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MONSTER

Marvel's Midnight Suns

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Marvel's Midnight Suns
Item: Marvel's Midnight Suns
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableDec 2, 2022

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFiraxis Games

Overview

Marvel’s Midnight Suns is the ultimate crossover event combining the rich story, character relationships, customization and progression of an RPG with the tactical strategy and combat mechanics of a revolutionary new card-based tactics game. Set in the darker side of the Marvel Universe, you will forge unbreakable bonds with legendary Marvel Super Heroes and dangerous supernatural warriors in the fight against the world’s greatest threat yet…the demonic forces of Lilith and the elder god Chthon.

Elsewhere

8.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns delivers a mix of engaging character development and familiar Marvel charm, praised for its immersive narrative and character interactions. Critics commend the customizable protagonist, Hunter, but lament the story's juvenile writing and clichéd execution, with some finding it predictable and lacking depth. While fans of the franchise may enjoy the experience, the game struggles to offer a compelling narrative, leaving a divide in critical reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the story of Marvel's Midnight Suns reveal a range of positive sentiments, particularly regarding character development and engagement with the narrative. Critics like AusGamers and CGMagazine highlight the game's ability to capture the spirit of Marvel's comic book and cinematic universes, with CGMagazine noting its focus on the arcane corners of the Marvel universe. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and GamesRadar+, commend the character interactions, with GamesRadar+ pointing out the empathetic nuance in the script. The customizable protagonist, Hunter, is praised for adding a personal touch to the story, allowing players to shape their character's personality and relationships, as noted by TheGamer and TheSixthAxis. Overall, there is a consensus that the game successfully integrates familiar Marvel elements while introducing new characters and deeper narratives. However, several critics express significant concerns about the story's execution. WellPlayed and Digitally Downloaded describe the writing as juvenile and ham-fisted, with the latter criticizing the reliance on quips and humor that detracts from the narrative's depth. Critics like The Enemy and Gfinity find the story to be generic and lacking in major consequences, suggesting that it falls into predictable patterns typical of superhero narratives. Additionally, GRYOnline.pl mentions the clichéd nature of the story, indicating a sense of wasted potential due to uninteresting dialogue. This sentiment is echoed by Comicbook.com, which describes the plot as serviceable but ultimately unexciting. The overall consensus among critics indicates that while Marvel's Midnight Suns offers an engaging experience with well-developed characters and a unique premise, it struggles with narrative depth and originality. Many reviewers appreciate the character dynamics and the integration of various Marvel heroes, but there is a notable divide regarding the quality of the storytelling itself. Critics like RPGamer and Gamers Heroes recognize the enjoyable aspects of the plot, while others like WellPlayed and Digitally Downloaded highlight its shortcomings. Ultimately, the game seems to resonate well with fans of the franchise, though it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more profound narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns impresses with its innovative blend of turn-based strategy and card mechanics, earning praise for engaging tactical combat and character interactions. Critics appreciate the strategic depth but highlight issues like repetitiveness, slow pacing, and limited enemy variety. Despite these concerns, the game stands out as a compelling tactical RPG, appealing to both genre veterans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Marvel's Midnight Suns has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who have praised its innovative blend of turn-based strategy and card mechanics. Reviewers such as GameSkinny and Push Square highlighted the engaging nature of the tactical combat, noting its depth and the strategic options available to players. The card-based system not only introduces a fresh dynamic but also encourages players to experiment with different hero abilities and team compositions, as pointed out by RPG Site and VGC. Additionally, the game’s social component, which allows players to build relationships with heroes, further enriches the gameplay experience, adding layers of strategy and engagement (as noted by GamersRD and Ragequit.gr). However, several critics raised concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay that detract from its overall enjoyment. The Enemy and GameCritics both mentioned a sense of repetitiveness that can set in after prolonged play, with GameCritics specifically noting the slow pace of combat and limited control over hero positioning. Eurogamer Poland echoed this sentiment, pointing out a lack of enemy variety and mission objectives that can lead to frustration during combat. Furthermore, the randomization of card draws, as highlighted by Finger Guns, can sometimes result in players feeling constrained or disengaged, detracting from the otherwise dynamic experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Marvel's Midnight Suns offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, successfully merging strategic elements with card mechanics. While there are valid criticisms regarding repetitiveness and certain gameplay constraints, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Adria and GamesRadar+, found the combat system to be engaging and rewarding. The game’s ability to encourage strategic thinking and creative problem-solving, alongside its rich character interactions, positions it as a noteworthy entry in the tactical RPG genre, appealing to both fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns impresses with vibrant visuals and dynamic combat animations, winning praise from many reviewers for its comic-inspired style. However, it struggles with outdated character models and stiff animations, particularly in dialogue scenes, leading to a mixed reception. While combat shines, the inconsistency in character fidelity detracts from the overall experience, leaving critics divided on its visual quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

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 Midnight Suns have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. Many critics, such as IGN Adria and GamingTrend, highlight the game's vibrant world and well-designed characters, noting that it successfully blends comic and cinematic styles. The combat visuals are frequently praised, with reviewers like Destructoid and Game Informer commending the beautiful special animations and impressive particle effects during battles. The unique animations for each character's abilities, as mentioned by PLAY! Zine, contribute to a visually appealing experience that resonates with the comic book aesthetic, making the game enjoyable for fans of the genre. However, despite the positive aspects, a significant number of critics point out various shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Games.cz and MGG describe the character models as outdated and lacking detail, especially during dialogue scenes, which detracts from the overall experience. Metro GameCentral and Softpedia echo this sentiment, emphasizing that the character graphics do not effectively convey the game's melodrama. Many reviews note that animations can be stiff and robotic, with GameSpot and Hooked Gamers specifically mentioning issues with facial animations and expressiveness. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Power Unlimited also mention graphical issues that impact the overall presentation, particularly in less action-oriented scenes. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Marvel's Midnight Suns excels in certain areas, particularly during combat, it struggles with character models and animations that feel outdated or lacking in detail. Many reviewers, including PCGamesN and CD-Action, acknowledge that the game has solid art direction but falls short of contemporary standards, particularly in character fidelity. Despite these criticisms, some reviewers, like GameOver.gr and PSX Brasil, argue that the visual shortcomings do not significantly detract from the overall gaming experience. Ultimately, the game presents a mixed bag of visual quality, with a strong emphasis on combat aesthetics overshadowed by inconsistencies in character design and animations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns boasts stellar voice acting and immersive sound design, praised for capturing the Marvel essence. Critics highlight standout performances by stars like Yuri Lowenthal and Michael Jai White, enhancing the game's atmosphere. However, the music has been deemed forgettable by some, and inconsistencies in voice acting and technical issues like lip-syncing mar the experience. Overall, it's a mixed bag—strong on immersion but with notable flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

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 Midnight Suns have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive audio experience. Many reviewers praised the impressive voice acting, with critics like PlaySense and Worth Playing noting the standout performances from a star-studded cast, including Yuri Lowenthal as Spider-Man and Michael Jai White as Blade. The incorporation of themes reminiscent of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as mentioned by GamersRD and Vgames, effectively captures the essence of the franchise. Additionally, the sound design was often described as excellent, with impactful sound effects that enhance the gameplay experience, as noted by Push Square and IGN Italia. The overall audio quality, including the orchestral music and character voices, contributes positively to the game's atmosphere, making it a strong point in the overall presentation. However, there were notable criticisms regarding the music and sound design. Some critics, such as IGN Adria and Attack of the Fanboy, described the music as forgettable or generic, suggesting it fails to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, while the voice acting was generally praised, some reviews, like those from GamingBolt and Metro GameCentral, pointed out inconsistencies in performance quality, with certain characters lacking emotional depth or delivering wooden performances. Issues with lip-syncing were also mentioned by GamersRD, indicating that technical aspects of the audio experience could have been better executed. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Marvel's Midnight Suns excels in voice acting and sound design, the music does not consistently meet the high standards set by the franchise. The game effectively immerses players in its world through strong character performances and impactful sound effects, as highlighted by critics like Player 2 and PCGamesN. However, the mixed opinions on the music and occasional voice acting inconsistencies suggest that there is room for improvement. The game successfully captures the spirit of the Marvel universe, but some elements may not resonate as powerfully with all players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns showcases impressive voice acting that immerses players in its characters, with standout performances from actors like Yuri Lowenthal (Spider-Man) and Michael Jai White (Blade) earning praise for emotional depth. However, critics are divided, with some noting inconsistent performances and lackluster portrayals, particularly of The Hunter, undermining the game's immersive experience. Overall, while many commend the voice acting, there are significant critiques regarding its emotional resonance and character authenticity, highlighting a mixed reception in a game that aims for cinematic excellence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Marvel's Midnight Suns has received a commendable amount of praise from various critics, highlighting the game's commitment to character immersion and emotional depth. Many reviewers, such as Worth Playing, RPG Fan, and The XboxHub, noted that the performances are top-notch, with characters like Spider-Man, voiced by Yuri Lowenthal, and Blade, voiced by Michael Jai White, standing out for their engaging portrayals. Critics like PCGamesN and VGC emphasized that the voice acting captures the essence of the characters, enhancing the overall storytelling experience. Additionally, GAMINGbible and Attack of the Fanboy mentioned that the voice cast, featuring notable actors reprising their roles from the films, significantly contributes to the game's immersive atmosphere. Conversely, a notable segment of critics expressed dissatisfaction with the voice acting, describing it as inconsistent and at times lacking emotional resonance. Reviewers like WellPlayed and GamingBolt criticized the performances for being monotone and forced, particularly pointing out that the banter and line delivery often felt cringe-worthy. The character of The Hunter received specific criticism for being portrayed as dry and lifeless, as highlighted by XGN and PC Invasion. Furthermore, some critics, such as Metro GameCentral and Hey Poor Player, mentioned that certain characters felt more like impersonators rather than original portrayals, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a significant divide between those who found the voice acting to be a strong point of the game and those who felt it fell short. While many, including Dexerto and Softpedia, praised the effective performances that enhance character interactions, others pointed out the inconsistencies and lack of depth in certain portrayals. This dichotomy suggests that while Marvel's Midnight Suns features standout performances that resonate well with players, it also struggles with some characterizations that may not meet the high expectations set by its cinematic counterparts. The varied opinions reflect a complex landscape of voice acting that, while rich in potential, does not always deliver uniformly across the cast.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns impresses with solid performance on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for stable frame rates and smooth gameplay. However, significant bugs and crashes plague all platforms, with the PC version suffering from severe optimization issues. Despite engaging content, technical flaws could hinder player enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

Positives: Across the various platforms, critics have noted several positive aspects regarding the technical performance of Marvel's Midnight Suns. On the PS5, many reviewers, including IGN Adria and Gamers Heroes, praised the game's smooth performance, highlighting stable frame rates and fluid animations. Critics like MeuPlayStation also mentioned that while there are minor bugs, the overall stability of the game is commendable. On the Xbox Series X, reviews from Generación Xbox and PCMag echoed similar sentiments, noting solid frame rates and minimal bugs, with only a couple of crashes reported. The PC version received mixed feedback, but some reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr, found it well-optimized, maintaining stable frame rates and reasonable loading times, especially on higher-end hardware. Negatives: Despite the positives, there are notable negatives across all platforms that detract from the overall experience. On PS5, critics like BaziCenter and Gamers Heroes reported significant issues, including frequent crashes and problematic save mechanics that disrupt gameplay. PlayStation Universe pointed out game-breaking bugs that can lock players out of missions, while Screen Rant highlighted technical issues like lost progress and graphical glitches. The Xbox Series X version faced criticism from Attack of the Fanboy and Xbox Achievements for game-breaking bugs and audio issues, indicating a lack of stability compared to the PC version. On PC, the situation appears more severe, with many critics, including PCGamesN and MGG, detailing frequent crashes, performance drops, and optimization issues that hinder the gaming experience, particularly during saving and intense gameplay moments. Overall Consensus: The overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed bag of technical performance for Marvel's Midnight Suns across all platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions have received some praise for their stable performance, the presence of bugs and crashes remains a significant concern, as noted by reviewers like Gamers Heroes and Attack of the Fanboy. The PC version, while praised for its potential on high-end systems, suffers from substantial optimization issues, as highlighted by Eurogamer Poland and PC Invasion, leading to a frustrating experience for many players. Ultimately, while the game offers engaging content, the technical performance issues across all platforms suggest that players may encounter frustrating moments that could detract from their enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns has mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise its lengthy campaign (60+ hours), New Game+ mode, and diverse gameplay options that encourage replay. However, concerns over repetitive mechanics, grind, and lack of level variation may deter some players. Ultimately, replayability depends on individual preferences, with some players finding it engaging while others see it as monotonous.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Marvel's Midnight Suns is mixed, with many critics highlighting several positive aspects that contribute to its replayability. Reviewers like IGN and Metro GameCentral emphasize the game's substantial campaign length, with playtimes often exceeding 60 hours, and the inclusion of a New Game+ mode that encourages players to revisit the game with new strategies and character builds. Critics such as Push Square and Siliconera appreciate the variety of gameplay options, including different team combinations and deck customizations, which allow players to tailor their experiences. Additionally, GameGrin notes that the game provides enough choices to cater to different playstyles, while Everyeye.it and PC Gamer highlight the engaging side quests and character interactions that enhance replayability. However, several critics also point out notable drawbacks that may hinder the game's replay value. GRYOnline.pl criticizes the repetitive nature and grindy mechanics that can diminish the overall experience, while JeuxActu mentions that certain hub area mechanics might detract from replayability. Digital Trends notes that levels can blend together, lacking variation, which could lead to a sense of monotony upon replay. Furthermore, Worth Playing and CD-Action echo concerns about the potential repetitiveness of exploration, suggesting that while there are engaging elements, some aspects may not hold players' attention over multiple playthroughs. The consensus among critics is that Marvel's Midnight Suns offers a wealth of content and features that can provide significant replay value, but this is tempered by concerns over repetitiveness and grind. While many reviewers, such as GamersRD and TheSixthAxis, express enthusiasm for the game's depth and variety, others like Destructoid and VGC caution that the experience may not be as compelling for all players. Ultimately, the game's replayability appears to hinge on individual player preferences, with some finding ample motivation to return for additional playthroughs, while others may feel the experience lacks the necessary variation to warrant repeated engagement.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns has garnered a variety of opinions from critics, many of whom highlight the game's strengths, particularly its innovative blend of genres and engaging gameplay mechanics. Critics like DualShockers and GamingTrend commend the game for successfully merging elements from the Marvel universe with tactical RPG gameplay, noting that the combat system is both deep and enjoyable. Additionally, the character interactions and social dynamics have been praised, with GameSpot and VG247 pointing out that the game offers a wholesome relationship simulator that enhances the overall experience. The unique card-based combat system has also received accolades for its strategic depth, making it a standout feature that appeals to both strategy enthusiasts and Marvel fans alike, as noted by IGN and PC Gamer. However, the game is not without its flaws, which have been pointed out by several reviewers. Critics such as WellPlayed and GRYOnline.pl express disappointment with the game's writing and narrative structure, suggesting that it feels more like a budget mobile title rather than a polished AAA experience. Issues such as excessive time-wasting mechanics, poor humor, and technical problems have been highlighted by others, including CD-Action and XGN, who lament the lack of variety and depth in certain gameplay aspects. Furthermore, the pacing of the game has been criticized, with GameCritics describing it as disjointed and torpid, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. The overall consensus among critics is a mixed but generally positive reception of Marvel's Midnight Suns. While some reviewers, like Gaming Age and Ragequit.gr, rate it highly and recommend it for fans of the genre, others express frustration with its shortcomings. Critics like Merlin'in Kazanı and MGG acknowledge that despite its flaws, the game still manages to deliver an enjoyable experience, particularly for those who appreciate its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay. Ultimately, while Marvel's Midnight Suns may not fully meet the expectations set by its predecessors, it still stands out as a noteworthy entry in the superhero gaming landscape, appealing to a broad audience of both Marvel fans and tactical RPG enthusiasts.

TL;DR

Marvel's Midnight Suns impresses with its innovative blend of tactical RPG mechanics and Marvel lore, earning praise for its engaging gameplay and character interactions. However, critics flag issues with writing, pacing, and technical problems, leading to a mixed reception. While some consider it a must-play for genre fans, others see it as lacking polish compared to AAA titles. Overall, it’s a solid but flawed entry in the superhero gaming scene.

MONSTER

Reviews

181 reviews found

100

GamesHub

Nov 30, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a grounded and personal game with excellent tactical combat and high emotions, earning a five-star rating.

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100

VGC

Nov 30, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a bold, memorable, and heartful strategy game with brilliant writing, a stellar cast of characters, and a rich campaign. It is a rock-solid addition to Firaxis' lineup of strategy games.

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100

Player 2

Nov 30, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a must-play game that combines turn-based strategy, deck-building, and a compelling story. It is welcoming, challenging, engaging, and entertaining. The game is a marvel and showcases Firaxis as one of the best strategy game developers.

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100

PC Invasion

Dec 9, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns exceeds expectations and offers a thoroughly engaging gameplay experience.

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Cultured Vultures

Nov 30, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a dense and content-rich experience that is highly recommended for fans of the genre and Marvel universe.

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God is a Geek

Nov 30, 2022

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

Despite some bugs and glitches, Marvel's Midnight Suns is a highly enjoyable superhero game that breathes new life into the genre.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Dec 8, 2022

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

Marvel's Midnight Suns is a game that shouldn't be missed if you're interested in strategic card-based combat. The passionate studio behind the game has delivered on the promise and potential of the established IP. However, if the card-based combat system is not for you, nothing else in the game is likely to change your mind.

Power Unlimited

Nov 30, 2022

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

A mix of enjoyable game elements that will captivate fans of superheroes, RPGs, and turn-based tactics.

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ComicBook

Nov 30, 2022

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

Overall, Marvel's Midnight Suns is considered a rich RPG with satisfying gameplay and charismatic characters, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

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Comicbook.com

Nov 30, 2022

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

The game is described as a rich RPG that superhero lovers and turn-based fans will enjoy. The reviewer, who is not a fan of turn-based combat, encourages others to give it a try. The game is praised as a marvelous achievement.

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