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MONSTER

Cassette Beasts

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

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Side View Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableApr 26, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperBytten Studio

Overview

Grab your cassette player - it's time to transform! Collect awesome monster forms to use during turn-based battles in this indie open-world RPG. Combine any two monster forms using Cassette Beasts' Fusion System to create unique and powerful new ones!

Elsewhere

7.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Cassette Beasts is lauded for its original and mature story, well-developed characters, and a unique setting, with critics praising its blend of humor and horror. However, some point out issues with thematic coherence and reliance on familiar tropes, suggesting it doesn't always escape traditional JRPG clichés. Overall, while it has its flaws, the game presents a compelling narrative that stands out in the monster-collecting genre.

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 reviews of Cassette Beasts highlight several positive aspects of its story, emphasizing its originality and depth. Critics like PCMag and Multiplayer.it praise the game for its mature and intriguing narrative, noting that it diverges from typical tropes found in monster-collecting games. The characters are described as well-written and relatable, with Nintendo Life appreciating the care taken in their development. The setting of New Wirral, a mysterious island filled with unique inhabitants and monsters, adds an engaging layer to the exploration and character interactions, as noted by Shacknews and Siliconera. The presence of interpersonal narratives and a blend of humor and horror, as pointed out by GGRecon and RPGamer, further enrich the storytelling experience. However, there are some criticisms regarding the story's execution. Nintendo Life mentions a thematic incoherence in the narrative, suggesting that while the ideas are refreshing, they may not come together cohesively. Metro GameCentral echoes this sentiment, indicating that the story setup slightly diverges from the Pokémon norm but still indulges in traditional JRPG clichés. This perception of a lack of originality is echoed by other critics who feel that while the game offers intriguing concepts, it sometimes falls into familiar storytelling patterns that may detract from its overall impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Cassette Beasts presents a compelling and engaging story, albeit with some inconsistencies. The game successfully creates a unique world filled with interesting characters and mature themes, as highlighted by reviewers like God is a Geek and The Games Machine. While some critics, such as Nintendo Life and Metro GameCentral, point out weaknesses in thematic cohesion and reliance on tropes, the majority of feedback leans towards a positive reception of the narrative. The blend of humor, horror, and slice-of-life elements, combined with a strong character focus, positions Cassette Beasts as a noteworthy title in the genre, appealing to players looking for a fresh take on traditional monster-collecting narratives.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Cassette Beasts has received positive reviews for its innovative gameplay, blending open-world exploration with strategic battles, particularly praised for its Fuse mechanic and monster evolution. Critics note its addictive nature and depth, but some mention potential repetitiveness and overwhelming complexity for newcomers. Despite minor criticisms, the game is celebrated as a standout in the monster-collecting RPG genre, appealing to traditional fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Cassette Beasts has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its innovative mechanics and engaging exploration. Reviewers like Gamereactor UK highlight the open-world exploration and strategic battle mechanics, noting the complexity introduced by the Fuse mechanic and ability points. Similarly, God is a Geek praises the unique idea of transforming into monsters recorded on cassette tapes, while Hardcore Gamer emphasizes the addictive nature of the gameplay loop that combines town exploration with engaging battles. The fusion abilities and evolving monsters are consistently mentioned as standout features, with critics like RPGamer and Shacknews noting the depth and customization options they provide, making the gameplay experience feel rich and rewarding. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the gameplay experience. COGconnected points out that the combat can become repetitive over time, which may detract from the overall enjoyment for some players. Additionally, Nintendo Life mentions that the complexity of the monster typing and move mechanics can be overwhelming, particularly for newcomers to the genre. The varying quality of puzzles, as noted by TheGamer, also suggests that while some provide a satisfying challenge, others can feel too easy or frustratingly difficult, potentially disrupting the flow of gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Cassette Beasts delivers a compelling gameplay experience that successfully blends classic turn-based mechanics with innovative features. The majority of reviewers, including GGRecon and Metro GameCentral, commend the game's depth and strategic options, particularly the fusion mechanics and open-world exploration. While there are some concerns about repetitiveness and complexity, the positive aspects of the gameplay, such as the engaging combat and exploration, overshadow these issues. As a result, Cassette Beasts is viewed as a strong entry in the monster-collecting RPG genre, appealing to both fans of traditional turn-based systems and those seeking fresh mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Cassette Beasts impresses with its unique graphics and imaginative monster designs, earning praise for its vibrant retro aesthetic and successful blend of 2D and 3D elements. Critics laud the charming character designs, but some point out shortcomings like lackluster environments and inconsistencies in battle visuals. While the game captivates with its vibrant style, it still has room for refinement, solidifying its status as a notable indie title in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Cassette Beasts have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's unique aesthetic and imaginative character designs. Reviewers such as Nintendo Life and God is a Geek praised the superb monster designs and the variety of creatures available for collection, with God is a Geek noting the impressive visuals of the 120 beasts that players can fuse. Critics like COGconnected and Shacknews emphasized the game's successful blend of 2D and 3D elements, with Shacknews specifically mentioning the vibrant lighting and colors that enhance the overall experience. The retro-inspired art style, described by Gaming Age as reminiscent of the 80s, and the fluid animations highlighted by Hardcore Gamer contribute to a nostalgic yet fresh visual appeal that resonates well with players. However, not all feedback was entirely positive, as some critics pointed out shortcomings in specific areas of the visual design. Hey Poor Player mentioned that while the monster designs are unique, the environments lack detail, suggesting that the game doesn't fully capitalize on its potential in world-building. RPGamer noted inconsistencies in visual styles during battles against archangels, which detracted from the overall cohesion of the graphics. Additionally, TheGamer expressed disappointment with the fusion designs, suggesting that some may appear AI-generated and lack the charm found in the individual monster designs. These critiques indicate that while the game excels in certain aspects, there are areas that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Cassette Beasts successfully combines retro and modern aesthetics to create a visually appealing experience, though it is not without its flaws. The vibrant colors and imaginative character designs have been widely praised, with many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Siliconera, highlighting the whimsical nature of the game world. However, issues such as environmental detail and inconsistencies in visual execution have been noted by some, indicating that while the game is visually captivating, it may still have room for improvement. The blend of styles and the charm of the monster designs seem to be the standout features that most critics agree upon, making Cassette Beasts a noteworthy title in the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Cassette Beasts for its standout soundtrack, which enhances gameplay with catchy tunes and immersive themes. The unique concept of collecting old-school tapes elevates the musical experience, making battles climactic and exploration enjoyable. However, some note jarring transitions and a lack of diversity in monster-themed tracks as minor flaws. Overall, the sound design is a major highlight, significantly contributing to the game's atmosphere despite some room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Cassette Beasts have garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, who highlight the game's standout soundtrack and its integral role in the overall experience. Gaming Age emphasizes the unique concept of collecting old-school tapes, which is a central theme that enhances the musical elements of the game. Nintendo Life and Hardcore Gamer both commend the climactic feel of major battles, with the latter noting the addictive nature of the soundtrack that ramps up during intense moments. Critics like God is a Geek and RPGamer celebrate the variety within the music, pointing out the engaging battle themes and peaceful tracks that create a well-rounded auditory experience. The inclusion of vocal tracks, as mentioned by PCMag and Siliconera, adds depth and character to the music, making it memorable and enjoyable. Despite the overwhelming positivity, some critics have pointed out a few shortcomings in the sound design. COGconnected notes that while the music is excellent, certain transitions can feel jarring, potentially disrupting the flow of the gameplay. TheSixthAxis raises a concern regarding the lack of diversity in the soundtrack based on different monster types, which could have added more variety and depth to the auditory experience. While most critics found the music to be catchy and engaging, these criticisms suggest that there are areas where the sound design could have been further refined. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Cassette Beasts are largely successful and contribute positively to the game's atmosphere and gameplay. The majority of reviewers, including GGRecon and Shacknews, appreciate the heartfelt and entertaining nature of the soundtrack, underscoring its ability to enhance both exploration and battle sequences. With a strong emphasis on catchy tunes and lyrical themes, the game’s music is described as both evocative and immersive, leaving a lasting impression on players. Despite some noted shortcomings, the general sentiment is that Cassette Beasts excels in its sound design, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall gaming experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Cassette Beasts performs poorly on Nintendo Switch, with severe frame rate issues and crashes reported by multiple critics. In contrast, the PC version offers a more stable experience, though minor quality-of-life problems persist. Players on Switch should hold off until patches are released, while PC users can enjoy a generally better gameplay experience despite some minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

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

The technical performance of Cassette Beasts varies significantly across platforms, with the Nintendo Switch version facing considerable criticism. However, it is worth noting that some reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and The Games Machine, reported no technical issues or bugs when playing on PC. This suggests that the PC version may offer a more stable experience, with some critics acknowledging minor quality-of-life issues related to movement and creature management, as highlighted by Multiplayer.it and Noisy Pixel. Overall, while the PC version seems to have its share of minor inconveniences, it does not suffer from the significant performance issues that plague the Switch version. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version of Cassette Beasts has drawn considerable ire from critics. Gamereactor UK and Nintendo Life both reported poor performance characterized by choppy frame rates, stuttering, and frequent freezing. PCMag echoed these sentiments, noting technical issues that included hitches, stuttering, and even a hard crash. These performance problems are particularly concerning, especially since the developers are reportedly working on a patch to address these issues, as mentioned by Nintendo Life. This indicates that the game may not be in an optimal state for players on the Switch at launch. The overall consensus among critics suggests a stark divide in performance based on the platform. The Nintendo Switch version is widely regarded as problematic, with multiple reviewers pointing out significant technical issues that hinder gameplay. In contrast, the PC version appears to be more stable, with several critics, including The Games Machine, reporting no major bugs or crashes. However, even on PC, some minor issues were noted, indicating that while the experience is generally better, it is not without its flaws. Ultimately, players on the Switch may want to wait for patches before diving into Cassette Beasts, while those on PC may find a more enjoyable experience, albeit with some minor inconveniences.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Cassette Beasts scores high on replay value, with critics praising its rich side quests, relationship-building, and extensive post-game content that can stretch playtime to over 35 hours. Diverse game modes like Nuzlocke and speedrun options add to its appeal. While some find the content overwhelming or aimless, these concerns are minor. Overall, it's a must-play for RPG fans, promising deep, engaging experiences that keep players coming back for more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Cassette Beasts among critics is overwhelmingly positive. Many reviewers highlight the game's diverse offerings that contribute to its replayability. For instance, GGRecon emphasizes the inclusion of side quests, relationship-building, and monster collection, all of which enhance the game's longevity. Similarly, Noisy Pixel points out that a standard playthrough lasts around 15 hours, but players can extend their experience by an additional 20-30 hours through exploration and side quests. RPG Fan further supports this sentiment by noting the extensive post-game content, which can potentially quadruple playtime for those who aim to complete every quest and collect every Tape. The presence of alternative game modes, such as Nuzlocke and speedrun options, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it and TheGamer, adds another layer of replayability that caters to different player preferences. While the majority of critics praise the replay value, there are some subtle concerns that may affect individual experiences. Some critics, such as Hey Poor Player, mention that while the lengthy playthrough and post-game content are commendable, the sheer amount of content may feel overwhelming for some players. Additionally, although RPGamer appreciates the broad open-world setting, there is an implication that the vastness might lead to a sense of aimlessness for those who prefer more structured gameplay. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the overall positive feedback. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Cassette Beasts offers a robust replay value that is likely to satisfy fans of the genre. The game's combination of side quests, relationship-building, alternative modes, and extensive post-game content creates a rich tapestry of experiences that encourages players to return. Critics like RPG Fan and TheGamer highlight the various features that enhance replayability, while GGRecon and Noisy Pixel affirm the game's potential for extended playtime. Overall, Cassette Beasts stands out as a title that not only entertains but also invites players to explore its depths repeatedly, making it a worthwhile investment for RPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Cassette Beasts is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique take on the monster-collecting genre. Reviewers like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer lauded the game as one of the best in its category, highlighting its engaging combat, charming monster designs, and enjoyable exploration. Critics from PCMag and Nintendo Life echoed similar sentiments, noting that Cassette Beasts offers a deeper and more mature experience compared to traditional Pokémon games. The game’s visuals, world-building, and soundtrack have also received commendations, with COGconnected describing it as a “fantastic Pokémon alternative” and Noisy Pixel emphasizing its charm and packed content. Overall, the game is seen as a refreshing addition to the genre, with unique twists that help it carve out its own identity. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch version, were highlighted by Gamereactor UK and Nintendo Life, which could hinder gameplay enjoyment. Additionally, some reviewers, such as RPGamer and TheSixthAxis, mentioned pacing issues in battles and occasional bugs or crashes that prevent it from achieving a perfect score. The complexity of the battle mechanics was also a point of contention, with some critics feeling that the game could benefit from better tutorials and explanations, as noted by Gamereactor UK. While these negatives are significant, they do not overshadow the overall enjoyment many players experience. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Cassette Beasts is a highly enjoyable and innovative title that stands out in the monster-collecting genre. While there are some performance issues and gameplay complexities that need addressing, the majority of reviewers, including those from Shacknews and Gaming Age, agree that the game successfully builds upon the Pokémon formula and offers a fresh, engaging experience. The overall verdict is that Cassette Beasts is a must-play for fans of the genre, with many considering it one of the best indie titles of the year.

TL;DR

TL;DR: Cassette Beasts is a standout in the monster-collecting genre, praised for its engaging combat, charming designs, and rich world-building, often compared favorably to Pokémon. While it faces criticism for performance issues on the Switch, pacing problems, and complex mechanics, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive. Critics deem it a must-play indie title, marking a refreshing evolution in the genre despite some drawbacks.

MONSTER

Reviews

44 reviews found

100

God is a Geek

Apr 26, 2023