The Operator

78%
Game Brain Score Based on 3,261 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • music
The Operator Game Cover
The Operator is a short but very well made mystery that leaves you craving more of its amazing puzzles and storytelling moments.
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"The Operator" is a detective simulation game where you solve criminal cases for the FDI. Utilize advanced software to analyze evidence, evaluate documents, and connect clues to bring criminals to justice. Each case is a complex, mind-bending story that requires you to dig deep and uncover the truth. Assist field agents by providing critical support and follow the evidence wherever it leads.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

78%
Audience ScoreBased on 3,261 reviews
story970 positive mentions
replayability34 negative mentions
  • Engaging and immersive story with unexpected plot twists.
  • Well-designed puzzles that are challenging yet satisfying to solve.
  • High-quality voice acting and sound design that enhance the overall experience.
  • Very short gameplay, typically around 3-4 hours, which may not justify the price for some players.
  • Linear narrative with little to no impact from player choices, leading to a lack of replayability.
  • Some puzzles and mechanics are only used once, missing opportunities for deeper gameplay.
  • story2,178 mentions

    The story of "The Operator" is widely praised for its engaging narrative and unexpected plot twists, though many players note its linearity and brevity, typically completing it in around 3-4 hours. While the storytelling is immersive and well-executed, some reviewers express a desire for more side cases or filler content to enhance character development and gameplay depth. Overall, the game is recommended for its compelling plot and atmosphere, despite some predictability and a lack of meaningful choices affecting the outcome.

    • “The plot was amazing and I honestly have zero bad things to say after playing this game.”
    • “The story is gripping (which is by the way fully voiced over!), the puzzles are well-designed, and the overall experience is thoroughly satisfying.”
    • “With an insanely well-written and gripping story that had my jaw on the floor nearly the entire game, fun and creative gameplay, amazing voice acting, and a killer soundtrack, the operator is nothing shy of a masterpiece.”
    • “The story in the game feels a bit rushed and even though the game makes you think there's multiple endings and that your choices matter - there is only one ending.”
    • “The story is extremely short, with a plot that becomes obvious within the first 40 minutes of gameplay.”
    • “The ending does not resolve any of the plot points in the slightest, it just reveals a twist I worked out halfway through the game and then finishes.”
  • gameplay569 mentions

    The gameplay of "The Operator" is characterized by engaging mechanics that effectively immerse players in a detective narrative, though many of these mechanics are underutilized, often appearing only once throughout the game. While the core gameplay loop is enjoyable and the puzzles are satisfying, the overall experience is relatively short, averaging around 3-4 hours, which has led to some criticism regarding its linearity and lack of replayability. Despite these shortcomings, players appreciate the unique blend of storytelling and gameplay, with many expressing a desire for a longer experience that fully explores the potential of its mechanics.

    • “Loved the story, and the gameplay definitely scratched that 'detective' itch that drew me towards it in the first place, even though it was a bit simplistic at times.”
    • “The blend of story and gameplay is seamless, making each task feel significant and tied to the larger narrative.”
    • “The gameplay is engaging, the story is enthralling, and the whole package is very polished from the voice acting to the sound design to the game's soundtrack.”
    • “Overall, I can safely say if you compare the price of entry to a movie, it is worth it for the story and gameplay alone, but I feel like it is too short and was on large parts of its runtime way too handholdy and easy.”
    • “Which to me was actually really sad because the gameplay mechanics were really well implemented and would have made for a super nice gameplay loop but instead got used once to advance the plot and then got discarded (e.g. the lab analysis or manually unlocking files).”
    • “The gameplay is extremely linear, which is a shame looking at the potential of the concept.”
  • music278 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread acclaim for its ability to enhance immersion and build tension, with many reviewers praising its dynamic and well-timed integration into gameplay. The soundtrack is described as phenomenal, featuring a mix of ambient and intense tracks that effectively complement the narrative and emotional beats of the story. Overall, the sound design, including voice acting and sound effects, is highlighted as a standout aspect that significantly elevates the gaming experience.

    • “The musical score masterfully maintained a tense atmosphere throughout the entire playthrough, creating a constant sense of threat.”
    • “The music is phenomenal, voice acting is great, and the story kept me totally engaged.”
    • “The soundtrack and story-telling is phenomenal.”
    • “The music, while inoffensive in quality, broke the sense of immersion for me.”
    • “Not to mention an 'original soundtrack' for another 10€.”
    • “Not really worth paying for the OST in my opinion, but who am I to decide.”
  • atmosphere106 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its immersive and tense qualities, enhanced by a compelling soundtrack and detailed sound design that create a constant sense of urgency and threat. Reviewers highlight the effective blend of visuals, voice acting, and narrative elements that draw players into a captivating detective experience reminiscent of the early 1990s. Overall, the atmosphere is described as a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's emotional impact and engagement.

    • “The musical score masterfully maintained a tense atmosphere throughout the entire playthrough, creating a constant sense of threat.”
    • “The entire atmosphere is really immersive due to the visuals and detailed soundscape.”
    • “The game has got an excellent blend of mixed media, cinematic and a truly atmospheric score that intertwines with the narrative in a beautiful way to create this experience.”
    • “There's unnecessary padding, in full blur cut scenes that take place between each 'day', and they seem to exist either for 'atmosphere' or more cynically, just to pad the game out so you go over the 2 hour refund mark.”
    • “The story moves at a good pace, the characters have personalities, and the general atmosphere of paranoia works well.”
    • “But the game nails the atmosphere, the heady mix of paranoia and dark secrets, and will capture the attention of players willing to suspend their disbelief at the start.”
  • replayability92 mentions

    The game has been widely criticized for its lack of replayability, with many reviewers noting its linear structure and absence of meaningful choices or multiple endings. While some players enjoyed the story and found it engaging, the consensus is that the game offers little incentive for replay, making it feel more like a short film than a game meant for repeated playthroughs. Overall, the limited replay value is a significant drawback, despite the enjoyable experience it provides during the initial play.

    • “I love the story (I was able to predict some of it but still blown away from some twists), the puzzles are easy to understand but still challenging to complete at times, and the best part is the replayability.”
    • “It seems like there are different endings, so some replayability.”
    • “One of the standout features is the replayability factor.”
    • “Very unsatisfying ending, no replay value, your choices don't change anything.”
    • “The ending is a bit disappointing because in a game with these many choices just a single ending no matter what you do really impedes replayability.”
    • “Unfortunately overpriced given its short duration (less than 4h) and its little to no replayability.”
  • graphics85 mentions

    The graphics of the game have received a mixed but generally positive reception, with many praising the retro aesthetic and immersive visuals that complement the storytelling. While some players noted that certain cutscenes felt lengthy or underwhelming, the overall art style and attention to detail were highlighted as significant strengths, enhancing the game's atmosphere and engagement. The combination of visuals and sound design effectively contributes to a captivating experience, particularly for fans of spy narratives and retro tech themes.

    • “The gameplay is engaging, the graphics are stunning, and the storyline kept me hooked from start to finish.”
    • “The visuals of the game are also quite nice and well done; they just fit the atmosphere, especially the sequences between scenes, which have a very special melancholic feeling.”
    • “The entire atmosphere is really immersive due to the visuals and detailed soundscape.”
    • “It relies heavily on style over substance, using eye-catching visuals to distract from its shallow gameplay.”
    • “Even though there are no real graphics here, it shows that the developers put in a lot of effort in making the game immersive.”
    • “The cutscenes were a bit meh, but the UI is nice.”
  • emotional32 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game has received mixed feedback, with many players praising its ability to evoke strong feelings and create a thrilling experience, likening it to a captivating mystery or spy narrative. However, some reviewers felt that emotional connections were undermined by a lack of character development, leading to moments that felt forced or unearned. Overall, the game successfully delivers impactful emotional moments, leaving players both invested and reflective.

    • “What a beautiful, thrilling and touching game!”
    • “This game was amazing, I am not understating when I say I cried at the twist with Evan. I am not joking when I say I felt guilty when Alexandra died because of me. This game made me question everything, and I love it for that. The dev team should be congratulated.”
    • “10/10 would cry again.”
  • grinding15 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game is often described as tedious, with players feeling that certain segments drag on without much engagement, particularly during non-interactive moments. However, the well-crafted story and puzzle elements help alleviate some of the monotony, creating a rhythm that can ramp up tension and keep the experience fresh. Overall, while some players find the grinding necessary, it can feel excessive at times, leading to a desire for more dynamic gameplay.

    • “A bit grindy sometimes.”
    • “Game play is slow and tedious, not being able to skip anything.”
    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “The parts in between gameplay where 'the operator' isn't behind his computer are tedious, and you really aren't looking at anything except for some blurry outlines of lighting... you're basically just staring at your screen for a few minutes with some background noise.”
  • optimization6 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is praised for being effective and enjoyable, contributing to a fun experience. However, some users note that while the game excels in storytelling and design, its performance could be improved, suggesting a mixed reception regarding optimization.

    • “1000/10 game, one of the best games I've played in a while. 100% worth the money; it's really optimized and just a fun game that makes you scratch your head a lot and will give you anxiety, especially with the bomb.”
    • “With fantastic writing and performances, great attention to detail, and suspenseful X-Files meets CSI vibes, the storytelling through cross-examinations on computer terminals, dreamy bokeh, and immaculate sound design is oh so effective.”
    • “1000/10 game, one of the best games I've played in a while. 100% worth the money; it's really optimized and just a fun game that makes you scratch your head a lot and will give you anxiety, especially with the bomb.”
    • “It hits all the right notes, but the performance isn't inspiring.”
  • character development6 mentions

    Character development in the game is generally well-received, with praise for the voice acting and character designs. However, reviewers express a desire for more depth, suggesting that additional short cases and branching storylines with varied dialogue choices could enhance the experience and prevent it from feeling stale.

    • “There was also good voice acting and character designs.”
    • “It didn't need too much more so that it runs the aforementioned risk of becoming stale, but a few more short cases for character development wouldn't have hurt.”
    • “Would it be cool if there were some branching storylines with different endings or character development as you choose different dialogue choices?”
    • “Would it be cool if there were some branching storylines with different endings or character development as you choose different dialogue choices?”
  • humor6 mentions

    The humor in "Home Safety Hotline" is described as surreal and fantastical, providing a light-hearted contrast to its suspenseful and high-stakes moments. However, some reviewers note that it lacks the comedic depth expected, particularly when compared to inspirations like "The X-Files." Overall, while there are humorous elements, they may not be as prominent as some players hope.

    • “While the operator builds on suspense, thrill, and high-stake moments, Home Safety Hotline is surreal, fantastical, and even a little humorous.”
  • monetization4 mentions

    The monetization of the game has been criticized for unclear advertising, leading players to expect a detective experience but instead receiving a story-driven visual novel. Many feel that the abrupt ending and setup for a sequel at a high price point suggest a cash grab.

    • “I honestly thought the game was just starting when it ended, but it was setting up for a sequel (cash grab at this price).”
    • “- unclear advertisement (detective game vs. very story-driven, more of a visual novel).”
  • stability4 mentions

    The game is reported to be quite buggy, with multiple instances of softlocking that can disrupt gameplay. Players are advised to adhere strictly to the game's intended sequence of actions, as deviating from this can lead to significant setbacks, including the need to restart their progress.

    • “Finally, the game is a bit buggy and softlocks in multiple places - I recommend you follow what the game expects you to do in the exact order it likes, as getting ahead of yourself, either through experimentation or actual foreknowledge, can potentially end your entire run and you'll have to start over.”
    • “Kind of buggy.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

78% average critic score

Buy The Operator

Play time

4hMedian play time
4hAverage play time
3-4hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 64 analyzed playthroughs

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