Hidden Agenda
- October 23, 2017
- Supermassive Games
It's doing something different as part of Play Link, and there is no better studio to do a crime story using this service, even though some of the gameplay elements are a bit dull.
"Hidden Agenda" is an action-adventure game with mystery elements, playable in single-player or multi-player mode. As detective Becky Marnie or district attorney Felicity Graves, you'll investigate a serial killer case, with quick time events influencing the story's outcome. With the PlayLink feature, other players can vote on decisions via smartphones, and one may receive a secret objective, creating conflict and additional intrigue.
Reviews
- The film offers a gripping and thought-provoking portrayal of the political complexities and human struggles during the Northern Ireland conflict.
- Outstanding performances from the cast, particularly Frances McDormand and Brian Cox, enhance the film's emotional depth and tension.
- The direction and writing are top-notch, creating a realistic and engaging narrative that resonates with viewers interested in political thrillers.
- The plot can be predictable and at times feels unearned, with characters' motivations lacking depth and insight.
- Some viewers found the film's pacing slow and the narrative convoluted, making it difficult to maintain engagement throughout.
- Critics argue that the film leans towards propaganda, presenting a biased view of the events and characters involved in the conflict.
- story30 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The story is a complex and gripping narrative that intertwines historical events in Northern Ireland with themes of corruption and political intrigue, though some find it predictable or incoherent at times. While the performances, particularly by Frances McDormand and Brian Cox, are praised, opinions vary on the plot's execution, with some describing it as excellent and others as lacking inspiration. Overall, the film effectively portrays the struggles of the Irish people during the "troubles," making it a compelling watch despite its flaws.
“An interesting story and good acting.”
“Cox's character, Peter Kerrigan, relentlessly pursues the truth of the backstory behind the murder of the American lawyer, and it's really gripping to watch how things unfold.”
“It is a very human story that is well told and acted.”
“The plot is pretty predictable, but you know that from reading the review of the movie.”
“Although Frances McDormand's performance is outstanding, the plot is poor and uninspiring.”
“Some difficulty following the storyline.”
- optimization9 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight strong performances, particularly from Frances McDormand and Brian Cox, but criticize the plot and narrative as lacking depth and impact. While the film is praised for its engaging script and intense acting, the overall optimization of the story is seen as a weakness, detracting from the potential of the performances.
“A taut, intelligent nail-biter that pulls in the audience fast and never lets go, thanks to a lean, plausible script and intense performances from McDormand, Cox, and Dourif, all brilliant players when armed with solid material like this.”
“Brilliant performances of Frances McDormand and Brian Cox.”
“Good film with good performances.”
- music2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the film plays a significant role in demonizing the security forces, with ominous and scary compositions accompanying their portrayal, enhancing the negative perception of the British forces.
- replayability2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is highly regarded for its replayability, particularly in multiplayer settings, thanks to its engaging story, well-acted characters, and effective agenda system. However, some users noted issues with the playlink system and an unforgiving save mechanism that could necessitate starting over. Despite these drawbacks, the game's design encourages multiple playthroughs, especially with friends.
“The playlink system can cause issues and an unforgiving save system means that you may have to start over, but this is a well-made game that's extensively replayable and a killer with friends.”
“Engaging story and well-acted characters. The game looks gorgeous. The agenda system makes for a fun multiplayer experience. Extremely replayable. Playlink system works well.”
“The playlink system can cause issues, and the unforgiving save system means that you may have to start over, which significantly impacts replayability.”
“Once you've completed the game, there's little incentive to go back and play it again, as the story doesn't change much on subsequent playthroughs.”
“The lack of meaningful choices and consequences makes replaying the game feel tedious and uninteresting.”
- gameplay1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -300 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The gameplay offers a unique experience through the play link feature, effectively utilizing the studio's strengths in storytelling, particularly in crime narratives. However, some elements of the gameplay are considered somewhat lackluster.
“The gameplay is innovative and offers a fresh take on the genre, making it a standout experience.”
“The mechanics are smooth and intuitive, allowing for seamless interaction and immersion in the game world.”
“The variety of gameplay elements keeps each session engaging and encourages players to explore different strategies.”
“It's doing something different as part of PlayLink, and there is no better studio to do a crime story using this service, even though some of the gameplay elements are a bit dull.”
Critic Reviews
Hidden Agenda Review
It's doing something different as part of Play Link, and there is no better studio to do a crime story using this service, even though some of the gameplay elements are a bit dull.
70%Hidden Agenda Review – This Party’s A Killer
Hidden Agenda is a fun co-op or competitive title with a good production values and a gripping story. The PlayLink system can cause issues and an unforgiving save system means that you may have to start over, but this is a well-made game that's extensively replayable and a killer with friends.
70%Hidden Agenda Review
Hidden Agenda is a great concept with some impressive set pieces and performances, but its narrative lets it down and it lacks any major impact.
65%