Links

CRITIK

Observation

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

2019

GenresAdventure, Indie, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Horror, Simulation, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMay 21, 2019

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperNo Code

Overview

Observation is a sci-fi thriller uncovering what happened to Dr. Emma Fisher, and the crew of her mission, through the lens of the station’s artificial intelligence S.A.M.

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the story of Observation for being intriguing, well-crafted, and compelling. Critics like CGMagazine and COGconnected highlighted the surprising twists and thrilling elements of the narrative. Game Informer and GameSpot commended the constant twists and unsettling questions that kept players engaged, while GameSpew and God is a Geek found the story gripping and emotionally investing. The unique perspective of playing as an AI system, as noted by TheSixthAxis and USgamer, added a fresh and immersive element to the storytelling. The relationship between the main characters, particularly Dr. Emma Fisher and the AI system, was a standout feature that resonated with many critics, as mentioned by Game Informer and The Indie Game Website. On the other hand, some critics, such as Metro GameCentral and Gameplanet, felt that the story lacked originality and depth, with predictable and unsatisfying elements. Metro GameCentral specifically mentioned two-dimensional characters and an abrupt ending as drawbacks. DarkStation pointed out that while the premise was promising, the gameplay aspects diluted the mystery, potentially impacting the overall storytelling experience. Additionally, PlayStation Country highlighted moments where the lack of information could stump players, potentially hindering the flow of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the story of Observation. The majority of reviewers found the narrative to be engaging, mysterious, and emotionally impactful. The blend of sci-fi, horror, and mystery elements, as noted by Hardcore Gamer, Impulsegamer, and Twinfinite, contributed to a tense and enthralling atmosphere throughout the game. The storytelling was commended for its originality, compelling twists, and the way it subverted traditional tropes, making Observation a standout experience for players seeking a thought-provoking and immersive narrative journey. Despite some minor criticisms regarding predictability and pacing, the overall sentiment is that Observation delivers a captivating and well-crafted story that resonated positively with the majority of critics.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics overwhelmingly praised Observation for its intriguing, well-crafted, and emotionally engaging story, with highlights on surprising twists and compelling characters like Dr. Emma Fisher and the AI system. While some critics found aspects lacking in originality and depth, the majority agreed that the blend of sci-fi, horror, and mystery elements created a tense and enthralling narrative experience. Observation stands out as a thought-provoking and immersive journey that delivers a captivating and well-crafted story, despite minor criticisms.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Observation has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the unique and engaging nature of the gameplay, highlighting the innovative concept of controlling an AI system to assist the human characters on the space station. Critics like 3DJuegos and God is a Geek appreciated the distinctiveness of the gameplay, with tasks ranging from operating cameras to solving puzzles that require attention and occasional squinting, adding tension and immersion to the experience. The ability to interact with various computer functions and systems, as mentioned by Guardian and Easy Allies, was also commended for its intuitive and engaging nature. The puzzles, although challenging at times, were mostly rewarding and helped maintain player involvement in the ongoing plot, as noted by CGMagazine and Game Informer. On the flip side, some critics expressed concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay in Observation. Reviewers like DarkStation and Metro GameCentral criticized the puzzles for being tedious, dull, and lacking meaningful interaction, which could lead to moments of frustration and disengagement for players. The slow pacing, lack of clear instructions, and repetitive nature of some puzzles, as highlighted by PlayStation Country and Gameplanet, were also cited as drawbacks that hindered the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, the controls for certain elements, such as the Guidance Sphere, were mentioned by Twinfinite as weighty and hard to control, impacting the player's ability to navigate through the space station effectively. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Observation leans towards the positive side, with many appreciating the game's unique premise and engaging puzzle mechanics. While there were criticisms regarding the tediousness of some puzzles and control issues, the majority of reviewers found the gameplay to be immersive, challenging, and well-designed. The blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and interaction with the environment through cameras and electronic systems, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it and PC Gamer, contributed to a compelling and atmospheric experience for players. Observation succeeds in offering a fresh perspective on gameplay mechanics by putting players in the role of an AI assistant, creating a sense of immersion and involvement in the unfolding narrative, as acknowledged by Worth Playing and The Overpowered Noobs.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Observation's gameplay has received mixed reviews, with critics praising its unique AI-controlled mechanics and engaging puzzles, while some found certain aspects tedious and frustrating. Overall, the majority of reviewers appreciated the immersive experience, innovative concept, and challenging gameplay despite some flaws in puzzle design and controls.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

83%

Mixed (50-79)

18%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Observation, highlighting various positive aspects. Critics like 3DJuegos, Game Informer, and IGN appreciated the level of detail and lighting, creating a sense of tension and immersion within the space station. The realistic portrayal of the station, atmospheric audio design, and the use of lighting techniques to enhance the horror element were commended by Digital Chumps, GameGrin, and GameSpot. Additionally, the retro science fiction aesthetic, reminiscent of classic movies like '2001: A Space Odyssey,' was well-received by critics such as God is a Geek and Stevivor. The game's ability to evoke a sense of isolation and claustrophobia through its visuals, as noted by The Indie Game Website and TheSixthAxis, further contributed to the positive reception. On the downside, some critics pointed out certain issues with the Graphics and Visual Design of Observation. Cultured Vultures mentioned a lack of emotional investment in the environment despite acknowledging the station's gorgeous and highly detailed design. GameGrin and PlayStation Universe highlighted animation issues with human characters, noting that some models appeared rigid and manakin-like. Push Square and Cubed3 specifically mentioned problems with lip-syncing and facial design, respectively, as areas that could have been improved for a more cohesive visual experience. Additionally, Wccftech and We Got This Covered brought up concerns about framerate hiccups, glitching, and tearing during cutscenes, affecting the overall immersion and polish of the graphics. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Observation. The game was widely praised for its impressive presentation, detailed space station interiors, and atmospheric effects that effectively immerse players in a realistic sci-fi environment. The blend of low-fi aesthetics with high attention to detail, as highlighted by AusGamers and Impulsegamer, contributed to the overall positive reception. While some minor issues such as animation problems and technical glitches were mentioned by a few critics, the general sentiment is that Observation successfully delivers a visually stunning and immersive experience that captures the essence of a space station setting through a retro-futuristic lens.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics laud Observation for its stunning Graphics and Visual Design, praising the detail, lighting, and horror elements that create tension and immersion in the space station. Despite some issues like lack of emotional investment, animation problems, and technical glitches, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Observation effectively blends retro sci-fi aesthetics with attention to detail, offering a visually stunning and immersive experience of a realistic sci-fi environment.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics who reviewed Observation praised its sound design and music, highlighting how these elements greatly contributed to the overall atmosphere and immersion of the game. Critics like 3DJuegos, GameSpot, and Push Square commended the well-executed sound effects and minimalist soundtrack that enhanced the tension and eerie ambiance within the space station. Additionally, reviewers such as AusGamers and The Overpowered Noobs appreciated the haunting and evocative nature of the sound design, which added to the immersive experience of the game. The use of ambient music, atmospheric rumble, and carefully crafted sound effects were noted to effectively build suspense and maintain a sense of isolation, as mentioned by PC Gamer and Gameplanet. While the majority of critics had positive feedback regarding the sound design and music of Observation, there were a few minor criticisms mentioned by some reviewers. IGN pointed out that while the sound design was exquisite, the human character modeling and lip syncing fell short, slightly detracting from the overall experience. USgamer mentioned that the score felt beautiful yet unfocused at times, leading to moments of eerie silence that may have disrupted the immersion for some players. These critiques suggest that while the sound design and music were generally well-received, there were some areas where improvements could have been made to enhance the overall cohesion of the audio elements in the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Observation. The atmospheric audio design, tense sound effects, and immersive soundtrack were highlighted as key strengths of the game by multiple reviewers, such as God is a Geek, GameCritics, and Hardcore Gamer. The way in which the sound design and music worked together to create a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere was widely praised, with critics noting how these elements effectively heightened the player's sense of being in a mysterious and foreboding space station. The collective opinion of the critics indicates that Observation succeeded in delivering a highly engaging audio experience that significantly enhanced the overall narrative and gameplay, making it a standout feature of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about Observation's stellar sound design and music, praising the chilling atmosphere it creates. While some minor flaws were noted, like issues with character modeling and occasional unfocused scoring, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The haunting sound effects and immersive soundtrack effectively build suspense and enhance the sense of isolation within the space station, making Observation a standout audio experience that elevates the game's narrative and gameplay.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

85%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of the videogame critics regarding the voice acting in Observation, it is evident that the majority of reviewers had positive feedback on this aspect of the game. Critics such as COGconnected, God is a Geek, and TheXboxHub praised the voice acting, with descriptions ranging from "great" to "brilliant." The English voice acting was highlighted as contributing to the immersive experience, enhancing the emotional depth of the characters, and adding intensity to the overall narrative, as noted by 3DJuegos, IGN, and PC Gamer. On the other hand, there were some mixed opinions regarding specific aspects of the voice acting in Observation. DarkStation criticized the voice acting of the character Emma, mentioning inconsistencies and awkward delivery. However, this seems to be an outlier, as most critics, like Guardian and Push Square, found the voice acting for Emma and other characters to be strong, likable, and effectively conveying a range of emotions. Cubed3 pointed out that the emotional voice acting compensated for any shortcomings in facial design, indicating a level of immersion maintained through the voice performances. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Observation. The majority of reviewers found the voice acting to be exceptional, with standout performances contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere and storytelling. The voices of characters like Emma and the AI companion SAM were highlighted for their ability to engage players and bring humanity to the narrative, as emphasized by Worth Playing. The voice acting was considered a key element in shaping the player's connection to the story and enhancing the overall quality of the game, as echoed by The Overpowered Noobs and We Got This Covered. In conclusion, while there were minor criticisms, the general sentiment is that the voice acting in Observation was very good and played a crucial role in elevating the gaming experience for many critics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics rave about the exceptional voice acting in Observation, with praise for its immersive experience, emotional depth, and intense narrative. While some had mixed opinions on specific aspects like Emma's voice acting, the majority found the performances to be strong, likable, and engaging. Overall, reviewers agree that the voice acting significantly enhances the game's atmosphere, storytelling, and player connection, making it a key element in elevating the overall gaming experience.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

100%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance on PS4, GameSpot and Wccftech both noted some minor issues such as framerate hiccups and a glitch that required a quick checkpoint reset. However, GameSpot mentioned that overall, the technical performance seemed stable with only minor issues. This indicates that the game generally runs smoothly on the PS4 platform. Additionally, The Overpowered Noobs playing on PC also highlighted minor bugs like flickering objects and clipping in cutscenes but stated that these did not significantly impact the gameplay experience. These positive aspects suggest that the game performs well on both PS4 and PC, with only minor technical issues. On the other hand, there were some negative aspects of the technical performance on PS4 and PC. PlayStation Country mentioned multiple UI problems, including elements remaining on screen when they should have vanished, and infrequent autosaves causing inconvenience on the PS4 platform. This indicates that there are some technical issues affecting the user interface and save system on PS4. The Overpowered Noobs playing on PC also reported flickering objects and clipping in cutscenes, which although not game-breaking, can detract from the overall experience. These technical issues on both PS4 and PC platforms suggest that there are areas for improvement in terms of optimization and bug fixes. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Observation delivers a stable technical performance on both PS4 and PC, with some minor issues such as framerate hiccups, UI problems, and occasional bugs. Despite these technical hiccups, the game's performance is generally solid and does not significantly impact the overall gameplay experience. Xbox Achievements playing on XBOX ONE also noted some visual glitches and screen tearing during cutscenes but mentioned that they did not significantly impact the overall experience. This indicates that while there are some technical issues across different platforms, Observation remains a compelling gaming experience with its unique gameplay mechanics and narrative, overshadowing the minor technical shortcomings mentioned by the critics.

TL;DR

technical performance

Observation performs well on PS4 and PC with minor technical issues like framerate hiccups and UI problems, but these don't greatly affect gameplay. Despite some bugs and glitches, the game's unique mechanics and narrative make it a compelling experience across platforms.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

18%

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

Observation has received praise for its intriguing storyline and immersive gameplay experience, as highlighted by critics such as Destructoid and The Indie Game Website. The game's longer-than-expected running time, clocking in at around seven hours, provides players with a substantial amount of content to engage with. Optional background lore and suspenseful gameplay elements add depth to the overall experience, making it worth revisiting for those who appreciate a well-crafted narrative. The game's ability to stick in the player's mind long after completion, as noted by The Indie Game Website, showcases its lasting impact on the audience. On the downside, Observation has faced criticism for its lack of replay value, as mentioned by COGconnected and The Overpowered Noobs. The linear nature of the gameplay limits the potential for varied experiences upon replaying the game. Additionally, the absence of alternate choices, skip options, and minor dialogue changes, as pointed out by The Overpowered Noobs, further diminishes the incentive for players to revisit the game. The lack of chapter select, highlighted by PlayStation Country, also hinders the ability to easily revisit specific sections or content, potentially disappointing players looking to explore missed opportunities. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Observation being a captivating but one-and-done experience. While the game offers a compelling storyline and immersive gameplay that keeps players engaged until the end, the limited replay value due to its linear nature and lack of meaningful choices may deter some from revisiting it. The mix of positives, such as the intriguing narrative and lasting impact, with negatives like the lack of alternate paths and replay incentives, creates a somewhat polarizing reception among reviewers. Ultimately, Observation's strengths lie in its ability to deliver a memorable gaming experience, albeit one that may not cater to those seeking extensive replayability options.

TL;DR

replay value

Observation impresses with its captivating storyline and immersive gameplay, earning praise from critics for its depth and lasting impact. However, the game falls short in terms of replay value due to its linear nature and lack of meaningful choices, making it a one-and-done experience for many players. While it offers a substantial amount of content and intriguing narrative, the absence of replay incentives may disappoint those looking for varied experiences. Overall, Observation delivers a memorable gaming experience but may not satisfy those seeking extensive replayability options.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

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

Observation has garnered significant praise from multiple critics for its standout qualities. 3DJuegos commends the game for its compelling story, unique gameplay, impressive visuals, and immersive sound design, making it a highly recommended experience. CGMagazine also lauds Observation as a fantastic game that offers a memorable experience. GameSpot appreciates the well-written, clever, and focused science-fiction narrative that demands analysis and offers a real pleasure in immersing players in its world. The Indie Game Website highlights Observation as a welcome palate cleanser that focuses on storytelling, providing a personal and emotional experience. On the flip side, some critics point out the shortcomings of Observation. COGconnected mentions frustrating puzzles and limited replay value as drawbacks, despite acknowledging the thrilling and terrifying aspects of the game. Metro GameCentral criticizes the slow pacing, lack of meaningful interaction, and a narrative that fails to deliver, overshadowing the impressive visuals and music. USgamer highlights the frustrating puzzle mechanics and lack of closure, diluting the thematically gripping story of Observation. Overall, Observation receives a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. While it excels in storytelling, gameplay design, atmosphere, and sound, some reviewers express concerns about gameplay mechanics, narrative depth, and replay value. The general consensus leans towards Observation being a unique and engrossing experience that challenges players and provides a compelling narrative. Critics like Game Informer and God is a Geek highly recommend the game for its unnerving and gripping elements, while others like PlayStation Country and Metro GameCentral find certain aspects more frustrating than engaging. Observation seems to cater well to fans of narrative-driven games and sci-fi enthusiasts, offering a distinct experience that may resonate differently with individual players based on their preferences for gameplay and storytelling.

TL;DR

Critics praise Observation for its compelling story, unique gameplay, and immersive design, recommending it as a standout experience. However, some note drawbacks like frustrating puzzles and pacing issues, leading to mixed feedback. Overall, Observation offers a gripping narrative and atmospheric experience, appealing to fans of narrative-driven games and sci-fi enthusiasts.

CRITIK

Reviews

110 reviews found

GameSpew

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2019