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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" captivates with its emotional sibling bond and immersive world-building, earning praise for its themes of family and survival. However, critics slam its superficial plot and lack of emotional depth, leading to a disconnect with the protagonist and predictable twists. While it shows promise, the execution falters, resulting in a mixed reception that highlights its intriguing elements but ultimately falls short in delivering a powerful narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The narrative of "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" has garnered a mix of praise for its engaging premise and thematic depth. Critics like GameStar and WellPlayed highlight the story's emotional resonance, emphasizing the bond between siblings Hanna and Herman as they navigate a politically charged environment. Many reviewers, including Softpedia and GamingTrend, commend the narrative for its immersive qualities and character development, suggesting that the storytelling effectively conveys themes of family, survival, and societal decay. The world-building is also noted as a strong point, with critics like Voxel and TheXboxHub appreciating how the setting itself contributes to the narrative, creating a rich backdrop for the characters' struggles. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the story's execution. Critics such as GameOver.gr and PCGamesN criticize the plot for being superficial and lacking emotional stakes, which leads to a disconnect with the protagonist, Hanna. Eurogamer and Player 2 echo this sentiment, describing the narrative as lacking a strong hook and depth, particularly in the early chapters. Additionally, some critics, like GameMAG and Gamepressure, mention that while the story has engaging elements, it ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying emotional impact or a 'wow' factor, with predictable twists and underdeveloped character arcs. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" has a compelling premise and features moments of strong storytelling, it struggles with consistency in character development and emotional engagement. Reviewers like IGN and GRYOnline.pl recognize the potential of the narrative, yet many agree that it falls short of its aspirations, resulting in a mixed reception. The game is seen as a journey with intriguing elements, but the execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in creating a more profound emotional connection with the audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream impresses with its engaging stealth mechanics and a unique three-character system that enhances cooperative gameplay. Critics praise its puzzle-oriented approach and methodical pacing, but many lament its linearity and lack of dynamic enemy AI, leading to a repetitive experience. While the game excels in atmosphere and character dynamics, it restricts player creativity and often feels predictable, leaving some gamers craving a more open, dynamic stealth experience. Overall, it’s a solid yet constrained entry in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

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 engaging stealth mechanics and character dynamics. Reviewers like GamePro Germany and GamingTrend highlight the effectiveness of the three-character system, where each character possesses unique abilities that enhance cooperative gameplay and strategic depth. Critics such as COGconnected and GameMAG commend the puzzle-oriented approach, noting that the gameplay requires players to utilize these abilities to navigate challenges and avoid detection effectively. The game’s focus on stealth and tactical planning is seen as a strong point, with many reviewers appreciating the methodical pace and the need for careful movement and environmental interaction. The isometric perspective, as mentioned by SomosXbox and Voxel, adds a unique twist to the stealth genre, allowing for a fresh take on traditional mechanics. However, the gameplay is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers, including Finger Guns and Game Informer, point out that the experience can feel linear and restrictive, with limited options for player creativity and improvisation. Critics like Gamepressure and Player 2 express concerns about the lack of dynamic enemy AI and meaningful consequences for being spotted, which can lead to a repetitive experience. The strict adherence to scripted events and the absence of alternative solutions to challenges, as noted by PC Gamer and Movies Games and Tech, contribute to a sense of predictability that some players may find frustrating. Additionally, the pacing can feel slow at times, with some critics mentioning that the introduction of new abilities is delayed, impacting the overall engagement level of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream offers a solid foundation of stealth mechanics and engaging puzzle-solving elements, it suffers from linearity and a lack of player freedom. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and IGN France emphasize that although the game encourages strategic thinking and clever problem-solving, it often confines players to a set path, limiting the potential for creative solutions. The gameplay is generally well-received for its atmosphere and character dynamics, but the repetitive nature and predictable mechanics may leave some players wanting more variety and depth. As such, while the game has its merits, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more open and dynamic stealth experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" dazzles critics with its stunning visuals and artistic flair, powered by Unreal Engine 5. Praise pours in for its expressive character designs and immersive Nordic-steampunk aesthetic, creating a cinematic storytelling experience. However, some reviewers note issues like overly dark areas, distant camera perspectives, and linear levels that may dampen exploration. Despite minor critiques, the consensus is clear: the game's visuals elevate it as a standout indie title, delivering a captivating experience worth experiencing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

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 many critics praising its stunning visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers like Game8 and TheXboxHub highlighted the game's expressive character designs and richly detailed environments, which create a cinematic experience that enhances storytelling. The use of Unreal Engine 5 has been particularly noted for its ability to craft beautifully rendered environments, as seen in the opinions of GAMINGbible and Metro GameCentral, who emphasized the lifelike character animations and detailed scenery. Critics also appreciated the game's unique Nordic and steampunk aesthetic, which contributes to a vibrant and immersive world, as pointed out by Movies Games and Tech and Try Hard Guides. However, some reviewers did express concerns about certain aspects of the visual design. Finger Guns noted that some areas can be too dark, making navigation challenging, while Eurogamer Germany mentioned that the distant camera perspective during dialogues could hinder emotional engagement with the characters. Additionally, GameStar pointed out that the levels are extremely linear, which may detract from the overall exploration experience. Although the majority of critics praised the graphical fidelity, there were mentions of some character models showing budget limitations, as noted by GRYOnline.pl, and repetitive backgrounds that could detract from immersion, as highlighted by XboxEra. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" boasts impressive graphics and visual design, making it a standout title for an indie game. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's artistic direction, detailed environments, and the effective use of lighting and shadow, contributing to a captivating experience. While there are minor criticisms regarding navigation and camera perspectives, the overwhelming sentiment is that the visuals significantly enhance the overall gameplay experience, making it a visually stunning addition to the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream shines with exceptional voice acting and immersive sound design that enhances gameplay, particularly in stealth situations. Critics praise the atmospheric qualities but criticize the soundtrack for being forgettable and lacking impact. Overall, while the game excels in creating tension and immersion, its music falls short of leaving a lasting impression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

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 received considerable praise from various critics, particularly regarding the quality of voice acting and the immersive sound design. Reviewers like GamingTrend and Movies Games and Tech highlighted the exceptional voice performances that enhance character interactions and contribute to the overall immersion of the game. Critics such as MondoXbox and WellPlayed noted that the sound design effectively captures ambient noises and enemy cues, which are crucial for the stealth gameplay, creating a tense atmosphere. Additionally, some critics, like COGconnected and TheXboxHub, appreciated the soundtrack for its epic and atmospheric qualities, which enhance the emotional depth and tension of the game. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the music, which many reviewers found to be less memorable or prominent. Finger Guns and Game8 pointed out that while the sound design is strong, the soundtrack often fades into the background and does not leave a lasting impression. Impulsegamer and Softpedia echoed this sentiment, describing the music as functional but not particularly memorable. Even those who appreciated the soundtrack, like GRYOnline.pl and Vandal, acknowledged that while it complements the atmosphere, it may not stand out as a remarkable score. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream excels in sound design and voice acting, creating an immersive experience that supports the gameplay effectively. However, the music, while sometimes atmospheric, often lacks the memorability that might elevate the overall auditory experience. Critics such as Areajugones and XboxEra emphasized the importance of sound design in enhancing immersion, yet many agree that the soundtrack could benefit from stronger thematic elements to leave a more significant impact on players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream has been widely praised for its emotional depth, especially Rosie Day's portrayal of protagonist Hanna. Critics highlight the strong British cast as a major strength that enhances immersion and character development. However, some note minor issues like overdone performances and camera distance affecting emotional connection. Overall, the voice acting significantly elevates the game's narrative experience, making it a standout feature despite a few critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

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 garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting it as one of the game's strongest aspects. Reviewers such as Impulsegamer and Game8 have specifically noted the outstanding performance of Rosie Day as the protagonist, Hanna, emphasizing her emotional depth and nuanced delivery that fits the narrative's themes. Critics like TheXboxHub and COGconnected have also lauded the quality of the voice acting, pointing out how the strong British cast enhances character interactions and overall immersion. The performances are described as bringing memorable characters to life, effectively adding depth to the narrative and contributing positively to the game's emotional weight, as noted by Areajugones and Movies Games and Tech. Despite the overwhelming positivity, some critics have pointed out minor drawbacks in the voice acting. Finger Guns mentioned that while the performances were generally strong, some were slightly overdone, potentially detracting from the authenticity of certain moments. Player 2 echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the voice acting might have been overly focused on specific themes, such as the street urchin motif. Additionally, Eurogamer Germany raised concerns about the emotional connection being lessened due to camera distance during dialogues, indicating that while the performances were commendable, the presentation could have been improved to enhance player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is of high quality, with many reviewers emphasizing its role in enriching the narrative experience. The majority of critics, including Game Informer and GamingTrend, agree that the voice performances significantly contribute to character development and emotional resonance. While there are some critiques regarding specific performances and thematic focus, the general sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, with the voice acting being a standout feature that enhances the game's immersive storytelling.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

TL;DR: "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" impresses with solid technical performance across Xbox Series X, PS5, and PC. Critics praise its stability and visuals, especially on PC, but some report frustrating checkpoint placements and minor bugs. While not flawless, the game is a commendable indie experience worth playing.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" across various gaming platforms, the consensus is largely positive. For the Xbox Series X, critics like Finger Guns and MondoXbox commend the game for its stable experience and lack of significant technical issues. SomosXbox acknowledges some frustration with checkpoint placements but still finds the overall performance satisfactory. On the PlayStation 5, the performance is similarly praised, with GamePro Germany noting smooth gameplay at 60fps, while Player 2 highlights the polished feel and impressive visual fidelity. The PC version also receives accolades, with Areajugones and GameWatcher emphasizing its stable performance and high graphical fidelity, leveraging Unreal Engine 5 effectively. Overall, the game is recognized for its technical stability across platforms, with a commendable performance that enhances the gameplay experience. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. On Xbox Series X, SomosXbox's mention of checkpoint placement issues suggests that while the performance is stable, it can lead to frustration during gameplay. On the PS5, Impulsegamer reports technical issues like stuttering and bugs, which, although not game-breaking, can disrupt the experience. GameSpew also notes minor bugs, such as disappearing characters during cutscenes. For the PC version, while the majority of reviews are positive, some critics, including Game Informer and Voxel, point out issues with checkpoint placements and automatic saves that can lead to frustrating situations. These negatives indicate that while the game performs well technically, there are still areas that could use improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" delivers a solid technical performance, though not without its flaws. The Xbox Series X and PS5 versions are generally stable, with minor issues that do not detract significantly from the experience. The PC version stands out for its high fidelity and smooth performance, though it also faces criticism regarding certain mechanics and save systems. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and Metro GameCentral highlight the game’s commendable technical achievements for an independent title, suggesting that despite its shortcomings, it remains a worthy experience for players across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream has some replay value due to collectibles and narrative depth, enticing players to explore. However, critics overwhelmingly agree it suffers from linearity and basic mechanics that lead to boredom, offering little incentive for multiple playthroughs beyond item collection. Overall, it's an engaging one-time experience, lacking the complexity and variety needed for lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The reviews for Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream reveal a few positive aspects regarding its replay value. Several critics, such as Impulsegamer and PlayStation Universe, highlight the presence of collectibles and narrative depth that can entice players to revisit the game. Impulsegamer notes that while the game has a runtime of 8-10 hours, the inclusion of collectibles invites players to explore further, suggesting a potential for replayability. Additionally, GamePro Germany mentions that the challenge of mastering levels may encourage players to replay sections, indicating that there is some merit in revisiting the game for those who enjoy honing their skills. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream suffers from a significant lack of replay value. Finger Guns and Game8 emphasize the game's linearity and straightforward mechanics, which contribute to a sense of boredom and limited incentive to return after the initial playthrough. Critics like GameMAG and PC Games echo this sentiment, pointing out the rigid structure and lack of diverse problem-solving routes that hinder replayability. Even those who appreciate the collectibles, like COGconnected and IGN Deutschland, acknowledge that the primary motivation for replaying is often just to collect missed items rather than to experience varied gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream provides an engaging first experience, its linear gameplay and lack of alternative solutions severely limit its replay value. Most reviewers, including GameSpew and Metro GameCentral, agree that the game is designed more for a one-time experience, with minimal reasons to return aside from collecting items. While there are some elements that could encourage exploration, such as collectibles and narrative depth, the rigid mechanics and straightforward gameplay leave many players wanting more complexity and freedom in future installments.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream," it is evident that critics largely appreciate the game for its strong visual presentation, engaging narrative, and unique gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as MondoXbox and TheXboxHub, highlight the captivating story and artistic direction, which contribute to a memorable gaming experience. Critics like GameMAG and GameSpew commend the game's ability to blend stealth mechanics with a rich narrative, while others, including COGconnected and GamePro Germany, emphasize the successful combination of storytelling and gameplay. The game's atmospheric design and immersive qualities have garnered praise from multiple sources, making it a noteworthy debut for the indie studio River End Games. However, the reviews also point out several shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. A recurring theme among critics is the game's linearity and lack of depth, which some, like Finger Guns and Eurogamer, argue may leave players wanting more in terms of gameplay variety and character development. Additionally, issues such as pacing, AI problems, and a perfunctory story are mentioned by critics like GameOver.gr and PC Gamer, suggesting that while the game excels in certain areas, it falls short in others. This mixed reception indicates that while the game is enjoyable, it may not fully satisfy all players, particularly those seeking a more complex or challenging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" is a commendable indie title that successfully delivers a captivating narrative and solid gameplay, despite its limitations. Reviewers like Areajugones and IGN Deutschland highlight the game's potential and strong execution, while others acknowledge its appeal to fans of stealth and narrative-driven experiences. While some critics express concerns over its linearity and pacing, the majority agree that the game is a worthwhile adventure, particularly for those who appreciate story-rich stealth experiences. As a debut title, it showcases River End Games' potential and creativity, leaving many hopeful for future projects from the studio.

TL;DR

"Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream" impresses with its stunning visuals, captivating narrative, and innovative gameplay, earning praise from critics for its atmospheric design and engaging story. However, it suffers from linearity, pacing issues, and a lack of depth, leaving some players wanting more. Overall, it’s a commendable debut from River End Games, appealing to fans of narrative-driven stealth, but may not fully satisfy those seeking complexity.

MONSTER

Reviews

82 reviews found

100

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jul 14, 2025