The Quiet Man

The Quiet Man is an action-adventure beat 'em up video game developed by Human Head Studios and published by Square Enix for Microsoft Windows and PlayStation 4. The game's story is told through lengthy full motion video sequences, some of which feature live-action actors, inserted between the gameplay sequences. It features a deaf protagonist, reflected by having most of the events having muted sound with no subtitles. The Quiet Man was critically panned upon its release, with the complaints stemming from issues with the story, the underdeveloped gameplay sequences, and the lack of commitment displayed towards the deafness gimmick. In response, the audio was restored in a post-release update as an optional feature. Gameplay Most of the game consists of full motion videos and extended cutscenes, but players participate most intensely during combat scenarios. Wordless on screen symbols explain how combat can proceed. Players have the option of punching, kicking, and evasion, as well as combination moves. There is also a "focus" mode where players can "beat down" their opponent with a flurry of blows. Plot A young, deaf boy named Dane interrupts a quarrel between his friend, Taye, and a bully, Isaac, that results in Dane's mother Lorraine getting shot when Taye and Isaac struggle over a gun. Isaac takes credit for the killing and is arrested while Taye runs away. Dane's policeman father, Robert, blames Dane for his wife's death and becomes abusive toward him. Dane, traumatized by these events, makes up a character in his drawings named "The Quiet Man", who resembles a plague doctor.