Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Endless Ocean Luminous

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Endless Ocean Luminous
Item: Endless Ocean Luminous
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Simulation, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMay 2, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperAkira

Overview

Dive in and survey a mysterious underwater world. Take a deep breath and plunge into the Veiled Sea: an unexplored region with discoveries that change with each dive. Encounter and learn about over 500 species of marine life—some of which are presumed extinct, or even mythical!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

47%

Negative (0-49)

40%

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

The critics generally agree that the story in Endless Ocean: Luminous is not the main focus of the game. Some positive aspects highlighted include the inclusion of mythical creatures, surprises under the sea, and the opportunity to explore and study an underwater world, as noted by God is a Geek and Jeuxvideo.com. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming praises the narrative for its focus on exploring the Veiled Sea, solving mysteries, and delivering a pro-environmental message. Pocket Tactics also appreciates the fun story mode that allows for immersive exploration as a marine biologist. On the negative side, several critics point out the weaknesses of the story in Endless Ocean: Luminous. CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming note that the narrative serves mainly as a tutorial for the game's mechanics, lacking depth and engagement. Metro GameCentral criticizes the story as weak and nonsensical, with strict chapter requirements that turn exploration into a grind. Siliconera and Twinfinite highlight the lack of depth and tedious nature of the story mode, with minimal interactivity and slow progression. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story in Endless Ocean: Luminous is minimal, lacking depth and complexity. While some appreciated the inclusion of mythical elements, environmental themes, and the opportunity for exploration, the majority found the narrative to be weak, disjointed, and unengaging. The story mode was often criticized for its slow pace, tedious requirements, and lack of player interaction with the marine environment. Despite some positive aspects, such as the educational value and immersive exploration, the general sentiment leans towards a disappointing and lackluster story experience in the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics generally agree that the story in Endless Ocean: Luminous takes a backseat to gameplay. While praised for mythical creatures and exploration opportunities, the narrative falls short with criticisms of being shallow and unengaging. With a focus on tutorials and lacking depth, the story mode disappoints with slow progression and minimal interactivity. Overall, the consensus is a lackluster and disappointing story experience in the game.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

35%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

24%

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

The gameplay of Endless Ocean Luminous has received a mix of opinions from critics. Some positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the exploration-focused gameplay, relaxing experience, and satisfying discovery elements. Critics like My Nintendo News and Nintenduo appreciated the hands-off approach to exploration, high replayability, and the variety of activities available such as underwater exploration, scanning fish, taking photos, and interacting with other players in a multiplayer setting. The game's simplistic and pressure-free gameplay, as mentioned by Shacknews, also adds to its relaxing and enjoyable nature, especially when shared with friends. On the other hand, several critics pointed out various negatives regarding the gameplay of Endless Ocean Luminous. Common criticisms include the monotonous and repetitive nature of scanning fish, exploring marine life, and completing missions. Critics like CGMagazine, COGconnected, and IGN Spain highlighted the grindy and interruptive gameplay loop of constantly scanning fish, leading to a lack of depth and variety in missions. Some critics, such as SpazioGames and Wccftech, mentioned the overly simplistic and lacking challenging objectives and missions, as well as the game's failure to offer more tools and depth compared to previous entries in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Endless Ocean Luminous leans towards a mixed reception. While some critics appreciated the relaxing and exploration-focused nature of the game, others found the gameplay to be monotonous, lacking depth, and repetitive. The emphasis on scanning fish and completing missions was a common point of contention, with critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral highlighting the repetitive and unenjoyable aspects of these mechanics. Despite some positive feedback on the multiplayer aspect and enjoyable exploration mechanics, the overall sentiment suggests that Endless Ocean Luminous may struggle to offer a truly engaging and varied gameplay experience for all players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on the gameplay of Endless Ocean Luminous. Some praise its exploration-focused and relaxing experience with satisfying discovery elements. However, others criticize its monotonous scanning fish and repetitive missions, lacking depth and variety. While the multiplayer aspect and hands-off exploration are appreciated, the game falls short in providing engaging gameplay for all players.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

65%

Negative (0-49)

12%

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

The opinions regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Endless Ocean Luminous are varied among the critics. Several critics praised the game for its visually stunning aspects. COGconnected appreciated the colorful and crisp visuals that effectively captured the underwater world, with dynamic lighting enhancing the immersive experience. Pocket Tactics also highlighted the aesthetically stunning water graphics, shipwrecks, ruins, and coral reefs. TechRadar Gaming commended the visually stunning biomes, creatures, and underwater environments that provided a magical and immersive experience. These positive aspects of the game's graphics were acknowledged for their beauty and immersive qualities. On the other hand, some critics expressed negative opinions about the game's visual design. CGMagazine found the visuals to be underwhelming and somewhat amateur, lacking life and interactivity, with a generic sound design. Metro GameCentral mentioned that while the graphics were good for the Switch, the underwater world felt lifeless and artificial, lacking variety and depth. Wccftech criticized the visuals for being dated, with varying quality in sea creature designs, occasional frame rate issues, and a lack of a sense of wonder and beauty. These criticisms point towards issues such as lack of depth, artificiality, and dated visuals that detracted from the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Endless Ocean Luminous is mixed. While some critics appreciated the stunning visuals, immersive environments, and diverse marine life, others criticized the lack of interactivity, artificiality, and dated graphics. Checkpoint Gaming praised the simple yet effective visual design that created a relaxing and immersive underwater world, while Siliconera noted the variety of marine life but mentioned a lack of interaction and acknowledgment of the player's presence. The opinions on the game's graphics varied from being visually appealing and immersive to lacking depth and interactivity, showcasing a range of perspectives on the visual aspects of Endless Ocean Luminous.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Endless Ocean Luminous's graphics divided critics. Some lauded its stunning visuals, immersive environments, and diverse marine life. Others criticized the lack of interactivity, artificiality, and dated graphics. While some found the visuals captivating, others felt they lacked depth and interactivity. Ultimately, opinions on the game's graphics ranged from immersive beauty to shortcomings in interactivity and dated design.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

63%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

The Sound Design and Music of Endless Ocean Luminous received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Checkpoint Gaming praised the top-notch sound design, highlighting ambient sea static and music that enhanced the epic scale of encountering rare marine creatures. Jeuxvideo.com also appreciated the delicate and enjoyable music, noting that it complemented the sound of the waves well, creating a pleasant atmosphere. Twinfinite mentioned that the soundtrack provided a chill vibe similar to previous Endless Ocean games, with the sound design enhancing the underwater experience. On the other hand, CGMagazine criticized the sound design for being generic and lacking immersion, with AI voices sounding artificial and not enhancing the gameplay experience. My Nintendo News echoed similar sentiments, mentioning a light ambient soundtrack that did little to complement the experience, with occasional interruptions and unsettling character swimming sounds. Nintenduo noted a decrease in sound design and music quality compared to previous Endless Ocean games, with some effects sounding unrealistic. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a positive view of the sound design and music in Endless Ocean Luminous. While there were criticisms regarding generic sound design, unsettling character sounds, and a lack of standout music, the majority of reviewers appreciated the immersive underwater experience created by the sound design. IGN Spain highlighted the game's serene and immersive underwater experience, while TechRadar Gaming praised the detailed audio cues for underwater exploration. Despite some drawbacks, the general sentiment suggests that the sound design and music contribute positively to the overall atmosphere and gameplay of Endless Ocean Luminous.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed opinions on the sound design and music of Endless Ocean Luminous. Some praised the immersive ambient sea static and chill vibe of the soundtrack, while others criticized it for being generic and lacking immersion. Overall, reviewers generally found the sound design enhanced the underwater experience positively, despite some flaws like unsettling character sounds.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

33%

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

The voice acting in Endless Ocean: Luminous has received mixed feedback from critics. Some positives highlighted by reviewers include the charm added to the story mode experience by the dialogue between the player's AI guide and a companion diver, as noted by TechRadar Gaming. Additionally, My Nintendo News appreciated the extensive AI voicework, particularly in the fully voiced Creature Log entries, which could enhance the immersion for players interested in learning about aquatic creatures. On the negative side, the voice acting was heavily criticized for sounding robotic and lacking emotion, resembling an AI assistant rather than engaging characters, as pointed out by CGMagazine. Checkpoint Gaming mentioned that the use of AI speech, especially for the AI companion being the only voiced character through text-to-speech, may come off as a cheap solution and detract from the overall experience. Jeuxvideo.com also highlighted the simulated nature of the voice acting by artificial intelligence, which was perceived as lacking enthusiasm and contributing to the lackluster experience of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a more critical view of the voice acting in Endless Ocean: Luminous. While there are some positive aspects such as the charm added to the story mode and the extensive voicework in certain parts of the game, the general sentiment is that the voice acting falls short in terms of emotional delivery and engagement. The reliance on AI speech for key characters and the lack of human voice acting for important roles like fellow diver Daniel were points of contention that impacted the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game, as highlighted by Checkpoint Gaming and God is a Geek.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Endless Ocean: Luminous. Positive aspects include charm in the story mode dialogue and immersive AI voicework. However, the voice acting was heavily criticized for sounding robotic and lacking emotion, detracting from the overall experience. The use of AI speech for key characters was deemed a cheap solution. Overall, critics feel the voice acting falls short in emotional delivery and engagement, impacting the game's immersion and enjoyment.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

In terms of technical performance on the Nintendo Switch, several critics highlighted positive aspects. My Nintendo News praised the smooth performance during exploration, while Pocket Tactics commended the game for running perfectly in both handheld and docked modes, with seamless movement and a non-invasive UI. Additionally, Nintenduo noted that Endless Ocean Luminous runs smoothly on the platform, with occasional FPS drops related to on-screen layering that do not significantly impact the gameplay experience. On the flip side, there were some negative aspects mentioned by critics regarding the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch. Metro GameCentral criticized the game for ignoring technical elements of scuba diving and restricting movement speed, which led to a lack of character in the randomly-generated maps. Wccftech pointed out frame rate issues at times and limitations in the online experience, such as the absence of matchmaking and voice chat. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of Endless Ocean Luminous on the Nintendo Switch is mixed. While there were positive comments about smooth performance, seamless movement, and stable online play, there were also concerns raised about FPS drops, lack of technical depth, and limitations in the online features. It appears that the game delivers a generally smooth experience but may suffer from occasional technical hiccups and missed opportunities for deeper gameplay elements, as highlighted by Metro GameCentral and Wccftech.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics have mixed feelings about the technical performance of Endless Ocean Luminous on Nintendo Switch. Positive aspects include smooth exploration, seamless movement, and stable online play. However, there are concerns about FPS drops, lack of technical depth, and limited online features. Overall, the game offers a generally smooth experience but may have occasional technical issues and missed opportunities for deeper gameplay.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

24%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

35%

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted various aspects of Endless Ocean Luminous that contribute to its replay value. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Nintenduo appreciated the multiplayer features, such as Shared Dives and playing with friends, which provide opportunities for cooperative exploration and sharing discoveries. Additionally, Pocket Tactics and My Nintendo News mentioned the wealth of unlockable content, customization options, hidden secrets, and achievements that cater to completionists and offer a substantial amount of replay value. On the negative side, critics pointed out several factors that may limit the game's replayability. CGMagazine and COGconnected criticized the repetitive gameplay mechanics and lack of engaging content, which could lead to diminishing interest in replaying the game. IGN Spain and Jeuxvideo.com mentioned the repetitive missions, lack of significant progression incentives, and dull multiplayer mode as factors contributing to the limited replay value of Endless Ocean Luminous. Siliconera also noted the lack of enriching interactions in multiplayer, further diminishing the game's replayability. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that while Endless Ocean Luminous offers some replay value through its multiplayer features, customization options, and unlockable content, the repetitive gameplay, lack of engaging content, and limited variety in missions may hinder its long-term appeal. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Twinfinite acknowledged the game's efforts to encourage exploration and shared dives but highlighted that the charm may wear thin over extended play sessions. The general sentiment suggests that while the game has its strengths in providing relaxation and meditative experiences, it may struggle to maintain player interest in the long run due to its repetitive nature and lack of depth in gameplay.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Endless Ocean Luminous for its multiplayer features and wealth of unlockable content that enhance replay value, but they criticize its repetitive gameplay and lack of engaging content, limiting long-term appeal. While the game offers relaxation and shared experiences, it may struggle to keep players interested due to its repetitive nature and lack of depth.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

76%

Negative (0-49)

11%

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted the serene and relaxing underwater exploration experience offered by Endless Ocean Luminous. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and TechRadar Gaming appreciated the game's visually stunning graphics and soothing atmosphere, making it a suitable choice for players seeking a laid-back adventure. The diverse marine life and educational aspects of the game were also commended by Pocket Tactics, providing an immersive and informative experience for those interested in marine exploration. On the negative side, criticisms were directed towards the repetitive gameplay mechanics and lack of depth in Endless Ocean Luminous. CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral noted the monotonous nature of the gameplay, which could deter players looking for more varied and engaging experiences. Siliconera and Jeuxvideo.com pointed out the game's shortcomings in providing meaningful progression, engaging gameplay, and a compelling story, leading to a sense of shallowness and missed potential within the franchise. Additionally, some critics like IGN Spain and Twinfinite highlighted issues with pacing, mission variety, and gameplay depth, which contributed to a somewhat lackluster and uninspiring gameplay loop. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Endless Ocean Luminous leans towards a mixed reception. While the game excels in delivering a peaceful and visually appealing underwater exploration experience, it falls short in terms of providing engaging gameplay, meaningful progression, and a compelling narrative. Critics like God is a Geek and Shacknews appreciated the game's relaxing and meditative qualities, while others such as TheSixthAxis and Wccftech expressed concerns about its lack of depth and innovation compared to previous entries in the franchise. Ultimately, Endless Ocean Luminous seems to cater more towards dedicated aquarists and players seeking a tranquil diving experience, rather than those looking for a more dynamic and immersive gameplay adventure.

TL;DR

Endless Ocean Luminous offers a serene underwater adventure with stunning visuals and educational value, praised by some critics. However, the game falls short with repetitive gameplay, lack of depth, and a shallow story, leading to a mixed reception. While some appreciate its relaxing qualities, others find it lacking innovation and engaging gameplay compared to previous entries in the franchise. Overall, it caters more to players seeking a tranquil diving experience rather than a dynamic gameplay adventure.

MONSTER

Reviews

87 reviews found

Pocket Tactics

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous is a great choice for those interested in marine life exploration, offering a peaceful and educational experience with some potential repetitive strain.

Read full review

TechRadar Gaming

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous is a unique and relaxing deep-sea diving experience with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a cooperative multiplayer mode, making it highly recommended for players seeking a laid-back exploration adventure.

Read full review

God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous is a lovely, relaxing, and almost meditative game with niche appeal. Offers a gorgeous underwater adventure with loads to discover.

Read full review

Nintenduo

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous delivers a solid underwater exploration experience with a focus on multiplayer interactions, offering a relaxing and content-rich gameplay loop despite some shortcomings in sound design and storytelling integration.

Read full review

Wccftech

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous lacks depth and complexity compared to previous entries, with a narrow focus on procedural generation and online play, making it a niche product even for diehard fans.

Read full review

Checkpoint Gaming

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean: Luminous offers a relaxing and low-stakes ocean exploration experience with a variety of marine life to discover. While the story mode and core gameplay mechanics may have shortcomings, the game's atmospheric visuals and sound design contribute to its soothing appeal. The price point and some clunkiness in gameplay may deter some players, but those seeking a tranquil underwater adventure may find enjoyment in this title.

Read full review

Shacknews

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous provides a relaxing and enjoyable experience, particularly when played with others. While it may not excel in every aspect, it offers a serene dive into the ocean world.

Read full review

IGN Spain

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous provides a relaxing underwater exploration experience with a variety of marine species to discover, but falls short in terms of gameplay depth, mission variety, and progression incentives, resulting in a somewhat monotonous gameplay loop.

Read full review

CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Endless Ocean Luminous is described as underwhelming and boring, failing to inspire wonder or exploration. The gameplay is deemed too monotonous to be worthwhile, appealing mainly to dedicated Aquarists.

Read full review

My Nintendo News

Nintendo Switch

Apr 30, 2024

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

Relaxing and fulfilling experience suitable for short solo gameplay sessions or group dives with friends, despite shortcomings in story and graphics.

Read full review