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Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series
Item: Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Drama, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJul 8, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Xbox One

DeveloperMONKEYCRAFT Co. Ltd.

Overview

Klonoa is back! Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series brings back Klonoa: Door to Phantomile and Klonoa 2: Lunatea’s Veil remastered in one collection to fans new and old. Get ready to set off on an adventure to save the world!

Elsewhere

7.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series evokes nostalgia and emotional engagement, with critics praising its charming characters and impactful moments. However, many find the story overly simplistic and generic, criticizing its lack of depth and excessive cutscenes that disrupt gameplay. While the emotional resonance is noted, the narrative fails to evolve significantly, leaving a mixed reception where charm clashes with a desire for substance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series showcases a blend of nostalgia and emotional engagement, particularly for a platformer. Critics such as Nintenduo and TouchArcade highlight the surprisingly emotional depth of the narrative, noting that it resonates well with players, evoking feelings that go beyond the typical fare of the genre. Many reviews, including those from Nintendo Life and Everyeye.it, commend the charming characters and whimsical settings, which contribute to a nostalgic experience reminiscent of childhood adventures. The emotional weight of the story, especially in Door to Phantomile, is frequently cited as a standout feature, with critics like COGconnected and We Got This Covered emphasizing the impact of the narrative's conclusion. On the flip side, several critics express concerns about the story's simplicity and lack of depth. Malditos Nerds and GameSpew argue that the narrative feels generic and overly saccharine, leading to a drag in storytelling that can detract from the gameplay experience. Many reviews, including those from CD-Action and GameSkinny, describe the plot as infantile and lacking complexity, which may not appeal to older audiences. Additionally, the pacing of cutscenes is a common point of criticism, with reviewers like Xbox Achievements and Hooked Gamers noting that excessive cutscenes can disrupt the flow of the game and lead to a sense of tedium. Overall, while the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is appreciated for its emotional moments and charming narrative, the consensus among critics indicates that the story lacks depth and complexity, making it feel simplistic at times. Critics like Nintendo Insider and Digital Chumps acknowledge the engaging aspects of the narrative, yet many also agree that the storytelling does not significantly evolve from the original games, as noted by Hobby Consolas and Destructoid. The remastering of the series has not drastically changed the narrative's core, leading to a mixed reception where the charm and nostalgia are often overshadowed by a desire for a more substantial story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series impresses with nostalgic charm and engaging 2.5D platforming, thanks to its unique wind bullet mechanic and cooperative play options. Critics praise its accessibility and level design, appealing to both newcomers and genre veterans. However, concerns about simplicity, repetitive puzzles, floaty controls, and linearity leave some players yearning for deeper gameplay. Overall, it's a fun homage to classic platformers, though not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, particularly for its nostalgic charm and accessibility. Reviewers like IGN Italia and NintendoWorldReport have praised the game for its well-designed levels and engaging 2.5D platforming mechanics, highlighting the unique wind bullet mechanic that adds depth to both platforming and puzzle-solving. Critics from Destructoid and Pure Nintendo noted that the gameplay is reminiscent of classic platformers, which appeals to both new players and those familiar with the genre. Additionally, the inclusion of cooperative play and difficulty settings, as pointed out by SomosXbox, enhances the experience by allowing players to tailor their challenge level, making it more inclusive. However, several criticisms have emerged regarding the simplicity and lack of challenge in the gameplay. Critics like Screen Rant and Malditos Nerds expressed concerns that the mechanics may feel too basic or repetitive, with puzzles often being obvious and platforming sections lacking excitement. The frustration with floaty controls and timing issues was also highlighted by TheSixthAxis and SECTOR.sk, suggesting that while the gameplay is straightforward, it can lead to moments of annoyance, especially in later levels. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Gamezebo and Wccftech, mentioned that the game's linearity and limited mechanics might not satisfy players seeking a more complex or varied experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series successfully captures the essence of classic platformers while introducing unique mechanics that keep the gameplay engaging. However, the simplicity and occasional frustration with controls and challenge levels have left some players wanting more depth. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Hardcore Gamer emphasized the balance of enjoyment and challenge, suggesting that while the game may not revolutionize the genre, it offers a satisfying experience for those who appreciate its nostalgic roots and inventive mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series impresses with its vibrant visuals and nostalgic charm, earning praise for modern adaptations of classic aesthetics. However, criticisms arise over inconsistent quality and a dated feel that may disappoint some fans. While the remaster balances nostalgia with modernity, it struggles to fully satisfy expectations across the board.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful aesthetics. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and Digital Chumps, highlighted the charming and nostalgic visual style that effectively captures the essence of the original titles while adapting to modern resolutions. Critics like Cubed3 and Gaming Age noted the bright and beautiful graphics, which reflect the game's whimsical world, enhancing the overall experience. The remaster's ability to maintain a balance between fidelity and modernity has also been praised, with Jeuxvideo.com commending the visual redesign for the original Klonoa as appealing even against newer platformers. However, the remaster has not been without its criticisms. Some reviewers, including Gamezebo and Hooked Gamers, pointed out that the visual presentation can feel poorly executed, especially when considering the simplicity of the gameplay and the age of the titles. The inconsistency in detail across different platforms, particularly noted by critics like The Mako Reactor and Everyeye.it, suggests that while some areas have been improved, others appear flat or lack the charm of the original pixel art. Additionally, the pixel filter option has received mixed reviews, with some finding it unattractive, as noted by Wccftech, while others feel it adds a nostalgic touch. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series offers a visually appealing remaster with vibrant colors and charming character designs, it also suffers from inconsistencies and a dated aesthetic that may not satisfy all players, particularly those with a strong attachment to the original art style. Critics like NME and PlayStation Universe emphasized that the remastered visuals, while attractive, may not meet the expectations of modern gamers. Ultimately, the remaster strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernity, but opinions vary on how successfully it achieves this goal.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series are widely praised for their nostalgic charm and enhancement of gameplay, with remastered soundtracks receiving high marks for quality. Critics commend the engaging atmosphere, particularly in Lunatea’s Veil, but some elements have aged poorly, leading to mixed feelings about the voice acting and certain tracks. Despite these critiques, the overall auditory experience is seen as a delightful upgrade, appealing to both newcomers and longtime fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound 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 music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series have received a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the infectious and memorable soundtracks that enhance the gaming experience. Reviewers like Noisy Pixel and Hobby Consolas highlighted the charm of the remastered music, noting how it retains the original's quality while enhancing the overall experience. Critics such as GamingBolt and TierraGamer echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the nostalgic and cheerful nature of the compositions that complement the vibrant levels of the game. The sound design, particularly in titles like Lunatea’s Veil, has been recognized for its enjoyable sound effects and engaging atmosphere, contributing positively to the emotional experience, as noted by GameCritics and Jeuxvideo.com. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music as well. Some reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe and NintendoWorldReport, pointed out that while the original soundtracks are celebrated, certain audio elements have aged poorly, with some tracks being described as forgettable or annoying. The voice acting has also drawn mixed reactions; Pure Nintendo and Malditos Nerds criticized the high-pitched gibberish of the characters, which detracted from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Attack of the Fanboy mentioned that the original audio could feel jarring when juxtaposed with the updated visuals, indicating a disconnect that some players may experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series successfully delivers a charming and nostalgic auditory experience, with the remastered soundtracks receiving significant praise for their quality and emotional resonance. While there are criticisms regarding certain audio elements and voice acting, the positive aspects of the music and sound design largely overshadow these shortcomings. Reviewers like Wccftech and Universo Nintendo noted the improvements made in the remaster, which have enhanced the overall audio experience, making it a delightful addition for both new players and fans of the original games.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is a mixed bag; praised for its nostalgic charm and emotional resonance through a whimsical fictional language, yet criticized for audio issues and high-pitched, grating performances that can irritate players. While some enjoy the quirky appeal, others find it detracts from the overall experience, highlighting a divide among critics and players alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The voice acting in Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series has garnered a mix of positive sentiments from critics, particularly regarding its nostalgic charm. Several reviewers, such as IGN Italia and Atomix, appreciate the use of a fictional language, likening it to the unique dialects found in titles like Okami. This invented language is seen as a way to enhance the game's whimsical atmosphere, with Checkpoint Gaming noting that the playful mumble-speak style fits well with the overall tone of the game, adding to the enjoyment. Additionally, critics like Hooked Gamers have pointed out that, despite the characters speaking gibberish, the voice acting effectively conveys emotions, suggesting that the performances can still resonate with players on an emotional level. However, a considerable number of reviews highlight significant drawbacks in the voice acting. For instance, Noisy Pixel mentions issues with audio balancing that result in characters' vocals being drowned out, while Screen Rant describes the voice acting as grating, indicating a lack of quality. Critics like Malditos Nerds and SECTOR.sk also express dissatisfaction with the excessively high-pitched voices, which some players may find irritating. Furthermore, Pure Nintendo notes that the gibberish can become annoying over time, detracting from the enjoyment of cutscenes. These critiques suggest that while the voice acting aims for charm, it may not resonate positively with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is a double-edged sword. While it offers a nostalgic and whimsical touch that some players appreciate, the execution has notable flaws that can detract from the experience. The mixed reviews highlight a divide between those who enjoy the quirky charm of the fictional language and those who find the high-pitched and sometimes grating performances to be a hindrance. Critics like Vooks and GamingBolt encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the charm of the original dialogue while also hinting at its potential to be jarring for others. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as a defining feature of the game, eliciting both affection and criticism from its audience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series excels on PS5 and Xbox Series X, delivering smooth 60fps and 4K performance with quick load times and gameplay improvements. However, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from frame rate issues, dropping to 50-60fps and affecting control responsiveness, leading to mixed reviews. Overall, while the remaster impresses on modern consoles, the Switch version falls short of expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series has generally received positive feedback across all platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Critics like Destructoid and PSX Brasil praised the remaster for its polished and stable performance, with many reviews noting a smooth experience at 60 frames per second and 4K resolution. The remaster's enhancements, such as faster load times and quality-of-life improvements, have also been highlighted by critics like PlayStation Universe and Hobby Consolas, who noted the added responsiveness compared to the original. The Xbox Series X version has similarly been acknowledged for its smooth performance, with Video Chums and XboxEra reporting virtually no performance issues, contributing to a stable gaming experience. However, the Nintendo Switch version has faced criticism for its technical performance, with several reviewers pointing out frame rate inconsistencies. Critics like Gamezebo and Nintendo Insider reported that the Switch version struggles to maintain a steady frame rate, often hovering around 50-60 frames per second and experiencing noticeable drops during gameplay. This has led to concerns about the overall responsiveness of the controls, as mentioned by NintendoWorldReport and Switch Player, who noted that while the game remains playable, the performance issues detract from the experience. Additionally, some minor technical issues were reported on PC, such as finicky platforming controls and persistent visual glitches, as highlighted by GamingTrend and COGconnected. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series performs exceptionally well on modern consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X, with minor technical imperfections noted in some areas. The PlayStation 5 version, in particular, has been praised for its smooth frame rates and stability, with only minor interface issues mentioned by Eurogamer Italy and Everyeye.it. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version has garnered mixed reviews, with many critics expressing disappointment over its inconsistent performance, which could hinder the enjoyment of the remaster. Despite these concerns, the overall sentiment remains positive, suggesting that while the remaster shines on certain platforms, it may not fully meet expectations on the Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series charms with engaging gameplay and unlockable content, but its short length (3-6 hours) and minimal rewards leave critics doubting its replay value. While difficulty settings and collectibles add some incentive, nostalgia is the primary draw, with many feeling the remaster lacks enough new content to entice repeated play. Overall, replayability is viewed as moderate at best.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series reveal a few positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Many reviewers, such as Nintendo Life and Video Chums, emphasize the charm and engaging gameplay of the titles, which can entice players to revisit them. The inclusion of various difficulty settings, as noted by PlayStation Universe and Nintendo World Report, adds a layer of replayability, allowing players to tailor their experience to their skill level. Additionally, Universo Nintendo points out that rescuing all inhabitants unlocks an extra stage, providing a tangible incentive for completionists. Critics like PSX Brasil and Attack of the Fanboy also mention collectibles and additional modes, such as time trials, which can enhance the overall experience and encourage exploration. However, the critiques also reveal significant concerns regarding the limited replay value of the Klonoa games. Many reviewers, including Gamezebo and NME, note that the short length of the games—typically around three to six hours—may not provide enough content to justify multiple playthroughs. Critics like Malditos Nerds and Destructoid express that the lack of substantial rewards for completion and the ease of obtaining collectibles diminish the motivation to replay. Furthermore, GameOver.gr highlights that the remaster may not attract players who have already experienced the original titles, suggesting a narrow appeal for returning players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while there are elements that could encourage replayability, such as collectibles and difficulty modes, the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series suffers from limitations that may deter players from revisiting the games frequently. Many reviews indicate that the nostalgia factor plays a significant role in replay value, as noted by Hobby Consolas and Vandal, but the lack of new content and the short gameplay length leave some critics, like Screen Rant and TheSixthAxis, feeling that the overall replay value is constrained. Thus, while the series may appeal to both new and returning players, its replayability is ultimately seen as moderate at best.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is mixed, with many critics highlighting its nostalgic appeal and solid gameplay. Reviewers such as Vooks and SomosXbox praised the remaster for successfully reviving the charm of the original games, making it enjoyable for both new players and returning fans. Critics like Wccftech and Digital Downloaded noted the engaging stories and emotional depth, contributing to a delightful experience. The remaster's quality in terms of visuals and audio enhancements was also recognized by several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer, who called it a definitive edition of the platformers. Additionally, many critics appreciated the nostalgic value and the accessibility of the gameplay, with CD-Action and Pocket Tactics emphasizing its appeal to a new generation of players. On the flip side, numerous critiques pointed out significant shortcomings in the remaster. Malditos Nerds and Gamezebo described the collection as underwhelming, lacking innovation and depth, which could deter seasoned players. Critics like GameSpew and TheSixthAxis echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the nostalgia factor is strong, the remaster shows its age and may not satisfy modern platforming standards. Moreover, many reviewers, including Cubed3 and The Mako Reactor, pointed out the lack of additional content and enhancements that could have elevated the experience. Some critics also raised concerns about technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, where performance was noted as subpar compared to other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series offers a charming and nostalgic experience, it ultimately falls short of modern expectations. Critics like Screen Rant and Eurogamer Italy highlighted the lack of significant new content and depth, which could limit its appeal to a broader audience. However, there remains a strong recommendation for fans of the franchise and newcomers to the platforming genre, as noted by reviewers like Gaming Age and NME, who found enjoyment in the gameplay despite the remaster's flaws. The collection is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those looking to reconnect with the beloved Klonoa series, but it may be better appreciated during sales or by those with a fondness for classic platformers.

TL;DR

The Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series remaster packs nostalgia and solid gameplay, winning praise for its charm and emotional depth. However, it falls short on innovation, lacking fresh content and showing its age, especially on the Switch. While fans of the original may enjoy it, critics warn that modern players might find it underwhelming. Best for die-hard fans or on sale.

MONSTER

Reviews

100 reviews found

Movies Games and Tech

Nintendo Switch

Jul 20, 2022

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

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is a delightful platformer that combines nostalgia with engaging gameplay, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Jul 19, 2022

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

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is considered one of the best platforming collections, praised for its level design, puzzles, and boss battles, despite minor hiccups.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jul 26, 2022

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

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie is a delightful remaster of classic games that holds up well, offering enjoyable gameplay and charming visuals, making it a worthwhile experience.

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Video Chums

Xbox Series X

Jul 10, 2022

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

KLONOA Phantasy Reverie Series is a must-play for fans of platformers, showcasing two incredible games that deliver lighthearted yet challenging puzzle platforming fun.

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Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Jul 26, 2022

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

The overall impression is positive, noting the enjoyment of the games and hope for a larger audience for Klonoa.

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Pocket Tactics

Nintendo Switch

Jul 6, 2022

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

The Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is praised as a superb collection of platform games that successfully revives a beloved character, offering fun and intricately designed levels.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jul 25, 2022

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

Overall, the Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is praised for its charm, gameplay, and nostalgic value, making it a worthwhile experience.

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TheGamer

PlayStation 5

Jul 11, 2022

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

The remaster is a nostalgic trip for fans, offering a faithful experience of the originals with some quality of life improvements, making it a great deal for both returning players and newcomers.

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Wccftech

PlayStation 5

Jul 17, 2022

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

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is an excellent remaster that successfully revives the original games, offering engaging stories and challenging gameplay, despite some minor drawbacks.

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GameOver.gr

PlayStation 5

Aug 12, 2022

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

Klonoa: Phantasy Reverie Series is a solid remaster that celebrates the franchise's anniversary, but may not appeal to those who have already experienced the original games extensively.

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