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MONSTER

Death's Door

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Death's Door
Item: Death's Door
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableJul 20, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperAcid Nerve

Overview

Reaping souls of the dead and punching a clock might get monotonous but it's honest work for a Crow. The job gets lively when your assigned soul is stolen and you must track down a desperate thief to a realm untouched by death - where creatures grow far past their expiry and overflow with greed and power.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Death's Door impresses with its unique premise of a crow reaper collecting souls, praised for its engaging narrative and strong character relationships. Critics highlight the effective mix of dark humor and serious themes, though some note predictability and lack of depth in character motivations. Despite minor flaws, the story's exploration of mortality and duty is captivating, making it a standout in the indie gaming scene. Overall, it’s a well-crafted narrative that enhances the game’s appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Death's Door has garnered significant praise from critics, who highlight its intriguing premise centered around a crow acting as a reaper tasked with collecting souls. Many reviewers, such as Meristation and SomosXbox, appreciate the engaging narrative and the depth of character relationships that enhance the overall experience. The game’s unique blend of dark humor and somber themes has been well-received, with critics like Eurogamer Italy and PC Gamer noting the effective balance between lighthearted moments and serious undertones. Additionally, the world-building and character development have been described as compelling, with memorable characters and witty dialogue, as emphasized by Xbox Achievements and Digital Trends. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics point out weaknesses in the story's execution. A few reviews, including those from Riot Pixels and GamingTrend, mention that the narrative can feel predictable or simplistic, with a repetitive structure that may detract from the experience. Critics like GameStar and Gaming Age also note that while the story has engaging elements, it lacks depth in character motivations and background lore. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel that the narrative, while enjoyable, doesn't always deliver on its potential for complexity and richness. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Death's Door presents a captivating story that effectively explores themes of mortality, duty, and the afterlife, despite some criticisms regarding predictability and depth. Many reviewers, including Impulsegamer and GameSpot, find the narrative engaging and well-crafted, with a charming blend of humor and existential reflection. The majority of critics agree that the story is a strong aspect of the game, contributing significantly to its appeal and making it a noteworthy title in the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Death's Door impresses with its engaging mix of combat, exploration, and puzzles, drawing praise for its accessibility and high-stakes boss battles reminiscent of classic titles like The Legend of Zelda. Critics applaud the variety of abilities that enhance combat depth and the rewarding exploration that encourages revisiting areas. However, some note the combat can feel simplistic and repetitive over time, with frustrating difficulty spikes that may challenge some players. Overall, it’s a well-crafted action-adventure game that balances challenge and accessibility, making it a hit among genre fans despite some minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Death's Door has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its engaging blend of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving. Many reviewers, such as those from Press Start Australia and IGN, highlight the accessibility of the gameplay while still maintaining high-stakes boss battles that demand player skill. The game is often compared to classic titles like The Legend of Zelda, with Eurogamer Italy noting its focus on exploration and interconnected worlds. Critics appreciate the variety of abilities and weapons available, as mentioned by GameSpot, which adds depth to the combat mechanics. The overall design encourages players to revisit areas for upgrades, contributing to a rewarding experience, as pointed out by Windows Central. However, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks in the gameplay. A recurring theme is the simplicity of the combat system, with reviewers like Video Chums and Eurogamer Italy noting that while the mechanics are functional, they can feel basic and lack innovation over time. The combat can also become repetitive, as highlighted by New Game Network and Jeuxvideo.com, where the predictable patterns of enemies and bosses may detract from the overall excitement. Additionally, TierraGamer mentions frustrating difficulty spikes that can disrupt the flow of gameplay, suggesting that while the game is accessible, it may not cater to all player skill levels. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Death's Door offers a strong gameplay experience that effectively combines elements from various genres, particularly action-adventure and RPG mechanics. The majority of reviews reflect a sentiment of enjoyment, with many praising the game for its engaging combat, clever level design, and rewarding exploration. Critics like GamingTrend and Hey Poor Player emphasize the game's ability to balance challenge with accessibility, making it appealing to a broad audience. Despite some criticisms regarding combat simplicity and repetitiveness, the positive aspects of Death's Door shine through, solidifying its reputation as a well-crafted title that resonates with fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Death's Door dazzles with its vibrant art style and intricate designs, creating an immersive experience praised by critics for its enchanting visuals and atmospheric environments. However, some note accessibility issues for colorblind players and a lack of innovation, suggesting the visuals may feel familiar. Overall, the game's stunning graphics enhance gameplay and narrative, earning it widespread acclaim akin to beloved animated classics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Death's Door have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the game's unique aesthetic and charming art style. Reviewers such as Gfinity and Everyeye.it praise the game's vibrant color palettes and intricate character designs, noting that the visuals create an enchanting experience that enhances exploration and immersion. Critics like PC Games and Gameblog.fr emphasize the atmospheric quality of the environments, which range from whimsical to melancholic, contributing to a rich narrative backdrop. The game's isometric perspective is frequently mentioned, with reviewers like Digitally Downloaded and GamePro Germany noting how it enhances the overall aesthetic and allows for detailed world-building. This attention to visual detail is further supported by the game's ability to maintain a cohesive style that resonates with players, as seen in the opinions of PC Gamer and Pure Nintendo. However, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual design of Death's Door. Malditos Nerds noted that while the vibrant art style is appealing, it may present challenges for colorblind players, indicating that accessibility could be improved. Attack of the Fanboy mentioned issues with color blending in some areas, which can hinder navigation and detract from the overall experience. Additionally, while critics like Multiplayer.it acknowledged the game's artistic style, they also suggested that it may not be particularly unique, which could lead to a sense of familiarity for some players. This sentiment is echoed by a few others who feel that while the visuals are charming, they may not push the boundaries of innovation in game design. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Death's Door boasts a visually impressive and artistically rich design that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers express enthusiasm for the game's distinctive style, with many likening its charm to that of beloved animated works, such as those from Studio Ghibli. Critics like NME and SpazioGames highlight the game's ability to create a captivating atmosphere through its thoughtful visual choices, reinforcing the idea that the graphics are not only aesthetically pleasing but also integral to the game's narrative. Despite some minor criticisms regarding accessibility and originality, the overwhelming sentiment is that Death's Door successfully delivers a visually stunning experience that resonates with players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Death's Door features an acclaimed soundtrack that enhances gameplay with catchy melodies and atmospheric compositions. Critics praise its emotional depth and dynamic soundscapes, though some note a few tracks can be overly calming, risking player disengagement. Overall, the sound design is hailed as a standout feature that elevates the gaming experience and storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Death's Door have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the game's catchy and well-composed soundtrack, which effectively complements the different environments and gameplay scenarios. For instance, Pure Nintendo highlighted the catchy music that enhances the appeal of each level and boss fight, while IGN noted the slow, subdued music paired with faint whispers that enrich the atmosphere. Critics like WellPlayed and Games.cz emphasized how the music enhances the overall experience, with calming tracks that intensify during combat, creating a dynamic and immersive environment. The orchestral score, described as "epic" and "engaging" by XboxAddict and Press Start Australia, further solidifies the game's emotional depth, making it a standout feature. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. Attack of the Fanboy mentioned that while the soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience, certain tracks can be overly calming, potentially leading to moments of disengagement. This sentiment is echoed by a few others who noted that while the music is generally well-crafted, it occasionally risks being too subtle or tranquil during critical gameplay moments, which could detract from the overall engagement. However, these critiques are relatively rare compared to the overall praise the game has received. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Death's Door are exceptional and significantly enhance the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameSpot and Xbox Tavern, highlighted the soundtrack's ability to adapt to various scenarios, adding emotional weight and depth to the gameplay. The combination of melancholic melodies, ambient sounds, and dynamic compositions creates a rich auditory landscape that resonates with players. Overall, Death's Door stands out as a prime example of how effective sound design and music can elevate a video game, making it an integral part of its storytelling and atmosphere.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Death's Door charms with expressive NPC animations and witty text boxes, compensating for its lack of traditional voice acting. Critics agree the absence is notable but doesn't hurt the game's overall appeal or storytelling. While some players may miss voiceovers for deeper emotional engagement, the unique approach maintains immersion and enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews regarding the voice acting in Death's Door present a largely positive sentiment towards the game's unique approach to character expression. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy appreciate the charm that NPCs exhibit through their grunts and animations, suggesting that the absence of traditional voice acting does not detract from the game's personality. Similarly, GamePro Germany highlights how the game effectively uses text boxes to convey its humorous narrative, indicating that the storytelling remains engaging despite the lack of voice performances. This sentiment is echoed by Xbox Achievements, who notes that the text-based dialogue successfully communicates the story, allowing players to immerse themselves in the game's world. However, the absence of voice acting is a recurring point of critique among reviewers. Critics such as SpazioGames and Finger Guns acknowledge that while the lack of voice acting is a notable omission, it does not significantly impact the overall experience. Nonetheless, there is a consensus that this absence could be perceived as a drawback, as some players might prefer a fully voiced experience to enhance character depth and emotional engagement. Generación Xbox specifically mentions the lack of voice acting while also noting that the game is fully translated into Spanish, which highlights the developers' effort to cater to a broader audience, yet still raises questions about the decision to forego voice acting altogether. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Death's Door does not feature traditional voice acting, the game's charm remains intact through its creative use of animations, sound effects, and text boxes. Reviewers like SomosXbox and Video Chums acknowledge the absence but emphasize that it does not detract from the game's appeal or enjoyment. The critics seem to agree that the game successfully conveys its narrative and engages players, despite the lack of voiced dialogue, suggesting that the developers have crafted an experience that resonates well without relying on voice acting.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Death's Door impresses with solid technical performance across platforms, earning praise for its polished gameplay and smooth visuals on PC and Xbox Series X. While minor issues like combat latency and checkpoint frustrations exist, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The Nintendo Switch version, though facing some performance hiccups, still offers a commendable experience. In short, Death's Door is a well-optimized title that delivers a satisfying gaming experience despite some minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Death's Door has garnered a largely positive reception across different gaming platforms. For PC, many critics, including Malditos Nerds and Multiplayer.it, praised the game for its polished experience and smooth performance, with no significant issues reported. Digital Chumps also noted the game’s polished nature, while New Game Network highlighted its overall stability despite minor issues. On Xbox Series X, reviewers like GamePro Germany and IGN France echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the game’s stable frame rate and impressive visuals. Critics such as Generación Xbox and Xbox Achievements reported smooth gameplay with no technical flaws, further reinforcing the game's technical execution on this platform. The Nintendo Switch version, while slightly less praised, still received favorable comments from Hey Poor Player, who noted a smooth experience without major concerns. However, several negative aspects were noted across the platforms. On PC, issues such as latency in combat, save problems, and occasional frame drops during boss fights were highlighted by critics like Gameblog.fr and PC Games, indicating areas that require improvement. Additionally, TierraGamer pointed out bugs that could disrupt gameplay, particularly during combat. For Xbox Series X, while most reviews were positive, AusGamers mentioned frustrations with checkpoints and the absence of a map. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Vooks and NintendoWorldReport pointed out performance hiccups, including slowdowns during intense combat and lengthy loading screens, which could detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Death's Door delivers a solid technical performance, with most reviewers noting smooth gameplay and minimal significant issues. While there are some frustrations, particularly with navigation and minor technical glitches, the game is generally well-optimized and polished, especially on PC and Xbox Series X. Critics like IGN Italia and GameSpot did not report any major technical flaws, suggesting that the developers have successfully created a stable experience overall. The Nintendo Switch version, while facing some performance challenges, still managed to provide an enjoyable experience, indicating that Death's Door is a commendable title across various platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Death's Door delivers mixed reviews on replay value: praised for its exploration, secrets, and post-game content that beckon players back, yet criticized for its short playtime (8-12 hours) and lack of replay incentives. While some enjoy uncovering hidden treasures, others find the simplicity and absence of a map hinder replay potential. Ultimately, it's a satisfying single-player experience for explorers but may fall flat for those seeking deeper, more challenging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Death's Door is mixed, with several critics highlighting its positive aspects. Many reviewers appreciate the game's exploration elements, secret areas, and collectibles that encourage players to revisit the game after completing the main story. For instance, GameSpot and IGN noted that the game offers optional secrets and post-game content, which can entice completionists and those who enjoy thorough exploration. Critics like KeenGamer and Hey Poor Player also emphasized the presence of hidden areas and upgrades that enhance the gameplay experience, suggesting that players may find joy in uncovering all the secrets the game has to offer. The engaging world and atmosphere, as mentioned by Gfinity, contribute to a satisfying experience that some players may wish to relive. However, several critics raised concerns about the game's replayability, pointing out its relatively short length and lack of substantial replay features. RPG Fan and Meristation highlighted that the game can be completed in around 8 to 12 hours, which may deter players from returning for additional playthroughs. The absence of a map, as noted by New Game Network and TierraGamer, can also make it frustrating for players trying to locate collectibles or revisit areas, potentially diminishing the desire to replay. Furthermore, some critics, such as PC Gamer and Digital Chumps, mentioned that while the game is enjoyable, its simplicity may not provide enough incentive for multiple playthroughs. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Death's Door offers a decent level of replayability primarily through exploration, collectibles, and post-game content, but this is tempered by concerns regarding its short length and lack of replay features. While some reviewers like Xbox Tavern and TrueGaming found enough engaging content to encourage revisits, others like PC Gamer and RPG Fan felt that the game lacks the depth needed for extensive replayability. Overall, players seeking a rich single-player experience with exploration and secrets may find value in revisiting the game, but those looking for a more challenging or expansive replay experience might be left wanting.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Death's Door is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and unique narrative. Reviewers like PC Gamer and GameSpot highlight the game's humor and solid mechanics, emphasizing its captivating story and beautiful graphics. Critics such as Everyeye.it and Malditos Nerds commend the game for its captivating storytelling and rewarding gameplay, while Nintendo Life describes it as a modern classic that successfully revitalizes familiar gameplay ideas. The game’s art style and sound design also receive accolades, with Windows Central noting its stunning visuals and music. Overall, Death's Door is celebrated for its ability to blend traditional action-adventure elements with a fresh, indie twist, making it a standout title in the genre. However, some critics point out notable drawbacks that may affect the overall experience. Several reviewers, including RPG Fan and PC Gamer, mention the game's lack of replayability and some backtracking issues that could detract from the enjoyment. Others, like Metro GameCentral, criticize the game for lacking original ideas and a comprehensive map, which could leave players feeling somewhat lost. Additionally, Video Chums notes that the game lacks challenge and can feel unsatisfying at times, while Jeuxvideo.com mentions a lack of depth in certain mechanics. These criticisms suggest that while the game is enjoyable, it may not fully satisfy players looking for a more complex or challenging experience. Despite these minor issues, the overall consensus among critics is that Death's Door is a highly recommended title, particularly for fans of action-adventure and indie games. With many reviewers, including Zelda enthusiasts like GamingBolt and Pure Xbox, praising its charm and gameplay, it is clear that the game resonates well with its audience. Critics such as AusGamers and Checkpoint Gaming even consider it one of the best indie titles of the year, solidifying its place in the gaming landscape. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game, suggesting that it is a must-play for those who enjoy engaging narratives and polished gameplay experiences.

TL;DR

Death's Door is a standout indie title celebrated for its engaging gameplay, charming visuals, and captivating narrative, drawing praise from critics like PC Gamer and GameSpot. While it successfully revitalizes familiar action-adventure concepts and boasts stunning art and sound design, some reviewers note issues with replayability, backtracking, and a lack of depth that could leave players wanting more. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus is highly positive, making it a must-play for fans of the genre and a contender for one of the year's best indie titles.

MONSTER

Reviews

179 reviews found

100

IGN France

Xbox Series X

Aug 5, 2021

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

Death's Door is hailed as a masterful game that successfully blends elements from classic titles while delivering a concise and enjoyable experience.

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100

Pure Xbox

Xbox One

Jul 20, 2021

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

Death's Door is a well-crafted game that combines various elements into its own unique experience, deserving attention and considered one of the best games of 2021

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100

Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Nov 30, 2021

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

Death's Door is a breath of fresh air, with an in-depth story, great controls, and appealing aesthetics. Highly recommended.

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100

Player 2

Jul 20, 2021

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

Death's Door is a unique and memorable game that combines dark themes with engaging gameplay. It is recommended for players looking for a challenging experience with a charming narrative.

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100

KeenGamer

Aug 23, 2021

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

Death's Door is praised as an unmissable gem with an engrossing story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a standout soundtrack. It offers a unique and memorable experience for players.

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100

Gaming Age

Xbox One

Jul 20, 2021

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

The reviewer highly recommends Death's Door, finding it hard to put down and looking forward to uncovering more secrets and puzzles.

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100

GamesHub

Dec 13, 2021

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

Death's Door is a thematically interesting game with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a captivating narrative. It is a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.

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100

Hey Poor Player

Jul 20, 2021

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

Death's Door is a captivating, beautiful, fun, challenging, and well-balanced game that is highly recommended for fans of Zelda games and those seeking a wonderful adventure experience.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Jul 29, 2021

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

Death's Door is praised for its fantastic combat, great characters, interesting story, and exceptional level design. The reviewer struggled to find anything they did not like about the game, making it a must-play and a top contender for game of the year.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Jul 25, 2021

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

Death's Door is a standout title of the year, blending quality gameplay, stunning visuals, and a captivating soundtrack into a memorable experience.