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LEGO Horizon Adventures

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of LEGO Horizon Adventures
Item: LEGO Horizon Adventures
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 14, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

DeveloperStudio Gobo

Overview

Join machine hunter Aloy as she leads a colorful crew of heroes through the lush wilderness on a quest to save the world and learn the secrets of her past. Dive into boundless adventure, customize to your heart’s content, and take on action-packed battles solo or with friends in co-op.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures gets high marks for its playful, family-friendly spin on Horizon Zero Dawn, making it accessible and fun for all ages. Critics praise its humor and themes of friendship but lament the narrative's simplification and lack of emotional depth. While it successfully introduces newcomers to the franchise, die-hard fans may find the story too shallow and less impactful. Overall, it’s a charming experience that sacrifices complexity for light-hearted enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of LEGO Horizon Adventures from various critics is largely positive, highlighting its playful and humorous adaptation of the original Horizon Zero Dawn narrative. Many reviewers appreciate the game’s ability to reinterpret Aloy’s journey in a family-friendly manner, making it accessible to younger audiences. For instance, Atomix and Daily Star commend the incorporation of humor and the light-hearted tone that characterizes the game, allowing it to engage both children and adults. Critics like GamingTrend and Vandal emphasize the themes of friendship and collaboration, which resonate well within the LEGO format, enhancing the appeal of the story. The whimsical retelling, as noted by GameSpot, successfully captures the essence of the original while adding a comedic twist that makes it enjoyable for newcomers. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks, primarily related to the simplification and lack of depth in the narrative. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport express disappointment over the sidelining of key elements from the original plot, suggesting that the adaptation lacks the emotional weight and complexity that defined Horizon Zero Dawn. Furthermore, Gameblog.fr and IGN Adria note that while the humor is entertaining, it often comes at the expense of a more serious and engaging storyline, which may alienate fans of the original game. Critics like Meristation and RPG Fan also mention that certain plot points and character developments are glossed over, resulting in a narrative that feels less impactful and more like a parody than a faithful retelling. The overall consensus among critics is that LEGO Horizon Adventures successfully delivers a light-hearted and humorous take on the beloved franchise, albeit at the cost of narrative depth and complexity. While many reviewers appreciate the game’s charm and accessibility, particularly for younger players, there is a shared sentiment that the story could have benefited from a more nuanced approach. Critics such as GIGA and VGC capture this sentiment well, acknowledging the witty writing and engaging characters while also noting the simplification of darker themes. Ultimately, the game stands as a fun, entertaining experience that introduces the Horizon universe to a new generation, but it may leave die-hard fans wanting more from the narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures shines with engaging combat and diverse characters, especially in co-op mode, but suffers from repetitive, linear gameplay and a lack of depth. Critics celebrate its fun mechanics while lamenting the monotonous level design, leading to a mixed reception that highlights both its enjoyment and significant flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of LEGO Horizon Adventures has garnered a mix of positive feedback, particularly regarding its combat mechanics and character diversity. Critics like But Why Tho? and CGMagazine highlight the engaging nature of combat, praising the distinct characters and their unique abilities that offer varied combat options. The co-op mode is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, enhancing the fun factor and replayability of the game, as noted by Daily Star and TierraGamer. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GameSpot and GamesRadar+, appreciate the tactical elements of combat and the incorporation of environmental tactics, which can make encounters more dynamic and rewarding. However, many critics express concerns about the repetitive and linear nature of the gameplay. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport emphasize the lack of depth and variety in level design, which detracts from the overall experience. The simplicity of the gameplay loop is echoed by several reviewers, including COGconnected and IGN, who note that the game feels like it lacks complexity and strategic depth. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Hobby Consolas point out that the linear missions and predictable level designs contribute to a monotonous experience, with some even suggesting that the game deviates from traditional LEGO gameplay elements, which may alienate long-time fans. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while LEGO Horizon Adventures offers enjoyable combat and character diversity, it suffers from significant shortcomings in level design and gameplay depth. Many reviewers, including GamePro Germany and GamingBolt, agree that the game is fun, particularly in co-op mode, but the linearity and repetitiveness of missions hinder its long-term appeal. The balance between engaging combat and a lack of exploration and variety appears to be a critical point of contention, leading to a mixed reception that highlights both the game's entertaining aspects and its notable flaws.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures wows critics with its vibrant, cartoonish graphics and detailed environments, praised for blending LEGO charm with immersive design, particularly on PS5 with ray tracing. However, some point out minor clipping issues and a lack of complexity in level design, suggesting it feels more like a PS4 title. Overall, it's celebrated as one of the best-looking LEGO games, capturing the essence of the franchise despite a few shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of LEGO Horizon Adventures have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's impressive aesthetics. Reviewers from various outlets, such as Nintendo Life and CGMagazine, highlighted the vibrant and cartoonish graphics that align perfectly with the LEGO aesthetic. Critics like But Why Tho? and God is a Geek noted the stunning visuals and detailed environments that effectively recreate the rich landscapes of the Horizon series, showcasing a unique blend of LEGO charm and immersive design. The use of advanced technologies, such as ray tracing on the PS5, further enhances the visual experience, as mentioned by Digital Chumps and IGN Adria, making it one of the most visually appealing LEGO games to date. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the game's visual execution. For instance, Gameblog.fr mentioned minor clipping issues, while Gamersky suggested that the graphics performance felt more aligned with PS4 standards rather than fully utilizing the PS5's capabilities. Additionally, some reviewers, like GINX TV and Voxel, noted that while the visuals are charming, the linearity and repetitiveness of the level design detracted from the overall experience, suggesting that the environments, while beautifully crafted, could benefit from more complexity and variety. Overall, the consensus among critics is that LEGO Horizon Adventures boasts impressive graphics and visual design, with a majority agreeing that it stands out as one of the best-looking LEGO titles available. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Meristation emphasized the game's ability to blend the LEGO aesthetic with detailed environments and character animations, creating a delightful visual experience. While there are some criticisms regarding performance and level design, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game successfully captures the essence of the LEGO universe, making it a visually stunning addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures boasts exceptional sound design and music, with critics praising the returning original voice cast for their playful and charming performances. The soundtrack cleverly blends elements from Horizon Zero Dawn with EDM and pop, enhancing the game's vibrant atmosphere. However, some concerns arose over a key voice actor's replacement and inconsistencies in localization quality. Despite minor criticisms, the game's sound design and music are largely celebrated, significantly enriching the overall player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of LEGO Horizon Adventures have received widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers highlighted the exceptional voice acting, with notable mentions of the original cast returning to reprise their roles, which adds authenticity and charm to the characters. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and COGconnected praised the playful and humorous delivery of the voice lines, enhancing the overall experience. The music has also been well-received, with IGN noting a fantastic soundtrack that combines elements from Horizon Zero Dawn with EDM and pop influences, contributing positively to the game’s atmosphere. Additionally, the sound design features natural ambient sounds and lively music that complement gameplay, as pointed out by Atomix and Vandal, further enriching the immersive experience. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics expressed concerns regarding specific aspects of the sound design and music. NintendoWorldReport mentioned worries about the replacement of a key character's voice actor, which could impact the continuity for long-time fans. While the majority of reviews praised the voice acting, GIGA noted that the German dub fell short in comparison to the English version, suggesting inconsistencies in localization quality. Furthermore, Digital Chumps pointed out that while the return of familiar voice actors adds charm, the sound design itself was not explicitly detailed, indicating that some critics felt it could have been more thoroughly explored. Overall, the consensus among critics is that LEGO Horizon Adventures excels in sound design and music, creating a vibrant and engaging experience for players. The combination of humorous voice acting, catchy and fitting music, and well-executed sound effects has resonated positively with many reviewers. Critics such as GamesRadar+ and RPG Fan emphasized the delightful voice performances and the effective integration of music that enhances gameplay moments. While there are minor criticisms regarding specific voice acting choices and localization, the overwhelming sentiment is that the sound design and music significantly contribute to the fun and whimsical tone of the game, making it a standout feature in the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures' voice acting is a standout feature, with Ashley Burch's enthusiastic portrayal of Aloy earning particular praise for enhancing the game's humor. Critics commend the returning cast for their engaging performances, which significantly contribute to the playful atmosphere. However, some concerns about new characters’ voice performances, including inconsistencies in quality, have been noted. Overall, the voice acting is seen as a major strength, delighting both fans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in LEGO Horizon Adventures has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the return of several original voice actors. Notably, Ashley Burch's portrayal of Aloy has been highlighted for its infectious enthusiasm and lightheartedness, aligning perfectly with the game's comedic tone. Critics from Nintendo Life and CGMagazine specifically noted her performance as a standout, enhancing the charm and humor of the game. The overall cast, including JB Blanc as Rost, has been commended for delivering engaging performances that contribute to the playful atmosphere, as noted by COGconnected and Checkpoint Gaming. The humor infused into the characters' dialogue has been recognized as a significant factor in making the game enjoyable, with reviewers from GameSpot and GamePro Germany emphasizing how the voice acting elevates the overall experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have raised concerns regarding certain aspects of the voice acting. For instance, NintendoWorldReport pointed out issues with the new voice for a key character, which may detract from the experience for some players. IGN echoed this sentiment, noting that while most original actors returned, some new performances, particularly that of Sylens, felt flat in comparison to the energetic portrayals of other characters. Additionally, while the majority of the voice acting was praised for its humor and charm, a few reviews hinted at inconsistencies in performance quality across the cast, suggesting that not all characters received the same level of attention. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in LEGO Horizon Adventures is a significant strength of the game, contributing positively to its charm and humor. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the returning cast and their ability to adapt to the light-hearted, comedic style of the LEGO franchise. Critics like Areajugones and Gameblog.fr encapsulated this sentiment by describing the voice acting as "perfect" and "strong," respectively. The combination of familiar voices and engaging performances creates an entertaining experience that resonates well with both fans of the original series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures shines on PS5 with stellar performance and smooth visuals, earning praise from critics. However, it faces minor issues like ray-tracing artifacts and frame-rate problems. The Nintendo Switch version delivers a solid 30fps but struggles with resolution in handheld mode, though it performs decently during couch co-op. Overall, while both versions have flaws, the PS5 experience stands out as the superior choice.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of LEGO Horizon Adventures has garnered generally positive feedback, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critics such as Areajugones and Eurogamer Poland praised the game for its impeccable performance, highlighting the availability of different graphical modes that maintain high visual fidelity. Many reviewers, including GameGrin and GIGA, noted a smooth experience with no crashes or glitches, while IGN Adria and GLHF on Sports Illustrated emphasized the stability of frame rates, especially in performance mode. On the Nintendo Switch, opinions were more mixed, with Nintendo Life acknowledging a solid 30fps frame rate in docked mode, although the resolution suffered in handheld mode. NintendoWorldReport appreciated the game’s performance during couch co-op, indicating a generally reliable experience. However, there were notable criticisms regarding technical performance on both platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, the resolution issues in handheld mode were a significant concern, which could detract from the overall experience. For the PS5, while many reviews were positive, some critics pointed out specific problems, such as GamesRadar+ mentioning ray-tracing artifacting and IGN Italia highlighting frame-rate issues in quality mode. Additionally, minor graphical glitches like clipping were noted by Gameblog.fr, and Gamersky pointed out loading time issues that could disrupt gameplay. These criticisms indicate that while the PS5 version is largely solid, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that LEGO Horizon Adventures performs well, particularly on the PS5, where the majority of reviews reflect a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience. While the Nintendo Switch version has its merits, particularly in terms of frame rate during couch co-op, it suffers from resolution issues that could impact handheld play. The PS5 version is celebrated for its technical quality, with many reviewers like MGG and TierraGamer praising its polished experience despite some minor issues. Ultimately, while LEGO Horizon Adventures has its share of technical challenges, especially on the Switch, the overall reception leans towards a positive outlook, particularly for players on the PlayStation 5.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures garners mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise co-op gameplay, character upgrades, and side missions that can extend playtime to 10-15 hours. However, many express disappointment over its linearity, repetitive gameplay, and lack of mission replayability, leading to a sense of monotony. Overall, while there are fun elements, the game's limitations significantly undermine its long-term appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of LEGO Horizon Adventures present a mixed bag of sentiments, with several critics highlighting positive aspects that enhance the game's longevity. For instance, Daily Star and GameSpew emphasize the enjoyable co-op gameplay and character upgrades, which encourage players to revisit the game. Critics like CGMagazine and GamingTrend also note the variety in play styles and customization options available, suggesting that these elements can keep players engaged for longer periods. Additionally, Areajugones mentions that the game can be extended to 10-15 hours through exploration and side tasks, indicating that there are opportunities for players to delve deeper into the game beyond the main story. However, a significant number of reviewers express concerns over the game's replayability, primarily due to its linear structure and repetitive gameplay. Nintendo Life and GamePro Germany point out the lack of mission replayability and minimal rewards for exploration, which can lead to a feeling of monotony. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and IGN Adria echo this sentiment, stating that the limited diversity in exploration and character differentiation may cause boredom, particularly for older players. Furthermore, many reviewers, including Gameliner and Player 2, mention the game's short campaign length, which inherently limits the potential for replay value, as players may feel that they have experienced all the game has to offer after a few sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while LEGO Horizon Adventures offers some replay value through co-op play, character upgrades, and side missions, these elements are often overshadowed by the game's linearity and repetitive nature. Many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and TheSixthAxis, agree that the lack of innovative features compared to previous LEGO titles and the inability to replay story missions significantly diminish the game's long-term appeal. As a result, while there are enjoyable aspects that may attract players for short bursts, the overall sentiment leans towards a recognition of the game's limitations in providing substantial replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its engaging gameplay and charming visuals. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Daily Star, praised the game for its humor and appeal to a wide audience, including both younger players and fans of the original Horizon series. The game is frequently described as visually stunning, with impressive graphics and solid combat mechanics, as noted by GINX TV and God is a Geek. Additionally, the co-op gameplay is highlighted as a strong point, enhancing the family-friendly experience, as mentioned by critics like Gamersky and GIGA. However, several reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks that hinder the overall experience. A common criticism is the game's lack of depth and variety, with many critics, including Nintendo Life and GameSpot, noting that the gameplay can feel repetitive and shallow. The game’s short length and limited content have also been highlighted as concerns, with RPG Fan and MGG mentioning that the price point may not reflect the value offered, particularly for older players seeking more substantial gameplay. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Multiplayer.it echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that while the game is enjoyable, it leaves a sense of incompleteness and could have benefited from more extensive development. Overall, the consensus among critics is that LEGO Horizon Adventures is a fun and light-hearted adaptation that successfully merges the worlds of LEGO and Horizon Zero Dawn, appealing primarily to a younger audience and casual players. While it excels in humor, visuals, and cooperative gameplay, many reviewers agree that it lacks the depth and innovation that die-hard fans of either franchise might expect. Critics such as IGN and Eurogamer Poland suggest that while the game is enjoyable, it may not stand out among larger titles, ultimately making it a solid but limited experience.

TL;DR

LEGO Horizon Adventures charms with engaging gameplay and stunning visuals, winning praise for its humor and co-op features. However, critics flag its lack of depth, short length, and limited content, leaving older players craving more. It's a fun, family-friendly title, but fails to meet the expectations of hardcore fans, making it a solid yet superficial experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

151 reviews found

100

GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Dec 10, 2024

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

The game is described as outstanding, funny, and enjoyable, making it a must-have for fans.

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Gameliner

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures successfully combines the worlds of LEGO and Horizon Zero Dawn, offering enjoyable gameplay and humor, though it may feel short for its price.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures is a complete package for fans of LEGO games and the Horizon series, offering an approachable and engaging experience for players of all ages.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 14, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures is an excellent entry that successfully merges both franchises, offering engaging gameplay and stunning visuals.

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The New York Times

PlayStation 5

Nov 20, 2024

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

Overall, the game is a fun and lighthearted take on the Horizon franchise, appealing to both fans and newcomers with its humor and engaging gameplay.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

Best Lego game played, hilarious and heartwarming, gorgeous visuals, chock-full of content, plays it safe but has everything fans could want

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Areajugones

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures is a fun and visually stunning game that, while not perfect in gameplay variety and length, provides an enjoyable experience that appeals to fans of both franchises.

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Voxel

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures is enjoyable for LEGO fans and newcomers, but may not satisfy die-hard Horizon fans due to its simplified content and gameplay.

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GamesHub

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

A frenetic, lively adventure that elevates itself beyond doubts with its silliness and glee.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Nov 13, 2024

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

LEGO Horizon Adventures is one of the best LEGO games with remarkable visuals, fluid gameplay, familiar humor, and nods to the original series, despite some repetitive elements in combat.

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