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CRITIK

Destiny

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

2014

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 9, 2014

PlatformXbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperBungie Software, Bungie

Overview

Destiny is a fantasy-themed graphic adventure game with RPG elements. The game is played via game cursor, and all available commands are on the right hand side of the screen. The player moves by selecting north, south, east, or west. The player must select individual areas of the screen in order to search or look at objects. Graphical display of the player's location appears on the main screen.

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Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

30%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Destiny are quite divided. Some critics, such as ActionTrip and Toronto Sun, find the story to be intriguing and engaging. They appreciate the futuristic setting and the concept of Guardians fighting against the forces of Darkness. The game's premise of humanity on the brink of extinction and the player's role in reclaiming the solar system is seen as a positive aspect. Additionally, Game Revolution mentions narrative teases provided by Peter Dinklage's character, which adds some intrigue to the story. On the other hand, several critics express disappointment with the story of Destiny. Critical Hit, DarkZero, Digital Spy, Game Informer, Game Over Online, GameCritics, GameFront, Gamers' Temple, Gaming Age, Guardian, The Escapist, and ZTGD all mention various shortcomings in the story. These criticisms include a lack of depth, uninteresting characters, vague and unexplained lore, disconnected plot threads, and a lack of emotional depth. Some critics, like Cheat Code Central and Slant Magazine, even describe the story as drab, dreary, and incoherent. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Destiny is a weak aspect of the game. While there are a few positive remarks about the setting and premise, the majority of critics express disappointment with the lack of depth, character development, and coherence in the narrative. The reliance on external sources, such as websites and grimoire cards, to understand the story is seen as a drawback by several critics, including PlayStation LifeStyle. The general sentiment is that the story of Destiny falls short of expectations and fails to engage players effectively.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on Destiny's story - some find it intriguing with a futuristic setting and Guardians fighting Darkness, while others criticize it for lack of depth, uninteresting characters, and disconnected plot threads. Consensus: weak story with few positives, disappointing overall.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

77%

Mixed (50-79)

23%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Destiny are generally positive. Many critics praise the shooting mechanics and combat, with several mentioning that the gunplay feels solid and satisfying (Cheat Code Central, Destructoid, Game Revolution, GameFront). The controls are described as simplistic and consistently fun to play, similar to a Halo game (Cheat Code Central). The gameplay offers a mix of activities for solo, cooperative, and competitive play, with a variety of missions and multiplayer modes (Game Informer, Game Over Online). The gameplay is also highly enjoyable and addictive, with smooth shooting mechanics and familiar gameplay elements (DarkZero, Gameplanet). The AI is praised for its intelligence and challenging nature, with enemies behaving differently based on slight thematic differences (The Escapist, games(TM)). The addictive and fun nature of the gameplay, especially when playing with friends, is also mentioned (Toronto Sun, ZTGD). However, there are also some negative opinions regarding the gameplay of Destiny. Several critics mention that the missions can feel repetitive and formulaic, often involving advancing on a point of interest and defending it from enemies (Digital Spy, Game Informer). The missions are described as monotonous and repetitive, with a lack of variety in environments, weapons, vehicles, and enemies (Shacknews). Some critics feel that the gameplay suffers from a lack of variety in mission design, making it feel lackluster (ZTGD). The gameplay is also criticized for its conventional and old-school nature, with repetitive mission structures and predictable AI behavior (Guardian). Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Destiny is enjoyable and addictive, with solid shooting mechanics and satisfying combat. The game offers a variety of activities for solo, cooperative, and competitive play, with a mix of missions and multiplayer modes. The addictive nature of the gameplay, especially when playing with friends, is highlighted by several critics. However, there are criticisms regarding the repetitive and formulaic nature of the missions, as well as the lack of variety in mission design and enemy behavior. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment towards the gameplay of Destiny is positive, with many critics praising its addictive and enjoyable nature.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics generally praise Destiny's gameplay for its solid shooting mechanics, satisfying combat, and enjoyable cooperative play. However, some criticize the repetitive missions and lack of variety in design. Overall, Destiny's gameplay is addictive and fun, especially when playing with friends, despite its flaws.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

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 Destiny, with many describing it as beautiful, stunning, and visually impressive. Critics such as ActionTrip, DarkZero, Digital Spy, Game Informer, Game Over Online, Gameplanet, Gamers' Temple, Gaming Age, Guardian, Hardcore Gamer, IGN Italia, Merlin'in Kazanı, PlayStation LifeStyle, Slant Magazine, Toronto Sun, VideoGamer, games(TM), and Official Xbox Magazine UK all expressed positive opinions about the game's visuals. They commended the sharpness, smoothness, and intricate detail of the graphics, as well as the stunning environments and attention to detail. The visuals were described as having impeccable production values, with gorgeous art and a varied and well-done visual design. However, there were some critics who had reservations about the graphics and visual design of Destiny. Critical Hit mentioned that while the locales were beautiful, they appeared hollow and lacked depth upon closer inspection. GameFront felt that the game's environments lacked a sense of an expansive world, and Shacknews found the structure of playing one world to completion and then moving on to make the worlds feel repetitive after a while. Additionally, the Toronto Sun mentioned that while the game had breathtaking visuals, the environments often felt empty and faceless. These criticisms highlight concerns about the depth and variety of the game's visuals. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Destiny has excellent graphics and visual design. The positive opinions outweigh the negative ones, with numerous critics praising the game's stunning vistas, attention to detail, and beautiful environments. The visuals were described as achingly gorgeous, with detailed landscapes, standout locations, and a sense of grandeur. The game's graphics were considered a major highlight, contributing to the overall immersive experience and adding to the game's appeal. Despite some reservations about the depth and variety of the environments, the majority of critics found the graphics and visual design of Destiny to be very good.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics widely praised Destiny's graphics as beautiful, stunning, and visually impressive, commending the sharpness, smoothness, and intricate detail. Some critics had reservations about the depth and variety of the visuals, but overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive with many lauding the game's stunning vistas, attention to detail, and immersive experience. Despite some criticisms, Destiny's graphics were considered a major highlight that added to the game's appeal.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the sound design and music of Destiny, with many considering it to be one of the best in the industry. ActionTrip commended the audio, stating that the soundtrack suited the mystical story overtones, with only a few exceptions. Game Over Online described the soundtrack as epic, while Hardcore Gamer called it one of the best ever in a video game. Gameplanet highlighted the strong resemblance to Halo's music, which is not surprising considering it was composed by Marty O'Donnell, the composer of Halo's score. PlayStation LifeStyle noted that the soundtrack pulled every moment in the game together, evoking the right emotions for each scenario. Slant Magazine praised the sound design for its aural weight and impact, with distinct sounds for each weapon, and described the score as a thing of magnificent beauty. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, there were a few criticisms regarding the sound design and music of Destiny. Toronto Sun mentioned that while the voice cast was excellent, the voice acting for the player's AI companion was lacking. This suggests that there might have been some inconsistencies in the overall voice acting quality. However, this was a minor issue compared to the overall positive feedback received. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Destiny were exceptional. The majority of the reviewers praised the soundtrack, with Game Informer even stating that it was one of the best in years. The sound design was highly regarded for its impact and aural weight, with distinct sounds for each weapon. The music was considered to be of high quality, with Marty O'Donnell's involvement adding to its appeal. The soundtrack was also praised for its ability to evoke the right emotions and react organically to the game's events. While there were some minor criticisms, they did not overshadow the overwhelmingly positive reception from the critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics raved about Destiny's exceptional sound design and music, with many calling it one of the best in the industry. The soundtrack was praised for its epic quality and ability to evoke the right emotions for each scenario. Despite minor criticisms, the majority agreed that Destiny's audio was top-notch, with distinct weapon sounds and a magnificent score.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

23%

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

The voice acting in Destiny receives mixed reviews from the critics. Some positive aspects of the voice acting include the high quality mentioned by Merlin'in Kazanı and the excellent voice cast mentioned by Toronto Sun. Additionally, Game Revolution highlights Peter Dinklage's performance as providing narrative teases throughout the game's first hours, suggesting that there are some standout moments in the voice acting. However, the majority of the critics express negative opinions about the voice acting in Destiny. Critical Hit describes it as bland and lacking personality, while Digital Spy mentions that the delivery of the story is stiff and unrelentingly serious, causing the reviewer to often tune out during cutscenes. GameCritics criticizes the AI companion's voice acting as flat and monotone, and Slant Magazine notes that big-name voices in the game are only heard when buying something or starting a mission, indicating a lack of meaningful engagement with the voice acting. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Destiny is subpar. The negative aspects outweigh the positive ones, with criticisms ranging from awkward and overly scripted performances, such as Peter Dinklage's Ghost mentioned by The Escapist, to wasted talent on inconsequential audio blurbs mentioned by GameCritics. The lack of characterization and development for certain characters, as well as insipid writing, further contribute to the overall disappointment in the voice acting. While there are a few standout moments and positive mentions, the general sentiment is that the voice acting in Destiny falls flat and fails to make the characters or story compelling, as mentioned by ZTGD.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Destiny. While some praise the high quality and standout performances, most criticize it as bland, lacking personality, and unengaging. Negative feedback focuses on stiff delivery, flat AI companion, and wasted talent, leading to an overall consensus that the voice acting falls flat and fails to make the characters or story compelling.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

In terms of the technical performance on the PS4, the majority of critics had positive opinions. Digital Spy praised the silky smooth action and stable servers during the launch week. Guardian also commended the smooth technical performance and stability, with only occasional server drop-outs. Hardcore Gamer had no mention of technical issues or stability problems, indicating a smooth experience. These positive reviews highlight the overall strong performance of Destiny on the PS4. However, there were some negative opinions regarding the technical performance on the PS4. Game Informer and Game Over Online both mentioned lengthy load times that could hinder the momentum of gameplay sessions. Merlin'in Kazanı reported bugs, issues, and low frame rates, suggesting technical shortcomings. games(TM) also expressed that Destiny felt unfinished, with noticeable gaps where future DLC would be added. These negative reviews indicate that there were some technical issues that affected the gameplay experience on the PS4. Overall, the consensus among critics for the technical performance of Destiny on the PS4 is mixed. While some reviewers praised the smooth action, stability, and lack of technical issues, others highlighted lengthy load times, clunky menus, bugs, and frame rate issues. The positive reviews from Digital Spy, Guardian, and Hardcore Gamer provide a strong foundation for the technical performance, but the negative reviews from Game Informer, Game Over Online, Merlin'in Kazanı, and games(TM) suggest that there were notable technical shortcomings on the PS4. Unfortunately, there is no specific information provided by the critics regarding the technical performance of Destiny on the Xbox One. The only mention of the Xbox One platform comes from Game Informer, who states that there are lengthy load times that can hinder the momentum of gameplay sessions. Without further reviews or opinions, it is difficult to provide a comprehensive analysis of the technical performance on the Xbox One.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed opinions on Destiny's technical performance on the PS4. Positive reviews praised smooth action and stability, while negative reviews pointed out lengthy load times and bugs. No specific information was provided for the Xbox One version.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

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 Destiny are varied, but there are several positive aspects that stand out. Many critics mention the availability of different game modes and activities that contribute to the game's replayability. ActionTrip, Cheat Code Central, Critical Hit, DarkZero, Game Informer, Game Over Online, Game Revolution, Gameplanet, Gamers' Temple, Gamestyle, Guardian, Hardcore Gamer, PlayStation LifeStyle, Quarter to Three, Shacknews, The Escapist, Toronto Sun, and Official Xbox Magazine UK all highlight the presence of multiple missions, strike teams, raids, and PvP options that provide players with a variety of gameplay experiences. The allure of loot and the ability to collect and modify weapons and gear are also mentioned by Cheat Code Central, Game Informer, Game Revolution, Gamestyle, Guardian, Hardcore Gamer, and The Escapist as positive factors contributing to the game's replay value. Additionally, the potential for future updates and DLC content, as mentioned by Gamestyle, PlayStation LifeStyle, and Slant Magazine, is seen as a promising aspect that could enhance the game's replayability. However, there are some negative points raised by a few critics. Digital Spy raises concerns about the game's ability to hold interest beyond the first week of gameplay, citing the need for better explanations of the endgame concept and new ways of leveling up. Destructoid mentions that while PvP is enjoyable and offers replay value, PvE is less enticing. VideoGamer criticizes the limited gametypes and maps, as well as frustrating loot drops. ZTGD points out the repetitive missions and lack of explanation for certain systems as potential drawbacks. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Destiny offers a decent amount of replay value. The game's various game modes, missions, and activities provide hours upon hours of gameplay, as mentioned by DarkZero, Gameplanet, and Gamers' Temple. The ability to farm items and cash, as noted by ActionTrip, and the enjoyment derived from strikes and raids, as highlighted by Critical Hit and Guardian, contribute to the game's replayability. The potential for future updates and DLC content, as mentioned by Gamestyle, PlayStation LifeStyle, and Slant Magazine, adds to the overall positive sentiment. However, there are concerns raised by some critics, such as the repetitive nature of certain missions and the lack of explanation for certain systems. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of critics find that Destiny offers enough content and activities to keep players engaged and coming back for more.

TL;DR

replay value

Destiny's replay value receives mixed reviews from critics. Many praise the variety of game modes, missions, and PvP options, as well as the allure of loot and customization. Potential updates and DLC content are seen as promising. However, some critics raise concerns about repetitive missions, lack of explanations, and limitations in PvE content. Overall, Destiny offers a decent amount of replay value with its diverse gameplay experiences and potential for continued engagement.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

47%

Mixed (50-79)

52%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple videogame reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Destiny, it is evident that there are both positive and negative aspects to the game. Many critics praise Destiny for its addictive gameplay, polished visuals, and enjoyable multiplayer experience. ActionTrip commends the game for its addictive loot hunt properties, while Cheat Code Central highlights its accessibility and enjoyable controls. DarkZero goes as far as to describe it as one of the best and most unique online multiplayer first-person shooters. These positive aspects contribute to the overall appeal of Destiny and make it an engaging experience for players. However, there are also several criticisms raised by the reviewers. One common complaint is the lack of a compelling story and meaningful narrative. Critical Hit mentions that the game feels like it could have been so much more, lacking depth in its characters and world. Game Over Online also criticizes Destiny for its lack of a coherent story, which falls short of expectations. Additionally, some critics, such as GameFront and Guardian, mention that the game lacks soul and fails to deliver an engaging narrative. These criticisms suggest that Destiny may not fully satisfy players looking for a strong storytelling experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Destiny has its strengths and weaknesses. While it is praised for its addictive gameplay, polished visuals, and enjoyable multiplayer experience, it falls short in terms of its narrative and storytelling. The Escapist acknowledges the poor writing and lack of originality in the story, but still recognizes the solid combat and personal improvements the game offers. Toronto Sun finds the game enjoyable despite its flaws and repetitiveness. This mixed reception suggests that Destiny may appeal more to players who prioritize gameplay mechanics and multiplayer experiences over a compelling narrative. However, there is also optimism among some critics, such as Gamestyle and PlayStation LifeStyle, who see the potential for Destiny to improve and evolve over time.

TL;DR

Destiny receives mixed reviews from critics. It's praised for addictive gameplay and visuals but criticized for a lackluster story. Some see potential for improvement, while others find it more appealing for gameplay than storytelling.

CRITIK

Reviews

150 reviews found

Cheat Code Central

PlayStation 4

Sep 10, 2014