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MONSTER

Ghostrunner

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

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Platformer, Shooter, Fighting, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 27, 2020

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperONE MORE LEVEL

Overview

Ascend humanity’s last remaining shelter, a great tower-city. The tower is torn by violence, poverty and chaos. Conquer your enemies, discover the secrets of the superstructure and your own origin and obtain the power to challenge The Keymaster.

Elsewhere

7.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner's story, set in a dystopian future, has been praised for its themes of rebellion and transhumanism, with solid execution and voice acting. However, critics largely find it predictable and filled with clichés, suffering from shallow characters and a narrative that feels secondary to gameplay. Ultimately, it fails to leave a lasting impression, serving more as a backdrop than a standout story in the cyberpunk genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Ghostrunner has been met with a mix of appreciation for its thematic elements and its setting. Several critics, such as God is a Geek and IGN, noted the compelling backdrop of a dystopian future where humanity is confined to a colossal tower ruled by a tyrant. The narrative provides a solid framework for the gameplay, with some reviewers like GameSkinny and SpazioGames acknowledging the intriguing themes of rebellion and transhumanism that are woven throughout the plot. Moreover, the storytelling is often praised for its execution, with IGN highlighting that the narrative is well-told and features respectable voice acting. Critics like Finger Guns and Atomix also appreciated the urgency and engagement that the story brings to the gameplay experience. However, the negatives surrounding the story are quite pronounced among the reviews. Many critics, including Hey Poor Player and Shindig, described the plot as forgettable, predictable, and filled with cyberpunk clichés. The characters, particularly the antagonist Mara, were criticized for their lack of depth and originality, leading to an overall uninspiring narrative experience. Critics like New Game Network and Xbox Tavern echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the story fails to engage players fully, often receding into the background during gameplay. The reliance on voiceovers and radio communications, as noted by IGN Japan and GameSpot, further detracts from the overall narrative coherence, making it challenging for players to remain invested in the story. In conclusion, while Ghostrunner's story has moments of intrigue and thematic depth, the overall consensus among critics leans towards disappointment due to its predictability and lack of character development. Many reviewers, such as PCMag and MGG Spain, emphasized that the narrative serves primarily as a backdrop for the action rather than standing out on its own. The game is often described as a classic example of the cyberpunk genre, but it struggles to break new ground, resulting in a story that, while competent, fails to leave a lasting impression on players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner's gameplay is a thrilling mix of fast-paced parkour and sword combat, earning praise for its adrenaline rush and skill-based mechanics. Critics liken it to Mirror's Edge and Hotline Miami for its precision demands. However, some players on the Nintendo Switch face technical issues, clunky controls, and occasional repetitiveness, which can detract from the experience. Despite this, the majority view the game's intensity and mastery as rewarding, making it a standout choice for fans of high-stakes action.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ghostrunner has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled mechanics that blend parkour and sword combat. Many reviewers highlight the game's emphasis on speed and precision, drawing comparisons to titles like Mirror's Edge and Hotline Miami. For instance, Gaming Age notes the "fast-paced gameplay with swords and parkour jumps," while PC Gamer describes it as "hard, brutally unforgiving, but fair," emphasizing the thrill of one-hit kills. Critics like Destructoid and Eurogamer Italy commend the game's elegant traversal mechanics and engaging combat, which encourage players to master their skills and navigate intricate levels. The introduction of new abilities and enemy types throughout the game has also been mentioned as a way to keep the experience fresh and rewarding. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable issues that detract from the gameplay experience. For instance, multiple reviews from those playing on the Nintendo Switch, like those from Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player, mention technical issues that hinder quick reactions and lead to confusion over player deaths. DarkStation and PC Invasion echo similar sentiments, noting clunky controls and frustrating trial-and-error elements that can impede enjoyment. Critics also mention that the gameplay can become repetitive, as players often find themselves memorizing optimal paths rather than relying on skill, as highlighted by Atomix and GameMAG. This combination of control issues and occasional repetitiveness can lead to frustration, particularly in combat scenarios where timing is crucial. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards a favorable view of Ghostrunner's gameplay, with many considering it the standout feature of the game. While some reviewers, like Nintendo Life and New Game Network, express concerns about the difficulty and potential for frustration, the majority agree that the game's fast-paced mechanics and engaging combat create a thrilling experience. Critics such as Wccftech and GamingTrend emphasize the rewarding nature of mastering the game's intricacies, suggesting that the challenges presented ultimately contribute to a sense of accomplishment. In summary, Ghostrunner's gameplay is characterized by its intensity and demand for skill, making it a compelling choice for players who appreciate a high-risk, high-reward gaming experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner wows on PC and PS5 with stunning cyberpunk visuals and immersive design, praised for vibrant aesthetics and lighting. However, the Nintendo Switch version falters with grainy graphics and poor fidelity, detracting from gameplay. Critics emphasize a stark divide in visual quality across platforms, highlighting the game's artistic strengths but revealing significant limitations on weaker hardware.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Ghostrunner have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly those who played on more powerful platforms like PC and PS5. Many reviewers praised the game's vibrant cyberpunk aesthetic, with Wccftech noting "top-notch visuals that rival AAA titles," and Screen Rant highlighting the "gorgeous neon palette" that captivates players. Critics like Hobby Consolas and TrueGaming emphasized the impressive lighting effects and detailed environments, which contribute to an immersive experience. The game's ability to maintain a cohesive cyberpunk style, as mentioned by Nintendo Life, is also a point of appreciation, showcasing neon colors and a well-designed atmosphere that enhances gameplay. Conversely, the visual performance on the Nintendo Switch has faced significant criticism. Reviewers such as Hey Poor Player and Gaming Age pointed out issues like "poor visual fidelity" and "grainy visuals" that fail to match the game's intended sleek aesthetic. The Switch version's shallow draw distance and hazy graphics make it difficult to discern important gameplay elements, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, NintendoWorldReport mentioned that while the game runs at a respectable framerate, the small and hard-to-read UI adds to the visual challenges faced on this platform. Critics across the board have noted that the graphics can sometimes struggle to keep up with the fast-paced action, leading to moments where visual clarity is compromised. Overall, the consensus among critics highlights a divide in visual quality based on the platform used to play Ghostrunner. While PC and PS5 players enjoy stunning visuals and a rich cyberpunk atmosphere, those on the Nintendo Switch experience a compromised version that falls short of the game's potential. Critics like GameSpot and IGN have praised the game's adherence to the cyberpunk aesthetic, but the contrasting experiences emphasize the importance of platform choice in determining the quality of the visual design. Ultimately, while Ghostrunner showcases a strong artistic direction and impressive graphics on capable hardware, it struggles to deliver a consistent visual experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner's sound design and music by Daniel Deluxe receive mostly positive reviews, with critics praising the engaging techno and synthwave soundtrack for enhancing the game's adrenaline-fueled gameplay and cyberpunk atmosphere. However, some reviewers note issues with repetitiveness and a lack of memorability in the music. Despite these criticisms, the consensus is that the soundtrack significantly elevates the overall player experience, making it a standout feature of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Ghostrunner have garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising the contributions of composer Daniel Deluxe. Reviewers such as Eurogamer Italy and GameSkinny highlighted the effectiveness of the techno and synthwave soundtrack, noting how it enhances the adrenaline-fueled gameplay and complements key actions like climbing and boss fights. Critics from IGN, GameCrate, and Easy Allies echoed this sentiment, describing the music as engaging and immersive, with the synth-driven compositions effectively capturing the cyberpunk atmosphere of the game. The soundtrack's ability to maintain energy during intense gameplay moments was a recurring theme, with many reviewers asserting that it significantly enhances the overall experience. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Xbox Tavern and IGN Japan pointed out that some aspects of the sound design felt minimal and generic, with the music lacking memorability. Critics like Meristation noted that while the sound effects were impactful, the soundtrack could become repetitive, leading to moments where it might detract from the gameplay experience. This sentiment was echoed by Jeuxvideo.com, which described the soundtrack as hypnotic yet repetitive, suggesting that it might not resonate with all players. Such criticisms indicate that while the music generally enhances the experience, there are elements that could be improved to elevate the overall impact. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Ghostrunner features a strong sound design and music score that significantly contributes to its immersive gameplay experience. Despite some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and a lack of memorability from a few reviewers, the majority, including Game Rant and Digital Chumps, agree that the soundtrack by Daniel Deluxe is a standout feature that captures the essence of the game's cyberpunk theme. Ultimately, the positive feedback far outweighs the negatives, suggesting that Ghostrunner successfully utilizes its audio elements to engage players and enhance the thrill of its fast-paced action.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner's voice acting garners praise for its quality and contribution to storytelling, with critics noting strong performances that enhance immersion. However, the game's fast-paced action can hinder players' ability to absorb the dialogue, leading to mixed reception. While the voice acting is a commendable aspect, some argue it falls short in deepening player connection due to pacing and clichéd performances.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Ghostrunner has generally received positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as GameCrate and IGN noted that the voice acting is well-executed and contributes significantly to the overall storytelling experience. GameSpot emphasized that the plot is conveyed almost exclusively through voiceover, highlighting the importance of voice acting in the game's narrative structure. Additionally, critics like Multiplayer.it and PlayStation LifeStyle praised the performances, especially the protagonist's portrayal, which helps keep players engaged throughout the missions. The presence of strong characters like The Architect, noted by Digital Chumps and PlayStation Universe, further enhances the immersive experience, making the voice acting a commendable aspect of the game. However, several critics pointed out that the fast-paced nature of Ghostrunner can hinder players' ability to fully appreciate the voice acting. Meristation and Metro GameCentral expressed concerns that the rapid gameplay might make it challenging for players to follow the dialogue, particularly when combined with the game's reliance on voiceovers for plot exposition. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GameCritics and BaziCenter, indicated that while the voice acting is competent, it does not significantly enhance the player's connection to the story, with certain performances described as clichéd or typical. This suggests that while the voice acting is generally solid, it may not reach its full potential due to the game's pacing and narrative delivery methods. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Ghostrunner is a strong element that supports the game's storytelling, despite some drawbacks related to gameplay pacing. While many reviewers, including GameCrate and IGN, acknowledged the quality of the performances, others like Meristation and Metro GameCentral highlighted the challenges posed by the game's fast action. The combination of well-executed voice work and the necessity for players to engage with the story quickly creates a mixed reception, with critics recognizing both the strengths and limitations of the voice acting in enhancing the player's experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner shines on PC and PS5 with smooth gameplay and fast load times, earning high praise for optimization. In stark contrast, the Nintendo Switch and PS4 versions are plagued by serious performance issues, including stuttering and bugs, severely impacting the gameplay experience. Critics agree that platform optimization is crucial, making PC and PS5 the go-to choices, while the Switch version is a hard pass for quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Ghostrunner across various gaming platforms, a clear distinction emerges in the overall sentiment of critics. On the PC platform, the game is widely praised for its optimization and performance, with many reviewers noting smooth gameplay, fast loading times, and minimal technical issues. Critics like God is a Geek and Wccftech highlight that the game runs flawlessly at high settings, showcasing excellent optimization. The PS5 version also receives commendations for its fast loading times, improved resolution, and frame rates, with reviewers such as PlayStation Universe and Digital Chumps emphasizing the smooth experience and instant checkpoint loading. Meanwhile, the Xbox One version is generally stable, with New Game Network mentioning only minor performance slowdowns that don't significantly impact gameplay. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version faces significant criticism, with multiple reviewers, including Hey Poor Player and Nintendo Life, pointing out serious performance issues such as stuttering frame rates and poor control responsiveness, which detract from the gameplay experience. The PS4 version also suffers from technical problems, including screen tearing, stuttering, and bugs, as noted by critics like DarkStation and PlayStation LifeStyle. These issues are compounded by a problematic saving system that can lead to lost progress, as highlighted by DarkStation and Jeuxvideo.com. The Xbox One version has been criticized for poor optimization in the latter parts of the game, as mentioned by TheXboxHub, while some minor UI issues were noted by Cultured Vultures. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a stark contrast in technical performance across platforms. While the PC and PS5 versions are celebrated for their smooth gameplay and technical prowess, the Nintendo Switch and PS4 versions are marred by significant performance issues that hinder the experience. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Meristation suggest that the PS4 version performs well in some respects but still suffers from enough technical problems to affect enjoyment. This disparity highlights the importance of platform optimization, with the PC and PS5 versions standing out as the best experiences for players, while the Switch version, in particular, struggles to deliver a satisfactory performance.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ghostrunner boasts solid replay value for speedrunning fans and mastery seekers, offering features like level select and optimization of completion times. However, critics highlight a significant lack of additional content post-campaign, such as time trials or community-driven modes, which limits its overall replayability. While the game excels in challenge and skill refinement, it ultimately falls short for those craving varied gameplay after the main story. Enjoyable but limited—Ghostrunner might not keep everyone coming back.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the replay value of Ghostrunner present a mixed but predominantly positive perspective, particularly among those who appreciate speedrunning and mastery of gameplay mechanics. Critics such as GamingBolt and GameCritics highlight the game's competitive aspects and the opportunities for players to improve their performance through speedrunning challenges and collectibles. The inclusion of features like level select, where players can revisit levels with all abilities unlocked, is also noted by TheGamer, suggesting that the game encourages experimentation and mastery. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com mentions that the game’s design allows players to optimize their completion times, which is appealing for those who enjoy replaying levels to refine their skills. Conversely, many critics express concerns regarding the overall replayability of Ghostrunner, particularly after completing the main campaign. Game Debate and Windows Central point out a lack of additional content, such as time trials or challenge modes, which could enhance the replay value. The absence of community-driven content, like a Steam Workshop, is noted by GamingTrend, further emphasizing the limitations in replay options. Critics like Screen Rant and PC Invasion echo this sentiment, stating that the game feels short and lacks substantial post-campaign activities, which may deter players from returning once they have completed the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Ghostrunner offers significant replay value for speedrunning enthusiasts and players seeking to master its mechanics, it falls short in providing diverse content for those looking for extended gameplay. Critics like Everyeye.it and Metro GameCentral acknowledge the game's challenging nature and the potential for replay through collectibles and different strategies, yet many agree that the game could benefit from additional modes or content to enhance its longevity. Thus, while the game is enjoyable and engaging, its replay value is ultimately seen as limited, especially for players who prefer a more varied post-campaign experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards "Ghostrunner" is largely positive, particularly regarding its gameplay mechanics and visual design. Many critics highlight the game's thrilling parkour and fast-paced action, with GamingBolt noting it as "a beautifully crafted game" and IGN praising its "high-risk combat" and "well-told story." The visuals are frequently described as stunning, with JeuxActu and DarkZero emphasizing the game's impressive art style and atmosphere. Critics like TheSixthAxis and PCMag commend the fluid movement and engaging combat mechanics, suggesting that the game offers a rewarding experience for players who enjoy skill-based challenges. The game's ability to deliver adrenaline-pumping moments is also celebrated, with Shacknews calling it a "must-play for fans of the genre." However, despite its strengths, "Ghostrunner" is not without its flaws. Multiple reviewers point out technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player mention performance and visual problems that detract from the experience. Critics such as DarkStation and Xbox Tavern express frustration with the controls and combat mechanics, which can lead to a challenging experience that may not appeal to all players. Additionally, the game's difficulty is a common point of contention; while some find it exhilarating, others, including PC Invasion and Wccftech, suggest it may alienate those who are less skilled or prefer a more casual gaming experience. The narrative is also criticized for being predictable or lacking depth, as noted by GameSpot and Metro GameCentral. The overall consensus among critics is that "Ghostrunner" is a compelling title that excels in its core mechanics and visual presentation, making it particularly appealing to fans of fast-paced action and platforming games. However, the game is marred by technical issues and a steep learning curve that may frustrate some players. As noted by Meristation and TrueGaming, while it offers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest time and effort, its challenges may not suit everyone. In summary, "Ghostrunner" is recognized as a strong entry in the action-platformer genre, but potential players should be aware of its demanding nature and technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

"Ghostrunner" impresses with thrilling parkour gameplay and stunning visuals, earning praise for its fast-paced action and rewarding mechanics. Critics highlight its compelling core, making it a must-play for fans of the genre. However, technical issues—especially on Switch—frustrate some players, and its steep difficulty may alienate casual gamers. While it excels in presentation, the predictable narrative and challenging controls could deter others. Overall, it's a strong action-platformer, but be prepared for its demanding nature and flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

156 reviews found

Game Rant

Nov 5, 2020