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MONSTER

Hob

2017

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableSep 26, 2017

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperRunic Games

Overview

Hob is set on a beautiful and dangerous unknown world, with buzzing life above and the whirrs of mysterious machinery below. The more players delve into the world’s design, the more they uncover a planet in peril. Players must learn to survive, understand their true purpose through acquiring skills, and ultimately transform the nature of the world itself. Hob is presented without text or dialogue. Narrative is revealed as players explore and interact with their mysterious planet, and the strange life forms that inhabit it. Hob features smooth controller gameplay, multi-layered puzzles, and striking visuals.

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Hob is a bold, atmospheric experiment where visual storytelling and emotional resonance shine, drawing comparisons to Journey and Fumito Ueda’s work. Critics praise its haunting beauty and minimalist charm, but the lack of narrative clarity and underdeveloped plot leave many frustrated, splitting opinions between admiration for its artistic ambition and disappointment in its execution. A polarizing, memorable journey for fans of mood over meaning.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The reviews of Hob highlight its strengths in environmental storytelling and atmospheric immersion, which many critics praise as innovative and evocative. Several reviewers, such as PSX Extreme and GameSpace, commend the game’s reliance on visual cues and player curiosity to convey a mysterious narrative, describing it as "daring" and "charming." IGN notes that the story unfolds through exploration and emotional resonance, drawing comparisons to Journey and Ico, while Multiplayer.it emphasizes its evocative, minimalist style akin to Fumito Ueda’s work. The absence of dialogue and text is seen as a deliberate choice that enhances the game’s enigmatic tone, with Gameblog.fr highlighting the protagonist’s journey through a "beautiful" and "fascinating" world. Critics like Vgames and GameSpew also appreciate the unique approach, even if it occasionally leads to confusion, underscoring the game’s ability to spark wonder through its visual and emotional storytelling. However, many critics criticize Hob for its underdeveloped narrative and lack of clarity, which they argue undermines its potential. DualShockers and DarkStation point out that the story begins with promise but quickly becomes shallow, failing to deliver meaningful conflict or resolution. COGconnected and Impulsegamer note that the minimalistic approach leaves players confused about objectives and plot mechanics, while Destructoid and Gameplanet describe the narrative as "minimalistic" and lacking depth. The absence of explicit exposition is a double-edged sword: while it fosters immersion, it also results in a "vague" and "aimless" experience, as ZTGD acknowledges. Vandal and Wccftech highlight the frustration caused by unclear guidance, with some reviewers feeling the game’s focus on atmosphere overshadows its storytelling, leaving players to piece together fragments without satisfying answers. Overall, critics are divided but largely agree that Hob is a bold, unconventional experience that prioritizes mood over traditional narrative structure. While IGN and Multiplayer.it praise its emotional depth and unique vision, others like DualShockers and DarkStation feel it falls short in delivering a cohesive story. The consensus leans toward appreciation for its artistic ambition, with GameSpace and Vgames celebrating its charm and creativity, even as COGconnected and Destructoid critique its lack of direction. Ultimately, Hob is seen as a game that appeals to players who value exploration and atmosphere, but its narrative shortcomings may frustrate those seeking clearer storytelling. The mixed reactions reflect a balance between admiration for its innovation and disappointment in its execution, leaving the experience polarizing yet memorable.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Hob dazzles with inventive puzzle mechanics and Metroidvania-style exploration but falters under repetitive design, clunky controls, and lackluster combat, leaving a polarizing mix of ambition and frustration.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Hob receives praise for its creative puzzle-solving mechanics, exploration-driven design, and unique environmental interactions. Critics like PSX Extreme highlight the modular Glove as a central mechanic that enables platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving, while GameCritics notes how abilities such as the charged punch and warping influence progression. The metroidvania-style structure is frequently lauded for its emphasis on exploration and backtracking, with Wccftech praising the Castlevania-inspired design that rewards players with upgrades and hidden routes. Additionally, COGconnected and MGG commend the game’s blend of Zelda-like puzzles and skill progression, while GameSpace appreciates the satisfaction of solving challenges despite its linear structure. The robotic arm mechanic, central to environmental manipulation, is highlighted as a standout feature by multiple reviewers, including Gameblog.fr and Pure Nintendo, who note its role in shaping the game’s unique identity. However, several critics point to significant flaws in Hob’s gameplay, particularly its repetitive puzzles, unresponsive controls, and frustrating design choices. DualShockers criticizes the linearity and monotonous environmental puzzles, while Destructoid and Gameplanet describe combat as basic, tedious, and lacking depth. Issues with platforming mechanics are recurring, with Vandal and PC Gamer noting control imprecision and awkward camera angles that hinder navigation. Wccftech and Impulsegamer mention the game’s tendency to force players into ambiguous exploration, often leading to disengagement. Additionally, GameSpew and Nintenderos highlight the lack of explicit guidance and backtracking that can feel tedious, while ZTGD points to repetitive puzzle mechanics that fail to evolve over time. These criticisms underscore a disconnect between the game’s ambitious design and its execution. Overall, Hob is viewed as a creatively ambitious title with a strong focus on exploration and environmental puzzles, but its gameplay suffers from technical shortcomings and uneven pacing. While PSX Extreme and MGG appreciate the blend of influences and skill progression, many critics, including Destructoid and Gameplanet, argue that the game’s core mechanics lack polish and innovation. The consensus leans toward a mixed reception: the game’s charm and unique ideas are evident, but its repetitive elements, control issues, and underdeveloped combat detract from the experience. As noted by IGN and Eurogamer Italy, Hob excels in puzzle-solving and world-building but struggles to balance these strengths with cohesive gameplay systems, leaving it as a polarizing title that appeals more to fans of exploration than those seeking refined mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Hob's stunning, steampunk-tinged art style and immersive, nature-meets-mechanical worlds dazzle, but technical flaws—especially on Switch—ruin the polish, creating a divisive mix of breathtaking visuals and frustrating performance issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Hob are widely praised for their creative art style, environmental creativity, and atmospheric appeal. Critics consistently highlight the game’s unique cel-shaded, geometric aesthetic (PSX Extreme) and its blend of organic nature with mechanical ruins, evoking comparisons to classic 2D Zelda games (Gameblog.fr) and Fumito Ueda’s work (MGG). The environments are described as visually striking, with lush green fields, intricate ancient machinery, and dynamic environmental changes that enhance exploration (Vgames, Wccftech, PC Gamer). IGN and Destructoid commend the game’s vibrant, imaginative landscapes where nature and technology intertwine seamlessly, creating a sense of wonder. The art style is often noted as a standout feature, with critics like GameStar praising its steampunk-inspired elements and Gameplanet highlighting the "gaudy" yet charming clockwork aesthetics. The Switch version also receives praise for its polished, shaded animation (GameSpace) and immersive mechanical world (COGconnected), despite some platform-specific trade-offs. However, several criticisms emerge regarding technical polish and repetition. DualShockers points out that the world feels monotonous due to repetitive architecture and limited visual variety across regions, while GameCritics notes navigational challenges caused by fixed camera angles. On the Nintendo Switch, multiple reviewers (e.g., Attack of the Fanboy, Impulsegamer, Pure Nintendo) highlight compromises in graphical fidelity, such as lower resolution in handheld mode, blurred details, and frame rate inconsistencies. Vandal mentions inconsistent performance and polish, though updates have improved stability over time. Additionally, some critics (e.g., Gameblog.fr, Nintenderos) point to technical flaws like poor textures, jagged shadows, screen tearing, and a mismatched UI that detracts from the experience. While the PC versions generally receive more favorable remarks for their smooth visuals (PC Gamer, IGN), the game’s dense environments (Wccftech) and lack of clear visual cues can lead to disorientation. Overall, critics agree that Hob’s artistic vision is its strongest asset, with its stylized visuals and immersive world-building earning widespread acclaim. However, technical limitations—particularly on the Nintendo Switch—create a divide in the experience, as noted by reviewers like Vandal and Pure Nintendo. While PC versions are praised for their polished execution (IGN, GameStar), the Switch’s hardware constraints lead to compromises that some find frustrating. Despite these issues, the game’s distinctive aesthetic and attention to environmental detail (Gameplanet, MMORPG.com) resonate strongly, with many critics acknowledging its charm and creativity as a defining strength. The consensus leans toward appreciation for the art style, even as technical and design flaws temper the overall experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Hob's sound design and music masterfully craft an immersive, haunting atmosphere through minimalist orchestral swells and ambient textures, evoking a solitary, poetic journey akin to ICO. While praised for subtle integration with environment and emotional resonance, its lack of memorable melodies or emotional punch leaves some feeling underwhelmed, balancing atmospheric depth against fleeting impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Hob are widely praised for their atmospheric depth and emotional resonance, with many critics highlighting their ability to enhance the game’s isolated, poetic tone. PSX Extreme emphasizes how the minimalist soundtrack uses brief orchestral swells to underscore moments of triumph while reinforcing the player’s solitude, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Similarly, GameSpace and MGG commend Matt Uelmen’s composition for its grandeur and immersion, noting how it matches the game’s whimsical scale and solitary journey. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Nintenderos praise the subtle, ambient cues that blend seamlessly with the environment, evoking a mysterious, otherworldly feel reminiscent of ICO. The sound design is also lauded for its integration with environmental elements—such as distant wildlife howls and mechanical hums—by Gameplanet, which calls it “marvellous” for amplifying the game’s eerie, immersive world. These reviews collectively underscore the music’s role in crafting a cohesive, emotionally evocative experience. However, some critics note that the soundtrack’s subtlety comes at the cost of memorability. Vandal and Wccftech both argue that while the ambient music supports the atmosphere, it lacks standout moments or emotional impact, feeling “underwhelming” compared to the visuals or gameplay. The Overpowered Noobs echo this sentiment, stating the music is “unobtrusive but not memorable,” with sound effects being more responsive than the score itself. Additionally, Vgames points out that technical limitations, such as a 30fps frame rate, may have detracted from the platforming experience, though this critique is tangential to the audio design. While most agree the music enhances mood, its lack of distinctiveness or emotional punch is a recurring concern, with some feeling it fails to leave a lasting impression despite its atmospheric contributions. Overall, critics largely agree that Hob’s sound design and music succeed in creating an immersive, emotionally resonant atmosphere, even if they don’t achieve standout memorability. The minimalist approach—celebrated by reviewers like PSX Extreme, GameSpace, and PC Games—is seen as a strength for its subtlety and integration with the game’s world, while also being a limitation in terms of emotional impact. While some critics, such as MMORPG.com and IGN, highlight the music’s ability to shift with the environment and evoke a “Journey-like” tone, others like Vandal and Wccftech feel it falls short of being truly impactful. This consensus suggests that Hob’s audio design is effective in supporting its narrative and aesthetic but may not fully elevate the experience beyond its atmospheric foundation. The balance between immersion and memorability remains a nuanced point of discussion among reviewers.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Hob’s technical performance varies wildly—Switch shines with smoother gameplay and optimizations, while PS4 and PC grapple with frame rate issues, awkward controls, and camera glitches; though updates help, its inconsistent polish remains a hurdle across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Hob varies across platforms, with notable positives for each. On Nintendo Switch, critics like COGconnected and GameSpace praised its smooth gameplay, fast frame rates, intuitive controls, and improved camera mechanics in the Definitive Edition. The port’s HD Rumble support, touch screen integration, and reduced loading times were highlighted as significant upgrades over console versions. For PC, while some reviewers criticized control schemes (e.g., Destructoid noted poor mouse/keyboard UI implementation), others like PC Gamer acknowledged that the game runs well on most systems with generous respawn points mitigating platforming frustrations. On PS4, despite issues, Vandal and Vgames noted that updates improved stability, and GameCritics observed no major crashes, though camera quirks and frame rate dips were mentioned. Negatives across platforms include persistent technical flaws. On PS4, DualShockers highlighted severe frame rate drops in later hours, while PSX Extreme and GameCritics criticized awkward camera angles and finicky platforming mechanics. For Switch, Gameblog.fr and GameSpew pointed to handheld mode issues like low texture quality, jagged shadows, and frame rate dips, though Gaming Age and MGG noted smoother performance overall. On PC, critics like Eurogamer Italy and Games.cz lamented camera systems, floaty physics, and FPS drops during combat, while PC Gamer and Gameplanet emphasized frustrating controls and inconsistent optimization. These issues were often seen as mitigated by updates or checkpoint systems but still detracted from immersion. Overall, the consensus is that Hob suffers from technical inconsistencies across all platforms, with Nintendo Switch receiving the most balanced reception due to its improved port and smoother performance compared to PS4 and PC. While PS4 critics like DualShockers and Vandal highlighted significant frame rate issues, Switch reviewers such as COGconnected and GameSpace celebrated its stability and enhancements. On PC, while optimization varied (e.g., Destructoid’s UI complaints vs. PC Gamer’s praise for respawn mechanics), the game’s technical flaws were broadly acknowledged but often deemed manageable with patches. Despite platform-specific challenges, the critical reception suggests that Hob’s core experience is salvageable, though its technical shortcomings remain a notable hurdle for players across all systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hob’s exploration-driven charm and hidden secrets offer brief allure, but its short runtime, repetitive puzzles, and lack of post-game content sink replayability, leaving it as a niche experience rather than a lasting adventure.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The reviewers generally acknowledge some positive aspects of Hob’s replay value, particularly its emphasis on exploration and hidden elements. Vandal highlights the game’s “rich enough world to encourage multiple playthroughs for discovery,” while Wccftech notes that collectibles and hidden paths suggest replayability for players who enjoy uncovering secrets. Gameblog.fr and Eurogamer Italy also point to additional content like skill upgrades, hidden items, and two possible endings, which add layers of incentive for revisiting the game. Similarly, MGG and Pure Nintendo mention that 100% completion and exploration-driven mechanics can extend playtime, with some critics noting that dedicated fans might appreciate the charm and puzzle-solving aspects enough to return. These positives often center on the game’s atmospheric design and the satisfaction of discovering its secrets, even if they don’t fully compensate for its limitations. However, several critics emphasize significant drawbacks that limit Hob’s replayability. DualShockers criticizes the “short length (8-10 hours)” and “repetitive puzzles,” arguing that the lack of secondary objectives and unchanging challenges reduces incentive to revisit. GameSpace and Gameplanet describe the game as a “bite-sized adventure” with limited depth, while ZTGD calls it “solid but unremarkable” and notes a lack of engaging hooks for multiple playthroughs. Attack of the Fanboy and Impulsegamer point out that the Switch port and Definitive Edition offer no new content, making replayability dependent on initial enjoyment. Additionally, PC Games and The Overpowered Noobs highlight the absence of a deep Metroidvania structure or post-game content, which diminishes long-term appeal compared to similar titles. These critiques collectively underscore concerns about repetition, brevity, and insufficient incentives for returning players. Overall, the critics present a mixed but largely cautious assessment of Hob’s replay value. While exploration-focused elements like collectibles, hidden paths, and multiple endings are praised as potential draws, most agree that these features are not enough to overcome the game’s short runtime, repetitive mechanics, and lack of substantial post-game content. Vandal and Eurogamer Italy stand out for their more optimistic takes, but even they acknowledge limitations. Conversely, DualShockers, Gameplanet, and ZTGD argue that the game’s core flaws—such as its linear structure and minimal replay incentives—make it a one-time experience for many players. The consensus seems to lean toward Hob being a charming, atmospheric adventure with niche appeal for exploration enthusiasts, but not a title designed for extensive or long-term replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall verdict on Hob highlights its strengths in artistic vision, atmospheric design, and creative gameplay mechanics. Critics consistently praise its unique art style, which blends biomechanical aesthetics with lush environments, creating a visually striking world. PSX Extreme and GameSpace describe it as a "heartfelt" and "gorgeous" adventure, while Vandal and Wccftech commend its "artistic design" and "strong visual identity." The game’s puzzles and exploration are frequently lauded for their ingenuity, with GameCritics noting its "visual and mechanical creativity," and GameSpew calling it an "enchanting, immersive adventure." Additionally, the narrative’s ambiguity and environmental storytelling resonate with reviewers like Eurogamer Italy, who appreciate its "bold, ambitious" approach to world-building. These elements collectively position Hob as a memorable experience for fans of indie adventures and puzzle-platformers. However, several critics point to significant flaws that hinder its impact. Technical issues, such as control quirks, navigation challenges, and performance inconsistencies across platforms, are recurring complaints. DualShockers criticizes the "technical issues" and "repetitive gameplay," while Destructoid and Gameplanet argue that the game’s "weak gameplay mechanics" and "lack of polish" prevent it from reaching its potential. The narrative is also frequently described as shallow or underdeveloped, with IGN noting its "lack of narrative depth" and Gameblog.fr acknowledging a "unclear narrative." Combat and pacing issues further detract from the experience, as highlighted by Vgames and Impulsegamer, who find the mechanics "simplistic" and "underdeveloped." These shortcomings create a disconnect between the game’s ambitious design and its execution, leaving some critics frustrated despite its charm. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Hob is a worthwhile, if imperfect, experience. Many praise its ability to evoke emotion and immersion through its atmosphere and creativity, with GameStar calling it "rewarding" and MMORPG.com recommending it for fans of puzzle-platformers. While some critics, like ZTGD, view it as a "missed opportunity," others, such as Wccftech and IGN, acknowledge its strengths as a standout title in the genre. The game’s charm and unique identity seem to outweigh its flaws for many, particularly on platforms like the Switch, where GameSpace and Nintenderos highlight its "beautiful" and "immersive" qualities. Ultimately, Hob is seen as a niche but compelling adventure that prioritizes creativity over polish, appealing to players who value atmosphere and exploration over traditional gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

A visually stunning, ambitiously crafted puzzle-platformer that dazzles with its biomechanical art style and immersive atmosphere but falters under clunky controls, repetitive gameplay, and a shallow narrative, leaving fans of creative exploration torn between its charm and flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

91 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Sep 20, 2019

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

The game is praised as a great action-adventure with abundant elements of both genres. It successfully blends Zelda-like exploration with Diablo-inspired mechanics, offering a satisfying experience on Switch.

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Wccftech

PlayStation 4

Sep 30, 2017

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

Hob is praised as an exceptional game with a strong visual identity, engaging world, and enjoyable combat. While it has minor flaws like navigation issues and a subdued soundtrack, the review concludes it is rewarding to play and explore, making it a standout in the genre.

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GameSpace

Nintendo Switch

Apr 17, 2019

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

Hob: The Definitive Edition is celebrated as a gorgeous, endearing adventure that successfully translates to Nintendo Switch. It combines beautiful visuals, engaging puzzles, and a whimsical atmosphere, making it a recommended escape for fans of the genre.

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PSX Extreme

PlayStation 4

Sep 28, 2017

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

Hob is a heartfelt, unique adventure that combines exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat into a cohesive experience. While it lacks the polish of AAA titles, its creativity, atmosphere, and emotional depth make it a memorable journey that captures the essence of classic adventure games.

MMORPG.com

Sep 30, 2017

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

Hob is praised as a fantastic game with organic storytelling, excellent sound design, and immersive gameplay. It is recommended for fans of puzzle platformers with light RPG elements.

GameCritics

PlayStation 4

Oct 4, 2017

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

The review concludes that Hob's design choices, while creating a unique and mysterious atmosphere, often frustrate players with unclear guidance. The game's charm lies in its world-building, but the obfuscation of paths and story detracts from the experience, though it remains worth exploring for its visual and mechanical creativity.

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IGN Italia

Oct 9, 2017

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

Hob is praised as a solid, cohesive indie title with strong world design, puzzles, and exploration. Despite technical flaws and a simplistic combat system, it offers enjoyable gameplay and is recommended for its immersive experience.

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GameStar

Oct 8, 2017

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

Hob offers a unique and immersive experience that combines elements of action-adventure games like Zelda and Ico. While it starts with a steep learning curve due to its lack of explicit guidance, the game's charm, atmospheric design, and engaging gameplay ultimately make it a rewarding experience, despite some control limitations on PC.

COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Apr 17, 2019

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

The review concludes that Hob: The Definitive Edition is a solid port well-suited for the Switch, offering a delightful experience despite its unclear narrative and lack of direction. It balances charm with technical polish.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Apr 26, 2019

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

Hob: The Definitive Edition is praised as a beautiful, atmospheric metroidvania that captivates through its world and exploration. Despite minor flaws in combat and technical performance, it is recommended for players seeking a unique, immersive experience.

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