Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Earth Defense Force 6

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Earth Defense Force 6
Item: Earth Defense Force 6
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAction, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Single Player

AvailableJul 25, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5

DeveloperSandlot

Overview

Earth Defense Force 6 is the sixth main entry in the Earth Defense Force series and the direct sequel to Earth Defense Force 5, picking up three years after that game left off. EDF 6 is set on a dying Earth where the alien Primer civilization invades once again.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6's story divides critics—some praise its engaging, campy charm and time travel twists, while others slam its execution as convoluted and poorly written. Despite the fun, B-movie vibes, issues like awkward dialogue and messy continuity may frustrate newcomers. Overall, it’s a mixed bag of entertaining moments and significant flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Earth Defense Force 6 has garnered a variety of opinions from critics, with some praising its engaging narrative elements and unique campy charm. Cubed3 highlights the darker and more involved story compared to its predecessors, suggesting that it adds depth to the series. Shacknews also finds the narrative compelling, particularly appreciating the time travel elements that influence gameplay. Twinfinite echoes this sentiment, stating that the plot exceeds expectations by providing backstory and revisiting missions from the previous installment. Moreover, PlayStation LifeStyle notes the humor in the nihilistic dialogue, which contributes to the B-movie aesthetic that many find appealing. On the flip side, several critics point out significant flaws in the story's execution. Digitally Downloaded describes the narrative as filled with kitschy homages that, while entertaining, do not require close attention to enjoy the game. GameSpew mentions the ridiculousness of the story, particularly the time travel aspects, which seem to add confusion rather than clarity. KeenGamer and Metro GameCentral both emphasize the lack of proper cutscenes and the clumsiness of the dialogue, suggesting that these elements detract from the overall experience. Siliconera criticizes the writing as melodramatic and cliché-ridden, indicating that while it may be intended as comedy, it often falls flat. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Earth Defense Force 6's story is filled with campy charm and entertaining elements, it is also marred by poor execution and a convoluted plot. Many reviewers, such as PlayStation Country and Push Square, note the complexity of the franchise's continuity and the messy narrative structure, which may alienate newcomers to the series. Despite these criticisms, there is a shared appreciation for the game's fun and lighthearted approach to storytelling, with some critics like Shacknews and Twinfinite recognizing the potential for enjoyment, particularly for fans of the series. Ultimately, the story of Earth Defense Force 6 seems to be a mixed bag, offering both engaging moments and significant shortcomings.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6 impresses with its chaotic gameplay, diverse classes, and co-op action, winning praise for its engaging mechanics and fast-paced fun. However, critics highlight issues like repetitive missions and lack of variety, suggesting the experience can become monotonous. Overall, it’s a solid entry for fans, delivering satisfying shooting action despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Earth Defense Force 6 has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and chaotic nature. Reviewers such as Cubed3 and Digitally Downloaded praised the game for its core mechanics, which revolve around selecting powerful weapons, battling oversized aliens, and collecting loot in destructible environments. The inclusion of four distinct classes, as noted by multiple critics including Hey Poor Player and Shacknews, encourages experimentation and caters to different playstyles, enhancing both single-player and co-op experiences. The game’s fast-paced, frenetic action, as described by TheSixthAxis, adds to its addictive quality, making it enjoyable to shoot hordes of enemies while utilizing a variety of weapons and vehicles. However, several critiques point to notable shortcomings in the gameplay experience. GamingBolt mentioned a lack of mission variety and mid-mission checkpoints, which can detract from the overall enjoyment, while PlayStation Country highlighted the repetitive and grindy nature of the experience stretched across 147 levels. Siliconera criticized the gameplay for its frustrating mechanics and bland mission design, suggesting that despite the variety of classes and enemies, the core experience may not be particularly compelling. This sentiment is echoed by some critics who feel that while the game is fun, it can become monotonous over time, as noted by Hey Poor Player. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Earth Defense Force 6 successfully maintains the series' signature chaotic gameplay while introducing new elements that enhance the experience. While the game excels in providing a satisfying shooting experience with diverse classes and cooperative play, it is marred by issues of repetition and mission design that could hinder long-term engagement. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square appreciate the familiar EDF gameplay loop and the enjoyment of co-op play, suggesting that while the game has its flaws, it remains a solid entry for fans of the series looking for action-packed fun.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6's graphics are polarizing. While some praise its flashy visuals, destructible environments, and RPG elements, many critics slam it for outdated graphics and bugs reminiscent of last-gen consoles. The game's charm and chaotic gameplay shine through, but a significant consensus calls for major graphical upgrades in the future.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the graphics and visual design of Earth Defense Force 6 present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting notable strengths. Cubed3 praises the "flashy and crazy visuals," emphasizing the game's dynamic RPG elements and diverse weapon classes that contribute to an engaging visual experience. Similarly, GamingBolt points out the impressive destructible environments and the ability to handle large enemy swarms, particularly at 4K resolution, which enhances the visual experience on current-gen consoles. Additionally, GameSpew notes the availability of multiple graphical options, suggesting that players can tailor their experience to their preferences, particularly enjoying the performance at higher resolutions. TheSixthAxis also acknowledges the B-movie-inspired aesthetic that the franchise is known for, suggesting that the game retains its charm despite graphical shortcomings. Conversely, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the overall visual quality of Earth Defense Force 6. Digitally Downloaded argues that while the game effectively depicts large swarms of enemies, the visuals are "messy and archaic," indicating a need for a new engine and updated art assets. Metro GameCentral criticizes the graphics for resembling Xbox 360 quality, noting the presence of bugs and glitches that detract from the experience. Hey Poor Player and Siliconera echo these sentiments, with both reviewers describing the visuals as outdated, reminiscent of earlier console generations, and lacking coherence and visual interest. PlayStation LifeStyle highlights issues with rough visuals and bugs, suggesting that the game prioritizes fun over high production values, which is a recurring theme among the criticisms. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Earth Defense Force 6 offers some enjoyable visual elements, particularly in terms of gameplay and chaotic action, it suffers from significant graphical shortcomings. Many reviewers, such as Push Square and Shacknews, agree that the game sacrifices graphical fidelity for the sake of its frenetic gameplay, resulting in visuals that often feel outdated and low-budget. The general sentiment leans towards disappointment in the visual design, with several critics calling for improvements in future iterations. Despite these criticisms, there remains a recognition of the series' charm and the fun derived from its gameplay, indicating that while the graphics may not meet modern standards, the core experience still resonates with fans.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6's voice acting is a double-edged sword. Some critics praise its quirky charm and depth, enhancing the B-movie narrative, while others slam it as cheesy and clumsy, detracting from the experience. This divide showcases the voice acting's mixed impact—charming for some, grating for others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Earth Defense Force 6 has garnered a mix of praise for its unique contribution to the game's overall atmosphere. Critics like Cubed3 highlight how the soldiers' dialogues add depth to the narrative, infusing moments of desperation and reflection that enhance the story's engagement. Similarly, PlayStation LifeStyle appreciates the dialogue-driven elements, noting the charm in the soldiers' absurd questioning of their dire circumstances against giant insects and robots. This perspective suggests that the voice acting serves a purpose beyond mere entertainment, contributing to a captivating narrative experience that aligns well with the game's B-movie aesthetic. On the flip side, several reviewers express dissatisfaction with the quality of the voice acting, labeling it as campy, cheesy, and even clumsy. GamingBolt and Metro GameCentral both acknowledge the amusingly bad dialogue, yet this sentiment is not universally embraced. PlayStation Country points out that the silly dialogue can grate on players, detracting from their overall enjoyment of the game. Siliconera's critique of the voice acting as stilted and inhuman further emphasizes the disconnect some players feel regarding the characters' backstories, suggesting that while the intention may be to evoke a B-movie vibe, the execution can sometimes fall flat. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Earth Defense Force 6. While some, like Cubed3 and PlayStation LifeStyle, find value in the charm and depth it adds to the narrative, others, such as PlayStation Country and Siliconera, feel that the execution can detract from the gaming experience. This dichotomy indicates that the voice acting, while intentionally designed to fit a certain aesthetic, may not resonate equally with all players, leading to a mixed reception that highlights both its strengths and weaknesses.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6 on PS5 garners mixed reviews: praised for smooth performance and quick load times, but plagued by frame rate drops, glitches, and UI issues during chaotic gameplay. Critics stress that while it shows potential, significant technical shortcomings could dampen the player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The technical performance of Earth Defense Force 6 has garnered a range of opinions from critics, particularly regarding its performance on the PS5 platform. Several reviewers noted positive aspects, highlighting that the game runs well overall. For instance, GamingBolt praised the improved performance and fidelity on PS5, PS4, and PC, while Hey Poor Player reported a smooth 60 frames per second, with quick load times and an autosave feature enhancing the overall experience. Push Square echoed this sentiment, stating that the game runs smoothly with minimal frame drops, even in 4K performance mode. TheSixthAxis also commended the improved vehicle controls and player movement, contributing to a stable and enjoyable experience. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out regarding the technical performance. GameSpew and PlayStation Country both mentioned frame rate issues, particularly during chaotic encounters or denser levels, which can detract from the overall experience. Metro GameCentral highlighted bugs and glitches, suggesting that while these issues could be attributed to a lower budget, they are still concerning in a full-priced game. Additionally, GamingBolt pointed out some UI issues, such as interruptions caused by the sprint camera and chat box, which could hinder gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the technical performance of Earth Defense Force 6 on the PS5. While many praised the game's smooth performance and quick load times, significant concerns about frame rate drops, bugs, and UI issues persist. Critics like Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country emphasized that these technical shortcomings could impact players' enjoyment, especially during more intense gameplay moments. As a result, while the game shows promise in terms of performance, it also leaves room for improvement in addressing these technical flaws across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Earth Defense Force 6 mostly scores high on replay value thanks to its vast content (147 missions & DLC) and fun multiplayer options that encourage teamwork. Critics praise the variety of classes and weapon customization. However, concerns about mission repetitiveness and a lack of new content could dampen long-term appeal for some players. While series fans may enjoy it, newcomers seeking innovation might be left wanting. Overall, it’s a blast in multiplayer but may not keep everyone coming back.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Earth Defense Force 6 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its extensive content and engaging multiplayer features. Critics like KeenGamer highlight the impressive array of 147 missions and additional DLC, suggesting that players can enjoy hundreds of hours of gameplay. The multiplayer aspect is frequently mentioned as a significant draw, with Digitally Downloaded noting that it encourages coordination and chaos, while Shacknews emphasizes the fun experience of playing with friends. The variety of classes and weapons also contributes to the replayability, with PlayStation LifeStyle pointing out the depth in weapon unlocks and class customization, which can significantly extend playtime. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Several reviewers, including GamingBolt and PlayStation Country, express concerns about the lack of mission variety and significant new content, which may deter players from returning after completing the campaign. Metro GameCentral also mentions that while the game has a large amount of content, the absence of new ideas and character classes could limit its long-term appeal. Additionally, Cubed3 notes that the game may feel too similar to its predecessor for some players, which could affect the excitement of replaying it. In summary, while the critics generally agree that Earth Defense Force 6 offers a wealth of content and enjoyable multiplayer experiences that enhance replay value, there are underlying concerns about the game's repetitiveness and lack of innovation. Reviewers like Push Square and TheSixthAxis highlight that the game is particularly rewarding for fans of the series, but the criticisms from others suggest that newcomers or those looking for a fresh experience may find it lacking. Overall, the consensus points to a game that is fun and engaging, especially in multiplayer settings, but may not provide enough novelty to retain players in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Earth Defense Force 6 among critics is largely positive, with many praising its fun and engaging gameplay. Critics like Digitally Downloaded highlight the game's ability to deliver "pure fun distilled into a video game," emphasizing its campy B-grade sci-fi charm and enjoyable action sequences. KeenGamer appreciates the game's variety and content richness, particularly in its multiplayer experience, while Metro GameCentral notes the game's "special charm" despite its flaws. The cooperative gameplay and over-the-top action are recurrent themes, with several reviewers, including Shacknews and TheSixthAxis, celebrating the game's addictive nature and compelling combat against a backdrop of giant monsters and bugs. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Multiple reviewers, such as GameSpew and PlayStation Country, express disappointment over the lack of new elements and minimal improvements compared to its predecessors, leading to a sense of letdown. Visual shortcomings are a common point of contention, with critics like Siliconera arguing that the game tries too hard to be "so bad it's good," resulting in disappointing gameplay and graphics. Additionally, PlayStation LifeStyle and Hey Poor Player mention the repetitive nature of the gameplay, which may deter some players looking for innovation. In conclusion, the consensus among critics indicates that while Earth Defense Force 6 is enjoyable and retains the charm of its predecessors, it struggles with repetitiveness and a lack of significant advancements. Critics like Cubed3 and Push Square appreciate the fun experience it offers, particularly for fans of the series, but many also agree that it feels like a missed opportunity for innovation. Overall, Earth Defense Force 6 is recommended for those who enjoy light-hearted, action-packed gameplay, but it may not satisfy players seeking a fresh take on the franchise.

TL;DR

Critics largely praise Earth Defense Force 6 for its fun, campy gameplay and addictive co-op action, but it faces backlash for lacking innovation, visual flaws, and repetitiveness. While it's a blast for fans of the series, those seeking a fresh experience may feel let down.

MONSTER

Reviews

41 reviews found

Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Aug 7, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is highly recommended for fans of the series and those who enjoy cheesy dialogue, giant monsters/bugs, and shooting progressively crazier weaponry, offering a comforting and repetitive gameplay experience.

Read full review

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Aug 2, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is described as the most bombastically bonkers and brilliant EDF yet, offering a fast-paced, addictive gameplay experience with improved mechanics and high replay value.

Read full review

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jul 29, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is described as pure fun distilled into a video game, based on B-grade sci-fi and embodying a B-grade experience. Despite visual shortcomings, the action and humor make it a compelling experience.

Read full review

Shacknews

PlayStation 5

Jul 30, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is a welcome throwback to AA games, offering a campy vibe, compelling gameplay, and enjoyable combat against various enemies.

Read full review

Push Square

PlayStation 5

Jul 26, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is a stubbornly old school experience with satisfying gameplay, despite its visual shortcomings. It brings back the series with bug-smashing action and a time travel twist, offering a good time for players.

Read full review

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Jul 24, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 continues to build on the strengths of its predecessors, offering a thrilling and chaotic experience despite its visual shortcomings and repetitive nature. It is likely to attract fans of the series.

Read full review

Cubed3

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2024

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

Earth Defence Force 6 offers 'more of the same' as its predecessor with an improved story and slight changes. While not groundbreaking, it provides a fun experience that will keep players engaged.

Read full review

PlayStation Country

PlayStation 5

Aug 5, 2024

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

While still offering shooting carnage and fun co-op experiences, the game brings little new to the series, feels too long, and disappoints with minimal improvements, leading to a sense of letdown.

Read full review

KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

Aug 8, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 is praised for its gameplay variety, content richness, and multiplayer experience, but criticized for its story presentation and lack of character customization. It offers a fun and engaging experience for fans of the franchise.

Read full review

GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jul 26, 2024

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

Earth Defense Force 6 provides simple, silly fun with a campy tone, offering a fun time for players looking for mindless shooting and blowing stuff up in a co-op experience.

Read full review