Game Review

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre

Back in 2016, the horror game *Dead by Daylight* introduced a new multiplayer experience inspired by iconic horror movies like *Friday the 13th*. Players could play as either a killer or one of four survivors trying to escape. In 2017, *Friday the 13th* brought a similar concept, allowing players to control Jason Voorhees. But after 6-7 years, the genre needed some innovation. Enter *Sumo Digital* and the publisher of *Friday the 13th* with a new title: *The Texas Chain Saw Massacre*. This time, instead of one killer, there are three. Let’s see if this game delivers.

What Does the Game Offer?

Like similar games, *The Texas Chain Saw Massacre* doesn’t focus on story but instead provides multiplayer modes where players level up characters and experience scenarios in different maps. The game takes inspiration from the 1974 movie *The Texas Chain Saw Massacre*, with three iconic maps: Slaughterhouse, Family House, and Gas Station, recreated to immerse players in the horror experience.

While the limited number of maps could seem like a drawback, each map is large and uniquely designed, offering significant variety. However, the objectives in all maps remain similar, which might feel repetitive over time.

Gameplay

The gameplay builds on the concept of *Dead by Daylight* but introduces three killers instead of one, making survival significantly more challenging. The goal for killers is simple: eliminate the survivors. Survivors must collaborate to complete tasks that unlock one of four exits on the map and escape.

Killers

Killers have five unique characters to choose from, each with distinct abilities. For instance, one can detect survivors through walls, another can set traps, and Leatherface wields his iconic chainsaw. The addition of Grandpa is an interesting twist—players must feed him blood to unlock his powerful abilities, which make escaping harder for survivors.

Survivors

Survivors face an uphill battle. They cannot kill the killers but can use their abilities to escape. For example, Leland can knock down killers with a shoulder charge, and Connie can quickly disarm traps. Survivors need to complete one of three map-specific objectives to unlock exits, which adds strategic complexity.

Graphics and Performance

The game’s visuals are stunning, featuring highly detailed environments and characters. The outdoor areas, interiors, and underground sections are visually distinct. However, technical performance is inconsistent, with sudden frame drops during intense moments, which can impact gameplay.

Final Verdict

*The Texas Chain Saw Massacre* brings fresh elements to the horror multiplayer genre with its unique killer abilities and challenging gameplay. However, it requires teamwork and coordination, which can be hard to find with random players. If you’re a fan of horror games and love Hollywood serial killer vibes, this game is worth a try, especially since it’s available on GamePass.

Rating: 7.5/10