The Casting of Frank Stone

The Casting of Frank Stone is a cinematic horror adventure developed by Supermassive Games that expands the lore of the Dead by Daylight universe. Set in North America, the game follows a gripping narrative where players face terrifying choices and consequences, blending puzzle-solving elements with signature quick-time events. Through its behind-view perspective, the atmospheric story explores the origins of the monstrous Frank Stone while delivering branching paths, high-quality performances, and visual fidelity powered by Unreal Engine 5.

The Casting of Frank Stone: Review

In the sprawling landscape of video game horror, few titles have managed to blend narrative depth with interactive scares as effectively as Supermassive Games’ latest offering, The Casting of Frank Stone. Set within the chilling universe of Dead by Daylight, this game is not just a spin-off; it’s a deep dive into the lore that has captivated fans for years. As a professional game journalist and historian, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing this title firsthand, and I must say, it’s a journey worth taking.

Development History & Context

Studio and Creators’ Vision

Supermassive Games, known for their cinematic horror experiences like Until Dawn and The Dark Pictures Anthology, took on a monumental task with The Casting of Frank Stone. The studio’s vision was to create a game that not only expanded the Dead by Daylight universe but also stood on its own as a compelling narrative experience. The collaboration with Behaviour Interactive, the creators of Dead by Daylight, was a natural fit, given their shared love for horror and dark storytelling.

Technological Constraints and Gaming Landscape

Released in 2024, The Casting of Frank Stone benefited from the advancements in Unreal Engine 5, which allowed for stunning visuals and immersive environments. The gaming landscape at the time was ripe for a title that combined deep lore with interactive storytelling, a niche that Supermassive Games had already carved out for themselves. The challenge was to integrate the asymmetrical multiplayer elements of Dead by Daylight into a single-player narrative without losing the essence of either game.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

The story of The Casting of Frank Stone is a complex web of time-traveling narratives that span from 1963 to 2024. The central figure, Frank Stone, is a serial killer whose actions have far-reaching consequences across different timelines. The game follows a group of young filmmakers in the 1980s who inadvertently release Frank’s spirit while filming a horror movie. In the present day, a group of strangers are summoned to a mysterious manor, each possessing a piece of the cursed film that holds Frank’s spirit.

The characters are well-developed, with each having their own motivations and backstories. Linda Castle, the director of the 1980s film, is a standout character whose journey across different timelines is both intriguing and emotionally resonant. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with tension, adding layers to the characters’ relationships and the overall narrative.

Dialogue and Themes

The dialogue in The Casting of Frank Stone is a strength of the game. It’s not just about conveying information but also about building character and atmosphere. The themes explored in the game are rich and varied, touching on guilt, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s actions. The game delves into the idea of reality versus fiction, questioning the ethics of turning real-life horrors into entertainment.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

The gameplay mechanics in The Casting of Frank Stone are a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and quick-time events (QTEs). Players navigate through environments, interact with objects, and make crucial decisions that affect the story’s outcome. The integration of Dead by Daylight‘s skill check mechanics into the QTEs is a clever touch that makes the game feel more connected to its source material.

Combat and Character Progression

Combat in The Casting of Frank Stone is minimal and largely passive. Players use a camera to photograph Frank’s spirit, which is a unique and effective way to handle the horror elements. Character progression is more about uncovering the story and making the right choices rather than leveling up or acquiring new abilities.

UI and Innovative Systems

The user interface is clean and intuitive, allowing players to focus on the story and gameplay. One of the standout features is the “Cutting Room Floor,” which allows players to revisit key moments in the game and change their decisions. This adds a layer of replayability and encourages players to explore different outcomes.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

The game’s setting is a blend of real-world locations and supernatural elements. Cedar Hills, the town where Frank Stone’s crimes took place, is a character in its own right. The environments are meticulously detailed, from the rusted gears of the steel mill to the opulent decay of Gerant Manor. The atmosphere is thick with dread, and the use of lighting and sound design amplifies the horror.

Visual Direction

The visual direction of The Casting of Frank Stone is top-notch. The use of Unreal Engine 5 allows for stunning graphics and realistic character models. The attention to detail in the environments is impressive, and the game’s aesthetic is a perfect blend of gritty realism and supernatural horror.

Sound Design

The sound design in The Casting of Frank Stone is exceptional. The voice acting is stellar, with each character bringing their own unique voice to the story. The soundtrack is haunting and atmospheric, perfectly complementing the game’s dark themes. The use of sound effects, from the creaking of old machinery to the distant screams, adds to the immersion.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

The Casting of Frank Stone received mixed reviews from critics, with a Metacritic score of 68. While some praised the game’s storytelling and visuals, others criticized its pacing and character development. Commercially, the game performed well, particularly among fans of Dead by Daylight and Supermassive Games’ previous works.

Influence on Subsequent Games and the Industry

The game’s influence can be seen in its integration of lore and Easter eggs, which have become a staple in modern horror games. The use of the “Cutting Room Floor” mechanic has also been praised for adding replayability and depth to the narrative. While it may not have revolutionized the genre, The Casting of Frank Stone has certainly left its mark on the horror landscape.

Conclusion

The Casting of Frank Stone is a testament to Supermassive Games’ ability to craft compelling narratives within established universes. While it may not be perfect, the game’s strengths lie in its atmospheric storytelling, rich lore, and innovative gameplay mechanics. For fans of Dead by Daylight and those who enjoy cinematic horror experiences, The Casting of Frank Stone is a must-play. It’s a game that, despite its flaws, stands as a significant entry in the annals of video game history.