Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Steam

Twitch

MONSTER

Dungeons of Hinterberg

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

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Interactive Movie, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJul 18, 2024

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperMicrobird Games

Overview

From developer Microbird, Dungeons of Hinterberg takes place in the Austrian Alps, where the small town of Hinterberg has become a tourist destination due to its lush scenery and crisp mountain air. And also monsters. It's a great place to holiday if you want to kill some monsters.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses critics with its unique story of Luisa, a lawyer-in-training seeking adventure in a magical alpine village. The narrative tackles themes of capitalism, tourism, and personal growth, earning praise for character development and exploration. However, some reviewers criticize its predictability and lack of emotional depth, viewing it as a superficial layer over standard gameplay. Overall, while it has flaws, the game offers a compelling blend of fantasy and relatable issues, making it a noteworthy entry in the dungeon-crawling genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Dungeons of Hinterberg has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its unique premise and engaging narrative. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and IGN Brasil, highlight the intriguing concept of a lawyer-in-training, Luisa, seeking a break from her routine life in a magical alpine village filled with dungeons and mysteries. Critics like Digital Trends and GGRecon commend the game for tackling deeper themes such as capitalism, tourism, and personal growth, suggesting that the narrative resonates with players on multiple levels. The character interactions and the protagonist's journey of self-discovery are frequently praised, with Noisy Pixel and TechRadar Gaming noting that the game successfully blends exploration with meaningful character development. However, several critics also point out weaknesses in the story's execution. COGconnected describes the narrative as a "thin veneer" over standard ARPG gameplay, implying that it lacks depth and complexity. Gamesurf echoes this sentiment, criticizing the simplistic good vs. evil narrative that detracts from the potential richness of the story. Additionally, RPG Site and Twinfinite mention that while the story serves its purpose, it can be predictable and lacks strong emotional impact. This sentiment is echoed by other critics who feel that the narrative, while engaging, does not fully capitalize on its intriguing premise. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a captivating narrative that combines fantasy elements with contemporary themes. While there are criticisms regarding its predictability and occasional lack of depth, many reviewers, including Digital Spy and GameCritics, appreciate the exploration of relatable issues such as burnout and self-discovery. The game's ability to weave together character interactions and thematic elements, as noted by critics like PCGamesN and Inverse, indicates that despite its flaws, the story resonates with players and provides a fresh take on the dungeon-crawling genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses with its nostalgic charm and modern gameplay, blending classic 3D Zelda vibes with unique puzzles and magical abilities. Critics praise its captivating mix of combat, exploration, and social interactions, making it accessible to many players. However, repetitive combat and basic enemy AI detract from the experience, alongside some finicky climbing mechanics. Despite these flaws, the game’s innovative dungeon design and engaging puzzles create a fulfilling RPG experience that resonates with fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Dungeons of Hinterberg has garnered praise from numerous critics for its engaging blend of mechanics and nostalgic elements. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and But Why Tho?, highlight the game’s modern take on classic 3D Zelda titles, emphasizing the unique puzzles and diverse magical abilities that are tied to specific biomes. Checkpoint Gaming and Gfinity commend the combination of combat, puzzles, and relationship-building, noting that the gameplay is captivating and low-pressure, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Critics like IGN Brasil and Digital Trends appreciate the innovative dungeon designs and the depth of RPG elements, including social link systems that enhance the overall experience. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. A common criticism is the repetitiveness of combat, with Digital Trends and Twinfinite mentioning that the combat can become monotonous and lacks enemy variety. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gamesurf and New Game Network, have highlighted issues with the AI of enemies and the straightforward nature of combat, suggesting that while it serves its purpose, it does not offer much depth. Critics like GameSkinny also noted that climbing mechanics could be finicky, potentially leading to frustration during exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg successfully combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat within a charming RPG framework, appealing to fans of the genre. While there are criticisms regarding combat depth and enemy variety, the clever dungeon design and engaging puzzles have left a positive impression on many reviewers. Critics such as Hobby Consolas and IGN Deutschland recognize the game's potential for enjoyment, particularly through its handcrafted dungeons and social mechanics, indicating that despite its flaws, the game offers a fulfilling experience that resonates with players looking for both nostalgia and innovation.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg wows with its vibrant, comic-book-inspired visuals and charming aesthetic, earning high praise for its artistic design and immersive environments. Critics celebrate its whimsical charm and beautifully crafted dungeons, reminiscent of the Dragon Quest series. However, technical issues like clunky animations and pop-in detract from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the game’s striking visuals and engaging style create a captivating world that players enjoy exploring.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Dungeons of Hinterberg have garnered widespread praise from critics, with many highlighting the game's striking comic-book-inspired aesthetic and vibrant color palette. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Gfinity noted the game’s gorgeous art style, which features a unique comic book effect and bright colors that enhance its whimsical charm. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and PCGamesN emphasized the beautifully designed dungeons and distinct areas that bring the Austrian town of Hinterberg to life, creating an immersive and visually appealing experience. The colorful and stylized line-art aesthetic, reminiscent of the Dragon Quest series, was also praised by COGconnected, further underscoring the game's artistic strengths. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out technical shortcomings, such as clunky animations and issues with clipping and pop-in, as mentioned by New Game Network and Gamesurf. Digital Trends described the characters as toy-like, which some felt detracted from the overall visual quality. Additionally, Hobby Consolas highlighted a weak graphical presentation with texture and animation issues, despite acknowledging the charm of the cel-shaded art style. These criticisms suggest that while the artistic vision is compelling, execution in certain areas may fall short of expectations. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg presents a visually captivating experience that successfully combines vibrant aesthetics with engaging design. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Deutschland and Inverse, appreciated the game's ability to evoke a charming atmosphere through its unique art style and varied environments. Despite some technical flaws, the game's artistic choices resonate positively with players, creating an inviting and memorable world that many find enjoyable to explore. The blend of comic book visuals and cel-shaded graphics has struck a chord, making the visual design one of the standout features of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics are split on the audio of Dungeons of Hinterberg: some praise its beautiful, ambient soundtrack that enhances the cozy atmosphere, while others slam the lackluster sound design and absence of voice acting, calling it "anonymous" and detrimental to immersion. While the game shows potential for a rich auditory experience, major shortcomings in voice and impact leave it wanting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the sound design and music of Dungeons of Hinterberg present a mixed bag of sentiments, with several reviewers highlighting positive aspects of the audio experience. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Digital Spy praised the game's ambient soundtrack, describing it as beautiful and relaxing, which enhances the overall experience and contributes to a cozy atmosphere. TechRadar Gaming also noted the detailed sound design and melodic soundscapes that effectively enhance the atmosphere of different regions within the game, suggesting that there are moments where the audio truly elevates the gameplay experience. Similarly, Pure Xbox emphasized that the music and sound design contribute to the laid-back nature of the game, further supporting the notion that the audio elements can complement exploration and combat. However, a significant number of critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music of Dungeons of Hinterberg. COGconnected and Gamesurf both criticized the lack of voice acting and the overall underwhelming audio design, with Gamesurf describing the sound as "anonymous" and lacking impact. New Game Network echoed these sentiments, lamenting the absence of spoken dialogue and suggesting that it turned the game into a "podcast experience." This sentiment was further reinforced by the call for more variety in enemy designs, indicating that the sound design could have played a crucial role in enhancing the overall immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divide in opinions regarding the sound design and music of Dungeons of Hinterberg. While some reviewers, like But Why Tho? and Digital Spy, appreciated the ambient and relaxing qualities of the soundtrack, others, such as COGconnected and Gamesurf, found the audio experience lacking and detrimental to immersion. This dichotomy suggests that while there are redeeming qualities in the game's audio, significant areas for improvement remain, particularly in voice acting and more impactful sound design. The mixed reviews indicate that while the game has the potential for a rich auditory experience, it ultimately falls short in certain aspects that could enhance player engagement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg shines on PC with stable performance, but suffers from imprecise controls and visual glitches that can disrupt gameplay. The Xbox Series X offers a generally positive experience with fewer bugs, though it faces some control and loading screen issues. Both platforms showcase potential, but technical flaws hold back the overall enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Dungeons of Hinterberg across different gaming platforms, it is evident that the PC version has garnered a mix of positive feedback. Critics like Gamesurf and GGRecon noted that the game generally performs well with stable frame rates, with GGRecon specifically mentioning smooth performance even on the Steam Deck OLED. While COGconnected pointed out issues with imprecise controls, the overall sentiment leans towards a satisfactory experience, particularly in terms of fluidity during gameplay. TechRadar Gaming echoed this sentiment, highlighting overall fluid performance on both PC and Steam Deck, which suggests that the game can deliver a commendable experience when played on these platforms. However, the negatives for the PC version cannot be overlooked. COGconnected and Gfinity highlighted frustrations with sluggish controls and imprecise mechanics, especially during platforming sections, which can detract from puzzle-solving enjoyment. New Game Network raised concerns about visual glitches, including clipping and pop-in issues, which further complicate the experience. Twinfinite also mentioned minor character glitches that affect quality of life, indicating that while the game performs well overall, it is marred by technical inconsistencies that may hinder immersion. On the Xbox Series X, the consensus is more favorable, with critics like GameCritics and Pure Xbox reporting stable performance and no significant bugs. Hobby Consolas acknowledged some clunky movement controls but noted that the introduction of a hoverboard mitigated mobility issues. However, Metro GameCentral pointed out problems with controls and camera angles that could affect gameplay, while SpazioGames criticized frequent loading screens and the absence of voice acting, which detracts from the overall experience. In summary, while both platforms have their strengths, the PC version suffers from more pronounced technical issues compared to the Xbox Series X, which, while stable, still faces some minor criticisms. Overall, critics seem to agree that while Dungeons of Hinterberg has potential, it is hindered by various technical shortcomings that need addressing to enhance player experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg garners mostly positive reviews for its replay value, thanks to cozy gameplay, diverse dungeons, and engaging character interactions. Critics praise its intricate puzzles and social link system as strong incentives for multiple playthroughs. However, concerns arise over its linearity and limited exploration, which may deter some players. While the game appeals to fans of family-friendly ARPGs, its replayability may not satisfy everyone seeking deeper engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Dungeons of Hinterberg is largely positive, with many critics highlighting various aspects that encourage players to return for additional playthroughs. Checkpoint Gaming appreciates the cozy experience and the incentive to replay dungeons for loot and relationship bonuses. Similarly, Digital Trends emphasizes the strong replay value stemming from intricate puzzles and a social link system, while GGRecon notes that the game allows exploration of different powers and abilities across playthroughs. Critics like Gfinity and Noisy Pixel also mention the appeal of exploring different regions and completing optional quests, which adds layers to the gameplay experience. The variety of dungeons and the potential for different character arcs, as noted by Twinfinite and IGN Brasil, further contribute to the game's replayability. However, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value. GameSkinny points out that the climbing mechanic and limited exploration freedom may detract from the overall experience, while Gamesurf mentions the game's linear nature, suggesting that it might not have high replay value for everyone. New Game Network, despite appreciating the gameplay mechanics, does not foresee themselves returning for a repeat run due to perceived weaknesses in combat and relationship-building elements. Additionally, while some critics like TechRadar Gaming and The Indie Informer acknowledge the different difficulty settings and social interactions, others feel that the relationship system may not engage all players equally, as highlighted by IGN Brasil. In summary, while Dungeons of Hinterberg is praised for its replay value through diverse dungeons, character interactions, and various gameplay mechanics, there are notable criticisms regarding its linearity and some gameplay mechanics that may limit replayability for certain players. The consensus among critics reflects a balanced view; many appreciate the incentives for multiple playthroughs, but some express reservations about the depth of engagement in certain systems. Overall, the game seems to cater well to fans of family-friendly ARPGs, offering a cozy and engaging experience, though it may not appeal universally to all players looking for high replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Dungeons of Hinterberg is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique blend of genres and engaging gameplay. CGMagazine describes it as a “wonderful and unexpectedly charming action RPG,” while Checkpoint Gaming highlights its captivating combination of puzzles, combat, and relationship-building, complemented by a “gorgeous aesthetic.” Digital Trends and PCGamesN echo this sentiment, commending the game’s thought-provoking narrative and replay value. Critics like GGRecon and But Why Tho? further elevate the game's status, with GGRecon calling it a “breath of fresh air” and But Why Tho? awarding it a high score of 9/10 for its addicting gameplay and memorable characters. The vibrant visuals and creative mechanics also receive consistent praise, contributing to a satisfying adventure for players. However, several reviewers point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. COGconnected mentions issues with platforming and underwhelming audio design, while GameSkinny notes finicky climbing mechanics and a lack of exploration freedom. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Twinfinite highlight clunky combat and repetitive puzzles as significant drawbacks. IGN Brasil also mentions that while the dungeons and combat shine, the relationship system may not meet the expectations set by similar games, indicating a disparity in the execution of certain gameplay elements. These critiques suggest that while the game has a solid foundation, it is marred by technical and design flaws that affect player immersion. The consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg is a commendable debut from Microbird Games, showcasing a blend of action RPG elements with social simulation that resonates well with players. While the game is celebrated for its charm and creativity, it is also acknowledged that it has room for improvement in combat mechanics and technical execution. Overall, the game is viewed as a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of the genre, with many reviewers encouraging players to try it despite its imperfections. Critics like New Game Network and The Indie Informer encapsulate this sentiment, emphasizing that the game's creativity and heart shine through, making it a captivating experience worth exploring.

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg is largely praised by critics for its unique blend of genres, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, earning accolades like "charming action RPG" and a 9/10 rating for its addictive mechanics. However, it suffers from technical flaws such as clunky combat, platforming issues, and a lack of exploration freedom. While it's a promising debut from Microbird Games, the game has room for improvement but remains a worthwhile experience for genre fans, showcasing creativity and heart.

MONSTER

Reviews

93 reviews found

100

GGRecon

Jul 18, 2024