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CRITIK

Mirror's Edge Catalyst

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Mirror's Edge Catalyst
Item: Mirror's Edge Catalyst
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2016

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Fighting, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableJun 7, 2016

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

DeveloperEA DICE

Overview

Mirror's Edge Catalyst is an action-adventure game and the prequel to Mirror's Edge. The story in the game explores the past of the protagonist Faith. Like in the previous game, the main gameplay in Mirror's Edge Catalyst involves traversing the city using parkour to reach certain objectives. Unlike the linear levels in Mirror's Edge, Mirror's Edge Catalyst features an open-world free-roaming environment. Combat has been overhauled and emphasized compared to the first game and Catalyst no longer allows the player to use weapons, instead focusing on melee attacks.

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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)

66%

Negative (0-49)

25%

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

The story of Mirror's Edge Catalyst received some positive feedback from critics. Game Over Online praised the engaging narrative that kept players interested until the end, with well-developed characters like Faith Connors adding depth to the story. Cheat Code Central highlighted the interesting dystopian future setting and the protagonist Faith's role as a runner living outside the system, which helped maintain the game's momentum. Gamer.no also commended the engaging storyline, mentioning corrupt power and mysterious conspiracies that created a strong connection to Faith Connors. On the negative side, multiple critics expressed disappointment with the story of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Wccftech, GameSpew, and PCGamesN criticized the narrative for being unoriginal, lacking depth, and featuring shallow characters with a tired plot. Destructoid and GameCritics found the characters insufferable and the story predictable, while ActionTrip pointed out the lack of heart and joy in the narrative. Critics like IGN and Gameplanet echoed similar sentiments, mentioning thin, predictable plots with unlikable characters and a lack of humor, making the overall experience a letdown. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a general disappointment with the story of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. While some reviewers appreciated elements like engaging narratives and well-developed characters, the majority found the plot to be lacking in originality, depth, and character development. The predictable nature of the story, coupled with unlikable characters and a lack of emotional impact, contributed to a sense of missed potential and unfulfilled storytelling opportunities. Despite a few positive remarks, such as the connection to the protagonist and engaging setting, the overall sentiment suggests that the story of Mirror's Edge Catalyst failed to resonate with most critics, ultimately falling short of expectations.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on Mirror's Edge Catalyst's story. Some praise the engaging narrative and well-developed characters like Faith Connors, while others criticize it for being unoriginal, lacking depth, and featuring unlikable characters with a predictable plot. Overall, most critics were disappointed with the story, citing missed potential and unfulfilled storytelling opportunities.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

51%

Mixed (50-79)

46%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Mirror's Edge Catalyst has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the game for its fluid and exhilarating parkour mechanics. Critics like Gameplanet and GameStar highlighted the free-flowing first-person parkour mechanics, with Faith's movements feeling impactful and building momentum. The open-world design was also commended for allowing freedom to explore and offering challenging routes that require precision and practice, as noted by Time. On the other hand, several critics criticized the combat mechanics of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. The combat was described as weak, repetitive, and lacking depth by reviewers such as The Jimquisition and Cheat Code Central. The limited options and unsatisfying mechanics of combat were a common point of contention among critics, with some feeling that it disrupted the movement and flow of the game, as mentioned by Attack of the Fanboy. Additionally, the first-person viewpoint and 'Runner's Vision' mechanic were noted to present challenges in judging distances and following paths, leading to frustration in timed challenges, as remarked by Post Arcade. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Mirror's Edge Catalyst leans towards a game that excels in parkour and traversal mechanics but falls short in combat execution. While the smooth controls, exhilarating movement, and open-world exploration were highlighted as strengths by reviewers like IGN and Worth Playing, the clunky and repetitive combat was a common critique raised by multiple critics. The game's focus on precision platforming over combat was appreciated by some, but the inclusion of combat was considered inept and damaging to the overall experience by others, as mentioned by PCGamesN. Despite the divisive opinions on combat, Mirror's Edge Catalyst is generally praised for its core parkour gameplay and level design, offering a unique and immersive experience for players who enjoy free-running and exploration in a futuristic cityscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Mirror's Edge Catalyst's gameplay receives mixed reviews. Critics praise its fluid parkour mechanics and open-world design for offering freedom and challenge. However, the combat is criticized for being weak and disrupting the flow of the game. Overall, the game excels in parkour but falls short in combat execution, with a divisive reception among critics.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Mirror's Edge Catalyst have received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Several reviewers praised the game for its stunning and immersive world design. Critics like M3 and Digital Chumps appreciated the polished and eye-catching style of the graphics, with Digital Chumps specifically highlighting the sophisticated and stylish design of the rooftops, buildings, and environments in the City of Glass. The use of vibrant colors, distinct districts, and a futuristic aesthetic, as mentioned by Game Debate and Twinfinite, contributed to creating a visually appealing and unique world for players to explore. On the other hand, there were notable criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Several critics pointed out technical issues such as texture pop-ins, frame rate dips, aliasing, and blurry images that detracted from the overall visual experience. GameSpew and Impulsegamer highlighted problems like blurry NPC faces, muddy textures, and repetitive visuals that affected the immersion in the game world. IGN Sweden also mentioned graphical issues but acknowledged the improved mechanics in the game. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Mirror's Edge Catalyst leans towards a mixed reception. While the game was praised for its distinct art direction, vibrant cityscape, and sleek architectural design, it also faced criticism for technical shortcomings, lack of variety in visuals, and occasional graphical glitches. The minimalist Scandinavian design, dazzling lighting effects, and stunning vistas were highlighted as strengths by PCGamesN and Shacknews. However, the presence of graphical bugs, inconsistent texture quality, and a sense of sterility in the cityscape were noted as areas for improvement. Despite the divided opinions, it is evident that Mirror's Edge Catalyst managed to create a visually striking world that captivated some critics with its aesthetic appeal while leaving others wanting more in terms of graphical refinement and consistency.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics have mixed feelings about the graphics in Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Some praise its stunning world design, vibrant colors, and futuristic aesthetic, while others criticize technical issues like texture pop-ins and blurry visuals. The game's distinct art direction and sleek architecture earn it praise, but inconsistencies in texture quality and graphical bugs leave room for improvement.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

70%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

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 Mirror's Edge Catalyst are overwhelmingly positive. Multiple reviewers praised the game for its immersive sound design and ambient soundtrack that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Critics like Twinfinite and Gameplanet highlighted the stellar sound design, with detailed sound effects that contribute to player immersion in the dystopian setting of the game. Additionally, critics such as Arcade Sushi and Worth Playing commended the ambient-themed score and diegetic effects that bring the city of Glass to life, making it as much of an aural spectacle as a visual one. The minimalistic approach to the soundtrack during platforming segments, as noted by Easy Allies and Gaming Nexus, was also well-received for its ability to match the tone and pace of the game. On the flip side, some critics expressed mixed feelings about certain aspects of the Sound Design and Music in Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Easy Allies mentioned that while the soundtrack featured trance-style tracks during action sequences, the new theme song was not as memorable as the original. GameSpew also noted that while the soundtrack was atmospheric and complimentary to the game, it did not reach the heights of the original Mirror's Edge tracks. Additionally, USgamer pointed out that while the sound design emphasized Faith's sense of speed, it did not stand out in any other significant way. These criticisms suggest that while the overall audio experience was positive, there were some elements that fell short of expectations or failed to leave a lasting impression on certain reviewers. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of Mirror's Edge Catalyst greatly contribute to the immersive and adrenaline-pumping experience of the game. The majority of reviewers appreciated the attention to detail in the sound effects, the fitting soundtrack that complements the gameplay, and the overall enhancement of the futuristic parkour experience. Critics like Game Over Online and GRYOnline.pl praised the music for complementing the fast-paced action and adding to the overall atmosphere of the game. Despite some minor criticisms regarding memorability and standout elements, the general sentiment is that the audio aspect of Mirror's Edge Catalyst is a strong component that successfully immerses players in the world of Glass and enhances the thrill of the gameplay.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics widely praise Mirror's Edge Catalyst for its immersive sound design and ambient soundtrack that enhance gameplay. The detailed sound effects and diegetic effects bring the dystopian setting of the game to life. While some critics had mixed feelings about certain aspects like the memorability of the new theme song, the overall consensus is that the sound design and music greatly contribute to the adrenaline-pumping experience of the game, immersing players in the futuristic parkour world of Glass.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

86%

Negative (0-49)

14%

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

The voice acting in Mirror's Edge Catalyst received mixed reviews from critics. Some positive aspects highlighted by the critics include Digitally Downloaded's opinion that the voice actors put in a good effort, adding charm and direction to the game despite the stereotypical characters. GameStar also praised the German voice acting, mentioning that it helped in engagingly telling the story and bringing the characters to life. Vandal specifically noted that the Spanish voice acting added to the immersive experience, showcasing a positive aspect of the voice work in the game. On the flip side, several critics pointed out negative aspects of the voice acting in Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Digital Spy and The Jimquisition criticized the lack of personality and likability in the characters, with Digital Spy specifically mentioning that the characters felt bland. The Jimquisition further criticized the narrative as vague and insipidly written, with generic stock characters and a protagonist lacking in personality. ZTGD highlighted that while the voice acting itself wasn't terrible, the stale writing did more harm than good, indicating a disconnect between the performances and the quality of the script. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a more negative perception of the voice acting in Mirror's Edge Catalyst. The lack of depth and personality in the characters, as highlighted by critics like Digital Spy and The Jimquisition, seems to overshadow the efforts of the voice actors in bringing them to life. While there were some positive mentions of specific language dubs adding to the immersive experience, the general sentiment points towards a disconnect between the voice acting and the overall storytelling and character development in the game. This mixed reception indicates that while the voice acting had its moments of charm and engagement, it ultimately fell short in creating a truly captivating experience for the players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics had mixed feelings about the voice acting in Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Some praised the effort and charm of the actors, especially in certain language dubs, while others criticized the lack of personality and depth in the characters. Overall, the consensus leans towards negativity, with the writing overshadowing the performances and failing to create a captivating experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

10%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

29%

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

In terms of the positives for each gaming platform, Mirror's Edge Catalyst on PS4 was praised by LaPS4 for its solid technical performance with only minor visual glitches. Push Square also highlighted that the framerate stood up quite well on the PS4, with fluctuations not significant enough to detract from the gameplay. On Xbox One, GameSpot noted that the final version of the game ran smoother than the beta, with reasonable load times and minimal impact from technical hiccups like frame rate dips and glitches. We Got This Covered appreciated the game targeting 60 frames per second on Xbox One, resulting in a visually smoother experience compared to the original game. However, when it comes to the negatives for each gaming platform, several critics pointed out technical issues with Mirror's Edge Catalyst on both PS4 and Xbox One. IGN highlighted texture quality issues and frequent frame rate dips on both console versions. On PS4, Metro GameCentral mentioned graphical and audio bugs, while on Xbox One, Attack of the Fanboy reported pop-in textures, geometry anomalies, character getting stuck, and crashes to the dashboard. GameStar specifically noted performance issues on PC, including frame drops, stuttering, asynchrony between audio and visuals, and texture loading problems, which could impact the overall gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the technical performance of Mirror's Edge Catalyst is mixed. While some like LaPS4 and Push Square found the PS4 version to have solid performance with minor issues, others like IGN and Metro GameCentral highlighted various technical problems on both PS4 and Xbox One. The PC version faced its own set of challenges, as noted by GameStar and GamesBeat. Despite these technical issues across platforms, some critics appreciated specific aspects such as the smooth framerate on Xbox One mentioned by GameSpew and the customizable graphics settings on PC as highlighted by PC Games. Ultimately, the technical performance of Mirror's Edge Catalyst received a varied reception among critics, with both positives and negatives impacting the overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed views on the technical performance of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. While some praised the solid performance and smooth framerate on PS4 and Xbox One, others pointed out issues like texture quality, frame rate dips, and bugs on both consoles. The PC version also faced performance challenges. Overall, opinions varied, with some appreciating specific features like customizable graphics settings, but technical issues impacted the gameplay experience across platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

18%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted the variety of side missions, challenges, and collectibles in Mirror's Edge Catalyst that provide additional content and opportunities for replay. Critics like Wccftech praised the game for offering replay value through Time trials, puzzle sections, and collection quests, with the asynchronous multiplayer aspect adding to the overall replayability factor. Additionally, Gameplanet noted the character progression tree and GridNode missions as providing additional challenges that enhance the replay value of the game. The progression systems, such as the upgrade paths for movement, combat skills, and gear, as mentioned by Windows Central, were also seen as positive aspects that added depth to the gameplay experience. On the negative side, critics pointed out several drawbacks that could impact the replay value of Mirror's Edge Catalyst. The game was criticized for its repetitive nature, with limited flexibility in missions and combat lacking variety. The narrative was deemed uninteresting and lacking incentive for replayability, as highlighted by The Jimquisition. Game Over Online mentioned that the user-generated content was limited to sign-posts and Time trials, offering little replay value beyond completion for achievements. Some critics, like GameStar, mentioned the lack of exploration opportunities and linear mission structures as limiting factors that could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Mirror's Edge Catalyst leans towards a mixed reception. While the game offers a variety of side activities, challenges, and collectibles that can extend the playtime and provide additional content for players, the repetitive nature of some quests and lack of unique landmarks may impact long-term engagement, as noted by IGN. Critics like Digital Chumps and Destructoid appreciated the amount of content and replayability the game offers, with endless free-running and collectibles adding to its appeal. However, the lack of liveliness and interaction with non-playable characters, as mentioned by PlaySense, and the extraneous feeling of some activities, as highlighted by Digital Chumps, may deter certain players from fully embracing the replay value of the game. Ultimately, while Mirror's Edge Catalyst has its strengths in providing diverse activities and challenges for players to engage with, its shortcomings in terms of repetitive gameplay elements and limited exploration opportunities may affect its overall replayability for a wider audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Mirror's Edge Catalyst offers diverse side missions and challenges, enhancing replay value, with praise for time trials and character progression. However, criticisms include repetitive gameplay, uninteresting narrative, and limited exploration opportunities, leading to a mixed reception among critics on its replayability. While some appreciate the content and challenges, issues like lack of variety and engagement may deter some players from fully embracing the game's replay value.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

28%

Mixed (50-79)

72%

Negative (0-49)

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst has been praised by several critics for its strengths in free-flowing parkour gameplay, stunning visual design, and immersive sound design. Gameplanet commends the game for its "free-flowing parkour gameplay, stunning visual design, immersive sound design, and replayable side missions," highlighting the engaging experience it offers to players. Digital Chumps also appreciates the game's unique focus on movement and momentum, providing a distinct experience in the open-world genre. Worth Playing acknowledges the game's intriguing platforming-heavy experience with enjoyable traversal mechanics, giving it a score of 7.5/10 for its captivating story, immersive visuals, and dynamic soundtrack. On the flip side, Mirror's Edge Catalyst has faced criticism for its weak storytelling, uninteresting characters, and lackluster combat mechanics. Metro GameCentral points out the uninteresting storytelling and simplistic combat, leading to a rating of 6/10 for the game. IGN Sweden notes that the game falls short in terms of character development and storytelling, highlighting areas where it could have improved. GameSpot mentions clunky combat mechanics and an unremarkable story as drawbacks, despite the game excelling in precision platforming gameplay and replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Mirror's Edge Catalyst is mixed. While some critics like Gameplanet and Digital Chumps appreciate the game's strengths in gameplay and visual design, others like Metro GameCentral and GameSpot find fault in its storytelling and combat mechanics. The game seems to have divided opinions, with some praising it for its unique experience and improved gameplay mechanics, while others feel it falls short of expectations set by its predecessor. Mirror's Edge Catalyst appears to be a game that may appeal to fans of the series and players intrigued by its concept, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for a flawless experience.

TL;DR

Mirror's Edge Catalyst impresses with its dynamic parkour gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design, earning praise from Gameplanet and Digital Chumps. However, critics like Metro GameCentral and GameSpot criticize its weak storytelling and lackluster combat mechanics. The game polarizes opinions, with some lauding its unique experience and improved gameplay, while others find it lacking compared to its predecessor. Mirror's Edge Catalyst offers a captivating but imperfect experience that may appeal to series fans and those intrigued by its concept.

CRITIK

Reviews

165 reviews found

PC Games

Jun 9, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge: Catalyst is a worthy successor that captures the essence of the original game while offering improved gameplay and expanded content, providing an engaging experience with captivating story, immersive visuals, and dynamic soundtrack.

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XGN

PlayStation 4

Jun 6, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst offers an engaging experience for players who enjoy parkour and exploration in a dystopian setting. Well-developed characters, smooth freerunning mechanics, and engaging combat sequences make it worth the wait despite some drawbacks.

Destructoid

Xbox One

Jun 2, 2016

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

Despite initial difficulties adjusting to changes from the original game, Mirror's Edge Catalyst is ultimately adored by players.

GameCritics

PlayStation 4

Jun 12, 2016

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

Catalyst fixes nearly everything wrong with the original game and expands the world, making traversal faster and more exciting. However, the convoluted story and characters hold it back from reaching masterpiece status.

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Gaming Nexus

Xbox One

Jun 6, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst is worth the wait for fans of the series. The open world and improved gameplay make it a game-changer. Despite some minor issues, it is a highly enjoyable experience.

Arcade Sushi

Xbox One

Jun 6, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst expands on the original formula, making the sequel feel fresh and necessary, despite some padding in optional missions. It reminds players why they fell in love with the concept and why the series is revered.

LaPS4

PlayStation 4

Jun 6, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst successfully builds upon the original's foundation while introducing new elements, delivering thrilling moments and high-altitude missions in a unique and immersive gaming adventure.

Telegraph

Xbox One

Jun 9, 2016

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

The review overall praises Mirror's Edge Catalyst for its exhilarating gameplay, stunning graphics, and replayability, but criticizes the combat and interruptions that hinder the running experience.

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Gamer.no

PlayStation 4

Jun 26, 2016

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

Visually striking and exhilarating experience with dynamic gameplay and compelling narrative, despite some flaws.

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Push Square

PlayStation 4

Jun 6, 2016

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

Mirror's Edge Catalyst successfully builds upon the fun, free running gameplay of the original to deliver exhilarating, high-altitude action. The combat, story, and characters stumble occasionally, but it never actually falls.

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