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Echoes of the End

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Echoes of the End
Item: Echoes of the End
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Single Player

AvailableAug 12, 2025

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperMyrkur Games

Overview

Embark on a perilous journey to rescue your brother and prevent a looming war. Harness the power of devastating magical abilities to conquer enemies, traverse treacherous landscapes, and unveil the hidden history of Aema.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Echoes of the End impresses with its rich fantasy world and emotional protagonist, Ryn, whose quest to rescue her brother resonates deeply. Critics praise its themes of trust and redemption, alongside captivating lore. However, many highlight significant flaws—an uninspiring narrative, weak character depth, and reliance on overused tropes hinder the experience. While the story shows improvement in the latter half, it ultimately leaves players craving more originality and depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Echoes of the End has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging protagonist, Ryn, and the richly developed fantasy world inspired by Iceland. Many reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and GamingTrend, praised the narrative for its emotional depth and character development, highlighting Ryn's journey to rescue her brother as a compelling core of the story. Critics like CGMagazine noted the exploration of themes such as trust, redemption, and sacrifice, which add layers to the narrative. The worldbuilding is also frequently mentioned as a strong point, with GameStar and Finger Guns emphasizing the captivating lore and the immersive environments that enhance the overall experience. However, several critics pointed out significant weaknesses in the story's execution. IGN Spain described the narrative as one of the weakest aspects of the game, criticizing the lack of engaging plot and character depth. Checkpoint Gaming echoed these sentiments, noting that the story starts weakly and suffers from unclear exposition, making it challenging to grasp initially. Additionally, some reviewers, including Loot Level Chill and Oyungezer, found Ryn's character to be somewhat unlikeable, which detracted from their overall enjoyment of the narrative. The reliance on familiar fantasy tropes, as mentioned by TheXboxHub and PlayStation Universe, also led to perceptions of predictability and a lack of originality in the storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Echoes of the End presents an intriguing premise and a beautifully crafted world, it struggles with character development and narrative depth. Critics like Wccftech and GamingBolt noted that although the story has familiar elements, it becomes more engaging in the latter half. Many reviewers appreciated the emotional stakes tied to Ryn's quest, but the execution often fell short of expectations. Thus, while the game has its merits, particularly in character arcs and thematic exploration, it ultimately leaves some players wanting more in terms of originality and depth.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Echoes of the End impresses with its exploration and puzzle mechanics, drawing positive comparisons to God of War for its engaging combat and magical integration. However, combat feels stiff and repetitive, with input issues and a lack of innovation that frustrates players. Critics highlight enjoyable moments but emphasize the need for significant improvements in combat depth and responsiveness to enhance the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Echoes of the End has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly regarding its exploration and puzzle mechanics. Reviewers like Generación Xbox praised the balance between sword combat and magical abilities, highlighting the engaging combat system and unique integration of magic into puzzles. Similarly, Finger Guns noted the action combat complemented by psychokinesis powers and environmental puzzles, drawing favorable comparisons to God of War. Critics like GamingTrend and IGN Spain also acknowledged the strong design of environmental puzzles and the enjoyable combat mechanics, suggesting that the gameplay has moments of creativity and challenge that can be rewarding for players. However, the gameplay also suffers from several notable drawbacks that have been consistently highlighted across reviews. Many critics, including TheXboxHub and CGMagazine, pointed out that the combat can feel stiff, repetitive, and lacking in satisfying mechanics, with CGMagazine specifically mentioning weightless hits and uninspired strategies. Input detection issues and awkward mechanics were also cited by PlayStation Universe and Impulsegamer, leading to frustrating experiences during combat. Additionally, critics like Wccftech and XboxEra described the gameplay as formulaic and lacking innovation, with repetitive puzzles and predictable combat encounters that diminish the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Echoes of the End offers some engaging gameplay elements, particularly in its puzzle design and exploration, it is marred by significant issues in combat mechanics and responsiveness. Critics such as Gameliner and Try Hard Guides emphasized that the combat lacks depth and variety, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. Despite some enjoyable moments and creative ideas, the gameplay ultimately feels uneven, with many reviewers calling for improvements in combat responsiveness and innovation to elevate the experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Echoes of the End wows with stunning visuals and landscapes powered by Unreal Engine 5, earning high praise from critics for its artistic design. However, technical issues like bugs, glitches, and performance hiccups tarnish the experience, highlighting the gap between ambition and execution. The game excels visually but needs polish to fully realize its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Echoes of the End have garnered significant praise from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as Generación Xbox and CGMagazine, highlight the impressive use of Unreal Engine 5, which contributes to the game's stunning visuals. Critics like TheXboxHub and GamingBolt emphasize the breathtaking landscapes inspired by Icelandic nature, noting the game's ability to create immersive environments that captivate players. The attention to detail in character modeling and environmental design is frequently mentioned, with PlayStation Universe and Movies Games and Tech praising the beautiful locations and painterly aesthetics that enhance the overall experience. This consensus on the game's visual appeal underscores its status as one of the more visually striking titles of the year. However, despite the acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall visual experience. Finger Guns and Gamereactor UK mention technical issues such as bugs and graphical glitches that can disrupt immersion, while IGN Spain highlights unnatural jumping and interaction problems. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Loot Level Chill also note that performance issues, including stuttering and optimization challenges, can hinder the otherwise impressive graphics. These criticisms suggest that while the visual design is ambitious and largely successful, it is marred by inconsistencies that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Overall, the sentiment among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Echoes of the End is largely positive, with many praising its stunning environments and character models. However, the presence of technical issues and performance problems has tempered some of this enthusiasm. The game is recognized for its impressive visuals and artistic direction, as noted by critics like PC Games and Wccftech, yet the recurring mentions of bugs and optimization issues indicate that there is room for improvement. Ultimately, Echoes of the End stands out for its visual artistry, but it also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by developers in delivering a polished experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are split on Echoes of the End's sound design and music. While the original soundtrack and voice acting—especially by Icelandic actors—add atmospheric depth, many find the music generic and lacking memorability, with poor sound mixing diminishing gameplay impact. The consensus highlights a need for more distinctive musical elements to elevate the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The sound design and music of Echoes of the End have garnered a range of opinions from critics, showcasing several positive aspects. Generación Xbox praises the original soundtrack by Viktor Ingi Guðmundsson for its effective blend of ambient compositions and traditional Icelandic music, which enhances both the atmosphere and combat experience. Similarly, Gamereactor UK highlights the unique tone of the voice acting, particularly the Icelandic actors speaking English, which adds a distinctive flavor to the dialogue. Critics like Finger Guns and CGMagazine also acknowledge the strength of the voice acting, noting that it enhances the narrative and emotional engagement, even if CGMagazine points out the absence of vocal tracks in the score. Overall, there is a consensus that the music complements the game well, with some critics appreciating its emotional resonance and atmospheric qualities. However, the critiques reveal significant shortcomings in the sound design and music. PlayStation Universe and GamingTrend describe the soundtrack as generic and lacking memorability, with noticeable looping during gameplay that detracts from immersion. Checkpoint Gaming expresses disappointment in the voice acting, citing a lack of emotional depth that undermines critical narrative moments. Oyungezer raises concerns about poor sound mixing, indicating that some sounds are either too quiet or absent, which diminishes the impact of actions in gameplay. Multiplayer.it also notes that while the soundtrack is engaging, the sound effects often lack the necessary weight, further contributing to a less than optimal audio experience. The overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the sound design and music of Echoes of the End. While there are commendable elements, particularly in the voice acting and the atmospheric quality of the music, many critics agree that the soundtrack lacks memorable themes and that sound effects can be underwhelming. Critics like Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe emphasize the need for more distinctive musical elements to enhance the overall experience, while others like GamingBolt and Multiplayer.it recognize the potential of the score but lament its execution. Ultimately, while the sound design and music contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, there is a clear call for improvement in terms of memorability and impact.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Echoes of the End" boasts highly praised voice acting that enhances character depth and narrative engagement, with critics like Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe highlighting its effectiveness. Aldís Amah Hamilton's performance as Ryn receives special acclaim. However, Checkpoint Gaming criticizes some performances for lacking emotional depth, suggesting inconsistencies in quality. Overall, the majority view the voice acting as a standout feature, despite a few mixed reviews.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The voice acting in "Echoes of the End" has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its quality and the depth it adds to the characters. Finger Guns commends the performances for their believability, which enhances player engagement, while PlayStation Universe echoes this sentiment, noting that the strong performances align well with the characters and the game’s setting. CGMagazine particularly shines a light on Aldís Amah Hamilton's portrayal of Ryn, emphasizing how her delivery enriches character dynamics. Other critics, such as Gameliner and Wccftech, also affirm that the voice acting is well-executed and effectively complements the characters' personalities and motivations, contributing positively to the overall narrative experience. However, not all reviews are favorable. Checkpoint Gaming offers a contrasting perspective, arguing that the voice acting fails to convey the emotional weight of the story, suggesting that it comes across more like scripted reading rather than authentic performances. This critique raises concerns about the consistency of the voice acting quality, indicating that while some performances resonate well, others might lack the emotional depth necessary to fully engage players. The divergence in opinions suggests that there may be inconsistencies in the performances across the cast, which could affect the overall immersion for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive reception of the voice acting in "Echoes of the End," with many praising its ability to enhance character development and narrative engagement. While there are notable critiques regarding emotional delivery, particularly from Checkpoint Gaming, the majority of reviewers, including Gamereactor UK and XboxEra, affirm that the voice acting is a strong point of the game. This suggests that, despite some mixed opinions, the voice performances are generally effective in contributing to the game's storytelling and character connections, making it a standout feature for most players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Echoes of the End has solid gameplay potential but suffers from significant technical issues across all platforms. On Xbox Series X, it shows a decent performance with minor frame rate drops, while the PS5 version offers enjoyment despite bugs and jank. The PC version, however, is plagued by serious glitches and inconsistent combat feedback, leading critics to liken it to an Early Access title. Overall, while the game has promise, it desperately needs more polish and fixes to elevate the experience before it can truly shine.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

50%

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

The technical performance of Echoes of the End varies across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Xbox Series X, both Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub acknowledged that while there are minor performance issues, the game performs well overall, suggesting a solid foundation. On the PS5, PlayStation Universe and Finger Guns mentioned that the game is enjoyable despite minor technical hiccups, such as input recognition issues and some bugs that disrupt gameplay. The PC version presents a mixed bag, with GamingBolt and Oyungezer reporting stable performance with only minor stuttering during transitions, indicating that for some players, the experience can be quite smooth. However, the negatives for each platform cannot be overlooked. On Xbox Series X, both critics noted frame rate drops and camera jitters, which, while not game-breaking, can detract from the experience. The PS5 version suffers from various bugs and jank, affecting gameplay significantly, as highlighted by Finger Guns. The PC version is particularly troubled, with multiple critics such as Gamereactor UK, Try Hard Guides, and Wccftech pointing out serious technical issues like stuttering, glitches, and inconsistent combat feedback. These problems suggest a lack of polish that hampers the overall experience, with some critics even likening it to an Early Access title. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Echoes of the End has a solid premise but is marred by significant technical issues across all platforms. While the Xbox Series X and PS5 versions have manageable problems, the PC version is plagued with a variety of performance issues, as noted by critics like IGN Spain and Multiplayer.it, which undermine the gameplay experience. The game seems to require further development and polishing, as many reviewers, including CGMagazine and PCGamesN, pointed out that the developers are actively working on fixes to address these concerns. This sentiment indicates that while there is potential in the game, it currently falls short of delivering a fully polished experience across the board.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Echoes of the End has a few redeeming qualities like collectibles and exploration, but critics largely agree its linear structure, lackluster combat, and derivative gameplay severely limit replay value. With a completion time of about twelve hours and punishing difficulty, most players are unlikely to revisit, making the game feel more like a one-and-done experience than a long-lasting adventure.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Echoes of the End reveal a few positive aspects that some critics highlight. Generación Xbox notes that the game provides a compact experience with opportunities for exploration and collecting secrets, which can be appealing to players who enjoy discovering hidden elements within a game. Similarly, TheXboxHub hints at the potential for replay value through its collectibles and challenging gameplay, suggesting that players might find reasons to revisit the game despite the lack of explicit discussion on replayability. Additionally, XboxEra mentions the presence of a decent skill tree, which could provide players with different approaches to gameplay upon subsequent playthroughs. However, the consensus among critics leans towards the negative when it comes to replay value. CGMagazine and Gameliner emphasize the game's linear structure, with CGMagazine stating that the lack of engaging combat may limit replayability, while Gameliner points out that the game can be completed in about twelve hours, suggesting limited opportunities for players to return. Movies Games and Tech echo this sentiment, indicating that the linear design may leave exploration-hungry players wanting more. Furthermore, Multiplayer.it raises concerns about the derivative gameplay and technical issues that could diminish players' desire to replay the game. PCGamesN adds to this narrative by suggesting that the punishing difficulty may deter players from engaging in a second playthrough, as it can feel more like a grind than an enjoyable challenge. Overall, the critics seem to reach a consensus that while Echoes of the End offers some elements that could contribute to replayability, such as collectibles and exploration opportunities, these are overshadowed by significant drawbacks. The linear gameplay, lack of engaging combat, and derivative mechanics highlighted by several reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and XboxEra, suggest that the game may not encourage players to return after their initial experience. Consequently, while there are aspects that could entice players to replay, the overall sentiment indicates that Echoes of the End has limited replay value, making it less appealing for those seeking a game with substantial longevity.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Echoes of the End is mixed, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Reviewers like Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub praise the game for its stunning visuals and engaging gameplay, noting that it represents a brave and personal debut for Myrkur Games. CGMagazine and GamingTrend echo these sentiments, emphasizing the captivating narrative and beautiful presentation. Critics like Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe appreciate the nostalgic elements and the enjoyable single-player experience, suggesting that the game successfully combines classic action-adventure elements with a fresh narrative. The consensus among many reviewers is that the game has a strong foundation built on storytelling and aesthetics, making it appealing to fans of the genre. However, the game is not without its flaws, which several critics have pointed out. Technical issues are a recurring theme, with many reviewers, including Gamereactor UK and Wccftech, noting that these problems hinder the overall experience. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Gameliner highlight issues with gameplay mechanics, particularly in combat and puzzle balance, leading to a feeling of repetitiveness and predictability. Additionally, some reviewers, such as IGN Spain and PCGamesN, mention that the narrative lacks depth and can feel monotonous, suggesting that while the game has potential, it struggles to fully realize it due to these shortcomings. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Echoes of the End is a promising debut that showcases strong storytelling and visuals but is marred by significant technical and gameplay issues. While many reviewers, such as Try Hard Guides and Impulsegamer, recommend waiting for improvements before purchasing, others, like XboxEra, suggest that it still offers an enjoyable experience for those willing to overlook its flaws. Ultimately, the game is seen as a mixed bag, with potential for future growth if the developers address the highlighted issues.

TL;DR

Echoes of the End presents a mixed bag of striking visuals and engaging storytelling, praised by critics for its brave debut and nostalgic elements. However, technical glitches and gameplay mechanics detract from the experience, leading to a repetitive narrative. While some suggest waiting for fixes, others find enjoyment despite the flaws. Overall, it shows promise but needs improvement to fully realize its potential.

MONSTER

Reviews

55 reviews found

GamingTrend

Aug 12, 2025