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MONSTER

Catherine: Full Body

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Catherine: Full Body
Item: Catherine: Full Body
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Comedy, Simulation, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableSep 3, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

DeveloperAtlus

Overview

Catherine: Full Body is an enhanced remaster of the adult-oriented puzzle-platformer Catherine. Full Body features a new love interest, online multiplayer, new puzzle mechanics, harder difficulties, new story segments, and new endings.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Catherine: Full Body are varied, with both positive and negative aspects being highlighted. Several critics, such as Destructoid and Push Square, praise the story for being real, poignant, and relatable, exploring themes of love, commitment, and infidelity. They appreciate the subtlety and symbolism used to convey messages about responsibility and adherence to the past. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded commends the game for handling sex themes with maturity and nuance, exploring the challenges faced by the characters in their relationships. The addition of Rin as a new companion is also praised by GameSpace, as it adds complexity to the love triangle and offers new narrative possibilities. However, there are also negative opinions about the story. CGMagazine criticizes the story for its dated views on relationships and intimacy, finding it tiresome and cynical. They mention that only two routes acknowledge these outdated views, while Rin's route offers more complex views on sexuality and attraction. Game Revolution also highlights certain portrayals of certain groups of people as archaic, which dampens the overall experience. Additionally, GameSpot criticizes some choices for Rin's story, stating that they don't follow through. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the Story of Catherine: Full Body offers a compelling narrative with mature themes and interesting insights into the protagonist's life and evolving relationships. The addition of new characters, such as Rin, adds complexity and variety to the story. The game's exploration of love, commitment, and infidelity resonates with many critics, who appreciate the nuanced and relatable portrayal of these themes. However, there are criticisms regarding certain outdated views and portrayals, as well as some narrative missteps. Despite these flaws, the majority of reviewers find the story engaging, well-woven, and immersive, keeping players engaged until the end.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the Story of Catherine: Full Body. Some praise its real, poignant exploration of love, commitment, and infidelity, while others criticize its dated views on relationships and certain portrayals. The addition of Rin as a new character adds complexity, but there are concerns about narrative missteps. Overall, reviewers find the narrative compelling and immersive, despite some flaws.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

27%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of Catherine: Full Body, with many highlighting its challenging and rewarding puzzle mechanics. App Trigger commends the game for its progressive difficulty, stating that the puzzles ramp up beautifully as the player progresses. CGMagazine describes the gameplay as robust and challenging, with mechanics such as climbing walls of blocks and Rin's piano playing adding depth to the experience. Destructoid and Digitally Downloaded both appreciate the multiple ways to solve each tower and the delightfully devilish puzzles. DualShockers mentions the engaging and challenging puzzle mechanics, with a remixed mode adding more variety. GameGrin finds the puzzles hypnotic and compelling, with a rhythm of balancing blocks to create stairways. GameSpace notes that the puzzles start off easy but become more challenging as the game progresses. However, there are a few criticisms regarding the gameplay of Catherine: Full Body. DualShockers mentions that the decision making in the game, which affects the story and the Karma Meter, doesn't feel super meaningful. GameGrin finds the Remix mode frustrating when stuck, and Game Rant mentions that skipping puzzles takes away the challenge but allows players to enjoy the story. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Catherine: Full Body is very good. The challenging and rewarding puzzle-solving mechanics, combined with the various difficulty options and additional modes, make for an engaging and enjoyable experience. TheSixthAxis praises the addition of linked blocks and remixed puzzle levels, adding freshness to the challenges. COGconnected finds the puzzles excellent and the gameplay fun. The critics' positive opinions on the gameplay highlight its depth, variety, and the overall satisfaction it brings to players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about Catherine: Full Body's gameplay, praising its challenging puzzles and rewarding mechanics. Despite some minor criticisms, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers lauding the game's depth, variety, and overall satisfaction for players.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the graphics and visual design of Catherine: Full Body, the majority of critics had positive opinions. The game was praised for its stylish and unique aesthetic, with several critics mentioning the anime art style and cel-shaded visuals. Critics such as DualShockers and Pure Nintendo commended the game's visually stylish presentation, with intense undertones and beautiful animated cutscenes. The character designs were also highly praised, with GameGrin and Push Square highlighting the top-notch designs and enviable use of color. Additionally, the remastered version of the game was noted to have sharper graphics and improved backgrounds, as mentioned by Destructoid and USgamer. The production values were also praised, with GameGrin mentioning the high production values for a visual novel. However, there were a few negative opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Catherine: Full Body. Some critics, such as GameSpew and Siliconera, mentioned that the Switch version of the game suffered from occasional visual issues, lower resolution, and a loss of definition in certain areas, particularly during story segments and boss battles. GameSpew specifically noted that the docked mode had low resolution and occasional visual problems. While these negative aspects were mentioned, they did not significantly impact the overall experience of the game, as noted by Siliconera. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Catherine: Full Body has fantastic presentation and art direction. The game's unique and stylish aesthetic, including the anime art style and cel-shaded visuals, received high praise from multiple critics. The character designs, use of color, and intense undertones were also highlighted as positive aspects of the game's visual design. The remastered version of the game was noted to have improved graphics and backgrounds, further enhancing the overall experience. While there were some minor issues mentioned, such as occasional visual problems and lower resolution on the Switch version, these did not significantly detract from the overall positive reception of the game's graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics praised Catherine: Full Body for its stylish anime art style, cel-shaded visuals, and top-notch character designs. The game's intense undertones and beautiful animated cutscenes were highlighted, along with improved graphics in the remastered version. Despite some minor visual issues on the Switch, overall consensus is that the game boasts fantastic presentation and art direction.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

81%

Mixed (50-79)

19%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the sound design and music of Catherine: Full Body, considering it a standout aspect of the game. They commended the game for its laidback, jazzy soundtrack that created a unique atmosphere and contrasted well with the religious iconography (App Trigger). The game was also applauded for its impressive soundtrack, featuring tunes that rival the iconic music of the Persona series (DualShockers). Critics highlighted the inclusion of a jukebox with a variety of songs from both the main game and Persona series, with tracks like "Beneath The Mask" from Persona 5 standing out (DualShockers). The game's eclectic soundtrack, ranging from smooth lounge music to remixed classical tracks, was also praised for helping to build the atmosphere at key points (COGconnected). The voice acting was another positive aspect, with critics mentioning the excellent performances and fitting voices throughout the game (GameSpew, God is a Geek). While the majority of the critics had positive opinions about the sound design and music, there were a few minor criticisms. Some critics mentioned that the audio balancing could be inconsistent, which affected the overall experience (GameSpew). Additionally, one critic from Metro GameCentral did not mention the music at all, which could indicate that it did not leave a significant impression. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Catherine: Full Body is very good. The majority of the critics praised the game for its sublime soundtrack, superb music, and impressive voice acting (Push Square, USgamer, Noisy Pixel). They appreciated the inclusion of a jukebox with a variety of songs, including remixes and tracks from other Atlus games like Persona (IGN, PlayStation Universe). The sound design and music were seen as standout aspects of the game, contributing to its unique atmosphere and enhancing the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about Catherine: Full Body's stellar sound design and music, praising its jazzy tunes, impressive soundtrack rivaling Persona series, and eclectic mix of songs. Voice acting also shines. Some minor criticisms on audio balancing. Overall, consensus is the game's music and sound design are top-notch, enhancing the unique atmosphere and overall experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Catherine: Full Body are generally positive. Multiple critics, such as USgamer and God is a Geek, praise the voice acting, specifically highlighting notable performances from Troy Baker and Laura Bailey. Game Rant also commends the English voice acting by Michelle Ruff, Troy Baker, and Laura Bailey, further emphasizing its excellence. GameSpew and Noisy Pixel both express satisfaction with both the English and Japanese voice acting, indicating that the quality is consistent across both options. The inclusion of additional voice tracks, as mentioned by Noisy Pixel, is seen as a positive aspect that enhances the overall experience. However, there are a few critics who offer more mixed opinions. Metro GameCentral describes the voiceovers as mediocre without providing further details, suggesting that some voice acting performances may not meet the same standard as others. Game Revolution mentions that the additional Japanese voices for Catherine in the Switch version are not particularly exciting, implying that these new additions may not have added much value to the overall voice acting experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Catherine: Full Body is well done, with notable performances from talented actors like Troy Baker and Laura Bailey. The positive comments from USgamer, Game Rant, GameSpew, God is a Geek, Noisy Pixel, and Multiplayer.it support this sentiment. While there are a few mixed opinions, particularly from Metro GameCentral and Game Revolution, the majority of critics agree that the voice acting in the game is solid and enhances the overall experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise the voice acting in Catherine: Full Body, highlighting standout performances by Troy Baker and Laura Bailey. Most reviewers commend the English and Japanese voice acting, with some mixed opinions suggesting that not all performances meet the same standard. Overall, the voice acting is considered well done and enhances the game experience, according to consensus among critics.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the technical performance of Catherine: Full Body on the Nintendo Switch, the majority of critics praised its smooth and stable performance. COGconnected, Game Revolution, GameSpew, Gaming Age, God is a Geek, Nintendo Enthusiast, Noisy Pixel, Siliconera, and The Games Machine all noted positive experiences with the game on the Switch. They mentioned factors such as swift load times, consistent frame rates, and minimal technical issues. The game ran excellently in both handheld and docked modes, providing a seamless experience for players. This positive feedback from multiple critics highlights the overall strong technical performance of Catherine: Full Body on the Nintendo Switch. While the general consensus among critics was positive, there were a few minor negatives mentioned regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Multiplayer.it pointed out that the game may struggle with heat dissipation, which could potentially impact the performance. Siliconera also mentioned that the Switch version took a visual hit during story scenes. However, these issues were not significant enough to overshadow the overall positive feedback from the critics. Overall, the critics' opinions indicate that the technical performance of Catherine: Full Body on the Nintendo Switch was very good. The game ran smoothly, with stable framerates, minimal load times, and no notable graphical issues or frame rate drops. This consensus among the critics highlights the successful port of the game to the Switch platform, providing players with an enjoyable and technically sound experience. The positive feedback from multiple critics reinforces the notion that the technical performance of Catherine: Full Body on the Nintendo Switch is commendable.

TL;DR

technical performance

Catherine: Full Body on Nintendo Switch received high praise for its smooth performance, fast load times, and stable frame rates from multiple critics. While some minor issues like heat dissipation and visual downgrades were noted, they did not overshadow the overall positive consensus. Critics agree that the game offers a seamless experience in both handheld and docked modes, making it a successful port to the Switch platform.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Catherine: Full Body are largely positive. Many critics highlight the multiple endings as a key factor in the game's replayability. App Trigger, DualShockers, GameGrin, GameSpace, IGN, PlayStation Universe, Push Square, Stevivor, USgamer, Video Chums, Wccftech, ZTGD, COGconnected, Game Rant, GameSpew, Gaming Age, God is a Geek, Multiplayer.it, Nintendo Enthusiast, Noisy Pixel, Pure Nintendo, and Screen Rant all mention the presence of multiple endings as a significant aspect of the game's replay value. This variety in endings allows players to explore different storylines and make different choices, encouraging multiple playthroughs. Additionally, several critics such as Destructoid, GameGrin, GameSpace, IGN, Push Square, Stevivor, TheSixthAxis, USgamer, Video Chums, Wccftech, and COGconnected mention the inclusion of additional content, such as new stages, challenges, and modes, which further enhance the replay value of the game. While the majority of critics praise the replay value of Catherine: Full Body, there are some mentions of potential weaknesses. Push Square notes that some endings and the plot near the finale may be weaker, which could impact the motivation to replay the game. However, this is a minor concern compared to the overall positive reception of the game's replayability. Additionally, Gaming Age mentions that Catherine: Full Body is an improvement over the original game, suggesting that revisiting the game after a long period may be less appealing for those who have already experienced it. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Catherine: Full Body offers significant replay value. The presence of multiple endings, additional content, and various gameplay modes contribute to the game's replayability. Critics such as App Trigger, GameGrin, GameSpace, IGN, Push Square, Stevivor, TheSixthAxis, USgamer, Video Chums, Wccftech, and COGconnected highlight the various features and modes that provide players with hours of replayability. The positive sentiments expressed by the critics indicate that Catherine: Full Body is a game that can be enjoyed and revisited multiple times, making it a worthwhile investment for fans of the franchise or those seeking a game with high replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about Catherine: Full Body's replay value, praising its multiple endings and additional content that encourage multiple playthroughs. Despite minor criticisms about weaker endings and plot points, the game is hailed for its enhanced replayability compared to the original. Overall, critics agree that Catherine: Full Body offers hours of enjoyment and is a must-play for fans looking for a game with significant replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Catherine: Full Body, it is evident that the game has received a mix of positive and negative feedback. Many critics praised the game for its unique and engaging gameplay, compelling story, and well-developed characters. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and TheSixthAxis highlighted the game's mature handling of sex themes and its incorporation of gameplay elements into the narrative, making it a standout experience for those who appreciate games as an artistic medium. The addition of new content, puzzles, and endings in the Full Body version was also commended by critics like Destructoid and USgamer, who recommended it for both newcomers and returning players. However, there were also notable criticisms raised by some reviewers. CGMagazine criticized the game for its dated views on love and preconceived roles, suggesting that it feels like a relic of its time. Metro GameCentral mentioned that the attempts to introduce a new character fell flat and that the puzzle sections had a tenuous connection to the rest of the game. IGN questioned the price tag of the re-release, stating that it may not be justified for returning customers. Game Revolution and Nintendo Enthusiast pointed out problematic portrayals of certain groups of people in the game, highlighting the need for improvement in this aspect. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Catherine: Full Body is a unique and enjoyable experience that offers a mix of engaging gameplay and a compelling story. The game's puzzles and narrative were praised by multiple reviewers, with many recommending it as a must-play for fans of the original game or those interested in challenging puzzle games. The addition of new content and improvements in graphics and gameplay were also seen as positive aspects. However, there were concerns raised about the game's dated views on love, problematic portrayals, and the price tag for returning players. Despite these criticisms, Catherine: Full Body was generally well-received and considered a worthwhile experience by the majority of critics.

TL;DR

Catherine: Full Body receives mixed reviews from critics, praised for its unique gameplay and engaging story, but criticized for dated views on love and portrayal of certain groups. Recommended for fans of the original game, but concerns raised about the price tag for returning players. Overall, a compelling experience with some room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

137 reviews found

Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Jul 3, 2020

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

Catherine: Full Body on Switch is a fantastic port that retains the thrill and tone of the original game, with added voice tracks and DLC, making it an excellent choice for both new and returning players.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jul 8, 2020

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

Catherine: Full Body is an overall improvement to the original game, and worth checking out if you’re like me and haven’t revisited the game in nearly a decade.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 4

Sep 3, 2019

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

Catherine: Full Body is a rare game that handles sex themes with maturity and nuance, incorporating gameplay elements into the narrative. It is highly recommended for those who care about games as an artistic medium.

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God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Jul 3, 2020

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

Catherine: Full Body on Nintendo Switch is an excellent game filled with tons of variety in the puzzles, and a story that keeps you gripped until the end.

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Screen Rant

Nintendo Switch

Jul 3, 2020

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

Catherine: Full Body on the Nintendo Switch is a well-polished port that retains all the great content of the original game, making it a must-have title for those who haven't experienced it before.

Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Jul 3, 2020

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

Catherine: Full Body is a worthy addition to the original game, with new content that adds to the experience and makes it feel fresh. However, it doesn't fully address the issues with its portrayal of transgender people from the original.

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 4

Aug 30, 2019

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

Catherine: Full Body is a cult classic that has been revisited with extra content. The game's story, gameplay improvements, and addition of competitive modes make it a worthwhile experience.

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DualShockers

PlayStation 4

Aug 30, 2019

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

Catherine: Full Body is a unique and riveting game that holds up even after almost nine years. It is recommended for both newcomers and returning players.

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IGN

PlayStation 4

Sep 4, 2019

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

Catherine: Full Body is a tempting re-release with added extras, engrossing story, and deep puzzle gameplay, but the price tag may not be justified for returning customers.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 4

Sep 11, 2019

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

Catherine: Full Body is a great game with minimal or no negatives. Its gender depictions might not have aged well, but it offers a unique and rich experience. Can be played as an anime visual novel, a nightmarish puzzle, or a bizarre fighting game.

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