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Metacritic score by platform
Review counts are still small three days after launch, so expect these numbers to move. The table shows the figures we read on Metacritic on October 30, 2026.
| Platform | Metascore | Critic reviews |
|---|---|---|
| PC | 74 — Mixed or Average | 8 |
| PlayStation 5 | 73 | 6 |
| Xbox Series X|S | Not enough reviews yet | 1 |
| User score (all) | 7.9 — Generally Favorable | 8 ratings |
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Individual critic scores
These are the published PC scores listed on Metacritic, with a short summary of each verdict.
| Outlet | Score | Verdict in brief |
|---|---|---|
| The Outerhaven | 80 | Handles trauma respectfully |
| Oyungezer | 80 | Delivers the dark survival horror it promises |
| Uagna.it | 80 | Strong conclusion, a step up from the second game |
| Gamesurf | 75 | Inconsistent stalker AI, plentiful supplies |
| The Wand Report | 70 | Scares earned through story and atmosphere |
| TheSixthAxis | 70 | Solid stalker horror that ties up the trilogy |
| SpazioGames | 65 | Soundtrack by Akira Yamaoka and Aram Shahbazians shines |
What critics liked
The recurring praise is for the narrative payoff. Several reviews say the game closes the story threads opened in Tormented Fathers and Broken Porcelain, and that its scares come from atmosphere rather than gore. The soundtrack, co-composed by Silent Hill's Akira Yamaoka, is singled out more than once.
If the story is why you are here, read story explained first, then the spoiler-marked ending explained.
What critics did not like
The stalker AI is the most repeated criticism: reviewers describe pursuers that can be inconsistent, limited enemy variety and some technical rough edges. Gamesurf also felt healing supplies were plentiful and that hypnosis abilities act more like keys than flexible tools.
In practice this means the convent is more forgiving than earlier entries. Our stalkers guide and hypnosis guide explain how to use those systems anyway.
Is it worth buying on PS5?
The PS5 aggregate sits within a point of PC, so critics have not flagged a weaker console version. If you are deciding between platforms or editions, compare platforms and price before you buy. A first run takes roughly eight hours according to the official FAQ.