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CRITIK

The Gardens Between

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Gardens Between
Item: The Gardens Between
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Casual, Single Player

AvailableSep 19, 2018

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperThe Voxel Agents

Overview

The Gardens Between is a surreal puzzle adventure through memory, moments and time that follows best friends, Arina and Frendt, as they fall into a mysterious world of beautiful garden islands. The player can traverse back and forwards in time to discover each garden's secrets and, along the way, reveal a story about friendship, childhood and growing up.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

76%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

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 The Gardens Between are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praise the game for its emotional depth and the way it explores themes of friendship, memories, and childhood. Critics like DarkStation, PlayStation LifeStyle, and DualShockers highlight the impactful and bittersweet nature of the story, emphasizing the emotional journey of the two main characters, Arina and Frendt. The narrative is described as touching, powerful, and thought-provoking, resonating strongly with players. The game's ability to convey a heartfelt story without the use of text or dialogue is commended by Game Revolution, Gamer.no, and Adventure Gamers, who appreciate the reliance on environmental design and character interactions to evoke emotions and relationships. On the other hand, some critics express reservations about the depth and complexity of the story in The Gardens Between. Push Square and The Digital Fix criticize the lack of substantial plot and character development, with Push Square mentioning that the story elements are almost non-existent outside of brief cutscenes. Nintendo Insider and NintendoWorldReport also note a lack of investment in the narrative, with Nintendo Insider specifically mentioning being unmoved by the bittersweet tone threaded throughout the game. These critics feel that the story may be lacking in depth and character investment, which could potentially impact the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that The Gardens Between successfully delivers a poignant and emotional story centered around friendship and memories. The game's ability to convey complex emotions and themes through minimalist storytelling is widely appreciated, with critics like Vooks and Worth Playing highlighting the touching and universal nature of the narrative. While some critics point out the lack of depth or character investment in the story, the majority of reviewers find the narrative to be a compelling and nostalgic exploration of childhood experiences. The Gardens Between is praised for its ability to create a bittersweet and thought-provoking atmosphere, resonating with players on a personal and emotional level.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics overwhelmingly praise The Gardens Between for its emotional depth, exploring themes of friendship and childhood through a touching and thought-provoking narrative. While some critics express reservations about the story's depth and character development, the majority find it to be a compelling and nostalgic journey that resonates emotionally with players. The game's minimalist storytelling approach is commended for evoking complex emotions and relationships without the use of text or dialogue.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

74%

Mixed (50-79)

26%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of The Gardens Between, highlighting its innovative time manipulation mechanics and engaging puzzle-solving elements. Critics like Game Revolution and PlayStation Universe commended the game for its innovative and intuitive puzzle mechanics, with a steady difficulty curve that kept players engaged. The Digital Fix mentioned that while some levels were easily solved, there were still interesting puzzles presented throughout the game. Additionally, Adventure Gamers appreciated the cleverly designed puzzles that allowed for a leisurely yet satisfying experience. The game's unique premise of controlling time to guide characters through puzzles was well-received by critics like God is a Geek and The Sydney Morning Herald, who found the gameplay to be creatively designed and thought-provoking. However, some critics expressed concerns about the lack of challenge in certain levels of The Gardens Between. BaziCenter mentioned that the gameplay could have been more challenging, while The Digital Fix described the gameplay as lacking challenge overall, with puzzles that were easily solved by moving time forward or backward. PlayStation LifeStyle also noted that the puzzle design could be inconsistent and occasionally frustrating, highlighting a potential area for improvement. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment was that the gameplay was enjoyable and engaging, even if it could have been more challenging in certain aspects. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of The Gardens Between. The game's unique time manipulation mechanics, coupled with its well-designed puzzles and engaging exploration elements, received high praise from the majority of reviewers. Critics appreciated the game's creative approach to puzzle-solving, with many highlighting the innovative use of time control as a central gameplay mechanic. While some critics mentioned concerns about the level of challenge in certain puzzles, the general sentiment is that The Gardens Between offers a delightful and thought-provoking gameplay experience that is both enjoyable and memorable. The game's ability to blend exploration, puzzle-solving, and time manipulation in a seamless and engaging manner resonated well with critics, making it a standout title in the puzzle-adventure genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics laud The Gardens Between for its innovative time manipulation gameplay and engaging puzzles, with praise for its intuitive mechanics and clever design. While some felt certain levels lacked challenge, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the game's creative approach to puzzle-solving and memorable experience in blending exploration and time control seamlessly.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics were highly impressed with the Graphics and Visual Design of The Gardens Between, praising its stunning art style, vibrant colors, and surreal visuals. Critics like BaziCenter, DarkStation, and Gamer.no appreciated the game's striking visual style with vibrant colors and textures that enhanced the overall experience. The game was described as having magnificent art design, beautiful and striking visual design, and clean, colorful visuals that captured the childlike innocence of the game. The diorama-like levels, surrealistic visual style, and retro touch in the environments were also highlighted by critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square. Additionally, the game's detailed island settings, inventive art direction, and creative levels were commended by critics such as TheXboxHub and DualShockers. While the overall sentiment towards the Graphics and Visual Design of The Gardens Between was overwhelmingly positive, there were a few criticisms raised by some critics. Video Chums pointed out that the character models stood out awkwardly in an otherwise colorful and endearing visual presentation. The Digital Fix mentioned a disenfranchised tone created by the zoomed-out perspective and ghostly soundtrack, which may not have resonated with all players. These minor criticisms were outweighed by the numerous positive comments regarding the game's art style, level design, and overall visual appeal. In conclusion, The Gardens Between received widespread acclaim for its Graphics and Visual Design, with critics lauding its stunning visuals, imaginative art direction, and vibrant color palette. The majority of reviewers found the game's visuals to be beautiful, charming, and visually appealing, with many highlighting the game's unique diorama-like environments and surrealistic style. The positive reception from critics like Adventure Gamers, GameCritics, and Nintendo Life underscores the consensus that The Gardens Between excels in delivering a visually captivating and artistically impressive gaming experience. Overall, the game's Graphics and Visual Design were a standout feature that contributed significantly to its overall appeal and enjoyment for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praised The Gardens Between for its stunning graphics and visual design, highlighting its vibrant colors, surreal visuals, and inventive art direction. While some had minor criticisms about character models and tone, the overwhelming sentiment was positive, with reviewers lauding the beautiful and charming visuals that enhanced the overall gaming experience. The game's diorama-like levels and retro touch were particularly well-received, making it a visually captivating and artistically impressive gaming experience according to critics.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

69%

Mixed (50-79)

31%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of The Gardens Between have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics. Many reviewers highlighted the soothing and ambient nature of the soundtrack, with BaziCenter, DarkStation, and Game Revolution praising the music for enhancing the overall experience and atmosphere of the game. The use of laidback, excellent ambient tunes, as mentioned by Game Revolution, and the ethereal and dreamlike quality of the music, as noted by Push Square, create a cohesive audiovisual experience that immerses players in the game's world. Critics like God is a Geek and The Digital Fix appreciated how the soundtrack complemented the game's visuals and themes, with the bright, delicate score adding to the colorful aesthetic and the ghostly soundtrack reflecting the game's subject matter. While the majority of critics had positive opinions about the Sound Design and Music of The Gardens Between, there were a few dissenting voices. Nintenderos mentioned that the music, while subtle and relaxing, could become redundant during prolonged play sessions, lacking the versatility to maintain engagement. We Got This Covered found the synth-heavy soundtrack to be fine but not particularly memorable, indicating a lack of lasting impression compared to other aspects of the game. XBLA Fans provided praise for the sound design but noted a lack of detail regarding the music, suggesting a potential imbalance in the attention given to different audio elements. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of The Gardens Between. The soundtrack, composed by Tim Shiel, is widely praised for its ability to enhance the emotional moments, immersive atmosphere, and abstract world of memories within the game. The serene, calming, and mellow nature of the music, as highlighted by various critics such as Nintendo Enthusiast and Vooks, contributes significantly to the overall experience, creating a cohesive audiovisual journey for players. Despite some minor criticisms regarding repetitiveness and memorability, the general sentiment is that the Sound Design and Music play a crucial role in elevating The Gardens Between to a memorable and engaging gaming experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about The Gardens Between's sound design and music, praising its soothing ambiance and ethereal quality. While some found the music repetitive or forgettable, overall consensus is highly positive, with the soundtrack enhancing emotional moments and creating an immersive audiovisual experience for players.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

81%

Negative (0-49)

15%

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

The Gardens Between has received mixed opinions regarding its replay value. Some critics, such as Gamer.no and PlayStation Universe, appreciate the fresh and engaging experience the game offers despite its short length. The puzzles and narrative have been highlighted as strong points that make revisiting the game worthwhile. Additionally, Adventure Gamers mentioned that achievements encourage experimentation, adding a layer of replayability for some players. On the other hand, a significant number of critics, including God is a Geek and Video Chums, have expressed concerns about the game's lack of replay value. The short length, linear nature of the puzzles, and absence of additional modes or content upon completion have been cited as reasons why players may not feel inclined to replay the game. Critics like COGconnected and Impulsegamer emphasized the game's brevity as a hindrance to its replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards The Gardens Between being a short but memorable experience that may not offer substantial replay value for all players. While the puzzles, narrative, and art style are praised for creating a captivating atmosphere, the game's limited content and lack of incentives for replay detract from its overall replayability. Critics like DualShockers and GameSpot acknowledge the game's charm and emotional impact but note that its brevity may deter some players from revisiting it. Ultimately, the game's unique blend of story, gameplay, and art is recognized, but its replay value is a point of contention among reviewers.

TL;DR

replay value

The Gardens Between offers a captivating experience with strong puzzles and narrative, but its short length and lack of replay incentives divide critics on its overall replay value. Some appreciate the fresh gameplay and achievements, while others find its brevity and limited content as drawbacks to replayability.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

32%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Gardens Between has garnered praise from multiple critics for its unique and valuable gameplay experience. Critics like DarkStation and PlayStation Universe commend the game for its standout puzzle mechanics, simplicity, and emotionally resonant narrative. The game's charming visuals, engaging puzzles, and nostalgic appeal, as highlighted by Gamer.no and Adventure Gamers, contribute to its overall positive reception. The game's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and exploration, as noted by Hooked Gamers and TheSixthAxis, adds to its appeal, making it a delightful experience for players of all ages. On the downside, some critics, such as Video Chums and The Digital Fix, mention issues with the game's length, lack of content, and replay value. The slow-moving characters and puzzle simplicity, as pointed out by VideoGamer and Push Square, also detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, GameSpot highlights that while the puzzles are inventive, they may feel disconnected from the narrative, impacting the game's cohesion. Overall, The Gardens Between is lauded for its unique concept, beautiful visuals, and emotionally impactful storytelling by a majority of critics. Critics like DualShockers and GameCritics appreciate the game's ability to convey a touching narrative and evoke emotions through its gameplay. While some critics acknowledge its shortcomings in terms of length and replayability, the game's creative design, engaging puzzles, and peaceful atmosphere make it a standout title in the puzzle genre. The Gardens Between successfully offers a memorable and heartfelt experience, appealing to players seeking a thought-provoking and visually striking adventure, as echoed by PlayStation LifeStyle and Worth Playing.

TL;DR

The Gardens Between: Praised for its unique gameplay, charming visuals, and nostalgic appeal. Critics laud its emotionally resonant narrative, engaging puzzles, and delightful experience for all ages. Some critique its length, lack of content, and disconnect between narrative and puzzles. Overall, a standout title in the puzzle genre with creative design and peaceful atmosphere, offering a memorable and heartfelt experience.

CRITIK

Reviews

104 reviews found

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

Dec 18, 2018

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

The review concludes that The Gardens Between is a well-produced and polished game that is relaxing and welcoming, and recommends it as a must-buy.

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GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a masterpiece of minimalist storytelling and a must-have title for anyone who enjoys puzzle games.

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DualShockers

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a wholly unique and emotionally impactful experience that stands out among indie games, offering a beautiful journey that shouldn't be forgotten.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Oct 1, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a delightful and touching game with consistently great level design, offering a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a smartly designed puzzler with a strong story and stunning visuals. The only minor complaint is the abrupt conclusion.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Dec 7, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is described as a fantastic game that excels in visuals, gameplay, and soundtrack. Despite some minor issues with puzzle simplicity and length, the overall experience is highly recommended for players looking for a lovely and engaging concept.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 4

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a short and simple adventure that holds a lot of charm. It plays upon nostalgia and deals with the nature of change within relationships. The game is perfectly put together and the puzzles should be praised. Score: 9/10

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GameCritics

Oct 15, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is praised for its emotional storytelling, clever puzzles, and beautiful visuals. It serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of moving forward while cherishing memories.

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Hooked Gamers

Oct 1, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a beautiful game with wonderful settings, puzzles, and a relaxing atmosphere. It is a game for all ages, but especially nostalgic for those who grew up in the 80s.

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Worth Playing

Nintendo Switch

Oct 26, 2018

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

The Gardens Between offers a gratifying experience with clever puzzles, gorgeous visuals, and a compelling gameplay loop. While the story is underdeveloped and the game is short for its price, it still provides a journey worth embarking on for fans of the genre.

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