The Casting of Frank Stone

The Casting of Frank Stone

A narrative-driven horror game by Supermassive Games, combining psychological tension and immersive storytelling in a gripping and eerie atmosphere.

The Casting of Frank Stone is another masterful entry in the narrative-driven horror genre from Supermassive Games, the creators of Until Dawn and The Dark Pictures Anthology. This time, the studio explores the world of psychological horror with a deeply unsettling story about identity, ambition, and the price of fame.

The story follows Frank Stone, a struggling actor who receives an unexpected opportunity to star in a high-profile film. As Frank dives deeper into his role, reality and fiction blur, plunging him into a surreal and horrifying journey that forces him to confront his past, his psyche, and the dark forces that seem to be pulling the strings. The narrative is expertly crafted, filled with twists and turns that keep players on edge, with a conclusion that will leave audiences questioning everything they’ve experienced.

Gameplay focuses on exploration, decision-making, and quick-time events, hallmarks of Supermassive’s work. The player’s choices have a significant impact on the story, determining Frank’s fate and how the mystery unfolds. The game also introduces a new mechanic: “The Casting,” which lets players choose how Frank approaches key moments, shaping not only his character but the tone of the story. These choices add replayability, as different decisions lead to unique outcomes and branching paths.

Visually, the game is stunning. The environments are richly detailed and atmospheric, shifting between the glitzy veneer of Hollywood and nightmarish dreamscapes that reflect Frank’s fractured mind. The use of lighting and shadows is particularly effective, creating a sense of unease and foreboding in every scene. Character models are lifelike, and the motion capture performances bring an added layer of authenticity to the story.

The audio design is exceptional, with a haunting score that heightens the tension and subtle sound effects that keep players on edge. The voice acting is a standout feature, with a talented cast delivering powerful performances, particularly the actor portraying Frank Stone, whose descent into madness is both captivating and chilling.

In conclusion, The Casting of Frank Stone is a haunting and unforgettable experience that pushes the boundaries of narrative-driven horror. Its blend of psychological tension, meaningful choices, and stunning presentation make it a must-play for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a deeply engaging and unsettling story.

Release Date: December 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC
Developer: Supermassive Games
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment

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7 comments

comments user
GamerDude69

Another home run from Supermassive! The story kept me guessing until the very end, and the voice acting was phenomenal. A few jump scares, but it’s the creeping dread that really gets under your skin. Can’t wait for more!

comments user
MidnightReader

While the graphics and sound design were top-notch, I found the pacing a bit slow at times. The story was interesting, but I felt some parts dragged on, losing some of the tension built up earlier. Still a good game, though.

comments user
MovieBuff2023

The sheer cinematic quality of this game blew me away. The acting, the visuals, the score… it felt like watching a high-budget horror film. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative and an immersive experience.

comments user
AlexTheGreat1

I’m a huge fan of Supermassive’s games, and this one didn’t disappoint. The branching narrative is addictive, and I’ve already played through it three times with wildly different outcomes. A must-buy for anyone who enjoys making choices that impact the story.

comments user
CriticalGamer92

While technically impressive, I found the story to be somewhat predictable and lacking in originality. The ‘Casting’ mechanic was innovative, but it couldn’t save a rather underwhelming plot. Disappointing after the high standards set by previous Supermassive titles.

comments user
HorrorFanatic13

This game messed me up. In the best way possible! The psychological horror elements were incredibly well done, and the ending… wow. I’m still thinking about it days later. A masterpiece of the genre!

comments user
SarahConner87

Absolutely terrifying! The atmosphere was so thick you could cut it with a knife. The ‘Casting’ mechanic was a brilliant addition, making every playthrough feel unique. Highly recommend for horror fans!

Five stars!