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MONSTER

After Us

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMay 23, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperPiccolo

Overview

Explore the corners of a surrealistic post-human world to give life on Earth a second chance in this touching story about sacrifice and hope.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

After Us receives a mix of positive and negative reviews for its narrative. Critics praise its exploration of environmental themes and emotional impact, while some criticize its lack of clarity and depth. Despite flaws, most appreciate its compelling story of restoration in a post-apocalyptic world.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Story of After Us has garnered a mix of positive and negative reviews from critics, showcasing a variety of perspectives on its narrative. Critics such as But Why Tho? and TheXboxHub appreciate the game's exploration of environmental themes and the hope it presents for the future of humanity and the planet. Generación Xbox and ZTGD also highlight the game's grim yet thought-provoking storyline, with ZTGD praising the incredible art direction that enhances the overall experience. These positive aspects of the game's story resonate with players looking for a meaningful and emotionally impactful narrative experience. On the other hand, some critics, like App Trigger and IGN, express concerns about the lack of clarity and depth in After Us's story. App Trigger criticizes the worn-out trope of humans destroying the planet, while IGN points out the lack of dialogue and linear progression leading to an anti-climactic conclusion. Dexerto and Worth Playing also mention the narrative's instability and lack of depth, indicating a missed opportunity to delve deeper into the themes presented in the game. These criticisms suggest that the story may not fully engage all players due to its perceived shortcomings in storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the positive side, with many praising After Us for its emotional narrative, environmental themes, and impactful message about the consequences of human actions on the planet. Critics like GamingTrend, Impulsegamer, and Push Square commend the game for its compelling and moving tale of restoration and healing in a post-apocalyptic world. While some critics point out flaws in the story's execution and depth, the majority appreciate the game's attempt to deliver a meaningful and thought-provoking experience. Ultimately, After Us seems to have succeeded in delivering a poignant narrative that resonates with players looking for a story that reflects on humanity's impact on the environment and the potential for redemption.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

After Us gameplay: Critics praise platforming & puzzles, but criticize controls and combat. Mixed reception highlights engaging exploration but hindered by imprecise mechanics. Offers potential for immersive experiences, but flaws may impact enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

26%

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

The gameplay of After Us has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from various critics. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Generación Xbox praised the platforming and puzzle elements, highlighting smooth controls and engaging progression. Additionally, Finger Guns appreciated the focus on exploration and platforming over combat, with slick controls and interesting environments to explore. GAMINGbible also commended the wide range of platforming mechanics available, making the gameplay enjoyable and varied. These positive aspects of the gameplay showcase the potential for immersive and engaging experiences within After Us. On the other hand, several critics expressed concerns about the gameplay mechanics of After Us. Windows Central criticized the platforming mechanics for being awkward and frustrating, citing camera issues and confusing level design as hindrances. ZTGD found the platforming controls to be floaty and challenging, with combat feeling lackluster and poorly guided. Game Informer and GameCritics echoed similar sentiments, with imprecise platforming mechanics and underwhelming combat experiences. Dexerto and COGconnected also highlighted imprecise controls and lack of gameplay variety as drawbacks. These criticisms point towards significant issues with the core gameplay elements that may impact the overall player experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the gameplay of After Us leans towards a mixed reception. While some critics appreciated the engaging platforming, exploration, and puzzle-solving aspects of the game, others found issues with imprecise controls, lackluster combat, and repetitive gameplay elements. Critics like Push Square and Impulsegamer highlighted the potential for improvement in platforming controls and combat encounters. Despite the varied opinions, it is evident that After Us offers a diverse range of gameplay mechanics, with some aspects resonating positively with critics while others falling short of expectations. Players may find enjoyment in the immersive platforming experience, but the game's flaws in certain gameplay elements may hinder overall enjoyment for some.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about After Us' stunning and imaginative graphics, praising its unique art style, surreal environments, and diverse biomes that vividly depict a post-apocalyptic world. However, some critics noted flaws like inconsistent level design and repetitive models. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the game offering a visually striking and artistically impressive experience despite minor drawbacks.

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 majority of critics were highly impressed by the graphics and visual design of After Us, praising its stunning and imaginative environments. Critics such as TheXboxHub and Game Informer highlighted the game's unique and spellbinding visual experience, with stunning abstract landscapes and haunting imagery that effectively conveys the post-apocalyptic setting. The art direction was commended for its surreal atmospheres, impactful imagery, and distinct regions that showcase the consequences of human actions. GamingTrend and PlayStation Universe also noted the visually and thematically different art design in each region, contributing to the game's overall atmosphere. On the flip side, some critics did point out certain drawbacks in the graphics and visual design of After Us. App Trigger and Hey Poor Player criticized aspects like random cars suspended in mid-air, boring greys, and design choices for the playable character Gaia. IGN mentioned inconsistent level design and flaky controls that hindered the overall experience, while Screen Rant noted a lack of subtlety in the imagery surrounding the climate crisis and repeated character and item models that made the world feel smaller than it could be. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards the positive aspects of the game's graphics and visual design. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of After Us. The game was praised for its stunning, surreal, and imaginative environments that effectively convey the post-apocalyptic narrative and the consequences of human actions on the world. Critics appreciated the game's unique art style, haunting imagery, and diverse biomes that visually represent the pollution and destruction caused by humanity. While some critics pointed out minor flaws and inconsistencies in the design, the majority agreed that the graphics and visual design of After Us were very good, making it a visually striking and artistically impressive experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise After Us for its exceptional Sound Design and Music, with the soundtrack lauded for enhancing emotional depth and atmosphere. The original music is described as dreamy and soulful, perfectly accompanying gameplay. While some critics found the music not very memorable, the majority agree that it enhances the overall experience. Inspired by Vangelis and Blade Runner, the synth-driven score adds depth to the post-apocalyptic world, immersing players in the game's narrative effectively.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of After Us have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. Many reviewers praised the game's soundtrack for its ability to enhance the emotional depth and atmosphere of the game. TheXboxHub highlighted the original music as "dreamy, beautiful, and soulful," with Daniel Elms' score being described as a perfect accompaniment to the gameplay. GamingTrend also commended the score, mentioning how it shifts to coincide with different regions, enhancing the visual journey. Additionally, PlayStation Universe noted the haunting soundtrack that fits the world perfectly, with Gaia singing to animal spirits blending well with the game's overall atmosphere. Despite the widespread acclaim, a few critics had mixed feelings about the Sound Design and Music of After Us. COGconnected mentioned that the music meanders and is not very memorable, indicating a lack of impact or distinctiveness in the soundtrack. This sentiment contrasts with the majority of reviewers who found the music to be immersive and enhancing of the gameplay experience. While this negative feedback is present, it appears to be in the minority compared to the overwhelmingly positive reception from other critics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Sound Design and Music of After Us play a crucial role in elevating the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. The synth-driven musical score, inspired by Vangelis and Blade Runner, received particular praise for adding depth to the dark and gloomy post-apocalyptic world of the game, as noted by IGN. The soundtrack was also commended for its range of emotional and epic tracks, enhancing the overall experience, as highlighted by WellPlayed. Despite a few dissenting voices, the general sentiment leans heavily towards the positive, with the majority of critics appreciating the music's ability to immerse players in the world of After Us and complement the game's narrative and visuals effectively.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

After Us has a bumpy ride on different gaming platforms. Xbox Series X offers a relatively smooth experience with minor glitches, while PlayStation 5 and PC face more technical issues like crashes, frame drops, and freezing, affecting gameplay quality. Reviewers have mixed opinions, with some praising smoother experiences and others highlighting significant problems, indicating varying technical performance across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

38%

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

In terms of technical performance on Xbox Series X, TheXboxHub mentioned some visual glitches but nothing overwhelming, with forgiving checkpointing and a completion time of around ten hours. This indicates a relatively smooth experience on this platform. However, Windows Central highlighted significant issues such as bugs, performance problems, crashes, and frame drops, detracting from the overall gameplay experience on Xbox Series X. Moving on to the PlayStation 5 platform, there is a mixed bag of opinions regarding technical performance. Areajugones and GamingBolt noted performance issues like screen freezes and frame rate drops, although they did not significantly impact gameplay. On the other hand, critics like Push Square and WellPlayed reported significant problems with combat encounters leading to frame rate drops, crashes, and hindering immersion and atmosphere. Dexerto and God is a Geek also encountered freezing and crashes, affecting the overall experience negatively. On the PC platform, opinions were divided as well. The Games Machine praised the game for being technically smooth and responsive, with no reported issues on the Steam Deck. However, SpazioGames and Worth Playing criticized the game for unstable frame rates, technical uncertainties, frame rate fluctuations, and shader cache preload delays, which hindered the gameplay experience on PC. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of After Us across different gaming platforms. While some reviewers like The Games Machine and TheXboxHub highlighted smoother experiences with minor issues, others such as Push Square and WellPlayed pointed out significant technical problems impacting gameplay. The varying opinions suggest that the game's technical performance may vary depending on the platform, with some platforms experiencing more severe issues than others.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed feelings about the Replay Value of After Us. Some praise its hidden collectibles and post-game features that enhance exploration, while others criticize the lack of motivation for side objectives and limited gameplay engagement. The game's open-ended structure and fast travel system promote replayability, but some suggest it may be more suited for fans of old-school platformers. Overall, opinions vary on whether After Us offers lasting enjoyment for players seeking diverse replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

29%

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

The positive aspects of the Replay Value of After Us, as highlighted by several critics, include the presence of hidden collectibles and completionist goals that provide a satisfying challenge for players who enjoy thorough exploration. Critics like Game Rant and Press Start Australia appreciate the post-game features and the opportunity to uncover hidden collectibles like memories and animal spirits, which not only contribute to the story but also add depth to the world and its inhabitants. The game's open-ended structure, as noted by GameSpot, allows players to revisit areas and utilize a fast travel system to discover missed collectibles, promoting replayability for those who seek to fully immerse themselves in the game world. On the other hand, the negative aspects of the Replay Value of After Us, as pointed out by critics such as GameCritics and GamingTrend, revolve around the lack of incentive to pursue side objectives and the diminishing motivation to engage in optional activities once all abilities are acquired. The gameplay loop, as mentioned by SpazioGames, is described as unengaging and more suitable for fans of old-school platformers, potentially limiting the appeal for a broader audience seeking varied and engaging replay value. Additionally, GamingTrend suggests that the game would have been better suited as a VR experience, indicating a missed opportunity to enhance replayability through immersive gameplay mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Replay Value of After Us leans towards a mixed reception. While some critics appreciate the game's hidden collectibles, completionist goals, and post-game features that contribute to a more immersive experience, others express concerns about the lack of incentive for replaying the game and the potential limitations in gameplay engagement. Despite offering opportunities for exploration and uncovering additional content, the overall sentiment suggests that the game may not have universal appeal in terms of replay value, with opinions varying on the extent of its lasting enjoyment for players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

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

After Us has garnered praise from several critics for its strong narrative backbone, impactful environmental storytelling, and visually stunning design. Critics like But Why Tho? and Finger Guns commend the game for its deep message and engaging exploration, likening it to titles like Journey. The game's emphasis on creative platforming, captivating soundtrack, and thought-provoking themes resonated positively with reviewers such as KeenGamer and Noisy Pixel. Additionally, the hauntingly beautiful imagery and fantastic storytelling in After Us left a lasting impression on critics like PlayStation Universe and Digital Chumps, who appreciated the emotional depth of the experience. On the flip side, some critics pointed out various shortcomings in After Us that hindered its overall appeal. Issues such as repetitive combat, floaty controls, technical performance issues, and lackluster gameplay mechanics were highlighted by reviewers like ZTGD, Push Square, and Worth Playing. The game's failure to deliver on its promises, unpolished platforming, and surplus of unnecessary collectibles were also mentioned as drawbacks by GameCritics. Dexerto and Game Informer noted the lack of originality and engaging gameplay as areas where After Us fell short of expectations, leading to a less immersive and impactful experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Overall Verdict of After Us is mixed. While the game received praise for its strong narrative, visual design, and environmental storytelling, it also faced criticism for its gameplay mechanics, technical issues, and lack of originality. Some critics, like GAMINGbible and WellPlayed, highly recommended After Us for its compelling storytelling and engaging experience, while others, such as GameCritics and Push Square, expressed reservations about its execution and overall impact. Despite its flaws, After Us managed to leave a lasting impression on players who appreciated its emotional depth and thought-provoking themes, making it a title that divided opinions within the gaming community.

TL;DR

After Us impresses with its strong narrative, stunning visuals, and deep themes, drawing comparisons to titles like Journey. Critics praise its creative platforming and captivating soundtrack, but point out flaws like repetitive combat and lackluster gameplay. While some recommend it for its emotional depth, others criticize its execution and lack of originality, making it a divisive title in the gaming community.

MONSTER

Reviews

79 reviews found

But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is a fantastic platformer that shouldn't be missed, with a strong message and deep environmental storytelling.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is a hauntingly beautiful adventure with fantastic storytelling and imagery, impacting players in the best ways possible, though not as impactful as Arise: A Simple Story.

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GameGrin

Jun 13, 2023

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

The game is highly recommended for those who enjoy industrial apocalypse stories and short games. It stands strong in its story, visuals, and ambiance.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

May 23, 2023

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

A memorable journey worth taking

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KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

May 26, 2023

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

After Us offers a unique and engaging experience with a strong focus on storytelling and creative platforming, complemented by stunning visuals and a captivating soundtrack.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is an emotional and engaging game with a strong narrative. It is one of the most original games of 2023 and plays well on the PlayStation 5 with the DualSense controller. However, it may come with a healthy dose of gaming frustration.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 31, 2023

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

After Us is a great experience with outstanding level design, visuals, and soundscore. It may be too depressing for some and the combat is repetitive, but it serves as a warning to the world we live in.

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The Games Machine

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is a challenging platform adventure with an interesting setting and complex world design. Some technical control issues do not significantly impact the experience. Recommended for fans of exploration-based platformers.

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GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is described as impactful and a must-play, with compelling storytelling, good variety of platforming mechanics, and creative level design. It receives a score of 8/10.

Shacknews

May 23, 2023

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

After Us is a satisfying puzzle-platformer with engaging gameplay mechanics and a poignant message.

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