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Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream
Item: Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Stealth, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJul 15, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperRiver End Games

Overview

Experience an isometric, narrative-driven stealth game set in the stunning city of Eriksholm. When Hanna’s brother, Herman, disappears and the police begin to pursue him, her search sets off a chain of catastrophic events that will not only alter their lives but also the destiny of the entire city. Join your allies, outsmart relentless enemies, and use your cunning to uncover the truth behind Herman’s disappearance — where greater powers are at play than you ever imagined. Follow Hanna’s adventure through the vibrant streets of Eriksholm, a sprawling Nordic city inspired by the elegance and grit of early 1900s Scandinavia. In this world, every shadow offers a hiding place, and every corner hides a new challenge. Allies and quick reflexes are your greatest tools as you unravel the city's secrets and outsmart your pursuers.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" features an immersive narrative centered on Hanna's quest for her brother, praised for its rich world and thematic depth. However, critics note significant flaws, including underdeveloped characters and a superficial plot, leading to a lack of emotional impact. While the game captivates with engaging themes, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently powerful experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" highlight several positive aspects of its narrative. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and TheSixthAxis, emphasize the immersive and engaging nature of the story, which centers around Hanna's quest to find her missing brother, Herman, in a richly detailed world. Critics like GameMAG and Areajugones appreciate the depth added by character interactions and environmental storytelling, which enrich the narrative and create a sense of urgency and emotional weight. The thematic exploration of family, survival, and societal decay resonates well with several reviewers, including GamingBolt and GAMES.CH, who note the personal and political layers that enhance the overall experience. However, the critics also point out significant shortcomings in the narrative. Many, including Eurogamer and PCGamesN, argue that the story lacks a substantial emotional impact and depth, with some characters feeling underdeveloped or unsympathetic. GameOver.gr criticizes the plot for being superficial, while PC Gamer mentions a decline in narrative quality as it shifts focus from broader societal issues to a singular conflict with a villain, which detracts from the initial intrigue. Additionally, some critics, like Checkpoint Gaming and PC Gamer, note that certain plot elements, such as the motivations of antagonists, are underexplored, leading to a less satisfying resolution. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" presents a compelling narrative framework with engaging themes and well-structured storytelling. While many reviewers appreciate the immersive world and emotional undertones, there is a shared sentiment that the execution falters in terms of character development and emotional stakes. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Loot Level Chill acknowledge the narrative's potential but highlight that it does not fully capitalize on its strengths, leading to a mixed reception. Ultimately, while the game offers a rich story that captivates players, it struggles to deliver a consistently impactful emotional experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream impresses with its stealth mechanics and character-driven puzzles, earning praise for tactical depth and intelligent AI. However, critics slam its lack of innovation and freedom, calling gameplay routine and linear. While it's a solid choice for stealth fans, those craving dynamic, creative experiences may find it wanting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream has garnered praise from several critics for its emphasis on stealth mechanics and environmental puzzles. Reviewers like COGconnected and GAMINGbible highlight the engaging nature of controlling multiple characters, each with unique abilities that enhance the puzzle-solving experience. Critics such as TheSixthAxis and Eurogamer commend the intelligent enemy AI and balanced difficulty, which encourages tactical planning and clever problem-solving. Additionally, the game is noted for its strategic depth, with Areajugones and Loot Level Chill emphasizing the importance of precise timing and observation, making each decision impactful in navigating the game’s structured environments. However, the game has faced criticism for its lack of innovation and freedom in gameplay. GameMAG and GameStar point out that while the stealth-action mechanics are solid, they often feel derivative and lack unique solutions to challenges. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and PCGamesN describe the gameplay as somewhat casual and routine, suggesting that it may not appeal to players seeking a more dynamic experience. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Multiplayer.it and Worth Playing, mention that strict failure conditions and linear level design can lead to frustration, particularly for less experienced players or those looking for more creative freedom in their approach to problem-solving. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream offers a well-crafted stealth experience with engaging puzzle elements, but it falls short in terms of innovation and player agency. While many reviewers appreciate the tactical depth and character dynamics, others express concerns about the game’s linearity and predictability. As noted by critics like GamingBolt and KonsoliFIN, the gameplay is methodical and requires strategic planning, but the lack of creative freedom and unique solutions may limit its appeal to a broader audience. The game is likely to resonate well with fans of traditional stealth mechanics, but those seeking a fresh take on the genre might find it lacking.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream wows critics with its breathtaking graphics and intricate environments, powered by Unreal Engine 5. Described as a "sublime painting," the game’s visuals create an immersive experience, showcasing detailed, authentic pre-war Scandinavian settings. While some issues like camera angles and repetitive backgrounds have been noted, they don’t overshadow the overall acclaim. The game excels in visual design, promising a stunning experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising its stunning visuals and intricate environments. Reviewers such as COGconnected and GAMINGbible highlight the game's use of Unreal Engine 5, which contributes to the beautifully crafted isometric world that enhances gameplay. TheSixthAxis describes the visuals as a "sublime painting," emphasizing the intricate details that populate diverse environments. Critics like Areajugones and Checkpoint Gaming commend the breathtaking visuals and photorealistic cinematics that create an immersive experience, while Eurogamer appreciates the well-crafted environments inspired by pre-war Scandinavia, which feel lived-in and authentic. The consistent mention of the game's impressive art direction and the effective use of lighting and color by critics like Loot Level Chill further underscores the game's aesthetic achievements. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out a few shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. GameOver.gr notes that while the environments are well-designed, camera issues can sometimes hinder gameplay, suggesting that the visual experience may not always translate seamlessly into player interaction. Additionally, Meristation mentions that the top-down perspective might limit the visual impact of the detailed environments, indicating that the isometric view can sometimes detract from the game's graphical strengths. XboxEra also points out that while the overall visual quality is high, backgrounds can become repetitive, which may detract from the immersive experience that many other critics have praised. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a visually stunning experience that enhances both the narrative and gameplay. The majority of reviewers, including PC Gamer and Try Hard Guides, appreciate the game's detailed environments and character animations, showcasing the effective use of Unreal Engine 5. While there are some criticisms regarding camera issues and repetitive backgrounds, these do not significantly overshadow the game's overall visual appeal. The strong positive sentiment reflects a well-crafted visual experience that many players are likely to enjoy.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" scores high for its immersive sound design and emotional music, with standout voice acting praised by critics. The rich soundtrack deepens the game's atmosphere, but some inconsistencies and limited presence in parts leave room for improvement. Overall, a solid audio experience, but with potential for refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" have garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the overall gaming experience. COGconnected commends the "epic score" that effectively captures the mood and adds emotional depth, which is echoed by SECTOR.sk, who notes that the musical score complements the game's atmosphere. The voice acting has also been a standout feature, with multiple reviewers like TheSixthAxis and PC Gamer emphasizing its quality and contribution to character believability. Critics such as Areajugones and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the immersive sound design, with unique sounds for different surfaces and ambient dialogue that enrich the game's world. The melancholic soundtrack, as noted by GAMES.CH, further enhances the emotional tone of the narrative, making it a key aspect of the game's atmosphere. Despite the overall acclaim, some critiques point to inconsistencies in the sound design. Gamesurf mentions that while the sound design is immersive, it can feel uneven, with certain areas lacking the richness found in others. Meristation also notes that while the soundtrack is commendable, it is not prominently featured throughout the game, suggesting that its impact may be limited in some contexts. This unevenness in sound design could detract from the immersive experience that many critics laud, indicating that while the audio elements are strong, there are areas for improvement. The overall consensus among critics is that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" excels in its sound design and music, particularly through its impressive voice acting and effective musical score. The positive sentiments regarding the emotional depth provided by the soundtrack and the immersive qualities of the sound design suggest that these elements are integral to the game's success. However, the noted inconsistencies in sound richness and the limited presence of the soundtrack in certain sections indicate room for growth. Critics like Worth Playing and XboxEra encapsulate this sentiment, recognizing the solid audio experience while also hinting at areas that could benefit from further refinement.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" boasts outstanding voice acting that enriches the game's emotional depth and storytelling. Critics hail the performances as "excellent," especially highlighting Hanna's impactful portrayal. While minor critiques about excessive hinting exist, they pale in comparison to the overall acclaim, making the voice work a standout feature that immerses players in the game's narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's emotional depth and narrative authenticity. Reviewers like COGconnected and TheSixthAxis praised the performances as "excellent," noting how the voice acting brings characters to life and adds layers of personality and complexity. Areajugones emphasized that the voice work elevates key moments in the story, enhancing its cinematic quality. Similarly, GamingBolt and Loot Level Chill appreciated the strong vocal performances and the hyper-real motion capture, which together create a compelling storytelling experience. The portrayal of characters, especially Hanna, has been frequently highlighted as a standout, with critics from Gamepressure and Gamesurf noting her performance as particularly impactful. Despite the general acclaim, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. GamingBolt mentioned that while the voice acting is strong, there are instances of excessive hinting from characters that can detract from the overall experience. This suggests that while the performances are generally well-received, there are moments where the dialogue may feel forced or overly explanatory. However, such critiques are relatively sparse compared to the overall praise, indicating that any negatives are more about fine-tuning than fundamental flaws in the voice acting. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" is of high quality, significantly enhancing the game's immersive experience. Reviewers like PC Gamer and Try Hard Guides echoed sentiments about the performances being "phenomenal" and "natural," contributing positively to the overall narrative. With the majority of critics agreeing on the excellence of the voice work, it is clear that the vocal performances are a standout feature of the game, effectively drawing players into its richly crafted world.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" shines technically on PS5 and PC, praised for its stability and stunning visuals via Unreal Engine 5. Critics commend its performance at max settings, even on Steam Deck. However, some frustrations arise from gameplay requiring quick reflexes, lack of a quicksave feature, and minor technical glitches. Overall, while the game excels, there's room for improvement in gameplay mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" has generally received positive feedback across various platforms, particularly on the PS5 and PC. GAMINGbible praised the PS5 version for running flawlessly, suggesting a strong level of stability and performance. On the PC front, multiple critics echoed similar sentiments, with Areajugones highlighting the game's smooth operation and impressive visuals due to Unreal Engine 5. GamingBolt noted that the game performs consistently well at maximum settings and 1440p resolution, while Meristation emphasized its technical prowess, especially for an independent production. Moreover, Worth Playing reported good performance on the Steam Deck, indicating versatility across devices. Despite the overall positive reception, some criticisms emerged, particularly for the PC version. Checkpoint Gaming pointed out that certain gameplay segments could lead to frustration due to the need for quick reflexes, which may detract from the experience. GameStar mentioned the absence of a quicksave feature, which could be a drawback for players seeking convenience. Additionally, while Gamepressure acknowledged minor technical glitches, they were deemed non-disruptive, suggesting that while performance is solid, it is not without its hiccups. SECTOR.sk also noted clunky controls at times, indicating that there are areas for improvement in user experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" delivers a commendable technical performance across platforms, with particular strengths on PC and PS5. The game is recognized for its stability and visual fidelity, with many reviewers like XboxEra affirming its optimization, even expressing minimal concerns regarding console performance. However, some critics highlighted areas for improvement, especially in terms of gameplay mechanics and features like quicksave. Overall, the technical performance is characterized as solid, with room for enhancements that could elevate the gaming experience even further.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream garners mixed reviews on replay value. While some critics appreciate collectibles and achievements that encourage exploration, the game's linear structure and repetitive dialogue hinder its replayability. Many reviewers agree it’s a one-and-done experience, with limited incentive for returning. Despite engaging gameplay and narrative depth, the consensus is clear: players are unlikely to revisit due to its rigid design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

100%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream reveal a few positive aspects that some critics appreciate. For instance, COGconnected notes that while the linear gameplay may not inherently encourage replayability, the presence of collectibles scattered throughout the game provides a degree of incentive for exploration. Similarly, TheSixthAxis highlights that despite the game's brevity, its engaging gameplay and absence of filler content make it a compelling experience that players might want to revisit. Additionally, SECTOR.sk points out that the inclusion of various achievements can offer players additional challenges, potentially enticing them to replay the game in pursuit of these goals. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, primarily due to its linear structure. GameMAG emphasizes that the structured gameplay and lack of diverse problem-solving routes severely limit replayability. Critics like GameStar and Checkpoint Gaming echo this sentiment, pointing out that the repetitive dialogue and casual experience may deter players from wanting to experience the game again. Furthermore, Gamepressure and GAMES.CH reinforce the notion that the game is designed for a mostly one-and-done experience, with limited opportunities for exploration or varied gameplay scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream suffers from low replay value due to its linear design and structured gameplay. While there are elements like collectibles and achievements that might encourage some players to explore the game further, the majority of reviewers agree that the experience is primarily focused on a single playthrough. Critics such as Areajugones and Multiplayer.it highlight the narrative depth and the challenge of gameplay, but these aspects do not significantly enhance the game's replayability. In conclusion, while the game may offer a satisfying experience during the initial playthrough, the lack of flexibility and varied gameplay routes appears to limit its appeal for repeat visits.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its immersive storytelling, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. COGconnected describes the game as a "confident, immersive, story-driven adventure," highlighting the successful integration of narrative, gameplay, and presentation. Similarly, GAMINGbible calls it "exceptional," emphasizing the thoughtful gameplay and captivating world, while Areajugones commends its "masterful blend of deep narrative" and refined mechanics. The game is often noted for its high production values, with XboxEra mentioning its intriguing narrative and solid gameplay mechanics, making it a worthy addition to any gaming backlog. Critics like Loot Level Chill and Meristation also recognize the game's artistic approach and technical achievements, further solidifying its appeal as a standout indie title. However, several reviewers point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. GameMAG mentions pacing issues and a lack of task variety, which could hinder player engagement over time. Eurogamer and GameOver.gr both criticize the story's execution, with Eurogamer labeling it as "perfunctory" and GameOver.gr noting weak character development. Additionally, PC Gamer highlights the linear gameplay and lack of creative freedom, suggesting that these limitations prevent the game from reaching its full potential. Critics like PCGamesN express disappointment in the storytelling, describing it as uninspired and derivative, indicating that while the game has strong elements, it also has significant areas for improvement. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is a compelling stealth adventure that excels in narrative and visual presentation but is hampered by pacing issues and a lack of depth in its gameplay and story. Many reviewers, including TheSixthAxis and GamingBolt, appreciate the unique approach to stealth and puzzle-solving, while others, like KonsoliFIN and GameStar, recognize the game's conventional mechanics. Overall, the game is recommended for fans of the genre, especially those who value story-driven experiences, but it also leaves room for future iterations to address its narrative and gameplay shortcomings.

TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream impresses with its immersive storytelling, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, earning praise from critics as a standout indie title. However, it struggles with pacing issues, linear gameplay, and weak character development, leading some to label its narrative as uninspired. While recommended for fans of story-driven adventures, the game has notable shortcomings that could be improved in future iterations.

MONSTER

Reviews

53 reviews found

100

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jul 14, 2025