It’s important to mention that, Frogwares is no stranger to the character of Sherlock Holmes. Since the early part of the year 2000, they’ve been producing sleuthing adventures involving the famous, fictional detective. They’ve thrown their hat back into the ring once more. PlayStation 5 gamers will need their wits about them if they are to solve the mystery surrounding this new installment.
Sherlock Holmes Chapter One Story
The Mediterranean backdrop of Cordona offers splendid sights for the budding detective. With a sunny backdrop and a beautiful mansion, one would think the excursion would prove pleasurable. This thought is only a fantasy. It is not an enticing vacation that attracts Holmes to the island. The mystery surrounding his own mother’s untimely demise drags him onto the adventure. The intrepid player will need to master Sherlock’s skills in perception when navigating the multiple twists and turns surrounding the case. This experience includes being wary of the many false leads that crop up during the course of the story.
Sherlock Holmes Chapter One Gameplay
Sherlock Holmes Chapter One gives the player many options in this open world adventure. For instance, the combat can be disabled in the game options. This is a nice inclusion for players who prefer the more investigative approach without allowing the action elements to interfere. Accompanying the detective is John. Not John Watson, but an imaginary John. He provides color commentary along with the occasional observation. Not that Sherlock is in much need of help when it comes to the deductions he’ll make on his own accord. Nonetheless, the addition is a welcome one.
Most of the investigations occurring within the game are not exactly guided, so be prepared to take time thinking the solutions through when gathering clues and pursuing leads. One valuable hint we can impart is that Sherlock can don disguises. Use this feature to trick people into divulging crucial details.
Combat
Now if the player doesn’t mind getting into a fire fight, then leave the combat option on in the menu. During the open world exploration Sherlock will encounter the occasional fight with armed ruffians. The game gives the option to arrest or kill the enemy. Aside from provoking the occasional complaint from John, fatally dispatching the enemies has no bearing on the exploration. The only notable thing a player would be missing out on is cash rewards that would be yielded with a successful arrest. A reputational system would’ve been a nice addition. Still, we see why they eschewed it; the combat can be toggled off through the menu. Regardless, the addition of the action does make for a nice change of pace.
Where Sherlock Holmes Chapter One excels is through the presentation. Character models and shadows look solid. The game offers a great deal of interactivity with the clues and articles that the player can examine. These elements come together to give the game an organic life of its own.
Verdict
Sherlock Holmes Chapter One provides an entertaining experience with its attention to detail and emphasis on exploration. This game requires some contemplation during the investigation. Given the player is donning the role of Scotland Yard’s most famous detective, we imagine few people would want it any other way.
