Quantum Break

83%
Game Brain Score Based on 6,277 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • graphics
Quantum Break Game Cover
Quantum Break is the new benchmark for transmedia video game/television show hybrids with a stellar script, satisfying time-mystery narrative and high-octane third-person action-gunplay.
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In Quantum Break, players control Jack Joyce, who gains time-manipulation abilities after a failed time-travel experiment. The game features third-person shooter gameplay and requires strategic use of Jack's powers to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. The story is interwoven with a live-action TV show, with the player's choices impacting the outcome of both the game and the show.

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Reviews

83%
Audience ScoreBased on 6,277 reviews
story2,696 positive mentions
optimization155 negative mentions
  • Engaging storyline with a unique blend of science fiction, mystery, and thriller elements.
  • Impressive graphics and cinematic presentation enhance the immersion and atmosphere of the game.
  • Innovative time manipulation mechanics add a new layer of depth to the gameplay.
  • Combat can feel repetitive and lacks variety in enemies and weapons.
  • The live-action episodes are streamed and can suffer from buffering issues, detracting from the overall experience.
  • The final boss fight is frustrating and poorly designed, leading to a disappointing conclusion.
  • story5,765 mentions

    The story of "Quantum Break" is widely praised for its ambitious narrative structure, blending traditional gameplay with live-action episodes that enhance the storytelling experience. Players appreciate the intricate time travel plot, well-developed characters, and the emotional depth of the narrative, although some find the pacing uneven and the gameplay repetitive. While the live-action segments are seen as a unique addition, they can disrupt the flow of the game, leading to mixed feelings about their necessity in understanding the overall story. Overall, the game is recommended for those who prioritize story-driven experiences, despite some criticisms regarding gameplay mechanics and execution.

    • “The story crafted for this game is really good.”
    • “The mix between gameplay decisions and the live-action bits hooked me to the story, and I just wanted to keep playing more to find out what happens next.”
    • “Quantum Break is a captivating fusion of different storytelling methods that keeps you engaged and interested throughout.”
    • “The immersion in its story is broken by this issue with the cutscenes, making the game not enjoyable.”
    • “The live-action episodes feel very B-grade, flat and toneless cinematography, some of the acting feels a little shoddy and the plot kind of feels disconnected between the live-action cutscenes and the in-game cutscenes because the live-action story arcs feel completely pointless to the main story.”
    • “The story is a mish-mash of sci-fi and industrial espionage that would have made a great show, but fails to fully bring the story together because of the horrible gameplay.”
  • gameplay2,675 mentions

    The gameplay in "Quantum Break" has received mixed reviews, with many players praising its innovative time-manipulation mechanics that add depth to combat and exploration. However, criticisms often highlight the repetitive nature of the gameplay, clunky controls, and a reliance on cinematic cutscenes that disrupt the flow of action. While the story and visuals are generally well-received, the gameplay is seen as a secondary focus, leading to a less engaging experience for those seeking a more action-oriented title.

    • “The mix between gameplay decisions and the live-action bits hooked me to the story, and I just wanted to keep playing more to find out what happens next.”
    • “The time-manipulation mechanics are not just a gimmick; they are integral to both the gameplay and the story.”
    • “The gameplay loop is satisfying, especially when you gain special powers.”
    • “In terms of gameplay, it is kind of janky and I'd also say it's repetitive, which might get you bored when trying to play a long session.”
    • “Unfortunately, underdeveloped gameplay mechanics make it a one-time playthrough.”
    • “The gameplay is repetitive, with mostly linear levels, generic enemies, and limited variety of weapons and powers.”
  • graphics1,427 mentions

    The graphics of "Quantum Break" have received widespread acclaim for their stunning quality, even years after its 2016 release. Players note the impressive detail in character models, environments, and special effects, particularly during time-manipulation sequences, which enhance the immersive experience. However, some users have reported performance issues, including frame rate drops and graphical glitches, suggesting that while the visuals are top-notch, they can be demanding on hardware and occasionally suffer from optimization problems.

    • “Graphically, this game still holds up for a 2016 release; environments and characters look great and powers look cool, too.”
    • “While the storyline may be somewhat standard, the stunning visuals and spectacular special effects truly shine.”
    • “The graphics are top-notch, with meticulously crafted environments and character models that are incredibly detailed.”
    • “The graphics are bad even at the time the game was released, the story is very normal and if it was a movie it would be better.”
    • “You cannot watch any of the episodes (which are not just 'extra', they are half the game, and actually have a tangible contribution to the overall story and lore), and due to a DirectX issue, graphics are frequently bugged and discolored, thoroughly ruining the experience.”
    • “The graphics leave a lot to be desired, grainy and lots of stutter when moving.”
  • optimization548 mentions

    The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting significant performance issues, including stuttering, frame drops, and inconsistent frame rates, particularly during cutscenes. While some users experienced smooth gameplay on high-end systems, others found the game poorly optimized for PC, often requiring adjustments to settings to achieve playable performance. Overall, the game's technical shortcomings detract from the otherwise engaging narrative and strong performances.

    • “I experienced no performance issues, and it's clear that the game has been well-optimized over the years.”
    • “The performance of the game is excellent.”
    • “The optimization is also pretty decent and the game is gorgeous.”
    • “Performance is still shit and I play with RTX 4080 and Ryzen 7800X3D.”
    • “The game isn't very optimized, so you might need to lock the frame rate.”
    • “The optimization is absolutely terrible.”
  • music195 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its atmospheric sound design and dynamic soundtrack that enhances the sci-fi themes. However, some players found the soundtrack to be forgettable or uninspired compared to previous titles from the same developers, noting a lack of memorable tracks and a disconnect between the music and the game's tone. Overall, while the sound effects and voice acting are generally well-received, the music's impact varies significantly among players.

    • “The game features a rich, atmospheric soundtrack that complements its sci-fi themes perfectly.”
    • “The audio design in Quantum Break is top-notch, with atmospheric sound effects and a dynamic soundtrack that heightens the tension and excitement of the gameplay.”
    • “The music in the game fits perfectly in each scenario and features great songs which made it more beautiful and enjoyable.”
    • “The rest of the songs didn’t hit with me like they did previously with Alan Wake and American Nightmare.”
    • “It’s like they ran out of time with the soundtrack’s planning and it feels somewhat uninspired.”
    • “The combat music, which should be uplifting and motivating, was dull and boring at the best of times, often overwhelmed by the cacophony of random sounds.”
  • replayability153 mentions

    The game's replayability is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating the impact of choices on character relationships and story direction, allowing for multiple playthroughs. However, many reviews highlight its linear design and limited differences in outcomes, resulting in a generally low replay value despite some engaging elements. Overall, while there are opportunities for varied experiences through decision-making, the game may not offer enough incentive for repeated play.

    • “Overall the game is fantastic and does offer some replay value if you make different choices at each junction, which have a significant impact on character relations and story direction, helping to keep it somewhat fresh during multiple playthroughs.”
    • “The game is also quite replayable, as I could go back and make different decisions, which would have wide-ranging effects on the characters and the world they're in.”
    • “Making different decisions allows for some replay value; after finishing the game with my original set of choices, I went back and made different ones to see how the live show played out. Some parts of each episode were the same, but there were also several things that changed, which in turn affected the following chapters slightly.”
    • “The game is linear, offering little replay value despite its branching storylines.”
    • “Limited replayability due to linear level design and predetermined story outcomes.”
    • “The bad: replayability is.... basically not there.”
  • stability129 mentions

    The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting a variety of bugs and glitches that can disrupt gameplay, including freezing characters, visual glitches, and crashes. While some users experienced smooth performance with minimal issues, others found the game to be a "buggy mess," particularly in the Game Pass version. Overall, despite its engaging story and visuals, the game's technical problems have left a significant number of players frustrated.

    • “I played on Steam Deck and for the most part it runs great.”
    • “Great game, cool story and the game runs great on my computer at 60fps with some hiccups here and there but nothing game-breaking and nothing annoying as some other games I've played.”
    • “Very good game and no glitches at all.”
    • “I heard this game has been out since 2016 and they still haven't solved the game-breaking bug that freezes your character after you pass the metal fence in Act 2 at Green Zone.”
    • “The glitches are insane; there is a 2/3 chance that your character won't move in situations where you need to, like when a grenade is flying towards you. Another issue is these constant crashes, in the middle of a cutscene for example.”
    • “Massive disappointment to be quite honest; poorly set out checkpoints, random freezes and glitches. The final boss was where I just said, 'I've had enough' and uninstalled the game.”
  • grinding76 mentions

    Overall, players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and repetitive, particularly during combat and exploration. Many reviews highlight the final boss battle and certain gameplay mechanics as particularly frustrating, leading to a sense of boredom despite the game's engaging story and unique powers. While some players appreciate the narrative elements, they often feel that the gameplay lacks variety and can become a chore, especially when it comes to collecting items and facing similar enemy encounters.

    • “Gameplay is undeniably appealing and achievements aren't too grindy.”
    • “It can be a bit grindy sometimes.”
    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “Every time, when they get combat to run with optimal difficulty, speed, and fluidity, they manage to kill the mood by throwing in an unexpected tedious encounter.”
    • “You will unnecessarily spend 20 minutes 'playing' with tedious enemies just because they felt it would be exciting.”
    • “The combat system is very tedious and is put there, in the middle of a visual novel, just to fill up the game.”
  • atmosphere65 mentions

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its rich, immersive qualities, enhanced by a compelling soundtrack, impressive graphics, and detailed environments. Many reviewers noted the effective audio design and cinematic presentation that contribute to a captivating experience, although some felt that certain gameplay elements and the integration of live-action segments detracted from the overall atmosphere. Overall, the game successfully creates a unique vibe that resonates with fans of the genre, despite some criticisms regarding its departure from the signature style of previous titles by the developer.

    • “The game features a rich, atmospheric soundtrack that complements its sci-fi themes perfectly.”
    • “Impressive graphics and cinematic presentation enhance the immersion and atmosphere of the game.”
    • “The attention to detail in Quantum Break is commendable, with meticulously crafted environments and a soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's atmosphere.”
    • “Zero atmosphere, only fast-paced mindless action sequences, unlike Max Payne and Alan Wake.”
    • “Because the whole running around reading emails and collecting documents does not add well to the atmosphere of the game.”
    • “It lacks the special Remedy atmosphere; it feels more like something you would expect to get for your Xbox One.”
  • emotional60 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by exceptional voice acting, particularly from Shawn Ashmore and Aidan Gillen, which adds depth to the characters and their journeys. While some players found the story to be clichéd and lacking coherence, others appreciated its emotional weight and the impactful choices that resonate throughout the gameplay. Overall, the combination of strong performances and a heartfelt narrative creates moments of genuine emotional connection, despite criticisms of the story's execution.

    • “The voice acting, particularly from Shawn Ashmore and Aidan Gillen, is exceptional and adds emotional depth to the characters.”
    • “A late-game choice can set up one of the most heart-wrenching boss fights I've seen in years, and the emotional impact all comes from the actors putting weight into their performances.”
    • “The choices they give you really have an impact on your gameplay; I cried for the choices I made and the heartfelt consequences I had put these characters through.”
    • “They deliver the expected narrative-driven action game, but give up the charm and iconic characters like those of previous games in favor of a clinical, sterile, and monumentally boring story about time travel.”
    • “Bland, boring story with so many clichés in the beginning; obviously I can't speak for later, but it was so uninteresting and laughable I couldn't keep going.”
    • “Cons: boring story, boring unnecessary live action episodes, boring gameplay.”
  • character development45 mentions

    Character development in the game is a mixed bag, with some players praising its depth and emotional connections, particularly through unique storytelling and choices that impact character arcs. However, others criticize the lack of development for certain characters and the rushed nature of some narrative elements, suggesting that while there are standout moments, the overall execution could be improved. Despite these inconsistencies, many agree that the character design and integration of gameplay with cinematic storytelling enhance the experience.

    • “The amount of world-building, character development, and overarching themes with their other games (namely Alan Wake and Control) is incredibly in-depth, and the range of sources of information you will find throughout your journey will be highly rewarded the more 'in-the-know' you are about their universe.”
    • “Quantum Break opts into telling its converging character development stories through multiple mediums and quick, bite-sized gameplay loops.”
    • “Combined with a unique storytelling, choices that affect the plot line, tiny details that influence the future, and a shooting and time power-based gameplay, Quantum Break offers a coherent storyline with in-depth character development and a thrilling third-person shooting experience.”
    • “Character development is almost non-existent.”
    • “It's so focused on being flashy, loud, and weird that there's almost no time for more character development and resolutions.”
    • “Those episodes have some nice action sequences, good tone and decent production value, but seem very rushed in terms of character development which made a few scenes seem very low budget.”
  • humor42 mentions

    The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with some players finding it genuinely hilarious due to witty banter, funny character interactions, and absurd situations, while others feel it lacks the consistent charm of previous titles. The live-action series and various in-game moments provide comedic relief, though the humor can be hit or miss, with some jokes landing well and others falling flat. Overall, while the game has its funny moments, it also suffers from inconsistencies that may detract from the overall comedic experience.

    • “The one-liners and witty banter between characters had me laughing out loud more than once.”
    • “You will encounter many weird and funny events as well.”
    • “Hilariously enough, the major choices you make in the game are from the point of view of the antagonist, with short previews of what will happen for each option.”
    • “Not funny.”
    • “Better than Flight Simulator X (not a funny joke).”
  • monetization15 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players frustrated by the prevalence of advertisements from companies like Microsoft and Nissan, which detract from the overall experience. While there are no microtransactions or additional paid content, the forced integration of ads and the feeling of playing a half-finished product at full price have left many feeling disappointed. Overall, the game is criticized for prioritizing advertising over gameplay quality, leading to a frustrating experience for players.

    • “There are no DLCs, no microtransactions, no season passes, no deluxe editions or gold editions, no artificial restrictions, no stupid boosts.”
    • “This is when games were trying to push and do different things; today it's just mostly half-finished games you are paying full price for, with a bunch of microtransactions sprinkled in.”
    • “Oh, and the advertisements from Microsoft and Nissan were icing on the cake; just that I am a bit diabetic to this crap.”
    • “If you don't mind all the ridiculous Microsoft and Nissan ad placements, believe me when I say this, ads are everywhere.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

75% average critic score

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Play time

10hMedian play time
9hAverage play time
10hMain story
19hCompletionist
5-15hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 59 analyzed playthroughs

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