"Parasite Eve" received "generally favorable" reviews, according to review aggregator Metacritic. IGN praised the game for its beautiful graphics and cinematic sequences, as well as its mature tone, but noted, along with other reviewers, the game's linear plot structure. "Game Informer" cited the games "exquisite" backdrops but bemoaned its long load times each time players enter a new environment or engage an enemy. "GameSpot" said the game had a cinematic look, and had an "astounding" level of detail for real-life locations in New York City. The lack of any voice acting or singing, however, hindered dramatic scenes such as the opera and subsequent mass combustion of the entire audience at the game's start.