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MONSTER

Eastward

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

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Comedy, Open World, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableSep 16, 2021

PlatformXbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperPixpil

Overview

Eastward is a beautifully detailed and charming adventure RPG, from Shanghai-based indie developers, Pixpil and published by Chucklefish. Escape the tyrannical clutches of a subterranean society and join Eastward’s unlikely duo on an exciting adventure to the land above! Discover beautiful yet bizarre settlements and make new friends as you travel across the world by rail. Inspired by 90s Japanese animation, the visual style of Eastward has been brought to life using a combination of a modern, innovative 3D lighting system and a rich retro-pixel artwork.

Elsewhere

7.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Eastward impresses with its emotional depth and charming character-driven narrative, particularly the touching father/daughter relationship. Critics praise its whimsical exploration of science fiction themes, humor, and rich storytelling. However, significant flaws emerge, including pacing issues, clichéd dialogue, and underdeveloped characters, leaving many plot points unresolved. While it's a captivating journey through a post-apocalyptic world, critics agree that the execution stumbles despite its heartfelt narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Eastward has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, who highlight its emotional depth and character-driven narrative. Reviewers like TheXboxHub appreciate the father/daughter relationship at the heart of the tale, while Atomix notes the optimistic and fantastical elements that explore science fiction themes and character relationships. Critics such as Cultured Vultures and Pocket Tactics commend the game's ability to weave deeper themes of humanity and domesticity into its narrative, creating an engaging experience. The writing is often praised for its charm and humor, with Hobby Consolas and RPG Fan emphasizing the emotional storytelling and quirky character interactions that add richness to the game's world. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the storytelling of Eastward. Cubed3 criticizes the pacing and character development, stating that while side characters are well-crafted, they contribute little to the main plot. Metro GameCentral echoes this sentiment, describing the plot as aimless and filled with cliché-ridden dialogue. Additionally, GameOver.gr and Nintendo Enthusiast express disappointment in the narrative's resolution, suggesting that it leaves many plot points unresolved and lacks depth in storytelling. Critics like IGN Japan also highlight weaknesses in character development, indicating that some characters feel uninspired and clichéd. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eastward presents a captivating and heartfelt narrative, albeit with notable flaws. While many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and Game Informer, appreciate the engaging storytelling and emotional connections between characters, others like NME and XGN point out issues with pacing, character development, and unresolved plotlines. Despite these criticisms, the game is seen as a charming and whimsical exploration of a post-apocalyptic world, with a blend of humor and darker themes that resonate with players, as noted by critics like Twinfinite and Vandal. Thus, Eastward stands out for its unique storytelling, even if it falters in execution at times.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Eastward impresses with its dual-character mechanics and engaging gameplay, earning praise for its polished boss fights and charming cooking feature. However, critics highlight issues with simplicity and repetitiveness, leading to a lack of depth and pacing problems. While it offers a nostalgic journey reminiscent of classic RPGs, the straightforward mechanics may leave some players wanting more. Overall, it’s a delightful experience for genre fans, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Eastward has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its engaging mechanics and unique character dynamics. Many reviewers, such as SpazioGames and RPG Fan, praised the ability to switch between the two main characters, John and Sam, which adds depth to both combat and puzzle-solving. This dual-character mechanic is highlighted as a fresh twist on the genre, allowing players to utilize distinct abilities to navigate challenges. Critics like KeenGamer and Vooks noted the fun and polished gameplay, emphasizing the well-designed boss fights and environmental puzzles that contribute to a satisfying experience. Additionally, the game’s cooking mechanic, mentioned positively by Game Informer, adds a charming layer that enhances gameplay by providing healing and buffs. However, several reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay, particularly regarding its simplicity and repetitiveness. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Nintendo Enthusiast found the combat and puzzles to be basic and lacking in originality, leading to a sense of monotony during regular encounters. The pacing of the game also received criticism, with TouchArcade and GameOver.gr noting that the straightforward mechanics and excessive dialogue could detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, some critics, such as Twinfinite and Cubed3, mentioned that while the boss battles are engaging, the dungeons can feel dragged out, contributing to a sense of fatigue during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Eastward offers a charming and nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic RPGs and action-adventure games like The Legend of Zelda, it struggles with pacing and depth in its core mechanics. Reviewers like IGN and Everyeye.it acknowledged the game’s solid integration of puzzles and combat but noted that the simplicity may not satisfy all players. Ultimately, Eastward is viewed as a delightful journey for fans of the genre, but its limitations in combat complexity and pacing may leave some players yearning for a more robust experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Eastward has received rave reviews for its breathtaking pixel art, impressive color palette, and nostalgic yet modern visuals, with critics praising its immersive world and expressive character animations. While there are minor criticisms about camera angles and occasional bugs, the game's stunning graphics and whimsical atmosphere, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli, make it a standout title that captivates players and critics alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Eastward have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's stunning pixel art and meticulous attention to detail. Reviewers such as TheXboxHub and Atomix highlighted the "incredible pixel art" and "impressive pixel art with meticulous attention to detail," respectively, emphasizing the vibrant color palette that brings the game’s world to life. Critics like Cultured Vultures and Finger Guns noted the eye-popping visuals and expressive character animations, which evoke a sense of nostalgia while also feeling fresh and modern. The use of a custom engine for dynamic lighting effects, as mentioned by Atomix, further enhances the immersive visual experience, allowing for a beautifully crafted retro-industrial world that captivates players. Many reviewers, including Nintendo Enthusiast and Game Informer, echoed sentiments about the game's ability to create a whimsical atmosphere through its art style, with references to the enchanting aesthetics reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor shortcomings in the game's visual execution. IGN Japan mentioned a lack of varied camera angles, which could detract from the overall visual experience, while Ragequit.gr noted that the "childish" charm of the graphics might not resonate with every player. Additionally, SpazioGames highlighted occasional bugs and frame rate drops during intense battles, which may disrupt the visual flow of the game. While these criticisms are relatively few, they indicate that while the visual design is strong, there are areas where the execution could be refined to enhance player experience further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eastward excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a captivating and vibrant world that successfully blends nostalgia with modern artistry. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameOver.gr and PC Gamer, celebrated the game's ability to transport players into a beautifully rendered universe filled with life and detail. Critics agree that the pixel art style, combined with expressive animations and a rich color palette, sets Eastward apart from other titles in the genre, making it a visually stunning accomplishment that resonates well with players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The music and sound design of Eastward are critically acclaimed, especially composer Joel Corelitz's nostalgic blend of 80s synthwave and chiptune, which enhances the game's tone and humor. While most reviewers praise the soundtrack for its memorable motifs and impact on gameplay, some note issues with repetitiveness and occasional mismatches with the game's atmosphere. Overall, the soundtrack is celebrated for its charm and contribution to a memorable gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Eastward have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many highlighting the exceptional work of composer Joel Corelitz. Reviewers from various outlets, including Atomix and Finger Guns, praised the soundtrack for its ability to convey the game's tone and humor effectively, enhancing the overall experience. The nostalgic influence of 80s synthwave and chiptune elements was frequently noted, with critics like Cultured Vultures and Pocket Tactics describing the music as a stunning tribute to retro gaming soundtracks. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and Screen Rant, emphasized that the soundtrack not only complements the gameplay but also leaves a lasting impression, with memorable motifs that resonate long after playing. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks. Nintendo Enthusiast described the soundtrack as "serviceable," suggesting it does not always complement the storytelling as well as the visuals. Additionally, Vooks and Vandal mentioned moments of repetitiveness in the music, indicating that while the tracks are enjoyable, they may not provide enough variety to maintain engagement throughout the game. Furthermore, IGN Japan noted that some high-quality music occasionally clashes with the game's atmosphere, which could detract from the immersive experience that many others praised. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that the sound design and music of Eastward significantly enhance the gaming experience. While some minor criticisms regarding repetitiveness and occasional mismatches with the atmosphere were noted, the overall sentiment reflects a strong appreciation for the captivating and nostalgic qualities of the soundtrack. Critics like Gameblog.fr and GAMINGbible encapsulated this sentiment well, highlighting how the music punctuates the game's best moments and contributes to its unique charm, making Eastward a memorable auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Eastward impresses with strong character design and emotional visual storytelling, compensating for its lack of traditional voice acting. Critics praise the game's expressive character gestures and engaging text-based dialogue, but some argue this limits emotional depth and accessibility, especially for non-English speakers. Ultimately, while it captivates many through its unique narrative style, the absence of voice acting may leave some players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Eastward has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly in how the game compensates for its absence. Reviewers like TheXboxHub and Atomix emphasize that while there is no traditional voice work, the emotional depth and personality of the characters shine through effectively. The character expressions and gestures, especially from the silent protagonist John, are highlighted as key elements that convey a range of emotions, indicating that the game's visual storytelling is strong. COGconnected also supports this sentiment, noting that the lack of voice acting does not detract from the overall narrative experience, suggesting that the game succeeds in engaging players through its design and character interactions. However, the absence of voice acting is a notable point of contention among critics. Checkpoint Gaming and PC Gamer mention that the game relies solely on text-based dialogue, which may limit the emotional resonance for some players. Critics like PC Games point out that while there is English voice acting, it comes with the caveat of language barriers for non-English speakers, potentially alienating a segment of the audience. This inconsistency raises questions about accessibility and inclusivity in the game's design, as the reliance on text may not resonate with all players, particularly those who prefer auditory storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Eastward lacks traditional voice acting, it compensates with strong character design and engaging dialogue. Reviewers like RPG Site affirm that the characters are brought to life through well-crafted text, filled with humor and personality, even with a silent protagonist. The game appears to effectively engage its audience through visual and textual means, creating a unique narrative experience. However, the absence of voice acting remains a significant aspect that some critics feel could enhance the game's emotional impact, suggesting a divide in player preferences regarding narrative delivery methods.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Eastward shines on Xbox One and PC with stable performance and a helpful auto-save feature, but the Nintendo Switch version struggles with frequent crashes and frame rate issues, overshadowing the experience. While critics highlight the game's overall quality, the technical problems on Switch could hinder enjoyment compared to its more polished counterparts. Ongoing patches may improve the situation, but concerns remain.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Eastward across different platforms has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception, particularly on Xbox One and PC. TheXboxHub noted that there were no specific enhancements for Xbox Series X|S, but the absence of technical issues suggests a stable experience on the Xbox One. On PC, reviewers like RPG Site highlighted stable gameplay with only minor visual glitches, while Eurogamer Italy mentioned that the game is playable on a wide range of hardware, indicating good optimization. The auto-save feature was praised across various platforms, with Noisy Pixel emphasizing its role in reducing player frustration, particularly in the PC version. However, the Nintendo Switch version of Eastward has faced more significant criticism regarding its technical performance. Critics like Gamers Heroes and KeenGamer reported frequent crashes that disrupted gameplay, especially during critical moments such as cutscenes and boss fights. Nintendo Enthusiast corroborated this by mentioning four crashes during their playthrough, alongside minor frame rate hiccups. While some reviews, like those from Hobby Consolas and RPG Fan, downplayed the severity of these issues, the overall sentiment indicates that the Switch version suffers from more notable technical problems compared to its Xbox and PC counterparts. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Eastward performs well on Xbox One and PC, the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by crashes and frame rate issues that detract from the experience. The auto-save feature is a redeeming quality across all platforms, helping to alleviate some frustrations caused by technical hiccups. Critics like Vooks acknowledged that a patch may have resolved some glitches, hinting at ongoing improvements. In summary, while the game is generally well-received, the performance on the Switch raises concerns that could impact player enjoyment, particularly in comparison to the more stable experiences reported on Xbox and PC.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Eastward offers strong replay value with RPG elements, side quests, and hidden secrets that entice exploration, according to critics like TheXboxHub and Checkpoint Gaming. However, many also highlight notable drawbacks, such as a linear progression, lack of a New Game+ mode, and unskippable cutscenes, which may limit the incentive for repeat play. The consensus is mixed: while some find the game engaging, others feel its structure inhibits true replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Eastward highlight several positive aspects that enhance the game's longevity. For instance, TheXboxHub notes the inclusion of RPG elements with roguelite features, which adds a layer of replayability that many players may find appealing. Similarly, Checkpoint Gaming emphasizes the presence of optional side quests, mini-games, and the Earth Born arcade game, which provide players with additional content to engage with beyond the main storyline. Critics like GAMINGbible and IGN also mention the allure of hidden areas and secrets to discover, which can entice players to revisit the game for a more thorough exploration of its world. The presence of a separate RPG minigame within Eastward is highlighted by several reviewers, suggesting that this unique feature could significantly extend gameplay. Conversely, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's overall replay value. Atomix points out that the linear progression and lack of side quests may limit the incentive for players to return to the game after completing it. Switch Player echoes this sentiment by mentioning the absence of a New Game+ mode and the difficulty in revisiting previously explored areas without a guide. Additionally, PC Games and SpazioGames highlight the game's linear nature, which may deter players seeking a more open-ended experience. The inability to skip cutscenes, as noted by XGN, further diminishes the appeal of replaying the game, as it can lead to a tedious experience for those looking to replay specific chapters. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with many acknowledging the engaging elements that can enhance replayability while also recognizing significant limitations. While some critics, like Checkpoint Gaming and GAMINGbible, find value in the optional content and hidden secrets, others, such as Atomix and SpazioGames, express concern about the game's linear structure and lack of robust replay options. Ultimately, Eastward presents a blend of intriguing gameplay features that may appeal to completionists and those who enjoy exploration, but the absence of more flexible replay options and the linear progression may leave some players feeling that the game lacks the depth needed for repeated playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Eastward from various critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its captivating visuals, engaging gameplay, and charming storytelling. Critics like IGN and Screen Rant highlight the game's beautiful pixel art and impressive soundtrack, emphasizing its nostalgic charm and solid gameplay mechanics. Game Informer notes that the characters, setting, and sound design contribute to an unforgettable experience, while Cultured Vultures calls it a fantastic and original game that stands out among indie titles. The game's art style and emotional depth resonate with many, making it a recommended title for fans of RPGs and action-adventure games, as reflected in reviews from Hobby Consolas and KeenGamer. However, despite the numerous strengths, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses that hinder the game's overall impact. Issues such as poor pacing, simplistic combat, and a lack of character development were frequently mentioned. Metro GameCentral criticized the pretentious storytelling and shallow gameplay, while Cubed3 echoed concerns about the poorly paced narrative. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and NME also highlighted the game's slow pace and the struggle to maintain engagement throughout, suggesting that these flaws detract from the overall experience. The lack of a coherent storyline and unresolved plot points were further noted by Launcher and GamesRadar+, indicating that while the game shines in many areas, it falters in narrative cohesion. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Eastward is a commendable indie title that successfully blends nostalgia with modern gameplay elements, despite its pacing and narrative issues. Many reviewers, including PC Gamer and RPG Fan, recommend the game for its artistic merits and engaging gameplay, suggesting that it is worth experiencing for fans of the genre. While some critics like Vandal and TouchArcade acknowledge the shortcomings, they ultimately agree that the game's charm and creativity make it a memorable adventure. Overall, Eastward is positioned as a standout title in the indie gaming landscape, with the majority of critics urging players to explore its rich universe and unique storytelling.

TL;DR

Eastward is a visually stunning indie gem praised for its captivating art, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic charm, with critics lauding its character design and soundtrack. However, it struggles with pacing, simplistic combat, and a disjointed narrative, which some reviewers claim detracts from the experience. Overall, it’s recommended for RPG and action-adventure fans, blending nostalgia with modern elements, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

103 reviews found

100

Screen Rant

Sep 14, 2021

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

Eastward is a phenomenal debut that deserves attention. It shines in its narrative, solid gameplay, impressive visuals, mesmerizing soundtrack, and indie design. It may have some shortcomings, but it's an unmissable and impressive feat of indie design.

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100

WellPlayed

Nintendo Switch

Sep 24, 2021

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

An absolute classic that is deep, moving, and enjoyable.

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Noisy Pixel

Sep 20, 2021

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

Eastward is a genuinely standout gaming experience with a fantastic final chapter. It fulfills action-adventure needs and offers a memorable experience.

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KeenGamer

Nintendo Switch

May 17, 2022

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

Eastward is a highly recommended game with a strong story, fun gameplay, stunning visuals, and a brilliant soundtrack, despite some technical issues.

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GAMINGbible

Sep 14, 2021

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

Eastward is a sparkling, affecting, strikingly confident video game with gorgeous pixel art, an unforgettable story, and excellent world design. Despite some minor issues like clunky combat and backtracking, it offers a comfortable yet fresh experience that remixes classic RPG elements exceptionally well.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Oct 29, 2021

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

Eastward is praised as a gem in the pixel adventure-RPG genre, with a captivating story, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. It is recommended for lovers of pixel JRPGs.

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Gameblog.fr

Sep 14, 2021

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

Visually stunning, engaging, and well-crafted 2D adventure game that blends nostalgia with modern gameplay elements

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Cultured Vultures

Nintendo Switch

Sep 17, 2021

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

Eastward is a fantastic and original game that takes familiar ingredients and creates a new and unexpected contender for game of the year.

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Everyeye.it

Sep 14, 2021

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

Eastward is praised as a standout indie title that combines engaging storytelling, charming visuals, and a unique gameplay experience, marking it as a potential cult classic.

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Vooks

Nintendo Switch

Oct 4, 2021

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

Eastward is a masterful title with amazing pixel art, great characters, and a perfect blend of RPG and action-adventure gameplay.

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