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Afterimage

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Afterimage
Item: Afterimage
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableApr 25, 2023

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

DeveloperAurogon Shanghai

Overview

Reveal the hidden secrets of a fantasy land in Afterimage! Explore the magnificent landscapes and ruins of an ancient metropolis, meeting mysterious colossal beings and adorable roaming spirits along the way. The thrilling adventure of this marvelous 2D hand-drawn world awaits you!

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on Afterimage's story; while some praise its intricate narrative and engaging characters, many slam it as convoluted, confusing, and lacking depth. The overwhelming use of fantasy jargon and poor exposition leaves players feeling indifferent, overshadowing the game's strong gameplay and visuals. Overall, the narrative struggles to resonate, earning a negative consensus among reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions of critics regarding the story of Afterimage reveal a mix of positive elements that some players appreciate. For instance, MondoXbox praises the narrative as "fascinating and intricate," suggesting that it keeps players engaged for a substantial 20 hours. Similarly, Movies Games and Tech highlight the non-linear storyline, which allows for exploration and personal path-defining experiences, resulting in special endings that enhance player satisfaction. Critics like Noisy Pixel also commend the unique premise and well-defined character personalities, indicating that there are elements within the narrative that resonate with certain audiences and contribute to the overall experience. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the story, citing various issues that detract from its effectiveness. Meristation finds the story to be unmemorable, while GameSpew describes it as convoluted and superfluous, leading to a lack of emotional investment. God is a Geek goes as far as to label the story as "plain bad," and many others echo similar sentiments, noting that the narrative is confusing, poorly explained, or lacks depth. Critics like TheGamer and Pocket Tactics specifically mention the excessive use of fantasy jargon and the overwhelming amount of lore that makes it difficult to engage with the story. This sentiment is echoed by reviewers across platforms, indicating a widespread struggle with the narrative clarity. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a negative perception of the story in Afterimage. While there are pockets of appreciation for its intriguing premise and character development, the overwhelming feedback highlights significant flaws, such as convoluted storytelling and a lack of engaging narrative structure. Critics like Gamer Escape and RPG Fan note that while the backdrop of humanity's struggle post-apocalypse is compelling, it ultimately feels standard and fails to stand out. The narrative's complexity, combined with a lack of coherent exposition, has led to a general sense of indifference among many players, suggesting that while the game may shine in gameplay and visual artistry, its storytelling leaves much to be desired.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Afterimage impresses with fluid controls and engaging Metroidvania gameplay, earning praise for its combat mechanics and exploration. Critics highlight satisfying melee combat, diverse abilities, and rewarding discovery, though frustrations arise from tedious backtracking, slow ability progression, and gameplay hiccups. While it excels in core mechanics, players should brace for pacing issues and difficulty spikes. Overall, it’s a compelling experience for genre fans, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Afterimage has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging mechanics and immersive design. Reviewers like Meristation and MondoXbox commend the game for its precise and fluid controls, which enhance the overall experience. The Metroidvania-style gameplay is particularly praised for its variety of weapons, spells, and abilities, as noted by MondoXbox and Gamer Escape. Combat is described as enjoyable and robust, with multiple critics such as New Game Network and Push Square emphasizing the satisfying melee combat and the strategic depth provided by a comprehensive skill tree and diverse arsenal. The exploration aspect is also well-received, with critics like TheGamer and Softpedia noting the rewarding nature of discovering new abilities and navigating the intricately designed world. However, several reviewers pointed out notable drawbacks that could detract from the overall experience. Many critics, including But Why Tho? and Hey Poor Player, expressed frustration with the backtracking mechanics, which can feel tedious, especially when combined with the game's grinding requirements for leveling up. Additionally, some critics like XboxEra and RPG Fan mentioned that the initial level design may lack interest, and the slow progression of unlocking new abilities can lead to a feeling of stagnation early in the game. Furthermore, issues such as collision problems and difficulty spikes, as noted by IGN France and Nintenderos, can disrupt the flow of gameplay and create frustration for players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Afterimage successfully delivers a compelling Metroidvania experience with a solid foundation of gameplay mechanics, but it is not without its flaws. The combat and exploration elements are frequently highlighted as strong points, while the challenges associated with backtracking and grinding are seen as potential barriers for some players. Critics like Screen Rant and GameSpew encapsulate this sentiment well, acknowledging the game's rewarding nature while also cautioning players about the pacing and difficulty spikes that may require patience and skill. Despite its imperfections, Afterimage appears to resonate well with fans of the genre, particularly those who appreciate the combination of RPG elements and challenging combat.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Afterimage wows critics with its stunning hand-drawn visuals and vibrant aesthetics, described as "artistically stunning" and one of the most beautiful metroidvanias. While most praise its rich detail and immersive world, some issues arise: foreground elements can obstruct views, enemies may blend into backgrounds, and the Switch version suffers from performance hiccups. Overall, Afterimage shines as a visually captivating experience but has room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Afterimage is overwhelmingly positive, with a significant number of critics praising its stunning artistry and vibrant aesthetics. Reviewers like Meristation and MondoXbox highlight the game's impressive hand-drawn visuals, describing them as "visually stunning" and "artistically stunning," respectively. Many critics, including Gamer Escape and But Why Tho?, emphasize the game's breathtaking world, which is rich in color and detail, enhancing the overall player experience. The attention to detail in character models and environments is frequently noted, with GameSpew calling it one of the most beautiful metroidvanias they have encountered. The variety and creativity in the game’s design, from the backdrops to the unique character animations, further solidify its visual appeal, as noted by IGN France and New Game Network. However, despite the acclaim, some critics have pointed out notable issues that detract from the visual experience. XboxEra raises concerns about foreground visuals obstructing the player's view, while GameGrin mentions that enemies can sometimes blend into the dense backgrounds, making them difficult to spot. Gamereactor UK also critiques the visual presentation, stating that while stills are beautiful, there is a lack of depth and texture in moving objects, which can create a disconnection from the immersive world. Nintendo Life echoes this sentiment, noting that the Nintendo Switch version struggles with muddy visuals and frame drops, which can hinder the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Afterimage excels in graphics and visual design, with the majority lauding its beautiful hand-drawn art style and vibrant environments. Critics like Softpedia and Screen Rant celebrate the game's aesthetic richness, which enhances exploration and immersion. While some issues regarding visibility and performance on certain platforms have been raised, the overwhelming positivity surrounding the game's visuals suggests that Afterimage stands out as a visually captivating title in the metroidvania genre, making it a commendable experience for players who appreciate artistic design in video games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Afterimage's sound design and music have been largely praised for their immersive and enchanting qualities, enhancing the gaming experience significantly. Critics like IGN France and Multiplayer.it lauded the soundtrack's emotional depth and atmospheric contributions. However, some reviewers noted flaws, such as generic music, forgettable tracks, and subpar voice acting that didn't match the game's visuals. Overall, while the audio enhances the game for many, there are notable areas for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Afterimage have received a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech highlighted the excellence of the sound design and the magical quality of the music, which they felt significantly enhanced the overall gaming experience. Many critics praised the soundtrack for its ability to create an immersive atmosphere, with IGN France describing it as enchanting and immersive, while Multiplayer.it noted that it excellently complemented both exploration and combat. The emotional depth of the music was also acknowledged, with Hey Poor Player emphasizing the somber and heartfelt melodies that align well with the game's themes. Additionally, Pocket Tactics and SpazioGames pointed out the ethereal and elegant qualities of the soundtrack, further reinforcing its positive impact on the game’s fantasy setting. However, not all reviews were uniformly positive. Some critics pointed out shortcomings in the audio presentation. Gamer Escape described the music as unobtrusive and serving more as background ambiance rather than a focal point, suggesting that it didn't stand out significantly. New Game Network criticized the voice acting for not matching the game's visual grandeur, with the protagonist's soft-spoken delivery being particularly noted as lacking. Furthermore, The Games Machine mentioned that while there are good atmospheric pieces, the soundtrack also feels generic and repetitive at times. This sentiment was echoed by Hobby Consolas, who found some songs to be forgettable, indicating a mixed experience with the overall audio quality. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Afterimage's sound design and music contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, albeit with some caveats. While many reviewers, such as IGN France and Multiplayer.it, celebrated the enchanting and immersive qualities of the soundtrack, others like Gamer Escape and New Game Network pointed out that the music and voice acting could be less memorable or even distracting. This blend of praise and criticism highlights a nuanced reception, suggesting that while the sound design and music enhance the experience for many players, there are areas that could be improved to create a more cohesive auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Afterimage’s voice acting garners mixed reviews: Critics praise standout performances from Kira Buckland and Christina Assaf-Costello for adding depth, while others criticize certain deliveries as lackluster or annoying. Despite a generally positive reception, issues with character consistency and delivery suggest there's room for improvement in the game's vocal performances.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Afterimage has garnered a largely positive reception from several critics. Reviewers such as MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech have praised the performances as "well-crafted" and "fantastic," highlighting the ability of the voice acting to bring life and personality to the characters. TheXboxHub also commended the game for being fully voiced, which adds depth to the narrative experience. Additionally, But Why Tho? specifically noted the standout performances of Kira Buckland as Renee and Christina Assaf-Costello as Ifree, emphasizing how their portrayals make players emotionally invested in the characters' struggles. COGconnected echoed this sentiment, describing the voice acting as "charming," which contributes positively to the overall atmosphere of the game. However, not all reviews are as favorable. Gamer Escape described the voice acting as "good enough," indicating that while it adds a layer to the presentation, it lacks a remarkable quality. New Game Network criticized the voice acting for not matching the game's impressive visuals, pointing out that the protagonist's soft-spoken delivery and the sidekick's grating voice detract from the experience. Push Square echoed this concern, specifically calling out the sidekick character's voiceover as annoying. RPG Fan went further, labeling the voice acting as "half-baked" and particularly frustrating for the character Ifrit, which they felt negatively impacted the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception for the voice acting in Afterimage. While many reviewers, particularly those from MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech, found the performances to be engaging and well-executed, others like Gamer Escape and New Game Network highlighted significant shortcomings. The presence of fully voiced dialogue is generally seen as a positive feature, yet the quality of the performances varies, with some characters receiving specific criticism for their delivery. This divergence in opinions indicates that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's presentation, it also leaves room for improvement, particularly in character consistency and delivery.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Afterimage shines on Xbox Series X with smooth, lag-free gameplay, while PC reviews are mixed—some praise its graphics, others note technical flaws. The Nintendo Switch version struggles significantly with frame drops and poor visuals, making it the least favorable platform. Overall, performance varies widely, highlighting a need for optimization on Switch to match the success of other platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

The technical performance of Afterimage varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with notable strengths on both the Xbox Series X and PC. Critics who played the game on Xbox Series X, such as MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech, praised its performance, highlighting "smooth performance" and "buttery smooth" gameplay with no loading times beyond the initial startup. This indicates that the game runs exceptionally well on this console, providing an enjoyable experience for players. On PC, while the feedback is mixed, some reviewers like IGN France noted that the game performs well with "smooth and fluid graphics," suggesting that many aspects of the game are optimized for high-end systems. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version of Afterimage has faced significant criticism regarding its technical performance. Reviewers like Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport pointed out issues such as frame drops, muddy visuals when docked, and unstable framerates, which detract from the overall experience. Pure Nintendo also mentioned lengthy startup times and a clumsy user interface, further emphasizing the struggles faced by Switch players. On PC, while some critics acknowledged engaging core gameplay, others, like Gamereactor UK, described the game as feeling "unpolished and unfinished," with issues related to hitboxes and collision detection. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a clear divide in performance across platforms. The Xbox Series X stands out as the best-performing platform, providing a seamless gaming experience, while the PC version has a mixed reception, with some praising its graphics while others highlight technical flaws. The Nintendo Switch, however, appears to be the least favorable platform, with multiple reviewers noting significant performance issues that hinder gameplay. This disparity indicates that while Afterimage has the potential for a great gaming experience, its execution varies widely depending on the platform, with the Switch version requiring further optimization to match the performance of its counterparts.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Afterimage for its rich world and high replay value, featuring multiple endings, character builds, and extensive content that appeals to dedicated players. However, its challenging gameplay and grind-heavy nature may deter casual gamers, creating a divide in accessibility. Overall, it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Afterimage is predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's rich and expansive world, with MondoXbox noting "rich and interesting quest options," while Movies Games and Tech emphasizes the "massive world" and "multiple endings." The presence of various character builds and a vast arsenal of weapons adds layers of complexity, enhancing replayability. Critics like TheXboxHub and Hey Poor Player also mention the allure of optional content and hidden items, which can keep dedicated players engaged for extended periods. The game’s structure, including New Game + mode and the potential for uncovering new story information, as pointed out by New Game Network, further supports the notion that players can revisit the game for a fresh experience. However, there are notable concerns that temper the enthusiasm for replay value. Gamer Escape mentions that while the game may appeal to hardcore fans, its grinding and difficulty could deter casual players from wanting to replay it. This sentiment is echoed by Screen Rant, which describes the game as requiring patience and a willingness to backtrack for secrets, potentially alienating those less inclined to invest time. The challenge of the game might create a divide between dedicated players and those seeking a more casual experience, suggesting that while the replay value exists, it may not be universally appealing. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Afterimage offers substantial replay value through its multiple endings, extensive content, and hidden secrets, appealing primarily to dedicated players. Critics like Multiplayer.it and The Games Machine reinforce this by noting the significant time investment required for completion, with estimates ranging from 20 to 30 hours for a standard playthrough and even longer for 100% completion. While the game has its challenges, which may limit its accessibility to a broader audience, the overall impression is that Afterimage successfully provides a rewarding experience for those willing to delve deep into its world.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Afterimage" is largely positive, with many critics praising its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and captivating story. Reviewers like MondoXbox and Movies Games and Tech highlight the game's technical fluidity and artistic design, describing it as a "visually stunning metroidvania" that excels in combat and quest design. TheXboxHub also points out the impressive visuals and replay value, while But Why Tho? emphasizes the game's beauty and compelling narrative. Critics across platforms, including Gamer Escape and Push Square, echo similar sentiments, noting that "Afterimage" stands out in the crowded metroidvania genre due to its deep combat mechanics and immersive world. However, the game is not without its flaws, as several reviewers have pointed out various shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. For instance, XboxEra criticizes the foreground visuals that can obstruct player vision, while New Game Network and GameSpew mention a frustrating fast travel system and the potential for players to feel lost or stuck. Critics like God is a Geek and TheGamer express concerns about the game's lack of creativity and direction, with the latter noting an incomprehensible story that hinders the experience. This sentiment is echoed by others, such as RPG Fan and Pocket Tactics, who mention rough edges in storytelling and gameplay mechanics that could be improved. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Afterimage" is a solid entry in the metroidvania genre, offering an enjoyable experience for fans despite its imperfections. While many reviewers, including Meristation and Gamer Escape, acknowledge that the game meets expectations, they also note that it lacks the standout elements that could elevate it to the level of legendary titles. Overall, "Afterimage" is viewed as a visually appealing and enjoyable game that is worth exploring, particularly for those who appreciate the genre, but it may not fully satisfy those seeking a polished or innovative experience.

TL;DR

"Afterimage" impresses with stunning visuals and engaging gameplay, earning praise as a standout metroidvania. Critics highlight its deep combat and captivating narrative, though flaws like obstructive foreground visuals and a frustrating fast travel system mar the experience. While it's a solid choice for genre fans, some find it lacking in creativity and direction. Overall, it's an enjoyable but imperfect title that may not meet the expectations of those seeking a polished experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

51 reviews found

MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Apr 28, 2023

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

Afterimage is a technically fluid and visually stunning metroidvania game with a captivating story and engaging gameplay

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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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The Games Machine

May 19, 2023

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

Afterimage is a well-made metroidvania with above-average content.

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Multiplayer.it

Apr 25, 2023

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

Afterimage is a visually stunning metroidvania game with enjoyable gameplay and a large world to explore. The story could have been better explained, but overall it offers a satisfying experience.

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Everyeye.it

May 3, 2023

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

Afterimage offers a visually appealing and engaging metroidvania experience.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

May 30, 2023

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

Afterimage stands out with a wonderful story, incredible visuals and sound, slick combat, and enjoyable quests, with minor issues of overwhelming world and difficulty remembering abilities

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SpazioGames

Nintendo Switch

May 3, 2023

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

Afterimage is a solid and engaging game worth trying, even for those unfamiliar with the metroidvania genre.

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Softpedia

Jun 26, 2023

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

Overall, Afterimage is an enjoyable Metroidvania experience with beautiful visuals and rewarding exploration, despite its confusing story.

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