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Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
Item: Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Comedy, RPG, Single Player

AvailableOct 26, 2021

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

DeveloperEidos Montreal

Overview

Fire up a wild ride across the cosmos with a fresh take on Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. In this action-adventure game, you are Star-Lord leading the unpredictable Guardians from one explosion of chaos to the next. You got this. Probably.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is praised for its engaging narrative, character depth, and emotional resonance, balancing humor and tragedy effectively. Critics laud the original story and character dynamics, though some mention issues with linearity and pacing. Despite minor flaws, it’s celebrated as one of the year's standout narratives, capturing the essence of the Guardians while appealing to both fans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its engaging narrative, character development, and emotional depth. Many reviewers, such as Gaming Nexus and Hardcore Gamer, highlight the blend of humor and tragedy that elevates the storytelling, making it resonate with players. The game is noted for its original plot that diverges from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, allowing for fresh interpretations of beloved characters. Critics like Push Square and Gamer.no commend the engaging and entertaining plot, which appeals to both fans and newcomers to the franchise. The character dynamics and interactions are frequently cited as standout elements, with several reviews emphasizing the well-written dialogue and the emotional arcs of the Guardians, particularly in relation to themes of family and loss. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics express concerns regarding the linearity and pacing of the story. For instance, PC Invasion mentions that the narrative can drag at times, feeling padded to extend the runtime, while MGG points out the limitations in exploration due to its chapter-based structure. Additionally, Attack of the Fanboy notes that while the team dynamics are strong, the main plot lacks a certain level of intrigue. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and MGG Spain also mention that while the dialogue choices enhance player investment, they often lack significant impact on the overall narrative, which may leave some players wanting more agency in their decision-making. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy offers a compelling and well-crafted narrative that successfully captures the essence of the characters and their relationships. The majority of reviewers, including RPG Fan and GameSpot, emphasize the emotional core of the story, which explores relatable themes through a cosmic backdrop. While some critiques regarding pacing and linearity exist, they do not overshadow the game's strengths. The positive sentiment is reinforced by the numerous mentions of the game's humor, character depth, and engaging plot twists, suggesting that it stands out as one of the stronger narratives in gaming this year.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy features engaging combat and enjoyable character interactions, praised for teamwork and strategy. However, critics slam the gameplay for being tedious, repetitive, and lacking depth, with glitchy mechanics and linear missions. The game prioritizes narrative over innovative mechanics, leading to a mixed reception where fun elements are overshadowed by significant flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics, such as IGN and God is a Geek, highlight the engaging nature of the combat system, which allows players to control Star-Lord while commanding other Guardians. This teamwork aspect adds a layer of strategy, making encounters feel dynamic and rewarding as players unlock new abilities. The exploration and character interactions are also noted as enjoyable, with GamePro Germany mentioning that the exploration phases and character interactions keep the experience entertaining. Critics like But Why Tho? and We Got This Covered appreciate the fluid controls and the balance of challenge, which contribute to a generally enjoyable gameplay experience. However, the negatives surrounding the gameplay are significant and frequently mentioned. Several reviewers, including Launcher from The Washington Post and NME, criticize the combat for feeling tedious, soft, and lacking impact. The repetitive nature of enemy encounters and the linear structure of the gameplay are highlighted by critics such as SpazioGames and BaziCenter, who argue that the game lacks real freedom and variety in missions. Moreover, issues like glitchy combat mechanics and a chaotic control system are pointed out by VG247 and ZTGD, leading to a sense of frustration for players seeking a more refined experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy offers an entertaining and engaging gameplay experience, it is marred by repetitiveness and a lack of depth. Many reviewers, including LevelUp and GameCritics, note that while the combat and exploration elements can be enjoyable, they often feel derivative and simplistic. The game appears to prioritize narrative and character interactions over innovative gameplay mechanics, resulting in a mixed reception where the fun of teamwork and character abilities is overshadowed by the shortcomings in combat and mission design.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy shines with vibrant visuals and detailed character models, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for its artistic direction and immersive environments. However, it suffers from technical issues, including inconsistent animations and performance flaws, particularly on the Switch Cloud Version. Critics appreciate its potential but highlight necessary improvements, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy have garnered a largely positive reception, particularly on next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics have praised the game for its vibrant and colorful environments, with many noting the detailed character models that reflect a high level of craftsmanship. For instance, PlayStation Universe and Gaming Nexus highlighted the impressive character animations and the game's ability to create an immersive experience through its stunning visuals. The artistic direction has been lauded for capturing the essence of the Guardians, with Attack of the Fanboy and PlaySense emphasizing how the visuals complement the narrative and action. Overall, the game is described as visually striking, with critics like Digital Chumps and Stevivor appreciating the distinct alien worlds and kaleidoscopic colors that enhance exploration. However, the game is not without its flaws, as several critics pointed out various technical issues that detract from the overall visual experience. For instance, NintendoWorldReport and GamingTrend noted that the Switch Cloud Version suffers from significant performance problems, including pop-in and low-quality models. On the PS5 and Xbox Series X, while the graphics are generally praised, issues such as inconsistent facial animations and minor visual glitches were mentioned by critics like Vandal and Jeuxvideo.com. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Shacknews, described character models as awkward and displeasing, which undermines the overall visual appeal. These inconsistencies suggest that while the game has moments of brilliance, it is marred by technical shortcomings that need addressing. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy offers a visually appealing experience that is enhanced by its artistic direction and vibrant environments. However, the presence of technical issues, particularly in character animations and performance, has led to a mixed reception in terms of visual fidelity. Critics like GameMAG and PC Gamer acknowledge the game's potential and its ability to deliver stunning visuals, yet they also emphasize the need for improvements in certain areas. Thus, while the game is celebrated for its artistic achievements, the technical flaws highlight a disparity that could impact player experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy shines with an electrifying soundtrack of iconic 80s hits and stellar voice acting, enhancing gameplay and humor. While critics laud the music's impact, they note missed opportunities for better integration, with some songs cut off too soon and original compositions falling flat. Despite these flaws, the overall sound design significantly enriches the game's charm and appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound 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 music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's impressive and well-curated soundtrack. Many reviewers, such as LevelUp and IGN Italia, praised the inclusion of iconic 80s songs, which significantly enhance the gameplay experience and contribute to the game's overall atmosphere. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Gaming Nexus noted that the soundtrack not only energizes combat sequences but also adds a layer of humor to the narrative. The voice acting has also been commended, with Forbes and Impulsegamer emphasizing the quality of performances, particularly for characters like Rocket and Drax, which further enrich the gaming experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the implementation of the music within the gameplay. Dexerto and Gamer.nl mentioned that the soundtrack, while impressive, often feels under-utilized, with missed opportunities for better integration into the game. The premature cut-offs of songs during gameplay, as highlighted by Gamer.nl, can lead to anticlimactic moments that detract from the overall impact. Additionally, some critics like The Loadout and PCGamesN expressed concerns about the original compositions lacking the same energy as the licensed tracks, indicating that the music could have been more effectively utilized during key moments. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy features a standout sound design and a memorable soundtrack that elevates the gaming experience. While there are criticisms regarding the integration and use of music during gameplay, the majority of reviewers agree that the combination of licensed 80s hits and quality voice acting creates an engaging atmosphere. Critics such as GamePro Germany and PlaySense encapsulated this sentiment, noting that the music selection is a highlight that enhances enjoyment, despite some implementation flaws. Overall, the sound design and music contribute significantly to the charm and appeal of the game, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy features widely praised voice acting that enhances character development and storytelling, with standout performances and engaging dialogue. Critics commend the humor and chemistry, making the experience immersive. However, some note inconsistencies, particularly with Star-Lord's portrayal, suggesting mixed quality among characters. Overall, voice acting is a key strength of the game, contributing to its emotional impact and enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has been widely praised by critics, with many highlighting the strong performances that effectively bring the characters to life. Reviewers like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the exceptional quality of the voice work, noting that it significantly contributes to character development and the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics such as VG247 and VideoGamer also commend the engaging dialogue and charismatic portrayals, which enhance the emotional impact of the story. Furthermore, the humor and chemistry among the characters, as noted by PlaySense and Game Informer, add depth to the interactions, making the experience more immersive and enjoyable for players. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out inconsistencies in the voice acting quality. For instance, Launcher from The Washington Post mentions that certain portrayals, particularly Star-Lord's, come off as caricatures, potentially detracting from immersion. Destructoid echoes this sentiment, describing some characters as merely "fine," while others, like Rocket, are noted to be irritating by Metro GameCentral. Additionally, PC Invasion criticizes Star-Lord's goofy voice and jarring Canadian accent, which contrasts with the character's Missouri roots. These mixed reviews suggest that while many performances shine, there are notable exceptions that may affect the overall experience for some players. The consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is predominantly strong, with a majority praising the cast's ability to capture the essence of the characters. Critics like Easy Allies and AusGamers highlight the brilliance of the performances, while others, such as Gaming Nexus and RPG Site, appreciate the relatable and engaging character portrayals. Although there are some criticisms regarding specific characters and the occasional lack of chemistry, the overwhelming sentiment remains positive. Overall, the voice acting is recognized as a key strength of the game, contributing significantly to its narrative depth and emotional resonance, making it a standout feature for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has mixed technical performance across platforms. PS5 and Xbox Series X show solid performance and visuals but are plagued by bugs and glitches. The Nintendo Switch's cloud version is severely hindered by input lag and stuttering, while the PC version suffers from long loading times and crashes. Overall, despite some praise for its artistic style, significant technical issues across all platforms prevent it from delivering a consistently enjoyable experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

The technical performance of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has received a mixed response across various gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, many critics noted that the game runs smoothly, with some praising its impressive artistic style and stable performance at 60fps. Critics from We Got This Covered and Eurogamer Italy highlighted the overall smoothness and visual quality, contributing to an immersive experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Meristation and PlaySense, reported only minor bugs, indicating a generally solid technical performance. On Xbox Series X, the consensus is similarly positive, with critics like Windows Central and Generación Xbox mentioning that the game runs smoothly with minimal errors and solid frame rates. On PC, while there are some minor frame rate drops at lower settings, MGG noted that the game performs well overall, suggesting that it is capable of delivering an enjoyable experience. However, the negatives for each platform are significant and cannot be overlooked. On PS5, numerous critics, including NME and Game Revolution, pointed out frequent bugs and glitches that disrupt gameplay, particularly during key moments. Digital Trends and Push Square echoed this sentiment, noting stability issues at launch. On the Nintendo Switch, the cloud version suffers from severe technical problems, including input lag and stuttering, as highlighted by Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport, making it a frustrating experience. The PC version also faced criticism, with Screen Rant and PC Gamer reporting long loading screens, crashes, and freezes, which can severely impact the overall experience. Xbox Series X users also reported occasional glitches and performance drops, as noted by GameOver.gr and TheXboxHub, indicating that even the more stable platform has its share of issues. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has the potential for a great experience, technical performance issues mar that potential across all platforms. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally seen as the most stable, but they still suffer from bugs and glitches that detract from the enjoyment, as noted by critics like IGN and Hardcore Gamer. The Nintendo Switch's cloud version is largely criticized for its severe technical shortcomings, while the PC version struggles with loading times and crashes. As a result, despite some positive feedback regarding visuals and gameplay, the overwhelming sentiment points to a need for significant improvements in technical performance across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy has a rich narrative and offers choices that can change outcomes, plus a New Game Plus mode for those who want to explore different paths. However, critics argue that the choices lack significant impact, and the linear gameplay and repetitiveness dampen its replay value. Ultimately, while some elements promote multiple playthroughs, many reviewers feel the game falls short in depth and engagement for repeated experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the replay value of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, several critics highlighted positive aspects that contribute to its potential for multiple playthroughs. Notably, the game features a rich narrative experience with branching dialogue choices that can alter specific outcomes, as pointed out by critics like PlayStation Universe and GRYOnline.pl. The inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, as mentioned by Windows Central and Comicbook.com, allows players to retain their progress and explore different paths, providing an incentive for those who enjoy narrative depth. Collectibles and character customization options also add layers of engagement, encouraging completionists to revisit the game, as noted by Hey Poor Player and MGG. However, many reviewers expressed significant concerns regarding the game's overall replay value. Critics such as Destructoid and Forbes emphasized that the choices available do not meaningfully impact the overarching narrative, resulting in a lack of compelling reasons to replay the game. The linear structure, as noted by Launcher and Vandal, limits exploration and the potential for varied experiences, which many reviewers found disappointing. Additionally, the repetitive nature of gameplay was a common critique, with Guardian and Malditos Nerds pointing out that this could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment towards the replay value of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy. While there are elements that encourage replayability, such as dialogue choices and a New Game Plus mode, many reviewers, including Game Informer and Digital Trends, argue that the linearity and limited impact of choices significantly hinder the game's potential for multiple playthroughs. Ultimately, while some players may find enough incentive to explore different outcomes, the majority of critics suggest that the game lacks the depth and complexity needed to truly engage players in repeated experiences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its strong narrative, character development, and engaging gameplay. Critics like XGN and GamingTrend highlight the game's ability to blend humor and emotional storytelling, making it a standout title in 2021. The character dynamics and interactions are frequently noted as a highlight, with reviewers such as Noisy Pixel and DualShockers emphasizing the effort put into crafting a memorable experience that resonates with both Marvel fans and newcomers. The visuals and audio presentation also receive commendation, with many critics, including Game Informer and We Got This Covered, noting the high-quality production values that enhance the overall experience. However, despite the praise, several critics point out significant flaws that detract from the game's overall impact. Issues such as technical bugs, pacing problems, and repetitive gameplay elements are frequently mentioned. For instance, CGMagazine and Riot Pixels express concerns about the game's pacing and structural issues, while others, like SpazioGames and Merlin'in Kazanı, criticize the linearity and repetitiveness of gameplay. The cloud version on the Nintendo Switch is specifically called out by Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo as a disastrous experience, overshadowing the game's merits for that platform. These criticisms suggest that while the game has strong elements, it is not without its shortcomings. The overall consensus among critics is that Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of the franchise, despite its flaws. Most reviewers agree that the game's storytelling and character interactions are its strongest aspects, making it an enjoyable single-player adventure. Critics such as IGN Adria and GamingBolt encapsulate this sentiment by describing it as a "pleasant surprise" and a "solid, enjoyable game." While there are notable technical and gameplay issues, the charm and depth of the narrative seem to resonate strongly, positioning the game as a significant improvement over previous Marvel titles, as noted by Stevivor and GameCritics. Ultimately, the game is seen as a commendable entry in the superhero genre, appealing to a broad audience while acknowledging its imperfections.

TL;DR

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy earns mostly positive reviews for its compelling narrative, character depth, and high production quality, praised for blending humor and emotion. However, it faces criticism for technical bugs, pacing issues, and repetitive gameplay—especially on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, it's a "pleasant surprise" and a notable improvement over past Marvel games, appealing especially to franchise fans despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

154 reviews found

100

New York Daily News

PlayStation 5

Nov 3, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a fantastic adventure game and everything you could want in a Marvel video game.

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Stevivor

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy is a focused and enjoyable experience, surpassing previous Marvel games with its character depth and engaging story.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is hailed as a fantastic game, potentially the best of the year, with a strong narrative, excellent voice acting, and engaging gameplay.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a standout comic book game, praised for its writing, combat, and emotional depth. It sets a new standard for superhero games.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 26, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a strong contender for Game of the Year, offering a unique and engaging experience that stands apart from the MCU, with rich storytelling and character development.

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XGN

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a standout title of 2021, successfully blending engaging storytelling, enjoyable gameplay, and a strong visual and audio presentation.

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Areajugones

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a spectacular single-player game that combines narrative, gameplay, and music effectively, despite its linearity and technical issues.

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Game Over Online

PlayStation 5

Oct 30, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a well-crafted game that improves upon its predecessor with better combat, character depth, and a stellar soundtrack.

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy ofrece una experiencia lineal excelente, con un diseño artístico sublime, un sistema de combate divertido y un guion sobresaliente, a pesar de algunos problemas técnicos menores.

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Oct 25, 2021

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

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy is a well-crafted single-player experience that successfully combines engaging storytelling, solid gameplay mechanics, and impressive visuals, making it a worthy addition to the superhero genre.

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