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CRITIK

Chorus

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Chorus
Item: Chorus
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Simulation, Single Player, Racing, First Person Perspective

AvailableDec 3, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFishlabs

Overview

Take control of Nara, once the Circle's deadliest warrior, now their most wanted fugitive, on a quest to destroy the dark cult that created her. Unlock devastating weapons and mind-bending abilities in Chorus, a true evolution of the space-combat shooter. Along with Forsaken, her sentient starfighter, explore ancient temples, engage in exhilarating zero-g combat, and venture beyond our waking reality.

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

39%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Chorus are varied and offer a range of perspectives. Some critics, such as GAMES.CH and Hey Poor Player, appreciate the deep and engaging story with well-written characters and interesting dialogue. The main missions focus on Nara's fight against the Zirkel cult, while the side missions explore the influence of otherworldly forces on humanity. This positive feedback highlights the strengths of the narrative and the engaging storytelling elements present in the game. However, there are also critics, such as Worth Playing and Gamer.nl, who express concerns about the story. They mention that the details are poorly explained and incoherent, with unclear character motivations and relationships. Additionally, Gamer.nl criticizes the dramatic whispering tone of Nara's internal monologues, which becomes tiresome, and the overly dark tone of the game. These criticisms suggest that the story may lack clarity and may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics, like Dexerto and Game Informer, find the narrative forgettable or cliché, others, such as ZTGD and GameCritics, appreciate the exploration of emotions, empathy, and well-developed characters. The story is described as having a unique premise, but it may also feel overstuffed with sci-fi religious philosophies and interdimensional threats, as mentioned by IGN. The positive aspects of the story, such as the unique storytelling methods and engaging situations, mentioned by Video Chums, are counterbalanced by negative aspects, such as confusing elements and lackluster writing, as noted by COGconnected. Overall, the Story of Chorus seems to have its strengths and weaknesses, and its reception among critics appears to be a matter of personal preference.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the Story of Chorus. Some praise its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, while others criticize it for lacking clarity and coherence. Positive feedback highlights the unique storytelling elements, but negative comments point out confusing details and tiresome monologues. Overall, the game's reception among critics varies, with some finding it forgettable and cliché, while others appreciate its exploration of emotions and well-developed characters.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

70%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of Chorus, with many highlighting its fast-paced and thrilling combat. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and Gamer.nl commended the game for its intense dogfights and challenging enemy AI, while IGN and Game Informer emphasized the unique and powerful moves called rites that make battles more manageable and exhilarating. The combat was described as well-balanced and impactful, with a variety of weapons and special powers that add depth and versatility to the gameplay. Critics also appreciated the smooth controls and responsive handling of the starfighter, as mentioned by ZTGD and Gamepressure. The gameplay of Chorus was often described as easy to pick up and play, making it accessible to a wide range of players. The inclusion of exploration, sidequests, and upgrades further enhanced the overall experience, as noted by GameCritics and Hooked Gamers. Despite the overwhelmingly positive sentiment towards the gameplay, there were a few criticisms raised by some reviewers. IGN and GameSpew mentioned that the weapons and mods lacked variety and did not significantly alter the gameplay. COGconnected also pointed out that some missions felt padded and highlighted mechanical issues. GamesRadar++ and God is a Geek noted that there were occasional frustrating moments and misjudged boss fights. Additionally, Press Start Australia mentioned that controlling the spaceship and using Nara's abilities could be awkward at first. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Chorus is highly enjoyable and well-executed. The fast-paced and kinetic combat, combined with the use of powerful moves and unique abilities, creates an exhilarating experience. The game's controls were praised for being responsive and intuitive, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in intense dogfights. The inclusion of exploration, sidequests, and upgrades adds depth and variety to the gameplay, further enhancing the overall experience. While there were a few minor criticisms regarding lack of variety in weapons and mods, as well as occasional frustrating moments, these issues did not significantly detract from the overall positive reception of the gameplay. Chorus offers a satisfying and engaging space combat experience that is accessible to both casual and hardcore gamers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Chorus gameplay receives high praise for its fast-paced combat, intense dogfights, and unique abilities called rites. Critics laud its well-balanced mechanics, responsive controls, and accessibility. Despite minor criticisms of limited weapon variety and occasional frustrating moments, the overall consensus is that Chorus delivers an enjoyable and immersive space combat experience with depth and excitement for all types of players.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the graphics and visual design of Chorus, describing them as impressive, stunning, exquisite, and beautiful. They commended the game for its attention to detail, with highly detailed and well-animated character models, vibrant space environments, and colorful star systems. The visuals were often described as lifelike and atmospheric, creating a sense of scale and awe-inspiring moments. Critics like Worth Playing, ZTGD, and Impulsegamer specifically mentioned the outstanding detail in the art design and environments, blending well with the sound design and soundtrack to enhance the overall experience. The game's varied and colorful world, along with its architectural designs and strange sights, were also highlighted by critics such as Screen Rant and Dexerto. However, there were some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Chorus. Some critics, like Gamepressure and COGconnected, mentioned issues with the cutscenes, such as jerking and stuttering, as well as uncanny valley problems. Shacknews described the graphics as workmanlike, suggesting that they were functional but not particularly exceptional. Hardcore Gamer mentioned a lack of variety in environments and a heavy reliance on skyboxes. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the graphics and visual design of Chorus are very good. The positive aspects of the visuals, such as the impressive art design, detailed environments, and stunning star systems, were highlighted by multiple critics. While there were some minor criticisms, such as issues with cutscenes and a lack of variety in certain aspects, these did not significantly detract from the overall positive impression of the game's graphics. Chorus is generally regarded as visually impressive, with its beautiful and captivating visuals contributing to the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics raved about Chorus' stunning graphics, detailed character models, vibrant space environments, and captivating star systems. While some pointed out issues with cutscenes and lack of variety in environments, the overall consensus is that Chorus impresses with its visual design, creating a beautiful and immersive gaming experience.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple videogame reviewers regarding the Sound Design and Music of Chorus, it is evident that there are several positive aspects highlighted by the critics. COGconnected praises the game for its "excellent score and inventive sound design" that adds to the other-worldly atmosphere. Impulsegamer also commends the sound design and soundtrack, describing them as "impeccable" and further enhancing the atmospheric nature of the game. GamesRadar++ specifically mentions the roaring jets, pounding lasers, and radio chatter that create a good Star Wars battle scene atmosphere, which is highly praised. Additionally, God is a Geek highlights the memorable soundtrack by Pedro Camacho, adding to the positive reception of the game's music. However, there are also some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Worth Playing points out that while the voice acting in Chorus is mostly good, there are some awkward moments. They also mention that the game tries too hard to give characters quirks, which can fall flat. New Game Network specifically criticizes the voice acting, stating that it is lacking. Noisy Pixel mentions that while the voice-over is excellent, there is excessive dialogue from the protagonist, which could potentially be seen as a negative aspect. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards positive feedback regarding the Sound Design and Music of Chorus. The suitable soundtrack and solid voice acting, as mentioned by Xbox Achievements, contribute to the overall positive reception. PlayStation Country describes the sound design as nicely beefy, with dynamic battle sounds, and mentions that all conversations in the game are voice acted, although not exceptionally well. Push Square also highlights the fully done voice acting for the characters, which adds to the immersive experience. These positive aspects, combined with the praise for the atmospheric nature of the sound design and the memorable soundtrack, indicate that the Sound Design and Music of Chorus are generally well-received by the critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise Chorus for its excellent score, inventive sound design, and memorable soundtrack, creating an other-worldly atmosphere. While some mention awkward voice acting and excessive dialogue, the consensus leans towards positive feedback. Overall, the game's sound design and music are well-received, with dynamic battle sounds and fully voiced characters enhancing the immersive experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Chorus receives a mix of positive and negative feedback from the critics. IGN, Impulsegamer, and Push Square praise the voice acting, particularly for the character of Nara, stating that it is well done, impressive, and effectively tells the story. IGN even mentions that the inner monologue feature adds depth to the character. Hardcore Gamer also highlights the protagonist's voice acting, mentioning that it displays guilt and has depth. These positive opinions indicate that the voice acting successfully brings the characters to life and adds emotional depth to the narrative. However, there are also critics who express negative opinions about the voice acting in Chorus. New Game Network criticizes the lack of emotion in side characters and finds the protagonist's inner voice annoying. God is a Geek mentions that the voice acting lacks chemistry and compelling dialogue, while Metro GameCentral describes it as mediocre. These negative reviews suggest that the voice acting may not always hit the mark in terms of delivering emotional performances or engaging dialogue. Overall, the consensus among the critics is somewhat divided. While there are positive remarks about the voice acting, particularly for the character of Nara, there are also criticisms regarding the lack of emotion in side characters and the overall chemistry and dialogue. Worth Playing mentions that the voice acting in Chorus is mostly good, but there are some awkward moments, indicating that there are both strengths and weaknesses in the performances. Noisy Pixel acknowledges that the voice-over is excellent for the most part, but PlayStation Country notes that the voice acting is not especially brilliant. This mixed reception suggests that while the voice acting in Chorus has its highlights, it may not consistently meet the expectations of all players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Chorus. Some praise the protagonist's voice work as impressive and emotional, while others criticize the lack of chemistry and emotion in side characters. Overall, the voice acting in Chorus has its strengths and weaknesses, leaving opinions divided among critics.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

22%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

22%

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

In terms of the technical performance of Chorus, there are both positive and negative opinions from the critics across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, Checkpoint Gaming and Shacknews both played the game on Xbox Series X and praised its smooth performance, fast response times, and short load times. This indicates that the game runs well on this platform, providing an enjoyable and seamless experience for players. Moving on to the negatives, there are several issues mentioned by the critics across different platforms. Worth Playing, who played the game on PS4, highlighted jerky and stuttering cutscenes, which can be immersion-breaking and disrupt the overall smooth gameplay. Hey Poor Player and New Game Network, both playing on Xbox Series X, mentioned technical glitches, camera bugs, and occasional slowdowns, which can negatively impact the gameplay experience. COGconnected, playing on PS5, pointed out bugs that impact gameplay, such as teleporting into objects and limited save options, which can be frustrating for players. Looking at the overall consensus of the critics, it is clear that there are technical issues present in Chorus across different gaming platforms. GameCritics, playing on PC, mentioned small hiccups in design and mission-breaking bugs, but expressed optimism that these issues would be addressed through patches. GameSpew, playing on PS5, pointed out bugs and crashes that lead to progress loss and issues with pausing and saving, which significantly detract from the overall experience. However, Impulsegamer, playing on PS5, mentioned that while there are a few immersion-breaking bugs affecting controls, they are relatively rare. In summary, while Chorus has received positive feedback regarding its technical performance on Xbox Series X, with smooth gameplay and fast response times, there are notable technical issues on other platforms. These issues include jerky cutscenes on PS4, technical glitches and camera bugs on Xbox Series X, and bugs impacting gameplay and limited save options on PS5. The overall consensus among the critics is that Chorus suffers from technical issues, but there is optimism that some of these issues will be resolved through future patches.

TL;DR

technical performance

Chorus earns praise for smooth performance on Xbox Series X, but faces criticism for technical issues on other platforms. Critics note jerky cutscenes on PS4, glitches and slowdowns on Xbox Series X, and bugs impacting gameplay on PS5. While some are optimistic about fixes through patches, overall consensus highlights technical challenges across different platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Chorus are quite varied. Some critics, such as Xbox Achievements and GameCritics, highlight the presence of numerous side missions, achievements, and challenges that contribute to the game's overall runtime and replayability. These side quests provide players with additional content to explore and engage with, offering a sense of sustained gameplay beyond the main story. Additionally, GameCritics emphasizes that the game's choices and strong motivation to complete side quests add to its replay value. IGN also mentions the presence of side quests with fleshed-out stories and characters that lead to powerful new weapons or upgrades, further enhancing the replayability of Chorus. However, there are also critics who express concerns about the replay value of Chorus. Worth Playing points out that while the game does have side quests that provide loot and flesh out the world setting, they largely fall into the same category of shooting down enemies or watching memories of earlier events. This lack of variety in side quests may limit the overall replayability of the game. COGconnected also mentions that while there are deep side missions and plenty of content outside the campaign, some missions suffer from repetition, which could potentially impact the desire to replay the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Chorus offers a decent amount of replay value through its side quests, achievements, and challenges. The presence of side quests with fleshed-out stories and characters, as highlighted by IGN, adds depth and incentive for players to engage in additional playthroughs. The exploration, side quests, and upgrade system that encourage replayability, as mentioned by ZTGD, further contribute to the game's overall replay value. However, there are concerns raised by critics such as Worth Playing and COGconnected regarding the lack of variety in side quests and the potential for repetitive missions, which may impact the desire to replay the game. It is important for players to consider these factors when assessing the replay value of Chorus.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of Chorus. Some praise its side missions and incentives for replaying, while others criticize the lack of variety and potential for repetition. Ultimately, Chorus offers decent replayability through its side quests and upgrade system, but concerns remain about the game's long-term appeal.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

47%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Chorus is generally positive among the critics. The game is praised for its entertaining and punchy gameplay, impressive graphics, and unique gameplay mechanics. Critics like Worth Playing, Checkpoint Gaming, and IGN highlight the enjoyable combat sequences and the compelling world that Chorus offers. They appreciate the game's ability to evoke space combat fantasies and its stellar combat. The game is also commended for its promising debut and its balance between story, controls, and gameplay, as mentioned by New Game Network and Noisy Pixel. The visuals and slick combat are also mentioned as standout features by Push Square. The engaging gameplay and solid space combat are mentioned by PlayStation Country and Video Chums, respectively. These positive aspects contribute to the overall positive sentiment towards Chorus. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. The storytelling and character development are criticized by critics such as Gamer.nl, Gamepressure, and Push Square. They mention issues with the story's excessive use of techno-babble and angsty monologues, as well as the lackluster characterization of the protagonist. Technical issues and frustrating moments are also mentioned by Hey Poor Player and GameSpew. Repetitive gameplay elements and lack of explanation are highlighted as drawbacks by Press Start Australia and GameSpew. These negative aspects, although mentioned by some critics, do not significantly impact the overall sentiment towards Chorus. Overall, the critics' consensus is that Chorus is a solid space shooter with entertaining gameplay, impressive visuals, and a compelling narrative. The game is praised for its unique gameplay mechanics and its ability to fill a void in the 3D space combat genre, as mentioned by Hooked Gamers and GamesRadar++. The core action is described as exhilarating and the combat sequences are highlighted as standout features. While there are some criticisms regarding the storytelling, character development, and technical issues, the positive aspects outweigh the negatives, leading to an overall positive sentiment towards Chorus. Critics such as Metro GameCentral and Screen Rant consider the game to be ambitious and highly recommended, showcasing its potential as an original IP.

TL;DR

Critics praise Chorus for its entertaining gameplay, impressive graphics, and unique mechanics, evoking space combat fantasies with stellar combat. However, some criticize its storytelling and character development, with technical issues and repetitive gameplay noted. Overall, Chorus is seen as a solid space shooter with compelling action, despite its flaws.

CRITIK

Reviews

127 reviews found

100

ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Dec 3, 2021

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

The reviewer loves everything about the game and wishes for a sequel or DLC. The only downside mentioned is the inability to leave the ship and walk around as the protagonist.

Hooked Gamers

Dec 14, 2021

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

Chorus is described as a fun space shooter adventure that fills a void in the 3D space combat genre. The game is praised for its graphics, story, and combat sequences. One negative mentioned is that some boss fights are overly difficult and long. Overall, the game is recommended.

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Screen Rant

PlayStation 5

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is a fantastic and ambitious space shooter with enthralling gameplay, a captivating story, and a visually stunning world. The minor plots and side quests may not live up to the main story, but overall, Chorus is highly recommended.

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GameCritics

Dec 6, 2021

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

Chorus is an outstanding space combat game with a compelling narrative and superb design, despite some small issues.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is a standout space adventure with a balance between story, controls, and gameplay

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Checkpoint Gaming

Xbox Series X

Dec 23, 2021

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

While the game lacks a more deft approach in telling its story, its gameplay more than makes up for it. Chorus achieves where it counts and offers a compelling enough world that could evoke stories that might matter more to the player, widening the potential for the game's context to further emphasize the game's truly stellar combat.

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Slant Magazine

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is an engrossing and thoughtful adventure that makes a significant impact.

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Worth Playing

PlayStation 4

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is a fun arcade-style space shooter with some cool mechanics. The plot could be better conveyed and there could be more variety in side-quests, but it doesn't mar the experience. The game offers entertaining and punchy gameplay.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is a great game, especially for the lower launch price, and offers a varied and enjoyable gameplay experience despite some flaws

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Gamepressure

Dec 3, 2021

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

Chorus is a fun game with satisfying gameplay, but the story limits player agency and the protagonist's lackluster characterization is a drawback. The graphics are a mix of excellent environments and lackluster cutscenes.

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