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Goodbye Volcano High

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Goodbye Volcano High
Item: Goodbye Volcano High
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Interactive Movie, Visual Novel, Music and Dance, Drama, Single Player

AvailableAug 29, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperKO-OP

Overview

Fang is a typical 18-year-old dinosaur: they’re more concerned about their band going viral than they are about what happens after graduation. But they’re about to have much bigger problems. Will they find time to figure themselves out? Can they balance a potential apocalypse and a budding romance? During hard times, what do we owe each other? Goodbye Volcano High is a cinematic narrative adventure about the beginning of a love story... and the end of an era.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High wins over many critics with its heartfelt narrative about anthropomorphic dinosaurs facing teenage struggles amid an impending asteroid strike. Praised for its exploration of identity and friendship, particularly through its non-binary protagonist Fang, the game, however, suffers from pacing issues and narrative inconsistencies, leading some to find the story drawn out or low-stakes. While it captivates with emotional depth and charm, it also faces criticism for lacking substance at times, resulting in a mixed but generally positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Goodbye Volcano High has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its rich narrative and the unique setting of anthropomorphic dinosaurs navigating the complexities of teenage life. Reviewers such as Hardcore Gamer and IGN Italia highlight the game's exploration of themes like identity, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams against the backdrop of an impending asteroid strike, which adds depth and urgency to the characters' journeys. Critics like Player 2 and Siliconera emphasize the emotional weight of the narrative, praising its heartfelt moments and the way it captures the bittersweet nature of coming-of-age stories. The character development, particularly of Fang, a non-binary protagonist, is noted as a strong point, with Press Start Australia and RPG Fan commending the well-crafted character arcs that resonate with players. However, not all reviews are entirely favorable. Some critics point out that the story can feel drawn out or lacking in substance. Hey Poor Player mentions that the narrative can drag at times, while Wccftech argues that despite the high-stakes setting, the drama feels low-stakes and uninspired. Multiplayer.it also notes narrative inconsistencies, suggesting that the story might not maintain its momentum throughout. Critics like GameCrate observe that while the emotional beats are impactful, the story loses its edge midway through, indicating a potential pacing issue that detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Goodbye Volcano High presents a compelling and heartfelt narrative that resonates with themes of adolescence and existential dread, yet it is not without its flaws. While many reviewers, such as Eurogamer and Gamers Heroes, appreciate the blend of slice-of-life storytelling with a looming catastrophe, others express concerns about pacing and narrative depth. The game is recognized for its charming characters and emotional storytelling, but some critics feel it could benefit from tighter pacing and more substantial conflict. Thus, while the game is celebrated for its creativity and emotional impact, it also faces criticism for its execution, leading to a mixed but generally positive reception.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High impresses with its engaging narrative and strong character development, allowing players to shape protagonist Fang's journey through impactful dialogue choices. Critics praise its immersive storytelling and satisfying rhythm game mechanics, but the rhythm sections receive criticism for being visually overwhelming and poorly designed. Many reviewers also note that the choices feel less significant, limiting replayability. Overall, while the game shines in narrative depth and emotional engagement, it struggles with gameplay inconsistencies and a lack of meaningful player agency.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Goodbye Volcano High has garnered a range of positive remarks from various critics, highlighting its engaging narrative structure and unique mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and WellPlayed, appreciate the game's focus on dialogue choices that allow players to shape the protagonist Fang's relationships and inner thoughts. The interactive narrative adventure style, as noted by IGN Italia and Multiplayer.it, effectively immerses players in Fang's emotional journey, making them feel like the conscience guiding the character's decisions. Additionally, critics like Wccftech and GameGrin praise the rhythm game elements, describing them as simple yet satisfying, which adds a layer of engagement to the overall experience. However, the gameplay also faces criticism, particularly regarding the rhythm sections and the overall impact of player choices. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and Push Square point out that the rhythm segments can feel visually overwhelming and poorly designed, leading to timing issues that detract from the experience. Furthermore, several reviewers, including New Game Network and Gamers Heroes, express concern over the limited impact of dialogue choices on the overall narrative, suggesting that while the game offers branching paths, the differences may not be substantial enough to warrant replayability. This sentiment is echoed by Slant Magazine, which notes that the choices only gain significance towards the end of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Goodbye Volcano High excels in delivering an engaging narrative experience through its dialogue choices and emotional resonance, it suffers from inconsistencies in its rhythm gameplay and limited player agency. Critics like Press Start Australia highlight the game's unique pacing and bingeable quality, which contrasts with the frustrations noted in rhythm mechanics discussed by Digital Spy and Checkpoint Gaming. Ultimately, Goodbye Volcano High presents a compelling narrative adventure that resonates with players, yet it is marred by gameplay elements that could benefit from refinement and greater depth in player choices.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High dazzles with unique character designs and vibrant visuals, earning praise for its cartoon-style aesthetics and immersive storytelling. Critics highlight its stunning animation and creative art, likening the experience to a Netflix series. However, some reviews flag significant flaws, including stiff animations and garish character designs, leading to a divided reception. While the game captivates many with its artistic appeal, others find its technical execution lacking, suggesting that it may not meet the expectations of all players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Goodbye Volcano High have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's unique character designs and vibrant color palettes. Hardcore Gamer praises the "terrific character designs" and the effective use of various dinosaur species, while Multiplayer.it commends the high quality of the cartoon-style character and environment design. Similarly, Press Start Australia notes the game's "fully animated and aesthetically wonderful" presentation, suggesting that it could easily be mistaken for a Netflix limited series. The immersive narrative experience is also emphasized by IGN Italia, who appreciates the intimate space created through character expressions and communication. Overall, many critics, including GameMAG and Gamereactor UK, describe the animation as stunning and the visuals as vibrant and engaging, contributing positively to the game's storytelling. However, not all reviews are as favorable, with several critics pointing out significant flaws in the animation and overall visual execution. Siliconera criticizes the character designs for revealing "rigid posture and stiff animation," likening the visual style to early 2000s webcomics. Hey Poor Player describes the character designs as "garish and unappealing," which contrasts sharply with the more positive remarks from others. Additionally, New Game Network mentions issues with scene transitions and UI overlap, suggesting that the cartoon art style, while decent, does not impress. Critics like God is a Geek also note a lack of animation in certain scenes, indicating that despite the vibrant visuals, there are technical weaknesses that detract from the overall experience. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, reflecting a divide in opinions regarding the graphics and visual design of Goodbye Volcano High. While many reviewers, such as GameCrate and WellPlayed, celebrate the game's unique art style and character animation, others express dissatisfaction with the limitations in animation and some design choices. The game is generally recognized for its aesthetic appeal and creativity, particularly in character design and color use, but it also faces criticism for technical shortcomings and inconsistencies in visual quality. This dichotomy suggests that while Goodbye Volcano High offers a visually engaging experience, it may not fully satisfy all players, particularly those with higher expectations for animation fluidity and detail.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High impresses with its indie rock/pop soundtrack, hailed as a "co-protagonist" that deepens the narrative and emotional experience. Critics rave about the original music from in-game band Worm Drama and the innovative use of PS5's DualSense to enhance audio. While some find parts of the sound design lacking and voice acting amateurish, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive, cementing the music as a standout element that defines the game's success.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Goodbye Volcano High have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising the game's indie rock and pop soundtrack. Hardcore Gamer highlights the "terrific indie rock/pop soundtrack" featuring "a ton of gems," while IGN Italia emphasizes that the music serves as a "co-protagonist" in the narrative, encapsulating the characters' anxieties and dreams. Critics like Press Start Australia and Push Square commend the original music from the in-game band, Worm Drama, noting its meaningful lyrics and stellar voice performances that enhance the overall experience. The use of the PS5's DualSense features to elevate the audio and tactile experience is also mentioned by Multiplayer.it, further illustrating the thoughtful integration of sound design into gameplay. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have expressed reservations about certain aspects of the music and sound design. Hey Poor Player found the music to be "fine but not particularly captivating," suggesting that it may not resonate with all players. GameGrin noted that while the music is amazing, the sound design is merely "decent," indicating a lack of standout elements outside of the musical performances. Additionally, New Game Network pointed out issues with the voice acting, describing it as amateurish and mentioning a lack of background music in many parts, which detracts from the overall audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Goodbye Volcano High features an impressive soundtrack that significantly contributes to the game's emotional depth and narrative engagement. With numerous reviewers praising the music's charm, emotional impact, and integration into gameplay, it is clear that the sound design plays a crucial role in the game's success. Critics like Eurogamer and GameCrate affirm that the music is not only well-executed but also essential to the storytelling, solidifying its place as a standout aspect of the game. While some criticisms exist, the majority of reviewers agree that the sound design and music are among the game's most compelling features.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Goodbye Volcano High has been widely praised for its emotional depth and strong performances, with critics highlighting the engaging chemistry among the cast. However, some reviewers point out technical issues like delayed voice lines and flat performances that detract from the overall experience. While the majority of feedback is positive, emphasizing the voice work's ability to enhance storytelling, inconsistencies suggest room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The voice acting in Goodbye Volcano High has received considerable praise from a variety of critics, highlighting its strong performances and emotional depth. Hardcore Gamer commends the chemistry among the cast, particularly during engaging scenes like Dungeons and Dragons sessions, which showcases the characters' dynamics. IGN Italia notes that the quality of the writing and voice acting fosters a deep connection between players and characters, emphasizing the intimate storytelling that makes the characters feel relatable. Other critics, such as Press Start Australia and Push Square, echo this sentiment, describing the voice acting as stellar and sharp, effectively capturing the essence of teenage dialogue and bringing memorable characters to life. SpazioGames and GameGrin also reinforce this positive sentiment, with both noting the high quality and distinctiveness of the voice performances. However, not all opinions are favorable. Siliconera points out technical issues that detract from the overall experience, such as delayed voice lines and problems with lip syncing, which can disrupt immersion. Additionally, New Game Network criticizes the voice acting for being flat and lacking emotion, particularly for the lead character, suggesting that some performances may not resonate as intended. These negative aspects indicate that while the voice acting is generally well-received, there are notable inconsistencies that some players may encounter. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive appreciation of the voice acting in Goodbye Volcano High, with many praising the cast's ability to deliver engaging and authentic performances that resonate with the game's themes. While there are criticisms regarding technical issues and emotional depth, the majority of reviewers, such as WellPlayed and GameCrate, highlight the effectiveness of the voice work in bringing characters to life and enhancing the storytelling experience. This blend of strong performances and some technical shortcomings suggests that while the voice acting is a standout feature, it is not without its flaws, leaving room for improvement in future updates or projects.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High delivers an engaging experience on PS5, praised for its narrative despite minor technical hiccups. However, critics note issues like character pop-ins, voice line delays, and incorrect prompts, which distract from gameplay. The PC version faces its own set of problems, including control and audio glitches. Overall, while the game shows promise, both platforms need further refinement to enhance immersion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Goodbye Volcano High across platforms, it is evident that the PS5 version, in particular, provides a generally engaging experience despite some minor hiccups. Critics like Multiplayer.it reported no significant technical issues, highlighting that the gameplay remained smooth overall. Similarly, Player 2 noted that while small technical hitches were present, they did not interfere with gameplay. IGN Italia also echoed this sentiment, stating that despite minor technical issues affecting pacing, the overall experience remained engaging. This suggests that the PS5 version has a solid foundation that allows players to enjoy the narrative and gameplay without major disruptions. However, the PS5 version is not without its flaws. Several critics, including Hardcore Gamer and Siliconera, pointed out various technical issues such as characters popping into frame, voice line loading problems, and abrupt scene endings. Press Start Australia noted incorrect button prompts and subtitle errors, while RPG Fan mentioned pregnant pauses after dialogue choices and disappearing character art. These technical shortcomings, although not game-breaking, contribute to a somewhat inconsistent experience that can distract players from the story. On the PC side, Checkpoint Gaming and GameCrate highlighted specific issues like joystick control problems during rhythm gameplay and audio problems with voice acting, respectively, which could detract from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics across both platforms is that Goodbye Volcano High presents a promising experience marred by noticeable technical issues. While the PS5 version has been praised for its engaging narrative and gameplay, it suffers from a variety of bugs that detract from the overall polish, as noted by WellPlayed and SpazioGames. The PC version, while stable, also has its share of audio and control issues that can frustrate players, as pointed out by GameGrin and New Game Network. Ultimately, both platforms demonstrate that while the game has potential, it requires further refinement to achieve a seamless and immersive experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Goodbye Volcano High garners mixed reviews on replay value: critics praise its multiple playthrough incentives and collectible content, enhancing depth and engagement. However, significant drawbacks like the lack of chapter replay and limited branching paths lead to concerns about its overall replayability. While there's appeal in exploring different outcomes, the linear narrative and minimal impact from choices leave many feeling the game’s replay value is moderate at best.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Goodbye Volcano High reveal a mixed but generally positive sentiment among critics. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and WellPlayed, highlight the game's encouragement of multiple playthroughs to explore different connections and outcomes, which adds depth to the experience. The ability to unlock collectible photos and witness alternative scenes and endings, as noted by SpazioGames, provides an incentive for players to revisit the game. Multiplayer.it also mentions the engaging social media feed that enhances the enjoyment of following character arcs in real time, suggesting that these elements contribute positively to the overall replay value. However, several critics point out notable drawbacks that limit the game's replayability. Press Start Australia criticizes the absence of chapter replay and the inability to revisit music sequences, which diminishes the exploration of various outcomes. Checkpoint Gaming echoes this sentiment by stating that the lack of branching paths makes replaying less appealing. Additionally, Gamers Heroes and New Game Network note that the game can be completed relatively quickly, with limited impact from dialogue choices on the overall story, further suggesting that the replay value may not be substantial enough to entice players back for more than a couple of runs. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Goodbye Volcano High does offer some replay value through alternative scenes and relationship developments, significant limitations exist that may deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Critics like Wccftech and GamesRadar+ acknowledge that while there are reasons to replay the game, such as changing responses and unlocking content, the overall experience may feel constrained due to the linearity of the narrative and the lack of meaningful choices. Thus, while the game has its merits, the replay value is ultimately seen as moderate, with a mix of both appealing elements and notable shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards "Goodbye Volcano High" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and unique narrative. Hardcore Gamer highlights the game as a "terrifically-crafted slice of high school drama," commending its lovable cast and sweet story about perseverance. Similarly, Press Start Australia describes it as a "truly special game," noting its superb world-building and mature themes. Critics like Eurogamer and GameGrin also emphasize the game's emotional impact, with Eurogamer calling it a "powerful and emotionally impactful coming-of-age game" and GameGrin praising its "phenomenal story, animation, and music." The game's soundtrack and voice acting have also received acclaim, contributing to its overall immersive experience. Despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. Hey Poor Player mentions "bland writing" and "cliched characters," while Siliconera refers to "technical problems and pacing issues" that hinder the game's potential. Critics like Digital Spy and New Game Network echo these sentiments, indicating that gameplay flaws and narrative pacing can impede enjoyment. Additionally, Wccftech notes that the game may lack real drama and could come across as too "nice" for some players, suggesting that it plays it safe within its genre. These criticisms highlight that while the narrative is engaging, it is not without its shortcomings. The overall consensus among critics suggests that "Goodbye Volcano High" is a heartfelt and charming visual novel that resonates well with its target audience, particularly those who appreciate coming-of-age stories. While it has its share of technical issues and narrative inconsistencies, the emotional weight and unique storytelling approach have garnered it a favorable reception. Critics like RPG Fan and Push Square recommend it, indicating that it is worth experiencing despite its flaws. The game appears to strike a chord with players seeking a reflective and inclusive narrative, making it a noteworthy entry in the genre.

TL;DR

"Goodbye Volcano High" receives mostly positive reviews for its emotional depth, unique storytelling, and charming characters. Critics praise its coming-of-age themes, animation, and soundtrack, but point out flaws like bland writing, pacing issues, and technical problems. Despite these shortcomings, it resonates well with its target audience, making it a recommended experience for fans of heartfelt narratives.

MONSTER

Reviews

41 reviews found

100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Sep 30, 2023

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

An amazing example of what the genre can be, with a unique story and emotional impact.

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100

Eurogamer

Sep 7, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a powerful and emotionally impactful coming-of-age game that stands out from the standard fare. It offers a unique high school narrative and a memorable soundtrack. Highly recommended.

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GameGrin

Sep 12, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is an excellent game with a phenomenal story, animation, and music that everyone will love.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Sep 24, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High manages to exceed expectations, with a compelling story, engaging gameplay mechanics, stunning visuals, and a pleasing soundtrack. It is hard not to recommend the game.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

Sep 11, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a truly special game. It combines a well-conceived gameplay idea with a unique and superbly crafted world, sharp writing, and a gorgeous soundtrack. It is an earnest, mature, queer, warm, and heartbreaking experience.

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The So Videogames Podcast

PlayStation 5

Oct 12, 2023

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

The hosts highly recommend Goodbye, Volcano High and give it a solid nine out of ten score.

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God is a Geek

Sep 3, 2023

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

A charming visual novel with clever narrative choices and enjoyable gameplay, but may not appeal to those who cringe at teen drama.

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a high-level work that tells a story of personal affirmation, friendship, and love. Despite its technical flaws, the game's substance and intimate storytelling make it a standout teen drama.

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Hardcore Gamer

PlayStation 5

Sep 12, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a terrifically-crafted slice of high school drama that succeeds thanks to its lovable cast, amazing music, and a sweet story about perseverance. While not the greatest visual novel of the year, it is a recommended experience.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Sep 11, 2023

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

Goodbye Volcano High is a fun, nerdy, queer narrative adventure with engaging gameplay and lovable characters. The story is full of heart and the game offers an inclusive narrative experience. However, there are some technical issues and the replay value is limited.

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