As Dusk Falls, developed by INTERIOR/NIGHT and published by Xbox Game Studios, is part of the recent wave of former Xbox console exclusives to make it to the PS5. It invites players into a compelling and emotionally charged narrative experience that unfolds across two families’ intertwined lives over the course of three decades. Set against the backdrop of a small town in Arizona in 1998, the story kicks off with a botched robbery that sets in motion a series of events exploring themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and resilience. It was extremely well received on Xbox, so we couldn’t wait to try it out.
What you’ll immediately notice is that the game adopts a distinctive visual style, blending handcrafted character cutouts into three-dimensional environments, creating a motion graphic novel aesthetic. While this artistic approach may take some time to acclimatize to as it’s unlike anything we’ve seen in gaming before, it ultimately contributes to a unique tone and perspective within the narrative landscape. However, occasional moments of awkwardness in character expressions and interactions may disrupt the immersion for a second – but the striking visuals more than make up for that.
As Dusk Falls employs a non-linear storytelling structure, weaving together the lives of its characters through frequent flashbacks across multiple chapters. While the pacing may feel deliberate, the payoff lies in the depth of character development and the nuanced exploration of complex familial relationships. The story unfolds methodically, encouraging players to invest in the struggles and triumphs of its core characters. And while all that may sound potentially overwhelming and confusing, the developers have done a fantastic job in making sure the narrative remains easy to follow.
One of the game’s standout features is its emphasis on player choice, with decisions made throughout the narrative significantly impacting the direction of the story and the development of characters – a bit reminiscent of games like Life Is Strange in that sense. The chapter select system facilitates replayability, allowing players to explore alternate outcomes and dive into the hidden nuances behind every decision. However, the game’s self-serious tone and slower pace may limit its appeal in group settings, despite surprisingly offering multiplayer options for up to eight players.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, As Dusk Falls leans heavily into its narrative focus, with gameplay largely consisting of dialogue choices and quick-time events. While this may limit traditional gameplay elements, such as exploration and puzzle-solving, it serves to immerse players deeper into the emotional core of the story – though we realize that also means this isn’t a game for everyone.
The voice acting performances are a highlight, with actors delivering convincing portrayals that breathe life into the characters. Choices feel integrated seamlessly into the dialogue, offering players meaningful agency in shaping the narrative direction. The soundtrack complements the atmosphere effectively, with standout musical selections that enhance the emotional resonance of key moments.
Overall, As Dusk Falls presents a compelling and engaging narrative experience that rewards multiple playthroughs with insight into its characters’ backstories and motivations. While its distinctive visual style and emphasis on narrative over gameplay may not appeal to all players, those drawn to immersive storytelling and character-driven dramas will find much to appreciate in this ambitious title.
Score: 8.0/10
Press Play Media 