Quantum Break

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.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player Play through the game's story or campaign solo

Reviews

79%

Audience ScoreBased on 12,592 reviews

story5,401 positive mentions

optimization310 negative mentions

story
11,551 mentions
47 % positive mentions
50 % neutral mentions
4 % negative mentions
The story of "Quantum Break" is widely praised for its engaging and intricate narrative, which revolves around time travel and its consequences. Players appreciate the unique blend of gameplay and live-action episodes that enhance the storytelling experience, although some find the pacing and reliance on collectibles for deeper lore to be cumbersome. While the plot is compelling and features well-developed characters, many reviewers note that the gameplay can feel secondary to the narrative, leading to mixed feelings about the overall experience.
- “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.”
- “You'll spend a ton of your playing time just reading through that crap since otherwise the story and character motivations and allegiances make even less sense.”
- “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.”
gameplay
5,360 mentions
38 % positive mentions
53 % neutral mentions
9 % negative 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 gameplay, clunky controls, and a reliance on cutscenes that disrupt the flow, making it feel more like an interactive movie than a traditional game. While the story and visuals are generally well-received, the gameplay is seen as a weaker aspect, with some players suggesting it lacks the polish and engagement found in Remedy's other titles like *Control* and *Max Payne*.
- “The mix between gameplay decisions and the live-action bits hooked me into the story, and I just wanted to keep playing more to find out what happens next.”
- “The time effects are particularly impressive, with shattered moments and rippling distortions that visually represent time breaking down, adding an artistic layer to the gameplay.”
- “The time-manipulation mechanics are not just a gimmick; they are integral to both the gameplay and the story.”
- “Unfortunately, gameplay suffers heavily.”
- “The glaring issue is with the jank ass gameplay.”
- “The gameplay is generic third person shooter with unique time abilities.”
graphics
2,863 mentions
59 % positive mentions
38 % neutral mentions
3 % negative mentions
The graphics of "Quantum Break" have received widespread acclaim for their stunning quality, with many reviewers noting that they still hold up impressively well even years after the game's 2016 release. The detailed character models, realistic environments, and innovative visual effects, particularly during time manipulation sequences, contribute to a cinematic experience that blends gameplay with live-action storytelling. However, some players have reported issues with performance optimization, including blurriness and frame rate drops, which can detract from the overall visual experience.
- “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.”
- “Quantum Break features impressive graphics, with detailed character models, realistic environments, and stunning visual effects that bring the game's world to life.”
- “The outdated graphics threw me off.”
- “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 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.”
optimization
1,097 mentions
25 % positive mentions
47 % neutral mentions
28 % negative mentions
The optimization of Quantum Break has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting significant performance issues, including stuttering, frame drops, and poor handling of cutscenes, particularly on PC. While some users experienced smooth gameplay on high-end systems, others struggled with low frame rates and had to adjust settings extensively to achieve playable performance. Overall, the game's optimization is considered subpar, especially for a title released in 2016, leading to frustration among players despite its engaging story and strong performances.
- “I experienced no performance issues, and it's clear that the game has been well-optimized over the years.”
- “Modern PCs run the game smoothly with no performance issues.”
- “The performance of the game is excellent.”
- “The game is poorly optimized, with frequent crashes, bugs, and performance issues on PC.”
- “The optimization is absolutely terrible.”
- “For starters, the optimization is terrible.”
music
391 mentions
50 % positive mentions
47 % neutral mentions
4 % negative 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 and gameplay experience. 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 attention to detail in Quantum Break is commendable, with meticulously crafted environments and a soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's atmosphere.”
- “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 droll and boring at the best of times, often over encumbered by the vast cacophony of random sounds of bullets flying past you.”
- “The music: I hated it, even if you love the songs, 90% of them don't belong there and break immersion as soon as they start playing.”
replayability
306 mentions
24 % positive mentions
66 % neutral mentions
10 % negative 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, leading to a consensus that while there is some replay value, it is not substantial. Overall, the game offers a decent experience for those interested in exploring different choices, but it may not satisfy players seeking extensive replayability.
- “Overall the game is fantastic and does offer some replay value if you were to make different choices at each junction which do have a significant impact on character relations and story direction, which does help keep it somewhat fresh when doing multiple playthroughs.”
- “You can use abilities in various ways, also there are various choices to be made, which adds replayability.”
- “The game is also quite replayable; I could go back and make different decisions, which would have wide-ranging effects on the characters and the world they're in.”
- “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.”
stability
258 mentions
6 % positive mentions
1 % neutral mentions
93 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting a range of bugs and glitches that can disrupt gameplay, including character freezes, visual artifacts, 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 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 a grenade is flying towards you. Another thing are 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 finale boss was where I just said 'I've had enough' and uninstalled the game.”
grinding
152 mentions
2 % positive mentions
14 % neutral mentions
84 % negative mentions
Overall, players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, particularly during combat and exploration, with many citing the final boss battle as especially uninspired and drawn-out. While some enjoy the story and unique powers, the repetitive nature of enemy encounters and the slow pace of certain mechanics detract from the overall experience, leading to a sense of frustration. Despite these issues, the game is relatively short, which helps mitigate the tedium to some extent.
- “Game play is undeniably appealing and achievements aren't too grindy.”
- “A bit grindy sometimes.”
- “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- “My only real complaint is that the final boss battle is downright tedious.”
- “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.”
atmosphere
130 mentions
62 % positive mentions
36 % neutral mentions
2 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its rich, immersive qualities, bolstered by an impressive soundtrack, detailed graphics, and top-notch audio design that enhance the sci-fi themes. While many reviewers appreciate the cinematic presentation and the emotional depth conveyed through the environments and character interactions, some express disappointment in the game's pacing and the impact of live-action segments on immersion. Overall, the game is recognized for its compelling atmosphere, though opinions vary on how well it captures the unique essence of previous Remedy titles like Alan Wake and Max Payne.
- “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.”
- “Alan Wake has a fantastic story and atmosphere, but is severely lacking in gameplay, with isolated battles and pointlessly large areas filled with missable items.”
- “Because the whole running around reading emails and collecting documents does not add well to the atmosphere of the game.”
emotional
120 mentions
88 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
12 % negative 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 experienced significant emotional engagement, especially during pivotal moments and character arcs, leading to intense emotional releases. Overall, the game successfully evokes feelings of attachment and impact through its narrative choices, despite criticisms of its pacing and storytelling.
- “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 development
90 mentions
44 % positive mentions
42 % neutral mentions
13 % negative mentions
Character development in the game receives mixed reviews, with some 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, overall character growth can feel inconsistent. The integration of cinematic elements and world-building is noted as a strength, but some players feel that more could have been done to enhance character development throughout the gameplay.
- “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.”
humor
84 mentions
95 % positive mentions
0 % neutral mentions
5 % negative 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 charm of previous titles. The live-action series and various in-game events provide moments of unintentional comedy, though the humor can be inconsistent, with some jokes landing well and others falling flat. Overall, while the game has its funny moments, it also suffers from a lack of cohesive comedic writing in its characters and story.
- “The one-liners and witty banter between characters had me laughing out loud more than once.”
- “I guess some people could find it annoying when the characters keep repeating what you need to do to progress if you're taking extra time to explore the environment or look for collectibles, but I just found it funny (especially when I was doing it while repeatedly being asked if I could untie them).”
- “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)”
- “Not funny”
monetization
30 mentions
3 % positive mentions
17 % neutral mentions
80 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the absence of microtransactions, DLCs, and season passes, while others criticize the overwhelming presence of advertisements from brands like Microsoft and Nissan, which detracts from the overall experience. Many feel that the game feels incomplete, as it seems to prioritize advertising over delivering a full story, leading to frustration with both gameplay mechanics and the intrusive ad placements. Overall, the monetization strategy appears to be a significant point of contention among 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.”
- “If you don't mind all the ridiculous Microsoft and Nissan ad placements, believe me when I say this, ads are everywhere.”
- “Oh, and the advertisements from Microsoft and Nissan were icing on the cake; just that I am a bit diabetic to this crap.”