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Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1
Item: Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

Genres

AvailableFeb 18, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperDONTNOD Entertainment

Overview

The magical summer of 1995 is one of self-discovery and forging unbreakable bonds for high school friends Swann, Nora, Autumn, and Kat. 27 years of no contact later, fate reunites them to confront the long-buried secret that made them promise to never speak again. Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a brand-new story-driven journey through time from the creative minds behind Life is Strange.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 delivers a heartfelt narrative exploring friendship and nostalgia across dual timelines, praised for its character depth and emotional relatability. However, critics widely point out significant flaws, including poor pacing, confusing structure, and unresolved plot points, leading to a sense of incompleteness. While the story shows promise, it struggles with clarity, leaving many eager for future installments to tie up loose ends.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 has garnered praise for its engaging narrative and character development. Many critics, including PC Gamer and GamingTrend, highlight the compelling themes of friendship, nostalgia, and personal growth woven throughout the dual timelines of 1995 and 2022. Critics such as GameSpot and Combo Infinito commend the emotional depth and relatability of the characters, noting that the narrative effectively captures the essence of adolescence and the complexities of relationships. Furthermore, the supernatural elements hinted at in the story, as noted by IGN Adria and Digital Spy, add an intriguing layer to the overall experience, enhancing the mystery that surrounds the characters' pasts. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant flaws in the storytelling. Critics like WellPlayed and Metro GameCentral express frustration over the lack of depth and clarity, suggesting that the narrative often feels hollow and poorly paced. RPG Fan and CGMagazine echo these sentiments, mentioning plot holes and a confusing structure that detracts from emotional engagement. Additionally, many critics, including Push Square and GameSpew, note that the episodic nature of the game leaves numerous questions unanswered, which can lead to a sense of incompleteness and dissatisfaction with the current installment. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 presents a promising and heartfelt narrative, it struggles with pacing, clarity, and resolution. Critics such as BaziCenter and Gaming Nexus recognize the potential of the story and its characters but also emphasize the need for a more cohesive and engaging narrative flow. The anticipation for future installments is palpable, as many reviewers, including Game8 and Guardian, express hope that the unresolved elements will be addressed, ultimately enhancing the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" impresses with its unique camcorder mechanic and impactful dialogue system, enhancing immersion and character relationships. However, critics widely condemn its gameplay as formulaic and overly simplistic, lacking depth and meaningful interaction. While narrative-driven players may find some appeal, the game ultimately disappoints in delivering an engaging experience, feeling more like a visual novel than an adventure game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" has garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its unique camcorder mechanic that allows players to document their surroundings and create a personal narrative. Critics like GameSpot and Gaming Nexus highlight how this mechanic enhances player engagement and artistic expression, allowing for a more immersive experience. Additionally, the dialogue system is noted for its ability to impact character relationships, as mentioned by GamingBolt and Loot Level Chill, which adds depth to the storytelling and encourages emotional investment in the characters. The exploration aspect of the game, combined with decision-making elements, has also been recognized as a positive feature, with critics like COGconnected and Eurogamer appreciating how it fosters a sense of immersion. However, the gameplay has received significant criticism for its limitations and lack of depth. Many reviewers, including CGMagazine and WellPlayed, describe the gameplay as formulaic and uninspired, primarily consisting of dialogue choices with minimal interactivity. Critics like IGN Adria and BaziCenter point out that the camcorder mechanic, while unique, often feels disconnected from the narrative and does not enhance the overall experience. The gameplay is frequently described as sparse and overly simplistic, with minimal puzzles and interactions that can lead to a tedious experience, as noted by Push Square and Meristation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the game has some interesting concepts, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling and engaging gameplay experience. In summary, the overall sentiment regarding the gameplay of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" leans towards disappointment, with many critics expressing that the game lacks the necessary depth and innovation to fully engage players. While the camcorder mechanic and dialogue choices offer some engaging elements, as highlighted by critics like Gameblog.fr and GamingTrend, the repetitive and simplistic nature of the gameplay detracts from the overall experience. The game is often compared to visual novels rather than traditional adventure games, leading to a perception that it prioritizes narrative over interactive gameplay. As a result, many reviewers suggest that the game may appeal more to those seeking a narrative-driven experience rather than those looking for robust gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 nails a nostalgic 90s vibe with stunning visuals and vibrant colors, praised by critics for its immersive design. However, technical flaws like frame rate drops and graphical glitches hinder the experience, preventing the game from reaching its full potential. Overall, it’s a mixed bag of artistic brilliance and frustrating issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is largely positive, with many critics praising the game's nostalgic aesthetic that effectively evokes the 1990s. Reviewers like Digital Spy and Impulsegamer highlight the game's ability to capture the essence of the era through detailed environments and authentic items. Critics such as TheXboxHub and XboxAddict commend the stunning landscapes and picturesque settings, particularly in the fictional town of Velvet Cove, which are rendered beautifully and enhance the overall atmosphere. The use of Unreal Engine 5 is frequently noted, with many reviewers, including Xbox Tavern and Combo Infinito, appreciating the vibrant colors and artistic visuals that contribute to the game's immersive experience. However, several critics point out technical shortcomings that detract from the visual experience. Issues such as texture pop-ins, frame rate drops, and awkward character animations are mentioned by multiple reviewers, including COGconnected and Gaming Nexus. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Multiplayer.it also note graphical glitches like clipping and delayed textures, which disrupt immersion and can hinder the overall enjoyment of the game. While the artistic vision is commendable, some reviewers, such as IGN Adria and Vgames, express disappointment in the lack of noticeable advancements in visual fidelity compared to previous titles from the studio. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 successfully captures a nostalgic 90s aesthetic through its artistic design and vibrant visuals, enhancing the storytelling and emotional engagement. However, the game is marred by technical issues that prevent it from achieving its full potential. Critics like Push Square and GameSpot encapsulate this sentiment, praising the game's stunning visuals while acknowledging the presence of graphical bugs that can detract from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the game's artistic direction and nostalgic appeal resonate strongly with many players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 impresses critics with its nostalgic soundtrack and atmospheric sound design, effectively enhancing gameplay and emotional depth. While praised for its rich selection of 80s-90s rock and contributions from female-led groups, some reviewers note issues like mismatched music for the 1995 setting, poor mixing, and clunky voice acting that detract from immersion. Overall, the music is a standout element, resonating with players despite some technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 have received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend the game's ability to evoke nostalgia and enhance the overall atmosphere. Reviewers like Digital Spy and Xbox Tavern highlight the well-curated background music that complements the gameplay, while the soundtrack's rich selection of 80s-90s rock music, as noted by MondoXbox, effectively immerses players in the game's setting. Critics such as TheXboxHub and GameSpot appreciate the atmospheric quality of the music, which not only enhances the narrative but also features contributions from contemporary female-led groups, adding authenticity to the experience. The emotional depth of the soundtrack, praised by GamingTrend and Dot Esports, further elevates the game's impact, making the music a standout element that resonates with players. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics point out issues that detract from the overall experience. For instance, Gaming Nexus and IGN Adria mention that while the soundtrack is praised, it often feels out of place for the 1995 setting, which can disrupt immersion. Additionally, some reviewers, including WellPlayed and IGN Benelux, note technical flaws such as poor mixing and overlapping dialogue that hinder the audio experience. Critics like Metro GameCentral also highlight clunky voice acting that detracts from the narrative's authenticity, suggesting that while the music is a strong point, the sound design could benefit from more polish. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 excels in its musical selection and atmospheric sound design, effectively enhancing the nostalgic feel and emotional depth of the game. While there are notable criticisms regarding the appropriateness of the soundtrack for the game's setting and some technical issues, the majority of reviewers agree that the music significantly contributes to the overall experience. Critics such as Gameblog.fr and PC Gamer encapsulate this sentiment, emphasizing the soundtrack's ability to resonate with the themes of nostalgia and girlhood, ultimately making it a memorable aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 impresses with strong performances that enhance player immersion and character relatability, particularly praised by outlets like TheXboxHub and BaziCenter. However, criticisms arise around awkward dialogue, poor lip-syncing, and inconsistent performance quality, undermining the overall experience. While the voice acting shows potential, significant technical issues highlight the need for improvement in future installments.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the strong performances that effectively immerse players in the characters' experiences. Reviewers from outlets such as TheXboxHub and BaziCenter praised the execution of the voice acting, noting that it draws players into the emotional dynamics of the characters. Critics like CGMagazine and PlayStation Universe echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the ability of the voice actors to portray the teenage experience authentically, contributing to character relatability. Additionally, specific performances, such as those of Nora and Autumn, were singled out for their strength, enhancing the overall narrative experience, as noted by Xbox Tavern. However, despite the praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that detract from its overall effectiveness. Several reviewers, including Digital Spy and COGconnected, pointed out instances of awkward dialogue that can disrupt immersion and authenticity. Issues with lip-syncing and synchronization were also highlighted by critics like Wccftech and IGN Benelux, indicating that the visual representation of the characters sometimes fails to match the audio, which can negatively impact the emotional delivery. Furthermore, some critics, such as Metro GameCentral and Gaming Nexus, mentioned a lack of consistency in performance quality, with certain characters feeling more compelling than others, and instances of clichéd dialogue that could undermine the narrative's depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is generally strong and contributes positively to player immersion, it is marred by inconsistencies and technical issues that can detract from the experience. The performances are often described as relatable and engaging, yet the presence of awkward lines and synchronization problems creates a mixed reception. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Loot Level Chill highlight the potential of the voice acting to enhance storytelling, but the recurring issues noted by multiple reviewers suggest that there is room for improvement in future installments or updates to the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" garners mixed reviews for its technical performance. Xbox Series X enjoys praise for stability, while PS5 and PC versions face criticism for frame rate drops, texture issues, and bugs that mar the experience. Despite its visual and narrative strengths, players may encounter significant performance challenges. Future patches are expected to improve these issues, but the game currently has room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The technical performance of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" has been met with a mix of praise and criticism across different gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, critics like Malditos Nerds commend the game for its "exquisite technical performance," highlighting its overall stability and quality. Xbox Tavern also notes that while the game performs well, it has minor texture loading issues that can disrupt immersion, but these do not overshadow the positive aspects. On the PlayStation 5, several reviewers, including Eurogamer and Meristation, mention impressive technical performance, particularly in scene transitions, and acknowledge that the game runs well overall, despite some minor issues. On PC, XboxEra reports a solid performance with no major bugs, while Game8 and Gameliner note that occasional frame drops and minor graphical glitches do not significantly detract from the experience. However, the technical performance on both the PlayStation 5 and PC has raised concerns among critics. For the PS5, BaziCenter and GamingBolt point out significant issues such as frame rate drops and texture pop-ins that disrupt gameplay. Critics like RPG Fan and Gaming Nexus highlight that the game is plagued by various technical issues, including bugs and crashes, which severely impact the overall enjoyment. On PC, Checkpoint Gaming and Combo Infinito express frustration with performance issues, including inconsistent frame rates and crashes, indicating that these problems hinder immersion and enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a split sentiment regarding the technical performance of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1." While platforms like Xbox Series X receive generally favorable reviews for their stability, the PS5 and PC versions face a more critical reception due to a range of technical issues that detract from the experience. Despite the game's visual appeal and narrative strengths, the prevalence of bugs and performance inconsistencies across platforms suggests that players may encounter challenges that could affect their overall enjoyment. Future patches are anticipated to address some of these concerns, as noted by critics like Gameblog.fr and Vgames, but the current technical state leaves room for improvement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" garners strong praise for its engaging narrative and decision-making mechanics, enticing players to explore different choices and character arcs. Critics appreciate the cliffhanger ending and unresolved plot points that heighten anticipation for future installments. However, concerns arise over its episodic format, with some reviewers suggesting that lack of closure might deter immediate replay. While the game shows promise for replayability, the incomplete narrative leaves some critics hesitant about diving back in right away.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's engaging narrative and decision-making mechanics as key factors that enhance replayability. Reviewers like Malditos Nerds and XboxAddict noted that the game encourages players to explore different choices that affect dialogue and character arcs, fostering a desire to revisit the experience. Additionally, the cliffhanger ending mentioned by TheXboxHub and the unresolved plot points pointed out by Gamesurf and GamingBolt create anticipation for future installments, further motivating players to replay the game. Critics such as Wccftech and Adventure Gamers also emphasized the optional content and character dynamics that contribute to a rich, replayable experience. However, there are notable concerns regarding the game's replay value, particularly stemming from its episodic format and unresolved narrative threads. Critics like CGMagazine and Gaming Nexus expressed that the lack of closure in Tape 1 may deter players from immediately replaying the game, as they might prefer to wait for the complete narrative before diving back in. Others, like PlayStation Universe and Push Square, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the first part serves primarily as setup, which may limit its immediate appeal for replaying. Furthermore, some reviewers, including Vgames and Checkpoint Gaming, pointed out that while the game offers exploration and character-driven narratives, the basic gameplay mechanics might not provide enough incentive for multiple playthroughs. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" possesses a solid foundation for replay value, primarily driven by its engaging story and decision-making elements. While many reviewers, such as Game8 and GamesRadar+, highlighted the potential for varied experiences through choices and character relationships, others pointed out the limitations posed by the episodic structure and unresolved narrative. Ultimately, while there is enthusiasm for the replayability offered by the game, the uncertainty surrounding its narrative completion leaves some critics cautious about the immediate replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" is a mix of admiration and disappointment, reflecting both its strengths and weaknesses. Many critics highlight the game's engaging storytelling and rich character development, with several reviewers, such as GameSpot and Areajugones, praising it as one of Don't Nod's best titles. The nostalgic elements and emotional depth resonate well with players, making it a captivating narrative adventure. Critics like Wccftech and TechRadar Gaming commend the game's immersive experience, strong audio-visual elements, and the ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia, indicating that it successfully captures the essence of teenage life and emotional exploration. However, the game is not without its flaws. Many reviewers, including WellPlayed and Multiplayer.it, express disappointment regarding the lack of emotional depth and innovation compared to Don't Nod's previous titles. Technical issues and pacing problems are frequently mentioned, with critics like Gaming Nexus and CGMagazine noting that these shortcomings detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as ComicBook and But Why Tho?, point out that the narrative lacks resolution, leaving players with unanswered questions and a sense of incompleteness. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel that while the game has potential, it ultimately falls short in execution. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" is a promising yet flawed entry in the narrative adventure genre. While many appreciate its storytelling and character dynamics, the technical issues and pacing hinder its overall impact. Critics like Digital Spy and GamingTrend highlight the game's potential for future installments, suggesting that despite its shortcomings, players are eager to see how the story unfolds. Overall, it appears that while "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage" may not be a must-play immediately, it offers enough intrigue and emotional resonance to warrant attention, especially for fans of Don't Nod's previous work.

TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" impresses with its storytelling and character depth, earning praise from critics like GameSpot and Areajugones. However, it suffers from technical issues, pacing problems, and an incomplete narrative, leading to mixed reviews. While it captivates with nostalgia and emotional exploration, many feel it falls short of Don't Nod's previous successes. Promising but flawed, it may appeal to dedicated fans, but isn’t an immediate must-play.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

100

KeenGamer

Mar 3, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage – Tape 1 is described as a beautifully crafted emotional journey that blends storytelling, exploration, and music, leaving players eager for the sequel.

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GameBlast

PlayStation 5

Apr 8, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is praised for its storytelling, character development, and thematic depth, despite some technical flaws. It sets a strong foundation for future installments.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Mar 19, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is a captivating and emotional experience that resonates deeply, potentially becoming a favorite in the genre.

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Loot Level Chill

Feb 18, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom and Rage Tape 1 is praised as a wonderful beginning and a perfect return to form for the developers, with engaging storytelling and character development.

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GameSpot

PlayStation 5

Feb 26, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is positioned as one of Don't Nod's best titles, praised for its storytelling, character depth, and artistic presentation, with anticipation for the second half of the game.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Feb 19, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is a captivating narrative adventure that successfully combines engaging storytelling, meaningful gameplay, and impressive visuals, leaving players eager for more.

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Dot Esports

Feb 18, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is a nostalgic and immersive experience that successfully combines a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and stunning audiovisual elements, despite its slow pacing.

TechRadar Gaming

Feb 18, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is a compelling narrative adventure that combines rich storytelling, immersive gameplay, and stunning visuals, leaving players eager for the next installment.

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GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Feb 19, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is described as a modern classic that revitalizes the episodic adventure genre with its engaging story, interactive gameplay, and nostalgic elements, earning a high score.

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GamesRadar+

Feb 18, 2025

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

Lost Records: Bloom and Rage – Tape 1 is a captivating return to form for Don’t Nod, blending heartfelt storytelling with engaging gameplay and rich visuals. It sets high expectations for the sequel.

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