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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.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses with its unique premise of a lawyer-in-training vacationing in a magical town, blending adventure with themes of capitalism and personal growth. Critics praise its engaging character interactions and relatability, but some note the story's predictability and simplistic good vs. evil framework. While the narrative might lack depth and emotional impact, it effectively combines escapism with contemporary issues. Overall, it’s a whimsical ride that captivates many, despite its narrative shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The story of Dungeons of Hinterberg has been generally well-received by critics, who praise its unique premise and engaging narrative elements. Reviewers like CGMagazine highlight the intriguing concept of a lawyer-in-training, Luisa, vacationing in a magical town filled with dungeons and mysteries. Critics such as Digital Trends and GGRecon commend the game for exploring deeper themes like capitalism, personal growth, and the complexities of the tourism industry, which resonate with players seeking more than just surface-level storytelling. The narrative's focus on character interactions and relationships, as noted by Gfinity and Noisy Pixel, adds a layer of depth that enhances the overall experience, making the protagonist's journey relatable and engaging. However, the story is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers, like COGconnected and Gamesurf, argue that the narrative feels thin and lacks depth, often resorting to a simplistic good vs. evil framework. Critics such as RPG Site and Twinfinite mention that while the overarching narrative serves its purpose, it tends to be predictable and lacks emotional impact. Additionally, PlayStation Universe points out that the narrative is not the primary focus of the game, suggesting that character interactions overshadow the story itself, which may leave some players wanting a more robust plot. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg offers an engaging and whimsical narrative, albeit with some shortcomings in depth and predictability. The game successfully combines elements of escapism and personal growth, with many reviewers noting the relatability of Luisa's character and her journey. Critics like Digital Spy and Inverse appreciate the exploration of contemporary issues within a magical setting, while others feel that the story could benefit from a more intricate narrative structure. Ultimately, Dungeons of Hinterberg presents a charming blend of adventure and character-driven storytelling that appeals to a wide audience, despite its narrative flaws.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg captivates with its innovative blend of exploration, puzzles, and combat, drawing comparisons to classic 3D Zelda games. Critics praise its dungeon designs and social simulation elements that deepen gameplay. However, the combat is criticized for being repetitive and lacking variety, while finicky climbing mechanics can disrupt exploration. Overall, it’s a charming adventure that balances enjoyment with notable flaws, appealing to fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay 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 gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Dungeons of Hinterberg has been praised by numerous critics for its engaging blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat mechanics. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming, highlight the game’s modern take on classic 3D Zelda titles, emphasizing its unique puzzles and captivating dungeon designs. Critics like Gfinity and IGN Brasil appreciate the incorporation of social simulation elements alongside dungeon crawling, which adds depth to the gameplay experience. The variety of spells and magical abilities, as noted by Digital Trends and GGRecon, also contributes to a satisfying combat system that encourages players to experiment and strategize as they navigate through diverse dungeons. Despite the overall positive reception, several reviewers have pointed out notable weaknesses in the gameplay. A recurring criticism is the combat system, which some, including Digital Trends and New Game Network, describe as repetitive and lacking in enemy variety. Critics like Gamesurf and Twinfinite echo this sentiment, stating that while the combat mechanics are straightforward and functional, they do not offer the depth that players might expect from an action RPG. Additionally, the climbing mechanics have been described as finicky by GameSkinny, potentially hindering the exploration experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg successfully merges various gameplay elements, creating an enjoyable experience that appeals to fans of both dungeon-crawling and social simulation genres. While the game excels in its innovative dungeon designs and engaging puzzles, the repetitive nature of combat and limited enemy variety are consistent drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Critics like PCGamesN and Hobby Consolas emphasize the game's charm and potential, suggesting that while it may not be perfect, it offers a fulfilling adventure for players willing to embrace its unique blend of mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg shines with its vibrant, comic-book-inspired visuals, praised for bringing the town of Hinterberg to life and creating an engaging exploration experience. Critics applaud its artistic charm but note technical flaws like toy-like characters and animation issues that disrupt immersion. Despite these setbacks, the game's imaginative aesthetics leave a positive impact, making it a standout in graphics and design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Dungeons of Hinterberg is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and imaginative aesthetic. CGMagazine highlights the game's "striking comic-book-inspired aesthetic," while Checkpoint Gaming appreciates the "gorgeous visual aesthetic" that brings the Austrian town of Hinterberg to life. Critics like Gfinity and GGRecon note the unique comic book effect and the captivating art style that enhances the game's charm. The colorful environments and diverse biomes, as mentioned by Noisy Pixel and PCGamesN, contribute to a visually engaging exploration experience, making the game feel alive and inviting. The combination of cel-shaded graphics and distinct regional designs, as noted by IGN Deutschland and Inverse, further solidifies the game's artistic appeal. However, some critics have pointed out technical shortcomings that detract from the overall visual experience. Digital Trends describes the characters as "toy-like," which may clash with the otherwise vibrant scenery. Critics like New Game Network and Hobby Consolas mention issues such as clipping, pop-in problems, and simplistic enemy designs that can disrupt immersion. Additionally, while the game features a unique art style, some reviewers, including SpazioGames and Gamesurf, have noted that clunky animations and limited visual polish can hinder the experience, creating a contrast between the game's artistic ambition and its execution. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that Dungeons of Hinterberg successfully delivers a visually captivating experience that resonates with players. The majority of critics, including those from RPG Site and TechRadar Gaming, commend the game's colorful and imaginative art direction, which enhances exploration and immersion. While some technical flaws are acknowledged, they do not overshadow the game's overall charm and creativity. The vibrant visuals and distinctive style have left a positive impression, making Dungeons of Hinterberg a noteworthy title in terms of graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg receives mixed reviews for its sound design and music. Critics praise its beautiful ambient soundtrack for enhancing the game's relaxing atmosphere, but many highlight significant shortcomings, like the absence of voice acting and lackluster audio design. While the music creates a soothing vibe, the overall audio experience is criticized for being underwhelming and diminishing immersion, indicating a need for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

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

The sound design and music of Dungeons of Hinterberg have garnered a mix of positive feedback from several critics, particularly regarding the ambient soundtrack and its contribution to the game's atmosphere. Critics like But Why Tho? and Digital Spy praised the beautiful and relaxing music, noting that it enhances the overall experience and complements the visual design of the game. The ambient pop score highlighted by Twinfinite was also recognized for its ability to create a soothing atmosphere, which aligns well with the game's laid-back nature. TechRadar Gaming added to this positive sentiment by describing the detailed sound design and melodic soundscapes that enrich the various regions and encounters, suggesting that there are elements of the audio that successfully elevate the gaming experience. However, a significant number of critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. COGconnected and Gamesurf both criticized the lack of voice acting and the underwhelming audio design, with Gamesurf specifically referring to the sound design as "anonymous" and lacking impact. New Game Network echoed this sentiment, describing the soundtrack as middling and commenting on the absence of spoken dialogue, which they felt turned the game into more of a "podcast experience." The consensus among these critics indicates that the absence of voiceovers and a more dynamic audio experience detracts from the overall immersion and engagement in the game. Overall, the critics present a divided sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Dungeons of Hinterberg. While some reviewers, like But Why Tho? and Digital Spy, celebrate the ambient and relaxing qualities of the music, others, including COGconnected and Gamesurf, highlight significant deficiencies in the audio experience, particularly the lack of voice acting and impactful sound design. This contrast suggests that while the game succeeds in creating a soothing atmosphere, it ultimately falls short in delivering a fully immersive auditory experience, leaving room for improvement in future updates or sequels.

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg shows solid technical performance on PC and Xbox Series X, praised for stable frame rates and good optimization, but suffers from frustrating control issues, visual glitches, and frequent loading screens across all platforms. Critics note the need for refinement to enhance gameplay and overall experience, particularly on PS5 where framerate drops and freezes occur. The game has potential but needs significant improvements to fully deliver.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Dungeons of Hinterberg varies across platforms, with some positive notes from critics. On PC, several reviewers, including Gamesurf and GGRecon, praised the game for its generally stable frame rate, with GGRecon specifically noting that it runs smoothly even on the Steam Deck OLED. This indicates that the game has been optimized well for PC, allowing for a satisfactory gaming experience. On Xbox Series X, critics like Pure Xbox highlighted the game's overall stability, with only minor performance hiccups reported. Additionally, Hobby Consolas mentioned that while the movement controls felt clunky, the addition of a hoverboard improved mobility, showcasing a positive design choice that enhances gameplay. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out across platforms. On PC, COGconnected and Gfinity expressed frustration with janky controls, particularly during platforming sections, which can hinder puzzle-solving. New Game Network also raised concerns about visual technical issues, such as clipping and pop-in problems, which detract from immersion. On Xbox Series X, Metro GameCentral noted issues with controls and camera angles that affected gameplay, while SpazioGames commented on frequent loading screens and the absence of voice acting, which impacted the overall experience. On PS5, Push Square reported framerate drops and occasional screen freezes, which detracted from the visual appeal of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Dungeons of Hinterberg has moments of solid performance, particularly on PC and Xbox Series X, it is marred by various technical issues that affect gameplay across all platforms. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Pure Xbox acknowledged that while performance is generally stable, there are still minor issues that can frustrate players. The recurring themes of control sluggishness, visual glitches, and loading problems suggest that the developers may need to address these aspects to enhance the overall experience. As it stands, the game shows promise but requires further refinement to reach its full potential across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg garners mostly positive feedback for its replay value, thanks to its cozy atmosphere, evolving relationships, and diverse dungeons. Critics praise the intricate puzzles and adjustable difficulty that enhance replayability. However, some note the game's linearity and repetitive mechanics could hinder multiple playthroughs. Overall, while concerns exist, the game’s variety and character depth are deemed sufficient to keep players coming back for more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Dungeons of Hinterberg are largely positive, highlighting various elements that encourage players to return for additional playthroughs. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Trends emphasize the game's cozy atmosphere and strong replay incentives through evolving relationships, intricate puzzles, and multiple story arcs. Additionally, the variety of dungeons and social interactions noted by COGconnected and GGRecon further contributes to the appeal of replaying the game, as players can explore different powers and abilities, enhancing their overall experience. Many reviewers, like TechRadar Gaming and The Indie Informer, also appreciate the adjustable difficulty settings and character interactions that provide fresh gameplay experiences with each run. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Some reviewers, such as Gamesurf and PlayStation Universe, point out that the linear structure and certain design choices may limit the overall incentive to replay the game. While the game offers a respectable length and encourages exploration, the lack of exploration freedom and the potential repetitiveness of certain mechanics, as mentioned by GameSkinny, could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Additionally, New Game Network expresses skepticism about returning for a repeat run due to perceived shortcomings in combat and relationship-building fundamentals, which could impact the overall replay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg provides a solid foundation for replayability through its engaging mechanics, diverse dungeons, and character interactions. While there are concerns about linearity and certain gameplay elements that may hinder replay value—highlighted by critics like Gamesurf and PlayStation Universe—the majority of reviewers agree that the game offers enough variety and depth to warrant multiple playthroughs. Critics like Digital Spy and GameCritics underline the importance of relationship systems and character development, suggesting that these features could keep players invested in the game world. Ultimately, while some players may find limitations in replay value, many others will likely appreciate the opportunities for exploration and character growth that the game presents.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Dungeons of Hinterberg is largely positive, with many critics praising its unique blend of gameplay elements and charming aesthetics. CGMagazine describes it as a "wonderful and unexpectedly charming action RPG," suggesting that it resonates well with fans of the genre. Checkpoint Gaming highlights the game's clever combination of puzzles, combat, and relationship-building, emphasizing its captivating nature and gorgeous visuals. Critics like GGRecon and But Why Tho? further bolster this sentiment, with GGRecon calling it a "breath of fresh air" and But Why Tho? awarding it a high score of 9/10, praising its addicting gameplay and engaging narrative. The game's vibrant visuals and thought-provoking story are recurrent themes, with many reviewers noting its high replay value and overall enjoyable experience. However, the game is not without its flaws, which several critics have pointed out. COGconnected mentions issues with platforming, forced social elements, and underwhelming audio design, while GameSkinny notes finicky climbing mechanics and a lack of exploration freedom. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Twinfinite also highlight shortcomings in combat, with TechRadar mentioning clunky combat and repetitive puzzles. These criticisms suggest that while the game excels in many areas, it struggles with certain technical aspects and gameplay balance, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. The consensus among critics indicates that Dungeons of Hinterberg is a strong debut for Microbird Games, offering a refreshing and enjoyable experience that combines various gameplay genres. While there are notable flaws, such as combat and control issues, the game's charm, creativity, and engaging narrative seem to outweigh these shortcomings for most reviewers. Critics like Digital Trends and New Game Network emphasize the game's creativity and heart, suggesting that it provides a satisfying adventure despite its imperfections. Overall, Dungeons of Hinterberg appears to be a worthwhile experience for players who appreciate its unique blend of action RPG elements and social simulation, making it a title that should not be overlooked.

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses with its charming blend of action RPG gameplay, puzzles, and relationship-building, earning praise from critics like CGMagazine and But Why Tho? for its vibrant visuals and engaging narrative. However, it faces criticism for platforming issues, clunky combat, and repetitive puzzles. Despite these flaws, the game is seen as a strong debut for Microbird Games, offering a refreshing experience that balances charm and creativity, making it a must-try for genre enthusiasts.

MONSTER

Reviews

94 reviews found

100

GGRecon

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg is praised as sensational, offering a fun gameplay loop and a refreshing narrative experience. It is described as a breath of fresh air and a strong contender for one of the best games of 2024.

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But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Jul 26, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg is praised as a fantastic adventure with addicting gameplay, an engaging narrative, and a memorable cast of characters, earning a high score of 9/10.

Loot Level Chill

Mar 21, 2025

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg is a captivating game that combines beautiful visuals, engaging gameplay, and a meaningful story, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Jul 18, 2024

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Dungeons of Hinterberg cleverly combines puzzles, combat, and relationship-building into a captivating indie game with memorable moments and a gorgeous aesthetic.

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PCGamesN

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg is highly praised for its captivating story, engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and replay value, making it a journey that is both satisfying and worth revisiting.

Digital Trends

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a thought-provoking and engaging experience with a unique narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, and high replay value, despite some combat and visual design shortcomings.

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Twinfinite

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a unique and refreshing holiday experience despite its predictable story, repetitive combat, and minor technical issues.

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Gfinity

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a fresh take on social action RPG gameplay, blending genres effectively and delivering a novel experience. Despite some limitations in town activities and control sluggishness, the game largely fulfills its potential.

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The Indie Informer

Jul 18, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg provides a captivating experience with engaging gameplay, a thought-provoking story, and vibrant visuals, offering a satisfying adventure for players.

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GameCritics

Xbox Series X

Sep 19, 2024

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

Dungeons of Hinterberg is praised for its gameplay, story, relationship system, and thoughtful design, offering a holistic and resonant experience. The review gives it a rating of 8.5 out of 10.

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