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Afterlove EP

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

2025

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

AvailableFeb 14, 2025

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

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.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP is praised for its emotional storytelling, tackling themes of grief and personal growth through relatable characters, notably the protagonist Rama. Critics laud its depth and ability to foster reflection, though some note weaknesses in narrative execution and cohesion. Overall, it’s recognized as a touching and impactful experience in narrative-driven gaming, despite some areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Story of Afterlove EP has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its exploration of profound themes such as grief, loss, and personal growth. Reviewers like Adventure Gamers and But Why Tho? highlight the narrative's emotional depth and the well-realized characters that resonate with players on a personal level. The protagonist, Rama, is depicted as a relatable figure navigating the complexities of his relationships and emotional struggles, which many critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and Finger Guns, found to be poignant and introspective. The heartfelt narrative, coupled with the game's ability to evoke reflection on players' own experiences, has been a consistent point of praise across various reviews. However, some critics have pointed out weaknesses in the execution of the story. The Indie Informer mentions that while the themes are authentic, certain events could have been more impactful if they had been highlighted better. Additionally, Nintendo Life notes that the narrative sometimes lacks cohesion, which can detract from the overall experience. RPG Fan echoes this sentiment, suggesting that while the story explores significant themes, the execution can feel awkward and oppressive at times. These critiques indicate that while the narrative is compelling, there are areas where it could have been strengthened to enhance player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Afterlove EP presents a touching and impactful narrative that resonates with many players. The majority of reviewers, such as Multiplayer.it and Shacknews, appreciate the game's ability to evoke emotional responses and encourage reflection on grief and personal growth. Despite some criticisms regarding the depth of certain story elements and execution, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game successfully tackles sensitive subjects with respect and authenticity. This combination of heartfelt storytelling and relatable character development positions Afterlove EP as a noteworthy title in the realm of narrative-driven games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP impresses with its deep narrative and unique mix of visual novel and rhythm-action elements, enhancing player immersion. Critics praise the character interactions and decision-making that shape the story, but many also highlight major flaws: frustrating hidden relationship dynamics, simplistic rhythm mechanics, and limited player agency. The gameplay can feel restrictive and disjointed, leaving those seeking a more engaging experience wanting more. Overall, it’s a compelling story hampered by significant gameplay shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

21%

Mixed (50-79)

79%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Afterlove EP has been generally praised for its narrative depth and unique blend of genres. Critics like Adventure Gamers and Shacknews highlight the game’s effective combination of visual novel elements with rhythm-action mini-games, noting that these mechanics enhance player immersion and reflect the protagonist Rama's emotional journey. The game allows players to engage in character interactions and decision-making, which can influence the story's outcome, as pointed out by GameMAG and Loot Level Chill. Additionally, the incorporation of a calendar system for managing daily activities adds an interesting layer to the gameplay, providing structure and a sense of progression, as noted by NintendoWorldReport. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the gameplay experience. Many critics, including But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming, express frustration over the hidden solutions in relationship dynamics that can lead to undesirable outcomes, which detracts from the enjoyment of exploring the narrative. The rhythm mechanics have been widely criticized for their simplicity and lack of challenge, with critics like Multiplayer.it and Vandal suggesting they feel more like an accessory than a core gameplay component. Furthermore, the limited player choice and passive nature of the gameplay, as highlighted by Finger Guns and Gameliner, can make the experience feel railroaded and unsatisfying for those seeking a more interactive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Afterlove EP offers a compelling narrative and unique gameplay blend, it suffers from significant limitations in interactivity and challenge. Many reviewers appreciate the storytelling and character interactions but are disappointed by the simplistic rhythm mechanics and the feeling of reduced player agency. Critics like RPG Fan and TheSixthAxis emphasize that the gameplay can often feel restrictive, leading to a disjointed narrative experience. As a result, while the game has its merits, it may not fully satisfy players looking for a more dynamic and engaging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP's visuals shine with a unique hand-drawn, manga-inspired art style that captures Jakarta's essence, impressing critics for its charm and emotional depth. While praised for its vibrant colors and cultural richness, some reviewers note inconsistencies and simplistic character designs that hinder immersion. Overall, the game's striking aesthetic enhances the storytelling, making it a standout in indie gaming despite some areas needing refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Afterlove EP have garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting the game's unique and evocative aesthetic. Many reviewers, such as Adventure Gamers and Shacknews, appreciate the hand-drawn art style that effectively captures the essence of Jakarta, enhancing the game's atmosphere. Critics like But Why Tho? and Gameliner commend the beautifully rendered world, noting that it immerses players in the cultural and emotional landscape of the city. The manga-inspired visuals are frequently described as charming and rich in detail, with Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing how the environments and NPCs contribute to an immersive experience. The vibrant color palette and bold artistic choices are also recognized for enhancing the overall aesthetic, with The Indie Informer noting the stunning visuals that add to the game's appeal. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as some critics point out inconsistencies and areas for improvement. Vandal mentions a lack of cohesion in the hand-drawn anime style, with characters appearing to float within their environments, which detracts from the overall immersion. Finger Guns raises concerns about the simplicity of the 2D aesthetic, suggesting that more defined character designs could enhance the narrative experience. Additionally, while some elements are praised, GameMAG notes that certain cartoonish inserts may feel out of place within the overall visual style. This mixed feedback indicates that while the visuals are generally well-received, there are aspects that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Afterlove EP boasts a distinctive and captivating visual identity that effectively represents Jakarta's culture and atmosphere. The hand-drawn, manga-inspired art style is celebrated for its charm and emotional resonance, as highlighted by critics like RPG Fan and Nintendo Life. Despite some criticisms regarding cohesion and character design, the game's visuals are considered a strong point that enhances the storytelling and immersive experience. The combination of vibrant colors, cultural representation, and artistic flair creates a compelling visual narrative that resonates with players, making Afterlove EP a noteworthy entry in the realm of indie games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP's soundtrack, praised for its emotional depth and quality, enhances the game's atmosphere significantly. Critics commend L'Alphalpha's melancholic yet energetic compositions. However, the rhythm gameplay falls short, lacking engagement and polish, leaving many reviewers feeling the potential of the music is underutilized. Overall, a strong soundtrack meets weak gameplay for a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

35%

Mixed (50-79)

59%

Negative (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 generally positive feedback from critics, highlighting the emotional depth and narrative enhancement provided by the soundtrack. Reviewers such as Adventure Gamers and But Why Tho? praise the music composed by the Indonesian indie band L'Alphalpha for its ability to complement the game's emotional atmosphere. The score is noted for its melancholic yet energetic guitar work, with Adventure Gamers emphasizing its high-quality production that contributes to deeper immersion. Critics like Shacknews and Nintendo Life echo this sentiment, noting that the music enhances the gameplay experience and fits the game's themes well, particularly during rhythm sections. Overall, the soundtrack is described as catchy and meaningful, with many reviewers appreciating its integration into the narrative. However, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's rhythm gameplay and the overall engagement of the soundtrack. Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it express disappointment with the rhythm sections, stating that they feel secondary and lack the scoring or grading systems that could enhance player engagement. Gameliner also mentions that some tracks lack vocal accompaniment, which diminishes their emotional impact. Similarly, WellPlayed notes that the rhythm game sections are the weakest aspect of the experience, feeling more like a chore than an enjoyable gameplay element. Critics like Vandal and TheSixthAxis highlight issues with clarity in inputs during rhythm gameplay, suggesting that the mechanics may not be as polished as expected. In summary, while the music and sound design of Afterlove EP are generally well-received for their emotional resonance and narrative support, there are significant criticisms regarding the rhythm gameplay mechanics. The consensus among critics is that while the soundtrack is of high quality and enhances the game's atmosphere—supported by positive remarks from critics like RPG Fan and Push Square—the rhythm sections fail to deliver a satisfying experience, leading to a mixed overall reception. The combination of strong musical composition with underwhelming gameplay mechanics creates a dichotomy that leaves some reviewers feeling that the potential of the soundtrack is not fully realized.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP has received praise for Risa Mei's emotional voice performance as Cinta, enhancing the connection to protagonist Rama. Critics laud the focus on Cinta's character but note the downsides of having only one voiced character, leading to a less dynamic experience. Technical issues further detract from immersion, causing frustration. Overall, while Cinta's voice acting is a standout feature, the lack of additional voices and glitches result in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Afterlove EP has garnered a generally positive reception, particularly regarding the performance of the character Cinta, voiced by Risa Mei. Critics like Adventure Gamers and Nintendo Life highlight how Cinta's voice adds significant emotional depth to the narrative, enhancing the player's connection to the protagonist, Rama. The consistent presence of Cinta's voice throughout the game is noted as a vital element that contributes to the overall emotional experience, with several reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan, acknowledging how her performance effectively distinguishes her character within the storyline. This singular focus on Cinta, while limited, is seen as a unique narrative choice that allows for a more intimate exploration of Rama's internal struggles. However, the reliance on Cinta as the sole voiced character presents notable drawbacks. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and Gameliner point out that the absence of voice acting for other characters can make the game feel less dynamic and lively. Furthermore, technical issues have been reported, with reviewers like But Why Tho? and Loot Level Chill mentioning bugs that disrupt the playback of Cinta's lines and text scrolling problems that cut off her dialogue. These technical flaws can detract from the immersive experience that the voice acting aims to create, leading to frustrations among players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Cinta's voice acting is a strong point that adds emotional weight to Afterlove EP, the limitations of having only one character voiced and the accompanying technical issues hinder the overall voice acting experience. Critics like Finger Guns and Shacknews acknowledge that while Cinta’s performance is commendable and integral to the narrative, the lack of additional voice acting and the technical glitches can disrupt the flow and immersion of the game. Thus, while the voice acting is a highlight, it is also a source of contention, leading to a mixed but predominantly positive reception.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP has potential but is marred by technical issues across all platforms. While Nintendo Switch users find it generally enjoyable despite some bugs, PC players face frequent crashes and audio glitches that hinder the experience. PS5 reviews highlight serious progression-blocking softlocks and hitbox inconsistencies. Critics agree that the game needs significant refinement to fully realize its promise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

80%

Negative (0-49)

20%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Afterlove EP, it is evident that the game has garnered a mix of opinions across different platforms. Starting with the positives, the game generally performs well on the Nintendo Switch, as noted by Nintendo Life, which highlights that despite some technical issues, the overall experience remains enjoyable. On PC, critics like Finger Guns and Loot Level Chill acknowledge that while there are bugs present, they are manageable and do not significantly detract from the overall experience. GameMAG also points out that the English dialogue is accessible, which is a positive aspect, especially considering the game was developed by a small team. However, the negatives are more pronounced across all platforms. On PC, Adventure Gamers and But Why Tho? report frequent bugs, including audio glitches and crashes, which can severely impact gameplay, especially in later sections. Shacknews adds that minor technical issues like dialogue interruptions and slow text scrolling disrupt the pacing, though they are not game-breaking. On the PS5, both Push Square and TheSixthAxis echo similar sentiments, with reports of inconsistent hitbox registration and softlock issues that prevent progression, further indicating that the game lacks polish. The Nintendo Switch version, while performing well overall, is not without its flaws, as it suffers from freezing and bugs that can disrupt gameplay. The overall consensus among critics is that Afterlove EP exhibits a range of technical performance issues across all platforms, detracting from the player's experience. While there are some redeeming qualities, such as the accessibility of dialogue and manageable bugs on PC, the frequent crashes and glitches reported by multiple critics suggest that the game could benefit from further refinement. The technical shortcomings noted by critics like Vandal and Shacknews indicate a need for a more polished experience, particularly for players on PS5 and PC. Ultimately, while the game has potential, the technical performance issues present a significant hurdle that developers may need to address in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Afterlove EP garners mixed reviews for replay value, praised for its multiple character routes and endings, encouraging exploration. However, frustrations with linear gameplay and lack of meaningful choices may deter many players from revisiting it. The game's appeal is subjective, hinging on personal preferences and tolerance for its limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Afterlove EP reveal a notable appreciation for its potential to engage players through multiple character routes and relationship dynamics. Critics such as Adventure Gamers and Shacknews highlight the game’s ability to encourage exploration of different paths and interactions, suggesting that players can experience varied outcomes based on their choices. The presence of multiple endings, as noted by Multiplayer.it and The Indie Informer, further supports the idea that players may find value in revisiting the game to uncover all possible narratives. Additionally, Vandal points out that the musical and narrative elements contribute to a richer experience, enhancing the incentive for players to explore different routes. However, several critics express concerns about the game's limitations that may hinder its overall replayability. But Why Tho? and RPG Fan specifically mention frustrations with gameplay mechanics and a linear narrative, which could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Finger Guns and Checkpoint Gaming echo this sentiment by noting that while the game offers multiple paths, the lack of meaningful choices diminishes the incentive for replay. Furthermore, Loot Level Chill and WellPlayed highlight that the overall experience may not be compelling enough to encourage players to revisit the game, despite the existence of different endings. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Afterlove EP. While there is recognition of the game’s potential for varied relationship dynamics and multiple endings, many reviewers, including RPG Fan and Checkpoint Gaming, emphasize the drawbacks of a linear narrative and limited impactful choices. This combination of positive aspects and significant limitations indicates that while some players may find value in replaying the game, many others might be discouraged from doing so due to the repetitive nature of the experience. Thus, the replay value of Afterlove EP appears to be situational, heavily reliant on individual player preferences and their tolerance for the game’s structural limitations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

53%

Mixed (50-79)

47%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Afterlove EP from various critics is predominantly positive, highlighting its emotional depth and narrative strength. Reviewers such as Adventure Gamers and Shacknews commend the game for its rich storytelling and heartfelt exploration of themes like grief and personal growth. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Loot Level Chill appreciate the engaging characters and charming visual style, which contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere. The emotional resonance of the narrative is a recurring theme, with many reviewers, including GameMAG and Gameliner, noting the touching experience it provides, making it a worthwhile title for fans of narrative-driven games. However, the game is not without its flaws, as many critics point out various technical issues and gameplay limitations. But Why Tho? mentions frustrating gameplay elements, while Multiplayer.it highlights the struggle to balance different gameplay aspects. Critics like RPG Fan and TheSixthAxis note that the execution can be awkward, and the limited gameplay depth may not resonate with all players. Finger Guns and Vandal also emphasize the lack of agency and interaction, which could potentially frustrate those seeking a more engaging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Afterlove EP being a poignant and meaningful narrative experience, despite its imperfections. While some reviewers, such as NintendoWorldReport and Siliconera, celebrate its storytelling and emotional depth, others caution that the gameplay may not satisfy everyone. The game is generally recommended for those who appreciate narrative-driven experiences, as highlighted by GAMES.CH and Push Square, but potential players should be aware of its technical shortcomings and gameplay limitations. Thus, Afterlove EP stands out as a unique title that, despite its flaws, effectively conveys its themes and offers a reflective journey for its audience.

TL;DR

Afterlove EP garners positive reviews for its emotional storytelling and character depth, resonating strongly with fans of narrative-driven games. Critics praise its heartfelt exploration of grief and personal growth but note significant technical issues and gameplay limitations. While it's a recommended title for those who value narrative, players should brace for frustrating gameplay and a lack of interaction. Overall, it’s a poignant experience that shines despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

41 reviews found

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Feb 13, 2025