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MONSTER

Generation Zero

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Generation Zero
Item: Generation Zero
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, Open World, Mystery, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableMar 26, 2019

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperAvalanche Studios

Overview

Generation Zero is a stealth-action shooter where you wage guerilla warfare against lethal mechanical enemies. Explore a vast open world map inspired by the Swedish Cold War era, take part in the resistance alone or with up to three friends in seamless co-op.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

While Generation Zero’s retrofuturistic 1980s Sweden setting and atmospheric design are praised, its narrative is overwhelmingly criticized for being shallow, incoherent, and emotionally barren, with underdeveloped mystery, repetitive tasks, and minimalistic storytelling that fails to engage.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

50%

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

The story of Generation Zero is praised for its intriguing premise and atmospheric setting, which many critics highlight as a strong foundation. The retrofuturistic 1980s Sweden backdrop, featuring a robot uprising, is noted for its unique charm and nostalgic appeal by reviewers like IGN Spain and GameGrin. Environmental storytelling, though minimalistic, is acknowledged as effective in conveying isolation and mystery. For instance, PlayStation Country commends the narrative’s focus on loneliness through text excerpts and radio broadcasts, while God is a Geek appreciates the survival-driven exploration of a post-apocalyptic world. The game’s emphasis on player interpretation and fragmented clues, akin to titles like Dark Souls, is seen as a deliberate design choice that some find immersive, even if it lacks traditional storytelling elements. However, the majority of critics overwhelmingly criticize the story for its lack of depth, coherence, and engagement. Multiple reviewers, including TrueGaming and Xbox Achievements, describe the narrative as “virtually non-existent” or “barely there,” with a plot that fails to motivate exploration or emotional investment. The reliance on environmental storytelling through sparse documents, audio logs, and fragmented clues is frequently criticized for being underdeveloped and tedious. Jeuxvideo.com and Digitally Downloaded note that the mystery lacks payoff, while Riot Pixels and ZTGD highlight repetitive tasks and monotonous mission structures. The absence of NPCs, cutscenes, and clear objectives further exacerbates the disconnect, with IGN and Cultured Vultures pointing to poor guidance and cryptic translations as major drawbacks. Many feel the narrative feels like an afterthought, undermining the game’s potential. Overall, critics agree that Generation Zero’s story is a significant weakness despite its ambitious setting. While the retrofuturistic premise and atmospheric design are lauded, the lack of a cohesive plot, repetitive mechanics, and minimalistic storytelling leave players disengaged. Reviewers like New Game Network and GameStar acknowledge the game’s unique world-building but emphasize that its narrative fails to deliver satisfying answers or emotional depth. The consensus is that the story prioritizes style over substance, resulting in a fragmented experience that struggles to maintain interest. Though some praise the mystery-driven approach, the overwhelming sentiment is that Generation Zero’s narrative falls short of its potential, leaving players with a sense of emptiness rather than fulfillment.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

A missed opportunity riddled with repetition, flawed mechanics, and tedium—Generation Zero’s co-op and stealth potential is buried beneath its own poor design choices.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

47%

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

The gameplay of Generation Zero receives some praise for its co-op mechanics, stealth elements, and strategic depth, though these aspects are often overshadowed by broader flaws. Critics like Cultured Vultures and PlayStation LifeStyle highlight that co-op play enhances combat and exploration, offering a more engaging experience when tackling challenges with others. The game’s emphasis on resource management, trap usage, and stealth tactics is noted as a unique angle, with GameCrate and Gaming Nexus appreciating the tactical approach to combat against robotic enemies. Additionally, New Game Network acknowledges the atmospheric open world, while PlayStation Country praises the variety of enemy types and strategic combat scenarios. These positives suggest that Generation Zero has potential when executed well, though they are frequently undermined by its technical and design shortcomings. The majority of critics condemn Generation Zero for its repetitive gameplay, unengaging mechanics, and flawed systems. Digitally Downloaded and ZTGD describe the open world as empty and uninviting, with missions feeling monotonous and combat lacking satisfaction due to poor AI and enemy design. GameCrate and Push Square criticize the clunky inventory system, repetitive exploration, and shallow progression, while IGN and TheXboxHub highlight unbalanced combat and frustrating mission structures. Issues like broken co-op mechanics (TrueAchievements, GameSpew), inconsistent enemy behavior (Jeuxvideo.com, IGN), and a lack of meaningful objectives (Xbox Tavern, Gaming Age) further detract from the experience. The game’s reliance on scavenging, repetitive tasks, and minimal player agency leaves many feeling disconnected from its world. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Generation Zero struggles to deliver a cohesive or enjoyable gameplay experience despite its ambitious concepts. While some praise its co-op dynamics, stealth mechanics, and strategic combat, these elements are repeatedly undermined by tedium, poor design choices, and technical flaws. Game Informer and The Games Machine note that the game fails to live up to its potential, with Impulsegamer and M3 emphasizing how repetition and lack of variety render long sessions frustrating. The mixed reception reflects a title that, while occasionally engaging, is weighed down by systemic issues that detract from its core appeal. Most critics agree that Generation Zero is a missed opportunity, offering glimpses of innovation but ultimately falling short of delivering a compelling or polished experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

A missed opportunity riddled with repetition, flawed mechanics, and tedium—Generation Zero’s co-op and stealth potential is buried beneath its own poor design choices.

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Generation Zero dazzles with its 1980s Swedish atmosphere, lush natural vistas, and retro-futuristic charm, but its generic, recycled interiors and technical flaws—like cluttered props and repetitive architecture—sink the experience, leaving a mixed legacy of visionary design marred by monotony.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Generation Zero received praise for their atmospheric 1980s Swedish aesthetic, with critics highlighting the game’s ability to evoke a nostalgic, retro-futuristic vibe. Many reviewers lauded the detailed outdoor environments, such as forests, mountains, and rural landscapes, which were described as "visually striking" (We Got This Covered) and "beautifully rendered" (TheXboxHub). The dynamic weather systems, day/night cycles, and attention to period-specific details—like retro architecture and 1980s-era props—were frequently noted as strengths. For instance, GameGrin praised the serene sunrises and sunsets, while IGN Spain highlighted the varied ecosystems and lighting effects. The game’s use of the Apex Engine also allowed for impressive natural environments, with Multiplayer.it commending its "vast, evocative landscape" and God is a Geek appreciating the "stunning retro-futuristic aesthetic inspired by Simon Stålenhag’s art." These elements collectively created a visually immersive world that resonated with fans of Scandinavian-inspired design. However, the visual design faced significant criticism for its repetitive and generic environments, particularly in interiors and urban areas. Multiple reviewers pointed out that buildings, furniture, and props felt overly recycled, with Impulsegamer (PS4) noting "repetitive, generic designs resembling IKEA furniture" and PC Games criticizing the "generic, repetitive environment" where "identical buildings and loot placement" undermined immersion. Issues like texture clipping, floating objects, and inconsistent details—such as missing bedrooms in family homes—were frequently mentioned (e.g., Xbox Tavern and Destructoid). The lack of architectural variety was another recurring flaw, with DualShockers pointing out that "interiors of buildings are repetitive and lack creativity," while BaziCenter noted the "repetitive architecture" in urban settings. Even the game’s robotic enemies, though praised for their design (e.g., Destructoid), couldn’t compensate for the overall sense of visual monotony in many areas. Overall, critics were divided but largely agreed that Generation Zero’s visuals had strong moments but were hampered by technical and creative shortcomings. While the 1980s Swedish aesthetic and natural environments were widely praised—particularly for their atmospheric depth (GameGrin, TrueAchievements)—the repetitive use of assets, generic interiors, and graphical glitches created a mixed experience. Reviewers like Gaming Nexus and Multiplayer.it acknowledged the game’s technical quality but felt its art direction lacked originality, with MGG calling it a "generic 80s aesthetic copy." Despite these flaws, many saw potential in the game’s visual design, as noted by IGN and Screen Rant, who highlighted its ability to create an immersive, eerie atmosphere. The consensus was that while Generation Zero succeeded in capturing a unique aesthetic, its execution fell short in maintaining variety and polish across its expansive world.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Generation Zero's 80s-inspired synth soundtrack nails nostalgic atmosphere but falters with underwhelming sound effects, limited music variety, and technical glitches, creating a mixed audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The sound design and music of Generation Zero received largely positive feedback, particularly for their evocative 1980s nostalgia and atmospheric contributions. Critics like GameCrate praised the synth soundtrack as "particularly great," drawing comparisons to Stranger Things, while Gaming Nexus highlighted how robot noises and environmental cues created a tense atmosphere aligned with the game’s retro aesthetic. PlaySense and PlayStation Country commended the soundtrack for enhancing mood, noting that intimidating robot sounds and ambient elements like birdsong and wind effectively reinforced the game’s isolation. Cultured Vultures and Everyeye.it emphasized the synthwave music’s role in evoking nostalgia, with the former praising its "80s-inspired" tone and the latter citing eerie robotic movements as effective. The synth-heavy approach was consistently seen as a strength, with Press Start Australia calling it "highly praised" for immersing players in the game’s 1980s setting. However, several critics pointed out shortcomings in sound design beyond the music. Digitally Downloaded criticized underwhelming enemy audio, such as the tank’s lackluster sounds, while Gameblog.fr noted that weapon handling effects lacked polish and realism. MGG called the soundtrack "generic" and unimpressive, arguing it failed to match the 1980s theme despite comparisons to Stranger Things. Generación Xbox lamented the limited music selection (only five tracks) and its failure to match the game’s ambitious tone, while Hooked Gamers mentioned issues with sound direction and loudness during storms. Additionally, PC Gamer highlighted technical glitches like sudden sound cuts that disrupted immersion, and Xbox Tavern noted a lack of detail on ambient sounds beyond retro synth music. These critiques suggest that while the audio design was often praised for its atmosphere, it occasionally fell short in execution. Overall, critics generally agreed that Generation Zero’s soundtrack and sound design were effective at creating an immersive, nostalgic atmosphere, but with notable inconsistencies. The 1980s-inspired synthwave music was a standout element, celebrated by GameCrate, Gaming Nexus, and Press Start Australia for its ability to evoke the era’s aesthetic. However, many felt that sound effects and ambient audio lacked depth or polish, as noted by Digitally Downloaded, Gameblog.fr, and MGG. While some reviewers, like TheXboxHub, praised the "well-designed" audio experience, others, such as Generación Xbox, found the music too limited. The mixed reception underscores a game that prioritized style over technical refinement in its audio design, leaving room for improvement in areas like sound variety and polish despite its strong thematic foundation.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics praise Generation Zero's localization options but find its minimalistic, underwhelming voice acting a missed opportunity, with sparse dialogue and reliance on text undermining immersion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The voice acting in Generation Zero receives mixed but generally neutral feedback, with some positive notes on localization options. Multiple critics, including Jeuxvideo.com (across platforms) and Cultured Vultures, highlight the game’s inclusion of VOSTFR (French voice-over), Swedish dub, and French subtitles as a commendable feature, offering accessibility for non-English speakers. While these language options are praised, they do not extend to detailed critiques of performance quality. JeuxActu acknowledges the minimalistic approach to dialogue, noting that it does not detract from the game’s atmosphere or narrative, suggesting a deliberate design choice rather than a flaw. However, this minimalism is also seen as a limitation by others, with Xbox Achievements and Xbox Tavern pointing out that voice acting is sparse, relying on occasional tape recordings or snippets rather than substantial character dialogue. The negatives focus on the lack of depth and variety in voice acting, which critics argue undermines immersion. JeuxActu criticizes the minimalistic approach as failing to contribute meaningfully to the game’s narrative or atmosphere, while Cultured Vultures notes that environmental voiceovers (e.g., answering machines, radios) lack dedicated character performances and are accompanied by poor English translations, hinting at subpar localization. Xbox Achievements and Xbox Tavern both emphasize the scarcity of spoken dialogue, with only a few Swedish snippets and English subtitles, suggesting a reliance on text over vocal delivery. This absence of robust voice acting is seen as a missed opportunity to enhance storytelling or world-building, particularly in a game that leans heavily on environmental narrative. Overall, critics concur that Generation Zero’s voice acting is understated and functional rather than impactful. While the availability of multiple language options is appreciated by Jeuxvideo.com, the lack of substantial dialogue, limited character performances, and reliance on text-based storytelling are recurring criticisms. JeuxActu and Cultured Vultures frame this as a design choice that prioritizes atmosphere over narrative depth, but others, like Xbox Achievements, view it as a shortcoming. The consensus leans toward neutrality, with the voice acting being neither a strength nor a major flaw, but rather a secondary aspect of the game’s experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise Generation Zero's localization options but find its minimalistic, underwhelming voice acting a missed opportunity, with sparse dialogue and reliance on text undermining immersion.

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Generation Zero's technical flaws—frame drops, bugs, crashes—plagued all platforms, with minor fixes failing to mask its unfinished state and lack of polish.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

63%

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

The technical performance of Generation Zero across platforms received mixed initial feedback, with some critics noting minor positives despite widespread issues. On PC, Vandal highlighted smooth 60fps and 4K support, while Multiplayer.it praised dynamic resolution scaling and stable performance on tested configurations. For Xbox One, SomosXbox noted smooth 1800p/30fps rendering with minimal load times, and PlayStation LifeStyle acknowledged minor fixes in later updates for PS4 Pro. On PS4, PlaySense observed consistent frame rates despite graphical bugs, and some critics like GameStar and Cultured Vultures mentioned that the game remained "playable" despite flaws. These positives suggest that while technical issues were prevalent, the core mechanics and performance were not entirely compromised on any platform. However, the negatives across all platforms were overwhelmingly severe, with critics consistently highlighting instability, bugs, and poor optimization. On PS4, Game Informer, TrueGaming, and Push Square criticized frame rate drops to single digits during combat, broken co-op systems, and persistent glitches like enemies clipping through walls. PC reviews, including those from CGMagazine, MGG, and IGN, emphasized "broken and unfinished" states with texture flaws, AI issues, and crashes, while PC Games noted sound glitches and a buggy UI. For Xbox One, TheXboxHub, Xbox Tavern, and New Game Network reported problems like inventory management failures, enemy AI glitches, and save corruption. These issues were compounded by inconsistent multiplayer experiences, as seen in Jeuxvideo.com’s critique of "unfinished development" and Destructoid’s comparison to an early access title. The technical shortcomings appeared to plague every platform, though their manifestations varied. The overall consensus among critics was that Generation Zero suffered from a lack of polish and optimization, with technical issues significantly detracting from the experience across all platforms. While some praised minor improvements post-launch—such as PlayStation Country’s mention of patches addressing major bugs—most agreed that the game felt incomplete at launch. Critics like GameGrin, JeuxActu, and GameCrate emphasized that glitches and performance hiccups overshadowed the game’s potential, while others like Vandal and Multiplayer.it acknowledged stability in specific areas but noted persistent flaws. The recurring theme was a disconnect between the game’s ambition and its execution, with technical problems undermining immersion and enjoyment. Despite some platform-specific optimizations, the collective sentiment was that Generation Zero required substantial post-launch support to address its core issues.

TL;DR

technical performance

Generation Zero's technical flaws—frame drops, bugs, crashes—plagued all platforms, with minor fixes failing to mask its unfinished state and lack of polish.

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Generation Zero’s replay value is crippled by repetitive gameplay, stagnant progression, and a sterile open world, despite brief praise for co-op camaraderie and atmospheric design—its flaws far outweigh its fleeting charms, leaving most players disengaged after the first run.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

67%

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

The initial reception of Generation Zero’s replay value highlights a few redeeming qualities, particularly in its cooperative multiplayer experience. Critics like BaziCenter and PlayStation Country note that co-op play offers engaging, collaborative combat that can mitigate the game’s shortcomings, suggesting that shared experiences with friends might extend its lifespan. Additionally, some reviewers, such as PC Gamer and TrueAchievements, acknowledge the game’s unique setting and atmospheric design as potential draws, even if they fail to sustain long-term interest. The open-world structure and freedom to explore are occasionally praised for their ambition, with Screen Rant and SomosXbox pointing to the vast map as a minor positive. However, these elements are often overshadowed by the game’s repetitive mechanics and lack of meaningful progression. The negatives surrounding Generation Zero’s replayability are overwhelmingly consistent across reviews. Critics repeatedly cite its monotonous gameplay loop, with GameGrin, Gaming Age, and JeuxActu emphasizing the tedium of repetitive missions, identical level design, and unengaging mechanics. The lack of post-game content and minimal NPC interaction further diminishes long-term appeal, as noted by PlaySense and New Game Network. Technical issues and a sterile open world are also frequently criticized, with Destructoid and IGN abandoning the game due to frustration and monotony. Even co-op, while occasionally praised for adding variety, is seen as insufficient to counterbalance flaws like repetitive tasks and design shortcomings, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and Multiplayer.it. The consensus is that the game’s core systems fail to evolve or reward player investment, leading to a quickly diminishing experience. Overall, the critical consensus overwhelmingly points to Generation Zero having limited replayability, with only minor positives in co-op multiplayer and atmospheric design. While a few reviewers, like PC Gamer and TrueAchievements, suggest that updates or future content might improve its longevity, the majority of critiques—such as those from Push Square, TrueGaming, and ZTGD—paint a picture of a game that struggles to retain players beyond the initial playthrough. The repetitive nature of missions, lack of progression, and technical flaws are consistently cited as deal-breakers, making it unlikely for most players to revisit the world. Even when co-op is praised, as by BaziCenter and SomosXbox, the broader shortcomings of the game’s design and execution prevent it from achieving meaningful replay value. The overwhelming sentiment is that Generation Zero fails to deliver a compelling or sustainable experience, leaving its replayability in question for all but the most forgiving players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

39%

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

The reviews for Generation Zero highlight several positive aspects, particularly its unique atmosphere and visual design. Critics like PC Gamer and Softpedia praise the game’s compelling premise, nostalgic 80s aesthetic, and immersive world-building, with GameCritics noting the "promising concept" despite its flaws. The co-op mechanics and stealth-based survival elements are also frequently lauded, as seen in PlayStation LifeStyle’s acknowledgment of enjoyable co-op experiences and SomosXbox’s emphasis on strong visuals and atmosphere. Additionally, Gaming Nexus appreciates the game’s tactical combat and retro aesthetic, while God is a Geek highlights its creative vision and AI design. These positives suggest that Generation Zero has potential in terms of setting and mechanics, even if they are not fully realized. However, the negatives dominate the critical reception, with most reviewers criticizing the game’s poor execution and technical shortcomings. GameCritics, Game Informer, and Impulsegamer describe it as a "disappointing entry," "unfinished," and a "waste of time," respectively, citing dull gameplay, repetitive mechanics, and a lack of polish. Issues like weak storytelling, unengaging solo play, and technical flaws—such as bugs and unstable systems—are repeatedly mentioned by MGG, Destructoid, and ZTGD. The game’s failure to balance survival and shooter elements, along with its underdeveloped narrative and open-world design, is a common critique, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com and New Game Network. Even reviewers who acknowledge minor strengths, like PlayStation Country’s praise for stealth mechanics, ultimately find the experience hindered by "empty spaces" and "limited variety." The overall consensus among critics is that Generation Zero is a flawed but potentially promising title that fails to deliver on its ambitious ideas. While a few reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and God is a Geek, recognize its originality and atmospheric strengths, the majority argue that its technical issues, repetitive gameplay, and lack of content render it unenjoyable in its current state. GameCritics and Destructoid emphasize the need for patches to address these problems, while others like TheXboxHub and MGG suggest it might appeal to co-op players or those willing to overlook flaws. Despite some optimism about future improvements, the overwhelming sentiment is that Generation Zero falls short of expectations, leaving players with a mixed but largely negative experience.

TL;DR

Generation Zero is a flawed, unpolished mess that squanders its ambitious 80s-inspired atmosphere and co-op potential with repetitive gameplay, technical disasters, and a hollow core. While its visuals and stealth mechanics spark brief moments of promise, the game’s failure to balance survival/shooter elements, deliver coherent storytelling, or fix basic bugs renders it frustrating and unenjoyable—leaving critics divided but mostly disillusioned.

MONSTER

Reviews

96 reviews found

God is a Geek

Mar 25, 2019