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Afterlove EP

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

2025

GenresAdventure, Simulation, Side View Perspective, Visual Novel, Music and Dance, Point & Click, Casual, Single Player

AvailableFeb 14, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperPikselnesia

Overview

Afterlove EP is a slice-of-life adventure about love, loss and music. Explore modern Jakarta as Rama in his journey to learn about himself, create music, find love and come to terms with the loss of his girlfriend Cinta, whose voice still lives on in his head.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP is a critically acclaimed emotional journey that masterfully tackles grief and personal relationships through its protagonist, Rama. Reviewers laud its heartfelt narrative, rich character development, and ability to evoke deep emotional responses, despite some critiques of narrative cohesion and execution. Overall, it’s a poignant exploration of loss that resonates powerfully with players, making it a standout experience in storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Afterlove EP is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and exploration of grief. Reviewers such as Adventure Gamers and But Why Tho? highlight the game's ability to navigate complex themes of loss and personal relationships through the protagonist, Rama. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Finger Guns commend the heartfelt narrative that juxtaposes warm memories with the harsh realities of grief, creating a poignant and introspective experience. The characters are frequently described as well-realized, and the writing is seen as empathetic and impactful, further enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. The narrative's ability to reflect on personal experiences and encourage players to engage with their own feelings of loss is a recurring theme in the reviews. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out areas where the narrative could have been improved. For instance, The Indie Informer noted that while the themes are authentic, certain events lack depth and could have been more impactful if highlighted. Nintendo Life mentioned that the story sometimes lacks cohesion, suggesting that the blending of heavy themes with everyday life could have been better executed. Additionally, RPG Fan remarked that the execution of the narrative can feel awkward and oppressive at times, indicating that while the themes are strong, the delivery may not resonate with all players. These critiques suggest that while the story is compelling, there are moments where it may falter in its execution. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Afterlove EP offers a touching and emotionally charged narrative that effectively explores themes of grief, loss, and personal growth. The majority of reviewers, including GameBlast and Shacknews, found the story to be impactful and relatable, often highlighting its ability to evoke deep emotional responses. While there are some criticisms regarding the depth and cohesion of certain narrative elements, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the game's capacity to engage players on a personal level and encourage reflection on their own experiences with loss.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP impresses with its narrative and visual novel mechanics but stumbles on gameplay depth. Critics praise its emotional storytelling and character interactions, comparing it to Persona, yet many find the rhythm-action elements too simplistic and the choices often lead to predictable outcomes. The experience can feel passive, with overwhelming options and unclear feedback during musical segments. While it shows potential for a rich narrative, it ultimately caters more to visual novel fans than those craving a truly interactive adventure.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Afterlove EP has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly for its narrative-driven approach and the integration of various gameplay elements. Many reviewers, such as Adventure Gamers and Shacknews, appreciate the blend of visual novel mechanics with rhythm-action mini-games, which they feel enhances player immersion and reflects the protagonist's emotional journey. Critics like GameMAG and NintendoWorldReport highlight the game's ability to allow players to shape the story through dialogue choices and interactions with characters, fostering a sense of engagement with the narrative. Additionally, the social simulation aspects, as noted by WellPlayed, provide players with a familiar structure reminiscent of games like Persona, allowing them to explore different facets of the protagonist's life. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism, primarily for its lack of depth and challenge. Many reviewers, including But Why Tho? and Multiplayer.it, point out that the rhythm mechanics are overly simplistic and can feel like an accessory rather than a core component of the experience. Critics such as Gameliner and RPG Fan express frustration with the limited player agency, noting that choices often lead to predetermined outcomes, making the experience feel more passive than interactive. Furthermore, the abundance of options can be overwhelming, as mentioned by The Indie Informer, while others, like GameBlast, criticize the clarity of performance feedback during musical segments, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Afterlove EP successfully weaves together narrative and gameplay elements, it ultimately falls short in providing a fulfilling interactive experience. Many reviewers agree that the rhythm game components lack the necessary complexity to engage players fully, and the limited choices can lead to a sense of frustration and disconnection from the story. Critics like Loot Level Chill and Siliconera recognize the potential for a rich narrative experience but feel that the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a gameplay experience that may appeal more to fans of visual novels than those seeking a robust interactive adventure.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP dazzles with its unique manga-inspired visuals that beautifully capture Jakarta's essence, earning praise for their charm and emotional depth. While some critics note issues like character-environment cohesion and a potentially alienating sketch style, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The hand-drawn aesthetics enhance storytelling and resonate with players, affirming the game's strong cultural representation and emotional journey.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for the graphics and visual design of Afterlove EP present a largely positive sentiment, highlighting the game's unique aesthetic and its ability to capture the essence of Jakarta. Critics such as Adventure Gamers and Checkpoint Gaming commend the manga-inspired art style, noting its charm and how it immerses players in the world. The vibrant illustrations by Soyatu are frequently mentioned, with GameBlast praising their effectiveness in conveying the characters' mundane yet expressive nature. Additionally, the hand-drawn visuals are celebrated for enhancing the storytelling, as noted by The Indie Informer, who describes them as stunning with bold colors that create a vibrant atmosphere. Overall, the visual design is seen as a significant asset that contributes positively to the game's narrative and emotional tone. However, some critiques point out certain shortcomings in the visual design that may detract from the overall experience. Vandal notes a lack of cohesion, suggesting that characters sometimes appear to float within their environments, which can disrupt immersion. Finger Guns mentions that the sketch-like style may alienate some players, indicating that while the 2D aesthetic is effective, it could benefit from more defined character designs. Additionally, Movies Games and Tech express disappointment in the understated visuals, which may not meet the expectations set by other visual novels, suggesting that the game lacks the striking visuals that some players might desire. The overall consensus among critics is that Afterlove EP features a distinctive and appealing visual style that effectively captures the atmosphere of Jakarta and enhances the storytelling experience. While there are minor criticisms regarding cohesion and character design, the majority of reviewers appreciate the hand-drawn, manga-inspired aesthetics, with many highlighting its ability to convey emotion and immerse players in the narrative. Critics like Siliconera and WellPlayed emphasize the game's successful representation of Indonesian culture and the emotional journey of the protagonist, ultimately suggesting that the visuals play a crucial role in the game's impact.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP's soundtrack, featuring emotional guitar work from the Indonesian band L’Alphaalpha, receives acclaim for its depth and narrative support, resonating with themes of grief and hope. However, critics highlight shortcomings in rhythm gameplay and sound design, describing it as secondary and lacking engagement. While the music shines, the rhythm mechanics need improvement to fully harness its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Afterlove EP have garnered significant praise across various reviews, with many critics highlighting the emotional depth and quality of the soundtrack. Adventure Gamers commends the score for its "melancholic yet energetic guitar work," which enhances the narrative experience, while But Why Tho? notes that the music by L’Alphaalpha contributes effectively to the game's emotional atmosphere. Critics such as Shacknews and Game8 emphasize that the soundtrack resonates with themes of grief and hope, effectively complementing the game's narrative. The inclusion of original songs from the Indonesian indie band L’Alphaalpha has been widely appreciated, with many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and Nintendo Life, noting that the music fits the game's vibe perfectly and enhances the overall experience. Despite the positive reception, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and rhythm gameplay. Finger Guns and GameBlast mention that while the soundtrack features emotional depth, the rhythm gameplay feels secondary and lacks proper feedback, which detracts from the overall experience. Multiplayer.it expresses disappointment with the instrumental tracks, stating that they lack engagement and fail to support the narrative effectively. Additionally, some critics, such as Vandal and WellPlayed, find the rhythm game sections to be the weakest aspect of the experience, feeling more like a chore rather than an engaging part of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the music in Afterlove EP is largely praised for its quality and emotional resonance, there are significant concerns regarding the rhythm gameplay mechanics and the lack of vocal accompaniment in some tracks. Critics like Gameliner and Siliconera highlight that the music plays a crucial role in the game's narrative, but the execution of rhythm-based gameplay could be improved. The combination of high-quality music and emotional depth creates a strong foundation, yet the rhythm sections leave room for improvement, suggesting that while Afterlove EP excels in sound design, it may not fully capitalize on its musical potential in gameplay.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP features standout voice acting by Risa Mei as Cinta, adding emotional depth to the narrative, but its reliance on a single voiced character limits overall immersion. Critics praise Cinta's performance, yet highlight the absence of other voices and technical issues, like dialogue timing, as drawbacks that diminish the experience. The game's potential is hampered by these limitations, leaving a mixed impression on its voice acting quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Afterlove EP has been generally well-received by critics, particularly in relation to the character Cinta, who is the sole voice-acted character in the game. Reviewers like Adventure Gamers and GameBlast highlight how Cinta's voice acting adds significant emotional depth to the narrative, enhancing the player's experience as she accompanies the protagonist, Rama, on his journey. Risa Mei's performance as Cinta has been praised for its ability to convey the character's presence effectively, with critics such as But Why Tho? noting her incredible performance. The emotional weight that Cinta's voice brings to the story is a recurring theme, with several critics, including Nintendo Life and RPG Fan, acknowledging how her dialogue enriches the narrative, particularly during pivotal moments. However, the limited scope of voice acting has also drawn criticism. Most reviewers point out that the absence of voice acting for other characters can make the game feel less vibrant and immersive. For instance, Gameliner and Multiplayer.it emphasize that while Cinta's voice adds depth, the overall impact of voice acting is diminished by the focus on a single character. Technical issues have also surfaced, with critics like Finger Guns and Loot Level Chill mentioning problems such as dialogue timing and text scrolling that disrupt immersion. Additionally, Vandal notes that Cinta's constant interruptions can detract from the overall flow of the game, suggesting that her omnipresence may not be to everyone's liking. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Cinta's voice acting is a standout feature that significantly contributes to the emotional narrative of Afterlove EP, the game's reliance on a single voiced character limits the overall voice acting experience. Critics like Shacknews and TheSixthAxis acknowledge the depth that Cinta's performance brings to Rama's internal struggles but also recognize that the lack of diverse voices can lead to a less engaging experience. The technical issues further complicate the reception, leaving a mixed impression of the voice acting aspect of the game. Thus, while there are strong performances that enhance the narrative, the limitations and technical flaws prevent it from achieving its full potential.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP shines on Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch with enjoyable gameplay, but suffers on PC and PS5 due to frequent bugs and crashes. Critics report significant technical issues that hinder immersion, especially on PC with audio glitches and navigation problems, and on PS5 with hitbox inconsistencies and progression locks. Overall, the game needs polish, so approach with caution on less stable platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Afterlove EP across various gaming platforms, it's evident that there are some positives to highlight, particularly on the Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch. Critics like Movies Games and Tech noted that the game on Xbox Series X is characterized by simple controls and responsive inputs, which facilitate an enjoyable navigation experience. On the Nintendo Switch, while there are some technical issues reported, the overall performance is deemed satisfactory, suggesting that the game is still playable and enjoyable despite minor disruptions. This indicates that the game can provide a decent experience on these platforms, allowing players to appreciate the narrative and gameplay mechanics. However, the negatives are more pronounced on the PC and PS5 platforms. Multiple critics, including But Why Tho? and Adventure Gamers, reported frequent bugs and crashes on PC, particularly in later sections of the game, which significantly detracts from the overall experience. Specific issues such as audio glitches, missing map markers, and dialogue navigation problems were highlighted by several reviewers, including GameBlast and Vandal, indicating a lack of polish. On the PS5, critics like Push Square and TheSixthAxis pointed out bugs such as inconsistent hitbox registration in rhythm gameplay and even softlock issues that prevent progression, further compounding the technical challenges faced by players on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms suggests that while Afterlove EP offers an engaging experience, its technical performance leaves much to be desired, particularly on PC and PS5. The frequent bugs and glitches reported by various reviewers indicate that the game could benefit from further polishing and updates. While Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch players may enjoy a relatively smoother experience, the issues highlighted by critics such as Shacknews and Finger Guns suggest that players should approach the game with caution, especially on PC and PS5, where technical problems may disrupt immersion and enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP garners mixed but mostly positive reviews for its replay value, praised for multiple character routes and endings that encourage exploration. Critics highlight its narrative depth and musical elements as engaging factors. However, concerns arise over its linear narrative and lack of impactful choices, which may deter players from replaying. While the game has a foundation for replayability, many agree it needs more meaningful content and improved mechanics to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Afterlove EP present a mixed but generally positive sentiment, particularly highlighting the game's potential for exploration and varied experiences. Critics such as Adventure Gamers and Shacknews commend the game for its multiple character routes and relationship dynamics, which encourage players to delve into different paths and interactions. This aspect of the game is seen as a significant factor in enhancing replay value, with Game8 and Nintendo Life echoing this sentiment by noting that the multiple endings and choices that shape the narrative make it worthwhile for players to experience various outcomes. Additionally, Vandal points out that the musical and narrative elements contribute to replayability, suggesting that players may find value in revisiting the game to explore different routes and experiences. However, several critics express concerns about the limitations that may hinder the overall replay value of Afterlove EP. Checkpoint Gaming and RPG Fan highlight the game's linear narrative and minimal impactful choices, which could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it also note that while the game does offer multiple endings, the lack of meaningful choices and a limited number of partners may reduce the incentive for players to replay the game. Moreover, GameBlast mentions that the absence of a separate mode to replay musical segments further restricts the game's replay value, indicating that the mechanics may not be as engaging as they could be. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Afterlove EP offers some replay value through its multiple endings and character routes, the execution of its narrative and gameplay mechanics presents notable drawbacks. Critics like But Why Tho? and WellPlayed acknowledge that the frustration with gameplay mechanics and the disjointed nature of the narrative could affect players' desire to revisit the game. Thus, while there is a foundation for replayability, many critics agree that the game could benefit from more meaningful choices and content to enhance the overall experience and encourage multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Afterlove EP" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and narrative strength. Adventure Gamers describes it as a "distinctive and brilliant game" that challenges players emotionally, while But Why Tho? highlights the "powerful story about grief" that resonates deeply. Checkpoint Gaming emphasizes the "strong storytelling" and "engaging characters," and Loot Level Chill appreciates the "great writing and lovely atmosphere." Critics like Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport commend the game for its exploration of grief and mental health, with the latter considering it a peak achievement for the development team. This collective appreciation for the narrative and emotional engagement suggests that the game successfully connects with its audience on a meaningful level. However, the reviews also reveal a consensus regarding several shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Many critics point out technical issues and frustrating gameplay elements, with GameBlast noting "gameplay and technical shortcomings" and RPG Fan mentioning "awkward execution and limited gameplay." Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it both express concern over the lack of agency and depth in gameplay, which could frustrate players seeking a more interactive experience. Critics like Shacknews and TheSixthAxis acknowledge these gameplay limitations, indicating that while the story is compelling, the execution may leave some players wanting more. This blend of technical flaws and gameplay issues seems to be a common thread in the critiques. Despite its flaws, the overall consensus among critics is that "Afterlove EP" is a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of narrative-driven games. While some reviewers, like Vandal and Game8, emphasize the game's ability to convey its themes effectively, others, such as WellPlayed and TheSixthAxis, recognize the ambition behind the project despite its imperfections. The game is generally recommended for those who appreciate emotional narratives, as it offers a poignant exploration of grief and personal growth, even if it struggles with certain gameplay mechanics. In summary, "Afterlove EP" is celebrated for its storytelling and emotional resonance, while also being cautioned for its gameplay limitations, creating a nuanced reception that highlights both its strengths and weaknesses.

TL;DR

"Afterlove EP" is hailed for its emotional depth and strong narrative about grief, with critics praising its storytelling and atmosphere. However, it faces criticism for technical issues and limited gameplay, leading to a mixed reception. While the game resonates deeply with fans of narrative-driven experiences, its gameplay shortcomings may leave some players wanting more. Overall, it's a compelling, if flawed, exploration of personal growth and loss.

MONSTER

Reviews

48 reviews found

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Feb 13, 2025