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A Highland Song

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of A Highland Song
Item: A Highland Song
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Platformer, Open World, Side View Perspective, Music and Dance, Single Player

AvailableDec 5, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC

Developerinkle

Overview

Enter the Highlands. Lose yourself. Find harmony. Reach the sea. A narrative adventure with rhythm and survival elements, from the creators of Heaven’s Vault and 80 Days.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

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 A Highland Song are generally positive. Many critics praise the game for its captivating and heartwarming narrative, with Checkpoint Gaming describing it as "sweet, heartwarming," and Cubed3 stating that it is "interesting and easy to follow." The story is commended for its exploration of Scottish culture and mythology, with Gamer.nl highlighting it as a coming-of-age tale and Gamereactor Finland emphasizing its beauty and importance. The incorporation of Gaelic folktales and myths into the narrative is also appreciated, as mentioned by Nintendo Life. The personal and localised nature of the story is highlighted by TheSixthAxis, stating that it captures the feeling of escape and personal growth. However, there are some criticisms regarding the emotional storytelling and character development. Gamer Escape mentions that the emotional storytelling falls short of expectations, while TheGamer states that the intrigue surrounding the protagonist's motivations is not fully developed. Inverse criticizes the game for focusing too much on reaching the destination rather than savoring the journey, which may have hindered the exploration of the beauty of the Scottish Highlands and its folklore. Overall, the critics' consensus is that the Story of A Highland Song offers a captivating and immersive narrative that successfully incorporates Scottish culture, history, and mythology. The positive aspects of the story, such as its heartwarming nature, interesting plot, and exploration of personal growth, are widely acknowledged. However, there are some criticisms regarding the emotional depth and character development, as well as the game's focus on reaching the destination rather than fully embracing the journey. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment towards the story of A Highland Song remains positive, with the majority of critics praising its cultural narrative and engaging storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics praise the captivating and heartwarming narrative of The Story of A Highland Song, highlighting its exploration of Scottish culture and mythology. While some criticize the emotional storytelling and character development, overall, the game is commended for its immersive storytelling and cultural richness.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of A Highland Song are quite diverse, with both positive and negative aspects highlighted. Many critics praise the exploration aspect of the gameplay, with reviewers such as COGconnected and Gamer Escape mentioning the rewarding moments of finding hidden paths and the unique and enjoyable aspect of exploration. The gameplay is described as involving climbing mountains, navigating treacherous terrain, and discovering stories and legends, as mentioned by critics like Guardian and Multiplayer.it. The inclusion of rhythm game elements is also appreciated by several critics, such as Gamer.nl and TRG, who mention that it adds a whimsical touch and variety to the gameplay. The platforming mechanics are generally seen as enjoyable, with The Sixth Axis comparing them to Breath of the Wild and The Games Machine praising them for being fluid and muscly. On the other hand, there are some criticisms regarding the gameplay of A Highland Song. Several critics mention frustrations with certain mechanics or controls. Checkpoint Gaming and SpazioGames express frustration with the mountaineering gameplay, citing inconsistent climbing mechanics and imprecise controls as sources of annoyance. PC Invasion also mentions frustration with the travel mechanics, sprinting sections, and navigation, seeing them as boring obstacles rather than immersive challenges. The repetitious nature of the game is also mentioned as a negative aspect by Nintendo Life, who find it to be frustrating. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that A Highland Song offers a unique and enjoyable gameplay experience with a focus on exploration, climbing, and platforming. The game combines various genres, including roguelite, survival, point 'n click adventure, and rhythm game elements, creating a diverse and challenging puzzle-platformer experience. While there are some frustrations with certain mechanics or controls, the positive aspects of the gameplay, such as the rewarding exploration and the enjoyable platforming mechanics, outweigh the negatives. The overall sentiment is that A Highland Song provides a reflective and immersive journey through the Scottish Highlands, with each journey being unique and special.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on the gameplay of A Highland Song. Positives include praised exploration, unique rhythm game elements, and enjoyable platforming mechanics akin to Breath of the Wild. However, criticisms mention frustrations with climbing mechanics, imprecise controls, and repetitive gameplay. Despite flaws, the game offers a diverse and challenging experience combining various genres. Overall, A Highland Song delivers a reflective journey through the Scottish Highlands, blending rewarding exploration with immersive platforming.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

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 A Highland Song were overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the game's beautiful and immersive visuals, with several mentioning the stunning landscapes and painterly art style. Critics like Cubed3 and Gamer Escape commended the game's lovely art direction, with hand-drawn and flowingly animated locales that added to the overall beauty of the game. The watercolor style, smooth animations, and impressive camerawork were also highlighted by Gamer Escape. The visuals were described as gorgeous, resembling moving watercolors by GamingTrend, and as hand-painted and wonderful by The Games Machine. The game effectively captured the scale and majesty of the Scottish Highlands without relying on photorealistic graphics, as noted by TheGamer. Overall, the majority of the critics found the graphics and visual design of A Highland Song to be very good, praising its stunning landscapes, painterly art style, and immersive environments. While the majority of critics had positive opinions about the game's graphics and visual design, there were a few criticisms mentioned. GamesHub mentioned that the distinction between background and foreground in the environments was sometimes unclear, which could potentially lead to confusion for players. Eurogamer noted that navigating certain areas, especially in certain weather conditions or in caves, could be difficult. SpazioGames mentioned occasional roadblocks and backtracking that could be frustrating. However, these negative points were only raised by a small number of critics and did not overshadow the overall positive reception of the game's visuals. In conclusion, the Graphics and Visual Design of A Highland Song were highly praised by the majority of the critics. The game's stunning landscapes, painterly art style, and immersive environments were commended by multiple reviewers such as COGconnected, Gamer.nl, God is a Geek, and Digital Trends. The visuals were described as beautiful, gorgeous, and enchanting, with many critics highlighting the game's ability to capture the beauty and atmosphere of the Scottish Highlands. While there were a few minor criticisms regarding the clarity of certain elements and navigation challenges, these were outweighed by the overall positive consensus among the critics. A Highland Song's graphics and visual design were widely regarded as very good, contributing to the enjoyment and immersion of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics raved about the stunning graphics and visual design of A Highland Song, praising its beautiful landscapes and painterly art style. While some minor criticisms were mentioned, the majority of critics found the visuals to be very good, capturing the essence of the Scottish Highlands. Overall, the game was commended for its immersive environments and enchanting visuals by multiple reviewers.

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 A Highland Song received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of the critics. Many praised the game for its authentic Scottish folk music, which added personality and enhanced the overall experience. Critics such as COGconnected and Checkpoint Gaming commended the traditional Scottish folk music by TALISK and Fourth Moon, describing it as beautiful and enhancing the immersive experience. Gamer Escape and Gamereactor Finland also highlighted the standout feature of the game's music, with tracks from these folk bands being a delight to listen to. The music was described as atmospheric, capturing the poetry, lightness, and strength of the Scottish Highlands, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it. The soundtrack was often described as splendid, folk-inspired, and stealing the show, as stated by SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer, respectively. The use of music in A Highland Song was appreciated for its ability to create a mystical atmosphere, as noted by Guardian, and bring cultural authenticity to the journey, according to Digital Trends. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Sound Design and Music of A Highland Song. Cubed3 mentioned that while the music had great rhythms, it didn't always match the beat of the song, which could be a slight drawback. Inverse pointed out that while the music itself was delightful, the rhythm game mechanic felt clunky, potentially affecting the overall enjoyment of those segments. NintendoWorldReport also mentioned that the rhythm game segments could be challenging to read in handheld mode, which could be frustrating for some players. GameGrin expressed disappointment with the placement and abruptness of the music moments, suggesting that they could have been better integrated into the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Sound Design and Music of A Highland Song is a standout feature of the game. The majority of the critics praised the authentic Scottish folk music, atmospheric sound design, and the use of music to enhance the overall experience. The music was often described as beautiful, delightful, splendid, and stealing the show. While there were some minor criticisms regarding the rhythm game mechanics and integration of music, the positive opinions far outweighed the negatives. The critics' overall sentiment towards the Sound Design and Music of A Highland Song was highly positive, making it a notable aspect of the game that contributed to its immersive and enjoyable nature.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about the authentic Scottish folk music in A Highland Song, praising its beauty and immersive experience. While some noted issues with rhythm game mechanics, overall, the music steals the show and enhances gameplay. Critics agree that the sound design and music are standout features, adding cultural authenticity and creating a mystical atmosphere.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in A Highland Song are generally positive. Multiple critics, such as Gamer.nl, Multiplayer.it, Siliconera, GameGrin, Hardcore Gamer, PC Invasion, and Softpedia, praise the voice acting for its quality and contribution to the overall experience of the game. They mention that the voice acting adds depth, authenticity, and enhances the immersion of the players. Siliconera specifically highlights Moira's voice acting as a delight to listen to, with anecdotes about herself and her family adding to the experience. GameGrin also commends both Moira and Hamish's voice acting as doing a phenomenal job. The positive feedback from these critics indicates that the voice acting successfully brings the characters to life and engages the players. However, there are some mixed opinions about certain aspects of the voice acting. Cubed3 points out that while the Scottish cast is relieving to hear, there are some Scottish accent faux-pas and occasional awkwardness in the voice acting. This suggests that there may be inconsistencies or moments where the voice actors struggle to maintain the authenticity of the Scottish accent. Gamer Escape also mentions that the main character, Moira, lacks variety in some sounds, which implies that there could be a lack of emotional range or variation in her voice acting. These criticisms indicate that there are areas where the voice acting could have been improved to provide a more seamless and immersive experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in A Highland Song is well-done and enhances the overall experience of the game. The positive feedback from critics such as Gamer.nl, Multiplayer.it, Siliconera, GameGrin, Hardcore Gamer, PC Invasion, and Softpedia highlights the quality and effectiveness of the voice acting in bringing the characters to life and adding depth to the game. While there are some minor criticisms mentioned by Cubed3 and Gamer Escape regarding accent inconsistencies and lack of variety in certain sounds, these issues do not overshadow the overall positive reception of the voice acting. The majority of the critics appreciate the voice acting for its contribution to the immersive and authentic portrayal of the game's setting and characters.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise the voice acting in A Highland Song for its quality and contribution to the game's experience, with particular accolades for Moira's performance. While some critics note minor issues like Scottish accent inconsistencies and lack of emotional range in Moira's voice, overall, the voice acting is seen as engaging and bringing the characters to life.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

88%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance of A Highland Song, the Nintendo Switch version received mixed reviews from the critics. Cubed3 mentions occasional struggles and dead ends, but states that these issues do not break the game. Multiplayer.it, on the other hand, describes the game as impeccable from a technical standpoint, with no major issues mentioned. However, GamesHub and GamingTrend both highlight patchy performance and issues with bugs and calibration on the Switch version. Siliconera also points out clumsiness in certain aspects of the game. The Games Machine mentions technical issues that were resolved through patches, but does not provide further details. On the PC platform, the critics were more critical of the technical performance. Digital Trends mentions frustrations and setbacks due to players getting stuck, while PC Gamer highlights occasional glitches and awkwardly implemented controls that negatively impact the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that A Highland Song has some technical issues across both the Nintendo Switch and PC platforms. While some critics like Multiplayer.it praise the game's technical performance, others like GamesHub, GamingTrend, Siliconera, Digital Trends, and PC Gamer point out various issues such as patchy performance, bugs, calibration problems, clumsiness, glitches, and awkward controls. It is worth noting that some of the mentioned issues on the Nintendo Switch version have been addressed through patches, according to GamingTrend and The Games Machine. However, the overall sentiment suggests that the technical performance of A Highland Song could have been better on both platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed reviews on the technical performance of A Highland Song. While some praise the Nintendo Switch version as impeccable, others criticize issues like patchy performance and bugs. PC critics were more critical, highlighting glitches and awkward controls. Overall, there are technical issues on both platforms, with some improvements made through patches on the Switch.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

41%

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of A Highland Song are generally positive. Many critics mention that the game offers multiple routes, choices, and paths to explore, which adds to its replayability. COGconnected, Gamer Escape, Gamereactor Finland, GamesHub, GamingTrend, Guardian, Multiplayer.it, NintendoWorldReport, Siliconera, SpazioGames, TheGamer, Digital Trends, Eurogamer, GameGrin, Hardcore Gamer, Slant Magazine, Softpedia, TRG, and TheSixthAxis all highlight the game's multiple playthroughs, unique journeys, and the ability to discover different stories, secrets, and legends. They mention that each subsequent playthrough feels different and allows players to become more equipped and knowledgeable about the game, making progress easier. The inclusion of a new game plus mode, saving shortcuts and maps, and the impact of objects found in one playthrough on the next are also mentioned as factors contributing to the replay value. However, there are some negative opinions regarding the replay value of A Highland Song. Checkpoint Gaming mentions frustration with the gameplay as a reason for not wanting to replay the game. Inverse criticizes the new game plus feature, stating that it feels antithetical to the themes of the journey and diminishes the magic of individual playthroughs. Nintendo Life mentions that while the game encourages replayability with saved shortcuts and maps, the repetitious nature of the game can make it feel tedious. PC Invasion states that while the game is meant to be played more than once to discover all its secrets, the mechanics don't make the reviewer want to play again and again. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that A Highland Song offers significant replay value. The game's multiple routes, choices, and paths, along with the ability to discover different stories, secrets, and legends, are mentioned as positive aspects contributing to its replayability. Critics like COGconnected, Gamer Escape, Gamereactor Finland, GamesHub, and TheSixthAxis highlight the game's unique journeys and the feeling of rediscovering favorite places. The inclusion of a new game plus mode, the impact of objects found in one playthrough on the next, and the ability to become more equipped and knowledgeable with each playthrough are also praised. However, there are some criticisms regarding frustration with the gameplay, the antithetical nature of the new game plus feature, and the potential repetitiveness of the game. Despite these negative opinions, the overall sentiment is that A Highland Song offers a compelling replay value that encourages players to explore and experience the game multiple times.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics generally praise A Highland Song for its high replay value due to multiple routes, choices, and unique stories to discover. Features like new game plus mode and saved shortcuts enhance replayability. Some critics mention frustration with gameplay and repetitiveness as drawbacks, but overall, the consensus is that the game offers a compelling experience worth revisiting multiple times.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

77%

Mixed (50-79)

23%

Negative (0-49)

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

A Highland Song, according to the majority of critics, received a very positive overall verdict. The game was praised for its captivating atmosphere, immersive storytelling, and unique combination of elements that make players fall in love with Scotland. Critics such as COGconnected and Gamer.nl highlighted the game's intoxicating atmosphere and its ability to transport players to the Scottish Highlands. The game's exploration and unique gameplay elements were also commended by Gamer Escape and Multiplayer.it, who found it engaging and well-balanced in terms of difficulty. The visually stunning world, engaging story, and captivating soundtrack were also mentioned by NintendoWorldReport and Siliconera as standout features of the game. However, there were some negative aspects that critics pointed out. Checkpoint Gaming and SpazioGames criticized the game for its uninteresting gameplay, frustrating mechanics, and occasional frustration with level design. Nintendo Life and Inverse mentioned the repetitious gameplay as a detracting factor from the overall experience. Additionally, SpazioGames highlighted the imprecise controls and the potential challenge for non-fluent English-speaking players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among the critics is that A Highland Song is a highly recommended game. The game's ability to immerse players in the Scottish Highlands, its captivating story, and its unique combination of elements were praised by multiple critics. Guardian and Eurogamer highlighted the game's captivating story and immersive gameplay, while GameGrin and Hardcore Gamer described it as an excellent and unforgettable adventure. The positive sentiments expressed by the majority of critics indicate that A Highland Song successfully delivers an enchanting and rewarding experience, outweighing any flaws or frustrations that may arise.

TL;DR

Critics rave about A Highland Song for its captivating atmosphere, immersive storytelling, and unique Scottish charm. Despite some flaws like uninteresting gameplay and repetitive elements, the game's stunning world, engaging story, and captivating soundtrack make it a highly recommended and unforgettable adventure in the Scottish Highlands.

MONSTER

Reviews

49 reviews found

100

Gamer.nl

Nintendo Switch

Dec 15, 2023

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

A Highland Song is a sublime exploration of coming-of-age, Scottish history, and the myths that arise where humans and nature meet. It understands how interactivity and freedom enhance the gaming experience.

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100

TheSixthAxis

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is a personal and beautiful experience with a compelling story, enjoyable gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive sound design. Its replayability adds to its value.

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GameGrin

Dec 5, 2023

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

The reviewer is absolutely smitten by A Highland Song and considers it an excellent, unique, and adventure-filled title.

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God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is a special game that offers a cathartic traipse through the Scottish highlands. It is recommended for those who love films like Song of the Sea or Wolfwalkers.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is a powerful and beautiful game that shouldn't be missed.

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The Games Machine

Nintendo Switch

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is praised as another hit from Inkle, offering a platform adventure that combines the pleasure of trekking with a delicate and immersive narrative. The game is described as visually stunning, fluid, and centered. The reviewer expresses a desire to visit Scotland after playing the game.

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Multiplayer.it

Nintendo Switch

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is artistically extraordinary, with a visually stunning world, engaging story, and captivating soundtrack. It is well-balanced in terms of difficulty and maintains player interest even after the credits roll.

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Softpedia

Dec 11, 2023

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

A good exploration-focused game with Scottish charm

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GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Dec 5, 2023

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

A Highland Song is well worth the price and offers a heartwarming story and enjoyable gameplay

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