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Frostpunk 2: Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Frostpunk 2
Platforms:
- PC (Sep 20, 2024)
Trailer:
Developer: 11 bit studios
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 85 average - 95% recommended - 44 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
33bits - Fernando Sánchez - Spanish - 92 / 100
>Frostpunk 2 is a continuous game with its first installment, although the developer has been able to expand and enhance a formula that worked wonderfully in Frostpunk - construction and management of cities plus survival - delving into expansion, management, and colony construction. and above all the relationships with the different factions and the political aspect, creating a much more complete title and to a certain extent somewhat more complex, but superior to its predecessor. If you liked the first game or you like the genre, Frostpunk 2 is a title that you cannot miss.
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ACG - Jeremy Penter - Wait for Sale
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
AltChar - Semir Omerovic - 97 / 100
>Frostpunk 2 is an absolutely incredible game, a true shining masterpiece with a unique setting, mechanics and addicting gameplay loop. Since it's also on Game Pass, I'm recommending it even to players who aren't really into these types of games. You won't regret it.
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Atarita - Eren Eroğlu - Turkish - 100 / 100
>Frostpunk 2 is one of those rare, unique games that we rarely encounter. It has evolved in an incredible way compared to the first game, taking it to an entirely new level.
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Bazimag - Sina Golabzade - Persian - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 may not feel as personal as the previous game but it not only has kept the tense atmosphere we’ve come to expect from this series, it has also brought the scale to a whole new and unexpected level.
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But Why Tho? - Arron Kluz - 9 / 10
>What is most impressive about Frostpunk 2 is how well it blends its emotional narratives with its gameplay mechanics. It challenges the player on an emotional and moral level while also challenging them to grapple with some of the most intricately linked and well-refined gameplay the strategy genre has seen in years.
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CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 8 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 expands on what made the original so fresh. While a harsh difficulty might turn some players off, forging through is the name of the game in Frostpunk 2.
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COGconnected - Mark Steighner - 90 / 100
>Frostpunk 2 broadens the scope and deepens the mechanics of the first game, adding even greater complexity to puzzle-like city building that remains addictive and unique in the genre.
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Cinelinx - Emily Hughes - 5 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 has made improvements in just about every way, making it an immersive and engaging city-builder that every strategy lover should consider adding to their library!
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Digital Trends - Jason Rodriguez - 4 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 scales up the drama with a bigger, more strategic sequel that's easy to get lost in.
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Digitec Magazine - Simon Balissat - German - 3 / 5
>Like its predecessor, Frostpunk 2 is extremely dark and dystopian. If you are looking for a laid-back building strategy game to relax in, you are in the wrong place here. The rays of hope are few and far between, and death and despair are omnipresent. The political components, the exciting story and the decisions whose consequences you have to live with are great. Yes, it lacks the complexity of comparable strategy games. If you are looking for the great depth and complex gameplay mechanics of Anno, you won't find them here. Nevertheless, Frostpunk 2 is a worthy successor. The annoying micromanagement is gone, exploration and politics take up more space, which I appreciate. If you can cope with the dark scenario, you can definitely pick it up. “Frostpunk 2” only just misses out on four stars.
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GAMES.CH - Steffen Haubner - German - 88%
>The announcement of an official modding tool alone is likely to bring tears of joy to the eyes of "Frostpunk" fans. The setting remains attractive, the artwork and gameplay are equally clever, even if the novelty value has worn off a bit. But everything is now bigger, more complex and more impressive, and it is remarkable how smoothly 11 bit has interlocked the various elements and made them shine. There is always something to do in "Frostpunk 2", even if the feeling of a living game world, as one is used to from "Anno 1800", is missing here simply because of the thematic requirements. Anyone who wants an extraordinary experience and some real gaming challenges will feel at home in the eternal ice.
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GRYOnline.pl - Konrad Sarzyński - Polish - 7.5 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 is different that its predecessor. It too experiments with gameplay and tries to create a thrilling system of making difficult decisions, but the bigger scale of governing an entire region looks a bit uninished. Great potential to create a giant world was squandered, and the thing that generates most fun, is the policital system, not building your city.
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Game Rant - Max Borman - 4.5 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 has once again whisked players away to an apocalyptic Earth for a city building experience that many may not soon forget.
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GameLuster - Nirav Gandhi - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 is a masterpiece of design, and it'll be a warm day in Frostland before I let a single one of you skip it.
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>Frostpunk 2 remains quite brutal, and yet offers a great city-building gameplay with a very stylish visuals. You can also clearly see in which ways developers addressed some of the criticism of the first game, making the sequel that much better game.
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GameSpot - Kurt Indovina - 8 / 10
>Frostpunk 2's challenging gameplay makes for a compelling experience despite a dour and cynical view of human nature.
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Gamefa - Arman Zarmehr - Persian - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 is one of those games that fans of the strategy genre and city-building games "must" experience; We are faced with a multi-layered deep experience with different moral and political approaches, which is in many ways bigger and better than its original version. The expansion of the scale of cities compared to the first version, as well as the presence of mechanisms such as Council Hall, present attractive challenges to the player. Distinct factions with different ideologies have a significant impact on the political dimensions of New London governance, and its extensive and influential skill tree adds several strategic twists to the city's progression.
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Gameliner - Anita van Beugen - Dutch - 4 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 offers a robust survival city-builder with a strong focus on social and political aspects, appealing to newcomers and fans alike, though it may leave existing fans with mixed feelings due to its broader scope and diminished focus on individual connections and survival.
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>Forstpunk 2 should appeal not only to building and planning enthusiasts but also to people who appreciate a serious narrative and a more profound treatment of the factions and characters present in the game.
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Gamer Guides - Ben Chard - 86 / 100
>Frostpunk 2 is a great entry into the city-survival genre and one that will hook even newcomers to the genre. With a fantastic campaign full of difficult choices, a sandbox mode available from the start, and so many options on how you shape New London, the larger scale of Frostpunk 2 is one that succeeds in every way.
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>If Frostpunk 2 continues to provide players with more playable content in the future, like its predecessor, then it will definitely be a better title than it is now.
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God is a Geek - Chris White - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 requires your patience and ability to make tough decisions, but rewards you for sticking with it and respecting its systems.
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IGN - Dan Stapleton - 8 / 10
>Thanks to a ground-up rethinking of its ice-age city builder mechanics, Frostpunk 2's larger scale is less intimate but more socially and politically complex than the original.
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INVEN - Dongyong Seo - Korean - 8 / 10
>'FrostPunk 2' has an irreplaceable charm. The distinct feelings of bleakness, solitude, and the desperate struggle for survival remain unparalleled, just as in its predecessor. The larger scale of the city, the conflicts arising between communities within, and the weighty decisions required to manage and mediate these tensions create a unique and engaging experience.
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NoobFeed - Sarwar Ron - 95 / 100
>Expanding upon the original's strengths, Frostpunk 2 adds additional features, a more in-depth storyline, and more intricate city-building. Even while it takes time to get going, once it does, it unveils a massive game that surpasses the original in size and scale. Although there are some issues, especially with how some mechanics are explained, the game provides a deep and thrilling experience worth delving into.
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PC Gamer - Christopher Livingston - 85 / 100
>Not as satisfying a city builder as the original, but the society simulation is still on point.
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PCGamesN - Reid McCarter - 8 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 makes clever reconsiderations of, and expansions on, the first game's design, offering a better rounded, even harsher follow-up to the original's concept.
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Prima Games - Enzo Zalamea - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 easily immerses the player by putting them in the center of the turmoil of a never-ending battle against the winter. You'll constantly be hit with difficult decisions all while trying to build structures for the betterment of your people.
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Pro Game Guides - Stephanie Watel - 4 / 5
>In the world of city-builder games, the Frostpunk franchise stands proudly at the snow-capped peak of Mount Everest in terms of what definitively is the most all-around challenging IP in the genre. Frostpunk 2 easily helps it keep that title in a tight-gloved fist, with its incredibly intricate game design and uncompromising difficulty that is best suited for the most fearless and ambitious of Stewards.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Sin Vega - Unscored
>An atmospheric, bold attempt to reinvent its own society-moulding subgenre whose story and building features too often frustrate with too few options or distract with too many.
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SECTOR.sk - Branislav Kohút - Slovak - 8.5 / 10
>A post-apocalyptic world with an eternal winter will once again entrust us with the fight for the survival of the survivors, whose fate will this time be strongly influenced by civil factions. A complex system of voting and negotiation is involved, which makes the game unique, but also challenging and sometimes frustrating.
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Screen Rant - Deven McClure - 4 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 is an innovative take on management.
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Sirus Gaming - Erickson Melchor - 8 / 10
>Frostpunk 2’s emphasis on intensity and foresight makes it a worthy sequel to the first game. While it treads well-worn paths, the game takes everything we’ve come to expect from the series and expands upon the idea in every way possible. I highly recommend the game for fans of the series. First-time players may find it too daunting but that’s all part of the Frostpunk experience.
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Spaziogames - Daniele Spelta - Italian - 8.5 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 puts its gameplay at the service of the story and, through simple game mechanics, manages to make the player experience strong emotions and a constant moral dilemma.
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TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 7 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 takes everything that made the first game challenging and scales it up. Bigger cities, more mechanics, and larger expansions will push a player's ability to balance so many resources and the consequences of their own actions. Overcoming these will reward you with an immense sense of pride.
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The Games Machine - Gabriele Barducci - Italian - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 combines the solidity of the mechanics of the first chapter, with some excellent additions to make the game truly one of a kind. Not just an excellent management software, but a real gaming experience.
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The Punished Backlog - Amanda Tien - 8.8 / 10
>11 Bit Studios should be extremely proud of Frostpunk 2; it’s an intoxicatingly detailed and beautiful survival management game. For those who do want more Frostpunk, Frostpunk 2 delivers and then some. Fans of games like Crusader Kings 2 will rejoice, and these added social elements may delight fans of Sid Meier’s Civilization series. > >The array of laws and choices means Frostpunk 2 is hyper-replayable, for those interested in that sort of thing. Just a glance at the Steam Achievements list makes it clear that there’s a lot you can do and different approaches you can take. I’m already considering what I’ll do next time.
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TheGamer - Tessa Kaur - 4.5 / 5
>Frostpunk 2 has shaped up to be a hefty sequel that built intelligently on the bones of its already excellent predecessor, capturing all the most compelling parts of the first game while exploring human nature and morality with deftness.
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Try Hard Guides - Erik Hodges - 10 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 does exactly what a sequel should do. It excels in all the ways the original game did while increasing the scale and adding even more. It is an excellent expansion on everything we loved about Frostpunk and delivers a new, utterly unique experience and story, and one that fans of the original, as well as newcomers to the franchise, are sure to love.
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Twinfinite - Keenan McCall - 4 / 5
>While it might not be the most approachable city builder in the world, Frostpunk 2 is still an exemplary entry in the genre.
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VideoGamer - Tom Bardwell - 8 / 10
>Frostpunk 2 is a worthy sequel that ramps up the grit and immersion, but sheds some of the original's magic in the pursuit of innovation.
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Wccftech - Chris Wray - 9 / 10
>Frostpunk is an excellent looking, excellent sounding, and great playing organic growth and succession from the original. Spreading further along the wasteland, you have to balance more as you deal with politics, resources, factions, and ever more challenges, often including settling and building in new areas. Still a challenge, but more approachable, this is yet another city builder that will shine out amongst others.
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Zoomg - Afshin Piroozi - Persian - 9 / 10
>Overall, 11 Bit Studios has managed to create a highly respectable and valuable sequel for the first installment of this series in Frostpunk 2. The game has become significantly more extensive and detailed in almost every aspect, and in terms of content delivery, it reaches a more desirable level. This allows players to enjoy it for a longer period of time. If you’re interested in strategy and city-building games or if you were a fan of the previous version, Frostpunk 2 is something you must play.
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Astro Bot | Review Thread (95 OpenCritic)
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Astro Bot
Platforms:
- PlayStation 5 (Sep 6, 2024)
Trailers:
Developer: Asobi
Publisher: Sony
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 95 average - 100% recommended - 72 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
ACG - Jeremy Penter - Buy
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
CGMagazine - Jordan Biordi - 10 / 10
>ASTRO BOT is creative, inventive, insanely fun, and a true love letter to the legacy of the PlayStation.
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COGconnected - Jaz Sagoo - 95 / 100
>Astro Bot is a delightful adventure that blends original ideas with a solid platforming foundation, delivering an experience that has long been missing from the PlayStation Studios catalog.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Luke Mitchell - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is not just another platformer; it's a vibrant celebration of PlayStation's storied history and a triumphant re-introduction to its newest mascot. Every world offers compelling gameplay that is elevated to the next level by the innovative use of the DualSense controller, and its heartwarming nods to the last 30 years of PlayStation ensure that the experience is charmingly nostalgic while still feeling refreshingly original. Astro Bot is whimsical, inventive and just feels downright fun to play. While Astro Bot's previous outings were impressive, this latest adventure solidifies him as a beloved character in his own right. They've truly done it. PlayStation has finally found the mascot it's always wanted.
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ComingSoon.net - Tyler Treese - 10 / 10
>Filled with brilliant small touches that will leave a smile on your face, Astro Bot is one of the best 3D platformers ever made and a true celebration of gaming.
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Console Creatures - Luke Williams - Essential
>Team ASOBI again perfectly demonstrates why they are a first-party PlayStation Studio with Astro Bot. While the DualSense implementation is lovely, Astro Bot delivers on its promise of something we rarely see: straightforward, linear games that don't promise the world but deliver an experience that's out-of-this-world, astronomical fun. Every time I zipped through its glorious galaxy, I was joyful and excited throughout the playthrough. It's rare to feel so much joy today, but that's precisely what Astro Bot has provided.
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Daily Star - Tom Hutchison - 5 / 5
>Excellent for for gamers of all ages and abilities.
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Digital Chumps - Nathaniel Stevens - 9.5 / 10
>Astro Bot from developer Team Asobi and Sony Interactive Entertainment is a wonderful entry into Astro’s bigger adventure possibilities. The game features creative levels, plenty of personality and positivity, and several reasons to replay it once the main adventure has concluded. While it could have a bit more variety with its common enemies, the bosses, and uniquely built levels deliver more entertainment and joyful meta than should legally be allowed. This is a great big beginning for what should be a long-lasting Sony mascot.
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Digitec Magazine - Domagoj Belancic - German - 5 / 5
>Astro Bot impresses with its ingenious level design, detailed visual presentation and flawless controls. >The game lets me feel every step, every jump and every attack with haptic feedback, visual feedback and sound effects. No other game feels so damn satisfying to control. > >The game is bursting with original ideas in its level design and creative power-ups that deserve their own games. This perfect platformer package is rounded off by a host of guest appearances from well-known gaming legends and levels inspired by iconic PlayStation games. Astro Bot is a love letter to PlayStation history and a must-play for anyone who owns a PS5.
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Easy Allies - Michael Damiani - 10 / 10
>Everything about Astro Bot is brimming with delight, polish, and creativity, elevating it to stand among the best platformers ever made.
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Eurogamer - Christian Donlan - 5 / 5
>Sony's glossy mascot gets an outing filled with imagination and loving craft.
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GGRecon - Joshua Boyles - 5 / 5
>If, like me, you’ve been waiting for Nintendo to deliver a new 3D Mario game for the best part of a decade, look no further - Team ASOBI has done it themselves. For those who own a PlayStation, consider Astro Bot an essential purchase.
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Game Rant - Dalton Cooper - 5 / 5
>Astro Bot from Team Asobi is a brilliant 3D platformer, one of the best PS5 exclusives, and an absolute joy to play from start to finish.
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GameSpot - Mark Delaney - 9 / 10
>Team Asobi cements itself as an essential PlayStation studio with an imaginative platformer for the ages.
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Gameffine - Uphar Dutta - 100 / 100
>Astro Bot is one of the best platformer games to have come out on the PlayStation platform. It outshines in terms of creativity and with every corner in the game having a secret is just pure joy. A great flow, captivating graphics and the endless homage to the franchise characters makes the game truly legendary.
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GamesRadar+ - Matt Cabral - 5 / 5
>Astro Bot doesn't just deliver on the promise and potential displayed in PS5 pack-in demo Astro's Playroom, but soars above and beyond to serve up a near-perfect platformer to rival – and possibly surpass – the best of Super Mario's Mushroom Kingdom romps.
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Gaming Age - Benny Rose - 10 / 10
>Astro Bot is well worth the price of admission and will be a great gaming option for all ages with the Holidays coming up quickly.
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Gaming Nexus - Eric Hauter - 10 / 10
>Team ASOBI came out swinging for the fences, expanding on the existing games in the series in every direction. Astro Bot is a delight in every sense of the word. A magnificent tour through Sony PlayStation's history, the franchise – and the Astro Bot character – has enough charm and chops to now launch forward as PlayStation's premier mascot-driven series. Stellar platforming, a mountain of secrets, and a never-ending sense of discovery and adventure, Astro Bot is a new classic. So. Much. Fun.
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GamingBolt - Shubhankar Parijat - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is a wonderful love letter to all things PlayStation, and an exceptional platformer in its own right. If you own a PS5, you need to play this game.
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GamingTrend - Jack Zustiak - 90 / 100
>Astro Bot captures all of the strong points of a brand new puppy. It's cute, playful, and doggedly loyal to PlayStation's history. While it still has room to grow into its legs and sharpen its teeth, most missteps are easily forgiven. I mean, just look at it!
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Geeks & Com - Marc-Antoine Bergeron Cote - French - 9 / 10
>Quite simply, Astro Bot is a more complete experience than its predecessor, featuring all the key elements that made the franchise such a success. The developers at Team Asobi have come up with their biggest project to date, leaving us wanting more and more. Even after I'd finished the game 100%, I still wanted to play levels over and over again. Progression is addictive, and the art direction pays homage to the world of video games. Leaving aside the few problems of inaccuracy due to the genre, for me, the title is already a benchmark for 3D platform games!
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God is a Geek - Lyle Pendle - 10 / 10
>Astro Bot is a love letter to video games that sets a new standard in 3D platforming, with ridiculously creative stages and gorgeous visuals.
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Hardcore Gamer - Michéal Murphy - 4.5 / 5
>While enemies and themes could have used more variety, Astro Bot is a sure-fire Game of the Year contender and poised to be one of PlayStation 5's signature titles that's well deserving of said namesake.
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IGN - Simon Cardy - 9 / 10
>A very inventive platformer in its own right, Astro Bot is particularly special for anyone with a place in their heart for PlayStation.
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IGN Italy - Francesco Destri - Italian - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is a very accessible and enjoyable 3D platform game, featuring gameplay full of great ideas, flawless controls, and solid graphics. It's hard not to fall in love with it, especially if you're new to the genre.
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IGN Korea - Jieun Koo - Korean - 9 / 10
>The general intention of the development was to focus on easier difficulty, even if you never played platformers. So when players expect an easy and average game, they will be positively surprised by how thoughtful the experience would be. The intensity of details in the DualSense's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers allow some of the most dynamic gaming experiences ever. The players will be in for a ride for the 30 plus years of PlayStation titles and the console legacy, which were naturally blended within its gameplay.
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IGN Spain - Estrella Gómez - Spanish - 10 / 10
>Astro is back stronger than ever. Team Asobi has created a game that not only celebrates the history of PlayStation, but also the very existence of the fans. Astro Bot is a platformer that, despite always following the same thread, manages to constantly surprise the player and awaken a multitude of different emotions.
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Impulsegamer - Andrew Paul - 4.5 / 5
>However as an arcade game, Astro Bot ticks all the right boxes and really challenges the medium but in a good way with its crazy mechanics, sturdy controls and next-gen experience, particularly with the DualSense Controller.
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Kakuchopurei - Alleef Ashaari - 90 / 100
>Team Asobi's Astro Bot is proof and evidence that the best 3D platformers are timeless and will always be fun when they're well-made with passion and love, and that's exactly what Astro Bot is. If you're a long-time PlayStation fan who's been with the brand since the original PS1 days, there's no way Astro Bot won't make you relive your best nostalgic memories and make you feel like a kid again, in all the best ways.
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Kotaku - Moises Taveras - Unscored
>For what it is, though, Astro Bot is incredible, and that is worth celebrating here and now. I just can’t help walking away from the experience with a bittersweet taste in my mouth and a hope that someday soon, we don’t have to look to gaming’s past for the best bits of it all.
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Nerdburglars - Dan Hastings - 8.5 / 10
>Astro Bot on PS5 is a delightful expansion of everything fans loved about Astro's Playroom, offering more levels, power-ups, and impressive DualSense features. The game showcases stunning visuals that fully utilize the PS5's hardware, making each level a visual spectacle. With sharp controls and creative level designs, Astro Bot provides a fun, polished platforming experience that’s both accessible and engaging for players of all ages. If you enjoyed the original, this game is a must-play.
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New Game Network - Alex Varankou - 84 / 100
>As an entertaining, accessible, and polished 3D platformer, Astro Bot offers plenty of variety in both visuals and gameplay, delivering a lively space adventure with plenty of PlayStation references.
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Nexus Hub - Ryan Pretorius - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is an absolute must-play - Team Asobi delivers one of the most wildly creative and enjoyable PS5 games to date, packed with charm, sincerity and outstanding game design.
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One More Game - Chris Garcia - 10 / 10
>PlayStation has once again worked its magic, delivering a confident GOTY contender and one of the best experiences this year. Despite its simplicity, the game is supremely fun, and perhaps the highest compliment I can give is that you’ll play through the entire game with a smile on your face. Astro Bot proves that games do not need extremely bloated budgets and development times to succeed when you are laser-focused on fun and quality.
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PlayStation Universe - John-Paul Jones - 10 / 10
>An obscenely polished and soul-affirming triumph from every angle, Astro Bot isn't just an unabashed celebration of all things PlayStation, it's a deeply passionate celebration of everything you could and should love about a video game. There are no microtransactions, no season passes and no busywork padding - just precisely engineered 3D platforming with an overabundance of joy on offer. Astro Bot is a big, warm hug of a videogame that also happens to be not just one of the best platform games ever made, but one of the best PS5 games ever made, too. Team Asobi, please never stop making these games.
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Press Start - Kieron Verbrugge - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is an easy pick for one of the year's best, if not the PS5's as a whole. The first fully-spec'd adventure might not move the needle forward for 3D platformers, but it's a triumphant effort from Team Asobi that stands toe-to-toe with some of the best in the genre. It's full of joy and surprise, and presented with an astonishing level of detail and tactility and packed to the rafters with reverence for PlayStation history.
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Push Square - Stephen Tailby - 10 / 10
>Astro Bot is a stunning 3D platformer, and easily among the best games in PS5's library. It fully delivers on the promise of Astro's Playroom, building on the rock solid core of tight controls and inventive gameplay and turning everything up to 11. With tons to see and do, almost endless fresh ideas, innovative use of the DualSense's features, and truly charming presentation, it's a confident and cohesive experience that players of all ages will love. To top it all off, it's a perfect game to celebrate PlayStation's 30th anniversary, reflecting on the myriad series that made the platform what it is today.
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Rectify Gaming - Henry - 9.5 / 10
>Team ASOBI did an outstanding job with Astro Bot, a delightful yet playful platformer that is sure to capture the hearts of many gamers and one that I found difficult to put down once I started playing. Its innovative use of the DualSense controller, stunning visual design, engaging audio, and charming narrative make it pure bliss to play and most definitely give Nintendo a run for their money!
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Shacknews - TJ Denzer - 10 / 10
>Astro Bot is a charming and cheeky nod to a lot of PlayStation history and a powerful demonstration of PS5 hardware, but more than anything, it's just a ridiculously good game.
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Sirus Gaming - Lexuzze Tablante - 10 / 10
>Astro Bot not only drives you back down memory lane, but it successfully captures your heart by bringing your beloved franchises into one, big adorable package that brings a lot of experiences back from the depths of our core memory. Astro Bot is lovable, charming, and most importantly, an incredible game.
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TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 9.5 / 10
>Astro Bot is a must-play title for anyone yearning for a classic 90s platformer and collect-a-thon. With vibrant levels and additional challenges, this game will be a blast for those of all skill levels. Fans of PlayStation since the PS1 will adore all of the references packed in.
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TheGamer - Stacey Henley - 5 / 5
>You tend to start writing lines in your head when compiling a review, and one that stuck with me early was to call Astro Bot 'the best platformer since Super Mario Odyssey'. Then I played a little more and started to think 'maybe it's better'.
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TheSixthAxis - Nic Bunce - 10 / 10
>Just as with Playroom, Astro Bot is a game that absolutely celebrates all things PlayStation, aimed at anyone and everyone who loves this console and the games that have made it what it is. Whether you're an old timer or a young kid with their first console - or better yet, a combination of the two - the are dozens of hours of fun to be mined here. It's a fun, easy-going romp through PlayStation history, and absolutely impossible to play without a smile plastered to your face.
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>Astro Bot is a phenomenal 3D platformer that elevates the PlayStation 5 experience with its charm, creativity, and engaging level design. From vibrant worlds to clever nods to PlayStation classics, every moment feels like a celebration of gaming. This is one adventure you won't want to miss—a true gem among PlayStation's recent offerings.
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UnGeek - Nicolo Manaloto - 9 / 10
>Using Astro’s Playroom as a template, Team Asobi delivered a bigger and better 3D platformer with Astro Bot. This latest series entry features creative levels and mechanics that are a joy to play. And while it’s accessible to players of all skill levels, it has enough challenges to satisfy platforming experts. To top it all off, it’s an excellent tribute to PlayStation’s various iconic and lesser-known characters. > >Even if Astro Bot doesn’t seem like the type of game that you’d play, it’s very much worth playing given the sheer fun that you can have with its creative platforming gameplay. As such, Astro Bot has the makings of PlayStation’s next big franchise.
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VGC - Jordan Middler - 5 / 5
>Astro Bot isn't simply an enjoyable platformer with some nostalgia tying it together; it's a generationally impressive entry in the genre that understands PlayStation at an atomic level. The sheer level of joy the game produces makes it impossible to compare it to anything other than Mario's very best adventure. Astro is no longer a vector through which to reference PlayStation icons; he is a PlayStation icon.
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VideoGamer - Tom Bardwell - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is special, a beaming reminder that bright, unfettered play is a truly wonderful thing.
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WellPlayed - Adam Ryan - 9 / 10
>Astro Bot is a wonderfully entertaining and diverse platformer that throws new ideas at you at an incredible rate, topped with stunning visuals and an injection of PlayStation nostalgia.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9 / 10
>The highest praise I can give Astro Bot is that it genuinely feels like PlayStation has its own Mario now. The gameplay, creativity and charm are competing with Nintendo's powerhouse with wonderful level design and engaging gameplay from start to finish. Only the relatively short runtime is a potential negative, and even that feels like a minor complaint. If you're a longtime PlayStation fan looking for a rush of nostalgia, a parent looking for a good game for their kids, or you just want a darn fun platformer, Astro Bot is a must-play.
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XGN.nl - Rox van der Helm - Dutch - 8.5 / 10
>If you love PlayStation and its franchises, you will absolutely love this game. The levels are unique, and you will have a smile on your face the entire game. What a brilliant experience.
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ZTGD - Ken McKown - 10 / 10
>This game brings me more joy than I expected, and it will be at the top of my favorite games of the year.
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Visions of Mana - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Visions of Mana
Platforms:
- Xbox Series X/S (Aug 29, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Aug 29, 2024)
- PC (Aug 29, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Aug 29, 2024)
Trailers:
- Visions of Mana - Tourism Guide | PS5 & PS4 Games
- Visions of Mana | Launch Date Trailer
- Visions of Mana | March Trailer
Developer: Square Enix
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 77 average - 65% recommended - 26 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 7 / 10
>Visions of Mana marks a solid return to the series, featuring an emotionally engaging storyline and striking visuals. However, the side quests and voice acting may turn some players off.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Pedro Cooray - 8.5 / 10
>I hope Visions of Mana signals a new, brighter direction for the series. This is more than a classic series receiving a jaw-dropping glow-up. This is a game that gives you a classic JRPG experience while being a modern blockbuster through and through. It's one of the best-looking games this generation and gives you dozens of unlockable options to customise your party your way. The story is deep and dark (for a PG title) and explores familiar themes in a new and engaging way. Visions of Mana confidently asserts its own spot among other long-running modern JRPGs, and I can't help but agree. It's proof that despite its age, this series still has a lot of potential left.
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ComingSoon.net - Tyler Treese - 8.5 / 10
>It's not hard to imagine that its story about tradition and sacrifice came from the development team grappling with the pressure of making another Mana game after many years without a new entry, but the end result is a proper continuation of its legacy.
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Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Recommended
>Visions of Mana is the first new Mana game in nearly two decades, bringing the series into a new generation. While some overgrown roots need a trim in the future—the various improvements to the combat, the level design, and the world are better than ever.
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Game Rant - Nick Rodriguez - 3.5 / 5
>The Mana series is back with Visions of Mana, a steady, fun, and slightly by-the-numbers entry in the style of the Trials of Mana remake.
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GamePro - Cassie Mammone - German - 73 / 100
>Unfortunately, the beautiful graphics and the successful gameplay of Visions of Mana don't completely distract from the boring story.
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GamingTrend - Katelyn Lawlor - 65 / 100
>Visions of Mana is a rollercoaster of emotions. The team under Square Enix has made a beautiful game with a solid mechanical foundation. But the balance of the game has been somewhat out of whack. What's here is not bad, just unpolished and a bit lacking. Visions of Mana is worth your time if the issues mentioned with combat and story won't be an issue for you. Maybe try it on a harder setting. At the very least, I recommend trying the free demo on every platform as that will give you a feel for how the game controls and feels. Visions of Mana is solid but doesn't quite reach the heights it aimed for.
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God is a Geek - Chris Hyde - 8 / 10
>Visions of Mana is an enjoyable adventure that doesn't push the boundaries but serves as a solid series entry for fans and newcomers alike.
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Hobby Consolas - Alberto Lloret - Spanish - 87 / 100
>Visions of Mana is not only one of the most beautiful action RPGs, it is also a very fun one, with a great combat system and a lot of content, although sometimes it seems that Square Enix has wanted to play it safe without betting on new ideas and concepts, although the move has worked out well.
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IGN - Nicholas Ransbottom - 8 / 10
>Exciting combat, a deeply rewarding class system, and likable characters make Visions of Mana a great comeback for this classic RPG series.
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IGN Italy - Alessandra Borgonovo - Italian - 8 / 10
>A commendable comeback for the series, capable of offering a beautiful, bittersweet story and captivating gameplay in its liveliness.
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One More Game - Ricki Buzon - 7 / 10
>Visions of Mana is a welcome entry in the long-running and beloved series, providing an entertaining and fun time for newcomers and fans alike. Surprisingly, one of its strongest points is its compelling story, and while it was simply a journey to the Mana Tree on the surface, the rest of the adventure is one to look out for. > >Previous-gen console players beware because the playthrough is not as smooth. The number of bugs we experienced on a PS4 was not enjoyable, and while the PS5 version was a lot smoother, caution is advised.
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PSX Brasil - Thiago de Alencar Moura - Portuguese - 85 / 100
>Visions of Mana is an excellent JRPG and the purest definition of a comfortable game. With functional and very fun gameplay, a simple story, but with a reflection to deliver and very well executed, make it, quite easily, one of the best (if not the best) games in the series so far.
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Press Start - Kieron Verbrugge - 7.5 / 10
>Visions of Mana feels like the RPG equivalent of being young and visiting a park in the summer. It's picturesque, warm and full of hope, inviting you to set out and explore and maybe come home with a couple scratches or bruises but always rewarding the effort with a new adventure or discovery. There's a fantastic balance of old and new ideas here, enough to satisfy patient series fans and newcomers alike, a hugely-enjoyable main story, stunning environments and satisfying combat going a long way to make up for some annoying technical and mechanical foibles.
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 7 / 10
>As a nostalgia-driven retread of the classic Mana adventure, Visions of Mana is rock solid - but it struggles to be anything more than a reminder of how magical those old RPGs could be. If you can look beyond the game's monotonous storytelling and tragically bland characters, the essence of an old-school excursion is here, in the exploration of wonderful environments and in battles against burly boss monsters.
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RPG Fan - Izzy Parsons - 87%
>A wonderful return to form for the Mana series. Visions of Mana will have longtime fans grinning from ear-to-ear.
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TechRaptor - Brittany Alva - 9 / 10
>Visions of Mana features an impactful story, well-written characters, fun combat, and a gorgeous world to get lost in with very few problems.
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The Outerhaven Productions - Matthew Paul - 4 / 5
>Visions is an excellent addition to Square Enix's Mana series and fans of the series will be excited with changes presented with the title. That said, the gameplay plays it safe at times, and can be a bit stale at times. Still, if you like the series, you'll enjoy Visions of Mana.
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oprainfall - Steve Baltimore - 4 / 5
>Despite my few nitpicks I had a great time with Visions of Mana. The story is fantastic and watching these characters grow as the adventure went on was pure joy. The world felt full and there were lots of hidden things to find while exploring each map. The combat is fun and having all the different classes for each character gave it lots of variety. While it took me around 30 hours to complete the main quest I left a lot undone with this one. There were plenty of upgrades, monsters and even a post story that I still need to get to. I feel this one is well worth the $59.99 price tag to fans of the series and newcomers alike.
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Elden Ring: Shadows of the Erdtree - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Platforms:
- PC (Jun 21, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Jun 21, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Jun 21, 2024)
- Xbox One (Jun 21, 2024)
- Xbox Series X/S (Jun 21, 2024)
Trailer:
Developer: FromSoftware
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 92 average - 97% recommended - 34 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
COGconnected - COGconnected - 97 / 100
>It’s a continuation of what made the Elden Ring fantastic in the first place. An epic adventure!
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Cerealkillerz - Gabriel Bogdan - German - 9.3 / 10
>Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree exceeds all expectations and overshadows every other expansion out there. With around 20-30 hours of new challenging content and areas, designed for veteran players, is the label "expansion" a bit of an understatement. Considering the sheer amount of new elements, including some of the most spectular boss fights of the series, smaller shortcomings such as reused enemy types that could've used a bigger facelift, or that upgrades only give you a generic boost for two values, carry no weight in the full picture.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Omi Koulas - 10 / 10
>Shadow of the Erdtree not only expands upon Elden Ring's lore and gameplay mechanics but also enriches the experience with its atmospheric storytelling and intricate world design. It beckons players to embrace the daunting journey through the Shadow Realm, promising a gripping adventure that resonates with the hallmark blend of challenge and discovery. What's on offer is one of the best FromSoftware experiences to date, capturing everything that made Elden Ring special and more.
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Destructoid - Chris Carter, Steven Mills - 9.5 / 10
>I think that’s the biggest point here, is that even though my expectations were high, Shadow of the Erdtree still managed to exceed them. From Software probably could have just added more Elden Ring and that would have been solid enough, but instead, Shadow of the Erdtree is yet another innovative iteration of the genre.
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>Shadow of the Erdtree is a fitting tribute to Elden Ring and a stunning finale that manages to surprise and shock us all over again. Those who enjoyed the base game will find much more to get their teeth into. This signs off the Elden Ring chapter of FromSoftware’s journey so conclusively and impressively, that it invokes questions about how they will ever top it again.
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Digital Trends - George Yang - 4.5 / 5
>Shadow of the Erdtree is so packed with new content that it almost feels like a sequel to Elden Ring.
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Eurogamer - Alexis Ong - 3 / 5
>Much of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is more of the same gruelling beauty - but a shift to explict storytelling and signposting means its essence as a living, evolving shared text is lost.
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GamingTrend - Henry Viola - 85 / 100
>I'm both happy and sad that Shadow of the Erdtree is the first and last expansion for Elden Ring. On one hand, it's a masterfully woven experience that expands on the contents of the base game, whereas on the other it leaves much more to be desired with its disappointing final boss. That being said, it's still very much worth your time if you're craving some more Elden Ring.
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IGN - Mitchell Saltzman - 10 / 10
>Like the base game did before it, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree raises the bar for single-player DLC expansions. It takes everything that made the base game such a landmark RPG, condenses it into a relatively compact 20-25 hour campaign, and provides fantastic new challenges for heavily invested fans to chew on.
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>An already near-perfect game gets a 30-hour expansion with this DLC. Adding a wealth of new stories within its mysterious world, 'Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree' will also challenge you with its formidable difficulty. The newly added equipment further enhances the enjoyment of the base game.
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Kakuchopurei - Jonathan Leo - 70 / 100
>Elden Ring's big expansion just adds more beautiful brutality and action RPGing carnage to its already-tough base. Shadow of the Erdtree is meant to test the mettle of the game's hardcore audience and isn't going to let up soon. This isn't going to change your mind about From Software's approach to its dungeon crawlers: it's either "get good" or go home and it intends to keep the messaging that way with its Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. > >The expansion's new offerings and updates, as well as epic boss fights, are still as grand and challenging as ever to the point that you may see optional boss Malenia (both versions) from the base game as a "walk in the park".
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>FromSoftware’s highly anticipated DLC could be a standalone game, it's just that good
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 9 / 10
>Exactly as engrossing and meticulously designed as you'd expect of FromSoftware but even by their standards this is an enthralling slice of DLC that underlines and enhances the achievements of the original.
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PC Gamer - Tyler Colp - 95 / 100
>A masterfully designed expansion to one of the best action RPGs of the last decade that not only complements the base game but expands its thematic and systemic scope even further.
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PSX Brasil - Portuguese - 90 / 100
>Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is the biggest and most ambitious expansion ever developed by FromSoftware. However, it could have been flawless if it weren't for the over-the-top recycling of enemies. Even so, the challenging boss fights and the great sense of exploration with the addition of new layouts on the maps make Shadow of the Erdtree an excellent conclusion to the Elden Ring journey.
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Polygon - Michael McWhertor - Unscored
>Even 40-plus hours in, I’m still figuring out how to tackle a particularly nasty dragon. And despite cursing all the bosses I’ve felled so far, as they’ve beaten me into submission dozens of times, I’m looking forward to going back and starting it all over at some point, ready to take on the challenge again.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A knotty, dense expansion that's home to some of the best moments in Elden Ring, but also some of its most frustrating.
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SECTOR.sk - Oto Schultz - Slovak - 9.5 / 10
>Expansion as complex as Shadow of the Erdtree has no real right to be labeled as a traditional DLC. Two-year long development cycle has spawned another story rich soulslike adventure across the Lands Between, or rather its shadowy counterpart. It is a world truly deprived of grace that alas suffers from a few technical issues too, but it never fails to just simply awe. Prepare to face the hardest From Software bosses to date, explore the most vertically varied biodiverse world and get ready to feel through the sounds and designs of the Shadow Realm.
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Slant Magazine - Justin Clark - 4.5 / 5
>It’s an extended encore and a haunting final bow for Miyazaki Hidetaka’s magnum opus.
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TechRaptor - William Worrall - 9 / 10
>Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is the lore and gameplay continuation that we all needed. The new challenges and a feeling of nostalgia help propel this DLC into the stratosphere.
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The Outerhaven Productions - 4.5 / 5
>Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree was worth the wait and then some. While I said this was FromSoftware’s most ambitious DLC yet, and that’s not hyperbole. If you enjoyed Elden Ring, you’ll love everything about this DLC. Savor it since Hidetaka Miyazaki has said there won’t be more content after this.
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TrueGaming - خالد العيسى - Arabic - 9 / 10
>Shadow of the Erdtree represents what we liked with the original content but with more meticulous designs to the map and a great variety of new weapons. A befitting comeback to this masterpiece.
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Video Chums - A.J. Maciejewski - 9.1 / 10
>Even with its slight shortcomings, ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree is the best expansion that I've ever played thanks to its unique-feeling world that behaves more like a 1.5 sequel than a mere extension of what players have come to expect. 💍
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VideoGamer - Tom Bardwell - 10 / 10
>Shadow of the Erdtree is a sensational companion to the base game that feels remarkably fresh and a subtly progressive evolution of the Elden Ring formula.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9.5 / 10
>Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is everything one could want from an Elden Ring DLC: a huge new area to explore, new bosses to fight, new weapons to try, and new lore to unravel. It is a genuine joy to play and easily one of my favorite DLCs of all time. Its quality is high enough to even justify the $40 price tag. If you like Elden Ring, then Shadow of the Erdtree will give you everything you could want. If you're a newcomer, it's probably best to play through the game first before taking on the DLC. After all, Mohg, Lord of Blood is only the beginning.
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XGN.nl - Ralph Beentjes - Dutch - 9.5 / 10
>Beware a big bump in difficulty, but Shadow of the Erdtree is a must-play for Elden Ring-fans. It improves on the base game in every way. The new Lands of Shadow are beautiful and a joy to explore, there are a lot of exciting new weapons and spells to find, and the new boss fights are absolutely epic.
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Capes has released, XCOM-like TBS with unique superhero characters - Reviews: 77 average, 75% recommended
Capes is rated 'Strong' after being reviewed by 16 critics, with an overall average score of 77. It's ranked in the top 29% of games and recommended by 75% of critics.
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Capes
Platforms:
- PC (May 30, 2024)
Trailer:
Developer: Spitfire Interactive
Publisher: Daedalic Entertainment
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 77 average - 75% recommended - 16 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
CGMagazine - Jordan Biordi - 7 / 10
>Capes is a good enough game, but lacks the necessary distinction to go up, up and away.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 8 / 10
>If Capes' biggest crime is that it isn't the most original game and that its fights require more thought than some might like, then I'd call Spitfire Interactive's debut a hearty success. Within its deep tactics gameplay is plenty of exciting and creative party DNA to tool around with. It even has a surprisingly refreshing tone and take on the superhero genre that is the most authentic I've seen in a while. So why not go save the world? I promise a super duper good time awaits.
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GAMES.CH - Steffen Haubner - German - 82%
>Sending your own superhero into the race is a brave move and, at least in terms of play, it really works here. There's plenty of scope to come up with your own solutions, and figuring out the best strategy makes the hours fly by. The fact that the ambitious story is not supported by a corresponding character design is regrettable, but in view of the undeniable gameplay qualities it is easy to get over.
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God is a Geek - Chris White - 7.5 / 10
>Capes is a solid turn-based strategy title that has some great ideas in the fight, and more often than not keeps things exciting.
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Hardcore Gamer - Thomas Kent - 4 / 5
>With its vibrant visuals, intricate gameplay mechanics and a narrative that both entertains and provokes thought, Capes sets itself up as a memorable addition to the superhero genre. While there are minor audio-visual sync issues and balance quirks in the combat system, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive. This game promises hours of engaging gameplay and delivers a powerful commentary on control and resistance in a dystopian future.
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IGN - Dan Stapleton - 8 / 10
>Capes is a clever and challenging tactics game with a clear love of the superhero comics that inspired it. And no one actually wears a cape.
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Merlin'in Kazanı - Murat Oktay - Turkish - 80 / 100
>Capes is a very enjoyable turn-based strategy game. Even those who don't like the genre like me can get tied to their heads for a long time. With the many options it offers, you have the chance to finish each mission with a different method and hero. If we do not consider the minor camera errors, Capes is a production that should be considered by those who love the genre.
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Merlin'in Kazanı - Murat Oktay - Turkish - 79 / 100
>Overall, the only thing I see missing is the lack of multiplayer support.
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Nintendo Life - Trent Cannon - 8 / 10
>Despite some visual shortfalls, Capes is a very solid turn-based strategy game that takes the best bits of XCOM 2 and gives it the superhero treatment. The tactical gameplay will have you thinking of the best way to position your growing roster of heroes on each turn to help you save King City from the nefarious Company. Even a predictable plot doesn't undermine how well-balanced and fun Capes is to play. Strategy and comic book fans will find plenty to enjoy here.
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PC Gamer - Robin Valentine - 80 / 100
>An awkward story doesn't hold Capes back from being one of the best turn-based strategy games of recent years.
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PCGamesN - Andrew McMahon - 6 / 10
>Capes mostly overcomes its cliches, lack of customization, and limited scope thanks to its strategic gameplay that will test the mettle of even the most hardened of turn-based tactics veterans.
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Screen Rant - Brad Lang - 3.5 / 5
>Capes is an excellent foundation for what could be a fantastic tactics franchise. Thanks to its excellent mechanics, squad-based dynamics, and progression, Spitfire Interactive's debut game will no doubt find plenty of love from those who appreciate small-scale strategy games that emphasize positioning and clever teamwork - it's just a pity that its writing, voice-acting, and animation vary so dramatically in quality that it's difficult to really appreciate its story.
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The Games Machine - Gabriele Barducci - Italian - 8.3 / 10
>Capes is the perfect game for those looking for a level of challenge similar to that of any XCOM. Fun, complex and colourful, at times the game becomes very difficult, requiring more and more attention from the player, but if taken calmly, Capes can offer many emotions and hours of fun.
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The Outerhaven Productions - Getselious - 4 / 5
>Capes is a solid take on tactic-based gameplay in the world of superheroes. It can be a tad short but it's a great time throughout!
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TheSixthAxis - Gareth Chadwick - 8 / 10
>Capes is a valiant effort at a relatively unique idea, one that I personally have wanted since I heard Midnight Sons would have a card-based attack system. It isn't perfect, it could do with a little more polish, and it's occasionally a bit frustrating, but it's deep, challenging and the story is enjoyable enough if you like comic books' campy style. Considering this is Spitfire Interactive's debut game, it has absolutely convinced me to keep an eye on their future projects.
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Wolf's Gaming Blog - Baden Ronie - 3.5 / 5
>While Capes might be less Avengers and more West Coast Avengers in terms of its presentation and budget, underneath those plastic faces lies a really fun turn-based tactics game. The story may not reach the highs of comic book greatness but it’s still a decent time. It’s the gameplay where Capes shines though. Sometimes it can be a bit too heavy-handed with the enemy count, but when you’re in the middle of the fray punching bad guys off of ledges, powering up Ultimates and combining abilities, it’s a damn good time.
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Senua's Saga: Hellblade II - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
Platforms:
- Xbox Series X/S (May 21, 2024)
- PC (May 21, 2024)
Trailers:
- Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II – Official Trailer | The Game Awards 2023
- Senua's Saga: Hellblade II - The Senua Trailer | Xbox Games Showcase 2023
Developer: Ninja Theory
Publisher: Xbox Game Studios
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 83 average - 82% recommended - 73 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
AltChar - Asmir Kovacevic - 95 / 100
>Few games in recent times have been able to do what Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 has done: make me feel so engaged and immersed that I wish the feeling would never stop. It is a game that will keep you in constant awe throughout the playtime with its fantastic and mysterious story, incredible graphic and sound presentation and realistic and brutal combat that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
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Arabhardware - Ahmed Yousry - Arabic - 8 / 10
>Despite offering the best visual experience and a legendary story, the gameplay systems of Senua's Saga: Hellblade II hinder the final result. But it's still a worthy Viking tale that you'll enjoy!
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But Why Tho? - Mick Abrahamson - 7.5 / 10
>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II won’t be for everyone. But if you are looking for a brutal continuation of a fantastic story that feels like you’re actually playing a movie, you’ll have a great time here.
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CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 7 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 starts incredibly strong in the first half, but after certain revelations, the story speeds up to a point where the conclusion feels rushed and half-baked.
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COGconnected - Mark Steighner - 95 / 100
>It has been a very long time since I played a game as assured, polished, and emotionally affecting as Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 10 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is well worth the wait and is a serious game of the year contender. Senua's follow-up journey is the best exploration of mental health that we've seen in games to date, using incredibly striking visual imagery, metaphors and immersive soundscapes to have you feel right there next to her. In what has to be the most photo-realistic game of all time, you're guaranteed to be constantly taken by the hero's adventure as you take in the beautiful and often haunting Viking Iceland. Through mud and dirt, blood and bones, Senua and Ninja Theory in turn bare all to you, the player. A masterpiece, benchmark and magnum opus, Hellblade II is crucial storytelling you won't soon forget.
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Console Creatures - Patrick Tremblay - Recommended
>With Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, Ninja Theory shows that video games can be more than simple entertainment: they can be profound artistic and emotional explorations, capable of touching and transforming those who play them. This is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Iceland's darkness, where every step of Senua is a step towards self-discovery.
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Dexerto - Carver Fisher - 3 / 5
>If you’re looking for a cool and fairly unique experience and you’ve got Game Pass, then Hellblade 2 could be worth your time. Its visual splendor and highlight moments are worth experiencing. But, if you haven’t played the original Hellblade yet? Do yourself a favor and go play that instead. In all ways except visual, it’s a better game.
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Digital Trends - Tomas Franzese - 4 / 5
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 is a visual stunner for Xbox even if its gameplay isn't too creative.
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Eurogamer - Johnny Chiodini - 5 / 5
>Hellblade 2 continues Senua's story with grace, confidence, surprising brutality and thundering conviction.
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Game Informer - Marcus Stewart - 9 / 10
>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II’s conclusion ends on another strong note, and despite my initial reservations about continuing Senua’s story, I walked away happy to see her conquer new monsters, both literal and metaphorical.
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Game Rant - Anthony Taormina - 4 / 5
>There is simply nothing else like Hellblade 2 on the market and that alone kept me enthralled the whole way through. Its pared-down elements might not be mechanically complex, but they give the story a momentum that makes it hard to put down. Ninja Theory tackles themes that are challenging and not often seen in games, with a backdrop that vacillates between the epic and the intimate. It's approach doesn't have widespread appeal, but Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is as close to an interactive movie as we’ve seen yet.
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GameSpot - Jess Cogswell - 6 / 10
>Hellblade 2 is perhaps the most visually remarkable Xbox title to date, but is ultimately undermined by its emphasis on fidelity over story and gameplay.
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Gamerheadquarters - Jason Stettner - 10 / 10
>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is an incredible technical achievement and the best looking game I’ve ever seen. To match that the story is well crafted, the combat feels visceral and the pacing is great.
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Gamersky - 心灵奇兵 - Chinese - 8.2 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II remains a maverick in the gaming world. While its gameplay has not evolved from the first game, it has expanded on the aspects that set it apart from mainstream games: more realistic graphics, more moving performances, and an even more immersive depiction of psychosis that resonates deeply with players. > >This interactive film style game is very niche and I don't think everyone will appreciate it. However, there must be creators who make such games, and these games must exist. They allow those who live in a different reality every day to be seen and understood by more people.
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GamingTrend - Cassie Peterson - 95 / 100
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a stunning and immersive storytelling experience that really puts the player into the mind of its titular character. It's even more narratively-focused than the first game (not to its detriment), with a bigger emphasis on how Senua sees and interacts with the world around her. The whole experience from start to finish has been beyond memorable.
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God is a Geek - Chris White - 7.5 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a good sequel with some excellent acting and gorgeous visuals, but the pacing struggles quite a bit.
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IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 8 / 10
>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is another Viking-worthy feast for the senses that meets the high bar set by its predecessor, even if it never really manages to clear it.
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IGN Italy - Francesco Destri - Italian - 7 / 10
>While graphically Senua's Saga: Hellblade II offers memorable glimpses and moments, anything beyond the visual impact and the dark and fierce atmosphere is disappointing, especially for a sequel announced five years ago on which Microsoft bet big.
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IGN Spain - Rafa Del Río - Spanish - 9 / 10
>Senua's saga: Hellblade II breaks the video game frontier by offering an experience unlike anything we've experienced before, including Senua's Sacrifice. Its bravery in making decisions that are initially unpopular leaves us with a terribly personal and unique work in which Ninja Theory once again shows its veteranship by profiling female and male characters whose strength lies in their fragility and in all the flaws, fears and weaknesses that make us human.
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Kakuchopurei - Jonathan Leo - 80 / 100
>While the story & gameplay's broad strokes might be familiar, Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2's execution, perspective, and overall production values are just stellar and highlights Ninja Theory's strengths in delivering what it does best: story-heavy cinematic gaming. The characters are fleshed out and well-written, with proper focus on your main character and her turmoils that carry over from the first game, the fighting feels weighty and challenging without being completely frustrating, and the HUD-less approach to presentation is welcome.
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Kotaku - Claire Jackson - Unscored
>A spellbinding meditation on anguish and compassion, Hellblade II delivers one of the most gripping interactive and sensory experiences of 2024
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La Orden del Pixel - Sebastian Cigarreta - Spanish - Yes
>With Hellblade 2, Ninja Theory proves that it knows how to tell a complex and compelling story, elevating the original experience in every way and setting the bar higher than ever. A true new generation narrative adventure in which all its components serve a common purpose. From the presentation, to the absence of tutorials, to each of the battles, they all play an essential role in the construction of an intense plot, leaving us ready for the final outcome.
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 5 / 10
>A joyless slog of barely interactive entertainment and a muddled portrayal of mental illness… that just so happens to have the best graphics ever on a video game console.
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MondoXbox - Giuseppe Genga - Italian - 9.5 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a true masterpiece: a deep and highly immersive narrative experience that manages to make us feel all the protagonist's torment within an impressively realistic world. Ninja Theory reveals itself to be one of the most valuable studios in the Xbox stable here, reaching levels of absolute excellence in graphics, audio, narration, and acting. A must-play.
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Nexus Hub - Sam Aberdeen - 8 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is the best-looking game we've ever played - a true visual powerhouse backed by an emotionally charged story and gripping dark fantasy setting, if you can look past some of its shortcomings.
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One More Game - Chris Garcia - 9 / 10
>Hellblade 2 is a triumph in masterful storytelling and impeccable audio design for Ninja Theory. It is an emotionally powerful experience that depicts a sensitive subject that is hardly talked about in the medium. > >To achieve this, the game stripped out several features and systems like combat and exploration in favor of a deeper narrative affair. This is not for everyone, but it is something I would encourage everyone to try at least try out.
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PC Gamer - Robin Valentine - 58 / 100
>Despite its greater scale and visual splendour, this sequel fails to escape the shadow of its predecessor with a muddled tale that Senua herself feels out of place in.
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PCGamesN - Cheri Faulkner - 9 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 is an impeccable story of coming to terms with trauma and making difficult decisions, punctuated by moments of outstanding beauty and strength.
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Polygon - Yussef Cole - Unscored
>Where the first game felt like a journey of self-discovery, both for Senua and for the player, Hellblade 2 feels more invested in creating the myth of Senua: Senua as legendary giant slayer, as mystical seer touched by the underworld.
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Press Start - Brodie Gibbons - 9 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is yet another arresting, artful chapter in an adventure now two games long. Though it might approach iteration with a very safe hand, only going so far as to correct the original's shortcomings, Ninja Theory's clear strengths in story craft, audiovisual design, as well as their care for the dark subject matter manage to shine through brighter than ever before.
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Rectify Gaming - Tyler Nienburg - 10 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II emerges as a visual and storytelling masterpiece, and is unquestionably the best-looking game I've witnessed on Xbox Series X since its launch.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Rick Lane - Unscored
>A more uncompromising version of the first game, Hellblade 2 offers a well told story and immaculate presentation. But it's also even simpler, to the point where it treats interaction like an inconvenience.
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Saudi Gamer - Arabic - 10 / 10
>An exceptionally well realized portrayal of Senua's struggle both real and praying on her fears, with brutal and satisfying combat and puzzles that require you to appreciate the world. It successfully continues what the first game started and improves upon almost every aspect.
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Stevivor - Jay Ball - 9.5 / 10
>Senua’s Saga Hellblade 2 is a video game only on its surface. Scratch that away and you’ll see that it’s a deep, thought-provoking, interactive experience proving games are an art form that demands skill and talent. Ninja Theory should be very proud.
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TechRaptor - Robert Scarpinito - 7.5 / 10
>Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II features intense audio, beautiful graphics, and wonderful camera work, creating a powerful presentation that’s worth experiencing. However, the narrative doesn’t quite stick the landing.
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The Beta Network - Anthony Culinas - 5 / 10
>Hellblade II is an unequivocally bland game, with repetitive combat and puzzles that lack any overarching sense of excitement.
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>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
TheSixthAxis - Dominic Leighton - Unscored
>Just like its forbear, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is an oppressive, powerful and haunting example of the power of video games, and one that sets its own parameters for what a digital experience can be. It is a game that must be experienced, not least because, there’s nothing else quite like it.
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Too Much Gaming - Carlos Hernandez - 5 / 5
>Hellblade 2 feels like a living, breathing shapeshifter, manipulating its surroundings around the player with precision and consistency, making it one of the most visually stunning video games of this generation. This is an amazing title that carefully balances its artistic and gaming ambitions, a masterpiece that I encourage any gamer to experience.
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TrueAchievements - Sean Carey - 9 / 10
>Ninja Theory has created an outstanding sequel with Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2. An unforgettable narrative adventure that is brought to life through impeccable sound design, fantastic visuals, and a story that will stick with you long after the final credits roll. Hellblade 2 is one of the best games Xbox has to offer.
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TrueGaming - عمر العمودي - Arabic - 8 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a technical achievement for the gaming industry, the visuals are impressive and realistic in a way we haven't seen before and the audio design is very impressive. >The game itself though, we think it could've offered more as puzzles are repetitive and combat is quite limited. However, the storytelling is strong in this chapter of Senua's journey, though it feels heavy and depressing.
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WellPlayed - James Wood - 6 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is an achievement in visual fidelity but fails to define itself amid clumsy retreads and unengaging new ideas.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 7 / 10
>Senua's Saga: Hellblade II is a beautiful but ultimately hollow game. The fantastic presentation props up a story that is less personal and engaging than in the first game, and the gameplay feels like an afterthought. It was great to see Senua again and to see her outside of the grief-misery she was enveloped in during the first game, but beyond that, there's not much to Hellblade II. It's a short and less memorable experience that shows off Ninja Theory's visual craft to its fullest - but it achieves little else.
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XboxEra - Jon Clarke - 10 / 10
>Despite the backing of a company as large and as well-funded as Microsoft, Ninja Theory have, in my opinion, nurtured their independent spirit and kept it well and truly alive in every facet of Senua's Saga: Hellblade II. It's brutal. It's breath-taking. It's brilliant. If this is “Independent AAA”? > >Sign me up for more.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes
Platforms:
- Xbox Series X/S (Apr 23, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Apr 23, 2024)
- Nintendo Switch (Apr 23, 2024)
- PC (Apr 23, 2024)
- Xbox One (Apr 23, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Apr 23, 2024)
Trailers:
- Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes Pre-launch Trailer (ESRB)
- Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes Pre-Order Trailer (ESRB)
Developer: Rabbit & Bear Studios
Publisher: 505 Games
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 76 average - 58% recommended - 34 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 8 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a worthy spiritual successor to Suikoden. Outside of some combat tweaks there is a lot to love here.
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COGconnected - James Paley - 75 / 100
>As far as homages go, Hundred Heroes is an exceptional one. That old-school sensibility is captured perfectly, almost to its detriment. The sprite art is exceptional, the voice work is fantastic, and the character designs are excellent. I wish the pacing was more modern, though. And I’d be fine with an updated approach to inventory management. But all that is what makes this such a faithful successor to the Suikoden series. Well, that and the establishment of your own kingdom full of heroes. If you’re looking for the next Suikoden game, this is it! Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a worthy ascendant to the Suikoden throne.
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Cerealkillerz - German - 8.3 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes offers excellent content, especially for fans of JRPGs from the 90s, looks great and also keeps you engaged in the long term with the many characters that can be found. Only the story sometimes suffers from pacing issues and the current objective is not always completely clear. But that doesn't stop the title from being a great new start for an almost forgotten series.
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Checkpoint Gaming - David McNamara - 7 / 10
>Despite boldly declaring "the JRPG is back" and then doing absolutely nothing new with the genre, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a decent, traditional JRPG that will tickle anyone who adored the classic PlayStation titles of the late nineties. Its modern affordances in visual design and voice acting bring this nostalgic adventure into the present day, but it is let down by sluggish, repetitive combat and some missed opportunities when it comes to utilising its massive roster of characters. Fans of Suikoden will likely already have this pre-ordered - for everyone else, check this out if you're looking for a nostalgic romp and don't mind a few speed bumps along the way.
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Digital Trends - George Yang - 3 / 5
>As a Suikoden successor, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is faithful to a fault.
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GAMES.CH - Benjamin Braun - German - 75%
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes mainly delivers what the developers promised. It's a mostly very classical JRPG experience with beautiful graphics and great music. But while fans of the 90's JRPGs might get anything they love about these classics here, they also get nearly everything, that they might hate about them.
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GameBlast - Victor Vitório - Portuguese - 7.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes was clearly made with dedication to deliver an epic experience about assembling a resistance army in the midst of an inglorious war. The narrative cannot give importance to such a vast cast, but, overall, it does a good job with what it has at hand, telling an engaging, well-written and well-voiced story. Translation does not follow the same level and several systems seem to be too close to the old productions on which they are based, missing the chance to modernize to allow for more efficient management. The end result is a good JRPG that suffers from limitations, which can still be resolved with changes here and there to systems, options and menus, bringing with it the potential to really shine in its environment.
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GameGrin - Alana Dunitz - 9 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is for fans of turn-based RPGs. It's challenging, has great heroes, and a deep story. It will pull you in!
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GameLuster - Nirav Gandhi - 9 / 10
>I am shocked to my core; as a great lover of RPGs, this is one of the best ever. It's a must play for any genre fan out there.
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Gamer Guides - Ben Chard - 80 / 100
>Eiyuden Chronicle is a fantastic first entry from Rabbit & Bear Studios in an attempt to bring back Suikoden. A by-the-numbers plot holds it back from truly achieving greatness, but a strong cast and exciting base building makes this a must-have for all fans of classic JRPGs.
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Gamers Heroes - Johnny Hurricane - 85 / 100
>Eiyuden Chonricle: Hundred Heroes is exactly what Suikoden fans have been asking for. Fans of old-school JRPGs or games about recurring characters shouldn’t hesitate to check it out.
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>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is sure to satisfy long-awaited fans of the series, but whether it will win over casual gamers is another story. It boasts a quality script and a large, unique ensemble cast, but its dated design and lack of side-quest guidance will detract significantly from your experience.
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God is a Geek - Mick Fraser - 9.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a truly memorable experience that absolutely will stick with you when it's over.
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Hobby Consolas - David Rodriguez - Spanish - 82 / 100
>Eiyuden Chronicle Hundred Heroes is a great journey back to the golden age of the JRPG and a tribute to all the good things Suikoden gave us. With nostalgia as its flag, this game manages to overcome its lack of innovation to deliver a great adventure that will take you back to simpler times.
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IGN - Jess Reyes - 7 / 10
>One you get past its slow start, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes mostly succeeds in weaving the stories of multiple countries and characters together into a sprawling epic.
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IGN Korea - Jieun Koo - Korean - 10 / 10
>Another great title with immersive classic JRPG roots. Players will be busy with their hearts being engulfed with a tsunami of emotions when the game’s protagonists with all differences in races, culture and relationships eventually come together as one to share an ultimate goal. Players must build cities and defend against waves of invasions which brings enough motivation to show that even heroes still need everyone’s support to grow and be strong. Truly motivating once the players understand that maintaining positive relationships with other adventurers is key to advance forward in their journey. The 2.5D-esque graphics paired with dynamic action camera work is surely eye-candy and the sound design that focuses on epic 1-on-1 duels will be music to every gamers’ ears.
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INVEN - Kwangseok Park - Korean - 8.5 / 10
>A love letter to classic JRPG fans' would be the perfect description for this game. It's filled with various elements that evoke nostalgia for JRPG enthusiasts. However, despite its efforts to recreate the nostalgia of the past, maybe the absence of convenience feaures was too much.
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Infinite Start - Mark Fajardo - 8.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a heartfelt homage to the Suikoden games, seamlessly blending nostalgia with fresh experiences. While it effectively captures the essence of Suikoden, offering familiar storytelling and visuals that resonate deeply with fans, the presence of bugs and occasional performance issues may detract from the overall enjoyment. Nevertheless, these minor setbacks do not overshadow the game's true strength—its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while delivering a new and captivating adventure. With its rich narrative and familiar gameplay elements, Eiyuden Chronicle feels like a true Suikoden game with a new title, making it a must-play for fans of the beloved series.
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Kakuchopurei - Jonathan Leo - 90 / 100
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes perfectly captures the zeitgeist period of Japanese role-playing games of the late 90s, faults and all. [...] Players who yearn for the days of an epic fantasy story with solid turn-based combat & dungeon puzzle shenanigans most immersive will find a lot to love in this heartfelt tribute from the late Yoshitaka Murayama and his team Rabbit & Bear Studios.
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LadiesGamers.com - Margaret David - Loved
>It won’t take long to fall in love with Nowa and his initial teammates on the Watch, and the bittersweet story beats come achingly fast in the first act of the game. Those who played the prologue game, Eiyuden Chronicles Rising, won’t have to wait long to meet some familiar faces and learn the answers to some of the questions left hanging there. From there, the journey is a comfortably familiar but emotional one, where power-hungry villains separate friends and family under the banner of a war that threatens to grow out of control. > >It’s a beefy game, too, with backers who already got their copy claiming that they’re clocking 60 hours on a fast-paced playthrough, and I’m suggesting that around 80 is going to be a fair hour count for most players. Chock full of stuff to do, things to explore, and characters to meet and collect; for some of us, this is the game we wanted when we were teens and still enjoying our last free summers. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a fantastic JRPG, wearing its old-school quirks like a badge of pride, with even its deliberate annoyances feeling like a wool flannel shirt. I can safely say it’s a terrific game and one its backers will welcome home with delight.
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Niche Gamer - Fingal Belmont - 9 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes perfectly captures everything it set out to achieve. While the “love letter to JRPGs” phrase gets thrown around a lot these days, and sometimes makes me cringe despite my adoration for the genre, I have to hand it to Rabbit & Bear Studios. They made a promise and delivered with in amazing ways I never thought possible – Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a love letter to classic JRPGs.
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Nintendo Blast - Ivanir Ignacchitti - Portuguese - 6.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is an RPG that actively strives to go against the market's quality of life efforts in pursuit of an old-school ideal. However, the result is a game that closes in on itself and caters only to the most die-hard fans of the genre. It's a shame, because even simple adjustments, like a mission menu and occasional changes to the menu, would be enough to maintain the challenge without the part that is purely inconvenient.
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Nintendo Life - Mitch Vogel - 6 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is the epitome of a flawed gem-the kind of game that does a lot of things right and we're sure will command a dedicated legion of fans, but has legitimate problems that are tough to overlook. The expansive narrative, gorgeous spritework, and addictive combat all help make it an easy recommendation to any classic JRPG fan, but bear in mind that it can feel dated in its design philosophy and that the Switch version has a lot of performance problems, at least at launch. If you can get past those issues, this is an enjoyable and immersive RPG that mostly achieves what it set out to do.
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NintendoWorldReport - Jordan Rudek - 5 / 10
>Were I not reviewing the game I would have put it aside after a few hours and never thought about it again. Eiyuden Chronicle comes after scores and scores of excellent and successful turn-based RPGs from which it could draw inspiration. Instead, it neglects so many of the lessons learned throughout the years in favor of outdated, tedious gameplay.
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Noisy Pixel - Azario Lopez - 7.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a beautiful JRPG from beginning to end. It captures the wonder of discovery and adventure in every scene, with an added dose of tension as you navigate the complexities of a nation at war. Still, much of the weight has been removed from the player to the point where it feels like the entire experience is on autopilot and you're simply participating when it wants you to, like in a boss battle or environmental puzzle. That said, if I look at this game through the lens of it being Murayama-san's adventure and not mine, I'm just happy that he allowed me to accompany him on this path. While it's a brilliant showcasing of retro meets modern, there are areas to improve, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
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One More Game - Vincent Ternida - 7 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes pays homage to the beloved Suikoden series, which left an indelible mark as one of the most memorable JRPGs during the PlayStation 1 era. The game’s expansive design and nostalgic elements evoke fond memories for fans. However, nostalgia can be selective, often glossing over past flaws. > >The revival of dated mechanics, including random encounters, fixed savepoints, and lengthy world map treks, hampers the overall pacing. Additionally, new features like gimmicks, war games, and forgettable characters miss the mark. The resulting package falls short of the (unreasonable) highs set by its inspirational source material.
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PSX Brasil - Thiago de Alencar Moura - Portuguese - 85 / 100
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a beautiful love letter to RPGs. It has an excellent story and characters, a challenging and entertaining combat system, as well as a vast amount of content to explore, all wrapped up in a package with great graphics and soundtrack. It's a must-have title for fans of the genre.
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Push Square - Khayl Adam - 8 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is the true spiritual successor to the Suikoden series, capturing what made those games magical and expanding on the premise a hundred-fold. It tells a well-written and verbose tale of courage and endurance, but adherence to some fairly brutal old-school design precepts means it won't appeal to everyone.
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RPG Fan - Zach Wilkerson - 80%
>Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes might be a poor imitation of the games that came before, but it still has plenty to recommend it.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A turn-based JRPG that accommodates those familiar with Suikoden or those who don't know what a Suikoden is. Embrace the old-school quirks and there's a wonderful journey to be had here.
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Shacknews - Lucas White - 7 / 10
>Maybe Hundred Heroes doesn't have me ready to run outside screaming about miracles, but I'm plenty satisfied and ready to go back and fill in some old, classic JRPG blind spots. Well, after I replay Tierkreis.
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Spaziogames - Gianluca Arena - Italian - 7 / 10
>Old players who have grown up with the first two episodes of the Suikoden franchise and backers of the Kickstarter campaign will be the most pleased by Eiyuden Chronicles Hundred Heroes, and old school JRPG through and through. >Divisive game design choices aside, what we have here is a solid effort, but also one that looks too much to the past and much less to the future of the genre.
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TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 5.5 / 10
>Eiyuden Chronicles: Hundred Heroes hits the right notes on paper but in practice, the story is poorly executed, battles are bland, recruitable characters are beyond forgettable, and the game itself is sluggish. The style and audio design do a good job, but not enough to save the overall experience.
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The Beta Network - Anthony Culinas - 6 / 10
>Being a homage to the classic Suikoden series, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes contains a PS1-like nostalgic appeal, a decent story and varied dungeon designs throughout. However, it’s held back by tedious recruitment processes, lacklustre battle systems and pacing issues that drag down the potential level of enjoyment.
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Wccftech - Francesco De Meo - 8.5 / 10
>While its premise, story beats and main characters echo Suikoden II a little bit too much, Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes manages to stand on its own with a compelling tale, excellent characterization, classic JRPG gameplay and great presentation, which make it easy to look past some of its shortcomings, such as balancing and minor gameplay issues. The world of Allraan may never get into the spotlight again due to the unfortunate departure of its creator, but it is undeniable that it couldn't have been introduced to JRPG fans in a better way.
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Dragon's Dogma 2: Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Dragon's Dogma 2
Platforms:
- PC (Mar 22, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Mar 22, 2024)
- Xbox Series X/S (Mar 22, 2024)
Trailers:
- Dragon's Dogma 2 - Main Trailer
- [TEASER] Dragon's Dogma 2 Showcase 2023
- Dragon's Dogma 2 - 1st Trailer
Developer: CAPCOM Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Capcom U.S.A., Inc.
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 89 average - 95% recommended - 59 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
ACG - Jeremy Penter - Buy
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
BaziCenter - Javad Mohseni - Persian - 9.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 not only meets but exceeds expectations with its captivating storyline, engaging players until the very end. The deep gameplay mechanics and diverse choices ensure that every moment feels fresh and exciting, eliminating any sense of repetitiveness. With its eye-catching artistic graphics and epic soundtrack, the game delivers a truly unique and immersive experience. As a high-quality RPG, it promises to provide countless hours of entertainment for players seeking an unforgettable adventure.
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Boomstick Gaming - Boomstick Alex - 5 / 5
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
CGMagazine - Philip Watson - 8.5 / 10
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 improves upon the original in exceptional ways and is a must-play RPG for fans of the genre.
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COGconnected - Mark Steighner - 88 / 100
>From character creation on, Dragon’s Dogma 2 asks to be approached with patience, understanding, and above all, ownership of choices. You get one save at a time.
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Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Recommended
>I can see why the original Dragon's Dogma was such a cult hit. Over a decade later, though, with the technology finally capable of providing the horsepower to deliver Itsuno's vision, stepping into the world of Dragon's Dogma 2 leaves a lasting impression far more positive than I expected.
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Cultured Vultures - Ashley Bates - 8.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a kitchen sink sequel to the original sleeper hit from 2012, building on what worked about the first game to create an RPG experience that's still unlike any other.
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Destructoid - Steven Mills - Unscored
>Even though I have plenty of Dragon’s Dogma 2 to experience, I’m already incredibly immersed in the journey. If you’ve played the original, you know exactly what you’re getting here. If you haven’t—why haven’t you?!—you can expect a massive living open-world RPG with rewarding combat and an intriguing storyline. It’s not a seamless experience, but in my 40 hours of play it’s certainly been a worthwhile one.
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Dexerto - Sayem Ahmed - 5 / 5
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 boldly stands as a giant of the open-world genre that dares to defy existing conventions and expectations. It’s a courageous effort that is as rewarding as it is deep. 80 hours in, I still feel as though I have barely scratched the surface of what’s on offer. Its abrasive player experience demands you abide by its rules of engagement. Comply, and you will be rewarded with one of the most engaging fantasy RPGs ever created. Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a masterpiece. It is an unmissable title that not only asks for your respect, but demands it.
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Digital Spy - Joe Draper - 4 / 5
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is just so damn interesting. It walks a tightrope of intrigue that balances quirky systems, fun combat and obscure secrets with frustrating circumstances, weird world-building and curious design choices, and somehow manages to make it across, and if you embrace all it has to offer, you might too.
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Eurogamer - Lewis Parker - 5 / 5
>A huge improvement over the original, and a captivating journey from beginning to end.
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Fextralife - Fexelea - 8.8 / 10
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a fantastic adventure of exploration, discovery and learning that truly engages the player with a rewarding and nuanced combat system that carries well outside of combat. Brought down by small but impactful design choices and unfortunate poor performance on all platforms, this is the game of the year that should have been, but will likely never be…
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GAMES.CH - Sönke Siemens - German - 84%
>Quote not yet available
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GGRecon - Harry Boulton - 4.5 / 5
>Despite my reservations about the late game, Dragon's Dogma 2 remains an exceptional experience on almost all fronts and an adventure that you unequivocally won't want to miss.
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>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a worthy successor to the phenomenal Dark Arisen. Capcom managed to improve the game on every front while preserving the spirit of a classic fantasy RPG adventure set in a living open world.
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GameSpot - Richard Wakeling - 9 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is an excellent sequel that builds upon the first game's core concepts to create a thrilling open-world adventure.
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>Quote not yet available
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Gamefa - Mostafa Zahedi - Persian - 8.2 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is one of the most enjoyable RPG games in recent years. Combat is amazing, variety and depth of Vocations is impressive and boss battles are breathtaking. That being said, it suffers from some technical and structural issues. Story is shallow, side quests are somewhat underwhelming and frame rate drop is frequent. Nevertheless, Dragon's Dogma 2 is a must play for die hard fans of classic RPGs.
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Gamepressure - Zbigniew Woźnicki - 7.5 / 10
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 will belong to a fairly specific audience. The game requires a significant amount of time to truly enjoy it. You can't simply play it for a moment because you'll feel like you haven't made any progress. At the same time, it's great that such a title appeared – in times when AAA titles are bland and safe a different approach is needed. We needed a game to demonstrate that things can be done differently.
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Gamer Guides - Chris Moyse - 94 / 100
>With Dragon’s Dogma 2, Capcom continues to solidify its reputation as one of the industry’s premier developers. The sequel delivers an incredible, continent-spanning odyssey filled with monsters to battle and mysteries to explore - rewarding player discovery and backing up its captivating sense of adventure with refined, enjoyable combat. Dragon’s Dogma 2 is one of the best fantasy RPGs of the modern age and will no doubt prove a strong contender for game of the year.
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Gamers Heroes - Blaine Smith - 95 / 100
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 feels like the first proper RPG I’ve played in years. Its world is captivating, filled with stories both told and waiting to be found. This is a must-play for RPG fans who’ve grown tired of the hand-holding nature of modern games and just want to get lost somewhere magical and quite frankly, brutal as hell.
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Gaming Nexus - Elliot Hilderbrand - 9 / 10
>If action role-playing games are something you are into, then Dragon's Dogma 2 is your next big game. It's that simple. You may have been thrown off by talk of the lack of fast travel. But the game's director Hideaki Itsuno, is right: a good game doesn't need it. Dragon's Dogma 2's world is covered with experiences to have. It could be a hidden cave, a simple treasure chest, or even a giant griffin that just wants to create chaos for you and your party of pawns. Combat is easy to understand, and different enough from vocation to vocation that when I get bored with one class, I can easily switch to try something different. It's not about the destination, but rather the journey. As silly as it sounds, Dragon's Dogma 2 is all about the friends we made along the way.
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GamingBolt - Shubhankar Parijat - 10 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a landmark release for open world action RPGs. From its thoroughly immersive world and its stellar combat to the incredible emergent gameplay its bevy of systems enable, Capcom's long-anticipated sequel delivers spectacularly in more ways than one. By definition, it's going to turn some people off with its many eccentricities, but it's those eccentricities exactly that make it such an utterly unique and unforgettable experience.
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GamingTrend - Jack Zustiak - 95 / 100
>Dragon's Dogma II is a masterfully refined take on the original game. It's easy to get lost in its massive world for hours on end and truly immerse yourself into the role of the Arisen. There are a ton of technical problems and oddities throughout the game, but somehow those didn't stop us from having a blast. In an age where the limitations of video games are a known quantity, Dragon's Dogma II transcends them to become a game that truly feels real.
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Glitched Africa - Marco Cocomello - 9 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a vast RPG filled with a rich world to explore and a dense combat system to master. It is marred down by some dated mechanics and performance issues which at least can be improved down the line.
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Hey Poor Player - Shane Boyle - 4.5 / 5
>Dragon’s Dogma II is an instant classic. Capcom hasn’t reinvented the wheel here, opting instead to deliver the same blend of exploration and monster slaying that they established in 2012 while turning it into a full-on adventure simulator via a sandbox that is capable of generating jaw-dropping moments at every turn. It may not be polished to the degree that I’d like, but I find it impossible to be angry at Capcom when what they’ve delivered carries a level of ambition and seamlessness that needs to be seen to be believed. In a year stacked to the rafters with game-of-the-year-worthy RPGs already, Dragon’s Dogma II is another fantastic addition to what is already becoming a complicated discussion and should not be overlooked.
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IGN - Jarrett Green - 8 / 10
>More of a redo than a sequel, Dragon's Dogma 2 is a strange and wonderful action-RPG that bolsters the original’s strengths without addressing its weaknesses.
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IGN Italy - Alessandra Borgonovo - Italian - 8.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma II is both a blessing and a curse for fans of the genre and the series itself. A game that, even more, reflects Hideaki Itsuno's desire to keep players from breathing space or advantages.
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Metro GameCentral - Nick Gillett - 7 / 10
>An entertaining open world action role-player, with an interesting approach to AI-controlled companions, but which proves disappointingly similar to the 2012 original.
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MonsterVine - Joe Bariso - 3 / 5
>In a lot of ways, there’s a great game buried under the surface of Dragon’s Dogma 2. All of the components should work together. I’ve never played a game I was so frustrated with, but equally wanted to keep playing. For someone out there, I can guarantee this will be their favorite game ever. I’m sure it checks a lot of boxes for a lot of people looking for something different. I was looking for something different too, but I just feel like there was too much in the way for me to truly enjoy it. I’m still going to give it more time, I’m willing to be wrong, but for now I can’t help but feel disappointed.
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Multiplayer First - James Lara - 9.5 / 10
>While I know it’s not the perfect game, and certainly not one for everyone, I do know that it’ll be a title that I’ll find myself returning to year after year until Dragon’s Dogma 3 is made. Let’s hope that’s not another 12 years, but if it is, at least we’ll have a sequel to keep us busy for the years to come. Dragon’s Dogma 2 is an instant classic, the ultimate RPG adventure that fans have been dreaming about, making that long wait well worth it.
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Nexus Hub - Sam Aberdeen - 9.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 makes bold creative decisions that pay off big time - highly ambitious, demanding and rewarding in equal measure, it's the kind of masterful action-RPG that rewrites the rule books.
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NoobFeed - Azfar Rayan - 100 / 100
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is simply an unending, beautiful, open-world fantasy RPG, possibly one of this generation's most dynamic and extensive open-world RPGs. It's jam-packed with side quests and dynamic events, and the game's many locations provide ample opportunity for exploration and discovery of the new lore. If you are looking for a high-adrenaline, gratifying action role-playing game with a concentration on the battle, Dragon's Dogma 2 is just what you are looking for.
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PC Gamer - Fraser Brown - 89 / 100
>A magnificent adventure with impressive fights and some very rough edges.
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>For better and for worse, Dragon's Dogma 2 is a faithful reimagining of Hideaki Itsuno's flawed yet ambitious action-RPG. Those who rise to the challenge of meeting it on its own terms are suitably rewarded, but a deluge of trash mobs, restrictive fast travel, and endemic hardware issues will be a dealbreaker for many.
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PSX Brasil - Portuguese - 90 / 100
>Quote not yet available
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PlayStation Universe - Garri Bagdasarov - 9.5 / 10
>A fantasy adventure for the ages. Dragon's Dogma 2 takes everything that made the first game good and expands on it in everyway. The combat is visceral and engaging l. With a massive world to explore you can loose yourself for days exploring and battling all your favorite fantasy monstrosities. Dragon's Dogma 2 is an incredible adventure no one should miss.
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Press Start - James Mitchell - 9 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma II embodies the essence of what the original should have been. With its expansive open world teeming with dangerous but delightful encounters, enjoyable combat, and versatile vocations, it's an enchanting experience from beginning to end.
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - Unscored
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is an absolute masterpiece in terms of offering a true sense of adventure.
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RPG Site - James Galizio - 10 / 10
>The first Dragon's Dogma was ahead of its time. With Dragon's Dogma 2, its vision is fully realized. The result is one of the best RPGs of the last decade.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A grand action RPG adventure where you'll make travel plans and have them disrupted by a vengeful griffin whose wing you'd whacked two hours earlier.
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SECTOR.sk - Branislav Kohút - Slovak - 8 / 10
>Arisen is back with a unique escort. The continuation of the interesting RPG once again relied on intelligent companions who stand by your side. And they are still great. However, some other aspects of the game could have been better.
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Shacknews - Donovan Erskine - 9 / 10
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 is an absolute feast of an RPG. It’s cliche to say, but it genuinely feels like there is something to discover at every corner.
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Spaziogames - Gianluca Arena - Italian - 8.3 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a rare beast, and one we would gladly save from extinction, thanks to its unparalleled sense of freedom and discovery and fast paced combat system. It's a courageous game too, with divisive game design that not every player will appreciate. But believe us when we say the travel is well worth it.
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TechRaptor - Erren Van Duine - 8.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 features a rich world filled with plenty of old-school RPG stylings that remain a fun adventure despite some technical difficulties.
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>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
TheSixthAxis - Jason Coles - 10 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a triumph of a game that wants you to just take your time and see everything you possibly can. You'll be constantly pulled from your path by a new cave, a random quest, a chest one of your Pawns has found, random fights, and it's all part of the experience. I adore this game, and while it has some aspects I think some will find too clunky, it's a masterpiece.
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TheXboxHub - Ryan Taylor - 5 / 5
>After multiple tens of hours playing, you may still find yourself unable to put Dragon’s Dogma 2 down – one more quest, one more fight, and then an hour or two has passed. If you liked the first game, or if you are looking for an action RPG with epic fights, then Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a must-have.
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Tom's Hardware Italia - Andrea Riviera - Italian - 8 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is an experience that entertained and engaged us, perhaps one of the most original and satisfying RPGs you will play this year. However, the differences from the first episode are really minimal and the reduced fluidity on consoles disappointed us a bit. However, it should be specified that this is primarily designed to bring in a large number of new players.
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Try Hard Guides - Erik Hodges - 9 / 10
>Though PC players may face some optimization issues, Dragon’s Dogma 2 impresses with stellar monster-slaying action, incredible immersion, and satisfying adventures with NPCs you can’t help but call your friends. You’re sure to get sucked into the world with an incredible character of your own making as you claim your throne and face off against the intimidating beasts of Dragon’s Dogma 2.
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Twisted Voxel - Salal Awan - 9.5 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is an impressive sequel to the cult classic game. It features an ambitious open-world and a more engaging storyline that combines nostalgia with innovation. Although the game has a few design quirks and occasional performance issues, especially on PC, it compensates with a rich narrative, an expansive world, and an engaging combat system. Players who are willing to dive deep into its universe will find it a rewarding experience. While it does not redefine the action RPG genre, it successfully captures the essence of adventure and exploration, making it appealing to both veteran and newcomer players.
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VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 5 / 5
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 is wickedly clever, tightly designed, self-aware in all the right ways, and refreshingly unconcerned with whatever the latest trends are.
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>Its peerless sense of exploration, meaty combat system, and stunning visuals will motivate you throughout the entire playthrough. Just don't expect to find a fantasy world simulator or, indeed, a narrative worth remembering.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9 / 10
>Dragon's Dogma II doesn't feel like anything else on the market. Despite fantasy action-RPG being one of the most common genres, Dragon's Dogma II manages to stand out from the crowd. The unusual atmosphere, excellent combat, and general sense of place and weight make it feel distinct in a world full of Soulslikes or Skyrim clones. It's a boatload of fun to play, and it manages to make what could be a tiring genre feel fresh and full of life. If you're looking to hunt some monsters and cast some spells, Dragon's Dogma II is easily one of the best titles on the market.
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Xbox Achievements - Dan Webb - 85%
>Dragon's Dogma 2 is a fine follow up to the cult classic original. With some ingenious gameplay and a captivating open-world, it's a stunning fantasy exploration simulator. If some of the main story missions had better structure, and the game didn’t feel so disjointed at times, this could easily be in the conversation to be crowned one of the best action-RPGs of this generation. It's still bloody good, despite that.
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XboxEra - Jesse Norris - 9 / 10
>Dragon’s Dogma 2 is a fantastic video game. It improves on every facet of the first title. An excellent main quest is paired with Capcom’s best English VO and some incredible emergent combat. It’s fully approachable if you’ve never given the first one a go, and any Action RPG fan owes it to themselves to learn just what the Dragon’s Dogma truly is.
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Unicorn Overlord: Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Unicorn Overlord
Platforms:
- Xbox Series X/S (Mar 8, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Mar 8, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Mar 8, 2024)
- Nintendo Switch (Mar 8, 2024)
Trailers:
- Unicorn Overlord — Demo Trailer | Nintendo Switch
- Unicorn Overlord — Announcement Trailer | Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S
Developer: Vanillaware
Publisher: ATLUS
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 88 average - 100% recommended - 20 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Atomix - Sebastian Quiroz - Spanish - 95 / 100
>Once again, Vanillaware shows its mastery for making games. Unicorn Overlord is, quite simply, one of the best games of the year.
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CGMagazine - Zubi Khan - 9 / 10
>Unicorn Overlord combines the stellar Vanillaware aesthetic in a tactical RPG experience that feels like a modern classic in the making.
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COGconnected - James Paley - 80 / 100
>This is very much my kind of RPG. One where I can tend to a massive roster of fighters, a sort of garden of fantasy violence. The combat is simple to execute yet endlessly deep, with new layers constantly revealing themselves. The art direction is fantastic and the gameplay loop is terribly addictive. I found the story perfectly okay. It’s an effective vehicle for bringing me more battles in an organic fashion. I like the writing, though I recognize it’s more style than substance. Truly, Unicorn Overlord plays to its strengths. If you also long for a battle system so compelling it obliterates the rest of the game, then you can’t miss this one.
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Hobby Consolas - David Rodriguez - Spanish - 85 / 100
>Vanillaware once again delivers a very special product that does not show signs of fatigue within a genre that has experienced a "boom" in recent years. Unicorn Overlord is gigantic and manages to stand out based on quality and ambition, although it could have spun something finer in some points in order to become a more original proposal.
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IGN - Eric Zalewski - 9 / 10
>Unicorn Overlord is a visual delight that's brimming with creativity, and an absolute must-play for any fan of strategy RPGs.
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Kakuchopurei - Alleef Ashaari - 60 / 100
>Ultimately, Unicorn Overlord excels in its graphics and art style. However, the gameplay is mostly just fun for a few hours before it devolves to becoming stale due to repetitiveness and a lot of insignificant mechanics (dating sim-like Rapport, etc.) that don't affect the gameplay. > >On the surface, it looks pretty excellent, but the final 40+ hour experience from start to finish makes you feel like playing a mobile game.
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Kotaku - Willa Rowe - Unscored
>But Unicorn Overlord is not interested in that, and frankly it doesn’t need to be. This is not a game that is trying to be a narrative masterpiece; it is trying to be a mechanical marvel, and it accomplishes the latter in spades. The endlessly inventive and incredibly well-designed tactical systems at play in Unicorn Overlord make it a thrilling challenge to tackle. It isn’t just a game that longtime fans of Vanillaware should pay attention to, it’s for anybody wanting to play the next great tactics RPG. Unicorn Overlord is the game you’ve been waiting for.
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 8 / 10
>A wonderfully weird console strategy game that's inspired by the past but forges its own very distinct legend, with beautiful visuals and deep but accessible gameplay.
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Nintendo Life - Alana Hagues - 9 / 10
>Even amidst a huge strategy RPG boom, Unicorn Overlord stands out. It's a smorgasbord of visual delights, intricate systems, and addictive gameplay loops that all come together to create a delightfully thrilling and deep tactical RPG. It's so easy to get absorbed into everything the game offers, and we lapped it all up. Vanillaware has long been known for creating beautiful-looking games with unique twists on genres, but with 13 Sentinels and now Unicorn Overlord, this developer should be on absolutely everyone's radar.
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One More Game - Chris Garcia - 9 / 10
>As good as it gets for an SRPG, Unicorn Overlord fills a gap in the gaming season with its admirable package of gameplay, visual and audio design, and, to a lesser extent, storytelling. Hours and hours will be poured into finding the perfect squads and classes, valuable relationships will be built, and a continent once plunged into strife will find its feet again. > >Vanillaware continues to show its prowess at building experiences in genres it isn’t exactly well-known for, and kudos to the studio for paying attention to the right stuff, and creating a game that will likely become a classic and a standard bearer.
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PSX Brasil - Francisco Maia - Portuguese - 90 / 100
>Vanillaware gets it right with Unicorn Overlord and reinvigorates a sub-genre of RPG that, for a long time, has been the target of huge scrutiny in the gaming industry. I strongly believe that it is also the best game ever created by the Japanese developer. Even though there are minor imperfections, the game is brilliant and worthy of the highest recommendation!
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 9 / 10
>It's hard to say whether Unicorn Overlord is objectively Vanillaware's best game, but for us, it's right up there, competing for the crown - and that's incredibly high praise. This is an immaculate and deeply engaging strategy RPG; the best example of the genre that we've played in years. For those who are looking to get lost in tactical thought, it's essential - and for everyone else, it still stands as an engrossing fantasy adventure. Vanillaware's done it again.
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Screen Rant - Cody Gravelle - 4.5 / 5
>Unicorn Overlord is a truly excellent tactical RPG that is great where it matters. Incredible gameplay makes it replayable and fascinating, while its aesthetic and world map keep Fevrith interesting. In spite of some minor stumbles in its cast of heroes, Unicorn Overlord rivals some of the best of Fire Emblem. That comparison will likely stop if Vanillaware pursues Unicorn Overlord as a series in the future; it's very much its own game, and a memorable, great one, at that.
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Siliconera - Graham Russell - 8 / 10
>Unicorn Overlord combines the timeless tactical RPG genre with overworld exploration and an innovative battle system for a unique epic fantasy experience in the iconic Vanillaware style. Switch version reviewed. Review copy provided by company for testing purposes. Unicorn Overlord is, as a whole, a loving and well-crafted return to the Ogre Battle formula. If the character designs aren’t a dealbreaker for you, and we’d understand if they are — seriously, can they at least figure out how shirt fabric works? — there’s a lot of interesting tactical decisions to make.
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TheGamer - James Kennedy - 4.5 / 5
>As a long-time TRPG fan, Unicorn Overlord is everything I wanted it to be and more. I suspect that some people will read this review and think that it sounds tedious, but that’s the thing about games that deliver such a focused experience: they aren’t going to appeal to everyone. However, by being so specific in everything it does, Unicorn Overlord ensures that those who do “get it” will be thinking of it fondly for decades to come.
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VG247 - James Billcliffe - 4 / 5
>Standing on its own, Unicorn Overlord is an excellent expansion of Vanillaware’s now-trademark visual style and its newer RTS mechanics, offering both gripping strategy and an atmospheric pulp fantasy world that you're going to want to sink hours and hours into.
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XboxEra - Genghis Husameddin - 9 / 10
>"...Unicorn Overlord is a fantastic strategy game that is both gorgeous as it is fun. Tactics fans are in for a treat, and even those weak to the genre find this game to be a fulfilling experience."
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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth | Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Platforms:
- PlayStation 5 (Feb 29, 2024)
Trailers:
- FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Gameplay Video
- FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Final Trailer
- FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - Destined for Rebirth
Developer: Square Enix
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 93 average - 100% recommended - 68 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Attack of the Fanboy - Davi Braid - 5 / 5
>Final Fantasy VII Remake evoked all kinds of emotions in me, made me see my low-poly childhood friends as real people, and allowed me to once again be part of a grandiose, fate-challenging, god-defying adventure that I haven't experienced since the PS1 days.
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But Why Tho? - Kyle Foley - 9 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a grand adventure that, despite minor pacing issues, is incredibly engaging and exciting. There are so many discoveries waiting to be uncovered, and every inch of the game is dripping with love and care.
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CGMagazine - Chris De Hoog - 10 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth delivers upon Remake's thesis, increasing a classic's scale and character tenfold to create a new modern-day masterpiece.
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COGconnected - James Paley - 95 / 100
>This Final Fantasy VII project is a massive undertaking of an impossible scale. A single release stretched into three games? Preposterous. And yet, so far the team is totally nailing it. The first game was a smash hit, and Rebirth runs laps around it in almost every way.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 9.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth defies all expectations and is the new benchmark for what a remake should be. Bold and unapologetic with something to say but also true to its roots. I've loved, I've laughed and I've cried while playing this game and if you fall into the right crowd, you very will too. Provided is an unforgettable journey, a magnetic cast, and a world that is magic and an experience that is transcending. From combat to graphics to music to side activities to writing to performances, Rebirth is one for the books and I can't wait to see where we go from here.
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Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Essential
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is incredible. I struggled to complete my review because I had so much fun working through each region in a nearly 100-hour playthrough. I dread waiting another four years for the finale but put my faith in Square Enix's hands. If Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth indicates what to expect going forward then I believe in the vision. The ending will be divisive for many people, but it means as much to the developers as it does to fans, and because of that idea, I walk away content with where we left off.
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Dexerto - Cassidy Stephenson - 5 / 5
>This is Game of the Year material and an exceptional follow-up to a revered first entry. It handles the beloved material with care while still establishing its own new voice, making for a stellar sequel.
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Digitally Downloaded - Matt Sainsbury - 4.5 / 5
>Most of all, I love and adore the work that Kazushige Nojima has done with the narrative (especially the ending that, once again, challenges everything we assumed about the FFVII plot), and he further entrenches himself as arguably the most innovative and creative writer in JRPGs with Rebirth.
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Easy Allies - Michael Damiani - 9.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth breaks limits as one of the most ambitious RPGs ever made.
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Eurogamer - Ed Nightingale - 4 / 5
>Rebirth is a playful take on an emo classic that's bloated but full of character in a bid to justify its own existence.
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Evilgamerz - Peter Derks - Dutch - 7.5 / 10
>A while ago I wrote that this was one of my most difficult reviews. That's because Rebirth does everything it can to make it as difficult as possible to love this game. Despite the adjustments, the main story is still fantastic, the soundtrack is great and so are the graphics during cutscenes. The open zones are not necessarily bad, but they are overcrowded with meaningless content that only functions as filler and not enough combat. When Rebirth opens everything up and you can dive into the combat or the story, then you can enjoy it. It's a shame that the game does everything it can to pull you out of there and saddle you with boring meaningless padding. Rebirth is at times brilliant, fantastic, beautiful and leaves you as an emotional wreck. It's just that it's interrupted so often that the entire outcome leans more toward "okay" and not what it could have been.
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Final Weapon - Noah Hunter - 5 / 5
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a generational RPG that exemplifies everything there is to love about the medium. Featuring a colossal open world, a gripping narrative, beautifully written characters, and an out-of-this-world soundtrack, Rebirth is a title no RPG fan should pass up on. It's improved on nearly everything from its predecessor, offering a complete and flawless combat system alongside countless other additions. FFVII Rebirth is the shining jewel of modern Final Fantasy, a prime example of the series at its best.
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GAMES.CH - Sönke Siemens - German - 90%
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth lives up to its name and presents you with the rebirth of a timeless story.
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GGRecon - Harry Boulton - 5 / 5
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is one of my favourite games that I've played in a long time and does so much with its narrative that feels uncompromisingly ambitious and fresh.
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Game Informer - Wesley LeBlanc - 8.5 / 10
>The best of Remake exists in Rebirth, but the various open-world areas surrounding it – the parts that make Rebirth unique from its predecessor – sometimes miss the mark.
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GameSpot - Tamoor Hussain - 8 / 10
>Rebirth keeps its narrative focus on characters while bringing a new dimension to combat, but it stumbles in pivotal moments.
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>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, follows in the footsteps of the first part and on top of that, every single aspect of the game, from combat system to visuals and content, has been improved significantly. not only does Final Fantasy VII Rebirth deliver one of the best combat system of all time, it also delivers one of the best gaming experiences of this generation.
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Gamer Escape - Eliot Lefebvre - 8 / 10
>Maybe it'd be nice to say that we all should have gotten over Final Fantasy VII by now instead of fawning over the world and its characters. But far from being the simple note-for-note reprise of the original that it could have been, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth swings for the fences to be a big and original thing that feels like a full game even while it is, functionally, the middle. It has weaknesses like combat I'm not wholly sold on and maybe a bit too much start-and-stop through gameplay, but if you've been looking forward to the game, you will not be disappointed. And if you want to experience the full story, this is a really good time.
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Gamers Heroes - Blaine Smith - 90 / 100
>My time through Final Fantasy VII Rebirth was profound. In one moment I was relishing in the opportunity to learn more about a world and characters I have loved for nearly 30 years. In the next, I was mourning the passing of principles and ideas that represent the very foundation of my love for the RPG genre and the Final Fantasy franchise as a whole. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth marks the very best in class across practically every element of game design for the Final Fantasy franchise, but I still couldn’t help but feel I was bidding farewell to an old friend.
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GamesRadar+ - Iain Harris - 4.5 / 5
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth closely follows what Remake first outlines
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Gaming Instincts - Leonid Melikhov - 8.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth provides a nostalgic trip with its enthralling story, beloved characters, and dynamic combat. However, its Ubisoft-influenced open-world design detracts from the experience, alongside technical shortcomings. Nonetheless, it remains a must-play for fans
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Gaming Nexus - Eric Hauter - 9.5 / 10
>With the core team assembled, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth feels like embarking on a fantastic adventure with a gang of your best friends. More open, action-packed, and surprisingly funny, Rebirth gives players days of content and the freedom to pursue it, while still telling a wonderful and cohesive story. Every aspect of Remake has been examined, refined, and improved. This is the franchise's Empire Strikes Back, in all the best ways.
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GamingBolt - Shubhankar Parijat - 10 / 10
>The promise of those old, grand, globe-trotting Final Fantasy epics from the series' 16- and 32-bit heyday in AAA form has been fulfilled at last. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth finally realizes the series' central, implicit potential, looking to the past to pave the way for hopefully the start of a new golden age for the series.
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GamingTrend - David Burdette - 95 / 100
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is not only a worthy successor to Remake, but to the original title. With an incredible and multi-layered open-world, outstanding combat, and a heartfelt story that takes you on a beautiful scenic route, Rebirth reaches heights you'd need one wing to touch. Rebirth is special; First-Class in a way only the best Soldiers can be.
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God is a Geek - Mick Fraser - 10 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth is a phenomenally good video game. It has a habit for self-indulgence, but earns every pause with some shocking story moments, and some of the best combat I've experienced.
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IGN - Michael Higham - 9 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth impressively builds off of what Remake set in motion, both as a best-in-class action-RPG full of exciting challenges and an awe-inspiring recreation of a world that has meant so much to so many for so long.
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IGN Italy - Alessandra Borgonovo - Italian - 9.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth proves that you can take a gaming icon and modernize it, offering today the same emotions as back then, net of narrative freedoms for which one wonders why.
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Kotaku - Claire Jackson - Unscored
>Rebirth is sure to be a more divisive and debated game than Remake was. But in this deep sea of an RPG, I was thrilled by the action and the tactics, brought to emotional highs and lows through its characters, and found myself with an even greater love of FF7, the original and this return, than I thought was possible.
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Metro GameCentral - Steve Boxer - 9 / 10
>An object lesson in how to turn an old classic into a modern masterpiece, that surpasses even Final Fantasy 7 Remake in terms of appealing to both veteran fans and complete newcomers.
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MonsterVine - Spencer Legacy - 5 / 5
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a remarkable sequel and one of the best RPGs of the generation. This new installment both respects and expands upon the original game’s story and legacy in a way that will please old-school fans while sowing some intriguing new narrative seeds for the final installment in this trilogy. I can’t wait to get my hands on whatever comes next – even if it takes another four years.
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Noisy Pixel - Bailey Seemangal - 10 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is an exceptional sequel that surpasses expectations in nearly every aspect. It combines compelling storytelling, innovative combat, and a wealth of engaging content to deliver an unforgettable adventure. As a bold continuation of the saga, it sets the stage for the final installment, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what comes next. Square Enix has truly outdone itself, showcasing the depth and potential of the Final Fantasy VII universe.
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One More Game - Vincent Ternida - 10 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth rises to the challenge set by its predecessor, by bringing to life every facet of the imagined open world we’ve cherished for decades and executing the vision to near perfection by marrying it with today's technology. Square Enix’s meticulous attention to detail, no matter how minute, resonates with awe-inspiring clarity, no longer feeling the need to imagine because the world is finally alive and it is here. > >While not flawless, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth navigates its journey with grace and offers a fascinating experience that makes it easy to overlook the minor issues. I found myself deeply impressed by the expansive overworld, the iconic set pieces, and the thoughtful expansions that honor the beloved title’s essence, making it a strong contender for Game of the Year nods and a definite reason to finally get a PS5 if you haven't yet.
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Paste Magazine - Moises Taveras - 8 / 10
>Rebirth‘s world is gorgeous and fun and quirky, even if the delivery of its stories can feel a bit stilted and rote, and it turns the finale of Remake into the impetus to re envision a phenomenal cast in ways I adore. Along the way, it becomes big, perhaps even bigger than Final Fantasy VII ever needed to be, but that excess provides quite a bit to love.
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Polygon - Todd Harper - Unscored
>Rebirth is worth your time, but I’m not sure if it’s worth as much of your time as it asks for. It’s a game that does many things right and does right by its weighty legacy — but it also makes it clear that for the future final installment, Square Enix should reconsider how necessary it is for these games to be so big.
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Post Arcade (National Post) - Chad Sapieha - 8.5 / 10
>The second instalment in Square Enix's epic three-part retelling of its most famous game opens up the world for players to explore. Read on.
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Press Start - Harry Kalogirou - 9 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is an immense and expansive middle chapter of this ambitious remake trilogy. A reimagined and redefined behemoth of a game that simultaneously plays on nostalgia and forces you to question your memories of the original. While it suffers from some rote open world elements and a few technical issues, Rebirth is another magnificent entry into the gilded halls of Final Fantasy.
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Prima Games - Meg Bethany Koepp - 10 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth may just be the best video game of all time. Its fantastic story does wonders to make you care about each character while its phenomenal world is absolutely filled with endless activities to participate in when you need a break from the heartache. It's an improvement in every way imaginable, yet it never forgets the goofy charm that made the 1997 original a classic.
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 8 / 10
>If you can push through the tedium of its open world busywork and padded storytelling, there's a great sequel at the heart of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. It retains all of Remake's most important strengths, but builds on an already brilliant combat system, and excels at showcasing an iconic RPG setting. If you enjoyed Remake and you have fond memories of the PS1 original, you'll likely love every minute of Rebirth's memorable, character-focused adventure.
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RPGamer - Paul Shkreli - 5 / 5
>This is the game that delivers on the promise of the Final Fantasy VII remake project. It’s a fascinatingly familiar yet unknown journey that is breathtaking and unforgettable.
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Saudi Gamer - Arabic - 9 / 10
>This installment builds on and improves upon what made REMAKE so great, namely beautiful scenery and epic music in addition to the best in class battle system, while one of that game's flaws, namely the dearth of side content, although the story segments can still suffer from filler content at times. It expands, improves Nd subverts enough to create a thrilling experience for veterans and newcomers alike.
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Shacknews - Jesse Vitelli - 8 / 10
>While there is a lot to love in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, it left me disappointed in its main narrative. I wish it was more focused on telling the story set out in Remake and its constant need to push the kitchen sink into each plot beat wore on my resolve throughout the game.
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Siliconera - Jenni Lada - 10 / 10
>It may only be February, but I'm confident Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is going to be 2024's Game of the Year.
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TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 9.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII Rebirth carries on the torch from Remake and delivers another incredible experience. The world of FFVII comes alive as you venture across it with Cloud and his party. Watching the story play out with gorgeous graphics and fantastic acting elevates the entire experience. This is a must play for Final Fantasy fans.
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The Nerd Stash - David Rodriguez - 9.5 / 10
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth tells a very bold and ambitious story that is faithful but isn't afraid to fix something that isn't broken.
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VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 4 / 5
>For better and worse alike, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the most impressively ambitious game Square has made since FF’s golden age. It’s glorious, in spite of painful little flaws.
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VGC - Jordan Middler - 5 / 5
>Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is an excellent RPG with some of the best characters in the gaming canon. While some open-world content skirts the edges, and the game's main narrative is left somewhat deflated, the time spent with Aerith, Tifa, and the gang makes this a hugely enjoyable road trip you'll be playing for hundreds of hours.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9.8 / 10
>Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth knocks it out of the park. It takes the already excellent first game and expands it to a bigger and more populated world. The combat has been improved, the dungeon design is better, the story hits a lot more than it misses, and from start to finish, it was pretty much everything I could've wanted. Only a few nagging problems keep it from perfection, and it's a love letter to everything that makes Final Fantasy VII great.
Persona 3 Reload Review Thread
Persona 3 Reload is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 53 critics, with an overall average score of 90. It's ranked in the top 1% of games and recommended by 100% of critics.
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Persona 3 Reload
Platforms:
- Xbox Series X/S (Feb 2, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Feb 2, 2024)
- PC (Feb 2, 2024)
- Xbox One (Feb 2, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Feb 2, 2024)
Trailers:
- Persona 3 Reload — Opening Movie | Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC
- Persona 3 Reload — The Meaning of Life | Xbox Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC
- Persona 3 Reload - Meet the S.E.E.S. Trailer | PS5 & PS4 Games
Developer: ATLUS
Publisher: SEGA
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 90 average - 100% recommended - 53 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Atomix - Sebastian Quiroz - Spanish - 95 / 100
>With a series of large and small improvements to its story, visuals and gameplay, Persona 3 Reload is the definitive version of the PlayStation 2 classic. This is one of the best remakes of the year.
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COGconnected - James Paley - 87 / 100
>I loved this game when it first released on the PS2. It felt almost too cool for console gaming, too crisp for the era in question. Even now, Reload carries a timeless charm that keeps me engaged. The battle system has been polished, the visuals are totally overhauled, and the game is bigger than ever. There’s pacing problems to be sure, and the gameplay loop isn’t for everyone. Plus, fans of certain versions will find this edition somewhat lacking in features. But maybe that’s okay? I’d rather judge this game on what it is, rather than what it isn’t. And Persona 3 Reload is an excellent evolution of a PS2 classic that fans new and old will almost certainly love.
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Cerealkillerz - Nick Erlenhof - German - 8.7 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is such a splendidly reworked version that it can almost feel like a completely new Persona. Gorgeous visuals, a perfectly remixed soundtrack, an improved battle system and a finally updated, albeit still in parts boring, trip through Tartarus really leave little to be desired when embarking on a trip to the Gekkoukan school. It's just a shame that the female protagonist and the additional chapter "The Answer" are still missing.
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Chicas Gamers - Raúl Pinto - Spanish - Unscored
>Persona 3 Reload is a turn-based RPG, as well as a narrative adventure, that brings back the acclaimed ATLUS game in a magnificent remake full of content. We find a game that is based on Persona 5 in terms of gameplay and appearance, having incredible gameplay and graphic style, in addition to a very good job with the old soundtrack and the new pieces introduced. The only problem is being completely overwhelmed by the FES content, an aspect that should not happen in a remake.
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ComicBook.com - Logan Moore - 4.5 / 5
>Persona 3 Reload definitely still feels dated in some areas, which isn't always expected from a modern remake. Despite this, some of these older aspects of Reload are what I came to appreciate the more that I played.
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ComingSoon.net - Tyler Treese - 9 / 10
>Remaking a legendary title is often a recipe for failure, but Persona 3 Reload lives up to its legacy and wonderfully updates the 2006 gem.
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Console Creatures - Matt Sowinski - Essential
>Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic way to experience a classic. The graphical and gameplay enhancements are meaningful, while the base story still shines years later. While the missing features from FES and Portable are missed, this is the definitive way to experience Persona 3.
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Dexerto - Noelle Corbett - 5 / 5
>If the goal of Persona 3 Reload is to modernize a classic JRPG from the PlayStation 2 era for a new generation of players, then it is undeniably a success. While there may be some legitimate disappointment over the lack of content from Persona 3 FES and Portable, what is here is more than enough to cement Reload’s status as a solid remake that delivers the now definitive version of Persona 3.
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Digital Chumps - Will Silberman - 9.5 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is not a carbon-copied remaster of Persona 3 Portable or even Persona 3. It’s a refreshed perspective of Persona 3 that removes a good bunch of pain from older RPGs while retaining the charm and character of the original. It feels like many thoughtful decisions were made to better the game’s flow without compromising on its core experience or watering it down. My only concern is that owners of 2023’s Persona 3 Portable might feel like there aren’t enough changes to warrant a replay. But, if you haven’t yet experienced its source material, Persona 3 Reload is without a doubt the best version of the game to play.
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Digital Spy - Jess Lee - 4 / 5
>It's dark at times, but has a hopeful message. Through all the devastation, the cast learn to be there for each other and try to make the most out of life.
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Digital Trends - George Yang - 4.5 / 5
>Persona 3 Reload is a win-win of a remake for old and new Persona fans alike.
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Digitally Downloaded - Matt Sainsbury - 5 / 5
>While I personally prefer the more textured narrative of Persona 4, the unrelenting focus and intensity of Persona 3 means that it still stands out as one of the greatest and most intelligent video game narratives. The developers haven’t done too much to mess with that (the decision to leave out a “post-game” chapter that was both technically unnecessary but yet well-regarded notwithstanding), and have otherwise focused on modernising both the look and flow of the game to make it the most enjoyable and “clean” version of Persona 3 yet. Persona has a habit of attracting purists, and I foresee the discourse around this remake being particularly volatile. However, personally, I’ll be over there looking forward to the inevitable announcement that Persona 4 will get this treatment too.
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DualShockers - Emma Ward - 9 / 10
>Dive into the Dark Hour and awaken the depths of your heart. Persona 3 Reload is a captivating reimagining of the genre-defining RPG, reborn for the modern era with cutting-edge graphics and gameplay.
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Eurogamer - Kaan Serin - 4 / 5
>Reload adds welcome modernisations to the wonderfully deadly coming-of-age story that captured hearts in 2006, though visual tweaks undermine the thematic coherence.
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FandomWire - Osama Farooq - 8 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload takes the concept of remaking a beloved title and goes all the way through with it, especially when it comes to the visual finesse and the excellent presentation. The social simulation, interactions, and activities are some of the best ever put into a video game, making it feel immersive from the very first day at Gekkoukan High School. > >There is always something to do in this wonderful city, ranging from the grand reopening of an old bookstore at the mall to heading to numerous restaurants to spend time with friends. > >While the social links stand out as the undisputed highlight in Persona 3 Reload, it is the monotonous Tartarus and generic enemy designs that ironically slow things down and make the combat feel a bit dull compared to the other aspects of the game. The storyline is gripping and intriguing at the beginning and stays that way later on too, but because of the more serious elements that are never fully realized, it starts to lose its hold as time goes on. > >However, the stunning animation, fluid gameplay, wide palette of character types, great soundtrack, and bustling setting make Persona 3 Reload a highly enjoyable remake.
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GAMES.CH - Sven Raabe - German - 90%
>Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic remake of an already great cult game. All kinds of clever gameplay innovations and an enormous amount of style make this a gripping JRPG that you shouldn't miss out on. The remake of the PlayStation 2 classic is even now a hot contender for the best role-playing game of the still quite young year.
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GGRecon - Ben Williams - 5 / 5
>Persona 3 Reload is one of the best remakes I’ve ever seen - a faithful but stunning reimagining of a classic JRPG that will please Persona veterans and newcomers alike. > >With the only small negatives coming from Atlus’ dedication to recapturing the experience of the original, fans will without a doubt debate this being the best in the series after being reminded why Persona 3 is so spectacular.
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Game Rant - Drew Swanson - 4.5 / 5
>Overall, Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic package that offers enough new content to satisfy fans of the original, while remaining faithful to what made that entry so special. It's also an incredibly approachable entry for newcomers thanks to the myriad of enhancements to the Persona series' combat and social mechanics. It's clear that Persona 3 Reload isn't just a remake of an outdated game, it's an entry that is entirely its own and signals a bright future for the franchise in the post-Persona 5 era.
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GameBlast - Farley Santos - Portuguese - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload stands out as an example of how to modernize a classic, remaining faithful to the original while introducing significant innovations, such as revamped visuals, additional events and new mechanics. However, some concepts remain in the past, such as repetitive dungeon exploration. With its strengths far outweighing its flaws, the game is a recommended experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the Persona series.
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GameSpew - Richard Seagrave - 8 / 10
>Even with the issues you can pick at in this remake, though, there’s no denying that Persona 3 Reload is one hell of game. Its story is as engaging as ever, and now its gameplay has been notably improved, giving you more options in combat and out. Along with the new visuals and soundtrack, Persona 3 has never looked, sounded or played as good. It’s just silly that it’s arrived so close to the remaster of Persona 3 Portable: if you’ve played that recently, it might not grab your attention throughout due to its authenticity. For those who are yet to jump in or are keen to relive the classic yet again, however, simply play and enjoy.
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GameSpot - Jess Cogswell - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload succeeds in elevating an unforgettable story with smart combat changes and drastically improved visuals.
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Gameblog - KiKiToes - French - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is an excellent remake and truly modernize the game by harmonize it with Persona 5. A truly impressive graphical leap that which brings new perspectives and brings some new features. The Tartarus still feels outdated and could have benefited from some tweaks. But Persona 3 Reload is still a memorable game and one of the best of the beginning of the year.
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Gamer Guides - Chris Moyse - 75 / 100
>One of the most esteemed and cherished RPGs of all time returns, smoother and smarter than ever. Unfortunately, Persona 3 Reload deals an incomplete hand, with disappointing omissions, stunted evolution, and a contentious price tag. Nonetheless, its indelible cast retain their infectious social spirit, set to break your heart and burn your dread all over again.
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GamingTrend - David Flynn - 95 / 100
>Persona 3 Reload is the best Persona game to date. It reimagines a fan favorite to be the best it can be, even if it does stumble in some ways. There are a few Social Links that could have used overhauling, and the game is a bit too faithful to the original in these ways. However, the overall experience is transcendent and took me straight back to hanging out with my virtual friends in high school, getting to know them and slicing up Shadows. There really is nothing out there like Persona.
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Generación Xbox - Javier Gutierrez Bassols - Spanish - 90 / 100
>Persona 3 Reload is everything a remake should be. A title that respects the essence of the original game and that, in addition to presenting a new graphic section, has several new features. This respect for the original, even though it has been remade from scratch, allows us to focus on improving and expanding some elements that were already good.
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God is a Geek - Lyle Carr - 9.5 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload improves the original version of the game in so many ways, and is absolutely essential for all RPG fans.
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Hobby Consolas - Álvaro Alonso - Spanish - 92 / 100
>Although it lacks two key pieces to be the "definitive version", Persona 3 Reload modernizes a classic to the level of today's great RPGs and includes enough new features to tempt those who already knew it once again. The best of both worlds, as they say.
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IGN - Michael Higham - 9 / 10
>With a stellar visual overhaul and countless small but impactful changes, Persona 3 Reload tells a timeless story of tragedy and hope with sharp emotional sincerity.
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IGN Italy - Majkol Robuschi - Italian - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a pleasure to play. Throughout the adventure you switch between fighting and school activities with great fluidity, and it is safe to say that the 2000s JRPG that defined the entire genre is back in better shape than ever.
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IGN Spain - Esteban Canle - Spanish - 8 / 10
>Persona 3 needed a facelift, and Atlus has delivered. This adaptation respects the source material, and brings an iconic title that now has the opportunity to reach many more people into the modern age.
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 8 / 10
>A solid, if strangely incomplete, remake which matches Persona 5 for presentation and has some of the most interesting and varied social link options of the whole series.
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Noisy Pixel - Bailey Seemangal - 8.5 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a highly-anticipated remake that doesn't deliver on all fronts. Still, it tries to do so with plenty of meticulous care. The added character scenes and new activities make the experience even more compelling, while the modernized visuals and new English voice cast live up to this classic's legacy. However, some of the new gameplay features make the experience too easy and forgiving. Additionally, the exclusion of some elements, like The Answer from Persona 3 FES, makes this launch less definitive than it could have been.
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One More Game - Vincent Ternida - Buy
>Persona 3 Reload is a triumph, considering the degree of difficulty that Atlus was challenged with when they decided to remake such a classic. Through a combination of thoughtful upgrades and leaving behind dated mechanics, this title is ready to satisfy the evolving taste of franchise fans while catering to newcomers and introducing them to the world of Persona. > >Persona 3 Reload proves that you can have both a challenging and accessible JRPG without losing Persona 3’s core identity, as it refines the dated designs and systems of the original by bringing it in line with Persona 5, offering a modern take that stands tall among its peers.
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PSX Brasil - Thiago de Alencar Moura - Portuguese - 90 / 100
>Persona 3 Reload is an imperfect remake in which, although the lack of content from previous expanded versions bothers it, its novelties and the necessary (and very well executed) combat rework make this the best way to play the best narrative the series has ever had in a package with a great localization in PT-BR.
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PlayStation Universe - Joe Richards - 10 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a flawless reimagining of one of the most impactful RPGs of the PS2 generation and manages to carefully preserve just about everything I loved about the original game in a stylish bombastic package. The approach to modernising the gameplay is a masterclass and should be the gold standard going forward for RPGs of this ilk. For players who have only experienced modern Persona through Persona 5 and Persona 5 Royal, you would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping this title. An equally wonderful cast and effective story lift this into one of the most impactful games that I have ever played and this new version means it can be enjoyed by a completely new generation.
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Press Start - Harry Kalogirou - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a confident remake of a truly seminal RPG that cements itself as the definitive way to play Persona 3. It's clear that careful thought and deliberation has gone into every aspect of Reload to respect the legacy of Persona 3 while preserving its timeless charm and atmosphere. An absolute must play for any fan of the franchise, and a great point to jump in for those looking to take the plunge into Persona.
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Prima Games - Patrick Souza - 10 / 10
>Reload feels like a new game without deviating from the original. Almost every aspect has been improved, and it might be the new best point of entry for the series.
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a brilliant remake. In terms of gameplay, it's easily the best incarnation of a classic RPG, boasting countless quality of life and mechanical adjustments that place it alongside the outstanding Persona 5 Royal. Storytelling enhancements make the plot even more impactful, and the remade visuals are a joy to behold. Reload is borderline essential if you're yet to experience Persona 3, while also providing a near perfect way for existing fans to relive a seminal release.
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>Despite being a remake, Persona 3 Reload is undoubtedly at the forefront of mainline Persona titles. Fans have been asking for a re-imagining of Persona 3 for the longest time and Atlus has finally answered their calls. The game appeals to both fans and newcomers of the series, as it offers a compelling story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay, all through a modern lens.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Matt Cox - Unscored
>A repetitive journey through a year of quirky yet cheesy high school relationships, interspersed with tedious turn-based combat.
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Shacknews - Donovan Erskine - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a treat for not only fans of the 2000s classic, but newcomers as well. ATLUS does an excellent job at preserving everything that made the original game special while modernizing it for those that may be experiencing it for the first time. It’s JRPG excellence at every turn, and one I’ll be sinking many hours into between now and the release of the next mainline Persona game.
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Siliconera - Jenni Lada - 9 / 10
>While I miss the female protagonist and the dungeon-crawling element may feel a bit dated, Persona 3 Reload is a joy to play and offers everything I could want from it.
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Spaziogames - Gianluca Arena - Italian - 8.7 / 10
>We disagree with the people at Atlus and their decision to leave Tartarus as it was, but nonetheless this is one of the best JRPGs of the modern era, and this remake makes it shine like it deserves. The one for this review was our fifth run in eighteen years and we still didn't feel any fatigue playing it. Let's just hope the devs will include Persona 3 FES and Portable content later down the road.
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The Games Machine - Nicholas Mercurio - Italian - 9.5 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a sensational work that is not just satisfied with being a remake but is, consequently, something that reformulates the development of ATLUS video games for an even wider audience. Choosing one of the greatest and most powerful works of the JRPG genre, thus forging a title to improve and revisit a work of the genre, was by no means an easy and immediate task. Indeed, it was something extremely complex. An incredible great return that can be summed up in the term "Masterpiece".
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The Nerd Stash - Nat Collazo - 8.5 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is perfect for new and veteran fans alike and is sure to get fans of turn-based JRPGs turned on to the rest of the Persona series.
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The Outerhaven Productions - Todd Black - 4.5 / 5
>Persona 3 Reload is everything that fans of the franchise wanted from a remake and more. It doesn't change the story but builds upon the various gameplay elements that have become staples in the games that came after. Plus, the story and characters are incredible, and you'll love getting to know them more.
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>Inconsistent graphics and the lack of a female protagonist we had in Portable aside, however, this remains a solid means of enjoying one of the finest RPGs of the past two decades. Its writing is sharper, combat is more satisfying, and it brings this world to life in ways that just weren’t possible several generations ago. Reload might lack its signature rough edge, but those coming around for the first time will find plenty to love.
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TheSixthAxis - Nic Bunce - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a dream come true for Persona fans. With far more than just a visual uplift, this is very much the best possible edition of the game, even if it can't quite be called 'definitive'.
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Twinfinite - Zhiqing Wan - 4.5 / 5
>Persona 3 Reload is an outstanding and worthy remake of a game that’s proven it can withstand the test of time. Welcome back to the dorm.
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VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 4 / 5
>At a certain point you have to step back and judge a game for what it is rather than what it isn’t. After all, if you want the female protagonist there’s Portable, and if you want the epilogue there’s FES. But as a stand-alone thing – as a convenient, modern, and attractive way to experience a truly great RPG classic – Persona 3 Reload is a wonderful offering.
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VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 9 / 10
>P3R’s poignant tale of acceptance is bolstered by smart combat refinements, deeper friendships, and a soundtrack you already love.
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WhatIfGaming - Ali Hashmi - 9 / 10
>Persona 3 Reload is a fantastic remake that cleverly integrates mechanics from subsequent entries to provide an experience that's polished, expertly paced, and full of heart. Its fast-paced combat, quality-of-life additions, and host of activities always keep you engaged no matter where you are in the story. The darker tone lends to an overall narrative that feels more consequential, and Tatsumi Port Island is a joy to explore. It's an excellent place for newcomers to the series and a must-buy for RPG fans.
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XboxEra - Genghis Husameddin - 9.5 / 10
>"But what I think Persona 3 Reload does best is that it brings one of my favourite Persona games to a new audience and excels at it. The visuals are gorgeous, the pacing isn’t overtly stretched out, the combat is fun and fluid, and the story is still great. Anyone can get in on this game’s excellent blend of school life and role-playing genres and I can wholeheartedly recommend this game, not just because Persona 3 is a classic for me, but because Persona 3 Reload is genuinely fantastic."
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Tekken 8 | Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Tekken 8
Platforms:
- PC (Jan 25, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Jan 25, 2024)
- Xbox Series X/S (Jan 25, 2024)
Trailers:
- TEKKEN 8 – RELEASE DATE AND EXCLUSIVE CONTENT REVEAL TRAILER
- TEKKEN 8 — Story & Gameplay Teaser Trailer
- TEKKEN 8 – Reveal Trailer
Developer: Bandai Namco Studios Inc.
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 90 average - 98% recommended - 63 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
AltChar - Asmir Kovacevic - 85 / 100
>Featuring a wide variety of modes, impressive graphics and compelling sound, Tekken 8 distinguishes itself as a standout in the fighting game genre.
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But Why Tho? - Charles Hartford - 9.5 / 10
>Tekken 8 offers great gameplay through precise controls, gorgeous visuals, and audio that energizes the player.
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CGMagazine - Khari Taylor - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 sets a new standard in the fighting game genre, brilliantly blending a vast array of characters, innovative gameplay, cutting-edge visuals, and user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for both series veterans and newcomers alike.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Omi Koulas - 8 / 10
>TEKKEN 8 unleashes a storm of punches, blending chaotic Mishima drama with accessible combat changes. The short story, though dramatic, loses steam, but the Heat system and Special Style redefine the fight. Arcade Quest mode injects a needed charm, offering a nostalgic journey with opportunities to grow your fighting game skills. Visually stunning with a diverse soundtrack, the game achieves a balance between the familiar and the cutting-edge. Despite a stumble in the narrative, TEKKEN 8 delivers a knockout combo.
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Eurogamer - Lewis Parker - 5 / 5
>Tekken 8 is a marked improvement over Tekken 7 and a perfectly executed balancing act, keeping older players happy while revealing its trademark freedom to newcomers.
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Game Informer - Marcus Stewart - 8.3 / 10
>As a complete package, Tekken 8 doesn’t reach the heights of recent rivals like Street Fighter 6 and Mortal Kombat 1. But when the match begins, and you’re exploiting openings to unleash flashy combo strings and air juggles, it remains a thrilling, if very familiar, one-on-one experience.
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GameSpot - Jason Fanelli - 8 / 10
>A new aggressive fighting system and a healthy cast of characters make Tekken 8 pack a powerful punch.
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GamesRadar+ - Oscar Taylor-Kent - 5 / 5
>Tekken 8 has a depth to it that can feel overwhelming. But it's also a game that doesn't force you to take it all in at once.
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GamingBolt - Ravi Sinha - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 is a shot in the arm for the series, advancing the story while offering addictive combat, exceptional presentation and a suite of features to attract new and experienced players.
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IGN - Ronny Barrier - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 is an incredible evolution for the series, with tons of single player content, an excellent suite of training tools, a great online experience, and exciting new mechanics that make Tekken more dynamic than ever.
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Multiplayer First - Paulmichael Contreras - 9.5 / 10
>Tekken 8 joins a full roster of fighting games, and competes with the best of them. Naturally, as we couldn’t take the game online during our review period, it remains to be seen how effective Bandai Namco and Akira were at implementing rollback netcode. All Tekken fans should buy Tekken 8 without hesitation, and most fighting game fans will find something to like as well. Though the year may have just started, Tekken 8 will probably compete for fighting game of the year and barring any surprises, should be the runaway winner.
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PC Gamer - Mollie Taylor - 89 / 100
>The best Tekken game in years, let down only by its struggling netcode and aged customisation.
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PCGamesN - Christian Vaz - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 improves on its predecessor with a complete graphics overhaul, drastically improved netcode, and a robust base game package featuring 32 characters and 16 stages. With DLC fighters already in the pipeline, there's more than enough content to keep fighting game fans packing punches for the foreseeable future.
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Polygon - Patrick Gill - Unscored
>There is a lot to love here. Satisfying mechanics, gorgeous combat animation, flashy presentation, and a killer soundtrack. That said, I don’t know if my own excitement will be enough to win over friends who are on the fence about the unremarkable story, incomplete tutorialization, and aesthetically dubious roster.
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Push Square - Robert Ramsey - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 is a modern fighting game masterclass. It doesn't skimp on single-player modes, its online offering is robust, and it's a serious visual spectacle. But most importantly, the battles are brilliant; accessible yet deeply technical, and supremely satisfying to be a part of - perhaps more so than ever before. There's no fighting game series quite like Tekken, and Tekken 8 is the franchise at its bombastic best.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Brendan Caldwell - Unscored
>It's a lot like Tekken 7, but angrier.
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Saudi Gamer - عبد الله الباشان - Arabic - 10 / 10
>Tekken 8 is the ultimate form of the veteran franchise that will make every Tekken player and fan proud of how much Bandai Namco have achieved with this masterpiece
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Stevivor - Steve Wright - 7 / 10
>Tekken 8 will surely impress fans but I struggled to connect with it like I have Mortal Kombat 1 and Street Fighter 6. There's no denying it's a feast for the senses and is full of stuff to do... but if you're like me and haven't found Tekken memorable despite playing it across many years and many platforms, that's unlikely to change here.
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Twisted Voxel - Salal Awan - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 not only meets but exceeds the high expectations set by its predecessor, Tekken 7, by delivering a refined fighting experience with new features like the Heat Gauge. It sets new standards in visual quality, single-player content, and character customization, offering a comprehensive and engaging experience that is both visually stunning and rich in gameplay variety.
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VG247 - Connor Makar - 5 / 5
>Tekken 8 is a faster, hyper, and fuller package than before. A must-grab for fighting enthusiasts.
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VGC - Chris Scullion - 5 / 5
>Tekken 8 is a sensational sequel. With a renewed emphasis on single-player modes and a new Heat mechanic which ensures fights are more frenetic, it's up there with Tekken 3 as one of the most exciting high points in the series.
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XboxEra - Genghis Husameddin - 9.5 / 10
>TEKKEN 8 is an outstanding fighting game. An extremely strong 3D fighter with lots of offline content, strong core mechanics, and all around a fun and stylish game. TEKKEN continues to show the world why it's the winner of the Iron Fist Tournament.
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ZTGD - Ken McKown - 9 / 10
>Tekken 8 is an outstanding entry into the series with a ton of content for both online and offline players. This is how you pack a game with enough content to keep players invested. The plethora of modes, customization, and superb game play create a package that any fan of the genre should not miss.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth Review Thread
Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is rated 'Mighty' after being reviewed by 61 critics, with an overall average score of 90. It's ranked in the top 1% of games and recommended by 100% of critics.
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth
Platforms:
- PC (Jan 26, 2024)
- PlayStation 5 (Jan 26, 2024)
- PlayStation 4 (Jan 26, 2024)
- Xbox Series X/S (Jan 26, 2024)
- Xbox One (Jan 26, 2024)
Trailer:
Developer: Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Publisher: SEGA
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 90 average - 100% recommended - 60 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Attack of the Fanboy - Diego Perez - 4.5 / 5
>With a refined battle system, a stellar supporting cast, and the best side content the series has ever seen, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is one of the best RPGs of the modern era.
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But Why Tho? - Eddie De Santiago - 10 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth feels like a victory lap while simultaneously paving the way for the future of the franchise.
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CGMagazine - Justin Wood - 10 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth sets a new standard for the Yakuza series with its captivating story, mesmerizing gameplay, and richly detailed side activities.
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COGconnected - Jaz Sagoo - 90 / 100
>With its touching yet hilarious story and intricate, deep combat system, we already have a game of the year contender.
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Cerealkillerz - Nick Erlenhof - German - 9.5 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is an incredibly ambitious title that can be recommended without reservation. It has been improved in every nook and cranny compared to its predecessor, with the turn-based battles benefiting in particular. The story offers an ambivalent rollercoaster ride, especially from the halfway point onwards, and the side quests are more varied and sprawling than ever before. And there won't be a better nostalgia trip for Yakuza/Kiryu fans any time soon.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 9.5 / 10
>Taking the franchise to new heights and new locales, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the pinnacle of the longstanding franchise. The game magnificently pulls off the difficult task of giving new and loyal players the best of both worlds with a new Ichiban-led story while also nailing emotional pay-off years in the making with Kiryu's story portions. Providing quality side content that is addicting and seemingly endless, there isn't a single drip of the game that is dry, dull, or not worth your time. Never have I played a title this rewarding and satisfying with its delightful humour found in substories and over-the-top turn-based combat. It may be largely set in a different country with the picturesque and gigantic Honolulu but this is the Like a Dragon series through and through. Infinite Wealth is like an ocean. Let it all sink in. I promise it's well worth it.
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Chicas Gamers - Juanma Luengo - Spanish - Unscored
>Ichiban has returned with a bang in one of the best Yakuza saga titles ever made. The charisma of all the characters and the almost absurd variety of missions, activities and mini-games make it a sink of hours at the controls that are impossible to resist. Of course, if you have not played any Yakuza before or the previous Like a dragon it may not be a game for you and you should decide to start with the recent Like a dragon gaiden or with the first Like a dragon starring Ichiban.
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Console Creatures - Dennis Price - Recommended
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is not just Ichiban's best game yet, but so far, it may be my favourite in the series, hands down.
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Cultured Vultures - Ashley Bates - 9 / 10
>Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth sun-baked adventure expertly improves on the last game's formula, while giving enough space for both of its leading Dragons to truly shine.
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Daily Mirror - Scott McCrae - 5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth features one of the series' best stories yet, all while packing in a wealth of fantastic side content
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Destructoid - Eric Van Allen - 8 / 10
>Among the wealth of Like a Dragon games we’ve had over the last year or so, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is easily the stand-out for me.
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Dexerto - Jeremy Gan - 4 / 5
>Yakuza is a unique series, and for a long time, it felt like the only reason it worked in all its glorious surreality and heartfelt storylines was Kiryu. However, Infinite Wealth proves Yakuza can exist past Kiryu’s legacy, and Ichiban is the right man to bring about Yakuza’s new generation.
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Digital Spy - Ben Rayner - 4.5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is another rich entry in this long-running series, which clearly still has more to offer before it runs out of steam.
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Digital Trends - Giovanni Colantonio - 4 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the most emotionally impactful chapter in gaming’s best soap opera. It struggles to stay fully engaging from start to finish due to a supersized runtime filled with exhausting exposition dumps, but developer Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio delivers a deeply personal story that’s serious without sacrificing its heart. If any video game could leave you with a new lease on life, it’s this.
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Digitec Magazine - Domagoj Belancic - German - Unscored
>Infinite Wealth is a chaotic masterpiece. The game celebrates its silliness and just lets me have fun in its colorful open world. The revised combat system offers additional strategic depth and a highly entertaining, over the top presentation. The side activities are the best in the series. The addicting "Sujimon" and "Dondoko Island" mini-games in particular allow you to completely lose yourself and invest countless hours in them. > >Despite its silliness, Infinite Wealth manages to establish believable characters and evoke deep emotions. Kiryu's touching story in particular will bring tears to the eyes of long-time fans. Newcomers will quickly be overwhelmed by the countless characters, storylines and gameplay mechanics. If you want to get into the Like a Dragon series, I recommend you start with an older installment and save this wild work of art as the crowning conclusion.
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Eurogamer - Kaan Serin - 4 / 5
>Violent stakes once again meet zany shenanigans in Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth, the series' much-improved second RPG.
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Everyeye.it - Giuseppe Carrabba - Italian - 8.5 / 10
>Infinite Wealth kept us immersed for dozens of hours in its world full of content, another testament to the talent of its creators.
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FandomWire - Luke Addison - 9 / 10
>The amount of content, time, and thought that has been put into Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is staggering, and it's inarguable that it is worth every penny for both fans of the franchise, but also those wanting to try it out for the first time. Even though I was lucky enough to have my copy of the game three weeks before this review went live, I can say there are still huge amounts of gameplay left for me to play, with the multiple mini-games, substories, and activities keeping me entertained. If I had to put a number on it, there are easily triple-digit hours worth of game here, and nearly all of it is incredible. > >There are a few bugbears to put up with, with the odd bug here and there, some character models do look poor - reserved for the infrequently seen side-characters or the NPCs on the streets -, and some parts of the city do feel empty, and not lived in. That said, not only are these all relatively minimal and inconsequential to the larger experience, but you'll quickly realize that the good way outweighs the small amounts of bad, and you'll have an absolute blast in what could be the studio's best game yet.
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Final Weapon - Raul Ochoa - 5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the mountaintop of the Like a Dragon series and a spectacular title that manages to impress from start to finish. This is a grand, momentous adventure that sees players control both of the series protagonists in a story that ultimately shapes the future of Like a Dragon. It's a masterpiece that improves gameplay systems from Yakuza: Like a Dragon while driving ambition in many other aspects.
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GGRecon - Dave McAdam - 5 / 5
>Suffice it to say, Infinite Wealth has everything good about the Like a Dragon series going for it. The previous game was a revolution, a total change of what a Like a Dragon game is. Infinite Wealth is evolution, the ideas of the past polished and perfected.
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GamePro - Jonas Herrmann - German - 90 / 100
>Quote not yet available
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Gamer Guides - Chris Moyse - 100 / 100
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a sublimely designed celebration not only of its own storied past, but of the joys of gaming itself. Epic in scale, driven by an emotive story, and overflowing with compelling action and absorbing activities, Infinite Wealth’s bold ambition pays off handsomely, resulting in one of the finest open-world adventures ever made.
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GamesRadar+ - Hirun Cryer - 4 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a sublime RPG with a fantastic combat system, absorbing stories, and at-times fascinating story, if it wasn't let down by its drip-fed narrative nature and heavy nostalgic leanings
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Gaming Nexus - Eric Hauter - 9.5 / 10
>The scope and depth of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth are stunning, as is the amount of addictive fun the game provides. With a ton of new mechanics, minigames that are more like full-sized games, and great characters, this enormous (and enormously entertaining) action/RPG title is one of the best values in AAA gaming. Like a Dragon is willing to do anything to entertain you. You should probably get on board if you aren't already.
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GamingBolt - Pramath - 9 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a staggeringly massive RPG featuring the culmination of all that RGG Studios, and the Yakuza/Like a Dragon franchise, have worked towards over the last two decades. An incredibly high quality experience that doubles down on everything that was beloved about the previous entry, Infinite Wealth completes the series' transformation into a genre-leading JRPG franchise.
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GamingTrend - Henry Viola - 95 / 100
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a triumph, and a worthy continuation of the Like a Dragon franchise. RGG Studio has managed to improve on the gameplay mechanics and features of the previous title in virtually every way whilst upholding the narrative quality and goofy nature of the series. The game is not without its flaws, but they are overshadowed by its strengths, and the game deserves praise for its ambition and innovation. Infinite Wealth is undoubtedly an early game of the year contender, and a must play for RPG lovers and Yakuza enthusiasts alike.
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Generación Xbox - Gabriel Fuentes - Spanish - 93 / 100
>If something made you hesitant to buy it, I hope I've convinced you. It's worth every penny.
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God is a Geek - Chris White - 10 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the studio's best ever work, giving us one hell of a story, and gameplay that remains fun throughout.
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IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 9 / 10
>Sprawling, enthralling, and packed with dynamic brawling, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth isn’t just the best turn-based Like a Dragon game, it’s one of the greatest games in the entire series.
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IGN Italy - Francesco Destri - Italian - 8 / 10
>Not everything is well-focused in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, but the rate of cringe and exaggeration in narrative and gameplay is such that is almost impossible not being entertained.
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Infinite Start - Mark Fajardo - 9 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth surpasses expectations with its seamless integration of compelling narrative, diverse gameplay mechanics, and innovative features such as tag team attacks, or Sujimon Battles. The meticulously crafted landscapes of Yokohama, and Hawaii, complemented by the return of beloved characters elevate the narrative, captivating both series veterans and newcomers alike. Positioned as a must-play, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth offers an unforgettable journey through vibrant worlds that firmly establishes it as an early standout among the best games of 2024.
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MonsterVine - Spencer Legacy - 5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is what all sequels should aspire to be. The gameplay is improved upon all-around, the story is riveting from start to finish, and the breadth of side content is second-to-none. It may be early, but I feel confident in saying that one of 2024’s game of the year frontrunners has debuted not even a month in.
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Multiplayer First - James Lara - 9.5 / 10
>Like a Dragon’s Infinite Wealth delivers a captivating RPG experience that surpasses its predecessor in every way. With refined mechanics and an expansive world bursting with content, players are treated to a gaming experience of remarkable depth. The emotionally charged narrative, filled with unexpected turns, adds a layer of poignancy, making the journey in Infinite Wealth a memorable exploration of both gameplay and storytelling excellence. > >It may not be on everyone’s list of games to play, but it definitely should be. As for this reviewer, it makes a strong early claim of being my personal Game of the Year.
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PC Gamer - Dominic Tarason - 80 / 100
>Stuffed with content and pathos, Infinite Wealth delivers a near-excessive amount of urban crime-drama adventure.
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PCGamesN - Harry Schofield - 9 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is the end result of two decades of iteration from Ryu Ga Gotoku and the studio's best game yet. Sprawling but never bloated, it remains captivating from beginning to end across both its main narrative and bountiful side adventures, almost never missing a beat.
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>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is packed with the absurd humor, crime drama, and mini-games you expect from the JRPG series.
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PSX Brasil - Isabella Alves - Portuguese - 90 / 100
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is, along with Lost Judgment, one of RGG's most ambitious titles. The union of the two dragons brings a mature plot, full of intrigue, with fun and exciting moments, but also a strong criticism of our society.
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PlayStation Universe - Joe Richards - 9 / 10
>Despite changing the name of the franchise for us in the West, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is more of the same that we've come to love. A huge variety of content to dive into and an ambitious, heartening story help to bring this package into one that fans of the series will absolutely adore. RGG Studios have polished the foundations of the new RPG battle system to a shine in this new entry and the result is a game full of personality and refreshing spirit that is a joy to experience from beginning to end. This game is an ambitious jump into a new frontier for the Like A Dragon franchise and is all the better for it. For those who have experienced the story of Like A Dragon up until now, you be doing yourself a disservice to miss this.
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Press Start - Kieron Verbrugge - 9 / 10
>Infinite Wealth is a stellar follow-up to Yakuza: Like a Dragon in just about every way. It's bigger, bolder and with some smart tweaks to combat it's a significantly better turn-based RPG. Series fans have a ton to look forward to in the larger-than-life story and emotional character moments, and though there are some glaring issues with its dungeons and post-game offerings, the end result is the franchise's best entry yet.
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Prima Games - Shaun Cichacki - 10 / 10
>Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a game all about heart. A main character with a heart of gold, a story full of heart-warming and heart-wrenching moments, and a world that showcases the heartbeat of what makes the Like A Dragon franchise as special as it is.
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Push Square - Liam Croft - 9 / 10
>Like a Dragon fans will turn up in their droves for a new Yakuza story regardless of overall quality, but never has one been as utterly essential as Infinite Wealth.
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RPG Fan - Jonathan Logan - 94%
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth provides not just an incredible Yakuza and JRPG experience, but provides a darn near infinite amount of content as well.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A colossal JRPG that improves on its predecessor in ways big and small, making for an unmissable Hawaiian retreat.
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Saudi Gamer - عصام الشهوان - Arabic - 8 / 10
>The game builds on what Yakuza: Like a Dragon laid the foundation for, with a host of improvements and a much larger game. A proper send off for Kiryu and a new beginning for Kasuga.
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Shacknews - Lexi Luddy - 10 / 10
>Despite this not being the traditional type of story we associate with Kiryu, Infinite Wealth is a fitting send-off to a legend of gaming. In the words of Kiryu, "Even if I'm not as strong as I once was, I'm still me. And I'm starting to think that's not so bad."
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Siliconera - Graham Russell - 9 / 10
>As overstuffed as it is, we didn't want Infinite Wealth to end. It's such a high-effort package with tons of heart, and it's hard not to let that endearing feel sand down some of the game's rough mechanical edges.
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Slant Magazine - Justin Clark - 4 / 5
>Infinite Wealth’s greatest accomplishment is how much of that work still involves a deep, eclectic sense of play.
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Spaziogames - Gianluca Arena - Italian - 8.8 / 10
>Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth is the golden bridge between the glorious past of the franchise and its bright future. It's a rich game and an epic RPG, a celebration of the videogame medium itself and a modern twist on both the Shenmue and the Earthbound games. It can be slow at times and it requires knowledge of characters and events from previous games, but it's still a monumental effort.
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Stevivor - Matt Gosper - 9.5 / 10
>Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is devoted to trying all-new things while still reserving time for celebrating its long and storied history.
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The Outerhaven Productions - Cody Perez - 4.5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth shows Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio and the entire Yakuza: Like a Dragon series at its finest. The best game in the series offers shocking and unbelievable content for players to experience across game modes like Dondoko Island, the brilliant and gut-wrenching story, and the intriguing new characters. Though it has some pacing issues here and there, and I still wish for slightly faster battles, this is the biggest, greatest, and most compelling adventure for Ichiban and Kiryu yet.
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Tom's Hardware Italia - Andrea Riviera - Italian - 8.5 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is a bit of a culmination of everything the Ryū Ga Gotoku series has offered over the years. From the gameplay to the story to the activities and characters, the team has tried its best to present fans with a complete and level-headed experience, often succeeding and sometimes leaving a little bitter taste in our mouths due to some choices, especially narrative ones, that have not always convinced us.
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VG247 - Mark Warren - 5 / 5
>It’s a game about finding out who your mates are, and that they’ll be there for you no matter whether you need a good laugh, a telling off or a helping hand.
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VGC - Jordan Middler - 5 / 5
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is one of the best RPGs we've played in years. Excellent combat, a wonderful cast of characters, and a willingness to be incredibly weird make it absolutely unmissable. Not only that, but it's so full to the brim with things to do, we could have probably spent another three weeks with it and not finished everything.
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VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 9 / 10
>Infinite Wealth honours its dying dragon and rising star with a Hawaiian platter of side stories, memoirs, and dynamic combat.
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WellPlayed - Mark Isaacson - 9.5 / 10
>Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth wears its title on its sleeve, a seemingly endless amount of content to explore wrapped in an emotional and entertaining story. It's Like A Dragon at its very, unique best.
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WhatIfGaming - Hristijan Pavlovski - 10 / 10
>Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth elevates the series to new heights. It takes existing ideas from the series, and adds layers of complexity, engaging content, and charm on top of it to create an unforgettable experience that walks a fine line between earnestly dramatic moments, and over-the-top hilarity. Ichiban Kasuga is one of the best protagonists in gaming, and I can't wait to see where Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio takes him next.
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Worth Playing - Chris "Atom" DeAngelus - 9.5 / 10
>Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth is an overall fantastic entry in the franchise. Stuffed to the gills with content, there isn't a more fully packaged RPG on the market. The plot is charming and heartfelt, the characters are lovable, and the gameplay incredibly fun. It doesn't matter if you're a longtime Kiryu fan or jumped into the franchise with Kasuga; it's everything a Like a Dragon game should be.
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Xbox Achievements - Richard Walker - 87%
>After a bit of a difficult start, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth soon manages to hit the gas, its story proving an engaging affair amid an ocean of mini-games and other distractions. This is a massive game, but one you'll want to dive headfirst into.
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XboxEra - Jared Tracton - 9 / 10
>It’s not often that I’ll sit down and enjoy a game throughout the entirety of my playthrough. Even the best reviewed games will have parts of it that exist simply to extend the games length for no real reason (I’m looking at you, GTAV). Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth opens 2024 with a bang, showcasing the best of what the series has to offer and more.
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eXputer - Usama Mehmood - 4.5 / 5
>Like a Dragon Infinite Wealth is a JRPG powerhouse, delivering one of the most endearing stories to date and an aspiring open-world design.
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Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - OpenCritic Review Thread
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is rated 'Fair' after being reviewed by 58 critics, with an overall average score of 70. It's ranked in the bottom 40% of games and recommended by 51% of critics.
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Platforms:
- PlayStation 5 (Dec 7, 2023)
- Xbox Series X/S (Dec 7, 2023)
- PC (Dec 7, 2023)
Trailer:
Developer: Massive Entertainment
Publisher: Ubisoft Entertainment
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 70 average - 51% recommended - 58 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
ACG - Jeremy Penter - Buy
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
Atarita - Eren Eroğlu - Turkish - 75 / 100
>Despite the fact that Avatar Frontiers of Pandora manages to captivate the player from the very first minute with its masterfully designed world, it misses its great potential by having serious shortcomings within itself.
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Attack of the Fanboy - J.R. Waugh - 3.5 / 5
>The idea of Avatar being mixed into this formula is great, and when you're flying on your ikran, it's an intoxicating experience, even if aspects of the combat and game stability leave something to be desired.
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But Why Tho? - Kate Sanchez - 8 / 10
>Even with its faults, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a stunning visual achievement, much like the films on which it's inspired. Only here, a rich narrative pulls you deep into the Na'vi and explores more tangible means of fighting back against a colonial power that offers a cathartic experience... Blow up a pipeline, save an animal, and explore the vast world of Pandora. That's a heck of a way to close out a year.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 4.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a big misstep and feels like Ubisoft's biggest missed opportunity in a while. Not even the fantastical and majestic sights of Pandora and some engaging hunts can cure the buggy, unoptimised product presented to the world. Offering a dull story while it trips and stumbles on delicate themes, it too is simply a confused formula of everything you've seen before from other titles, almost all of it ill-fitting. Two adaptations under their belt and it seems Ubisoft just can't get that voyage of Pandora right.
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ComicBook.com - Cade Onder - 4 / 5
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora successfully immerses players into James Cameron's multi-billion dollar franchise. It's easily one of the most beautiful sci-fi worlds I have ever had the pleasure of exploring and ensures that when it's threatened, you'll feel the desire to protect it.
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Cultured Vultures - Jimmy Donnellan - 6 / 10
>While it has some novel ideas, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora's extremely repetitive quest design, underwhelming progression, and wholly monotonous gear system make it one of the most forgettable open world games of 2023.
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Destructoid - Steven Mills - 9 / 10
>If you walked away from Avatar wishing a world like Pandora actually existed out there, here you go. This is that world. Seeing Pandora is one thing, but being able to scale its massive treetops, soar high above its floating mountains on an Ikran, and traverse its wide open plains on the back of a Direhorse is really something special. This is the best version of Avatar yet.
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Digital Trends - Giovanni Colantonio - 3 / 5
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora can't put its human nature aside long enough to properly honor the Na'vi.
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Entertainment Geekly - Luis Alvaro - 3.5 / 5
>"Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora" has moments of brilliance, particularly in exploration, platforming, and immersive world-building, but are tempered by inconsistencies in combat and visual polish.
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Eurogamer.pt - Adolfo Soares - Portuguese - 3 / 5
>This was a journey full of ups and downs while exploring Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. At first, the experience proved to be discouraging with a disconcerting entrance, but along the way it proved to be fun, having won me over with the visual exuberance of the scenarios, the game mechanics and the freedom to move around the map. However, the disappointment ended up being felt in the final part, with a poorly constructed ending, especially due to the poor quality of the cinematic scenes, something that should be at a higher level for such a reputable franchise.
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GAMES.CH - Benjamin Braun - German - 75%
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a nice open world action game. But beside the great and detailed graphics there is nothing worse or better than solid. That might be enough, if you love the movies, but it's not enough to make Ubisoft's Avatar game a need to buy for action fans in general.
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GGRecon - Dani Cross - 3 / 5
>There are lots of design choices I didn’t mesh with in Frontiers of Pandora. I love the world, but barriers blocked me from fully immersing myself in it, and it’s littered with activities and outposts plucked straight out of the 2010s and planted in Pandora’s soil.
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Game Informer - Matt Miller - 7.8 / 10
>Even so, I found a lot to love in Frontiers of Pandora, including the welcome addition of two-player online cooperative play, which lets players enjoy the game with a friend. With time, the many interlocking features started to make sense, and I pushed past any frustrations to find a remarkably large and rewarding game. Enter Pandora’s vast wilderness with patience and a willingness for a measured march to understanding, and I suspect you’ll uncover what I did – a flawed but still praiseworthy addition to this growing science fiction universe.
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Game Rant - Adrian Morales - 2.5 / 5
>In the face of an IP filled with rich themes with something important to say, Frontiers of Pandora ignores the point entirely and goes on to have a gameplay loop where players spend most of their time killing otherwise docile animals to make arbitrary numbers go up so they can be as immortal as possible within the confines of the game. This would be business as usual for any other open-world gameplay loop, but it's embarrassingly ironic and tone-deaf for an Avatar game. Sure, anti-pollution sentiments are there because it's impossible to make an Avatar spin-off without them, but they're there superficially and treated as a checkbox for players to complete - ultimately ringing hollow. A betrayal of Cameron’s themes with the Avatar IP, seemingly stapled together as an attempt to get a slice of the highest-grossing film of all time’s pie, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora isn’t just generic; it is downright cynical.
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GamePro - Annika Bavendiek - German - Unscored
>At some point, however, I switched off internally during the trivial story sections. And even though the game promotes free exploration well, I still caught myself working through the points on the map every now and then. So, for me, Ubisoft doesn't completely resolve this part of its formula, but it's on the right track.
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GameSpot - Phil Hornshaw - 8 / 10
>Though it includes a lot of familiar open-world elements, a minimalistic user interface, fun movement mechanics, and a gorgeous setting make it a blast to explore Pandora.
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Gameblog - KiKiToes - French - 7 / 10
>All in all, an excellent adaptation, but also a good open-world action game.
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Gamepressure - Giancarlo Saldana - 7.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels powerful when it lets you connect with nature as it offers you something unique only the world of Avatar can show. Once you leave the warmth of its natural beauty behind, what you are left with is just another open-world game with an overworked story of saving the world.
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Gamer Guides - Ben Chard - 80 / 100
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a gorgeous open-world adventure that, despite having some similarities to Ubisoft’s own Far Cry, has its own identity that begs you to explore every nook and cranny. That exploration won’t be for everyone, but for those of you tired of having your hands held, there’s a lot to see, do, and enjoy.
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GamesRadar+ - Leon Hurley - 3.5 / 5
>A decent, if unspectacular take, on an alien Far Cry that uses its source material well to create an engaging world to explore.
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GamingBolt - Ravi Sinha - 8 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora may not be for those suffering from open-world fatigue, but it delivers an immersive experience for fans with some solid gameplay and storytelling.
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GamingTrend - David Flynn, Ron Burke - 80 / 100
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora has some excellent mechanical depth let down by repetitive missions and a very safe story. When you're flowing through the environment taking out RDA soldiers with volleys of arrows, it feels fantastic. Unfortunately, the game doesn't provide many opportunities to use the full breadth of its systems. Still, it's drop dead gorgeous and very fun for what it is.
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Geek Culture - Jake Su - 7.8 / 10
>As far as we are concerned, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is more than a serviceable open-world action-adventure experience, made better for fans who cannot get enough of James Cameron’s masterful sci-fi franchise. That said, for an adventure on a distant moon, it continually hints at a potential to do things differently and with a dose of freshness, but retreats into well-trodden territory to bring us crashing back to Earth. There is always going to be a fascination with the Na’vi, but you just might find yourself backing the RDA this time around.
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God is a Geek - Mick Fraser - 8.5 / 10
>It's not without its flaws, but Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is still one of Ubisoft's best games of recent years.
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Hobby Consolas - Daniel Quesada - Spanish - 87 / 100
>It doesn't break the mold in its gameplay proposal, but Avatar Frontiers of Pandora is an amazing recreation of this cinematic universe, with gameplay and narrative moments that will impact you.
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IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora features a stunning alien world to explore, but doesn’t contain as many genuine surprises as other modern open-worlds.
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INDIANTVCZ - Filip Kraucher - Czech - 4 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora held all the cards and, at least from our perspective, squandered them all. This reskinned Far Cry is a mediocrity gallery reflecting the current AAA production stuck in the last decade. The Snowdrop engine does help cover up some visible flaws, but when there's a lack of polished plot, quests, and meaningful gameplay, players will figure it out sooner or later. So, while Frontiers of Pandora may not rank among the worst games of the year, it is definitely one of those games that will soon be forgotten with all the mediocrity.
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Kakuchopurei - Alleef Ashaari - 50 / 100
>An Avatar game was a strange choice to become a game from the beginning, and adding the Far Cry formula to it has resulted in a game that's not good but not too bad either; it's just mediocre. Hopefully, Massive Entertainment's next game, Star Wars Outlaws, looks to have higher prospects of being a better game and not just another uninspired game based on a famous IP. Avatar Frontiers Of Pandora is truly only for fans who just want more from James Cameron's Avatar, but not those looking for a great open-world game to sink their teeth into.
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Multiplayer First - Vitor Braz - 9.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a mesmerizing journey into a place that is very much unlike anything out there. It’s fantasy and technology boldly clashing and offering a sprawling, remarkable world that deserves all sorts of acclaim. The more you explore, the more you realize just how amazing this planet is, the windy peaks making for some jaw-dropping vistas, the parkour navigation and Ikran flying a contrast that ironically couldn’t work any better.
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One More Game - Chris Garcia - Wait
>While the FarCry formula is certainly evident in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, the game does just enough to make it stand out from similar titles that simply tick off boxes in the open-world formula. The world is beautiful and interesting enough to explore, and Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment have done well to translate this IP into a worthwhile title for some players, especially fans of the franchise.
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Oyungezer Online - Oguz Erdogan - Turkish - 7.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is an extraordinary visual experience, allowing you to breathe in the atmosphere of a living planet. However, the scarcity and lack of variety in the action makes the pace very slow. Still, if you're a fan of the Far Cry games, you should give it a chance just for the gorgeous landscapes.
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PCGamesN - Anthony McGlynn - 6 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora gives you the strength and stamina of the Na'vi, but not the consistency and depth of their homeworld. Unless you're an avid fan who wants every morsel of storytelling, Ubisoft's latest open world doesn't always justify the trip.
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PlayStation Universe - Simon Sayers - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora offers a visually appealing open world that fans of the movies will certainly enjoy. That said, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is routinely held back by repetitive gameplay, while a lack of enemy types and weapons stops the combat from being quite as enjoyable as it could have been. Technically impressive and satisfying for the most part, it's also clear that Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels essentially just like another Far Cry game from a game design point of view, rather than the sort of entirely fresh offering one would expect from a modern day Avatar video game.
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PowerUp! - Adam Mathew - Liked
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is quite a bit better than I thought it was going to be, on the whole. Despite some half-baked mechanics and ideas, I still had a blast shredding outposts in this overwhelming, sumptuous sandbox.
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Press Start - James Mitchell - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora successfully brings the world of Pandora to video games in a big way. It's lush and vibrant and without a doubt one of the most luxuriant open worlds that Ubisoft has ever created. Its gameplay, on the other hand, is lacking the spark that makes great open worlds sing. Fans of the franchise will absolutely adore exploring everything this previously unexplored side of Pandora has to offer, just don't expect it to reinvent the wheel.
-------------
Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A beautiful open world world can't make up for a dull rebellion that succumbs to Ubisoft's by the numbers method.
-------------
SECTOR.sk - Peter Dragula - Slovak - 5.5 / 10
>Overall, Avatar is a strangely designed game that offers something different than you would expect from an action-adventure game in this world. Not an action adventure, it's more of a survival effort and slow stealth combat. But in no area is it fully fleshed out. But the world itself is handled very nicely.
-------------
Screen Rant - Ben Brosofsky - 4 / 5
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a staggering sensory experience, and the consistent beauty of its world goes hand-in-hand with an engaging story and meaningful progress for Ubisoft's approach to open-world game design. Its weakest points are the areas where it doesn't go back to the drawing board, although repetitive elements go down more easily as part of a package that stuns in so many ways. A flight to an alien moon might never be in the cards for most of Earth's inhabitants, but Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is, and it might just be the next best thing.
-------------
Shacknews - Lucas White - 5 / 10
>It helps that you can see what you're doing when you're driving around a desert.
-------------
Siliconera - Cory Dinkel - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora has so much heart and soul in it's world and lore. Unfortunately, the core gameplay subtracts from this a bit too much to ignore.
-------------
Sirus Gaming - Lexuzze Tablante - 9 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora deserves recognition for staying faithful to its source material. Fans of the Avatar franchise will love what Massive Entertainment created. Despite the flat and predictable story, I enjoyed the significant amount of content it offered, plus the co-op feature where I got to experience the entire campaign with my wife. Frontiers of Pandora showcased the beautiful world created in the Avatar universe by James Cameron perfectly, its incredible flora and fauna, and the scenic views from atop the Hallelujah Mountains.
-------------
Skill Up - Ralph Panebianco - Unscored
>Video Review - Quote not available -------------
Slant Magazine - Justin Clark - 2.5 / 5
>Frontiers of Pandora is, in essence, just another Far Cry experience—one with breathtaking art direction and a thoughtful portrayal of an alien culture, but a Far Cry experience nonetheless. It’s a tired formula applied to a property that’s capable of showing us much more. This game’s Pandora is a beautiful place to visit, but living there makes for a boring existence.
-------------
Spaziogames - Francesco Corica - Italian - 7 / 10
>Even if we appreciate how Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora tries to give fans an experience similar to living the movies in first-person, all its excessive problems serve to point out that, in case we need to say it, developing a compelling videogame is way different from making a successful movie.
-------------
Stevivor - Steve Wright - 5 / 10
>This is textbook average entertainment; it won't disappoint, but it certainly won't excite.
-------------
TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 5 / 10
>With a story that follows predictable beats, mechanics that provide zero gameplay benefit, and murky visuals, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora delivers an extremely underwhelming experience. PC players be warned of many technical issues.
-------------
The Game Crater - Jayden Hellyar - 8 / 10
>What Ubisoft Massive has accomplished is nothing short of incredible. While you may come away forgetting the villain’s name or even the reason why you were exploring this world, you’ll never forget what it felt like to fly your Ikran for the first time or step out into the lush world and soak it all in. Frontiers of Pandora is perhaps the best example of a game that exemplifies the saying, “It’s not the destination, but the journey that matters.
-------------
The Games Machine - Emanuele Feronato - Italian - 8.8 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a huge game in which exploration plays a very important role, as every corner of the Western Frontier is full of plants to catalog, ingredients to collect and materials to use to improve our equipment. The fights are very addictive and it is essential to combine stealth actions with raids based on the surprise effect. The proprietary Snowdrop engine offers us a beautiful graphic representation, which combined with a quality soundtrack guarantee an almost cinematic experience. Those looking for non-stop action might find a few too many dead moments, but it remains an open world shooter adventure of extreme quality despite never trying to introduce any novelty to the genre.
-------------
Twinfinite - Keenan McCall - 3.5 / 5
>I really wanted to like Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora more than I did, but the game’s various shortcomings make it difficult to love entirely. The exceptional graphics and brief moments of greatness make it worthwhile for Avatar fans, but most anyone else is likely to be frustrated by how close it comes to doing something special only to fall shy of its potential.
-------------
VG247 - Fran J. Ruiz - 4 / 5
>Like it or not, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels like the perfect companion piece to James Cameron’s movies: it’s big but often intimate. Savage but calm. Familiar but charming. Even without playing a single minute of it, you should know whether it’s something you want to play. If you decide to make the jump, I suggest letting go of cheap analogies and using Na’vi instincts first and gamer brain second.
-------------
Vamers - Edward Swardt - Essential
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora more than lives up to the legacy of its cinematic counterpart. In fact, the title elevates itself to the ranks of exceptional and essential gaming - an incredible feat for a movie franchise tie-in. Ubisoft, often recognised for their prowess in open-world gameplay, absolutely exceeds expectations with this title. While its foundation may draw parallels to the Far Cry series, the game's unique setting, narrative depth, and immersive gameplay set it apart as a groundbreaking experience.
-------------
VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 8 / 10
>Look past Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora’s dull story and you’ll find spectacle and freedom lurking in its Na’vi customs and breathtaking ecosystems.
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WayTooManyGames - Leonardo Faria - 8 / 10
>Getting lost in the absolutely gorgeous world of Pandora and having fun with the brutal, tribal-like combat make up for the weak story and the fact that, at the end of the day, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora does suffer from some of the traditional Ubisoft open world tropes.
-------------
We Got This Covered - David James - 4 / 5
>'Frontiers of Pandora' may occasionally feel like a reskinned 'Far Cry', but it absolutely nails the ambience and atmosphere of James Cameron's eco-scifi world. One of those rare licensed games that retroactively improves the source material it's based on.Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
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Worth Playing - Cody Medellin - 6.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is going to appeal the most to die-hard fans of the film series. The ability to ride some of the creatures of Pandora and take in the lush surroundings of the moon are more than enough to satisfy those who want to wander around and soak in everything. For everyone else, the game is simply decent. The missions are very hit-and-miss in quality and execution, while the ability to use human and Na'vi weapons isn't as appealing as the developers may have expected. The world looks gorgeous, but navigating it isn't that intuitive due to a poor map and navigation system, and that also goes for other elements, like hunting and gathering. The game isn't terrible or as bleak as the first title, but you'll need to temper expectations to get some enjoyment out of Frontiers of Pandora.
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XGN.nl - Ralph Beentjes - Dutch - 6.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a successful movie adaptation in the sense that it offers very smooth gameplay and a beautiful world to explore. It's also a very rewarding experience to explore Pandora. When you are fighting the RDA or making your way through the world, you feel very much a Na'vi, but all the local terminlogy can be very confusing. Unfortunately, frequent framedrops and crashes somewhat spoiled our experience on PC, preventing the game from delivering the magical experience it could have.
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XboxEra - Jesse Norris - 8.8 / 10
>A delight for fans of Avatar, this game is so damned good that even one apathetic to the IP like me couldn’t help but fall in love with it.
-------------
Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
Platforms:
- PlayStation 5 (Dec 7, 2023)
Trailer:
Publisher: Ubisoft Entertainment
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 69 average - 48% recommended - 48 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Atarita - Eren Eroğlu - Turkish - 75 / 100
>Despite the fact that Avatar Frontiers of Pandora manages to captivate the player from the very first minute with its masterfully designed world, it misses its great potential by having serious shortcomings within itself.
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Attack of the Fanboy - J.R. Waugh - 3.5 / 5
>The idea of Avatar being mixed into this formula is great, and when you're flying on your ikran, it's an intoxicating experience, even if aspects of the combat and game stability leave something to be desired.
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But Why Tho? - Kate Sanchez - 8 / 10
>Even with its faults, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a stunning visual achievement, much like the films on which it's inspired. Only here, a rich narrative pulls you deep into the Na'vi and explores more tangible means of fighting back against a colonial power that offers a cathartic experience... Blow up a pipeline, save an animal, and explore the vast world of Pandora. That's a heck of a way to close out a year.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Charlie Kelly - 4.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a big misstep and feels like Ubisoft's biggest missed opportunity in a while. Not even the fantastical and majestic sights of Pandora and some engaging hunts can cure the buggy, unoptimised product presented to the world. Offering a dull story while it trips and stumbles on delicate themes, it too is simply a confused formula of everything you've seen before from other titles, almost all of it ill-fitting. Two adaptations under their belt and it seems Ubisoft just can't get that voyage of Pandora right.
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Cultured Vultures - Jimmy Donnellan - 6 / 10
>While it has some novel ideas, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora's extremely repetitive quest design, underwhelming progression, and wholly monotonous gear system make it one of the most forgettable open world games of 2023.
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Destructoid - Steven Mills - 9 / 10
>If you walked away from Avatar wishing a world like Pandora actually existed out there, here you go. This is that world. Seeing Pandora is one thing, but being able to scale its massive treetops, soar high above its floating mountains on an Ikran, and traverse its wide open plains on the back of a Direhorse is really something special. This is the best version of Avatar yet.
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Digital Trends - Giovanni Colantonio - 3 / 5
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora can't put its human nature aside long enough to properly honor the Na'vi.
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GAMES.CH - Benjamin Braun - German - 75%
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a nice open world action game. But beside the great and detailed graphics there is nothing worse or better than solid. That might be enough, if you love the movies, but it's not enough to make Ubisoft's Avatar game a need to buy for action fans in general.
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GGRecon - Dani Cross - 3 / 5
>There are lots of design choices I didn’t mesh with in Frontiers of Pandora. I love the world, but barriers blocked me from fully immersing myself in it, and it’s littered with activities and outposts plucked straight out of the 2010s and planted in Pandora’s soil.
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Game Informer - Matt Miller - 7.8 / 10
>Even so, I found a lot to love in Frontiers of Pandora, including the welcome addition of two-player online cooperative play, which lets players enjoy the game with a friend. With time, the many interlocking features started to make sense, and I pushed past any frustrations to find a remarkably large and rewarding game. Enter Pandora’s vast wilderness with patience and a willingness for a measured march to understanding, and I suspect you’ll uncover what I did – a flawed but still praiseworthy addition to this growing science fiction universe.
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Game Rant - Adrian Morales - 2.5 / 5
>In the face of an IP filled with rich themes with something important to say, Frontiers of Pandora ignores the point entirely and goes on to have a gameplay loop where players spend most of their time killing otherwise docile animals to make arbitrary numbers go up so they can be as immortal as possible within the confines of the game. This would be business as usual for any other open-world gameplay loop, but it's embarrassingly ironic and tone-deaf for an Avatar game. Sure, anti-pollution sentiments are there because it's impossible to make an Avatar spin-off without them, but they're there superficially and treated as a checkbox for players to complete - ultimately ringing hollow. A betrayal of Cameron’s themes with the Avatar IP, seemingly stapled together as an attempt to get a slice of the highest-grossing film of all time’s pie, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora isn’t just generic; it is downright cynical.
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GamePro - Annika Bavendiek - German - Unscored
>At some point, however, I switched off internally during the trivial story sections. And even though the game promotes free exploration well, I still caught myself working through the points on the map every now and then. So, for me, Ubisoft doesn't completely resolve this part of its formula, but it's on the right track.
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GameSpot - Phil Hornshaw - 8 / 10
>Though it includes a lot of familiar open-world elements, a minimalistic user interface, fun movement mechanics, and a gorgeous setting make it a blast to explore Pandora.
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>Quote not yet available
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Gamer Guides - Ben Chard - 80 / 100
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a gorgeous open-world adventure that, despite having some similarities to Ubisoft’s own Far Cry, has its own identity that begs you to explore every nook and cranny. That exploration won’t be for everyone, but for those of you tired of having your hands held, there’s a lot to see, do, and enjoy.
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GamesRadar+ - Leon Hurley - 3.5 / 5
>A decent, if unspectacular take, on an alien Far Cry that uses its source material well to create an engaging world to explore.
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GamingTrend - David Flynn, Ron Burke - 80 / 100
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora has some excellent mechanical depth let down by repetitive missions and a very safe story. When you're flowing through the environment taking out RDA soldiers with volleys of arrows, it feels fantastic. Unfortunately, the game doesn't provide many opportunities to use the full breadth of its systems. Still, it's drop dead gorgeous and very fun for what it is.
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Geek Culture - Jake Su - 7.8 / 10
>As far as we are concerned, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is more than a serviceable open-world action-adventure experience, made better for fans who cannot get enough of James Cameron’s masterful sci-fi franchise. That said, for an adventure on a distant moon, it continually hints at a potential to do things differently and with a dose of freshness, but retreats into well-trodden territory to bring us crashing back to Earth. There is always going to be a fascination with the Na’vi, but you just might find yourself backing the RDA this time around.
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God is a Geek - Mick Fraser - 8.5 / 10
>It's not without its flaws, but Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is still one of Ubisoft's best games of recent years.
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Hobby Consolas - Daniel Quesada - Spanish - 87 / 100
>It doesn't break the mold in its gameplay proposal, but Avatar Frontiers of Pandora is an amazing recreation of this cinematic universe, with gameplay and narrative moments that will impact you.
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IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora features a stunning alien world to explore, but doesn’t contain as many genuine surprises as other modern open-worlds.
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INDIANTVCZ - Filip Kraucher - Czech - 4 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora held all the cards and, at least from our perspective, squandered them all. This reskinned Far Cry is a mediocrity gallery reflecting the current AAA production stuck in the last decade. The Snowdrop engine does help cover up some visible flaws, but when there's a lack of polished plot, quests, and meaningful gameplay, players will figure it out sooner or later. So, while Frontiers of Pandora may not rank among the worst games of the year, it is definitely one of those games that will soon be forgotten with all the mediocrity.
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Multiplayer First - Vitor Braz - 9.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a mesmerizing journey into a place that is very much unlike anything out there. It’s fantasy and technology boldly clashing and offering a sprawling, remarkable world that deserves all sorts of acclaim. The more you explore, the more you realize just how amazing this planet is, the windy peaks making for some jaw-dropping vistas, the parkour navigation and Ikran flying a contrast that ironically couldn’t work any better.
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One More Game - Chris Garcia - Wait
>While the FarCry formula is certainly evident in Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, the game does just enough to make it stand out from similar titles that simply tick off boxes in the open-world formula. The world is beautiful and interesting enough to explore, and Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment have done well to translate this IP into a worthwhile title for some players, especially fans of the franchise.
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Oyungezer Online - Oguz Erdogan - Turkish - 7.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is an extraordinary visual experience, allowing you to breathe in the atmosphere of a living planet. However, the scarcity and lack of variety in the action makes the pace very slow. Still, if you're a fan of the Far Cry games, you should give it a chance just for the gorgeous landscapes.
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PCGamesN - Anthony McGlynn - 6 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora gives you the strength and stamina of the Na'vi, but not the consistency and depth of their homeworld. Unless you're an avid fan who wants every morsel of storytelling, Ubisoft's latest open world doesn't always justify the trip.
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PlayStation Universe - Simon Sayers - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora offers a visually appealing open world that fans of the movies will certainly enjoy. That said, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is routinely held back by repetitive gameplay, while a lack of enemy types and weapons stops the combat from being quite as enjoyable as it could have been. Technically impressive and satisfying for the most part, it's also clear that Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels essentially just like another Far Cry game from a game design point of view, rather than the sort of entirely fresh offering one would expect from a modern day Avatar video game.
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PowerUp! - Adam Mathew - Liked
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is quite a bit better than I thought it was going to be, on the whole. Despite some half-baked mechanics and ideas, I still had a blast shredding outposts in this overwhelming, sumptuous sandbox.
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Press Start - James Mitchell - 7 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora successfully brings the world of Pandora to video games in a big way. It's lush and vibrant and without a doubt one of the most luxuriant open worlds that Ubisoft has ever created. Its gameplay, on the other hand, is lacking the spark that makes great open worlds sing. Fans of the franchise will absolutely adore exploring everything this previously unexplored side of Pandora has to offer, just don't expect it to reinvent the wheel.
-------------
Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Ed Thorn - Unscored
>A beautiful open world world can't make up for a dull rebellion that succumbs to Ubisoft's by the numbers method.
-------------
SECTOR.sk - Peter Dragula - Slovak - 5.5 / 10
>Overall, Avatar is a strangely designed game that offers something different than you would expect from an action-adventure game in this world. Not an action adventure, it's more of a survival effort and slow stealth combat. But in no area is it fully fleshed out. But the world itself is handled very nicely.
-------------
Screen Rant - Ben Brosofsky - 4 / 5
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a staggering sensory experience, and the consistent beauty of its world goes hand-in-hand with an engaging story and meaningful progress for Ubisoft's approach to open-world game design. Its weakest points are the areas where it doesn't go back to the drawing board, although repetitive elements go down more easily as part of a package that stuns in so many ways. A flight to an alien moon might never be in the cards for most of Earth's inhabitants, but Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is, and it might just be the next best thing.
-------------
Shacknews - Lucas White - 5 / 10
>It helps that you can see what you're doing when you're driving around a desert.
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Sirus Gaming - Lexuzze Tablante - 9 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora deserves recognition for staying faithful to its source material. Fans of the Avatar franchise will love what Massive Entertainment created. Despite the flat and predictable story, I enjoyed the significant amount of content it offered, plus the co-op feature where I got to experience the entire campaign with my wife. Frontiers of Pandora showcased the beautiful world created in the Avatar universe by James Cameron perfectly, its incredible flora and fauna, and the scenic views from atop the Hallelujah Mountains.
-------------
Slant Magazine - Justin Clark - 2.5 / 5
>Frontiers of Pandora is, in essence, just another Far Cry experience—one with breathtaking art direction and a thoughtful portrayal of an alien culture, but a Far Cry experience nonetheless. It’s a tired formula applied to a property that’s capable of showing us much more. This game’s Pandora is a beautiful place to visit, but living there makes for a boring existence.
-------------
Spaziogames - Francesco Corica - Italian - 7 / 10
>Even if we appreciate how Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora tries to give fans an experience similar to living the movies in first-person, all its excessive problems serve to point out that, in case we need to say it, developing a compelling videogame is way different from making a successful movie.
-------------
Stevivor - Steve Wright - 5 / 10
>This is textbook average entertainment; it won't disappoint, but it certainly won't excite.
-------------
TechRaptor - Andrew Stretch - 5 / 10
>With a story that follows predictable beats, mechanics that provide zero gameplay benefit, and murky visuals, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora delivers an extremely underwhelming experience. PC players be warned of many technical issues.
-------------
The Game Crater - Jayden Hellyar - 8 / 10
>What Ubisoft Massive has accomplished is nothing short of incredible. While you may come away forgetting the villain’s name or even the reason why you were exploring this world, you’ll never forget what it felt like to fly your Ikran for the first time or step out into the lush world and soak it all in. Frontiers of Pandora is perhaps the best example of a game that exemplifies the saying, “It’s not the destination, but the journey that matters.
-------------
The Games Machine - Emanuele Feronato - Italian - 8.8 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a huge game in which exploration plays a very important role, as every corner of the Western Frontier is full of plants to catalog, ingredients to collect and materials to use to improve our equipment. The fights are very addictive and it is essential to combine stealth actions with raids based on the surprise effect. The proprietary Snowdrop engine offers us a beautiful graphic representation, which combined with a quality soundtrack guarantee an almost cinematic experience. Those looking for non-stop action might find a few too many dead moments, but it remains an open world shooter adventure of extreme quality despite never trying to introduce any novelty to the genre.
-------------
Twinfinite - Keenan McCall - 3.5 / 5
>I really wanted to like Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora more than I did, but the game’s various shortcomings make it difficult to love entirely. The exceptional graphics and brief moments of greatness make it worthwhile for Avatar fans, but most anyone else is likely to be frustrated by how close it comes to doing something special only to fall shy of its potential.
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VG247 - Fran J. Ruiz - 4 / 5
>Like it or not, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora feels like the perfect companion piece to James Cameron’s movies: it’s big but often intimate. Savage but calm. Familiar but charming. Even without playing a single minute of it, you should know whether it’s something you want to play. If you decide to make the jump, I suggest letting go of cheap analogies and using Na’vi instincts first and gamer brain second.
-------------
Vamers - Edward Swardt - Essential
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora more than lives up to the legacy of its cinematic counterpart. In fact, the title elevates itself to the ranks of exceptional and essential gaming - an incredible feat for a movie franchise tie-in. Ubisoft, often recognised for their prowess in open-world gameplay, absolutely exceeds expectations with this title. While its foundation may draw parallels to the Far Cry series, the game's unique setting, narrative depth, and immersive gameplay set it apart as a groundbreaking experience.
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VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 8 / 10
>Look past Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora’s dull story and you’ll find spectacle and freedom lurking in its Na’vi customs and breathtaking ecosystems.
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WayTooManyGames - Leonardo Faria - 8 / 10
>Getting lost in the absolutely gorgeous world of Pandora and having fun with the brutal, tribal-like combat make up for the weak story and the fact that, at the end of the day, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora does suffer from some of the traditional Ubisoft open world tropes.
-------------
We Got This Covered - David James - 4 / 5
>'Frontiers of Pandora' may occasionally feel like a reskinned 'Far Cry', but it absolutely nails the ambience and atmosphere of James Cameron's eco-scifi world. One of those rare licensed games that retroactively improves the source material it's based on.Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
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Worth Playing - Cody Medellin - 6.5 / 10
>Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is going to appeal the most to die-hard fans of the film series. The ability to ride some of the creatures of Pandora and take in the lush surroundings of the moon are more than enough to satisfy those who want to wander around and soak in everything. For everyone else, the game is simply decent. The missions are very hit-and-miss in quality and execution, while the ability to use human and Na'vi weapons isn't as appealing as the developers may have expected. The world looks gorgeous, but navigating it isn't that intuitive due to a poor map and navigation system, and that also goes for other elements, like hunting and gathering. The game isn't terrible or as bleak as the first title, but you'll need to temper expectations to get some enjoyment out of Frontiers of Pandora.
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XboxEra - Jesse Norris - 8.8 / 10
>A delight for fans of Avatar, this game is so damned good that even one apathetic to the IP like me couldn’t help but fall in love with it.
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SteamWorld Build - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: SteamWorld Build
Platforms:
- PC (Dec 1, 2023)
- Nintendo Switch (Dec 1, 2023)
- Xbox Series X/S (Dec 1, 2023)
- PlayStation 5 (Dec 1, 2023)
- Xbox One (Dec 1, 2023)
- PlayStation 4 (Dec 1, 2023)
Trailers:
Developer: The Station
Publisher: Thunderful Publishing
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 77 average - 78% recommended - 38 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
AnaitGames - Víctor Manuel Martínez García - Spanish - 5 / 10
>The "steamification" of city management ends up having a shorter fuse than necessary, losing the medium-term interest that seems natural in its genre.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Victor Tan - 7.5 / 10
>SteamWorld Build sets up a fantastic environment for Wild West robot capitalism to thrive. You must create workers to build enough resources that support your mining operations, which in turn helps develop your city. Expand your operations above and below ground to get more workers and new resources. While there isn't anything ground-breaking in this game and it can be repetitive, it still offers good fun for people who enjoy city builders. If you are looking for a strategic challenge that makes you balance two types of city building, SteamWorld Build is a great game to try out.
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Entertainment Geekly - Luis Alvaro - 3.5 / 5
>Its early hours are a delightful exploration into a well-executed city-building mechanic, complemented by engaging underground mining operations.
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Game Informer - Kenneth Seward Jr. - 7 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a unique hybrid that entertains for a time. Its early hours are fun, thanks to how well it uses simplified genre staples to create a more arcade-friendly gameplay loop, a sentiment bolstered by a solid tutorial and intuitive control scheme. Regrettably, SteamWorld Build's campaign overstays its welcome. The lackluster story and rigid final objectives turn what was initially an engaging experience into a tedious grind.
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GameBlast - Alan Murilo Pereira Duque - Portuguese - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build fulfills its mission and delivers a fun construction game with the undeniable charm of the versatile and long-running SteamWorld franchise. A little more depth or challenge would be welcome, of course, but there will always be room for polished experiences that value fun and are capable of welcoming new players with excellence. Recommended.
-------------
>Despite its shortcomings, SteamWorld Build is a delightful foray into the world of robot cowboys, and there’s a bit of fun to be had with the building and dungeon crawling, even if the tinge of innovation is a little muted.
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GameLuster - Nirav Gandhi - 8 / 10
>Good for genre veterans and even better for newbies, Steamworld Build is a steamlined, silly, and smooth city-builder that's fun from the first foundation block to the last keystone.
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GamesCreed - Kurtis Seid - 4.2 / 5
>Steamworld Build has reasonable, average length load times when first starting up. It is impressive that it is seamless to switch between map times with no slowdown or bugs. However, outright crashing is still possible. This tends to happen when first opening a map or exiting back to the main menu. SteamWorld Build is a great sequel for those who liked the previous games in the series.
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GamesRadar+ - Sam Loveridge - 4 / 5
>SteamWorld Build is proof that the SteamWorld formula can be applied to almost any genre with its mix of city building and dungeon mining combining for quite the treat.
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GamingBolt - Ravi Sinha - 8 / 10
>Whether you're a fan of the series or looking for a well-made city-builder, SteamWorld Build has much to offer, even with the odd annoyance or two.
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Gert Lush Gaming - Jim Smale - 9 / 10
>They have effortlessly gone into a new genre and smashed it out of the park so much that it is just as accessible and addictive and a real treat as all the previous Steamworld games.
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God is a Geek - Chris White - 9 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a deeply compelling city management title that adds new mechanics all the time, keeping you hooked throughout.
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GuiltyBit - Anastasio Gijón - Spanish - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build" is an experience capable of enticing SimCity enthusiasts and followers of the Image & Form series. Unfortunately, it doesn't quite provide that silly dopamine rush that other games from their collection have achieved. Nevertheless, it's a solid proposal, sometimes even surprising, but it lacks that "something" to match up to its siblings.
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IGN - Jon Bolding - 7 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a simple but fun city builder cleverly combined with a dungeon-constructing miner that keeps things quick and casual.
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IGN Italy - Stefano Castelli - Italian - 8 / 10
>An interesting blend of two game mechanics that lacks a bit of creativity typical of the series yet overall works very well.
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Kakuchopurei - Xandria Morden - 90 / 100
>Every aspect of Steamworld Build feels meticulously designed. The goals are clearly emphasized so you don't get lost. Even dragging and dropping units is satisfying, and arranging paths or placing mining equipment functions perfectly well. The interaction between the above-ground and below-ground elements feels well-paced and thoughtfully designed. The familiar art style of the series shines through in every little detail, with its bright and eye-catching colours that make every aspect of the game absolutely loveable.
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La Orden del Pixel - Franco Borgogna - Spanish - Yes
>The SteamWorld universe expands with SteamWorld Build, a title that tackles city building in a very accessible way and adds mechanics that suit the genre very well. Those looking for something new within the franchise will hardly be disappointed and, for those who do not know it, it can be an interesting gateway.
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LadiesGamers.com - Paula Moore - Loved
>SteamWorld Build is a delightful game where you always work towards interesting goals. The combination of city building and mining work in tandem together extremely well. It’s a brilliant pairing of opposites, from the bright sunshine on the surface to popping into the mine, which is dank and dark, with the SteamWorld aesthetic tying it all together.
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New Game Network - Alex Varankou - 70 / 100
>SteamWorld Build is a sufficiently well-designed management game that is initially engaging with a good blend of underground exploration, but it eventually becomes a bit repetitive and is over rather quickly, without much motivation to start up another town.
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Nindie Spotlight - Justin Nation - 8 / 10
>Taking the SteamWorld franchise in a very different direction, mixing together city management with a bit of Dungeon Keeper
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Nintendo Life - Alex Olney - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a beautifully crafted game that seamlessly blends genres and ideas into a polished and premium package. There's not another management sim like it, but despite it running surprisingly well on Nintendo's system, it does leave us wanting for more reason to return to it. You're all but guaranteed to adore your first time through, but subsequent playthroughs may not carry the same magic. Still, with all that being said, this is undeniably a triumph of mechanical marvellousness.
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NoobFeed - Michael VanDine - 90 / 100
>SteamWorld Build has a charming aesthetic that keeps the player entertained and calm. By no means is this a title that's trying to showcase itself as some kind of serious hard-core strategy builder. Instead, you are welcome to have fun, to enjoy the character design, and to put a smile on your face. Using cartoonish robot charm mixed with a wild western settler vibe, there's something for everyone. Harkening back to the idea that a game should be relaxing and fun, SteamWorld Build is a superior choice for the builder genre.
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PC Gamer - Robin Valentine - 69 / 100
>Relaxing and brisk, but lacking in the substance needed to please genre fans and live up to the SteamWorld name.
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PCGamesN - Andrew Farrell - 6 / 10
>Steamworld Build delivers an entertaining blend of city building and dungeon crawling, but the two pillars don't completely gel and myriad annoyances taint the experience.
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Press Start - Kieron Verbrugge - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is another feather in the series' cap and another great distillation of genres into a friendly and wholly addictive package. The city building and mining halves come together effortlessly thanks to a pitch-perfect campaign, though with just a single scenario there's not a heap of longevity. The console version's awfully-small text also threatens to undo the good done by its superb controls, but in the end it remains another banger SteamWorld game.
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Pure Xbox - PJ O'Reilly - 9 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is yet another triumph from the maestros at Thunderful. Here we have a slick and addictive addition to a wonderful steampunk franchise that manages to meld elements from across the entire series into one cohesive whole. You've got wonderfully detailed city-building, addictive mining action and intense tower-defense aspects all in the mix here, and it tells you everything you need to know about this one that all of these elements work in harmony. Xbox Game Pass just netted itself another banger.
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Push Square - Jenny Jones - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a delightful and very satisfying foray into the city-building genre. The two gameplay modes complement each other well, offering two very different but equally pleasing ways to gain resources. While we do wish the story could've lasted a little bit longer, the addictive gameplay and slick presentation makes it very easy to recommend.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Katharine Castle - Unscored
>Its focus on balancing your economy's scales rather than turning a profit means the stakes are never that high in SteamWorld Build, but this is still a strong and distinctive twist on the upstairs/downstairs loop that made SteamWorld Dig so enticing a decade ago.
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SECTOR.sk - Branislav Kohút - Slovak - 8.5 / 10
>The new game from the steampunk universe with robots is city building spiced up with Dungeon Keeper-style mining. It works well. If you like to tinker with houses and resources, fun is guaranteed.
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Screen Rant - Deven McClure - 3.5 / 5
>Despite these missing quality of life features, SteamWorld Build still manages to be fairly addicting. Sense of progress is consistent enough even with occasional moments of waiting, and making discoveries feels rewarding enough to keep things engaging. The varied environments found throughout the game all feel uniquely designed, and accompanied by the blend of ambient sounds and satisfying soundtrack, the world as a whole comes off as intriguingly charming. Though it may not feel absolutely complete in its systems, SteamWorld Build is still a worthwhile venture for players looking for a creative new management sim.
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Siliconera - Elliot Gostick - 6 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a charming city builder with some fun ideas that just fails to capture what makes the genre compelling. PC version reviewed.
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TechRaptor - Rutledge Daugette - 9.5 / 10
>Great for both Citybuilder Noobs and Experts, SteamWorld Build offers a highly-replayable game with multiple maps and difficulties for players to take on.
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The Switch Effect - Richard Heaton - 4 / 5
>There’s a decent amount of content and lore behind the town that you’re building in and the characters. Put the three aspects together and the end product is a game that has a ton of content.
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TheGamer - Branden Lizardi - 4 / 5
>All in all, Steamworld Build is a great addition to the series, providing a unique but refined take on the city builder genre. Anyone looking for a more complicated, hardcore experience might find it a touch underwhelming, at least until the game really starts to find its feet. Even so, its forgiving nature and slow but consistent feed of gameplay mechanics make it especially appealing to more casual players or folks new to the genre.
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TheSixthAxis - Aran Suddi - 8 / 10
>SteamWorld Build will scratch that itch of town builder and dungeon crawler alike. It's an easy game to pick up and play, gradually introducing each layer of society and underground mining at a steady pace. A few elements could be improved to help levels flow better, but overall it's a very good experience that digs up yet another new genre for the SteamWorld franchise.
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>SteamWorld Build is an excellent addition to the franchise. The management isn’t too hard for you to learn and doesn’t go out of its way to become challenging. This is thanks to SteamWorld Build not punishing the player with endless tabs, unlike other management sims. The cast of characters’ voices and designs are delightful and well-made for the game. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. The story isn’t complex, which makes a nice change as I find too many games are trying to make their story too philosophical or so complicated that I end up looking at a wiki to grasp some understanding. > >The mining aspect of SteamWorld Build is where I spent most of my time, as it felt more engaging than the city-building. Building up small teams to drill and explore the depth below was great, and it reminded me of the Dungeon franchise.
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VideoGamer - Aden Carter - 8 / 10
>A joyous and relaxing city builder that will make you think
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XboxEra - Pieter Jasper - 7.5 / 10
>SteamWorld Build is a city-builder with heart that successfully mixes various genres. It is also accessible to players who don’t put hundreds of hours into Cities Skylines and for players who have played many games in the genre it is a cute palate cleanser that can be played through in one weekend. The game offers various maps, but the replayability is what’s going to hold this title back.
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Super Mario RPG - Review Thread
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Super Mario RPG
Platforms:
- Nintendo Switch (Nov 17, 2023)
Trailer:
Developer: Nintendo
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 84 average - 98% recommended - 46 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Ars Technica - Andrew Cunningham - Unscored
>For people who haven't played it in a while, the Super Mario RPG remake is a fun opportunity to revisit a game you remember fondly. For those who are new to RPGs, this game is a great and low-stress introduction to the form, much like the original game was for kids in the '90s. The worst thing I can say about it is that it's a little short, and for people who know the original, you might come away wishing that there was just more Mario RPG to play. Though that may just be me continuing to pine for the true sequel this game never got.
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Atomix - Alberto Desfassiaux - Spanish - 95 / 100
>Super Mario RPG is a new example of how to represent old classics in a new way. Nintendo just nailed it, presenting gorgeous graphics and music, and making the right choice on how to make better things such as gameplay mechanics and quality of life improvements.
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CGMagazine - Jordan Biordi - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is as good today as it was 27 years ago, and this remake simply brings it into the modern day.
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COGconnected - James Paley - 90 / 100
>Super Mario RPG is so faithful to the original that calling it a remake feels disingenuous. The game is more of a top-to-bottom remaster.
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Cerealkillerz - Julian Bieder - German - 8.7 / 10
>Square has conjured up a really detailed role-playing game for the SNES that has been rightly dusted off without changing much of the original: The HD textures and slightly revamped battle system bring Super Mario RPG up to date, and the post-game rematches offer a brand new tough challenge. All summed up, this is a remake of a role-playing game as it should be in the textbook; the only downer is and remains the playing time of the main story, which is too short at roughly 10 hours.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Luke Mitchell - 8 / 10
>Maintaining what made the original so special, Super Mario RPG provides a glow-up to an absolute classic RPG experience, with smart tweaks to combat bringing it firmly into the modern era. It's an utterly charming experience that sucks you into its gorgeous, colourful world. Still, in sticking firmly to its roots, it just doesn't provide the challenge or open-world gameplay to elevate it to the next level. If you're keen on a breezy nostalgic RPG with simple yet satisfying combat, the iconic Italian in a red hat has you covered.
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ComicBook.com - Marc Deschamps - 4 / 5
>Super Mario RPG has aged fantastically well, with great gameplay, a terrific story, and some excellent characterization. Developer ArtePiazza has added just enough quality of life improvements to refine the experience, while still maintaining the elements that made it a classic in the first place. For those that have never played it before, Super Mario RPG is a very easy recommendation, but those that have played through it a number of times over the last 27 years might find that there isn't enough new content to rationalize the $60.
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Console Creatures - Bobby Pashalidis - Recommended
>Super Mario RPG is legitimately one of the best video games ever. The original is timeless, and the Switch remake excels at updating the experience to a definitive sheen while retaining all the personality and memorable moments.
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Daily Mirror - Scott McCrae - 5 / 5
>While more seasoned players may find the experience a bit too easy until the post-game, Super Mario RPG is a great introduction to the RPG genre for newcomers. It’s also just an incredibly charming game, and it's a joy to look at from start to finish.
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Daily Star - Tom Hutchison - 4 / 5
>Overall, this is a great introduction to RPG games and offers a challenge as you push through the title. > >It’s got a lovely modern Switch sheen to it but still keeps all the core values of the original, classic game.
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Destructoid - Timothy Monbleau - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is an all-time classic game that both RPG lovers and Mario fans alike owe it to themselves to play. This Switch remake brilliantly preserves the spirit of the original SNES game, with some great quality-of-life enhancements and a phenomenally redone soundtrack. Longtime fans looking for a more transformative remake may feel disappointed, but when the core game itself has aged this well, it doesn’t suffer in the ways a lesser title would. If you’ve never played Super Mario RPG, or if you simply want an excuse to revisit it, this remake is for you.
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Dexerto - Olly Smith - 4 / 5
>A new lick of paint and some enhanced accessibility improvements bring the Super Mario RPG remake into the 21st century. While the game was already a great outing back in 1996, new players should have no problem jumping into Mario’s first RPG title, hopefully opening the door for next year’s Paper Mario remake and potentially more RPGs later down the line.
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Digital Trends - Giovanni Colantonio - 3.5 / 5
>Super Mario RPG isn't necessarily an improvement over the 1996 version, but it's at least a more approachable experience for kids.
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Eurogamer - Christian Donlan - 4 / 5
>The game that kicked off Mario's RPG adventures retains its charm in this cheerful remake.
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Eurogamer.pt - Vítor Alexandre - Portuguese - 4 / 5
>In the end it's a very balanced and successful proposal, a meeting of forces between Square and Nintendo that worked well. Perhaps the greatest merit of this remake is to fulfill the mission that the original lacked, to leave the Japanese exclusivity and reach the whole world, with a presentation that reveals care and at the same time fidelity to the primitive design.
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Everyeye.it - Riccardo Cantù - Italian - 8.5 / 10
>Ultimately, the remake of Super Mario RPG presents itself to the appointment with fans in an exceptional graphic design that cloaks the same gameplay that had propelled the original Legend of the Seven Stars into the Olympus of the best JRPGs in the history of the medium.
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GAMES.CH - Benjamin Braun - German - 82%
>In some ways the developers could have been more courageous concerning innovations, because beside graphics and new arranged score there is not much really new stuff. But playing it safe is fine, because with that Super Mario RPG is a beautiful looking role playing game with a great mixture of round based combat and action elements.
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Game Informer - Kyle Hilliard - 8.8 / 10
>Much of what has changed about Super Mario RPG for the remake beyond the visuals is behind the scenes. The pace is brisker, and my hour count (even after beating the big optional boss) came in lower than the average playtime of the original. The game has been tweaked only slightly to add some new mechanics and make the adventure even more welcoming than it already was. The result is an experience that only shows its age slightly and rewards longtime fans and newcomers alike.
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GamePro - Dennis Michel - German - 85 / 100
>A loving and timeless new edition that shows what a banger we had to do without in Europe in 1996.
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GameSpot - Steven Petite - 8 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is an overtly faithful recreation of the Super Nintendo hit, and this charming adventure has aged quite well.
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Gameblog - KiKiToes - French - 7 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a great remake. The game is atypical and very old school, but has enough quality to give it our full attention, especially since the improvements are numerous.
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GamesRadar+ - Dustin Bailey - 4 / 5
>It's maybe the most Mario has ever felt like a psychedelic dream sequence
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God is a Geek - Adam Cook - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a carefully crafted remake of a classic, shining new light on a game that many will have missed, adding only when necessary and taking nothing away in the process.
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Hobby Consolas - Álvaro Alonso - Spanish - 85 / 100
>Super Mario RPG is the perfect combination of classic Final Fantasy role-playing and the outpouring of originality and sense of humor of the Mario games. As a remake it's a bit short, but for us, who couldn't play it in its original version, it's quite a gift.
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>Super Mario RPG is considered a classic for a reason, and this faithful remake makes it easy for anyone who missed it in the SNES era to see why.
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IGN Italy - Mattia Ravanelli - Italian - 7.5 / 10
>Consider Super Mario RPG as a textbook: if you want to know how Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi were born, you're in the right place. If you're looking for a great Mario RPG, you'll find an outdated game.
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IGN Spain - Raquel Morales - Spanish - 9 / 10
>Nintendo recaptures the magic of Super Mario RPG, where nostalgia and brilliance go hand to hand thanks to a gameplay with subtle changes that really works.
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LevelUp - Pedro Pérez Cesari - Spanish - 9 / 10
>ArtePiazza understood what elements needed to be improved to deliver a remake that went beyond better graphics. This is Super Mario RPG for a new era and a new audience, with improvements that bring it closer to modern standards. It's hard to say that the remake will replace the gem that is the original, but it's another jewel that deserves to sit alongside it.
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 7 / 10
>An excellent remake of a historically important game, that often gets forgotten. The price is off-putting but beyond that this is a breezy and charming adventure that's perfect for RPG neophytes.
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Nintendo Life - Alana Hagues - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is here in all of its weird, wonderful glory for a new generation to experience, and sets a new standard for how to do a faithful remake right. Delivering a beautifully preserved, pure experience for fans of the original and an accessible entry-point for genre newcomers, the game's infectious charm, writing, and polished gameplay do so much to elevate this beyond what might have been merely a simple RPG starring Mario.
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>Super Mario RPG is a superb remake that perfectly captures the essence of the SNES original. This is not always to its credit, as elements of its platforming in particular have not aged as well as they could have, and the ability to block enemy attacks with Action Commands serves to make the times you can’t feel far more punishing. However, these are minor frustrations that do not tarnish the overall experience in any significant or lasting fashion. Its beautifully remastered visuals and soundtrack, witty dialogue, and engaging combat make Super Mario RPG a modern classic that is more than worth your time.
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PCMag - Will Greenwald - 4 / 5
>Super Mario RPG for Nintendo Switch is a great-looking and faithful remake that brims with the original release's charm and wonder.
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Press Start - James Mitchell - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a strong remake of an already stellar game. It successfully focuses on improving the original in all the right places: a faster and snappier battle system, strong quality-of-life improvements and more difficult optional content. These improvements combine with the game's already quirky charm to offer an experience that easily eclipses the original. While it's overly simplistic compared to other RPGs, that's ostensibly the point. Super Mario RPG is an oddball piece of Nintendo's history like no other, and that alone makes it worth experiencing.
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RPG Site - Scott White - 8 / 10
>This brand new remake of the 1996 classic recaptures a lot of what made the original game great while infusing it with modern updates that will be great for new players but may turn off fans of the original.
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Siliconera - Brent Koepp - 9 / 10
>In 1996, Square teamed up with Nintendo to make Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars. Nearly three decades later, the SNES classic is getting a much-deserved second chance with the excellent Super Mario RPG remake on the Nintendo Switch.
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Spaziogames - Valentino Cinefra - Italian - 8.7 / 10
>Super Mario RPG, with its faithful remake, is a vintage yet iconic game that defined the SNES era, offering a fresh and playful adventure that continues to inspire generations.
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Stevivor - Matt Gosper - 9.5 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is made in reverence to the original, bringing it to a new audience while also reminding returning players what was so great about it in the first place.
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The Games Machine - Daniele Cucchiarelli - Italian - 8.9 / 10
>The first Mario's RPG is still one hell of fun. Even after almost 30 years it offers a fun and fresh adventure, with many little surprises. A not particularly high difficulty level allows it to be playable even by an audience not familiar with the genre, but veterans may find it a bit too forgiving.
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TheSixthAxis - Reuben Mount - 8 / 10
>There is a lot to love in the Super Mario RPG remake. An adorable art style, deceptively deep combat, an excellent updated soundtrack, and genuinely funny skits and writing all make this game as much of a joy to play as the SNES original. If you can look past the simplicity of the game overall, and the occasionally frustrating experience that is the jumping puzzles, this is a stellar addition to the Switch's already stacked library.
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TrustedReviews - Ryan Jones - 4 / 5
>Super Mario RPG is a gorgeous reimagining of the SNES classic. Those looking for a dose of nostalgia will be pleased that this is a faithful remake, with just enough tweaks to make it more accessible to a new generation of gamers without diluting the magic of the original.
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Twinfinite - Zhiqing Wan - 4 / 5
>At the end of the day, I’m glad I got to play this refined version of Super Mario RPG. It’s a game that garnered quite a bit of critical and fan acclaim back when it first released in 1996, and the 2023 remake is a loving recreation that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. While I wish it could’ve been just a little bit more streamlined, it’s hard to complain too much about a game that just makes you smile and feel good for playing it.
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VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 4 / 5
>Though it can be a little easy, the Super Mario RPG remake scratches all the right itches – even a few decades on.
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Video Chums - A.J. Maciejewski - 8.5 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a faithful and super-cute remake that takes an already great game and simply makes it better. As you're jamming out to the new tunes, discovering secrets, and appreciating the new mechanics and visuals, you're bound to have an excellent time. ⭐
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Wccftech - Nathan Birch - 9 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a lovingly-crafted remake that retains the original’s peculiar off-brand charm, appealing combat, and varied level design while subtly tinkering with numerous elements to make the game more palatable for modern players.
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WellPlayed - James Wood - 8 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a gorgeously realised remake that brings the classic turn-based adventure to modern audiences but stops just short of recapturing the magical uniqueness of the original.
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XGN.nl - Luuc ten Velde - Dutch - 8 / 10
>Super Mario RPG is a strong remake from Nintendo thanks to the updated graphics, music and animations. It shows that the 1996-game is a timeless classic due to it's great story and memorable cast of characters.
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Alan Wake 2 - Review Thread (90/100 OpenCritic)
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Alan Wake 2
Platforms:
- PlayStation 5 (Oct 27, 2023)
- Xbox Series X/S (Oct 27, 2023)
- PC (Oct 27, 2023)
Trailers:
Developer: Remedy Entertainment
Publisher: Epic Games
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 90 average - 90% recommended - 42 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Attack of the Fanboy - J.R. Waugh - 4.5 / 5
>Everything, down to the puzzles, feels appropriately placed. That's before even acknowledging the gorgeous cast of actors involved in the project and the truly compelling story that unfolds for Alan as well as Saga, who each gain an interesting presence in Bright Falls and the world beyond. It doesn't feel like the most satisfying combat, and it's rather easy to beat, but this is also exactly what I wanted and more from an Alan Wake sequel. It is also the best original horror game of 2023 by a wide margin, and a damn fine video game overall.
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CGMagazine - Philip Watson - 9.5 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 is possibly one of the greatest pieces of storytelling crafted, and is a must play title.
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COGconnected - Mark Steighner - 90 / 100
>Alan Wake 2 rewards fans of the first game for their patience, and invites new players along for a wild, sometimes terrifying and mind-bending ride.
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Game Rant - Dalton Cooper - 2.5 / 5
>Alan Wake 2 has incredible graphics and some memorable moments, but it's dragged down by technical issues and tedious gameplay.
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GameSpot - Mark Delaney - 10 / 10
>Remedy delivers its greatest game to date by turning a long-awaited sequel into a uniquely meta multimedia masterpiece.
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GamesHub - Leah Williams - 5 / 5
>Alan Wake 2 almost feels mad in its approach, with an overwhelming array of threads in the tale that threaten to collapse under pressure at any moment. Yet with clear and incisive logic, matched with a devotion to delightful absurdity, the team at Remedy has managed to craft a breathtaking story – one that plays out in clever, fascinating, and horrifying ways.
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GamesRadar+ - Josh West - 5 / 5
>"Whenever I thought I had a handle on where Alan Wake 2 was leading me it upended my expectations"
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GamingTrend - David Burdette - 90 / 100
>There is nothing you'll play this year like Alan Wake 2. The choice of two protagonists works wonderfully, with an interwoven plot that is Remedy at their best. I love the twists and turns it takes, with an incredible atmosphere set that boosts everything it touches, including the combat. Alan Wake 2 is breathtaking both visually and audibly, whether in Bright Falls or The Dark Place. Our departure thirteen years ago is long forgotten; Alan Wake's return is a triumph.
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Geek Culture - Jake Su - 7.6 / 10
>The 20-odd hours we spent in Alan Wake 2 left us in a strange place. While its graphical and audio prowess are clear to see, the gameplay, and more crucially, the story, are going to have their merits hotly debated and discussed, and that’s not even including the technical shortcomings. For what it’s worth, we enjoyed this haunted journey through both darkness and light, but for hardcore fans and even newcomers, this sequel might not be an instant classic right away.
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God is a Geek - Lyle Carr - 9.5 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 is a spectacular sequel that was more than worth the wait, with a story that simply has to be experienced to be believed.
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IGN - Tristan Ogilvie - 9 / 10
>Alan Wake II is a superb survival-horror sequel that makes the cult-classic original seem like little more than a rough first draft by comparison.
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Metro GameCentral - GameCentral - 6 / 10
>A peculiar sequel that at times seems to be purposefully undermining the best elements of the original, but it still gets just enough right to please both existing fans and potential newcomers.
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Nexus Hub - Sam Aberdeen - 10 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 is an innovative, bolder, and scarier sequel that pushes the survival horror genre forward. Remedy have turned its strangeness dial to 11 and it's magnificent.
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PCGamesN - Andrew Farrell - 9 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 is a marvel, serving up intense gameplay, a twisty, dark story, and more secrets and surprises than you could possibly imagine. Remedy has outdone itself here, delivering a truly remarkable experience.
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PlayStation Universe - Tommy Holloway - 9.5 / 10
>13 years since its predecessor, Alan Wake 2 was absolutely worth the wait. Improving on the original in every way, with Remedy embracing their inspirations, and honing their craft, Alan Wake 2 is a surrealist horror masterpiece.
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Press Start - Brodie Gibbons - 9.5 / 10
>While I'm sure there were countless drafts and edits throughout the journey to this point, this Alan Wake II is proof that great things come to those who wait. Like breaking through after a thirteen year stretch of writer's block, I can only imagine the sense of relief in letting this monster of a game loose.
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Rectify Gaming - Henry - 9.5 / 10
>Game design is an art and Remedy Entertainment have created something of a masterpiece with Alan Wake 2. The four long years of development have paid off, and the passion and love from the studio truly speaks for itself. From the incredible worldbuilding and interconnected narratives to the elevated survival horror and detective case solving, Alan Wake 2 is a unique experience that you don’t want to miss.
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Screen Rant - Jacob Zeranko - 5 / 5
>Alan Wake 2 is a mind-bending, epic thriller that takes the best of Remedy’s catalogue & combines it all into nothing short of a masterpiece.
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TechRaptor - Jason Rodriguez - 7 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 takes you to the quiet locales of Washington and the streets of New York, places where darkness has taken root. Along the way, you can expect a tense and foreboding atmosphere, frantic action, and a memorable, mesmerizing romp. Sadly, there were several glaring issues that became prevalent during the course of this review.
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>This feels like the game this developer has wanted to make for years, unrestrained in the best possible way as it goes hard on layered storytelling, flawed yet fascinating heroes and a series which for over a decade now has been harbouring untold potential.
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TheSixthAxis - Nick Petrasiti - 10 / 10
>Just as it gives equal screen time to its two protagonists, Alan Wake 2 is a fine blend of equal parts narrative and survival horror. Both aspects are brought together in brilliant fashion to create a game that is going to mess with your head, scare the hell out of you and make you grin about it as you plunge forward once more, eager to see what's next.
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VG247 - Kelsey Raynor - 5 / 5
>In a superb blend of reality and fiction, Alan Wake 2 will earn its place as one of the best horror games out there.
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VGC - Jordan Middler - 5 / 5
>Massively confident, often groundbreaking, and full of surprises, Alan Wake 2 is Remedy at its very best. The shooting isn't stellar, but Alan Wake 2 is otherwise a horror thriller that shouldn't be missed.
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Wccftech - Francesco De Meo - 9 / 10
>With its excellent trippy horror story, memorable characters, amazing atmosphere, and some of the best visuals in gaming to date, Alan Wake II is a game like few others and Remedy Entertainment's best. It took 13 years for the acclaimed writer to come back, but the long wait was worth it. We could have hardly wished for a better sequel, despite the derivative survival horror gameplay holding the experience back a bit.
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Windows Central - Samuel Tolbert - 4.5 / 5
>Remedy Entertainment crafts a suspenseful journey full of twists, examining its title character in spades. It's a messy, imperfect narrative that doesn't even try to wrap up every plot thread, but delivers a raw, emotional ride. Solid third-person survival horror-gameplay helps carry that journey outside of a handful of technical issues.
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XboxEra - Jesse Norris - 10 / 10
>Alan Wake 2 is a masterpiece and you should play it, now.
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Cities Skylines 2 - Review Thread - (76/100 OpenCritic)
Game Information --------------------
Game Title: Cities: Skylines 2
Platforms:
- PC (Oct 24, 2023)
- PlayStation 5 (Oct 24, 2023)
- Xbox Series X/S (Oct 24, 2023)
Trailer:
Developer: Colossal Order Ltd.
Publisher: Paradox Interactive
Review Aggregator:
OpenCritic - 76 average - 67% recommended - 29 reviews
Critic Reviews -------------
Attack of the Fanboy - J.R. Waugh - 3.5 / 5
>In many ways, Cities Skylines 2 is addictive, but the word 'addictive' should be taken subjectively. The game has good addictive potential, like the runner's high after intense exercise or a delicious cup of coffee. But it also has bad addictive potential, like a narcotic, as you grind through the performance issues because you know it'll get good again soon, and you know your rig can totally handle it, as you promise to your friends.
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But Why Tho? - Matt Donahue - 9 / 10
>Cities Skylines 2 is a worthy successor to the long standing original city builder
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CGMagazine - David Walters - 8 / 10
>As far as world-building games go, Cities: Skylines II is second to none. The sheer volume of capability is staggering and the possibilities are endless for what you can create.
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Checkpoint Gaming - Omi Koulas - 9 / 10
>Cities: Skylines II is a city-building experience of epic proportions, filled with complexity and creativity. Its immense ambition in city design is complemented by an intricate web of services and an intelligent population. It may stumble under the weight of technical performance and a few bugs but the series still continues to redefine urban strategy in games. Colossal Order have truly delivered a living, breathing, dynamic city management game.
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Game Informer - Sarah Thwaites - 7.5 / 10
>Quantifying the nuance of Cities: Skylines II isn’t easy. As I dig deeper into its complicated systems, more and more exciting features are still coming into focus. The sequel is ambitious and wants players to juggle hundreds of considerations as they build towards Elysium, and it delivers in that aspect. Yet, unfortunately, the game’s consistent technical problems tend to mire that calculated success.
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GamesRadar+ - Dustin Bailey - 2 / 5
>It's going to take a lot of improvement to get this sim into an acceptable form
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God is a Geek - Mick Fraser - 8.5 / 10
>While it does struggle under the weight of its own ambition a little, Cities: Skylines II is still a super addictive city sim.
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IGN - Leana Hafer - 6 / 10
>Cities: Skylines 2 is an ambitious sequel that might have bitten off more than it can chew – be prepared to do a lot of terraforming if you don't want your metropolis to look like a nightmare.
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IGN Italy - Stefano Castelli - Italian - 8 / 10
>A good sequel which provides a better interface and lots of freedom for building your own cities. Too bad the game lacks in modes and optimization.
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LadiesGamers.com - Paula Moore - Loved
>Cities: Skylines II has much to life up to, and you. know what? This is a fantastic start to a fabulous game. I’m excited for the future of city building. The game will take off once the modders get to work and Colossal Order pushes out the usual updates. > >If you buy Cities: Skylines II, you can expect unfamiliarity, familiarity, surprises and the occasional frustration. But once you settle into it, plenty of new gameplay mechanics will keep you on your toes. > >I love it, and I can see that Colossal Order love their game, too. I predict Cities: Skylines II will be even more successful than it’s predecessor.
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Noisy Pixel - Colin Buchanan - 9 / 10
>Despite its few peculiarities and performance issues, Cities: Skylines II successfully upholds the legacy of its predecessor and raises the bar for the city-building genre. Whether you’re a seasoned city planner or a newcomer ready to embark on an urban adventure, Skylines II offers endless possibilities and countless hours of creative enjoyment.
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PC Gamer - Christopher Livingston - 77 / 100
>The city builder sequel is packed with big improvements but a fair share of disappointments.
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PCGamesN - Edward Smith - 7 / 10
>Intricate, intuitive, and ambitious, Cities Skylines 2 successfully integrates all the major improvements that players might have wanted. Something personal is lost in its larger scale, while performance problems spoil the beauty, but this could one day become the superior city building game.
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Polygon - Cameron Kunzelman - Unscored
>Skylines 2 appears to be the distinct result of a dev team looking out at other places to find beauty and, more importantly, designing with an aim toward getting players interested in thinking of themselves as people making aesthetic choices. It’s thrilling.
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Rock, Paper, Shotgun - Sin Vega - Unscored
>An engaging zone-based city builder that balances simulation with ease of play, but offers little that feels substantially new or improved enough to warrant a sequel.
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Saving Content - Scott Ellison II - 5 / 5
>Colossal Order offers an intricate deep simulation of a city builder. Aside from the taxing performance, it’s simply amazing to see in motion. For the price, you get a metropolis-sized game full of options. It’s also one of those things where I can’t wait to see what this game is like eight years from now. Cities: Skylines II offers the next-generation of the city builder that constantly impressed and amazed.
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VG247 - Alex Donaldson - 4 / 5
>This is an excellent sequel, and an exciting foundation for what I’m sure will be a bright, addition-packed future.
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VideoGamer - Antony Terence - 8 / 10
>Cities Skylines 2 is a well-loved home that picks smart renovation over a sweeping revolution. With incredible visuals and immaculate detailing, few cities can eclipse this colossal effort in terms of sheer freedom and choice.