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Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless
Item: Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableOct 3, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

DeveloperNippon Ichi Software

Overview

The next chapter in the Disgaea saga. In Disgaea 7, the story is set in a world called "Hinomoto Netherworld Cluster," which is inspired by Japanese culture.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless offers a humorous and engaging narrative set in a whimsical Edo-period Japan, earning praise for its characters and comedic elements. Critics celebrate its lighthearted tone and emotional themes of redemption, making it a fun ride for fans. However, some reviewers note a lack of originality and depth compared to earlier games, with a few finding the plot clichéd and the humor potentially polarizing. Overall, while it may not revolutionize storytelling, it successfully blends absurdity and heart, delivering an enjoyable experience for its audience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless has garnered a generally positive reception, with many critics praising its humor, engaging characters, and the whimsical setting inspired by Edo-period Japan. CGMagazine highlights the strong rapport between the characters, particularly the protagonist Fuji and his quest to restore honor in Hinomoto. Critics like Nintendo Life and Starbit also commend the lighthearted tone and comedic elements that are characteristic of the Disgaea series. The narrative is described as entertaining and filled with absurd humor, as noted by Everyeye.it and Noisy Pixel, while the emotional engagement and themes of redemption are appreciated by Nintenderos. Overall, the combination of zany antics and heartfelt moments appears to resonate well with players, making the story a good vehicle for the game's turn-based battles. Despite the positive aspects, several critics have pointed out shortcomings in the story's originality and depth. For instance, PLAY! Zine mentions that while the characters and interactions are interesting, the overall narrative feels less engaging compared to previous installments. Hardcore Gamer criticizes the story as lackluster, indicating that it takes time to become interesting and that the characters feel forgettable. Similarly, COGconnected notes that the plot lacks groundbreaking elements, with some clichéd moments that may not resonate with all players. Critics like GameSpew also highlight that the humor may not appeal to everyone, suggesting that the ridiculousness of the narrative could be polarizing. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7 delivers a fun and humorous narrative that aligns well with the series' established style, despite some critiques regarding its originality and depth. While many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and Meristation, appreciate the engaging characters and comedic elements, others like Hardcore Gamer and PLAY! Zine feel that the story falls short in comparison to its predecessors. Ultimately, the game seems to successfully blend humor and heart, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise, even if it may not break new ground in storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless impresses critics with its mix of classic mechanics and fresh features like Jumbification and Hell Mode, enhancing strategic depth and customization. While many reviewers appreciate the balance between old and new gameplay elements, some caution that the overwhelming information load may intimidate newcomers. Despite a few frustrations with mechanics, most agree it's a rewarding experience for those who dive deep. Overall, it’s hailed as a strong addition to the Disgaea series, appealing to fans who relish strategic planning and character progression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate the blend of classic and innovative mechanics that enhance the strategic depth of the game. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Nintendo Life highlight the introduction of new features such as the Jumbification mechanic and Hell Mode, which add layers of complexity and excitement to battles. The game retains the series' hallmark of allowing players to deploy multiple units on a grid-based system, as noted by Everyeye.it and God is a Geek, while also emphasizing customization and character progression. Critics like Starbit and NintendoWorldReport commend the balance between traditional gameplay elements and new mechanics, making for a satisfying experience that encourages strategic planning and experimentation. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express concerns about the overwhelming amount of information presented to players, particularly newcomers. Multiplayer.it and Pure Nintendo point out that the game bombards players with statistics and mechanics right from the start, which could be daunting for those unfamiliar with the series. Additionally, while the introduction of manual healing after battles was seen as a new feature, it was also described as potentially frustrating by some, indicating that certain mechanics could have been better thought out. The complexity of the gameplay, while offering depth, may also detract from the enjoyment for players who prefer a more straightforward experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless successfully builds on the strengths of its predecessors while introducing engaging new elements. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameGrin and Hey Poor Player, agree that the gameplay is enjoyable and rewarding, particularly for players willing to invest time into mastering its various systems. The combination of strategic depth, character customization, and the whimsical charm that the series is known for has resonated well with critics, leading to a general sentiment that the game is a worthy addition to the Disgaea franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless dazzles with vibrant visuals and improved 3D models, winning praise for its anime-inspired aesthetic. Critics celebrate its lively design but highlight technical flaws, especially on the Nintendo Switch, where issues like framerate drops and repetitive backgrounds hinder the experience. Overall, while the game advances its visual style, it struggles with execution, leaving players divided on its performance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual 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 graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its vibrant and colorful aesthetic that appeals to fans of anime and Japanese animation. Reviewers like Multiplayer.it and Pure Nintendo highlighted the improved 3D models and smoother animations, noting that the game reflects the lively scenery of Hinomoto effectively. CGMagazine appreciated the game's adherence to its anime roots, while BaziCenter and GameGrin emphasized the distinct style that fans have come to appreciate. Additionally, the transition from 2D sprites to 3D models has been recognized as a step forward, with GameSpew mentioning the bold visuals and quirky designs that add character to the game. However, the visual design has not been without its criticisms. Several reviewers pointed out inconsistencies in the quality of the graphics, particularly regarding background details and technical performance on the Nintendo Switch. Everyeye.it noted that while character models are more detailed, the backgrounds appear repetitive and lack depth. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and PLAY! Zine mentioned issues like framerate drops and texture pop-in, which detracted from the overall experience. Hardcore Gamer even described the initial performance on the Switch as "horrendous," indicating that technical issues were a significant concern for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Disgaea 7 successfully builds upon its predecessor's visual style while introducing notable improvements in character design and animation. While many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Starbit, acknowledged the game's vibrant aesthetic and improved performance, the technical shortcomings, particularly on the Switch, were a recurring theme. This blend of commendation for the artistic direction and criticism for execution issues indicates that while the game has made strides in its visual presentation, it still faces challenges that could affect player enjoyment.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless impresses with solid sound design and a commendable soundtrack from Takeshi Matsumoto and Tomohiro Horihata, praised for its thematic depth and blend of instruments. Critics appreciate the choice of voiceovers, enhancing immersion. However, some note the music lacks standout tracks and innovation, leaving it feeling familiar and potentially underwhelming for newcomers. Overall, it’s a strong auditory experience, but it misses the chance for memorable compositions that could elevate it further.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an engaging auditory experience. Everyeye.it commends the soundtrack, composed by Takeshi Matsumoto and Tomohiro Horihata, as "excellent," noting its varied and fitting compositions for different scenarios. Similarly, RPG Site appreciates the blend of traditional Japanese and modern instruments, which adds depth to the overall soundscape. Critics like Meristation also highlight the game's ability to offer a choice between English and Japanese voiceovers, enhancing the immersive experience for players. Additionally, Hey Poor Player points out the strong sound design, indicating a thoughtful integration of mechanics from previous titles, which contributes to the overall enjoyment of the game. However, there are some criticisms regarding the music's impact. NintendoWorldReport mentions that while the music fits the game's theme, it lacks standout tracks, suggesting that it may not leave a lasting impression on players. GameSpew echoes this sentiment by stating that the music is familiar to fans of the series, implying a lack of innovation in this installment. COGconnected's review, while noting the catchiness of the music, does not delve into the sound design, leaving a gap in the overall analysis of the game's auditory elements. This absence of detailed critique on sound design, coupled with the mixed feelings about the music's memorability, indicates that while the sound is generally well-received, it may not fully meet the expectations of all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless delivers a solid auditory experience, though it may not break new ground in its musical offerings. While the soundtrack is praised for its quality and thematic relevance, as noted by Everyeye.it and RPG Site, there is a shared sentiment that it lacks standout moments that could elevate it further. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and GameSpew point out the familiarity of the music, which may resonate well with long-time fans but could leave newer players wanting more. In summary, the sound design and music contribute positively to the game, but there is room for innovation and memorable compositions that could enhance the overall 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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless shows significant technical improvements over its predecessor, especially on Nintendo Switch and PS5, with stable 60 FPS and smooth gameplay. However, the Switch version suffers from frame rate issues and texture pop-in, while minor performance hiccups persist on PS5. Critics are hopeful for future patches, but the game still has room for improvement across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless has garnered a largely positive reception across various platforms, particularly on the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. Critics such as Everyeye.it and Starbit highlight the significant improvements over its predecessor, Disgaea 6, noting that the game runs smoothly with options for graphical modes that cater to both image quality and frame rate. Nintendo Life and Multiplayer.it echo this sentiment, praising the stable 60 FPS in Performance mode and the overall fluidity of gameplay. On the PlayStation 5, reviewers like GameGrin and TheSixthAxis report a practically flawless experience, with only minor frame drops in Graphics mode, while Hardcore Gamer mentions that many of the technical issues present in the Switch version were resolved in this iteration. However, there are notable concerns regarding technical performance, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Critics like Noisy Pixel and PLAY! Zine point out significant frame rate issues and texture pop-in that detract from the overall experience, with Noisy Pixel stating that these issues persist regardless of whether the game is played in docked or handheld mode. God is a Geek also mentions that certain special moves can cause substantial frame drops, indicating that while improvements have been made, performance inconsistencies still exist. On the PlayStation 5, RPG Site notes that while the game generally runs smoothly, there are instances of hitching and FPS drops during combat, suggesting that even on more powerful hardware, there are still occasional performance hiccups. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless represents a notable technical improvement over its predecessor, particularly on the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. While the game performs well in general, with many praising its stability and graphical options, there are lingering issues that some reviewers cannot overlook. Critics like SpazioGames and Nintenderos acknowledge the presence of minor technical problems but remain optimistic about future patches to address these concerns. The PC version also appears to be well-optimized, with The Mako Reactor highlighting its performance and additional features, although it notes some usability issues on the Steam Deck. Overall, the game has made strides in technical performance, but it still has room for improvement across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a hit with critics, lauded for its deep character customization and extensive content, offering over 150 hours of gameplay. The game's engaging mechanics and replay value shine, especially for fans of the genre. However, some concerns about repetitiveness and grind could deter casual players. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking depth and longevity in their gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is overwhelmingly positive among critics, who commend the game for its extensive content and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers highlight the robust character customization options and deep systems for grinding, which encourage players to invest significant time into the game. For instance, CGMagazine notes the "wealth of stat grinding" that incentivizes prolonged engagement, while Everyeye.it emphasizes that players can easily spend over 150 hours perfecting their party and exploring side content. Additionally, the vast array of classes and abilities, as mentioned by God is a Geek, adds layers of depth that allow for experimentation and replayability, making it appealing to both newcomers and veterans of the series. Despite the strong praise, some critics raise concerns about potential drawbacks that could affect long-term engagement. Multiplayer.it points out that while the campaign can be completed without diving deeply into mechanics, the story lacks memorability, which may deter some players from revisiting it. SpazioGames mentions that the game can become repetitive after a certain point, indicating that while the initial replay value is high, the experience may lose its appeal for some after extensive play. Additionally, COGconnected notes that while the deep systems offer replay value, the grind can be a drawback, suggesting that the balance between enjoyment and effort might not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless provides significant replay value, particularly for fans of the genre. The game is praised for its extensive endgame content, with many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and BaziCenter, estimating hundreds of hours of gameplay available through various challenges and customization options. The combination of addictive mechanics, substantial post-game content, and the potential for competitive play creates a rich environment for dedicated players. While some concerns about repetitiveness and grind exist, the majority view the game as a worthwhile investment for those seeking depth and longevity in their gaming experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is largely positive, with many critics praising its improvements over previous entries in the series. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Nintenderos highlight the game as a significant step forward, emphasizing its cohesive narrative and engaging gameplay that appeals to both seasoned fans and newcomers. Critics like GameGrin and Hey Poor Player commend the deep gameplay mechanics and the charming art style, while others, such as Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo, appreciate the refined gameplay systems and the joy it brings to players. The game is noted for its high level of customization and strategic depth, with many reviewers indicating that it offers hundreds of hours of gameplay, making it a compelling choice for tactical RPG enthusiasts. However, despite the praise, there are criticisms that cannot be overlooked. Some reviewers, like Everyeye.it and SpazioGames, point out questionable changes in gameplay mechanics and a sense of repetitiveness that may detract from the experience. The technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, are mentioned by God is a Geek, indicating that while improvements have been made, some flaws still persist. Additionally, critics like Hardcore Gamer and GameSpew express concerns about the narrative and character depth, suggesting that while the combat is engaging, the story may not resonate as strongly with players. The challenge level has also been noted as potentially daunting for newcomers, as highlighted by Pure Nintendo. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a commendable entry in the series, successfully building on its predecessors while introducing new elements that enhance the gameplay experience. While there are concerns regarding certain gameplay changes and technical issues, the majority of reviewers, including those from Tech-Gaming and The Mako Reactor, agree that the game is a worthy recommendation for fans of the genre. The combination of strategic depth, humor, and a charming presentation has resonated well with players, making it a standout title in the tactical RPG landscape.

TL;DR

TL;DR: Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless receives mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, cohesive narrative, and charming art style, making it a solid choice for tactical RPG fans. Critics praise its depth and customization options but note some gameplay changes and technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. While the story may lack depth and the challenge could be daunting for newcomers, the game is still seen as a worthy addition to the series that successfully enhances the overall experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

58 reviews found

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Sep 26, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is a fully realized entry in the series that combines familiar elements with fresh mechanics, making it one of the reviewer's favorite entries.

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GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Oct 2, 2023

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is an excellent tactical RPG with deep gameplay, a gorgeous art style, and well-written characters. It is one of the most enjoyable SRPGs in years.

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Starbit

Nintendo Switch

Mar 27, 2024

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is considered one of the best entries in the series, successfully reinventing itself and improving upon its predecessor in multiple aspects.

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Oct 16, 2023

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a great entry in the Disgaea series, fixing the mistakes of its predecessor and offering a fresh and enjoyable experience.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Sep 26, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is a worthwhile entry in the series, offering a refined take on the gameplay systems and a charming story. It is newcomer-friendly but may not be for everyone due to its deliberate approach to min-maxing. Recommended for RPG fans and longtime Disgaea fans.

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Tech-Gaming

Oct 2, 2023

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless returns to the franchise's grid-based glory, delighting Disgaea devotees. The story and gameplay are strong, offering amusing interactions and familiar mechanics. The game provides a sense of freedom and replay value.

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PLAY! Zine

Nintendo Switch

Nov 10, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is considered one of the best entries in the series, providing a colorful and entertaining experience, despite some narrative shortcomings and technical issues.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Nov 8, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is praised as a fantastic and meaty game, promising hundreds of hours of gameplay and excitement for future entries in the series.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Sep 26, 2023

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is praised as a very good strategy game that builds upon its predecessors. It is considered a great step forward from the previous installment and is recommended for fans of the genre.

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PC Invasion

Oct 10, 2023

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

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a satisfying new entry in the series, building on its predecessors while adding new content and modes. It is as good as the series has been in over a decade.

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