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Eternal Strands

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Eternal Strands
Item: Eternal Strands
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Simulation, Single Player

AvailableJan 28, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperYellow Brick Games

Overview

Stranded II washes you onto a deserted island with nothing but your wits and a few basic items. By hunting, gathering, crafting, and building, you must attempt to survive and eventually make it back home.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics are divided on Eternal Strands' story. Some praise its rich lore, engaging narrative, and deep worldbuilding, while others criticize its static drawings, heavy-handed writing, and lack of originality. Positive points include mysteries and magical elements, but negative feedback focuses on immersion issues and character development. Players seeking exploration and rich lore might enjoy it, but those looking for immersive storytelling may be disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

14%

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

The story of Eternal Strands has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Hobby Consolas and Impulsegamer praise the game for its rich lore, deep worldbuilding, and engaging narrative that keeps players immersed in the fantasy universe. Hobby Consolas specifically mentions the mysteries and temporal cliffhangers that add layers of intrigue to the storyline, reminiscent of popular fantasy franchises like Dragon Age. Additionally, XGN appreciates the introduction of magical elements and a paranormal universe, adding a sense of wonder and discovery to the narrative. On the other hand, several critics, including IGN Benelux and Player 2, criticize the storytelling methods used in Eternal Strands. IGN Benelux points out that the static drawings used for storytelling lack immersion and depth, hindering the player's ability to fully engage with the narrative. Player 2 echoes this sentiment, mentioning that the heavy-handed writing and excessive terminology make it challenging to access the story, leading to a cumbersome delivery that may deter some players. RPG Fan also highlights the lack of originality and depth in the hero's journey, noting that Brynn's character arc feels fixed despite dialogue choices, which can limit the player's sense of agency and impact on the story. Overall, the consensus among critics is divided regarding the story of Eternal Strands. While some reviewers appreciate the rich lore, worldbuilding, and engaging narrative, others find fault in the presentation, delivery, and lack of originality. The positive aspects of the story, such as the deep worldbuilding and engaging mysteries, are offset by the negative aspects, including the cumbersome delivery and lack of depth in character development. Players looking for a fantasy adventure with a focus on exploration and rich lore may find enjoyment in Eternal Strands, but those seeking a more immersive and original storytelling experience may be left wanting more.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Critics' opinions on the gameplay of Eternal Strands vary, with some praising its fun spells, inventive magic, and climbing system, while others criticize limited combat mechanics and unsatisfying melee combat. Overall, the majority of reviewers appreciate the unique combat system, diverse combat options, and blend of exploration and resource management, making it a noteworthy action-adventure title despite some shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Eternal Strands are quite varied, showcasing a mix of positive and negative aspects. GamesRadar+ highlights the fun spells that enhance combat and the inventive magic, while also praising the climbing system borrowed from Breath of the Wild for adding to the exploration experience. Impulsegamer echoes this sentiment by appreciating the unique gameplay mechanics, balanced exploration, combat, and resource management, as well as the diverse combat options offered by the magic system. Player 2 also commends the game for providing a standard action-adventure experience with unique combat mechanics, diverse weapons, spells, crafting, and environmental interactions, which collectively add depth and variety to the gameplay. On the other hand, Hobby Consolas and IGN Benelux express concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay. Hobby Consolas acknowledges the creative gameplay experience achieved by blending elements from popular titles but criticizes the combat mechanics for feeling limited and lacking depth. RPG Fan points out that while the combat system offers variety with magic and melee options, the melee combat feels unsatisfying and encounters become tedious due to imbalance. IGN Benelux is particularly critical, describing the gameplay as involving exploring empty and lifeless areas, completing boring missions, and engaging in repetitive and unexciting combat. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a positive view of the gameplay in Eternal Strands, with a focus on the innovative combat system, diverse combat options, and the blend of exploration and resource management. Despite some criticisms regarding limited combat mechanics, unsatisfying melee combat, and repetitive encounters, the majority of reviewers appreciate the unique elements, such as climbing epic foes, diverse enemies based on elements, and the creative use of magical powers in battles. The game seems to offer a mix of engaging gameplay features that cater to different preferences, ultimately making it a noteworthy title within the action-adventure genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Eternal Strands for its colorful and engaging visuals, vibrant environments, and effective use of color, drawing inspiration from Zelda games. However, some critics note inconsistencies in cutscenes, lack of detail in character design, and hollow environments. Overall, the game receives positive feedback for its charming art style and engaging aesthetics, despite areas for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

25%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

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

The critics generally agree that Eternal Strands boasts several positive aspects in terms of its graphics and visual design. GamesRadar+ appreciates the colorful and cartoony aesthetic of the fantasy world, while Hobby Consolas finds the vivid colors and art style charming and engaging. Player 2 highlights the unique and vibrant environments, visually appealing characters, and effective use of color. Additionally, XGN notes the inspiration from recent Zelda games and the presence of diverse locations, adding to the visual appeal of the game. On the other hand, there are some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Eternal Strands. God is a Geek points out inconsistencies in certain cutscenes and a lack of detail in character design in some sequences. IGN Benelux criticizes the environments for being technically well-designed but lacking believability and variety, describing them as hollow and soulless. RPG Fan mentions a disparity between hand-drawn character portraits and 3D models, indicating a lack of cohesion in the visual presentation. Overall, while there are mixed opinions on specific aspects of the graphics and visual design of Eternal Strands, the consensus among the critics leans towards the positive side. The game is praised for its colorful and engaging art style, vibrant environments, and effective use of color to create a visually appealing world. However, criticisms regarding inconsistencies in certain cutscenes, character design, and environmental believability suggest room for improvement in certain areas. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of critics appreciate the overall visual presentation of the game, with its unique charm and engaging aesthetics standing out as key strengths.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Eternal Strands on PS5 runs decently with occasional frame drops, offering an enjoyable experience. However, critics point out issues like loose character control, frame rate inconsistencies, camera glitches, and floaty combat mechanics, impacting gameplay. While playable, the game suffers from technical flaws that need improvement for a better overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

83%

Negative (0-49)

17%

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

In terms of the positives for the technical performance of Eternal Strands on the PS5, reviewers noted that the game runs relatively well with occasional frame drops, indicating a generally stable performance. IGN Benelux highlighted that the game runs smoothly on a PS5 Pro despite some minor hiccups, showcasing the potential for an enjoyable gameplay experience. Additionally, Hobby Consolas mentioned that while not exceptional, the technical performance is not a complete disaster, suggesting that the game is still playable on the platform. On the flip side, the negatives for the technical performance on the PS5 were also apparent. Critics such as Impulsegamer and RPG Fan pointed out issues with character control feeling loose or sluggish, occasional frame rate inconsistencies, and camera glitches during climbing sequences. God is a Geek also criticized the floaty combat mechanics and inconsistent enemy HP, indicating significant technical shortcomings that impact the overall gameplay experience. XGN further highlighted issues with complex controller layouts, camera angles causing visibility problems, and unclear quest tracking, which collectively contribute to a less than optimal technical performance on the PS5. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the technical performance of Eternal Strands on various gaming platforms is mixed. While there are some positive aspects such as relatively stable performance and playable experience on the PS5, the game is plagued by various technical issues across platforms. The floaty combat mechanics, inconsistent frame rates, buggy behavior, and control issues detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics like Impulsegamer and XGN emphasized the presence of these technical flaws, indicating a need for significant improvements to enhance the gameplay experience for players. Despite some redeeming qualities, the technical performance of Eternal Strands falls short of expectations, leaving room for enhancement in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Eternal Strands impresses with replay value due to engaging gameplay and diverse playstyles, offering additional content and challenging progression. However, concerns arise over repetitive missions, uninspiring combat, and lackluster boss battles. While some critics praise its depth, others call for improvements to enhance replayability. Overall, mixed reviews suggest potential for enjoyment through exploration of playstyles, but enhancements are needed for a truly compelling replay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

13%

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted aspects of Eternal Strands that contribute to its replay value. Hobby Consolas pointed out the additional side quests, boss battles, collectibles, and hidden content that extend the gameplay experience, making it more enticing for players to revisit the game. Impulsegamer praised the engaging gameplay loop, variety of mechanics, upgrade systems, and dialogue choices that offer replay value for different playstyles. XGN also noted the challenging progression system, where defeating Arks to earn Strands for new magical powers provides multiple ways to approach combat and encourages experimentation with abilities, enhancing the game's replayability. On the negative side, some critics raised concerns that could potentially hinder the replay value of Eternal Strands. GamesRadar+ and IGN Benelux both mentioned repetitive missions, uninspiring combat mechanics, and lackluster boss battles as factors that may deter players from replaying the game. RPG Fan expressed disappointment in the uninteresting upgrade system for gear and highlighted the potential need for post-launch patches, which could affect the overall experience and replayability of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding the replay value of Eternal Strands appears to be mixed. While some critics like Hobby Consolas and Impulsegamer appreciated the additional content, engaging gameplay mechanics, and variety of playstyles that enhance replayability, others such as GamesRadar+, IGN Benelux, and RPG Fan pointed out issues like repetitive gameplay elements, uninspiring combat mechanics, and potential need for improvements that may limit the game's replay value. Despite differing opinions, it seems that Eternal Strands offers a decent amount of replay value for players who enjoy exploring different playstyles and delving into additional content, but improvements in certain areas could further enhance its overall replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

41%

Mixed (50-79)

57%

Negative (0-49)

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

Eternal Strands has garnered praise from critics for its innovative ideas, visually appealing design, and charming adventure elements. Hobby Consolas commends the game for its innovative ideas and visually appealing design, highlighting the bold debut project's potential for improvement through experience and ambition. Impulsegamer also appreciates the game's entertaining and clever nature, noting its meticulous blend of mechanics that help it stand out among established titles in the industry. The game's mix of magic, weather effects, and elemental interactions, as mentioned by XGN, showcases the developers' ambition and creativity, adding depth to the gameplay experience. On the flip side, Eternal Strands faces criticism for its flaws and shortcomings, such as bloat, repetition, limited combat mechanics, technical issues, and control problems. GamesRadar+ points out the game's bloat and repetition, which hinder the overall experience despite the fun behemoth battling and interesting spells. IGN Benelux expresses disappointment in the game falling short of its ambitious ideas and failing to deliver an enjoyable gameplay experience, especially when compared to its inspirations like Monster Hunter and Breath of the Wild. XGN notes that while the game combines ambitious concepts, it struggles in execution, particularly in smooth gameplay and controls, highlighting areas that need improvement for a more polished experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Eternal Strands is a promising yet flawed debut title with potential for growth and enhancement. While the game showcases cool mechanics, concepts, and a charming adventure, it may require post-launch improvements, as suggested by RPG Fan, to deliver a better overall experience. Despite its shortcomings, several critics, including God is a Geek and Player 2, find the game to offer a worthwhile experience with areas for improvement, indicating that with enhancements, Eternal Strands could reach incredible heights and potentially pave the way for a stronger sequel that builds upon its strengths.

TL;DR

Critics praise Eternal Strands for its innovative ideas and visually appealing design, but note flaws like bloat, repetition, and control issues. While the game shows promise and potential for growth, it falls short in execution compared to its inspirations. With post-launch improvements, it could reach incredible heights and pave the way for a stronger sequel.

MONSTER

Reviews

107 reviews found

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands is an entertaining and clever game with a meticulous blend of mechanics, despite some control and design issues. It stands out among established titles in the industry.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands is a charming adventure with ambition and some wobbly mechanics. It offers a worthwhile experience for those looking for a fantasy world to explore.

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XGN

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands is a daring debut title by Yellow Brick Games, combining ambitious concepts with influences from popular games. While the game offers an interesting mix of magic, weather effects, and elemental interactions, it falls slightly short in execution, particularly in smooth gameplay and controls.

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Player 2

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands has areas for improvement but offers a lot to enjoy, making it a worthwhile 20-25 hour experience. With enhancements, it has the potential to reach incredible heights.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands is praised for its innovative ideas and visually appealing design, but criticized for its limited combat mechanics and technical shortcomings. The game is seen as a bold debut project with potential for improvement through experience and ambition.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Promising effort with cool mechanics and concepts, but may require waiting for post-launch improvements for a better experience.

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GamesRadar+

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands offers flawed but fun behemoth battling with interesting spells and combat mechanics, but is bogged down by bloat and repetition. Shows potential for a sequel to improve upon its strengths.

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IGN Benelux

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2025

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

Eternal Strands falls short of its ambitious ideas and fails to deliver an enjoyable gameplay experience despite the talent involved in its development. The game struggles to compete with its inspirations like Monster Hunter, Shadow of the Colossus, and Breath of the Wild.

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100

Try Hard Guides

Jan 28, 2025

Eternal Strands serves as an incredible debut for Yellow Brick Games, stunning with its incredible visuals and wowing with its great magic system and enthralling gameplay. Try Hard Guides received a PC review code for this game.

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Rectify Gaming

Jan 29, 2025

Eternal Strands is a triumph of game design, blending the best elements of Monster Hunter and Shadow of the Colossus into a unique and unforgettable experience. Its rich narrative, innovative combat system, and breathtaking world make it a must-play for fans of the action-adventure genre. Yellow Brick Games has set a high bar with their debut title, and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next. The Enclave awaits, and it’s a journey you won’t want to miss. Developer – Yellow Brick Games Publisher – Yellow Brick Games Platforms – Xbox Series S|X , PS5, PC (Reviewed) Review copy given by Developer Eternal Strands, the debut title from Yellow Brick Games, is a fantasy action-adventure game that feels like a love letter to some of the most iconic titles in the genre while carving out its own unique identity.

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