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Dordogne

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJun 13, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperUn Je Ne Sais Quoi

Overview

Dordogne is a narrative adventure game in which you play as Mimi, a 32-year-old woman visiting the house of her recently deceased grandmother. Dordogne is set both in the present and the past. In the present timeline, Mimi explores the rooms in her grandmother’s home. In the past timeline, you’ll help a 10-year-old Mimi explore Dordogne and complete her quests, affecting the present. Along with the puzzles that both versions of Mimi will solve, you’ll collect photos, sounds, objects and words to create Mimi’s journal – keeping young Mimi’s memories of summers spent with her grandmother in Dordogne.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Dordogne evokes mixed reactions: praised for its emotional depth and nostalgic themes, many critics laud its touching exploration of family and childhood. Engaging storytelling techniques enhance the experience, yet the narrative suffers from predictability and unresolved elements, leaving some players unsatisfied. Ultimately, while it resonates with some, others feel it falls short of its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Dordogne is mixed, with several critics praising its emotional depth and nostalgic themes. Many reviewers, such as Nintendo Life and COGconnected, highlight the game's touching exploration of family ties and childhood memories. The narrative is often described as a poignant journey, with critics like The Games Machine and Finger Guns noting its emotional resonance and relatability. The use of flashbacks, as mentioned by KeenGamer, is also recognized for effectively engaging players in the protagonist Mimi's journey of self-discovery. Additionally, IGN Spain emphasizes the well-executed storytelling techniques, including voice acting and text, which enhance the emotional experience. Conversely, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's execution and engagement levels. Multiplayer.it points out that while the premise is promising, the narrative ultimately becomes predictable and lacks depth. Critics like Gamersky and Slant Magazine express disappointment with the dual narrative structure, suggesting it fails to provide a satisfying resolution or compelling hook. The linear storytelling approach, as mentioned by Games.cz, leaves many unanswered questions, which detracts from the overall impact of the narrative. This sentiment is echoed by Game Informer, who notes that while the story features whimsical elements, it lacks clarity on certain topics. In summary, while Dordogne is praised for its emotional storytelling and nostalgic themes by many critics, it also faces criticism for predictability and unresolved narrative elements. The mixed reviews indicate that while some players may find the story deeply engaging and touching, others may feel let down by its execution. Critics like Everyeye.it and Adventure Gamers appreciate the journey of rediscovering childhood memories, yet the overall consensus suggests that the narrative could have benefitted from a more compelling structure and resolution to elevate its emotional impact.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dordogne's gameplay impresses with immersive mechanics and a creative non-linear structure, allowing players to switch between the protagonist's childhood and adulthood. Critics praise its charm, exploration, and puzzle-solving. However, it faces backlash for being overly simplistic, having technical glitches, and suffering from clunky controls. While the emotional narrative resonates, many feel it lacks depth and interactivity, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Dordogne has received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its engaging and interactive elements. KeenGamer highlights the immersive hands-on mechanics that enhance the player's experience, while IGN Spain appreciates the non-linear gameplay that allows players to switch between controlling adult Mimi and her younger self, fostering a sense of curiosity. Critics like Game Informer and TheSixthAxis also commend the unique gameplay mechanics and the realistic feel of manual interactions, which contribute to the overall charm of the game. Furthermore, the exploration and light puzzle-solving aspects, as noted by Everyeye.it and WellPlayed, are seen as enjoyable elements that add depth to the gameplay. However, the gameplay of Dordogne is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers point out issues with simplicity and lack of depth, with Multiplayer.it describing the gameplay as "forgettable and elementary." Nintendo Life mentions technical problems such as slow movement and occasional slowdowns, which detract from the overall experience. Finger Guns criticizes the limited and restrictive nature of the gameplay, citing clunky controls and fixed camera angles as hindrances. Additionally, GameSpew notes that some tasks, like brushing teeth and pouring tea, feel laborious and do not contribute meaningfully to the experience, leading to a sense of tedium. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Dordogne offers a charming and immersive experience with its engaging elements and unique mechanics, it suffers from significant drawbacks in terms of simplicity, technical issues, and a lack of interactivity. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and IGN France emphasize the guided nature of the gameplay, which can limit player freedom and exploration. While some aspects, such as the scrapbook mechanics and the emotional journey of the protagonist, are appreciated, the overall gameplay experience is often viewed as lacking in depth and innovation, leading to mixed feelings about its execution.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dordogne dazzles with its acclaimed watercolor art style, immersing players in a dream-like world that beautifully captures themes of memory and nostalgia. Critics rave about its stunning landscapes and intricate details, elevating the game’s atmosphere to an artistic masterpiece. However, some gameplay flaws, like restricted exploration and awkward camera angles, detract from the experience. Overall, the visuals are hailed as a significant achievement, solidifying Dordogne as one of the most visually stunning games out there, despite its gameplay shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

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 Dordogne have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its distinctive watercolor art style that evokes a dream-like quality. Reviewers like KeenGamer and Nintendo Life emphasize how this unique visual approach enhances the themes of memory and nostalgia, effectively immersing players in the game's atmosphere. The vibrant and beautifully depicted landscapes, particularly the representation of the French countryside, have been highlighted by critics such as NintendoWorldReport and Everyeye.it, who describe the visuals as "stunning" and "enchanting." Finger Guns and Game Informer also note the intricate details and the interactive nature of the scenes, likening them to an artist's gallery. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the watercolor aesthetics not only beautify the game but also serve as a significant narrative device, as mentioned by The Games Machine. While the visuals receive high praise, some critics have pointed out limitations that affect the overall experience. COGconnected mentions that the small environments and invisible walls restrict exploration, which can detract from the immersive quality of the stunning visuals. Game Informer also highlights that odd camera angles may hinder players' ability to navigate the beautifully crafted environments, indicating a disconnect between the visual splendor and gameplay mechanics. Despite the breathtaking art direction, these critiques suggest that while the graphics are indeed a highlight, they are not without their functional shortcomings. In summary, the overall sentiment from critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Dordogne is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a masterpiece of art direction. Critics like Gameblog.fr and WellPlayed laud the game for its ability to transport players into a beautifully rendered world, while others such as Gamersky and IGN France appreciate how the visuals enhance the narrative experience. Despite some concerns about gameplay limitations, the consensus remains that the watercolor art style is a significant achievement, making Dordogne one of the most visually stunning games of its time.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dordogne's sound design and music receive widespread acclaim for evoking emotions and enhancing the game's immersive experience, with critics praising its nostalgic soundtrack and seamless integration of audio elements. However, some dissenters note issues with polish and balance, suggesting that while the music contributes significantly to the game’s charm, it could use refinement in parts. Overall, the consensus is that the audio is integral to Dordogne's storytelling and emotional depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound 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 music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Dordogne have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who have praised the game's ability to evoke emotions and enhance the overall experience. KeenGamer highlights how the soundtrack beautifully complements the game's themes, evoking nostalgia and joy, while Nintendo Life emphasizes that the sound and music contribute significantly to the game's beautiful world and touching story. Critics like COGconnected and Finger Guns further elaborate on the game's audio landscape, noting the subtle score and natural diegetic sounds that merge seamlessly with the visuals, creating an unforgettable experience. The mixture of jangly guitars, echoing synths, and rhythmic drums noted by Finger Guns showcases the game's polished audio-visual experience, while Adventure Gamers appreciates the entrancing background music and excellent voice acting that brings characters to life. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there are a few dissenting opinions regarding the sound design and music in Dordogne. Multiplayer.it describes the audio elements as lacking polish and not particularly memorable, which stands in stark contrast to the majority opinion. IGN France also mentions that while the music is pleasant, it can sometimes be overly present, suggesting that it may detract from the experience in certain moments. These criticisms indicate that while many aspects of the sound design are commendable, there are areas that could benefit from refinement and balance. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily toward a favorable view of Dordogne's sound design and music, with the majority praising its ability to enhance the game's emotional depth and immersive qualities. Critics like Game Informer and TheSixthAxis highlight the charm and ethereal atmosphere created by the soundtrack, while IGN Spain notes the effectiveness of the sound design in creating a captivating atmosphere. While there are some critiques regarding polish and presence, the prevailing sentiment is that Dordogne's audio elements are integral to its charm and storytelling, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The French voice acting in "Dordogne" is widely praised for enhancing emotional depth and immersion, with critics highlighting its quality and connection to characters. In contrast, the English voice acting falls short, suffering from inconsistencies that could disrupt player engagement. Overall, the game's emotional experience shines in French, while the English version may leave some players dissatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in "Dordogne" has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly highlighting the quality of the French voiceovers. Reviewers such as IGN Spain and Gamersky emphasize that the French voice acting significantly enhances the emotional experience and atmosphere of the game. IGN Spain specifically notes that the well-done voice acting adds depth to the characters, while Adventure Gamers praises the excellent delivery during cutscenes, effectively bringing the characters to life and allowing players to connect with their emotional journeys. Gameblog.fr also supports this sentiment, stating that the French voice acting contributes to the overall immersion of the game, creating a rich auditory experience for players. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Multiplayer.it points out inconsistencies in the English voice acting, suggesting that it does not reach the same level of quality as the French performances. This disparity may detract from the experience for players who opt for the English version, as the lack of consistency can lead to a disjointed narrative flow. While the main characters receive praise for their voice acting, the overall inconsistency in the English version presents a notable drawback that could affect players' engagement with the story. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a strong appreciation for the voice acting in "Dordogne," particularly in its original French version. While there are concerns regarding the English voice acting's inconsistency, the majority of reviewers, including Adventure Gamers and Gamersky, affirm that the voice performances significantly enhance the game's emotional depth and immersion. This mixed reception highlights the importance of localization quality in gaming, where the original voice acting shines, but the English adaptation may leave some players wanting more.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Dordogne" faces mixed reviews for technical performance. On Nintendo Switch, it generally runs well but suffers from issues like long load times and movement glitches. The PlayStation 5 version is even more polarizing, with some players encountering a critical bug that prevents startup, while others report a smooth experience. Overall, the game's technical flaws hinder the gameplay experience across platforms, creating a contentious reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech 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 technical performance.

The technical performance of "Dordogne" has garnered a mix of opinions across different gaming platforms, particularly the Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Multiplayer.it have praised the game for its overall technical performance, indicating that it runs well on the platform. KeenGamer noted the presence of a good autosave system, which is a positive aspect that enhances gameplay experience. Additionally, while NintendoWorldReport pointed out long load times, this does not overshadow the generally favorable reception regarding how the game performs on the Switch. However, several reviewers have also highlighted notable issues with the Nintendo Switch version. Nintendo Life pointed out technical problems related to movement and interaction, including slowdown and difficulties in identifying hotspots, which can detract from the immersive experience. KeenGamer echoed this sentiment by mentioning minor hiccups that necessitated reloading during gameplay. Furthermore, the long load times mentioned by NintendoWorldReport can disrupt the pacing of the game, indicating that while the Switch version has its strengths, it is not without its flaws. Turning to the PlayStation 5, the consensus is more divided. IGN Spain reported a significant bug that prevents the game from starting on the first attempt, which is a critical issue that needs immediate attention. This contrasts sharply with The Games Machine, which reported no technical issues during gameplay, suggesting that the experience may vary among players. Overall, the critics' consensus indicates that while "Dordogne" has some strong technical elements, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, it is marred by various issues that affect gameplay, especially on the PS5. The mixed feedback suggests that the game's technical performance is a point of contention, with some players experiencing a smoother experience than others.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dordogne has a mixed reception on replay value. Critics praise its engaging story and collectibles that encourage exploration, while also pointing out major drawbacks like the inability to replay chapters and its short four-hour length. Ultimately, the game offers some nostalgic appeal but is hampered by structural limitations that may leave players craving more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Dordogne reflect a nuanced perspective among critics, highlighting some positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. KeenGamer notes that the engaging story and multiple choice dialogues encourage players to explore different outcomes, suggesting that the narrative depth can entice players to revisit the game. Similarly, IGN Spain emphasizes the replay value found in collectibles and the ability to design pages in a travel journal, which, while not essential to completing the game, enriches the overall experience and appeals to players' nostalgic tendencies. WellPlayed also points out the significance of collectibles tied to the player's journey, indicating that the journal serves as a meaningful way to reflect on the game's moments, enhancing the emotional connection to the story. On the flip side, several critics express concerns that significantly impact the game's replay value. Game Informer and Gameblog.fr both highlight the inability to replay chapters or retrieve missed collectibles, which can frustrate players who wish to fully explore the game’s content. Gamersky reiterates this sentiment by noting the game's relatively short completion time of about four hours, suggesting that players seeking a more extensive experience may find the limited replay value disappointing. This sentiment is echoed across multiple reviews, indicating a consensus that the game’s structure may not support extensive replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Dordogne. While some aspects, such as the engaging narrative and the appeal of collectibles, provide reasons for players to revisit the game, significant limitations—like the inability to replay chapters and the short length—detract from its overall replayability. Critics like KeenGamer and IGN Spain recognize the potential for exploration and nostalgia, yet the overarching concerns voiced by Game Informer and Gameblog.fr suggest that many players may ultimately find the game lacking in opportunities for repeated engagement. As such, while Dordogne offers some enticing elements for replay, these are overshadowed by structural limitations that may leave players wanting more.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Dordogne among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its artistic direction, emotional depth, and captivating storytelling. Reviewers like KeenGamer and Nintendo Life highlight the game's ability to evoke strong emotions through its narrative and visuals, describing it as a "memorable and reflective experience." The art style is frequently noted as a standout feature, with critics such as COGconnected and Game Informer emphasizing the "incredible art direction" and "beautifully animated adventure." Additionally, the sound design and music receive accolades, contributing to the game's immersive atmosphere. Critics like The Games Machine and TheSixthAxis describe Dordogne as a "touching" and "delicate" experience that resonates deeply with players, showcasing its potential to leave a lasting impression. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers point out significant shortcomings in gameplay mechanics and narrative structure. Multiplayer.it and Gamersky mention that while Dordogne has artistic merit, it "falls short in terms of gameplay" and suffers from "narrative shortcomings." Critics like Finger Guns and Everyeye.it note that the gameplay feels limited, with some frustrations arising from controls and pacing. Technical issues are also a recurring theme, as highlighted by IGN Spain and others, who mention minor animation problems that detract from the overall experience. This mixed reception regarding gameplay and narrative coherence suggests that while the game excels in certain areas, it struggles to deliver a fully engaging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dordogne is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging game that is worth experiencing, particularly for fans of narrative-driven titles. While there are notable flaws in gameplay and storytelling, as pointed out by critics like Slant Magazine and IGN France, the game's artistic achievements and heartfelt narrative resonate with many players. The general sentiment leans towards appreciation for its unique qualities, with many reviewers recommending it as a "lovely and contemplative adventure" (The Indie Informer) that may not appeal to everyone but holds significant value for those who appreciate its emotional and artistic depth.

TL;DR

Dordogne has garnered positive acclaim for its stunning art, emotional storytelling, and immersive sound design, making it a memorable experience for players. Critics praise its artistic direction but note significant gameplay and narrative flaws, including limited controls and pacing issues. While it excels in visual and emotional depth, it’s not without technical shortcomings. Overall, Dordogne is recommended as a captivating, if imperfect, journey for fans of narrative-driven games.

MONSTER

Reviews

42 reviews found

KeenGamer

Nintendo Switch

Jun 16, 2023