Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Botany Manor

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

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Puzzle and Logic, Casual, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 9, 2024

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

DeveloperBalloon Studios

Overview

Welcome to Botany Manor, a stately home in 19th century England. You play as its inhabitant Arabella Greene, a retired botanist. Explore your house and gardens, filled with botanical research, to figure out the ideal habitat for a collection of forgotten flora. Grow each plant to discover the mysterious qualities they hold…

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Story of Botany Manor is a hauntingly immersive tale of a Victorian female botanist’s quiet rebellion, praised for its rich environmental storytelling, thematic depth on gender and science, and emotional resonance—though its brevity and simplicity draw minor criticism, overshadowed by its unique, character-driven narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised The Story of Botany Manor for its rich, evocative narrative that delves into the challenges faced by Arabella Greene, a female botanist in Victorian England. Gamers’ Temple highlighted the game’s exploration of her struggles through the lens of her ancestral home, while Windows Central and Nintendojo emphasized the use of notes, letters, and environmental storytelling to convey her quest to fill a herbarium and complete her research. The Guardian and PC Invasion commended the game’s thematic depth, particularly its focus on women’s roles in the 19th century and the patriarchal barriers Arabella navigates. Noisy Pixel and GameGrin noted the subtle yet powerful storytelling, with the latter pointing to letters and visual clues as key elements that enrich the experience. Critics consistently lauded the game’s ability to immerse players in a historical setting, using physical and audio hints to gradually reveal Arabella’s background and the manor’s secrets, creating a narrative that feels both personal and profound. While the game’s story was widely celebrated, some reviewers pointed to its brevity and limited replayability. XboxAddict noted that the narrative is "shorter" and "focused on puzzles and tasks at hand," suggesting that the experience may feel too concise for some players. Movies Games and Tech described the story as "simple yet engaging," which could imply a lack of complexity or depth in certain aspects. However, these critiques were relatively minor compared to the overall praise, and many critics acknowledged that the game’s strengths in storytelling and atmosphere compensate for its shorter length. The emphasis on environmental exploration and discovery, as highlighted by BaziCenter and PC Invasion, was seen as a deliberate design choice that prioritizes emotional resonance over extended gameplay, though it may not appeal to those seeking a more expansive plot. Despite these minor reservations, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the narrative of The Story of Botany Manor being a standout feature. The game’s ability to weave themes of gender inequality, scientific ambition, and historical mystery into a cohesive and immersive experience was frequently cited as its greatest strength. While some noted its simplicity or brevity, the majority agreed that the story’s subtlety, attention to detail, and evocative world-building create a compelling journey. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Adventure Gamers emphasized the game’s thoughtful approach to storytelling, which resonates through its environmental clues and character-driven themes. The narrative’s focus on Arabella’s personal and professional challenges, told through letters, paintings, and hidden details, was seen as a unique and effective way to engage players, solidifying the game’s reputation as a narrative-driven gem that successfully balances historical context with emotional depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Botany Manor shines with inventive, plant-centric puzzles that blend cozy exploration and clever problem-solving, earning widespread acclaim for its accessible charm and creative design—though minor gripes about ease or ambiguity linger, they’re overshadowed by its rewarding, nature-themed gameplay that balances challenge and accessibility. A standout title for puzzle fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Botany Manor is widely praised for its engaging and inventive puzzle-solving mechanics, which center around cultivating plants by uncovering clues and tools within the mansion. Critics like Gamers' Temple and XboxAddict highlight the game’s focus on "germinating and growing plants" through "unique and interesting puzzles," emphasizing its cozy, immersive, and challenging nature. Windows Central and GameGrin commend the casual, approachable design, noting that new mechanics are introduced consistently to maintain interest. Nintendojo and Noisy Pixel appreciate the "cleverly crafted" and "chilled-out" puzzles, while Adventure Gamers and PC Invasion stress the satisfaction of matching seeds to environmental conditions through backtracking and critical thinking. The game’s emphasis on exploration and discovery, paired with straightforward controls and quality-of-life features, creates a rewarding experience that balances creativity with accessibility. While the majority of reviews laud Botany Manor’s gameplay, some critics point to minor drawbacks. Nintendojo notes that the puzzles might feel "easy for experienced puzzle game players," suggesting a potential lack of challenge for veterans. BaziCenter mentions that "some puzzles may feel ambiguous," which could test patience or clarity for certain players. These critiques are relatively isolated, however, and often framed as subjective rather than systemic issues. The game’s reliance on attention to detail and environmental storytelling occasionally risks being perceived as obtuse, but most reviewers agree that these moments are outweighed by the satisfaction of solving them. The slight criticism about difficulty levels or ambiguity does not detract from the overall positive reception, as the core mechanics remain well-received. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the gameplay of Botany Manor being described as "very good" by the majority. Guardian and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the game’s ability to blend exploration with puzzle-solving, creating a sense of achievement through its interconnected set pieces and plant-growth mechanics. XboxAddict and GameGrin highlight the intellectual depth and creativity required, while Noisy Pixel and PC Invasion praise the balance between challenge and enjoyment. Even the critiques about puzzle difficulty or clarity are framed as minor nuances rather than major flaws, underscoring the game’s strengths in fostering curiosity and rewarding player engagement. Collectively, the reviews paint Botany Manor as a standout title that successfully merges casual appeal with thoughtful, nature-themed gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Botany Manor earns universal acclaim for its dazzling visuals—pastel landscapes, lush gardens, and stylized 3D environments craft an immersive, whimsical English countryside. While minor technical glitches and low-detail pixel art drew some critique, they’re drowned out by its artistic charm and tranquil allure, cementing it as a standout visual feast.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics lauded Botany Manor for its exceptional graphics and visual design, emphasizing its charming and immersive aesthetic. Windows Central praised the "gorgeous, soft visual style" with "pastel visuals" that create a "vibrant and lively world," while XboxAddict described the game as "downright beautiful," highlighting its ability to transport players to the English countryside through "blue skies, colorful flora, and green rolling hills." Nintendojo commended the "gorgeously designed" manor, noting its "beautiful interior decor" and "visually appealing gardens" that align perfectly with the game’s design. Adventure Gamers and GameGrin both celebrated the "stylized 3D graphics" and "excellent visual design," respectively, pointing to the meticulous attention to detail in environments like the mansion and gardens. GAMINGbible and PC Invasion further praised the "stunning pixel art" and "vivid, picturesque art style," with the latter noting "smooth textures" and "rich environmental details" that make the manor feel "alive despite being empty." The game’s visual appeal is consistently framed as a key strength, with critics across platforms (Xbox, PC, PS5) agreeing on its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and relaxation. While the overall reception was overwhelmingly positive, a few critics noted minor technical or stylistic limitations. Noisy Pixel observed that the art style is "low-detail but effective," with "pops of color and foliage that stand out," and mentioned that the atmosphere becomes "immaculate once the initial graphical issue is resolved." This suggests that some players might have encountered early technical hiccups, though they were reportedly minor and fixable. Additionally, the use of pixel art and stylized 3D graphics, while praised for their retro charm and artistic flair, could be seen as a departure from hyper-realistic expectations. However, these critiques were not widespread and often framed as trade-offs for the game’s unique visual identity rather than significant flaws. The consensus among most reviewers was that the art style’s charm and creativity outweighed any technical shortcomings. The overall consensus among critics is that Botany Manor’s graphics and visual design are a standout feature, with a near-unanimous agreement on its beauty and immersive quality. The game’s ability to blend "vibrant colors," "masterful lighting," and "attention to detail" into a cohesive, relaxing experience was frequently highlighted, with the English countryside setting feeling both authentic and whimsical. While Noisy Pixel’s mention of low detail and initial graphical issues acknowledged some technical imperfections, these were overshadowed by the praise for its "painterly" environments, "charming character designs," and the way it "encourages exploration." The visual style, whether through pastel tones, pixel art, or stylized 3D, was consistently described as a core element of the game’s appeal, creating a world that feels both artistic and inviting. This strong, unified positive reception underscores the game’s success in delivering a visually engaging and emotionally resonant experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Botany Manor’s sound design and music are lauded for their immersive, emotionally resonant Victorian atmosphere, with subtle audio cues and sparse scores enhancing storytelling without overpowering the tranquil, narrative-driven experience—critics call it a masterclass in seamless, purposeful audio that defines the game’s charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Botany Manor are widely praised for their ability to enhance the game’s atmosphere and emotional depth. Critics like Windows Central and XboxAddict highlight the "emotional backing soundtrack" and "well-crafted soundtrack and audio effects," which they argue complement the gameplay and create an immersive experience. Adventure Gamers and GameGrin note the "varied sound effects" and "subtle, fitting" background music, emphasizing how elements like birdsong, footsteps, and gentle string melodies contribute to the Victorian setting. GAMINGbible and Noisy Pixel describe the music as "delightful" and "gentle," respectively, while PC Invasion and BaziCenter commend the "immersive sound design" and "calming atmosphere" achieved through ambient details like crackling fireplaces and natural sounds. These reviews collectively underscore the music’s role in evoking a sense of place and reinforcing the game’s narrative without relying on dialogue, as noted by XboxAddict and Nintendojo. While most reviews focus on the strengths of Botany Manor’s audio, Nintendojo offers a nuanced perspective, pointing out that the music is "fairly absent" but "suits the setting perfectly." This suggests that the game’s minimalistic approach to its soundtrack is intentional, allowing environmental sounds to take precedence. However, this observation is framed as a positive, as the critic notes the lack of continuous music is "not noticeable," implying that the audio design is seamless and unobtrusive. No other critics mention this as a drawback, and the overall tone remains consistently favorable, with even the "absence" of music being seen as a deliberate choice that aligns with the game’s tranquil, story-driven style. The subtle integration of sound effects and music appears to be a shared design philosophy across platforms, as highlighted by BaziCenter and PC Invasion. The overall consensus among critics is that Botany Manor’s sound design and music are integral to its success, creating a cohesive and evocative experience. While some emphasize the emotional resonance of the score (e.g., Windows Central, GAMINGbible), others focus on the environmental audio’s role in storytelling and immersion (e.g., Adventure Gamers, PC Invasion). The game’s approach to music—whether sparse or subtle—seems to be universally appreciated, with Nintendojo and BaziCenter both acknowledging how it enhances the Victorian setting without overwhelming the player. The lack of a constant score is not seen as a weakness but rather as a strength, allowing the ambient sounds to guide the player’s experience. This alignment of audio with the game’s visual and narrative elements has been consistently recognized, making the sound design a standout feature across all platforms.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Botany Manor’s serene, puzzle-filled charm is undermined by its 3-4 hour runtime and minimal content, resulting in a short, niche title with limited replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

92%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews of Botany Manor highlight several positive aspects that could contribute to its replay value, despite its brevity. Critics like Nintendojo and GAMINGbible note that the game’s serene, immersive atmosphere and aesthetic beauty might entice players to revisit it for a calming experience, even if the narrative is linear. GAMINGbible specifically mentions bonus content such as collectibles and replayable levels, which could provide incentive for players to return. Additionally, Adventure Gamers acknowledges the satisfaction of solving increasingly complex puzzles, suggesting that the challenge and progression might appeal to fans of puzzle games. These elements, combined with the game’s relaxing tone, create a foundation for potential replayability, particularly for those who value its unique art style and meditative gameplay. However, the majority of critics express concerns about the game’s limited replay value, primarily due to its short length and lack of additional content. Windows Central, XboxAddict, and GameGrin all emphasize that the game’s 3–4 hour runtime, coupled with no side quests or meaningful post-game content, makes it feel underwhelming for the price. Noisy Pixel and BaziCenter further critique the repetitive gameplay and absence of secrets or plot twists, which could deter players from returning. Guardian and Movies Games and Tech acknowledge the game’s immersive qualities but concede that its brevity and lack of substantial post-play incentives make it less likely to be revisited. These criticisms collectively underscore a perception that Botany Manor prioritizes quality over quantity, which may not satisfy players seeking extended engagement. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward the game being a short, niche experience with limited replayability. While some, like PC Invasion, argue that its six-hour runtime is “perfect” for a puzzle game and that its engaging mechanics justify its length, others, such as GameGrin and XboxAddict, find the content insufficient for the price. The divide reflects differing expectations: players who prioritize atmosphere and puzzle-solving may appreciate its concise design, while those seeking deeper narratives or extended gameplay will likely find it lacking. Ultimately, Botany Manor is seen as a charming, relaxing title that excels in its design but falls short in delivering the sustained engagement required for high replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Botany Manor’s serene, puzzle-filled charm is undermined by its 3-4 hour runtime and minimal content, resulting in a short, niche title with limited replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment toward Botany Manor is overwhelmingly positive, with critics highlighting its engaging gameplay, immersive storytelling, and relaxing atmosphere. Gamers’ Temple praises its "engaging gameplay, storytelling through exploration, and relaxing experience," while Windows Central describes it as a "charming and engaging puzzle-adventure game with a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful visuals." XboxAddict emphasizes the "nice balance of challenge and laid-back puzzle elements," and Nintendojo notes its "immersive setting, clever puzzles, and subtle storytelling," calling it a "pleasant and beautiful puzzle experience." Adventure Gamers and Guardian both commend its "visually stunning and immersive experience" and "delightfully immersive" qualities, respectively, with the latter comparing it to classics like Myst and The Witness. Additionally, PC Invasion hails it as "potentially the best puzzle game of 2024," and Movies Games and Tech lauds its "interesting story, balanced puzzles, beautiful visuals, and pleasing soundtracks," reinforcing its appeal as a cozy, exploration-focused title. These reviews collectively underscore the game’s strengths in creating a serene, puzzle-driven environment that captivates players through its meticulous design and narrative subtlety. Despite the praise, several critics point to notable drawbacks, particularly its brevity and occasional lack of depth. Windows Central acknowledges the "short length and some technical issues," while GameGrin suggests the "price may be a bit high for the content offered," implying that the game’s length might not justify its cost for some players. Adventure Gamers also notes the absence of a "strong emotional connection to the protagonist," which could leave certain audiences wanting more. BaziCenter adds that the game may not satisfy those seeking "complex narratives or intense gameplay," emphasizing its focus on simplicity and calmness over depth. Noisy Pixel, while praising its charm, mentions it is "relatively short," and XboxAddict’s "delightfully immersive" description doesn’t address potential concerns about replayability or narrative complexity. These critiques suggest that while Botany Manor excels in atmosphere and puzzle design, its limited scope and lack of emotional or narrative intensity may not resonate with all players. The consensus among critics is that Botany Manor is a highly enjoyable, if modest, puzzle-adventure game that prioritizes charm, aesthetics, and accessibility. While some highlight its shortcomings—such as technical issues, brevity, or minimal emotional stakes—the majority agree that its strengths outweigh these flaws. PC Invasion’s assertion that it could be "the best puzzle game of 2024" and Nintendojo’s recommendation for "fans of puzzle games" reflect its broad appeal to enthusiasts of the genre. The game’s ability to create a "peaceful escape" (BaziCenter) and "cozy puzzle experience" (XboxAddict) is frequently cited, positioning it as a standout for players seeking a meditative, exploration-driven journey. Critics like GameGrin and Guardian acknowledge its accessibility and "upfront accessibility options," suggesting it caters to casual audiences. Though not without its flaws, the overwhelming praise for its immersive setting, clever puzzles, and relaxing tone indicates that Botany Manor is a well-received title that successfully delivers a unique, tranquil experience in the puzzle genre.

TL;DR

Botany Manor dazzles with serene visuals, clever puzzles, and immersive storytelling, earning praise as a potential 2024 puzzle gem—but its brevity, minimal emotional stakes, and minor technical hiccups leave some wanting more depth. A cozy, accessible escape for fans, but not for those craving complexity.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

Movies Games and Tech

PlayStation 5

May 12, 2025