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CRITIK

AEW: Fight Forever

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of AEW: Fight Forever
Item: AEW: Fight Forever
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresAction, Fighting, Sports, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 29, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperYuke's

Overview

AEW: Fight Forever combines nostalgic arcade-wrestling with All Elite Wrestling finishers and moves. Featuring a big roster of AEW talent, multiple match types, robust career mode, tons of customization options, more than 40 weapons, and so much more!

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

82%

Negative (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of AEW: Fight Forever are varied. Some critics, such as PCGamesN and GGRecon, appreciate the game's story mode for celebrating the AEW brand and its achievements in the wrestling scene. They find the story mode, particularly the Road to Elite mode, to be a clever and enjoyable experience that pushes players through different types of matches and backstage skits (Pure Nintendo). Additionally, the game's use of video vignettes and references to real-life events and wrestlers adds depth and authenticity to the story (PCGamesN). However, there are also negative opinions regarding the story mode. Critics like Gaming Age, Digital Spy, and Game Informer express disappointment with the lack of coherence and depth in the storyline. They find that the story mode doesn't always make sense (Gaming Age) and lacks depth, with repetition occurring in multiple playthroughs (Digital Spy). Game Informer specifically criticizes the Road to Elite mode for falling flat with a bland and occasionally bizarre journey from new signee to world champ. Impulsegamer and PlayStation LifeStyle also criticize the minimal voice acting and dropped storylines in the game's career mode. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics appreciate the story mode for its cleverness, celebration of the AEW brand, and inclusion of key moments from AEW's history (Player 2), others find it forgettable, lacking depth, and repetitive (Press Start Australia, Metro GameCentral). The game's story mode offers various options and storylines (Nintendo Life), but it lacks immersion and gravitas due to issues such as terrible AI and lack of consequences for losing matches (Slant Magazine, TheSixthAxis). The replay value of the story mode is also a point of contention, with some critics finding it high due to different directions depending on match outcomes (Gamereactor UK), while others find it limited (PlayStation LifeStyle). In conclusion, the opinions of the critics regarding the story of AEW: Fight Forever are diverse. While some appreciate the game's celebration of the AEW brand and clever story mode, others find it lacking in coherence, depth, and immersion. The inclusion of video vignettes and references to real-life events and wrestlers is generally seen as a positive aspect, but issues such as repetition, minimal voice acting, and dropped storylines detract from the overall experience. Ultimately, the consensus is that the story mode has its strengths and weaknesses, with varying levels of replay value and overall impact.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are split on AEW: Fight Forever's story mode. Some praise its celebration of AEW's brand and clever gameplay, while others criticize its lack of coherence and depth. The inclusion of real-life references adds authenticity, but issues like repetition and minimal voice acting dampen the experience. Overall, opinions vary on the game's strengths and weaknesses, with mixed views on replay value and overall impact.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

34%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of AEW: Fight Forever are quite varied, but there are several positive aspects that stand out. Many critics praise the game for successfully emulating the golden age of wrestling games, with controls that are well-executed and easy to pick up and play (PCGamesN, App Trigger). The gameplay is described as fun, arcade-style, and reminiscent of classic wrestling games like No Mercy, with a focus on strike combos, grappling, and reversals (PCMag, Digital Spy, GamingBolt). The game offers a large move catalog, allowing for customization of wrestlers and the creation of unique movesets (App Trigger, Gaming Age). The inclusion of special matches and unique mechanics, such as chain wrestling and dives, adds depth and variety to the gameplay experience (Digital Spy, GAMES.CH). The game also features various match types, including one-on-one, tag team, and Casino Battle Royale, catering to different playstyles (GAMES.CH). However, there are some negative aspects that critics point out. Some reviewers mention occasional wonky moves, polygon clipping issues, and issues with no-sell moves and reversals (PCMag, App Trigger). Tag matches are criticized for being constantly interrupted, and matches with three or more participants are considered a drag (PlayStation LifeStyle). The AI is described as predictable, and escaping a pin fall is underwhelming (VideoGamer). Some critics feel that the gameplay lacks variation, is not involving or dynamic, and is considered sloppy (GameSpew). The career mode is also criticized for feeling lacking (GGRecon). Pin attempts and computer-controlled characters are mentioned as issues (Gamereactor UK). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that AEW: Fight Forever delivers a fun and enjoyable gameplay experience, capturing the spirit of classic wrestling games while adding some unique features. The game is praised for its simple controls, easy-to-understand mechanics, and emphasis on strike combos and grappling. The inclusion of special matches, unique mechanics, and a large move catalog adds depth and variety to the gameplay. However, there are some technical issues and areas for improvement, such as wonky moves, clipping issues, and predictable AI. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics find the gameplay to be engaging and entertaining, making AEW: Fight Forever a worthwhile experience for fans of wrestling games (Hooked Gamers, Cultured Vultures, GamingBolt, TheSixthAxis).

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on AEW: Fight Forever gameplay, with praise for its nostalgic wrestling game feel, fun arcade-style play, and extensive move catalog. However, some criticize technical issues like wonky moves and predictable AI, while others find tag matches and career mode lacking. Overall, the game delivers an enjoyable experience with simple controls and unique features, despite some room for improvement.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

84%

Negative (0-49)

12%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of AEW: Fight Forever, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Several critics, such as COGconnected and GAMINGbible, appreciate the attention to detail in the wrestlers' design and the authenticity of their moves, which adds to the overall experience. Additionally, GAMINGbible mentions the enhanced graphics mod that updates the game with a fresh coat of paint, making the world look clearer and the brutality bloodier. This suggests that there are elements within the game's visual design that are well-executed and enhance the gameplay. However, there are also several criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of AEW: Fight Forever. Multiple critics, including Hooked Gamers and PCMag, mention that the game's graphics feel dated and lack contemporary polish. PCGamesN points out issues with character models resembling frog-like appearances at times, while Pure Nintendo and Nintendo Life mention visual glitches and blurriness, especially on the Nintendo Switch. GameSpew criticizes the visuals for being plasticky and awkwardly animated, while Game Informer mentions that the wrestler designs and proportions resemble semi-cartoony action figures, which can be hit-and-miss in terms of resemblance to the real versions. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that AEW: Fight Forever falls short in terms of its Graphics and Visual Design. While there are some positive aspects, such as attention to detail and enhancements through graphics mods, the game is often criticized for feeling dated, lacking polish, and suffering from visual glitches and blurriness. Critics like PlayStation Country and PlayStation LifeStyle express disappointment in the wonky character models and lackluster presentation. TheSixthAxis and Slant Magazine highlight the shortcomings in wrestler designs and create-a-wrestler mode. These criticisms outweigh the positive aspects, leading to an overall consensus that the game's Graphics and Visual Design do not meet modern standards and fail to impress.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed opinions on AEW: Fight Forever's graphics. Some praise detail and authenticity, while others criticize dated visuals, frog-like character models, and glitches. Overall, the game falls short with outdated visuals that disappoint and fail to meet modern standards.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

20%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of AEW: Fight Forever are quite varied. Several critics, such as Hooked Gamers and Digital Spy, highlight the positive aspects of the game's music. Hooked Gamers mentions a massive list of customizable music in the career mode, while Digital Spy praises the hefty entrance music library and recorded announcer audio for specific wrestlers' entrances. These aspects contribute to an immersive experience and capture the essence of AEW. Additionally, COGconnected commends the combination of sound and animation, which enhances the impact of each attack and creates memorable sequences. However, there are also negative opinions regarding the Sound Design and Music of AEW: Fight Forever. Critics like Gaming Age and Nintendo Life express disappointment in the lack of commentary during matches. Gaming Age specifically points out that the crowd sounds tinny and far away, while Nintendo Life simply states the absence of commentary. Furthermore, Game Informer and Impulsegamer criticize the game for its lack of match commentary and voice acting during the story mode. These aspects contribute to an underwhelming presentation and detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of AEW: Fight Forever is mixed. While there are positive aspects, such as the extensive music customization options and the immersive impact of sound and animation, there are also significant drawbacks, such as the absence of commentary during matches and limited voice acting. Critics like GGRecon and Slant Magazine appreciate the game's efforts to capture the quirks and iconic moments of AEW, but others, like Game Informer and Impulsegamer, find the presentation underwhelming due to the lack of match commentary and voice acting. Therefore, it can be concluded that while AEW: Fight Forever has some positive elements in its Sound Design and Music, there are notable areas for improvement that affect the overall sentiment of the critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the Sound Design and Music of AEW: Fight Forever. Positive highlights include customizable music and immersive sound effects, but negatives like lack of commentary and voice acting detract from the experience. Overall, while some appreciate the game's efforts to capture AEW's essence, others find its presentation underwhelming.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

50%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in AEW: Fight Forever are varied. Some critics, such as PlayStation Country and PCMag, mention positive aspects of the voice acting. PlayStation Country highlights the solid performance of Tony Khan, the owner of AEW, while PCMag mentions that the game lacks voice work without providing further details. These positive comments suggest that there are some instances of decent voice acting in the game. However, the majority of the critics express negative opinions about the voice acting in AEW: Fight Forever. Critics like GAMES.CH, GGRecon, Game Informer, Impulsegamer, Slant Magazine, and Gamereactor UK all criticize the game for its lack of substantial voice acting or limited voiceover. GAMES.CH specifically mentions that there is no commentary during matches, which can be a significant drawback for players looking for a more immersive experience. Gamereactor UK goes as far as describing the voice acting in the story mode as uninspired and almost laughably bad. These negative comments indicate a consensus among the critics that the voice acting in AEW: Fight Forever is lacking and fails to meet expectations. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in AEW: Fight Forever is a weak point of the game. While there are a few positive mentions, the majority of the critics highlight the limited voice acting, lack of commentary, and underwhelming presentation. This suggests that the voice acting does not contribute positively to the overall experience of the game. Players who value strong voice acting and immersive storytelling may find this aspect of AEW: Fight Forever disappointing.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in AEW: Fight Forever, with some praising Tony Khan's performance but many criticizing the lack of substantial voice work. While a few note decent voice acting, the majority slam the game for its limited voiceover, absence of commentary, and uninspired delivery in story mode. Overall, critics agree that the voice acting is a weak point, failing to enhance the game's experience and potentially disappointing players seeking immersive storytelling.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

42%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance on PC, PCMag mentions occasional graphics bugs and clipping, as well as cloud save issues. However, they also note that the game runs smoothly on a mid-range gaming PC. This indicates that while there are some technical issues, the game generally performs well on this platform. Moving on to the Nintendo Switch, several critics point out technical issues. App Trigger mentions moves clipping through opponents and AI walking into downed bodies, while Gaming Age mentions intermittent performance issues including freezing and wobbling ropes. Nintendo Life adds that the game runs at 30fps on the Switch and experiences occasional freezes, while Pure Nintendo highlights visual glitches and frame rate problems. These reviews collectively suggest that the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch is subpar, with various issues impacting the gameplay experience. For the PlayStation 5, Cultured Vultures criticizes the game for feeling clunky to play, with sluggish running and clumsy controls for certain wrestlers. GAMES.CH adds that the game suffers from numerous programming errors, while TheSixthAxis mentions confusing online play setup and irritating lag. However, Impulsegamer notes that the game runs smoothly even with modest internet speeds. Overall, the reviews for the PS5 indicate a mixed bag of technical performance, with some critics highlighting significant issues while others find the game to be relatively stable. Lastly, for the Xbox Series X, Gamereactor UK mentions bugs and stability issues, such as not being able to start the last week of the story mode. Unfortunately, no other specific reviews for this platform are provided, making it difficult to draw a comprehensive analysis of the technical performance on the Xbox Series X. In summary, the opinions of the critics regarding the technical performance of AEW: Fight Forever vary across different gaming platforms. While the PC version seems to perform relatively well, with occasional bugs and clipping, the Nintendo Switch version receives criticism for various technical issues such as freezes, glitches, and frame rate problems. The PlayStation 5 version also faces challenges, including clunky controls, programming errors, and online play issues. The Xbox Series X version is mentioned briefly with stability issues highlighted. Overall, the consensus suggests that the technical performance of AEW: Fight Forever is lacking, with notable issues impacting the gameplay experience on multiple platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

AEW: Fight Forever performs decently on PC with some bugs, while the Nintendo Switch version suffers from freezes and glitches. The PlayStation 5 version has clunky controls and programming errors, and the Xbox Series X version has stability issues. Overall, technical performance varies across platforms, with critics highlighting significant issues impacting gameplay.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

21%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

13%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

In analyzing the opinions of the videogame reviewers regarding the replay value of AEW: Fight Forever, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects to consider. Several critics, such as Hooked Gamers and COGconnected, highlight the game's content and updates, including additional modes, mini-games, and different routes in the single-player career mode, which contribute to its replay value. Pure Nintendo also emphasizes the abundance of activities, daily/weekly challenges, and unlockable items that can keep single players entertained. These positive aspects suggest that the game offers a variety of options and incentives to revisit and engage with its content. However, there are also negative opinions expressed by critics such as Cultured Vultures and Game Informer. They mention concerns about the limited roster, lackluster mini-games, and shallow overall package, which may lead to the game's content growing stale quickly. Additionally, the absence of certain features, such as the inability to share characters online or lack of real tag teams until DLC is released, as mentioned by GamingBolt, can detract from the game's replay value. Metro GameCentral also points out limited match choices and a lack of depth in the story mode, which further diminishes the overall replayability of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is somewhat mixed. While some reviewers highlight the game's potential for replay value, particularly in terms of its single-player career mode, mini-games, and challenges, others express concerns about the limited content, shallow package, and lack of certain features. The positive aspects mentioned by critics such as Hooked Gamers, PCMag, and Pure Nintendo indicate that AEW: Fight Forever has enough content and updates to entice players to stick around. However, the negative opinions voiced by critics like Cultured Vultures and Game Informer suggest that the game may not have enough depth or variety to maintain long-term engagement. Ultimately, players' enjoyment and perception of the game's replay value may depend on their personal preferences, love for the sport and franchise, and the potential for future updates and additional content, as suggested by Gamers' Temple and Movies Games and Tech.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of AEW: Fight Forever. Some praise its content variety and updates, while others criticize the limited roster and lack of depth. The game offers incentives like additional modes and challenges, but issues like shallow gameplay and missing features may hinder long-term engagement. Ultimately, player enjoyment will vary based on personal preferences and the potential for future updates.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The opinions of the critics regarding the overall verdict of AEW: Fight Forever are quite varied. There are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Critics such as COGconnected and Cultured Vultures praise the gameplay of AEW: Fight Forever, with COGconnected even considering it the best wrestling game in the past 20 years. They mention addictive gameplay, a deep control scheme, and fun additional modes. App Trigger also finds the game enjoyable, particularly for fans of retro wrestling and the Nintendo 64 era. Pure Nintendo appreciates how the game captures the tone and arcade gameplay of All Elite Wrestling, making it a compelling experience for fans. The inclusion of footage from the shows and intense special matches is highlighted by GAMES.CH. Additionally, GamingBolt commends the game for offering a decent alternative to WWE games with its fun and fast-paced gameplay. However, there are also a number of negative points raised by the critics. PCGamesN, Digital Spy, and Player 2 mention room for improvement in areas such as character models, game modes, AI balancing, story, features, and customization options. PCMag suggests that AEW: Fight Forever may be a bit expensive for what it offers and recommends Fire Pro Wrestling World as a better PC wrestling game. PlayStation LifeStyle goes as far as describing the game as a pale imitation of beloved wrestling games and an annoying chore to complete, lacking innovation and a strong core for a sequel. TheSixthAxis criticizes the patchy roster, limited match types, and frustrating AI, while Game Informer finds potential in the arcade-style gameplay but believes the rest of the package needs improvement. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that AEW: Fight Forever has its strengths and weaknesses. While there are positive aspects such as addictive gameplay, capturing the AEW tone, and providing a solid foundation for future entries, there are also areas that need improvement, including character models, game modes, AI balancing, and customization options. The game is generally seen as enjoyable, particularly for fans of All Elite Wrestling or those seeking a nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic wrestling games. However, it falls short of being a top-tier wrestling game and may not have enough depth or longevity to justify its price tag, according to critics like Metro GameCentral.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on AEW: Fight Forever. Positive feedback praises its addictive gameplay, capturing the AEW vibe, and fun modes. However, critics note room for improvement in areas like character models, game modes, and AI balancing. While enjoyable for AEW fans and nostalgia seekers, the game falls short of being a top-tier wrestling game and may not justify its price tag, according to reviewers.

CRITIK

Reviews

126 reviews found

COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Jun 29, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that AEW: Fight Forever is the best wrestling game in the past 20 years, with addictive gameplay, a deep control scheme, and fun additional modes, despite some disappointing aspects like the basic creation suite and lack of community uploads.

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Slant Magazine

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is an accessible and breezy rendition of AEW's product, with a focus on fast-paced action and death-defying performances. While it may not offer strict realism, it has potential for future growth and is better than other AAA wrestling games.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is described as a return to form for pro-wrestling games, offering a decent alternative to the WWE games with its fun, fast-paced gameplay and lots of minor details. The mid-tier graphics and lack of complete entrance animations are mentioned as drawbacks.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever sacrifices certain aspects due to budget constraints but delivers a fun and classic wrestling game experience inspired by No Mercy. It has its shortcomings but captures the spirit of the vintage game.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jul 10, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is the best wrestling game available on the Switch, despite its flaws.

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GamesRadar+

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises AEW Fight Forever as a highly promising debut and recommends it to every wrestling fan.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Aug 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as a great modern wrestling game with a range of game modes, customization options, and a fascinating career mode. It is recommended for fans of the genre.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is a fun and engaging wrestling game that feels like a solid foundation for future entries.

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Digital Spy

PlayStation 5

Jun 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is a solid foundation that successfully adapts the fundamentals of classic wrestling games to All Elite Wrestling. It falls short in certain areas related to story, features, and creation, but is recommended for AEW fans and wrestling game enthusiasts.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

AEW: Fight Forever is a disjointed but compelling wrestling game that captures the AEW tone and arcade gameplay. It may turn off some wrestling game purists, but fans of All Elite Wrestling should feel comfortable with it.

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