer.” It’s a small detail, but it suggests more than you might think – yet, in a horror story, characters often make poor choices. Frankly, if I were probing a mysterious mill with a man I wasn’t sure I could trust and found his dog eating a pile of bones and meat containing a human ear, I’d either leave immediately or summon reinforcements. However, Sam doesn’t appear to have the same concern for self-preservation as me.

In my rephrased version: I’ll avoid revealing the plot beyond that point as part of the enjoyment of a Supermassive game lies in uncovering what happens next. However, you’ll notice various elements such as dialogue options, quick-time events, multiple paths, and more. The demo was brief, so I couldn’t determine if my choices would significantly impact the story or not, but it certainly piqued my curiosity about the mystery at hand. Supermassive games are often visually stunning and well-performed cinematic experiences; The Casting of Frank Stone is no exception, with a balance between chilling suspense and light-hearted moments that include phrases like “Dangmannit!” and “Jesus married a milkmaid.” Horror can be frightening, but it also includes funny or mundane moments to provide relief, and The Casting of Frank Stone excels at this balance.

As a fan, if you’re not fond of them, “The Casting of Frank Stone” might not convert you. However, I found myself intrigued after trying the demo and eager to witness more from Supermassive Games. Sometimes, a game lives up to its expectations on the surface, but it’s the unfolding story that truly captivates. In this instance, I’m quite content with the mystery and can’t wait to see how it unravels further.

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2024-08-09 20:27