Zero Time Dilemma

85%
Game Brain Score Based on 86 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • atmosphere
Zero Time Dilemma Game Cover
Despite minor technical issues, Zero Time Dilemma is the dark, enthralling conclusion the Zero Escape trilogy deserves.

"Zero Time Dilemma" is a single-player Horror Role Playing game with an intriguing story, promised to deliver 9 hours of playtime. The game is the latest installment in the Zero Escape series, with series mastermind Kotaro Uchikoshi offering a pulse-pounding experience not to be missed. Immerse yourself in a thrilling journey of survival and secrets, as you uncover the mysteries of the game's intense and suspenseful narrative.

  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Nintendo 3ds
  • Play​Station
  • Play​station Vita
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

85%
Audience ScoreBased on 86 reviews
story22 positive mentions
graphics3 negative mentions
  • Engaging and complex story with well-developed characters and emotional depth.
  • Challenging and fun puzzles that provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
  • Unique narrative structure using fragmented memories that enhances replay value and immersion.
  • Disappointing conclusion that leaves many plot threads unresolved and may not satisfy long-time fans.
  • Technical issues with animations and presentation, including awkward character movements and choppy cutscenes.
  • Some puzzles feel reused or less innovative compared to previous entries in the series.
  • story65 mentions

    The story of "Zero Time Dilemma" is praised for its complexity and depth, continuing the high standards set by the Zero Escape series, though it may be challenging for newcomers without prior knowledge of the earlier games. While the narrative features unexpected twists and a unique fragmented storytelling mechanic, some players noted issues such as plot holes, underdeveloped characters, and a lack of resolution, particularly with the ending. Overall, it is regarded as a compelling and ambitious conclusion to the trilogy, despite some technical and presentation flaws.

    • “The storytelling in the entire Zero Escape franchise is a masterclass, and this latest installment is the best yet.”
    • “A brilliant, dark, twisted tale reminiscent of the phenomenal Steins;Gate, and one that will get players digging into every possible branching pathway to experience every facet of the story and finally understand the truth beneath this marvelous tale.”
    • “The ending was good, great and meta even, but there was a glaring plot hole that I could not get past; one of Zero's motivations did not convince me completely, and the inclusion of a certain very used item in the game came off as cheap since, unlike the morphogenetic field and shifting, it had no full explanation and was just there out of convenience.”
    • “The only major problem with the game is that it lacked a direct ending; while the game itself ended, the story did not, ending on one of the worst cliffhangers I've had the pleasure of experiencing.”
    • “Zero Time Dilemma is in a strange position, where newcomers will not likely be bothered by the things that irk long-time fans, but neophytes will also not be able to grasp the full story and its intricacies without going back and playing the preceding games, which were masterpieces.”
  • gameplay4 mentions

    The gameplay in the Zero Escape series is praised for its engaging storytelling and challenging puzzles, with players navigating a non-linear timeline that enhances the experience. While "Vlr" is noted as a strong addition, "Zero Time Dilemma" is seen as a fitting conclusion, albeit with gameplay that feels secondary to the narrative.

    • “VLR continued that expectation by being a very solid addition to the series, further cementing the fact that Zero Escape is a gem of story-making and puzzle gameplay.”
    • “[Great story, fun and challenging puzzles, great storyboard mechanics].”
    • “Zero Time Dilemma is a fitting finale, even if the gameplay gets lost in the background.”
    • “The game employs a storytelling mechanic where you play the entire timeline of the game in out of order, random order (picked by you), fragments of the timeline.”
  • atmosphere3 mentions

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its creepiness and tension, drawing comparisons to iconic horror titles like "Saw" and "Silent Hill." Reviewers highlight a masterful blend of unsettling soundtracks, intricate puzzles, and a compelling narrative that enhances the overall experience. The combination of philosophical themes and unique fiction adds depth, making it a standout in the series.

    • “I loved the twists; the atmosphere was absolutely creepy, and I believe the pros absolutely outnumber the cons.”
    • “Essentially, it is a mixture which consists of the atmosphere of Saw, the soundtrack of Silent Hill, the amount of blood of Resident Evil, the logic of philosophy, the fiction of physics, and all of this garnished with fiction I cannot explain without spoiling the game.”
    • “Some of the best puzzles in the series, the return of the tense atmosphere from 999, a great story with some sharp writing, and a genius use of literary ergodism.”
    • “The atmosphere feels like a confusing blend of different horror elements, combining the ambiance of 'Saw', the soundtrack of 'Silent Hill', the gore of 'Resident Evil', and a mishmash of philosophical logic and fictional physics, all wrapped in a narrative I can't discuss without spoiling the game.”
    • “The game tries to create a haunting atmosphere but ends up feeling disjointed and lacks a cohesive identity.”
    • “While the game aims for a dark and immersive atmosphere, it often falls flat, leaving players feeling more bewildered than scared.”
  • humor3 mentions

    The game's humor is effectively balanced with darker themes, creating moments that are both entertaining and engaging. Players appreciate the comedic elements, particularly those involving the character Carlos, which add a layer of enjoyment to the overall experience. The writing skillfully navigates between lightheartedness and seriousness, enhancing the narrative's depth.

    • “The game was fun and somewhat satisfying to the story; however, the technical issues with animations and the new camera angles made for some exceptionally hilarious moments, all dealing with Carlos.”
    • “It knows when to be dark, when to be funny, and Uchikoshi has again proven himself to be a talented writer, capable of drawing players into his world and locking them in until they successfully find a way out.”
    • “The writing oscillates between dark and heavy, and light and humorous, creating a fantastic balance that enhances the overall experience.”
  • music3 mentions

    The music in the game is highly praised for its ability to enhance the atmosphere, drawing comparisons to iconic soundtracks from titles like Silent Hill and Resident Evil. Reviewers note that the soundtrack perfectly complements the game's tone, contributing to both the dark and humorous elements of the narrative while elevating the overall experience.

    • “The soundtrack is on point and suits the tone of the game perfectly.”
    • “Memorable soundtrack, fitting conclusion.”
    • “Great character writing, use of animations is an overall boon, great escape room design.”
    • “The music feels like a confusing blend of different genres, lacking a cohesive identity.”
    • “It tries to evoke emotions but often falls flat, leaving the atmosphere feeling disjointed.”
    • “The soundtrack is reminiscent of other games but fails to bring anything new or engaging to the experience.”
  • replayability1 mentions

    The game offers good replayability due to its engaging puzzles and the innovative use of fragmented memories, which encourages players to revisit scenes for hidden clues. However, some players feel that the absence of closure for previous characters and a traditional final puzzle may detract from the overall experience.

    • “The puzzles were fun, and the new gimmick of fragmented memories played out of order leaves you constantly questioning every little action of that particular scene. Clues are everywhere, making for good replay value when you decide to play the game again.”
    • “The emotional and realistic writing creates a compelling experience that encourages multiple playthroughs to fully appreciate the depth of the story.”
    • “With so many choices and different outcomes, each playthrough feels fresh and engaging, making it hard to resist diving back in for another round.”
  • emotional1 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its tasteful and sincere writing, particularly in realistic scenes, though some twists may feel abrupt. The fragmented memory gimmick enhances engagement and replay value, but players express disappointment over the lack of closure for previous characters and the absence of a traditional final puzzle.

    • “The writing of emotional, realistic scenes was tasteful and sincere, leaving you constantly questioning every little action of that particular scene.”
    • “The new gimmick of fragmented memories played out of order adds depth to the experience, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.”
    • “The puzzles were fun and engaging, but it was the emotional storytelling that truly resonated with me.”
  • character development1 mentions

    Character development in the game features intriguing new additions and well-crafted backstories, though some players feel that more emphasis could have been placed on these elements. Returning characters exhibit significant changes, which are intentionally designed to reflect the impact of previous game endings on their development.

    • “The new additions to the characters are intriguing, and their backstories are well-crafted, though I wish there had been a bit more emphasis on them.”
    • “Some of the returning characters are surprisingly different, which seems intentional and adds depth to their development, especially in relation to the true endings from previous games.”
    • “The character development is engaging, with a mix of familiar faces and new twists that keep the story fresh and unpredictable.”
    • “The character development feels rushed and lacks depth, making it hard to connect with the new additions.”
    • “While the backstories are interesting, they don't get enough focus, leaving characters feeling underdeveloped.”
    • “Some returning characters have changed so much that it feels jarring, and it detracts from the overall narrative.”
  • graphics1 mentions

    The graphics on the Vita are noted to be subpar, with 3D visuals suffering in quality compared to other platforms.

    • “The 3D visuals take a hit on the Vita.”
    • “The graphics feel outdated and lack detail.”
    • “Character models are poorly designed and lack polish.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

81% average critic score

Play time

9hMedian play time
9hAverage play time
9-9hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 1 analyzed playthroughs

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