Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Steam

Playstation

Twitch

MONSTER

Granblue Fantasy: Relink

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Granblue Fantasy: Relink
Item: Granblue Fantasy: Relink
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJan 31, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCygames

Overview

A grand adventure in the skies awaits! Form a party of four from a diverse roster of skyfarers and slash—or shoot or hex—your way to victory against treacherous foes in this action RPG. Take on quests solo or with the help of others in up to 4-player co-op play!

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink offers an engaging and accessible narrative praised for its appeal to newcomers, featuring well-paced storytelling and charming visuals. Critics highlight emotional themes and character backstories, but many agree the plot lacks depth and originality, relying on clichés and predictability. While the presentation is appealing, the story feels more like a gameplay tutorial than a compelling JRPG experience, ultimately leaving players craving more emotional resonance and complexity.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Granblue Fantasy: Relink has received some praise from critics for its engaging and accessible narrative, particularly for newcomers to the franchise. Several reviewers, such as PC Gamer and TechRadar Gaming, noted that the story is well-paced and does not require extensive prior knowledge of the mobile game, making it approachable for new players. Additionally, critics like RPG Fan highlighted the emotional and hopeful aspects of the narrative, while others appreciated the character backstories provided through the Fate Episodes and Glossary system, which help to enrich the world and its lore. The charming presentation and the colorful fantasy setting also garnered positive remarks, with some critics like Voxel noting the themes of friendship and justice as engaging elements of the story. On the flip side, a significant number of critics pointed out the story's shortcomings, particularly its lack of depth and originality. MeuPlayStation and PC Games criticized the narrative for being fast-paced and overly simplistic, describing it as a weak point that revolves around clichéd villains and a straightforward rescue mission. Many reviews, including those from IGN France and Siliconera, echoed sentiments about the predictability and linearity of the plot, stating that it often feels like a tutorial for the gameplay rather than a compelling narrative experience. Critics like GameCritics and Metro GameCentral emphasized the absence of character development and emotional engagement, suggesting that the story fails to provide memorable moments or significant stakes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Granblue Fantasy: Relink offers an engaging and accessible narrative for newcomers, it ultimately falls short in terms of depth and originality. Many reviewers, including those from IGN Italia and Gamer.no, acknowledged the familiar tropes and predictable plotlines, which detracted from the overall experience. Despite some positive aspects, such as strong character introductions and a charming presentation, the prevailing sentiment is that the story lacks the complexity and emotional resonance that many players seek in a JRPG. As highlighted by critics like Gamer Escape and Hey Poor Player, the narrative serves more as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a compelling story in its own right, leaving many players desiring a richer narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink impresses with its dynamic combat and a diverse roster of 19 characters, praised for its engaging gameplay and teamwork in epic battles. Critics highlight its fast-paced action reminiscent of classic RPGs, but some note issues like repetitive mechanics and limited character depth. Overall, while there are criticisms, the game's enjoyable combat and cooperative play create a compelling experience that resonates with players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Granblue Fantasy: Relink has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and dynamic combat system. Many reviewers, such as Inverse and Hey Poor Player, praised the fluidity and responsiveness of the combat mechanics, emphasizing the thrill of mastering various characters and their unique abilities. The game features a diverse roster of 19 playable characters, as noted by Gamersky, each with distinct fighting styles that enhance the strategic depth of battles. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Eurogamer appreciated the epic set pieces and the game's focus on teamwork, particularly during cooperative missions and challenging boss encounters. Overall, the gameplay is described as fast-paced, rewarding, and reminiscent of beloved action RPGs, making it a highlight of the title. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay experience. For instance, GAMINGbible criticized the gameplay as "the furthest thing from fun," citing the repetitive nature of button-mashing mechanics. Others, like PlayStation Country and Multiplayer.it, echoed concerns about the potential for monotony, with combat becoming simplistic and repetitive over time. Critics such as Vandal and Cubed3 mentioned limitations in character depth and equipment management, suggesting that while the combat is engaging, it may lack the complexity that some players desire. Furthermore, the AI controls during solo play can restrict player control, as highlighted by Vandal, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Granblue Fantasy: Relink's gameplay. Many reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and Shacknews, found the combat system to be enjoyable and engaging, with a strong emphasis on character experimentation and cooperative play. While some elements may feel repetitive or simplistic, the majority of critics agree that the game's fast-paced action and diverse character abilities create a satisfying experience. The blend of action RPG mechanics with cooperative gameplay, as noted by IGN Spain and Destructoid, contributes to a rewarding gameplay loop that keeps players invested, particularly in multiplayer settings. Overall, Granblue Fantasy: Relink delivers a compelling action RPG experience that resonates well with its audience, despite some areas for improvement.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink dazzles with its vibrant cel-shaded graphics and captivating art style, winning over critics with stunning environments and character designs. However, it faces criticism for technical issues, including limited performance on PS5 and some outdated textures. While the visuals are largely praised for their anime charm, the game falls short of current-gen standards in certain areas. Overall, it’s a visually striking title that immerses players, but refinement is needed for a truly polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual 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 graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Granblue Fantasy: Relink have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising the game's vibrant and enchanting art style. Reviewers such as IGN Spain and RPG Fan highlighted the stunning cel-shaded graphics and the beautiful environments that contribute to a visually captivating experience. Critics like GAMINGbible and Cubed3 echoed these sentiments, noting the impressive character designs and the overall painterly aesthetic that enhances the gameplay. The use of color and detailed backgrounds was frequently mentioned, with many reviewers appreciating how the visuals bring the anime-inspired world to life. The game's transition from a mobile gacha game to a full 3D experience has been acknowledged as a significant achievement, with critics like GamingTrend emphasizing the successful adaptation of the original art style into a more immersive format. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Push Square criticized the performance mode on PS5 for being capped at 1080p, leading to jagged assets on 4K displays. IGN France also mentioned that while the visual design is pleasant, it lacks originality and does not meet the technical standards expected from current-generation consoles. Furthermore, some critics, including GIGA and Game Informer, noted inconsistencies in character models and textures, suggesting that certain elements feel outdated or less polished compared to the overall quality of the game. These critiques indicate that while the art direction is strong, there are technical aspects that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Granblue Fantasy: Relink offers a visually appealing experience that successfully captures the essence of its anime roots. While there are criticisms regarding performance and some technical limitations, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's art direction, vibrant colors, and detailed environments create a captivating and immersive world. Critics like Metro GameCentral and But Why Tho? emphasized the game's impressive visuals and artistic direction, reinforcing the idea that despite its flaws, Granblue Fantasy: Relink stands out as a visually stunning title that enhances the player's experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink boasts a stellar soundtrack praised by critics like Digital Trends and GameSpot, thanks to composers Nobuo Uematsu and Tsutomu Narita. The orchestral music enhances gameplay, especially during boss battles, and creates an immersive atmosphere. However, some critics find the music occasionally generic and overwhelming, with suggestions for greater originality. Overall, the sound design is a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game’s success despite minor criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Granblue Fantasy: Relink have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the impressive contributions of renowned composers Nobuo Uematsu and Tsutomu Narita. Reviewers from outlets like Digital Trends and GameSpot praised the orchestral soundtrack for its ability to enhance gameplay, particularly during intense boss battles, with Digital Trends noting the "fantastic soundtrack" that triumphantly showcases the sound design. Many critics, including Tech-Gaming and RPGamer, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the range of the music from tranquil melodies to epic battle themes that significantly enrich the overall experience. The combination of high-quality compositions and immersive sound design, as highlighted by Gameblog.fr and IGN, contributes to a captivating atmosphere that resonates well with players. However, not all reviews were as enthusiastic. Some critics, such as Wccftech and Eurogamer Germany, expressed concerns about the music feeling somewhat generic or lacking originality, with Wccftech describing it as "more like background noise." Additionally, GIGA pointed out that while the orchestral music is initially engaging, it can become overwhelming over time, particularly during battles where excessive character dialogue may detract from the overall sound experience. CD-Action also mentioned that while the soundtrack is enjoyable, it could be more interesting and memorable, suggesting a mixed reception regarding the distinctiveness of the music. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Granblue Fantasy: Relink features a strong and engaging sound design and music that significantly enhances the gaming experience. The majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, with critics like Gamer Escape and PlayStation Universe commending the excellent voice acting and the way the soundtrack complements various gameplay moments. While some critiques regarding originality and the potential overwhelming nature of the audio exist, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the high-quality compositions and immersive soundscapes that define the game. The positive reception indicates that the sound design and music are indeed a highlight of Granblue Fantasy: Relink, contributing to its overall success as a title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The voice acting in Granblue Fantasy: Relink has garnered widespread acclaim for enhancing character depth and emotional moments, with standout performances in both English and Japanese. Critics praise its ability to draw players into the narrative, though some point out irritations in specific performances and a lack of full voice acting. Overall, while it significantly enriches the game, it’s not without its flaws, balancing applause with critique.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Granblue Fantasy: Relink has received widespread acclaim from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and Everyeye.it, praised the strong performances in both English and Japanese, noting that the voice acting adds depth to character interactions and emotional moments. GameSpot emphasized how the characters' personalities are well conveyed through their voice tones and facial expressions, enhancing the game's presentation. Critics like RPG Fan and RPG Site lauded the stellar performances from familiar voice actors, which not only resonate with fans of the franchise but also enrich the narrative. Overall, the consensus is that the voice acting is a strong point of the game, effectively drawing players into the story and enhancing character development. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. A few reviewers, such as GIGA and Metro GameCentral, pointed out instances where the voice performances could be irritating or excessive, particularly during intense gameplay moments. Additionally, MeuPlayStation noted a lack of full voice acting, which could disappoint players expecting a more immersive experience. Critics like COGconnected suggested that the voice acting might feel overly reminiscent of anime, which may not appeal to all players. Furthermore, some voices were described as grating by GameGrin, indicating that while the overall quality is high, there are specific performances that detract from the experience. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Granblue Fantasy: Relink is largely successful, contributing positively to the game's narrative and character development. While there are some criticisms regarding specific performances and instances of excessive dialogue, the majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and VG247, agree that the voice work enhances the emotional beats of the story and brings the characters to life. This balance of praise and critique illustrates that while the voice acting is a significant asset, it is not without its flaws, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game's reception.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink impresses with strong technical performance on PC and PS5, earning praise for smooth gameplay and consistent frame rates. However, issues like save file corruption on PC and subpar graphical performance on PS5, along with multiplayer concerns, highlight significant flaws. Overall, it’s a solid entry but not without its setbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Granblue Fantasy: Relink has garnered generally positive feedback across both PC and PS5 platforms. On PC, reviewers like But Why Tho? and PC Gamer highlighted the game's excellent performance, noting consistent frame rates and a polished experience without significant technical issues. GamingTrend also praised the game for running smoothly on high settings, indicating that it performs well on powerful rigs. Similarly, on PS5, critics such as Atomix and CD-Action reported stable frame rates and smooth gameplay across different graphical modes, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. The game’s art direction was also noted positively, with The Games Machine mentioning how the cross-gen nature of the game is well-masked, enhancing the visual appeal. However, there are notable negatives for both platforms. On PC, GameCritics raised concerns about save file corruption, which could significantly impact the overall experience, while ZTGD pointed out that the PC port lacks certain features and has crashes. On the PS5, while many reviews praised the performance, some critics like IGN France criticized the game for not meeting current standards, citing subpar frame rates and resolution. Additionally, Gamers Heroes mentioned technical issues related to gameplay rhythm and online match waiting times, indicating that multiplayer performance could be a concern. MGG also highlighted optimization issues, particularly in frame rate options that could frustrate players during fast-paced gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Granblue Fantasy: Relink performs well on both PC and PS5, with a majority of reviews emphasizing a smooth and stable experience. While the game excels in technical performance, particularly on PS5, with many reviewers noting the lack of significant issues (as seen in reviews from Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it), there are still concerns regarding save file integrity on PC and some graphical limitations on PS5. The mixed feedback on multiplayer performance and optimization suggests that while the game is a solid entry in the genre, it may not be without its flaws, as highlighted by critics like Eurogamer Germany and Voxel.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink offers extensive content and character variety that entices players to return, with over 100 quests and significant endgame features praised by critics. However, concerns about repetitive missions and grind-heavy gameplay raise doubts about its long-term appeal. While it has the potential for replayability, the execution may frustrate some, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Granblue Fantasy: Relink showcases a blend of appreciation for its extensive content and character variety. Many critics, including Hobby Consolas and TechRadar Gaming, highlight the significant endgame content and cooperative multiplayer options that encourage players to revisit the game after completing the main story. The inclusion of over 100 quests, character progression systems, and various difficulty levels, as noted by RPGamer and GameGrin, adds to the game's replayability, making it appealing for those who enjoy character customization and cooperative gameplay. Additionally, GIGA emphasizes the potential for playtime to extend beyond 100 hours, which is a strong point for players seeking long-term engagement. However, despite these positives, a considerable number of critics express concerns regarding the repetitive nature of missions and the grind-focused gameplay that may deter players from fully engaging with the content. Reviewers like VideoGamer and MeuPlayStation point out that the linearity and repetitiveness of quests can limit the game's long-term appeal. Critics such as Eurogamer and Game Informer echo this sentiment, noting that while the game offers a variety of characters and missions, the lack of engaging content post-campaign can diminish the overall replay value. The consensus is that while there are opportunities for replayability, the grind and repetitive quests may frustrate some players. In summary, the critics' consensus on Granblue Fantasy: Relink indicates that while the game provides a wealth of content and character options that could entice players back for more, the repetitive nature of missions and the grind-heavy progression system may hinder its lasting appeal. Reviewers like IGN Italia and Destructoid acknowledge the potential for replay value through endgame content and cooperative missions, but caution that the enjoyment may vary based on individual player preferences. Ultimately, while the game has the framework for significant replayability, its execution may not resonate with all players, leading to a mixed overall sentiment.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its visuals, combat system, and overall gameplay experience. Many reviewers, such as IGN Spain and Tech-Gaming, praised the game for its stunning graphics and engaging combat mechanics, highlighting its appeal to fans of action RPGs. Critics like Shacknews and Gamer Escape noted the game's polish and production value, emphasizing that it serves as a friendly entry point for newcomers to the franchise. The multiplayer aspects also received commendation, with several reviews, including those from Vandal and Noisy Pixel, pointing out the enjoyable cooperative gameplay that enhances the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms that permeate many reviews, particularly concerning the game's narrative and depth. Critics like GAMINGbible and IGN Italia pointed out that the storytelling falls short of expectations, with many describing it as linear or lacking in depth. The repetitive nature of missions and the absence of a compelling story were common themes in reviews from MeuPlayStation and PlayStation Country, who noted that while the gameplay is enjoyable, the narrative fails to engage players fully. Additionally, some critics, such as Metro GameCentral and Cubed3, echoed concerns about weak character development and voice acting, suggesting that these elements detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a solid action RPG that excels in gameplay and visuals but struggles with its narrative and character depth. While many reviewers, including RPG Site and God is a Geek, found it to be a highly enjoyable title that meets the expectations of franchise fans, others like IGN France and Digital Trends warned that it may not satisfy those looking for a more traditional RPG experience. The game is generally recommended for its engaging combat and beautiful presentation, but potential players should be aware of its storytelling shortcomings, which could impact their enjoyment.

TL;DR

Granblue Fantasy: Relink impresses with stunning visuals and engaging combat, earning praise as a solid action RPG. However, critics slam its weak narrative, linear storytelling, and lackluster character development. While it’s fun for franchise fans and newcomers alike, those seeking a deep RPG experience may be left wanting. Enjoy the gameplay, but brace for storytelling flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

142 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

The review concludes that Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a triumph and one of the most mechanically deep and rewarding action-RPGs. It is praised for its engaging story, enjoyable gameplay, stunning visuals, and wealth of content. The estimated overall score is 9.

Read full review

100

TouchArcade

Feb 6, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink has exceeded expectations with its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and solid performance, making it a joy to play.

Read full review

Voxel

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a well-crafted RPG that successfully translates the franchise into a new genre, offering engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and a satisfying progression system, despite some minor flaws.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy Relink is an exceptional game with a lot going for it, with few complaints.

Read full review

Tech-Gaming

Feb 2, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a refreshing action RPG that combines engaging gameplay, rich visuals, and a charming story, providing a satisfying experience without micro-transactions.

Read full review

RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink has surpassed the reviewer's lofty expectations and set a new bar for character action RPGs. It is a must-play game that delivers a fast, dramatic, and exciting experience.

Read full review

Gamersky

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Overall, the game is highly recommended for fans and newcomers alike, praised for its quality and engaging gameplay.

Gamer.no

PlayStation 5

Feb 8, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a charming and memorable action RPG that celebrates its genre roots. It combines engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and excellent music, making it a standout title.

God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a gorgeous game with satisfying combat and a deep level of customization. The story and character development are enjoyable, and there is plenty of replay value. Overall, it is a highly recommended game.

Read full review

RPG Site

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2024

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

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is a resounding success, offering a stacked roster of playable characters, intuitive multiplayer action combat, and a bombastic single-player story quest. It sets quite a bar for other RPGs in 2024 and provides extensive replay value.

Read full review