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CRITIK

Strayed Lights

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Fighting, Single Player

AvailableApr 25, 2023

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

DeveloperEmbers

Overview

An atmospheric action adventure combining a wordless experience with cinematic fights based around colors. Restore your light that was torn by shadows and face endearing creatures deformed by their emotions.

Elsewhere

6.2

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

23%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

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 Strayed Lights are varied, with some positive and negative aspects highlighted. Several critics, such as Digital Chumps and Finger Guns, appreciate the game's storytelling approach, describing it as compelling, superbly handled, and mysterious. They praise the use of silent storytelling, environmental cues, and character actions to convey the narrative. The lack of dialogue and written text adds to the game's sense of mystery and reflection. Additionally, Pure Nintendo and PlayStation Country commend the game for its open-ended and interpretive storytelling, allowing players to form their own theories and ideas. On the other hand, some critics express negative opinions about the story of Strayed Lights. Gamereactor UK, Xbox Tavern, and God is a Geek criticize the lack of depth and context in the narrative, leaving players confused and disconnected from the events happening in the game. XboxEra and GamingTrend mention that the story is unclear and difficult to follow, requiring players to figure everything out on their own. These critics highlight the absence of dialogue or exposition as a hindrance to understanding the story. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some appreciate the minimalist storytelling approach and the ability to interpret the narrative, others find the story lacking in depth and context. Critics such as Digital Spy, Movies Games and Tech, and Worth Playing highlight the unique and intriguing premise of the story, exploring themes of inner turmoil, duality, and overcoming one's own demons. However, critics like Xbox Tavern and Gaming Age feel that the game fails to deliver on its promises and lacks a clear narrative. Despite the differing opinions, most critics agree that the game's visuals, animation, and atmosphere contribute positively to the storytelling experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the Story of Strayed Lights. Some praise its compelling storytelling and open-ended nature, while others criticize its lack of depth and clarity. The game's use of silent storytelling and visuals is appreciated, but some find the narrative confusing and disconnected. Overall, opinions vary on the game's unique premise and atmospheric elements, with some feeling it falls short in delivering a clear narrative.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Strayed Lights are quite varied. There are several positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers. Gamereactor UK mentions that the combat system is exciting and built around well-timed blocks. Digital Spy praises the addictive and almost rhythm game-like combat, with a focus on parrying and color-matching. Movies Games and Tech describes the combat as a test of agility, reflexes, and dexterity, with easy-to-understand color system and parry mechanics. Dexerto finds the combat system challenging, addictive, and refreshing. Checkpoint Gaming states that Strayed Lights has an engaging gameplay loop with enjoyable combat. Digital Chumps mentions that the mechanics, while complicated and difficult to master, offer alternative methods to make the gameplay more interesting. God is a Geek acknowledges that the combat is serviceable, with rewarding elements such as matching colors and earning skill points. However, there are also several negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Xbox Tavern criticizes the combat mechanics as frustrating, while XboxEra finds them inconsistent and frustrating, relying heavily on parrying. XboxAddict initially found the parrying system frustrating, and Shacknews mentions that the combat system can be frustrating for some players due to the focus on parrying attacks. Gaming Age did not enjoy the gameplay, which mainly consists of dodging and parrying. Worth Playing mentions that the combat can become repetitive and lacks enemy variety. Game Informer finds the platforming burdensome, and PlayStation Country states that the combat becomes fairly passive, lacking challenge. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the combat system in Strayed Lights is unique and engaging, with a focus on parrying attacks and color-matching. The positive aspects highlighted by multiple critics include the addictive nature of the combat, the rewarding feeling of mastering the mechanics, and the depth provided by abilities and upgrades. However, there are concerns about the lack of variety in combat and enemy types, as well as frustrations with the controls and the reliance on parrying. Some critics also mention that the platforming sections can be inconsistent. Despite these mixed opinions, the majority of critics find the gameplay of Strayed Lights to be enjoyable and engaging, with unique elements that set it apart from other games in the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on Strayed Lights' gameplay. Positive highlights include engaging combat with timed blocks, addictive rhythm-game-like mechanics, and challenging yet rewarding color-matching and parry system. However, some critics criticize frustrating combat mechanics, lack of variety in enemies, and burdensome platforming. Overall, while the combat system is praised for its uniqueness and addictiveness, there are concerns about repetitiveness and control issues. Despite mixed reviews, most critics find Strayed Lights' gameplay enjoyable and distinct within the genre.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

24%

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 Strayed Lights are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the game's stunning and beautiful visuals, with vibrant colors and unique art styles. Gamereactor UK commends the game's world design for being beautifully designed and exuding mystery and magic. Digital Spy describes the world as stunning and vivid, resembling a living, breathing painting. Movies Games and Tech highlights the impressive visuals with unique and dreamlike environments, while Xbox Tavern mentions the beautiful and glowing landscapes. The game's visual style is also described as atmospheric, with bold and simple art and monochromatic color schemes, as stated by XboxEra. Checkpoint Gaming and Dexerto both emphasize the game's gorgeous visuals, vibrant colors, and varied art style. Digital Chumps specifically mentions the well-crafted light characters and environments that make use of the PS5's ray tracing capabilities. However, there were some criticisms regarding the visuals of Strayed Lights. GameGrin mentions that while the levels are beautiful, the hub areas are too big and can be frustrating to navigate. Gaming Age feels that the game looks nice but the world feels kind of empty. GameSpew points out that while the visual style is striking and draws players in, there are times when the environments can be bland. Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo mention visual bugs and barren environments as areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Graphics and Visual Design of Strayed Lights are very good. The majority of the critics praised the game's stunning and gorgeous visuals, with vibrant colors, atmospheric landscapes, and unique art styles. The game's world design, use of light and shadow, and attention to detail were highly appreciated. The visual presentation was described as a visual spectacle, a delight, and a visual feast. Despite some minor criticisms regarding navigation and occasional blandness in the environments, the positive aspects of the game's visuals outweighed the negatives. The overall sentiment is that Strayed Lights offers a visually pleasing and immersive experience that successfully captures the attention and admiration of the players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics overwhelmingly praise the stunning and beautiful visuals of Strayed Lights, with vibrant colors, unique art styles, and atmospheric landscapes. Despite some criticisms about navigation and occasional blandness, the game's graphics are highly appreciated for their use of light and shadow, attention to detail, and visual spectacle. Overall, Strayed Lights offers a visually pleasing and immersive experience that captivates players.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

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 Strayed Lights are overwhelmingly positive. The majority of the critics praised the soundtrack composed by Austin Wintory, describing it as beautiful, atmospheric, and enhancing the overall experience of the game. Gamereactor UK, Digital Spy, Movies Games and Tech, Xbox Tavern, XboxEra, Digital Chumps, Gaming Age, Hey Poor Player, Impulsegamer, Screen Rant, Slant Magazine, Worth Playing, COGconnected, Finger Guns, Game Informer, Gaming Nexus, Push Square, XboxAddict, and Nintendo Life all commended the music and sound design of Strayed Lights. They highlighted the ability of the soundtrack to add to the mystery, relaxation, emotion, story, atmosphere, and visual style of the game. Austin Wintory's score was particularly praised for its ability to reflect the mood of each area and create a minimalist experience. Critics also appreciated the combination of larger orchestral themes and subtle sounds, as well as the ambient and meditative nature of the music sequences. The sound design was generally well-received, although some critics, such as Shacknews, felt that more effort could have been put into footsteps and vocalization. While the overall consensus among the critics is highly positive, there were a few minor criticisms regarding the sound design and music of Strayed Lights. GamingTrend mentioned that the music felt too intense at times, and Shacknews noted that the soundtrack was not as riveting as Austin Wintory's prior work. Additionally, Gaming Nexus mentioned surprising moods conveyed by the music, suggesting that it may not always align perfectly with the on-screen action. PlayStation Country mentioned that the soundtrack lacked bombast but still provided somber tones in the background. In conclusion, the sound design and music of Strayed Lights received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the critics. Austin Wintory's soundtrack was highly praised for its beauty, atmospheric qualities, and ability to enhance the overall experience of the game. The majority of the critics commended the music's ability to reflect the mood of each area, drive emotion and story, and blend well with the visual style. While there were a few minor criticisms regarding intensity, rivetingness, and alignment with on-screen action, the overall consensus is that the sound design and music of Strayed Lights were very good. Critics such as COGconnected, Finger Guns, and XboxAddict even went as far as describing the soundtrack as a masterpiece and the sound design as immersive.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics overwhelmingly praise the sound design and music of Strayed Lights, particularly Austin Wintory's beautiful and atmospheric soundtrack. The majority commend its ability to enhance the game's overall experience, reflecting different moods and creating a minimalist yet immersive ambiance. While some minor criticisms exist about intensity and alignment with on-screen action, the consensus is highly positive, with many critics even hailing it as a masterpiece for its ability to drive emotion, story, and atmosphere.

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

voice acting

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Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

29%

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

In terms of the Technical Performance on PC, there are mixed opinions among the critics. Checkpoint Gaming mentions framerate issues on older systems, while GameGrin highlights frequent frame drops, stutters, audio issues, pop-in, and crashes. However, GameGrin also states that these issues didn't significantly impact the overall enjoyment of the game. Hey Poor Player raises concerns about frequent crashes during the review period, indicating potential optimization problems. On the other hand, Worth Playing provides a more positive perspective, mentioning that the game runs smoothly with a high frame rate, even on low-end systems, although occasional frame rate drops during combat and crashes without warning can be annoying. Overall, the PC version of Strayed Lights seems to have some technical issues, including framerate drops, crashes, and optimization concerns, but it also offers smooth performance on capable systems. Moving on to the console versions, the PlayStation 5 version of Strayed Lights, as reviewed by PlayStation Country, is described as running smoothly and paced well. This suggests a positive technical performance on this platform. However, the Nintendo Switch version, as experienced by Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo, presents more challenges. Both critics mention technical glitches, frame rate issues, screen tearing, and long loading times. Pure Nintendo specifically highlights long loading screens, freezes during autosave, and significant frame rate drops in some areas. These negative aspects indicate that the Nintendo Switch version of Strayed Lights suffers from technical limitations and performance issues. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, it is evident that the Technical Performance of Strayed Lights is a mixed bag across different gaming platforms. While the PC version shows both positive aspects, such as smooth performance on capable systems, and negative aspects, including framerate drops and crashes, the console versions present more challenges. The PlayStation 5 version seems to offer a smoother experience, while the Nintendo Switch version suffers from technical glitches, frame rate issues, screen tearing, and long loading times. Overall, the consensus among the critics suggests that Strayed Lights may have some technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, but these issues do not significantly impact the overall enjoyment of the game for most reviewers.

TL;DR

technical performance

Strayed Lights receives mixed reviews for its technical performance across PC and consoles. PC version faces framerate drops and crashes, while offering smooth performance on capable systems. PlayStation 5 version runs smoothly, but Nintendo Switch version struggles with technical glitches, frame rate issues, and long loading times. Despite some technical limitations, reviewers find the game enjoyable overall.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

90%

Negative (0-49)

10%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Strayed Lights are varied. Some critics, such as Movies Games and Tech and Game Informer, highlight the positive aspects of the game's replay value. They mention the multiple worlds to explore, collectibles to find, character upgrades to unlock, and the unique combat system and exploration that make it enjoyable to replay. These aspects provide players with incentives to revisit the game and discover new content and abilities. Additionally, the skill tree and three difficulty levels mentioned by Worth Playing offer further opportunities for replayability. On the other hand, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value. Hey Poor Player and Screen Rant both mention the lack of variety in enemies and encounters, as well as the game's short length, which may limit the desire to replay it. GamingTrend and Worth Playing note the absence of a New Game+ mode and harder difficulties, which can also hinder replayability. Finger Guns acknowledges the lack of replay value but suggests that the short and experiential nature of the game compensates for this drawback. Overall, while there are positive aspects to the replay value of Strayed Lights, such as the multiple worlds, collectibles, and character upgrades, there are also limitations that may impact its long-term appeal. The lack of variety in enemies and encounters, short length, and absence of certain replay-enhancing features are mentioned by critics as potential drawbacks. However, it is worth noting that some critics, like Finger Guns and Game Informer, find the game's unique qualities and experiential nature to be special, mitigating the issue of limited replay value. Ultimately, players seeking a game with extensive replayability may find Strayed Lights lacking, but those who appreciate its distinct gameplay and world may still find enjoyment in revisiting it.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed opinions on the replay value of Strayed Lights. Some praise its multiple worlds, collectibles, and unique combat system for encouraging replay, while others criticize the lack of enemy variety and short length that may limit replayability. Despite drawbacks like the absence of a New Game+ mode, some reviewers appreciate the game's experiential nature. Players looking for extensive replayability may find it lacking, but those who enjoy its distinct gameplay may still find joy in revisiting it.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

43%

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

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

Overall, the critics have provided a mixed response to the overall verdict of Strayed Lights. There are several positive aspects of the game that have been highlighted by the reviewers. Digital Spy praises the game as a unique and well-crafted Souls-lite adventure with a lavish world, beautiful soundtrack, and addictive combat loop. Digital Chumps also commends the game's visually intoxicating adventure, challenging gameplay, and standout features such as the story, graphics, and music. Game Informer notes the game's strong debut with a unique combat system, beautiful visuals, and a delightful score. Finger Guns describes Strayed Lights as a short but sweet experiential title that shines bright with its atmospheric story, rewarding gameplay, and fantastic graphics and music. However, there are also several criticisms raised by the reviewers. Xbox Tavern mentions that while the game has moments of beauty, it lacks depth and fails to leave a lasting impression. XboxEra states that the game falls short due to design decisions and frustrating combat mechanics, despite its beautiful world and potential. God is a Geek describes Strayed Lights as forgettable and disconnected due to its lack of story and context, along with repetitive gameplay. Hey Poor Player criticizes the weak story, lack of enemy variety, and technical issues that make it hard to recommend the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Strayed Lights has its strengths, such as its unique combat system, stunning visuals, captivating soundtrack, and atmospheric storytelling. However, there are notable weaknesses, including a lack of depth, frustrating combat mechanics, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues. While some critics highly recommend the game and praise it as a strong debut with addictive combat and a beautiful world, others find it lacking in certain areas and not as memorable as they had hoped. It is clear that Strayed Lights has potential, but it falls short of being a universally acclaimed title.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed feelings about Strayed Lights. It's praised for its unique combat, stunning visuals, and captivating soundtrack, but criticized for lacking depth, frustrating combat mechanics, and repetitive gameplay. While some recommend it for its strengths, others find it forgettable and disconnected. Overall, the game shows promise but falls short of universal acclaim.

CRITIK

Reviews

64 reviews found

Finger Guns

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a short but sweet experiential title that shines bright with its atmospheric story, rewarding gameplay, and fantastic graphics and music. Despite some minor issues, the game leaves a lasting impression. It is highly recommended.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a strongly designed action adventure with a melancholic atmosphere. Despite potential issues like low difficulty, it is an exceptional debut outing.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

The review concludes that Strayed Lights is a special game with addictive combat, a beautiful world, and incredible sound design. Despite the vague narrative and some awkward animations, it delivers an unforgettable experience.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

The reviewer enjoyed Strayed Lights despite not being a fan of action-combat games. The unique combat system, visuals, and exploration made it a worthwhile experience.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 1, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a confident debut game with immaculate gameplay and beautiful visuals and music.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

May 17, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a wonderful and strange experience that stands out from its peers. Despite a lack of guidance, the incredible combat, amazing audio, and excellent stage design make it worth buying.

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Digital Spy

Xbox Series X

Apr 28, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a unique and well-crafted Souls-lite adventure game with a lavish world, beautiful soundtrack, and addictive combat loop. It is easy to recommend.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Apr 27, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is an entertaining action-adventure game with a satisfying challenge, beautiful art, and basic but effective storytelling.

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Digital Chumps

Apr 27, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a visually intoxicating adventure with a challenging gameplay experience. It may not be suitable for all gamers, but those who enjoy games like the Dark Souls series will find it satisfying. The game's story, graphics, and music are its standout features.

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XboxAddict

Xbox One

May 16, 2023

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

The game is praised for its unique combat style, stunning visuals, and captivating soundtrack. The finicky platforming mechanics and lack of enemy variety are mentioned as shortcomings. Overall, the game is considered a great debut from Embers.

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