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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: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure

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 earns praise for its emotional narrative and rich character development, effectively capturing the essence of teenage girlhood through its dual timeline. However, critics highlight issues with confusing execution, pacing, and unresolved plot points that hinder the overall experience. The game sets a promising stage for future installments but must refine its storytelling to fully engage players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

66%

Mixed (50-79)

31%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the story of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and thematic depth. Reviewers like COGconnected and GamingBolt highlight the emotional investment created through well-developed character relationships and backstories. The dual timeline structure, which juxtaposes the carefree summer of 1995 with the complexities of 2022, is frequently noted as a strong narrative device that adds layers of mystery and nostalgia. Critics like Dot Esports and GamesRadar+ appreciate how the story captures the essence of teenage girlhood, blending supernatural elements with relatable experiences of friendship and personal growth. The emotional core and the exploration of themes such as memory and estrangement resonate with many players, making the story compelling. However, the narrative also faces criticism for its execution and structure. Several reviewers, including CGMagazine and ComicBook, point out that the story can be confusing and lacks resolution, leaving many questions unanswered by the end of Tape 1. The pacing issues and plot holes mentioned by RPG Fan and Gaming Nexus detract from the overall experience, with some critics feeling that the story drags at times and fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion. Furthermore, Multiplayer.it critiques the balance between friendship and horror, suggesting that the latter is overshadowed, which could diminish the impact of the narrative's darker themes. In summary, while Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is praised for its emotional depth and engaging storytelling, it is also critiqued for its confusing narrative structure and unresolved plot points. The consensus among critics is that the game successfully explores significant themes like friendship and memory, but it struggles with pacing and clarity, leaving players eager for a more conclusive follow-up. Critics like MondoXbox and Eurogamer encapsulate this duality well, acknowledging the intriguing premise while also recognizing the narrative's shortcomings. Overall, the game sets a solid foundation for future installments, but it will need to address these issues to fully resonate with its audience.

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 that boosts immersion and personal engagement, allowing players to document their journey and make impactful choices. Critics praise its intuitive dialogue system and interactive elements that enhance replayability. However, it suffers from limited interactivity and formulaic mechanics, with some calling the gameplay too cinematic and lacking innovation. While the narrative experience shines, many feel the gameplay falls short, leaving a desire for deeper engagement and originality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

52%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 has received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its unique camcorder mechanic that encourages exploration and personal engagement. Critics like COGconnected and GamingBolt highlight how this mechanic enhances immersion and allows players to document moments, creating a deeper connection with the narrative and characters. The dialogue system has also been noted for its intuitive design, as mentioned by Eurogamer, which enhances player engagement and allows for meaningful choices that affect character relationships and story outcomes. Reviewers such as TheXboxHub and GAMINGbible appreciate the integration of interactive elements, suggesting that the choices players make significantly impact their experience, thereby enhancing replayability. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay, particularly its limited interactivity and formulaic mechanics. CGMagazine and WellPlayed criticize the gameplay for feeling sparse and uninspired, with CGMagazine specifically noting that the unique filming mechanic feels disconnected from the narrative. Others, like Multiplayer.it and But Why Tho?, express concerns that the gameplay often feels more like a cinematic experience than an engaging game, with some mechanics, such as arbitrary puzzles, disrupting the flow of the experience. Critics like PC Gamer also mention clumsy dialogue mechanics that detract from the overall enjoyment, indicating a lack of innovation in some areas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 offers a unique narrative experience through its camcorder mechanic and meaningful dialogue choices, it struggles with limited interactivity and repetitive elements. Critics like GamingTrend and TechRadar Gaming recognize the potential for emotional engagement and immersion but also caution that the gameplay may not satisfy those looking for a more dynamic gaming experience. The blend of positive and negative feedback suggests that while the game has its strengths, it may leave some players wanting more depth and innovation in its mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 impresses with its stunning 90s-inspired graphics and immersive environments, earning praise for its artistic design and vibrant aesthetics. Critics applaud its nostalgic appeal, but technical flaws like texture pop-ins, awkward animations, and frame drops undermine the experience. While the visuals enhance the emotional depth of the narrative, the game's execution is marred by notable glitches, leaving a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 have garnered significant praise from critics, highlighting the game's artistic approach and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like TheXboxHub and GamingBolt commend the stunning landscapes and effective art direction that capture the essence of the 90s, with vibrant colors and detailed environments enhancing the overall atmosphere. Critics such as Dot Esports and GamesRadar+ emphasize the effective use of textures, light, and color, particularly in nostalgic flashbacks that evoke childhood memories. The game’s ability to create immersive environments, as noted by Guardian and TechRadar Gaming, resonates well with players, effectively transporting them to the intended settings of both the 90s and the present day. However, despite the overall positive reception, several critics have pointed out notable technical shortcomings that detract from the visual experience. Issues such as texture pop-ins, awkward animations, and frame drops are frequently mentioned, with COGconnected and Gaming Nexus highlighting these flaws as detrimental to the overall immersion. Critics like GamingTrend and Multiplayer.it also note graphical glitches like lag and clipping, which can disrupt the gameplay experience. While the artistic design has been praised, the technical execution has left some critics, such as WellPlayed, feeling that the visuals lack coherence and depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 successfully captures a nostalgic aesthetic and effectively creates immersive environments, though it is marred by technical issues. Reviewers like MondoXbox appreciate the artistic approach over realism, while others, such as RPG Fan and PlayStation Universe, highlight the warm color palette that enhances storytelling. Despite the graphical shortcomings, the game's visual design is generally seen as a strong point, contributing positively to the emotional and atmospheric depth of the narrative, as noted by critics like But Why Tho? and Try Hard Guides.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 receives praise for its nostalgic 80s-90s rock soundtrack and immersive sound design, enhancing the game's emotional depth. However, critics flag issues like overlapping dialogue and audio glitches that undermine the experience, leaving room for improvement in overall audio quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

74%

Mixed (50-79)

26%

Negative (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 garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting the game's ability to evoke nostalgia and enhance its narrative. Reviewers like MondoXbox and TheXboxHub commend the rich selection of 80s-90s rock music and the atmospheric soundtrack, which features contemporary female-led groups, contributing to an authentic setting. Critics from CGMagazine and GamingTrend note that the soundtrack effectively captures the intended tone and emotional impact, further enhancing the game's overall experience. The attention to detail in sound effects, as highlighted by GAMINGbible and GamesRadar+, adds to the immersive quality, making players feel more connected to the game's world. However, despite the overall positive reception, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design. Gaming Nexus and WellPlayed mentioned issues such as overlapping dialogue and poor mixing, which detract from the immersive experience. RPG Fan echoed these sentiments, indicating that audio glitches during cutscenes hinder the overall enjoyment. Additionally, while some critics like GamingBolt found the soundtrack to be good, they noted that it didn’t initially stand out, suggesting a lack of memorable moments in the music. This inconsistency in audio quality and execution has left some critics feeling that the sound design could have been more polished. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 features a commendable soundtrack that enhances the game's nostalgic atmosphere and emotional depth, it is marred by technical issues in sound design that prevent it from achieving its full potential. Critics like Dot Esports and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the evocative nature of the original soundtrack, yet the presence of audio glitches and mixing problems, as noted by IGN Benelux and WellPlayed, create a divide in the overall experience. Thus, while the music and sound design contribute positively to the game's ambiance, they also present areas for improvement that could elevate the experience for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 features strong voice acting that enhances emotional immersion and character depth, earning praise for relatable performances, especially from Natalie Liconti. However, critics note issues with unnatural dialogue, inconsistent voice quality, and technical flaws like lip-syncing errors and abrupt cuts, suggesting that while the voice work elevates the game's storytelling, improvements are needed for a more seamless experience in future versions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (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 among critics, with many highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing the immersive experience of the game. Reviewers like TheXboxHub and COGconnected commend the voice performances for their ability to draw players into the characters' emotions and interactions, contributing significantly to the believability and depth of the characters. CGMagazine and PlayStation Universe echo this sentiment, noting that the actors effectively portray the teenage experience, making the characters feel relatable and authentic. Additionally, Checkpoint Gaming emphasizes standout performances, particularly that of Natalie Liconti, which further underscores the strength of the voice acting in creating impactful character depth. However, the reviews also reveal several criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the dialogue. Critics such as CGMagazine and GamingBolt point out that while the voice acting is strong, some dialogue can sound unnatural or awkward, which detracts from the overall immersion. Furthermore, Gaming Nexus raises concerns about inconsistencies in voice acting quality, including issues with lip-syncing and overlapping dialogue that disrupt the gaming experience. IGN Benelux also highlights problems with abrupt dialogue cuts, indicating that these technical flaws can hinder the player's connection to the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is largely effective and contributes positively to the game's emotional landscape, it is marred by notable inconsistencies and technical issues. Reviewers like TechRadar Gaming and Loot Level Chill praise the distinct performances and natural dialogue, yet the recurring mentions of awkwardness and unnatural speech—particularly from critics such as XboxEra and WellPlayed—indicate that there is room for improvement. Thus, while the voice acting elevates the game's storytelling, the execution of dialogue and technical aspects remains a point of contention that could benefit from refinement in future installments.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" struggles with significant technical issues, especially on PS5, where frame drops, crashes, and animation glitches frustrate players. Though some critics note positive elements like scene transitions, they are overshadowed by stability problems. On PC, opinions vary; while some report serious issues like poor lip sync and crashes, others find the game relatively stable. Overall, it features moments of potential but is hampered by inconsistent performance across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

31%

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

The technical performance of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" has received a mixed reception across different platforms, particularly on the PS5 and PC. On the PS5, several critics noted some positive aspects, such as CGMagazine and COGconnected, who mentioned that while there are minor technical issues like texture pop-ins and audio balancing problems, these do not significantly detract from the overall experience. Eurogamer highlighted impressive scene transitions, indicating that some elements of the game perform well, even if they are overshadowed by other concerns. This suggests that there are moments of technical success that can enhance the gameplay experience for players. However, the negatives on the PS5 were more pronounced, with several critics pointing out significant technical issues. GamingBolt and Gaming Nexus reported frame drops, crashes, and animation problems that severely impacted enjoyment, while GamingTrend noted graphical lag and clipping issues. RPG Fan echoed these sentiments, mentioning that bugs and pacing problems significantly affected the overall experience. This collection of critiques paints a picture of a game that struggles with stability and performance on the PS5, which could frustrate players expecting a smoother experience. On the PC front, the opinions were more varied. Checkpoint Gaming reported serious issues such as poor lip sync and crashes, which hinder immersion, while IGN Benelux mentioned audio issues and lip-sync problems that disrupted the experience. However, Gameliner and TechRadar Gaming noted only minor technical issues that did not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment, with XboxEra stating that the game performed well overall, despite a minor decision acknowledgment issue. This divergence suggests that while some players may experience significant technical hurdles on PC, others may find the game relatively stable. Overall, the consensus across platforms indicates that while "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" has moments of technical achievement, it is marred by a range of issues that detract from the player experience, particularly on the PS5.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" offers enticing replay value through its engaging narrative, character choices, and collectibles, thanks to cliffhangers and interactive mechanics. However, critics warn that unresolved storylines and pacing issues may leave players unsatisfied, leading to reluctance in replaying until the sequel arrives. The consensus is mixed—while some are eager to explore different outcomes, many fear the game’s incomplete narrative could dampen immediate engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

29%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of "Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1" highlight several positive aspects that could entice players to revisit the game. Critics like TheXboxHub and GamingTrend note that the game’s narrative structure and character relationships encourage players to return for future installments, particularly due to the cliffhanger ending and the potential for different outcomes based on player choices. Additionally, Dot Esports and GamesRadar+ emphasize the appeal of collectible elements and friendship systems, which can motivate players to explore the game further and uncover all its secrets. The camcorder mechanic mentioned by IGN Benelux also adds a layer of interactivity, allowing players to document their experiences, which can enhance replayability. However, several critics express concerns that may limit the game's immediate replay value. CGMagazine and GamingBolt highlight the unresolved narrative and pacing issues that could deter players from diving back into the game until the sequel is released. The episodic nature of the story, as pointed out by RPG Fan and PlayStation Universe, suggests that many players might feel unsatisfied with Tape 1 alone, leading to a reluctance to replay it without the context of a complete narrative. Furthermore, Gaming Nexus notes that while choices exist, the lack of payoff in Tape 1 may diminish the incentive to replay the game right away. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who see potential for replayability through narrative choices and collectibles, and those who feel that the game's unresolved story and pacing issues could hinder immediate engagement. While some reviewers, like Gameliner and XboxEra, express enthusiasm for returning to the game to explore different relationship dynamics, others caution that the game’s setup nature may leave players feeling frustrated and waiting for the next installment. This duality reflects a broader sentiment that while there are encouraging elements for replay value, significant narrative gaps may deter players from fully engaging with the game until the story is resolved in future tapes.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

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OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

71%

Mixed (50-79)

29%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative and artistic visuals. Reviewers like MondoXbox and TheXboxHub highlight the game's compelling storytelling and emotional depth, suggesting that it successfully immerses players in its world. The visuals receive consistent acclaim, with several critics, including GameSpew and Dot Esports, noting the impressive audiovisual elements that enhance the gaming experience. Additionally, many reviewers, such as GamingTrend and Guardian, appreciate the character development and rich dynamics, indicating that the game resonates with themes of nostalgia and girlhood. However, the game is not without its criticisms, as several reviewers point out significant flaws that detract from the overall experience. CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it express disappointment regarding the narrative structure and execution, arguing that the game fails to deliver a compelling storyline, while others like Gaming Nexus and WellPlayed mention technical issues and pacing problems that hinder the gameplay. Critics such as ComicBook and But Why Tho? also note a lack of narrative resolution, suggesting that many questions remain unanswered, which may leave players feeling unsatisfied with the overall experience. Despite the mixed reviews, the consensus among critics leans towards optimism for the future of the series. Many, including GAMINGbible and TechRadar Gaming, view Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 as a promising entry that lays a solid foundation for future installments. While some reviewers like GamingBolt and PC Gamer caution that the game is not a must-play immediately due to its flaws, the overall sentiment is that the engaging story and emotional depth provide a compelling experience that will likely resonate with fans of narrative-driven games. The eagerness for a sequel is a recurring theme, indicating that, despite its shortcomings, the game has captured the interest and imagination of its audience.

TL;DR

Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Tape 1 garners mostly positive reviews for its engaging storytelling and stunning visuals, immersing players in themes of nostalgia and girlhood. Critics praise character development, but significant flaws like poor narrative execution, technical issues, and unresolved plot points hold it back. Despite these drawbacks, the consensus is optimistic, seeing potential for future installments. While not an immediate must-play, the game intrigues narrative-driven fans and sets the stage for what’s next.

MONSTER

Reviews

45 reviews found

100

KeenGamer

Mar 3, 2025