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MONSTER

Digimon Survive

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Digimon Survive
Item: Digimon Survive
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Simulation, RPG, Visual Novel, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJul 29, 2022

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

DeveloperHyde

Overview

This is a story of survival in a strange new world. Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Digimon Anime, Digimon Survive presents a brand-new adventure set in a mysterious world with characters designed by Uichi Ukumo, and music by the much-acclaimed Tomoki Miyoshi. Digimon Survive sees a brand-new group of teenagers, led by Takuma Momozuka, get lost on a school camping trip, finding them transported to a strange new world of monsters and danger. As they fight their way back home through an animated world of difficult decisions and deadly battles, players’ choices throughout the game will impact the evolution of their monster allies, and the final ending. Battles in the game are fought in 2D, in a more classic SRPG style.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive impresses with its compelling narrative and mature themes, blending visual novel and RPG elements to engage players deeply. Critics praise its strong storytelling, emotional weight, and innovative Karma System, though some note pacing issues and clichés as potential drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, the game is celebrated for reinventing the Digimon franchise with a fresh, gripping experience that resonates with both newcomers and veterans alike. Overall, it’s a standout entry that balances dark themes with nostalgia, delivering a powerful journey.

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 Digimon Survive has garnered considerable praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its compelling narrative and mature themes. Many reviewers, such as Cubed3 and God is a Geek, commend the game for its strong storytelling elements, engaging characters, and the emotional weight of the plot. Critics like Finger Guns and New Game Network appreciate the game's ability to weave a dark, horror-infused tale that draws inspiration from Japanese folklore, creating a rich atmosphere that resonates with players. The incorporation of a Karma System, which affects character evolution and outcomes based on player choices, has been positively noted by multiple critics, including Everyeye.it and But Why Tho?, emphasizing the depth and interactivity of the narrative. Overall, the story is seen as a successful blend of visual novel and RPG elements, providing a fresh and gripping experience that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, like RPG Site, express concerns about the story becoming cliché-ridden over time, suggesting that while it starts strong, it may lose momentum as it progresses. Others, such as PlayStation LifeStyle, mention pacing issues and some plot points dragging on longer than necessary, which can detract from the overall experience. GameSkinny also points out translation errors that impact the storytelling, indicating that technical issues may hinder the narrative's effectiveness. These criticisms suggest that while the story has a solid foundation, its execution may falter in certain areas, leading to a less cohesive experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Digimon Survive presents a compelling and mature narrative that successfully reinvents the franchise's storytelling approach. The majority of reviews highlight the emotional depth, character development, and the impactful choices that shape the player's journey, as noted by critics like PlayStation Universe and Digital Trends. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and narrative clichés, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game offers a unique and engaging experience that resonates with its audience. The blend of darker themes with the classic elements of the Digimon series creates a narrative that is both nostalgic and refreshing, making it a noteworthy entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive blends visual novel storytelling with tactical RPG gameplay but falls short in depth and challenge. Critics praise its engaging narrative and character interactions, yet many find the combat too simplistic and lacking strategic complexity. While it appeals to visual novel fans, those craving a robust tactical RPG experience may be disappointed by its underdeveloped mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Digimon Survive has received some commendations from various critics, particularly for its unique blend of visual novel elements and tactical RPG mechanics. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Cubed3 appreciate the engaging visuals and the narrative-driven approach, highlighting how the game successfully integrates character choices that impact the story and Digimon evolution paths. The character progression and the recruitment mechanics, as noted by Generación Xbox, offer players a chance to develop relationships with their Digimon, which adds a layer of depth to the overall experience. Additionally, the tactical combat system, while basic, is recognized by some reviewers like PlayStation LifeStyle as having solid foundations that can be enjoyable when approached with the right mindset. However, the consensus among critics is that the gameplay suffers from a notable lack of depth and challenge, particularly in the tactical combat aspect. Many reviewers, including Comicbook.com and Finger Guns, express frustration with the simplicity of the battles, describing them as straightforward and lacking strategic complexity. Critics like Inverse and GamingTrend echo this sentiment, labeling the combat as tedious and emphasizing that it feels like a secondary feature to the visual novel segments. The recruitment mechanics are also criticized for being frustrating, as pointed out by RPG Site and Everyeye.it, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the gameplay. Overall, the critics agree that Digimon Survive leans heavily towards its visual novel roots, with tactical RPG elements that often feel underdeveloped. While the storytelling and character interactions are praised for their depth and engagement, the combat mechanics leave much to be desired, with many reviewers noting that they lack the complexity and challenge expected from a tactical RPG. Critics like Nintendo Life and Vandal highlight that while the gameplay serves to push the narrative forward, it ultimately feels simplistic and at times, tacked on. This mixed reception suggests that while Digimon Survive may appeal to fans of visual novels and the Digimon franchise, those seeking a robust tactical RPG experience may find it lacking.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive impresses with its striking graphics and artistic design, earning praise for vibrant character portraits and charming Chibi art style. Critics highlight its immersive visuals and premium polish; however, there are notable shortcomings, such as lackluster evolution sequences and inconsistent visuals in battle and environments. Overall, while the game shines in many areas, it struggles with uneven visual quality that may impact player immersion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Digimon Survive have garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting the game's strong artistic elements. Many reviewers, such as Finger Guns and MeuPlayStation, commend the game for its excellent presentation and premium polish, noting the animated characters and expressive environments that contribute to a visually appealing experience. The charming Chibi art style in combat, as pointed out by Dexerto, alongside the detailed anime visuals outside of combat, further enhances the game's aesthetic appeal. Critics like Inverse and KeenGamer emphasize the impressive character portraits and the vibrant color palette, which showcase the game's attention to detail and artistic quality. Overall, the visuals are described as captivating, with many reviewers noting that they successfully immerse players in the Digimon universe. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics point out notable shortcomings in the visual design. For instance, INVEN mentions a lack of polish in certain areas, particularly criticizing the underwhelming evolution sequences and a deficiency in elaborate cutscenes. New Game Network echoes this sentiment, describing the turn-based battle system visuals as bland and lackluster. Additionally, XboxEra highlights inconsistencies in the visual novel segments, suggesting that while some environments fit the anime aesthetic, others appear visually unappealing. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle also note that the user interface lacks polish, detracting from the overall visual experience. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are significant aspects that fall short of expectations. The overall consensus among critics is that Digimon Survive successfully delivers a visually engaging experience, particularly in its character design and animated elements. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and Vandal, emphasize the game's beautiful art direction and dynamic character illustrations, which help to elevate the narrative experience. However, the mixed opinions on certain visual elements, such as the battle graphics and environmental design, indicate that while the game has strong artistic merits, it also suffers from inconsistencies that may affect player immersion. Ultimately, Digimon Survive is recognized for its artistic achievements, but it faces challenges in delivering a uniformly polished visual experience across all aspects of gameplay.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive's sound design and music have received mostly positive reviews, with praise for the Japanese voice acting and atmospheric soundtrack enhancing emotional depth. Critics commend the haunting tracks, though some find the music forgettable and lacking memorable themes. The absence of an English dub has caused disappointment among reviewers, possibly alienating non-Japanese speakers. Overall, while the game shines in its audio experience, mixed feedback on the soundtrack's impact and voice options reveals a divided reception that may affect player expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Digimon Survive have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Cubed3 and Dexerto, praised the original Japanese voice acting, highlighting the fantastic performances that enhance the game's emotional depth. The soundtrack has also received accolades for its ability to complement the game's atmosphere; GameSpew noted that the tense and haunting tracks effectively enhance the dark tone, while God is a Geek described the soundtrack as beautiful, contributing significantly to the overall auditory experience. Critics like RPGamer and RPG Site echoed these sentiments, calling the soundtrack captivating and delightful, suggesting that it maintains its appeal both during gameplay and beyond. However, not all feedback has been uniformly positive. Some critics, such as KeenGamer and Worth Playing, found the music to be forgettable, with only a few standout tracks. KeenGamer specifically mentioned that the soundtrack sets a sardonic tone but lacks memorable background music, including battle tracks. Additionally, the absence of an English dub has been a point of contention for several reviewers, including GamingBolt and New Game Network, who expressed disappointment over the lack of English voice acting, potentially limiting immersion for non-Japanese speaking players. This sentiment was echoed by other critics who noted that while the Japanese voice acting is commendable, the subtitle-only format could alienate some players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Digimon Survive excels in its sound design and music, particularly through its Japanese voice acting and atmospheric soundtrack, there are notable drawbacks that detract from the experience. The divide in opinions on the soundtrack's memorability and the absence of an English voice option indicate that while many players will appreciate the immersive soundscape, others may find it lacking in certain areas. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Digital Trends recognized the strengths of the score, but the mixed feedback on the soundtrack's impact and the voice acting options highlights a nuanced reception that may influence potential players' expectations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive's Japanese voice acting is highly praised for its emotional depth and character connection, with critics lauding the performances as a major strength. However, the absence of an English dub has raised concerns among non-Japanese speakers, as reliance on subtitles can be a barrier. Despite minor translation issues, the overall consensus is that the voice acting greatly enhances the game's narrative and character development.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Digimon Survive has garnered significant praise from numerous critics, particularly for its original Japanese performances. Reviewers like Dexerto and MeuPlayStation commend the "fantastic performances" and "impeccable voice acting," highlighting how the Japanese voice cast enhances the game's emotional depth. Many critics, including RPGamer and Checkpoint Gaming, echo this sentiment, noting that the voice acting effectively conveys the characters' emotions and adds to the overall experience of the game. The consensus among several reviewers, such as GameSkinny and CGMagazine, indicates that the Japanese voice actors bring the characters to life, creating a strong connection with the audience. However, a notable downside to the voice acting in Digimon Survive is the absence of an English dub, which has raised concerns among some players. Critics like GamingBolt and COGconnected emphasize that the game features only Japanese voice acting, which may alienate non-Japanese speakers who must rely on subtitles. While Finger Guns suggests that this requirement to read text is not inherently negative, it still presents a barrier for players who may prefer audio localization. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GameGrin, mention minor translation issues, which could detract from the overall experience for players not fluent in Japanese. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Digimon Survive, despite the lack of English localization. The high-quality performances from the Japanese voice cast are widely recognized as a significant strength of the game, with many reviewers, including We Got This Covered and Switch Player, noting how the voice acting contributes to the depth and emotional resonance of the characters. While the subtitle-only format may pose challenges for some players, the general appreciation for the voice acting suggests that it is a compelling aspect of the game, enhancing its narrative and character development.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Digimon Survive" delivers a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. The PS4 and PC versions shine with solid production values and stable gameplay, while the Nintendo Switch offers a decent experience despite minor flaws. However, the Xbox One version is plagued by serious issues like translation errors and clunky gameplay, leading to an overall unpolished experience. Critics agree that while some platforms excel, others suffer significant technical shortcomings that detract from the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The technical performance of "Digimon Survive" across various gaming platforms presents a mixed bag of experiences. Starting with the positives, MeuPlayStation lauds the PS4 version for its outstanding production values, highlighting that the game shines in terms of technical elements and design. On the PC front, both GameGrin and The Mako Reactor provide favorable reviews, with GameGrin noting stable performance despite minor text and translation issues, while The Mako Reactor emphasizes that the PC port runs well on different hardware configurations. The Nintendo Switch version, reviewed by Vandal, also receives a nod for its overall performance, albeit with minor flaws like typos in subtitles. However, the negatives cannot be overlooked, particularly for the Xbox One version. GameSkinny points out significant issues such as translation errors, continuity problems, and pacing issues that detract from the overall experience. XboxEra echoes these sentiments, describing the game as unpolished with various technical issues, including labeling problems in the options menu and clunky exploration segments. The lack of English dubbing and alignment issues between spoken and translated text further exacerbate the Xbox One experience. The PC version, while generally stable, is not without its faults, as GameGrin mentions issues with combat tutorial pacing, indicating that even the better-performing platforms have room for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divergence in technical performance across platforms. The PS4 and PC versions appear to be the most polished, with MeuPlayStation and The Mako Reactor highlighting their strengths, while the Xbox One version suffers from notable technical shortcomings, as pointed out by GameSkinny and XboxEra. The Nintendo Switch version offers a satisfactory experience but is not entirely free of flaws, as noted by Vandal. This analysis underscores that while "Digimon Survive" has commendable production values and stable performance on certain platforms, it also grapples with significant technical issues that can hinder the gameplay experience on others.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Digimon Survive shines with its rich narrative, multiple endings, and over 100 Digimon to capture, making replayability appealing for dedicated fans. Critics praise its diverse choices and New Game+ feature, with some saying it can take 100 hours to fully explore. However, tedious chapter replays, slow pacing, and repetitive gameplay may deter casual players. Overall, it’s a must for die-hard Digimon fans but less enticing for those seeking a quick, engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Digimon Survive is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's multiple endings, branching dialogue choices, and the opportunity to capture and evolve over 100 different Digimon. Reviewers such as Dexerto and PlayStation Universe emphasize the diverse paths players can take, which not only enhance the narrative experience but also encourage exploration of various outcomes. The inclusion of a New Game+ feature, noted by critics like Worth Playing and DualShockers, further incentivizes players to engage with the game again to discover different storylines and character interactions. The game's length, with some critics mentioning it can take up to 100 hours for completionists (Generación Xbox), adds to its appeal for those seeking a substantial gameplay experience. However, several critics also point out notable drawbacks that may limit the game's replay value. Comicbook.com mentions the tediousness of replaying longer chapters, which could deter players from wanting to experience the game multiple times. Similarly, Everyeye.it warns that the repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements might restrict its appeal to only the most devoted fans of the genre. Finger Guns expresses a personal reluctance to replay the game despite acknowledging its replay features, suggesting that some players might find the experience less engaging after the initial playthrough. Additionally, Noisy Pixel notes that the slow pacing and lengthy dialogue scenes could deter players from diving back into the game. In summary, while Digimon Survive offers a rich tapestry of choices, endings, and gameplay mechanics that many critics appreciate, the potential for tedium and repetitive elements casts a shadow over its overall replay value. The consensus among critics like GamingTrend and RPGamer is that the game does provide substantial replayability through its karma system and relationship-building mechanics, but the enjoyment of multiple playthroughs may vary significantly among players. Ultimately, the game seems best suited for dedicated fans of the Digimon franchise and those who enjoy narrative-driven experiences, while casual players might find the investment in replaying less rewarding.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Digimon Survive is largely positive, with many reviewers praising its compelling narrative and unique blend of visual novel and tactical RPG elements. Critics like KeenGamer and Worth Playing highlight the game's mature story approach and its ability to engage players through its darker themes, which is a refreshing take on the franchise. The visuals have also received commendations, with reviewers from New Game Network and PlayStation Universe noting the stunning graphics and voice acting that enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the game is recognized for its accessibility, making it appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers to the series, as pointed out by Cubed3 and Atomix. However, Digimon Survive is not without its flaws, which have been noted by several critics. Many reviewers, including My critic from Comicbook.com and Inverse, express disappointment in the combat mechanics, describing them as basic and lacking depth. This sentiment is echoed by critics like God is a Geek and Nintendo Insider, who emphasize that while the story is engaging, the gameplay fails to deliver the same level of excitement. Additionally, issues such as pacing problems, localization errors, and repetitive gameplay have been mentioned by critics like GameSkinny and Everyeye.it, suggesting that these shortcomings detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Digimon Survive offers a unique and engaging experience, particularly for fans of the Digimon franchise and visual novels. While the game excels in storytelling and visual presentation, it struggles with gameplay depth and execution, leading to mixed feelings about its overall quality. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Digital Trends suggest that it may find its place as a cult classic among dedicated fans, but it may not appeal universally to all players. Ultimately, Digimon Survive stands as a noteworthy entry in the franchise, with the potential for improvement in future iterations.

TL;DR

Digimon Survive receives largely positive reviews for its gripping narrative and stunning visuals, blending visual novel and tactical RPG elements. Critics praise its mature themes and accessibility for both new and old fans. However, it falters with basic combat mechanics, pacing issues, and repetitive gameplay, which detract from the experience. While the game shines in storytelling, it may not resonate with all players, potentially becoming a cult classic among dedicated fans. Overall, it’s a notable entry in the franchise with room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

101 reviews found

GameGrin

Aug 9, 2022