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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.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses critics with its unique premise and character-driven story of Luisa, a lawyer exploring a magical village, tackling themes of personal growth and tourism. However, many find the narrative predictable and emotionally shallow, comparing it to a thin layer over standard ARPG gameplay. While the blend of light-hearted adventure and deeper themes is praised, the lack of depth leaves some players wanting more, making it a solid but imperfect experience for those seeking immersive storytelling.

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 garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its unique premise and character-driven narrative. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and IGN Brasil, highlight the engaging journey of Luisa, a lawyer seeking a break from her demanding life, as she navigates a magical village filled with dungeons and mysteries. Critics like Digital Trends and Gfinity commend the game for its exploration of deeper themes, such as personal growth, capitalism, and the complexities of the tourism industry, which resonate with players. The narrative's blend of light-hearted escapism and serious undertones, as noted by But Why Tho? and Digital Spy, adds depth to the overall experience, making it relatable to a wide audience. However, several critics point out significant shortcomings in the story's execution. COGconnected and Gamesurf express concerns about the narrative being a "thin veneer" over standard ARPG gameplay, lacking depth and nuance. Critics like RPG Site and Twinfinite mention that while the story serves its purpose, it is predictable and does not evoke strong emotional responses. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GameSkinny and PlayStation Universe, suggest that the narrative is secondary to gameplay mechanics and character interactions, which may leave players wanting more from the story itself. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg presents an intriguing narrative with a mix of light-hearted adventure and deeper themes, though it struggles with predictability and a lack of emotional weight. The character of Luisa serves as a relatable protagonist, navigating the complexities of her life while engaging with the magical elements of Hinterberg. While some critics, such as PCGamesN and TechRadar Gaming, appreciate the engaging narrative and character interactions, others argue that the story could benefit from more depth and emotional resonance. This blend of opinions suggests that while the game has a solid foundation, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a deeply immersive narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses with its engaging mix of exploration, puzzles, and combat, drawing praise for its modern twist on classic RPGs like Zelda. Critics love the innovative dungeon design and character interactions, but the combat is criticized for being repetitive and lacking depth. Overall, it’s a solid choice for action RPG fans seeking a nostalgic yet fresh gaming experience, despite some gameplay limitations.

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 received generally positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat mechanics. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and IGN Brasil, appreciate the game’s modern take on classic titles like The Legend of Zelda, with CGMagazine noting unique puzzles and magic abilities tied to specific biomes. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Gfinity emphasize the captivating nature of the gameplay, praising its combination of puzzles, combat, and relationship-building in a low-pressure environment. The game’s dungeon design has been described as innovative, with Digital Trends and Hobby Consolas noting the clever mechanics and well-crafted environments that enhance the overall experience. Additionally, the inclusion of RPG elements and character interactions adds depth, as highlighted by Noisy Pixel and TechRadar Gaming. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. A recurring theme is the combat system, which many reviewers, including Digital Trends and Twinfinite, describe as repetitive and lacking in enemy variety. Critics like Gamesurf and New Game Network also mention that while the combat is straightforward, it lacks depth, with some reviewers noting poor enemy AI that detracts from the challenge. Furthermore, although the game features a mix of mechanics, some critics, such as IGN Deutschland and SpazioGames, feel that the gameplay structure can limit player choices, making certain aspects feel simplistic or routine. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of action RPGs and puzzle games. While there are criticisms regarding combat depth and enemy variety, the game’s strengths lie in its engaging dungeon design, clever puzzles, and the integration of social mechanics, as noted by critics like GGRecon and Metro GameCentral. The blend of exploration and character interactions provides a satisfying experience, making it a worthwhile title for players seeking a nostalgic yet fresh adventure in a modern gaming landscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg wows with its vibrant, comic-book-inspired visuals, drawing praise for its engaging aesthetic and charming environments. Critics highlight its unique style as a strength, enhancing the light-hearted gameplay. However, technical flaws like texture issues and character design divides opinion, suggesting room for improvement. Overall, the game's artistic vision shines, making it a visually captivating experience despite some execution shortcomings.

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 graphics and visual design of Dungeons of Hinterberg have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its striking aesthetic and vibrant environments. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Gfinity highlighted the game's comic-book-inspired art style, which effectively brings the charming Austrian town of Hinterberg to life. Critics from Checkpoint Gaming and PCGamesN echoed this sentiment, noting the beautiful designs of dungeons and distinct regions that enhance the exploration experience. The colorful and stylized visuals, reminiscent of pop art and the Dragon Quest series, were frequently mentioned as a key strength, with GameSkinny and GGRecon emphasizing how these elements contribute to the game’s light-hearted tone and engaging gameplay. However, not all feedback was entirely favorable, as some critics pointed out technical shortcomings that detracted from the overall visual experience. Hobby Consolas and SpazioGames noted issues with textures, animations, and occasional pop-in effects, suggesting that while the cel-shaded art style is visually appealing, it is marred by a lack of polish in certain areas. Digital Trends mentioned that the toy-like appearance of characters might not resonate well with all players, indicating a divide in how the visuals are perceived. These critiques suggest that while the artistic direction is commendable, the execution may leave some players wanting more in terms of technical refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg excels in its artistic vision and vibrant visual design, creating an inviting and engaging world for players. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's unique style, with critics like TechRadar Gaming and Loot Level Chill celebrating the dreamlike and painterly elements that enhance immersion. Despite some noted technical flaws, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers agreeing that the game's graphics contribute significantly to its charm and appeal, making it a visually rewarding experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg features a split reception for its sound design and music. Critics praised the ambient soundtrack for its beauty and immersive qualities, enhancing gameplay, while others slammed the lack of voice acting and impactful sound effects, calling the audio "anonymous" and detracting from engagement. The game succeeds in creating a relaxing atmosphere but falters in delivering a fully engaging audio experience, leaving players divided on its effectiveness.

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 received a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting positive aspects that contribute to the game's atmosphere. Critics from But Why Tho? and Digital Spy praised the ambient soundtrack, describing it as beautiful and relaxing, which enhances the overall experience and complements the visual design. TechRadar Gaming also noted the detailed sound design and melodic soundscapes that enrich the atmosphere across different regions, suggesting that the audio elements can effectively enhance immersion during gameplay. Furthermore, Pure Xbox emphasized how the music and sound design align with the laid-back nature of the game, aiding both exploration and combat experiences. However, a significant number of critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's audio experience. COGconnected and Gamesurf criticized the lack of voice acting and impactful sound effects, with the latter describing the sound design as "anonymous" and failing to elevate the gaming experience. New Game Network echoed this sentiment, stating that the absence of spoken dialogue transformed the game into a "podcast experience," which detracted from the overall engagement. This perspective was further reinforced by the observation that a greater variety in enemy designs could have enriched the sound experience, indicating that the audio elements felt somewhat limited. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divide in the perception of Dungeons of Hinterberg's sound design and music. While some reviewers like But Why Tho? and Digital Spy appreciated the calming and immersive qualities of the soundtrack, others, including COGconnected and Gamesurf, found the audio elements lacking in variety and impact. This dichotomy suggests that while the game succeeds in creating a relaxing atmosphere through its music, it falls short in delivering a fully engaging audio experience due to the absence of voice acting and dynamic sound effects. As a result, the sound design and music may resonate differently with players, depending on their expectations and the significance they place on audio in gaming.

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 strong performance on PC and Steam Deck, earning praise for stability, but faces criticism for janky controls and visual glitches. Xbox Series X struggles with camera issues and loading screens, while PS5 suffers from framerate drops. Despite a solid foundation, the game needs optimization to improve gameplay and user experience.

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 has garnered a mix of responses from critics across various gaming platforms. On PC, several reviewers noted that the game generally performs well, with a stable frame rate being highlighted by Gamesurf and GGRecon, who also mentioned that it runs smoothly on the Steam Deck OLED. The overall fluid performance was echoed by TechRadar Gaming, suggesting that the game is capable of delivering an enjoyable experience despite some minor hiccups. The ability to play the game on different hardware, including the Steam Deck, adds to its accessibility and appeal. However, the negatives for each platform reveal a more complex picture. On PC, COGconnected pointed out janky and imprecise controls, particularly during platforming sections, which can hinder gameplay. Gfinity also noted occasional sluggishness in controls, while New Game Network highlighted technical issues with visuals, such as clipping and pop-in problems. On the Xbox Series X, critics like Metro GameCentral reported issues with controls and camera angles, which detract from the overall experience, while SpazioGames mentioned frequent loading screens and the absence of voice acting as detrimental to technical performance. On PS5, Push Square criticized the game for framerate drops and occasional screen freezes, which can significantly disrupt immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Dungeons of Hinterberg has a solid foundation with stable performance on PC and Xbox Series X, it is marred by various technical issues that affect gameplay and user experience. The criticisms regarding controls, visual glitches, and performance inconsistencies suggest that the game may require further optimization to reach its full potential. Critics like Gfinity and Pure Xbox have noted that while the game runs well, the presence of minor issues can still impact enjoyment. In conclusion, while there are positive aspects to the technical performance across platforms, the negatives highlight a need for improvements to enhance the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg boasts strong replay value fueled by evolving relationships, intricate puzzles, and diverse dungeons, enticing players to return. Critics praise social interactions and character development as major draws, while adjustable difficulty adds to engagement. However, concerns about its linear structure and limited exploration may dampen the experience, with some reviewers citing a lack of depth in combat and activities as potential deterrents. Overall, the game offers enticing replayability, but its limitations may not satisfy all players.

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 predominantly positive, highlighting various elements that encourage players to return for additional playthroughs. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Trends emphasize the game's ability to foster replayability through evolving relationships and intricate puzzles, respectively. The social interactions and character-building aspects are frequently noted as significant motivators for revisiting the game, with Gfinity and TechRadar Gaming pointing out the potential for players to explore different regions and improve relationships, which can unlock new skills and combat abilities. Additionally, the variety of dungeons and the adjustable difficulty levels mentioned by GameSkinny and IGN Deutschland provide players with multiple avenues to engage with the game, enhancing its replay value. On the flip side, several critics express concerns about the game's linear structure and limitations in exploration, which may hinder replayability. For instance, Gamesurf points out that while the game encourages exploration, its linear nature could deter players from returning once they have completed the main objectives. Similarly, PlayStation Universe notes that daily activity restrictions and a lack of diverse activities in town could limit the incentive for players to revisit the game. Critics like New Game Network also mention that while the game offers a solid experience, the lack of fundamental depth in combat and relationship-building may prevent them from wanting to replay it. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a variety of engaging elements that can encourage replayability, certain structural limitations may dampen the overall experience for some players. Many reviewers, such as GGRecon and Twinfinite, appreciate the multiple paths and character arcs available, suggesting that there is enough content to warrant multiple playthroughs. However, the concerns raised about linearity and the depth of gameplay mechanics indicate that while the game has strong replay potential, it may not be universally appealing to all players seeking extensive replay value.

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 charming blend of action RPG elements, engaging narrative, and beautiful visuals. CGMagazine describes it as a "wonderful and unexpectedly charming action RPG," while Checkpoint Gaming highlights its clever combination of puzzles, combat, and relationship-building, calling it a "captivating indie game." Critics like Digital Trends and PCGamesN commend the game for its thought-provoking narrative and replay value, emphasizing the innovative gameplay mechanics that make the experience enjoyable. The game's aesthetic appeal is frequently noted, with reviewers such as IGN Brasil and The Indie Informer celebrating its vibrant visuals and immersive atmosphere, contributing to a captivating adventure that many players find delightful. However, despite the numerous strengths, several critics point out significant flaws that detract from the overall experience. COGconnected mentions issues with platforming and combat arenas that feel underwhelming, while TechRadar Gaming criticizes the clunky combat and repetitive puzzles. Critics like GameSkinny and Gfinity also note limitations in town activities and control sluggishness, suggesting that these shortcomings may hinder the game's potential. Additionally, IGN Brasil remarks that while the dungeons and combat shine, the relationship system may not meet the high expectations set by other RPGs like Persona, indicating a disparity in the game's execution of its ambitious concepts. The overall consensus among critics is that Dungeons of Hinterberg is a commendable debut for Microbird Games, offering a unique and engaging experience that successfully blends various gameplay elements. While there are notable criticisms regarding combat mechanics and technical aspects, the charm, creativity, and heart of the game resonate with many players. Reviewers such as GGRecon and But Why Tho? laud it as a strong contender for one of the best games of 2024, reflecting a general appreciation for its innovative approach and enjoyable gameplay loop. Ultimately, Dungeons of Hinterberg is viewed as a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre, despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

Dungeons of Hinterberg impresses with its charming action RPG blend, engaging story, and stunning visuals, earning praise as a captivating indie title. Critics highlight its replay value and innovative gameplay, but note significant flaws like clunky combat and underwhelming platforming that dampen the experience. Overall, it’s a strong debut from Microbird Games, celebrated for its creativity and heart, making it a worthy play for genre fans despite some shortcomings.

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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Loot Level Chill

PlayStation 5

Mar 24, 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.

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.

Checkpoint Gaming

Jul 18, 2024

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

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.

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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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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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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