The Walking Dead: Season 1
- February 23, 2017
- Telltale Games
"The Walking Dead: Season 1" is a single-player action game with a gripping, emotional story. As convicted criminal Lee Everett, players navigate a zombie-infested world, seeking redemption by protecting a young girl named Clementine. The game's narrative foreshadows the story of Rick Grimes, offering a haunting exploration of survival and morality in a post-apocalyptic setting.
Reviews
- The Walking Dead offers a unique blend of horror and human drama, focusing on character development and interpersonal relationships amidst a zombie apocalypse.
- The special effects and makeup for the zombies are top-notch, creating a realistic and terrifying portrayal of the undead.
- The series successfully keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with unexpected plot twists and emotional depth, making it more than just a typical zombie show.
- Some viewers find the pacing slow at times, with too much focus on character interactions rather than zombie action.
- There are inconsistencies in character behavior and motivations that can detract from the overall experience.
- The graphic violence and gore may be off-putting for some audiences, making it unsuitable for younger viewers.
- story70 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 74 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The story of "The Walking Dead" is a compelling exploration of human survival in a post-apocalyptic world, focusing on character development and emotional depth rather than just the horror of zombies. Viewers are drawn into the unpredictable journeys of relatable characters, particularly Rick Grimes, as they navigate the challenges of maintaining their humanity amidst chaos. While it diverges from the original graphic novels, the series successfully weaves intricate plotlines and backstories that keep audiences engaged and invested in the characters' fates.
“But this is not a story centered on the zombies; it is very much about the human characters and the price they must pay to survive: how they must try and hold onto their humanity when death is coming for them day and night.”
“The main story is about a zombie apocalypse, but that is where it starts; it goes way beyond that to a basic survival story.”
“This is a fresh adaptation of the zombie post-apocalyptic world that actually has a plot line and character development that leaves me hungry for more.”
“I came to the conclusion that zombie films require so much time and energy to set up the backstory and tone that they have little left for the characters, leaving them as unfortunately shallow shells you don't care much about.”
“Where this show slips up a bit is balancing the story and people with the action and zombies.”
“Amc productions are made to fit into a primetime slot that includes lots of time for commercials, and the story suffers.”
- character development15 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
Character development in this series is highly praised, with many reviewers noting its depth and complexity, particularly in the context of a zombie apocalypse. The characters evolve significantly throughout the story, enhancing the overall plot and keeping viewers engaged. While some critics argue that the episodic format may hinder development, the consensus is that the series offers a refreshing take on character arcs, making it stand out in the genre.
“It has romance, character development, hot steamy affairs, just the right amount of action and suspense mixed in with a little bit of blood and gore, but perfectly done, not exaggerated and not unbelievable.”
“If you enjoy a show with really exciting plots with twists and cliffhangers, as well as excellent character development, then I highly recommend this series.”
“What sets this series apart from the countless other zombie stories out there is the character development.”
“In my opinion, this single-episode mentality really wastes the episodic format and ruins my hopes for the character development in the show.”
“I was very surprised after reading many of the negative reviews; most of which were complaining about character development and predictability.”
“Would have been one star had there not been character development and interaction amongst survivors.”
- emotional10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the series is highlighted by its ability to evoke strong responses from viewers, particularly through character dynamics and poignant moments that challenge the characters' humanity amidst chaos. While some episodes may feel slow or feature unlikable characters, the emotional depth and unique twists elevate the narrative, making it a standout in the zombie genre. Overall, the show successfully balances intense emotional experiences with the struggles of survival, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.
“The doctor in this episode is convincing and yes, I did shed a tear or two.”
“Romero once said that the real bad guy of his films was not the zombies, but that they acted as a catalyst for humans to be their base selves as society depreciates, and that is at the cornerstone of what makes this series so great, but not from a cynical point of view, but from the heartfelt perspective of someone who believes they can change society for the better, and show that life is worth living to his son.”
“Some of the episodes are like emotional roller coaster rides, and the slower episodes serve as fantastic character/group dynamics development.”
- graphics7 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The graphics in the series are notably graphic and intense, particularly during violent scenes, which some viewers find reminiscent of video games like Resident Evil. However, the reliance on low-budget computer-generated graphics leads to moments that can appear cheesy, detracting from the overall impact. While the graphic violence is a key element, it is balanced with a focus on character development, preventing the series from becoming solely about gore.
“It's a strong and graphic show, but that's the whole idea.”
“Some of the computer graphics in season 1 are really cheesy, especially the episode where the Centers for Disease Control blows up.”
“A low budget also meant a reliance on computer-generated graphics, so that the zombie deaths usually resemble something you could catch in a Resident Evil video game.”
“That being said, some of the computer graphics in season #1 are really cheesy; especially the episode where the Centers for Disease Control blows up.”
“The gaming audience is hard to please, but the paucity of graphic violence adds to the shocking brutality of the action scenes when they do turn violent, and it would be a short-lived series if the focus was on mere gore instead of the interpersonal experiences of the survivors.”
- optimization5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of the series is highly praised, with reviewers noting its impressive performance across various elements such as writing, design, and direction, which collectively elevate it to a cinematic level. The gripping performances, particularly by minor characters, enhance the overall experience, making it engaging and captivating throughout.
“Very well done, a great performance based on the bedrock of a wonderful script.”
“From performances, design, special effects and makeup, writing, and direction, this series on the small screen rivals anything you'd see on the big screen.”
“Morgan's performance as Rick's rescuer, teacher, and friend is amazing; you can't take your eyes away from the story for a second, it is that interesting ... especially as we watch him going through his family photographs.”
- humor4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is often compared to that of cult classic films like "Zombieland" and "Shaun of the Dead," with users noting its ability to evoke laughter even in desperate situations. While some viewers maintain an open mind, they express mixed feelings about the effectiveness of the jokes, suggesting that the humor may not resonate with everyone. Overall, the game seems to draw on a blend of clever references and situational comedy.
“They have even starred in extremely hilarious cult movies such as Zombieland, Shaun of the Dead, and Fido.”
“While I missed the first 20 minutes of that episode, I found myself laughing at my desperation.”
“Shaun of the Dead, that hilarious loving tribute to zombie movies and George Romero, got me interested.”
“I keep an open mind when I watch each episode, but the acting and the jokes just aren't funny.”
“The humor feels forced and often falls flat, making it hard to enjoy the experience.”
“I expected more laughs, but the jokes are stale and lack creativity.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is effectively crafted, with a mix of impactful music and silent moments that enhance the sense of desolation and tension. Large-scale scenes of deserted streets contribute to a chilling ambiance, while the exploration of personal relationships adds depth to the overall experience. The pacing and charged atmosphere align well with the genre, creating an engaging environment for players.
“The music, when used, is good, but there are a lot of silent parts too in which you get a sense of what the atmosphere would really be like.”
“The weirdo bogus science aside, this series delivers with atmosphere -- the large-scale scenes of deserted streets are more chilling than the scenes of seemingly endless wrecked cars.”
“It has an appropriately charged atmosphere for the genre and the pacing is just right.”
- music2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game is well-received when present, enhancing the atmosphere, but there are notable silent moments that contribute to the overall experience. Many reviewers appreciate the minimal use of the musical score, allowing for a more immersive environment.
“The music, when used, is good, but there are a lot of silent parts too, which give you a sense of what the atmosphere would really be like.”
“Another great thing about this show is that there is very little musical score to it.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The reviews suggest that the monetization strategy may evoke a sense of unease, likening it to the aggressive tactics of 1960s advertising executives, while also hinting at a potential thematic connection to zombies, possibly indicating a blend of nostalgia and horror in the game's marketing approach.