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Lies of P: Overture

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Lies of P: Overture
Item: Lies of P: Overture
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJun 6, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperRound 8 Studio of NEOWIZ

Overview

Lies of P: Overture is a dramatic prequel to the acclaimed soulslike action RPG, Lies of P. It transports you to the city of Krat in its final days of haunting, late-19th-century Belle Époque beauty. On the brink of the Puppet Frenzy massacre, you follow a legendary Stalker—a mysterious guide—through untold stories and chilling secrets. As Geppetto’s deadly puppet, you’ll journey through Krat and its surroundings, uncover hidden backstories, and face epic battles that shape the past and future of Lies of P.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Lies of P: Overture" is a well-received DLC that deepens the narrative of the original game, exploring complex themes and enhancing character development. Critics praise its integration into the main story and emotional impact, though some note issues with character relationships and coherence. Overall, it enriches the franchise, serving as both a prequel and an epilogue, making it a worthwhile addition for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of "Lies of P: Overture" has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who appreciate its ability to enrich the narrative of the base game while exploring deeper themes. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Game Informer, highlight the seamless integration of the DLC into the main narrative, emphasizing its exploration of complex themes like sadness and the human-puppet dynamic. Critics like IGN and TechRadar Gaming commend the DLC for filling in narrative gaps, providing satisfying answers to lingering questions, and enhancing the emotional weight of the original story. The expansion's focus on character development and worldbuilding, as noted by GameGrin and RPG Site, further elevates the narrative experience, making it engaging and accessible even for those who may have forgotten details from the main game. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the story's execution. Eurogamer Germany expressed that while the narrative has potential, it lacks depth in exploring key character relationships, particularly concerning characters like Romeo and Carlo. Loot Level Chill echoed this sentiment, noting that certain elements felt messy and immersion-breaking, which detracted from the overall coherence of the story. Additionally, while some reviewers acknowledged the DLC's engaging narrative, others, like GamingBolt, mentioned that it does not introduce significant new plot points, making it feel somewhat self-contained and limiting its impact on the overarching storyline. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Lies of P: Overture" is a strong narrative expansion that successfully deepens the lore and emotional core of the original game. While there are valid critiques regarding character depth and narrative coherence, the majority of reviewers, including GamingTrend and IGN Italia, agree that the DLC serves as both a prequel and an epilogue, providing clarity and enriching the player’s understanding of the world of Krat. Overall, the positive reception highlights the DLC's ability to enhance the storytelling experience, making it a valuable addition to the "Lies of P" franchise.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Lies of P: Overture" impresses with engaging combat, new weapons, and adjustable difficulty, appealing to both newbies and veterans. Critics praise its boss fights and exploration but highlight issues like repetitive mechanics, linear level design, and some combat stiffness. Overall, it's a solid expansion that enhances the original game, despite some balancing concerns.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of "Lies of P: Overture" has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, such as GameGrin and Game Informer, praised the introduction of new weapons and Legion Arms, which add depth and variety to the combat system. The challenging gameplay remains a focal point, with critics like TechRadar Gaming emphasizing the masterful design of boss fights that provide a fair challenge. Additionally, the inclusion of adjustable difficulty options has been noted by multiple reviewers, including Gamesurf and IGN Italia, making the game more accessible while still catering to veteran players. The exploration opportunities and interconnected level design have also been appreciated, as seen in the opinions of GameBlast and RPG Site, who noted the expansion of areas and the introduction of quality-of-life improvements. Despite the many positives, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses within the gameplay. A common critique is that some mechanics can feel repetitive, as mentioned by COGconnected, and the level design is often described as linear, limiting exploration potential. Critics like Noisy Pixel and GamingTrend highlighted issues with camera and collision mechanics that detract from the overall experience, while others, such as Loot Level Chill and TheXboxHub, noted that the combat can feel stiff and slow at times. Furthermore, some reviewers, including But Why Tho? and The So Videogames Podcast, pointed out inconsistencies in difficulty spikes, suggesting that balancing issues remain a concern. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Lies of P: Overture" successfully builds upon the foundation of the base game while introducing new elements that enhance gameplay. While the combat remains largely unchanged, the addition of new weapons, enemies, and difficulty settings has been well-received, with many reviewers acknowledging the balance between challenge and accessibility. However, the game is not without its flaws, as criticisms regarding repetitive mechanics, linear design, and balancing issues persist. Ultimately, the expansion seems to resonate well with fans of the original game, offering a familiar yet enriched experience that invites both new and returning players to dive into its challenging world.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Lies of P: Overture impresses with its intricate level design and stunning visuals, earning praise for its atmospheric Belle Époque aesthetic and artful environments. Critics highlight the game's ability to blend beauty and horror effectively. However, some areas, like certain mid-level locations, fall flat with uninspired designs, leading to mixed opinions on visual consistency. Overall, the game's graphics are a strong point, creating a captivating experience despite a few shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Lies of P: Overture have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who commend the intricate level design and artistic environments that enhance the overall experience. COGconnected highlights the artistic intricacies of levels like the Krat Zoo, while Eurogamer Germany praises the animations and character designs that elevate the gameplay. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Loot Level Chill, emphasize the striking art design and atmospheric visuals, noting the successful juxtaposition of beauty and horror throughout the game. The rich Belle Époque aesthetic is also frequently mentioned, with critics like GameGrin and TheXboxHub appreciating the immersive nature of the environments that contribute to the storytelling. However, not all opinions are glowing, as some critics point out areas of concern regarding the visual design. Final Weapon mentions that while the Krat Zoo is beautifully crafted, certain mid-level locations lack inspiration and creativity. Similarly, GameBlast criticizes some mid-sections for being visually uninteresting and repetitive, focusing too heavily on bland corridors and caves. Critical Hits echoes this sentiment, describing some new areas as forgettable and lacking the memorable design expected from an expansion. This suggests a disparity in the quality of visual design across different segments of the game, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Lies of P: Overture features a strong visual design that significantly enhances the gameplay experience, despite some criticisms regarding certain areas lacking appeal. The majority of reviewers, including GamingTrend and IGN Italia, highlight the detailed and polished presentation, with many praising the immersive atmosphere and creative environments. While there are notable criticisms about specific locations, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game's graphics and visual design are commendable, contributing to a captivating and atmospheric experience that resonates with players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Lies of P: Overture" boasts exceptional sound design and music, receiving rave reviews from critics. The soundtrack is described as "extravagant" and "immaculate," enhancing the game's immersive atmosphere and emotional depth. While minor criticisms exist regarding sound diversity, they don't overshadow the overall positive reception. Critics unanimously agree that the game's auditory elements are standout features that significantly elevate the gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Lies of P: Overture" have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's strong auditory elements. Eurogamer Germany praised the soundtrack as "extravagant and enjoyable," emphasizing its contribution to the game's immersive atmosphere. Similarly, Oyungezer noted that the music remains "excellent" and consistent with the main game, enhancing the overall experience. TechRadar Gaming echoed these sentiments, describing the soundtrack and audio design as "immaculate," which further reinforces the game's atmospheric depth. This positive reception is complemented by This Is Game, which pointed out that the music serves a narrative function, enhancing emotional engagement and reflecting character psychology. The sound effects during combat, highlighted by ComicBook, are also noted for providing satisfying feedback, adding to the overall enjoyment of the gameplay experience. While the majority of reviews are favorable, there are some aspects that could be perceived as limitations. However, the critics did not explicitly mention any significant negatives regarding the sound design and music. This absence of criticism suggests that while there may be minor points of contention, they are not substantial enough to detract from the overall quality of the game's audio experience. The only potential area for improvement could be in the diversity of sound effects or musical motifs, but this is speculative and not directly addressed by the reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Lies of P: Overture" excels in its sound design and music, creating a captivating auditory landscape that enhances the gameplay experience. The critics collectively appreciate the way the soundtrack complements the game's atmosphere and narrative, with GamingTrend noting the expansion of the musical palette to fit the game's melancholic tone. The consistent praise from various outlets, including TheXboxHub's acknowledgment of well-crafted sound design, underscores the game's success in delivering an engaging and immersive auditory experience. Thus, it is clear that the sound design and music are standout features of "Lies of P: Overture," contributing significantly to its overall appeal.

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

"Lies of P: Overture" impresses with solid performance across PC and PS5, praised for smooth gameplay and 60fps stability. However, it suffers from notable technical flaws, including camera issues and weapon collisions, particularly on Xbox Series X and some PC reviews. While generally well-received, critics urge further refinement to elevate the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Lies of P: Overture" across different gaming platforms has garnered a generally positive reception from critics. On PC, reviewers such as COGconnected and Gamersky praised the game for its good optimization and stable performance, highlighting quality of life improvements that contribute to a smoother player experience. Similarly, on PS5, both CGMagazine and GamingTrend noted the game's ability to maintain 60fps with strong performance, indicating a polished aesthetic and respectable load times. Even on the Xbox Series X, The So Videogames Podcast reported a stable performance without significant technical issues, reinforcing the game's overall quality across platforms. However, there are notable criticisms regarding technical performance that vary by platform. On PC, while many reviewers like Noisy Pixel acknowledged some technical issues, such as camera misbehavior and weapon collision problems, these were not seen as game-breaking. In contrast, on PS5, IGN Italia pointed out issues with camera stability and enemy damage balancing, suggesting that while the overall performance is high, there are still areas needing attention. The Xbox Series X, while generally stable according to The So Videogames Podcast, faced significant criticism from TheXboxHub, which highlighted camera issues during boss fights that led to frustration and difficulty in gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Lies of P: Overture" delivers a solid technical performance across all platforms, but it is not without its flaws. Most reviewers agree that the game runs smoothly, with stable performance being a common theme, particularly on PC and PS5. However, the presence of camera issues and other minor technical glitches, especially noted on Xbox Series X and in some PC reviews, suggests that while the game is well-crafted, it still requires further refinement to achieve a flawless experience. Critics like GamingBolt and Oyungezer emphasize the importance of these improvements, indicating that while the game is enjoyable, addressing these technical concerns could elevate it further.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Lies of P: Overture offers strong replay value with new difficulty options, gameplay modes, and a boss rush feature that enhances the experience for both casual and hardcore gamers. The DLC adds 10-20 hours of content, including new weapons and challenges. However, some critics warn about minimal choice impact and repetitive elements that might deter players, especially those not fond of high difficulty. Overall, while the enhancements are praised, replayability may depend on individual player preferences and skill levels.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Lies of P: Overture highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal among players. Many critics, such as COGconnected and Game Informer, emphasize the introduction of new difficulty options and gameplay modes, which significantly enhance replayability. The addition of a boss rush mode, as noted by GameSpot and Worth Playing, allows players to revisit previously defeated bosses, catering to both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts. Furthermore, the DLC offers substantial content, with critics like IGN Italia and GameGrin mentioning an additional 10-20 hours of gameplay, new weapons, skills, and challenges that encourage players to explore different strategies and approaches. On the flip side, some reviewers express concerns regarding the limitations of the replay value. Eurogamer Germany points out that while there is potential for exploration and new content, the impact of choices and changes feels minimal, suggesting a lack of depth in replayability. Additionally, critics like Critical Hits and GamingBolt highlight that the repetitive nature of some new areas and the steep difficulty curve may deter certain players from fully engaging with the DLC. This sentiment is echoed by Noisy Pixel, who notes that the challenging experience may limit replayability for those not inclined toward high difficulty levels. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a generally favorable view of the replay value in Lies of P: Overture, particularly for fans of the base game. While there are concerns about the minimal impact of choices and potential repetitiveness, the introduction of new gameplay modes, difficulty settings, and substantial content offers a compelling reason for players to return. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Oyungezer affirm that the enhancements made in the DLC significantly contribute to replayability, though the experience may vary based on individual player preferences and skill levels.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Lies of P: Overture" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its ability to build upon the strengths of the original game. Critics like GameGrin and Game Informer highlight the expansion as a "masterful" and "excellent" addition, respectively, emphasizing how it enhances the narrative and gameplay experience. The expansion is frequently described as a "worthy" or "necessary" component for fans, with reviewers from TechRadar Gaming and IGN noting its enriching qualities and the developer's mastery of the soulslike genre. The visuals, atmosphere, and emotional depth are also frequently commended, with Eurogamer Germany specifically mentioning the engaging visuals and music that contribute to a captivating experience. However, several critics pointed out some notable shortcomings in "Lies of P: Overture." While many reviews acknowledge the expansion's strengths, they also mention issues such as pacing, balancing, and narrative depth. For instance, GamingBolt and Critical Hits noted concerns regarding pacing and repetitive areas, while Eurogamer Germany expressed a desire for more depth in character backstories. Some reviews, like those from Loot Level Chill and CGMagazine, mention minor narrative flaws and questionable design decisions that could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, camera issues and unbalanced difficulty were highlighted by critics like TheXboxHub, suggesting that while the expansion is strong, it is not without its imperfections. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Lies of P: Overture" is a very good expansion that successfully builds on the original game, providing fans with engaging content and a satisfying experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameSpot and RPG Site, affirm that it is a must-play for fans of the genre, despite acknowledging some flaws. The expansion is seen as a significant improvement over the base game, with many critics, such as Noisy Pixel and Worth Playing, expressing high expectations for future content from Round8 Studio. This overwhelming positivity suggests that while there are areas for improvement, the expansion is a commendable addition to the franchise that resonates well with its audience.

TL;DR

"Lies of P: Overture" impresses critics with its masterful expansion of the original game’s narrative and gameplay, hailed as a must-play for fans. Strong visuals and emotional depth enhance the experience, but issues like pacing, narrative depth, and camera problems hold it back. Overall, it’s a solid addition that raises expectations for future content while acknowledging some flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

60 reviews found

Game Informer

Jun 8, 2025