CRITIK

Minecraft Legends

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, RPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 18, 2023

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

DeveloperMojang AB

Overview

You are the Avatar, the embodiment of light and peace, now in Minecraft! Master all four elements and learn new skills from Team Avatar and Team Korra. Meet up with Katara, Zuko, and others while completing quests, explore all four nations from the hit shows, and channel your inner bender with the skins of your favorite characters.

Elsewhere

7.3

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

68%

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 Minecraft Legends are varied, with some positive aspects highlighted. Critics like COGconnected and Game Revolution appreciate the overarching plot of saving the Overworld from Piglin invasions, providing a clear goal for players to work towards. Additionally, Digital Trends and IGN France praise the well-made cinematics that add a unique flair to the game, enhancing the storytelling experience. TheGamer and Pure Xbox commend the simplicity and engaging nature of the story, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience. The inclusion of diverse biomes, unexpected allies, and ethereal beings also adds depth to the narrative, as noted by GameGrin and Pure Xbox. On the other hand, some critics express negative sentiments towards the Story of Minecraft Legends. Gfinity criticizes the voice acting as designed for kids, which can become tiring, suggesting a lack of depth in the storytelling that may not appeal to all players. Inverse and Push Square highlight the lack of incentives and incomprehensible plot, indicating missed opportunities for a more engaging narrative experience. Additionally, Impulsegamer mentions a generic save-the-world plot, which, while serviceable, may not offer a truly innovative or captivating storyline for more seasoned players. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed reception of the Story of Minecraft Legends. While the game succeeds in presenting a fun and digestible plot with engaging elements like well-made cinematics and diverse biomes, it falls short in terms of depth and originality. Critics like The Loadout and Noisy Pixel appreciate the comedic and engaging nature of the story, while others like Gfinity and Inverse find it lacking in certain areas. Ultimately, the Story of Minecraft Legends seems to serve its purpose of providing an entertaining narrative for players, especially those looking for a lighter, more accessible storytelling experience within the Minecraft universe.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed feelings about the Story of Minecraft Legends. Some praise its clear goal of saving the Overworld and engaging cinematics, while others criticize the shallow storytelling and lack of depth. The game's simplicity and diverse elements appeal to some, but others find it lacking in incentives and originality. Overall, it offers a fun and accessible narrative, though not groundbreaking for all players.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

45%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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

The gameplay of Minecraft Legends has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers appreciate the blend of action and strategy elements in the game, with a focus on real-time strategy gameplay that involves resource gathering, base-building, and commanding troops. Critics like Digital Trends and Pure Xbox commend the intuitive controls and comprehensive tutorials that make the gameplay accessible to players. The ability to customize heroes, summon allies, and engage in tactical battles against Piglins adds depth to the gameplay experience. Additionally, the inclusion of multiplayer options, as highlighted by GameGrin and Pocket-lint, provides added challenge and variety to the gameplay. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay in Minecraft Legends. Issues such as repetitive tasks, convoluted mechanics, and clunky controls have been raised by reviewers like COGconnected and Screen Rant. The lack of granular control over units, as mentioned by Gfinity, and the overwhelming nature of defending villages against timed attacks, as noted by Xbox Tavern, contribute to a sense of frustration for some players. Furthermore, critics like NME and Nintendo Life criticize the cumbersome unit management and slow-paced combat, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Minecraft Legends leans towards a positive reception, with a few reservations. While the game successfully merges Minecraft's core gameplay loop with real-time strategy elements, offering a unique take on the franchise, there are concerns about the execution of certain mechanics and the level of depth in gameplay. Critics like But Why Tho?? and Game Informer appreciate the game's approachable nature and strategic choices it offers, while others, such as IGN France and The Loadout, highlight the need for improvements in controls and gameplay variety. Despite some criticisms, the majority of reviewers acknowledge the game's potential to appeal to fans of both action and strategy genres, providing an engaging and rewarding experience for players willing to delve into its blocky world of combat and resource management.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Minecraft Legends gameplay gets a mix of positive and negative feedback. Critics praise its blend of action and strategy elements, intuitive controls, and multiplayer options. However, concerns include repetitive tasks, clunky controls, and slow-paced combat. Overall, the game offers a unique take on the franchise with room for improvement in mechanics and depth, appealing to fans of action and strategy genres.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

39%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Minecraft Legends are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the game for maintaining the iconic blocky style of Minecraft while introducing new elements and structures that enhance the overall visual experience. Critics like COGconnected, Game Informer, and GameGrin highlighted the gorgeous environments, organic feel, and immersive visuals that stay true to the vibe of the original Minecraft game. Daily Star and Pocket-lint appreciated the vibrant and colorful visual design that adds charm and liveliness to the world, with charming animations and a polished visual experience. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation of Minecraft Legends. IGN France mentioned issues with camera angles and limited opportunities for creative construction, while The Loadout noted a lack of depth in terms of secrets and exploration. PCMag highlighted that while the game captures the Minecraft aesthetic well, it lacks a sense of discovery in its biomes and feels somewhat empty and lacking in depth. Nintendo Life's review on the Switch version mentioned performance issues like a shaky frame rate and struggles with environmental rendering, impacting visibility during fast movements. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Minecraft Legends excels in delivering a visually appealing experience that stays true to the beloved Minecraft universe. The game's commitment to the iconic blocky style, vibrant colors, and charming simplicity has been widely appreciated by critics such as Xbox Tavern, XboxEra, and GGRecon. Despite some minor issues like performance concerns on certain platforms and a perceived lack of depth in exploration, the majority of critics agree that Minecraft Legends successfully captures the essence of Minecraft while offering new and engaging visual elements that enhance the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics unanimously praise Minecraft Legends for its captivating graphics and visual design that stay true to the iconic blocky style of Minecraft. While some mention minor drawbacks like performance issues and limited exploration depth, the game's vibrant colors, charming animations, and immersive visuals have garnered widespread acclaim for enhancing the beloved Minecraft universe.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

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 Minecraft Legends are quite varied. Several critics praised the game for its sound design and music elements. Daily Star highlighted how the game incorporates music as a core mechanic, allowing players to control their army of Golems and Allays, which adds a unique and interactive aspect to the gameplay. Gaming Age appreciated the fitting music to various situations and ambient sounds while exploring, creating an immersive experience reminiscent of the original Minecraft game. Impulsegamer also commended the sound effects, music, and voice acting for complementing the overall gaming mechanics effectively. On the other hand, some critics had mixed feelings about the sound design and music of Minecraft Legends. GameGrin mentioned that while the ambient soundtrack and sound effects enhance the gameplay experience, there were instances where the excessive sound effects playing simultaneously could be overwhelming. Gfinity pointed out that the voice acting, designed for kids, could become tiring without mentioning other sound design elements. Inverse criticized the voice acting for sounding like it came out of The Mickey Mouse Club and the cutscenes for serving more as explanations rather than appealing to emotions. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side regarding the Sound Design and Music of Minecraft Legends. Critics like COGconnected, Daily Star, and TheSixthAxis appreciated the extensive voice acting, interactive music mechanics, and the unique approach to controlling the game through music. While there were some criticisms regarding certain aspects of the sound design and voice acting, the majority of critics, such as GAMINGbible and PCMag, found the sound and music elements to enhance the overall gaming experience. Minecraft Legends seems to have successfully integrated sound design and music to create an immersive and engaging world for players, despite some minor flaws noted by a few critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the sound design and music of Minecraft Legends. Some praised its interactive music mechanics and immersive experience, while others found the excessive sound effects and voice acting to be overwhelming and tiring. Overall, most critics appreciated the game's sound and music elements for enhancing the gaming experience, despite some minor flaws.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

The voice acting in Minecraft Legends has garnered a mix of opinions from critics. Critics like Gaming Age and Impulsegamer praised the voice work, with Gaming Age specifically mentioning that the speaking characters' voices were well done. IGN France highlighted the immersion and enjoyment brought by the full voice acting in the native language, adding to the overall experience of the game. XboxEra appreciated the fully voice-acted cutscenes, comparing them to the storytelling style seen in LEGO games. These positive aspects indicate that the voice acting in Minecraft Legends successfully enhances the narrative and engagement for players. On the other hand, there were criticisms regarding the voice acting in Minecraft Legends. COGconnected found the excessive pleasantness of the Hosts to be off-putting, indicating that the tone of the voice acting may not have resonated well with all players. Gfinity mentioned that the voice acting was designed for kids and could become tiring, suggesting that the style or delivery of the voices might not appeal to a broader audience. Inverse's comparison of the voice acting to The Mickey Mouse Club implies a lack of depth or maturity in the performances, which could potentially detract from the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Minecraft Legends is somewhat mixed. While some critics appreciated the quality of the voice work and its contribution to the game's immersion and storytelling, others found aspects of it to be off-putting or targeted towards a younger audience. The varying opinions indicate that the voice acting in Minecraft Legends may resonate differently with individual players based on their preferences and expectations. Despite some criticisms, the overall sentiment suggests that the voice acting plays a significant role in shaping the player experience in Minecraft Legends.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Minecraft Legends. Some praised the quality and immersion it brings to the game, while others found it off-putting and aimed at a younger audience. The voice work enhances the narrative and engagement for players, but its tone and style may not appeal to everyone. Overall, the impact of the voice acting in Minecraft Legends varies among players, shaping their individual experiences in the game.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of technical performance on the Xbox Series X, the majority of critics had positive experiences. IGN France praised the smooth performance on both PC and console, highlighting seamless controls and impressive graphical effects. Gamers Heroes also reported no technical problems, bugs, or frame drops while playing on the Xbox Series X. TheXboxHub appreciated the well-thought-out controls and the helpful tutorial for understanding gameplay mechanics. However, But Why Tho?? and Noisy Pixel both pointed out issues with pausing the game and the requirement of Xbox Live Gold for online play, impacting the technical performance aspect. On the Nintendo Switch, Switch Player noted several negatives regarding the technical performance of Minecraft Legends. They mentioned noticeable pop-in, long load times, and performance issues during high-intensity action moments. These issues could detract from the overall gaming experience on this platform. When it comes to PC, Inverse and PCGamesN had differing opinions on the technical performance of Minecraft Legends. Inverse reported smooth gameplay without any hiccups, while PCGamesN highlighted issues with mob pathfinding, controls sensitivity, and lack of explanation for important details. Twinfinite also mentioned wonky controls, especially when playing solo. These criticisms suggest that while the game runs smoothly on PC for some critics, others encountered technical challenges that impacted their enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed regarding the technical performance of Minecraft Legends across different gaming platforms. While some critics praised the smooth performance and controls, others pointed out issues such as pausing difficulties, performance issues, and control sensitivity problems. It seems that the technical performance of the game can vary depending on the platform, with some platforms offering a more seamless experience than others.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed opinions on the technical performance of Minecraft Legends. Positive feedback highlighted smooth gameplay and controls on Xbox Series X, while some critics noted issues like pausing difficulties and the need for Xbox Live Gold. On Nintendo Switch, performance problems like pop-in and long load times were mentioned. PC reviews varied, with some praising smooth gameplay while others criticized issues like control sensitivity. Overall, technical performance varied across platforms, impacting the gaming experience for critics.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

45%

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (0-49)

10%

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted the multiplayer modes as a key factor contributing to the replay value of Minecraft Legends. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN emphasized the engaging experiences offered by the multiplayer component, with unique challenges and the potential for endless tactics and adventures. Additionally, the co-op play and the ability to team up with friends in various modes, as mentioned by Gamers Heroes and Gamereactor UK, were seen as enhancing the replayability of the game. The monthly challenges and additional scenarios, such as the 'Lost Legends' mode, as noted by GamesRadar++ and TheSixthAxis, were also seen as adding variety and encouraging players to return to the game regularly. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain negatives that could impact the long-term replayability of Minecraft Legends. Game Rant criticized the limited scope and lack of depth in certain mechanics, which could potentially make the gameplay feel repetitive over time. TheGamer mentioned that the game lacks replay value once the campaign is completed, leading to an empty endgame experience. Nintendo Life highlighted issues such as repetition due to lack of enemy variety and unrewarding progression, which could hinder the overall replayability of the game. Overall, while there are differing opinions among critics regarding the replay value of Minecraft Legends, the general consensus leans towards the multiplayer modes and co-op play as the main drivers of replayability. Critics like IGN France and XboxEra praised the multiplayer component for offering a fun and engaging experience, recommending it as the best way to enjoy the game in the long run. Despite some concerns about repetitive gameplay and lack of depth in certain aspects, the overall sentiment suggests that Minecraft Legends manages to provide a decent level of replay value through its diverse multiplayer options and regular content updates, making it an enjoyable experience for players looking for cooperative and competitive gameplay.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about the engaging multiplayer modes in Minecraft Legends, praising the endless tactics and adventures they offer. While some point out limited mechanics and lack of enemy variety as drawbacks, the consensus is that multiplayer and co-op play drive the game's replay value. Regular updates and diverse challenges keep players coming back for more cooperative and competitive fun.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The positive aspects of Minecraft Legends, as highlighted by several critics, include its fun and versatile gameplay suitable for various modes, especially when playing with friends. Critics like But Why Tho?? and Gamers Heroes commend the game for being enjoyable, accessible, and lighthearted, making it a blast to play, particularly in co-op. The game's visuals, charm, and engaging multiplayer experiences are also praised by critics such as XboxEra and Pure Xbox, who appreciate its surprising depth and well-thought-out controls. Additionally, the game is recognized for successfully adapting the Minecraft universe into an action strategy game, offering a graceful expansion of the popular franchise with a fun multiplayer experience, as noted by Pocket-lint and Game Informer. On the other hand, negative aspects of Minecraft Legends, as pointed out by critics, include issues with controls, tedious gameplay, limited resources, and a lack of depth in certain areas. COGconnected criticizes the game for difficult controls, while The Loadout mentions concerns about the control scheme and combat system not convincing all players, leading to a lack of complexity and depth. Critics like Nintendo Life and Switch Player express disappointment in the frustrating controls, poor AI, and repetitive gameplay, stating that the game falls short of the quality expected from the Minecraft brand and lacks substance to stand out in the strategy genre. PCMag also highlights the flawed gameplay mechanics and lack of depth in the open world, considering it a missed opportunity that may require significant improvements for a compelling real-time strategy experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Minecraft Legends is mixed, with a leaning towards positive feedback. While the game is praised for its fun and engaging multiplayer experiences, charming visuals, and accessible gameplay, there are concerns about its depth, repetitive nature, and limitations in certain aspects. Critics like IGN France and GameStar appreciate the game for delivering a solid RTS experience with captivating visuals and cooperative gameplay, appealing to a broad range of players. However, some critics, such as TheGamer and Screen Rant, feel that the game lacks content, strategic depth, or fails to fully realize its potential, making it more suitable for hardcore fans of the Minecraft universe or newcomers to the strategy genre. Ultimately, Minecraft Legends seems to offer a unique blend of action and strategy within the beloved blocky world of Minecraft, catering to different player preferences but with room for improvement in certain areas to reach its full potential.

TL;DR

Critics praise Minecraft Legends for its fun gameplay, charming visuals, and engaging multiplayer experiences, especially in co-op mode. However, concerns arise about issues with controls, repetitive gameplay, and lack of depth. While some appreciate its adaptation of the Minecraft universe into an action strategy game, others find it lacking in substance and complexity. Overall, the game receives mixed reviews, with positive feedback on its accessibility and multiplayer fun, but criticism for its limitations and repetitive nature.

CRITIK

Reviews

139 reviews found

100

Daily Star

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

The review gives the game a 5/5 verdict, praising it as fun, welcoming, and endlessly difficult to master.

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Game Rant

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is praised for being a bold and exciting new direction for the franchise, offering an approachable and captivating experience. Despite some limitations in scope and gameplay depth, the game is considered compelling and enjoyable.

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Gamers Heroes

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is a blast to play, especially in co-op. It is recommended for Minecraft fans or those looking for a fun and chill game to play with a friend.

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GameStar

Apr 14, 2023

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

The game is enjoyable with its cooperative gameplay and replayability.

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Noisy Pixel

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends offers an enjoyable and addictive RTS experience with a mix of Minecraft charm, challenging gameplay, and expanded lore, more suitable for older fans due to complexity.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Apr 18, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is praised for its visuals, simplicity, and the multiplayer experience. However, the limited role of the main character and the inability to separate units into mixed groups are mentioned as downsides.

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NME

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is described as a highly accessible strategy game that is a great introduction to the genre. The PvP mode is highlighted as the most enticing aspect of the game.

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IGN France

Xbox Series X

Apr 16, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends successfully adapts the franchise into a new genre, delivering a solid RTS experience with captivating visuals, engaging gameplay mechanics, and substantial content for long-term player engagement.

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Pocket-lint

Xbox Series X

Jun 23, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is a graceful expansion of the popular franchise, offering a great on-ramp for younger players to explore the real-time strategy genre with charming visuals and a fun gameplay experience.

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TheSixthAxis

Xbox Series X

Apr 14, 2023

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

Minecraft Legends is a creative RTS-like game that takes what you know about Minecraft and twists it into a new shape. It offers an enjoyable gameplay experience with a new narrative set in the beloved block-land.

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