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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

PlatformNintendo 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 is garnering positive reviews for its humor, character dynamics, and engaging narrative, especially the bond between protagonists Fuji and Pirilika. Critics celebrate its lighthearted tone and zany interactions, characteristic of the franchise. However, some lament its lack of depth and originality, with certain characters and dialogue feeling forgettable. While the absurd humor may not resonate with everyone, the game remains a fun continuation of the Disgaea legacy, appealing to both fans and newcomers despite its narrative shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its humor, character dynamics, and engaging narrative. Reviewers like CGMagazine highlight the blend of bushido themes with a heartfelt story, particularly focusing on the relationship between the protagonists, Fuji and Pirilika. Critics from Nintendo Life and Starbit appreciate the lighthearted and silly tone, which captures the series' unique style, while Everyeye.it and Noisy Pixel note the absurd humor and zany character interactions that are hallmarks of the Disgaea franchise. The narrative's setting in a feudal Japan-inspired Netherworld adds a layer of charm, making it appealing for fans of the series and newcomers alike. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the depth and originality of the story. Critics such as PLAY! Zine and Hardcore Gamer express disappointment in the narrative's lack of engagement compared to previous installments, with the latter describing the characters as forgettable and the dialogue as middling. While some reviewers, like COGconnected, acknowledge the story's clichéd elements and predictable plot points, others like GameSpew mention that the humor may not resonate with everyone, suggesting that the absurdity could alienate certain players. This mixed reception indicates that while the comedic elements are appreciated, they may not compensate for a perceived lack of depth in the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Disgaea 7 delivers a fun and entertaining story that aligns with the franchise's established tone, though it may not break new ground in terms of narrative complexity. Reviewers like God is a Geek and RPG Site commend the engaging character dynamics and humor, while others like BaziCenter and Meristation emphasize the charm of the interactions. Despite some critiques regarding its originality and depth, the game is largely seen as a successful continuation of the Disgaea legacy, providing an enjoyable experience for fans of quirky, comedic RPGs.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless impresses critics with its blend of traditional strategy RPG elements and innovative mechanics like Hell Mode and Jumbification, enhancing combat depth and customization across over forty classes. While the turn-based combat is praised for its tactical options, some newcomers may find the game's complexity overwhelming due to an influx of stats and intricate systems. Despite this, the game's strategic richness and character customization are lauded, promising a rewarding experience for players willing to dive in.

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 game's retention of classic strategy RPG elements while introducing innovative mechanics. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Nintendo Life highlight the gradual introduction of new features such as Hell Mode and Jumbification, which enhance combat dynamics and add layers of strategy. The game allows for a high degree of customization, with over forty classes to experiment with and mechanics like lifting and throwing units, which add complexity to battles. Critics also note the satisfying nature of the turn-based combat, with many praising the depth and tactical options available, as seen in the opinions of God is a Geek and GameGrin. However, some reviewers pointed out that the game's complexity could be overwhelming for newcomers. Multiplayer.it mentioned that players are bombarded with statistics and parameters from the outset, which may pose a challenge for those unfamiliar with the series. Additionally, while the introduction of new mechanics like manual healing after battles was seen as a quality-of-life improvement, it was also noted by some, including Noisy Pixel, that certain mechanics could have been better thought out. Critics like BaziCenter echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the intricate systems might deter new players from fully engaging with the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless successfully builds upon the established formula of the series while introducing fresh and engaging mechanics. The majority of reviewers, including those from Nintendo World Report and Push Square, praised the balance and depth of the gameplay, even if some aspects could be daunting for beginners. The introduction of Jumbification and Hell Mode, along with a focus on character customization and strategic planning, has been well-received, making it clear that the game offers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time to master its systems.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless impresses with its vibrant 3D visuals and improved character models, earning praise for its lively aesthetic that appeals to anime fans. However, critics point to significant technical issues on the Nintendo Switch, including framerate drops and repetitive backgrounds, detracting from the experience. While the game shows promise in its graphical evolution, it faces challenges in balancing style and stability, leaving room for improvement as it moves forward.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

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 range of positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding the game's transition to 3D models. Reviewers such as Multiplayer.it and Nintendo Life have praised the improved character models and animations, noting that the vibrant and colorful visuals effectively reflect the lively scenery of Hinomoto. Critics like Nintenderos and Starbit also highlighted the technical advancements, with Nintenderos specifically pointing out the exemplary performance of the game on the Nintendo Switch. The overall aesthetic has been described as appealing to fans of Japanese animation, with GameGrin and GameSpew commending the quirky character designs and distinct visual style, marking it as the best-looking game in the series. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including Everyeye.it and Noisy Pixel, pointed out inconsistencies in the quality of the 3D graphics, with backgrounds and stage designs appearing repetitive and lacking detail. Technical issues, such as framerate drops and texture pop-in, were noted by critics like PLAY! Zine and SpazioGames, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Hardcore Gamer even described the initial performance on the Switch as “horrendous,” indicating that these issues detracted from the overall experience for some players. These technical shortcomings, especially in terms of stability and visual clarity, have been a recurring theme in the critiques. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Disgaea 7 has made significant strides in its graphical presentation with improved 3D models and vibrant visuals, it still suffers from technical inconsistencies and performance issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. The transition from 2D sprites to 3D models has been met with mixed feelings; some reviewers appreciate the bold new direction, while others lament the loss of the franchise's traditional aesthetic. The game appears to resonate well with fans of the series, as noted by CGMagazine and Pure Nintendo, but the technical flaws highlighted by others indicate that there is room for improvement. Balancing the vibrant art style with stable performance remains a key challenge for the developers moving forward.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless impresses with its engaging sound design and catchy soundtrack, praised for blending traditional and modern styles. Critics highlight its effectiveness in enhancing gameplay but point out a lack of standout tracks and originality, with some expressing a desire for more innovation. Overall, it's a solid auditory experience that supports the game well, but doesn't break new ground musically.

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 Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless have garnered generally positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an engaging auditory experience. Everyeye.it praises the soundtrack composed by Takeshi Matsumoto and Tomohiro Horihata as "excellent," noting its varied and fitting music for different situations. Similarly, RPG Site appreciates the combination of traditional Japanese and modern instruments, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Critics like COGconnected and Meristation also acknowledge the music's catchiness and its successful blend of traditional and contemporary styles, contributing positively to the gameplay experience. Furthermore, Hey Poor Player emphasizes the strong sound design, suggesting a well-rounded auditory framework that complements the game's mechanics. However, there are some criticisms regarding the music's impact and originality. NintendoWorldReport points out that while the music fits the game's theme, it lacks standout tracks that could elevate the experience. GameSpew echoes this sentiment, indicating that the music feels familiar to fans of the series, implying a lack of innovation in this installment. The absence of specific commentary on sound design from COGconnected also suggests that while the music is enjoyable, it may not be groundbreaking or memorable enough to leave a lasting impression. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless features a solid sound design and music that effectively supports the game's themes and mechanics. While there are commendations for the catchy and well-composed tracks, some critics express a desire for more originality and standout moments within the soundtrack. The combination of positive remarks from critics like Everyeye.it and RPG Site, alongside the reservations noted by NintendoWorldReport and GameSpew, paints a picture of a game that excels in its auditory elements but may not fully innovate within its musical offerings.

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 shines technically, especially on PS5 with "practically flawless" performance, but the Switch version faces notable frame rate issues and texture problems. Critics appreciate the improvements over Disgaea 6, yet some gameplay hiccups persist on both platforms, leaving room for future patches to enhance the experience. Overall, optimism prevails despite the flaws.

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 generally positive reception across both the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Everyeye.it and Multiplayer.it noted significant improvements over its predecessor, Disgaea 6, highlighting the game’s two graphical modes that allow players to choose between enhanced image quality and a stable frame rate around 60 fps. Nintenderos praised the game for its stability, while Nintendo Life confirmed that, despite some frame drops in Graphics mode, the game runs smoothly in Performance mode. On the PlayStation 5, the consensus is even stronger, with GameGrin describing the performance as "practically flawless" and TheSixthAxis reporting no signs of slowdown, indicating a smooth experience overall. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. God is a Geek and Noisy Pixel mentioned issues with framerate drops during certain special moves and general gameplay, while PLAY! Zine expressed concerns about significant frame rate issues that detracted from the overall experience. Texture pop-in and brief image freezes were also noted by SpazioGames, suggesting that while the game has improved, it is not without its flaws. On the PlayStation 5, RPG Site reported hitching and FPS drops during combat, indicating that even on the more powerful console, some technical issues persist. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Disgaea 7 has made strides in technical performance compared to its predecessor, especially on the PlayStation 5, where it is lauded for its smoothness and stability. Critics across both platforms acknowledge the improvements but also highlight remaining issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where performance can be inconsistent. The general sentiment leans towards optimism, with many reviewers, such as Starbit and BaziCenter, recognizing the potential for further enhancements through patches and updates, which may ultimately enhance the experience for players on both platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a replay value powerhouse, praised for its extensive content, deep character customization, and endless gameplay potential—think hundreds of hours spent grinding and strategizing. Critics love the variety of classes and engaging mechanics, making it a must-play for series fans and newcomers alike. However, some highlight issues like a forgettable story and potential repetitiveness that could dampen long-term appeal. Overall, if you're ready to dive deep, Disgaea 7 offers a rich and rewarding experience that stands strong in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is overwhelmingly positive, with critics highlighting the game’s extensive content and engaging mechanics. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and Nintendo Life emphasize the robust character customization options and the depth of stat grinding, which encourage players to invest significant time into the game. Many critics, including Everyeye.it and Nintenderos, note that players can easily accumulate hundreds of hours of gameplay, especially when exploring the vast array of side content and post-game challenges. The presence of over 40 classes and numerous abilities, as mentioned by God is a Geek, further enhances the appeal for players who enjoy experimenting with different strategies and builds. However, some reviewers point out potential drawbacks that could affect the replay value for certain players. Multiplayer.it mentions that while the campaign can be completed without delving deeply into the mechanics, the story lacks memorability, which may deter some players from returning. SpazioGames raises concerns about repetitiveness, suggesting that the game may lose its appeal after extensive engagement with its features. Additionally, COGconnected notes that while the post-game content is robust, the grind associated with it might be seen as a drawback, particularly for those who prefer a more streamlined experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless offers significant replay value, appealing to both series veterans and newcomers willing to invest time. The game’s extensive content, including challenging endgame scenarios and various customization options, is praised by many, including BaziCenter and RPG Site. Despite some concerns about repetitiveness and the potential grind, the majority of reviewers agree that the game provides a wealth of engaging content that can keep players occupied for hundreds of hours, making it a worthy addition to the Disgaea franchise.

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 regarding Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its improvements over previous entries in the series. CGMagazine highlights the game as a significant improvement, commending its cohesive narrative and engaging gameplay that appeals to both seasoned fans and newcomers. Nintendo Life echoes this sentiment, describing it as a worthwhile entry that refines gameplay systems while offering a charming story. Critics like Starbit and BaziCenter emphasize the game’s successful reinvention and return to the series' roots, with engaging gameplay and humor that resonate well with players. The depth of customization and strategic options also received accolades, with reviewers like God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it noting the thoughtful tactics and variety of classes available. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics point out notable drawbacks. Everyeye.it mentions questionable changes to gameplay mechanics and the potential hindrance posed by grinding, which may detract from the overall experience. Technical issues, though improved, were still noted by God is a Geek, indicating that performance on the Switch could be a concern. SpazioGames criticizes the game for lacking innovation and suffering from repetitiveness, which could alienate long-time fans seeking fresh content. Additionally, Hardcore Gamer points out a lackluster story and forgettable characters, which can detract from the otherwise strategic and engaging combat experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless is a commendable entry in the series, successfully building upon its predecessors while offering a rich and engaging experience for both new and returning players. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's improvements and depth, with many recommending it for fans of tactical RPGs. Critics like Noisy Pixel and TheGamer highlight the game as a course correction from its predecessor, further solidifying its status as a worthy installment in the Disgaea franchise. Despite some critiques regarding gameplay mechanics and technical performance, the overall verdict remains very good, suggesting that the game is a must-try for SRPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless receives strong praise for its engaging gameplay, improved narrative, and strategic depth, appealing to both newcomers and veterans. Critics commend its return to the series' roots and customization options, positioning it as a significant upgrade. However, concerns about gameplay mechanics, grinding, technical issues, and a lack of innovation temper the enthusiasm. Despite these drawbacks, it’s deemed a worthy installment and a must-try for tactical RPG fans. Overall, a commendable addition to the Disgaea franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

55 reviews found

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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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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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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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.

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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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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BaziCenter

PlayStation 5

Nov 17, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is a return to the series' roots, successfully implementing beloved elements while improving on previous issues. It is likely to attract fans of tactical RPGs with its engaging gameplay and comedic story.

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Oct 3, 2023

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

Disgaea 7 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a cohesive narrative and engaging gameplay that appeals to both SRPG fans and newcomers, though it may not win over those averse to its style.

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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