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MONSTER

Monark

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Monark
Item: Monark
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableFeb 22, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

DeveloperLancarse

Overview

Monark, the “new school RPG” from former Megami Tensei and Shin Megami Tensei staff, will launch for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Switch on October 14 in Japan. The story follows the True Student Council, which was established to solve the abnormal situations in the school. The protagonist, who becomes the deputy head of the council, chooses a buddy from four characters to defy the unreasonable. The main story has multiple endings. There are different routes for each of the four buddy characters. To make multiple playthroughs easier, you can also skip shared routes and advance through different buddy routes. Battles are command-based with a free move turn system. Increasing your madness will allow you to use more powerful skills, but if you increase it too much, you will go insane and rampage against targets both friend and foe, making it impossible to fight. There is also an “EGO” system, which represents the player’s desire levels of pride, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, and sloth. These change depending on your diagnosis and the choices you make, and also affect the demons you can employ as your “underlings.”

Elsewhere

6.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Monark's bold exploration of psychological horror and moral complexity is overshadowed by a disjointed narrative, underdeveloped characters, and overused tropes, earning mixed to negative reviews for its unfulfilled potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The story of Monark is praised for its ambitious thematic depth and unique narrative framework, with several critics highlighting its exploration of psychological horror, philosophical concepts, and the seven deadly sins. Nintendo Life commends the game’s "dramatic, sometimes brutal, and thought-provoking" storyline, noting its inspiration from Persona 5 and Shin Megami Tensei, while PlaySense appreciates its "philosophical" approach to human weakness and moral dilemmas. The Games Machine acknowledges an "engaging narrative framework" despite its lack of depth, and Nintendo WorldReport highlights the complexity of elements like daemons, pacts, and moral choices. Critics also praise the game’s attempt to blend psychological themes with a high school setting, as seen in the intriguing premise of a protagonist navigating a mist-encased academy, as noted by Push Square and God is a Geek. However, the narrative faces widespread criticism for its structural flaws, underdeveloped characters, and inconsistent pacing. Movies Games and Tech lambasts the story as "slow, poorly structured, and featuring underdeveloped characters," while Gfinity and Universo Nintendo criticize it for being "unoriginal" and lacking emotional investment. SpazioGames and PC Invasion point to incoherence, excessive jargon, and weak character arcs, with the latter noting that "the execution is subpar" despite attempts at philosophical exploration. PSX Brasil and Nintenduo highlight clichéd characters and underdeveloped motivations, while The Games Machine and Switch Player criticize reliance on anime tropes. Many also note issues with dialogue (e.g., "stiff dialogue" from Checkpoint Gaming) and repetitive gameplay that undermines the narrative’s potential. Overall, critics agree that Monark has strong thematic ambitions but struggles to deliver a cohesive or emotionally resonant story. While it draws praise for its psychological depth, moral complexity, and unique setting—as noted by Nintendo Life, PlaySense, and God is a Geek—the game is frequently criticized for its poor pacing, shallow character development, and overreliance on familiar tropes. The consensus leans toward mixed to negative reviews, with many acknowledging its potential but emphasizing that its execution falls short. As noted by multiple outlets like Movies Games and Tech, SpazioGames, and PC Invasion, the narrative’s flaws—particularly in structure and character engagement—prevent it from fully realizing its promising ideas.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Monark dazzles with tactical combat and inventive mechanics but is bogged down by repetitive structures, grind-heavy progression, and design flaws, creating a polarizing experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Monark receives praise for its strategic turn-based combat systems and unique mechanics that offer depth and variety. Critics like Gfinity highlight the tactical elements, including Authorities, chain attacks, and risk-reward mechanics, while PSX Brasil and Comicbook.com commend the combat as the game’s strongest aspect, noting its resemblance to XCOM and Lost Dimension with systems like the Ego tree and MAD meter. The integration of puzzle-solving and exploration is also lauded, with PlayStation Universe appreciating the detective work and puzzle-driven progression, and Noisy Pixel praising the "Defer" mechanic and SPIRIT currency for adding strategic flexibility. Additionally, Nintendo Life and Movies Games and Tech acknowledge the innovative systems like the "Enlightened" state and smartphone-triggered battles, which add layers of complexity to the gameplay. However, the consensus on Monark’s gameplay is heavily shaped by its repetitive structures and design flaws. Multiple critics, including Starbit, GamingBolt, and Push Square, criticize the monotonous level design, grindy progression systems, and lack of enemy variety, which undermine the experience. The puzzle mechanics are frequently called out as either overly simplistic or frustratingly complex, with Universo Nintendo and Starbit noting poorly designed puzzles and repetitive challenges. Combat, while praised for its depth, is often deemed tedious due to unbalanced scaling, excessive grinding, and slow character growth—issues highlighted by Gfinity, Nintendo Life, and Everyeye.it. The game’s reliance on the "MAD" meter and other mechanics, while unique, is seen as punitive or confusing by reviewers like Push Square and Jeuxvideo.com, further detracting from its appeal. Overall, Monark’s gameplay is a mixed bag of innovative ideas and execution flaws. While its tactical combat systems, puzzle integration, and unique mechanics (such as the Ego system and MAD meter) are frequently praised by critics like Gfinity, PSX Brasil, and Comicbook.com, the game’s repetitive structures, grinding requirements, and design inconsistencies create a polarizing experience. The majority of reviewers, including Starbit, GamingBolt, and Push Square, agree that the core mechanics have potential but are overshadowed by issues like poor pacing, unbalanced progression, and frustrating puzzle design. Despite its ambition, Monark struggles to fully realize its vision, leaving players divided between appreciating its depth and being hindered by its repetitive and grinding-heavy systems.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Monark dazzles with tactical combat and inventive mechanics but is bogged down by repetitive structures, grind-heavy progression, and design flaws, creating a polarizing experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Stale, uninspired graphics undermine Monark’s eerie atmosphere, as artistic ambition clashes with technical mediocrity, repetitive design, and a jarring disconnect between concept art and execution, leaving critics disappointed by its unpolished, underwhelming visuals.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

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

The initial reception of Monark’s graphics and visual design highlights several commendable aspects, particularly its artistic choices and atmospheric elements. Critics like GameMAG praised the minimalist monochromatic palette (black, white, red) and stark animations, which effectively reinforce the game’s eerie tone. Similarly, Hobby Consolas and Nintendo Life noted the distinctive character designs by So-Bin, especially the painterly 2D portraits and the unsettling, mystical aesthetics of the Monarks. BaziCenter acknowledged the contrast between the game’s unimpressive in-game visuals and its cinematic cutscenes, which showcased better effects. Additionally, Screen Rant highlighted the memorable Mist and Otherworld environments, while PC Invasion appreciated the gothic atmosphere and Ego costumes as redeeming visual elements. These positives suggest that Monark’s art direction, though limited in technical polish, successfully cultivates a unique horror aesthetic. However, the negatives dominate the critique, with many reviewers pointing to outdated graphics, repetitive designs, and technical shortcomings. SpazioGames and Universo Nintendo were particularly harsh, comparing the visuals to PlayStation 2-era quality and labeling them "terrible," respectively. GamingBolt criticized the bland, generic school environments, while PlayStation Universe and The Games Machine noted poor lighting, character models, and level design that felt simplistic. GameMAG and MGG described the art style as intentionally dated but unpolished, with sparse environments and a muted color palette. Issues like stiff animations (Eurogamer Italy), repetitive enemy models (PlayStation Universe), and technical glitches (NintendoWorldReport) further undermined the experience. Even on newer platforms like PS5 and Switch, Comicbook.com and Starbit pointed to low-resolution textures and unimpressive visuals that failed to meet modern expectations. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward disappointment, with Monark’s visual design being praised for its artistic intent and atmospheric cohesion while criticized for technical inadequacies and lack of innovation. While some reviewers, like Screen Rant and GameMAG, acknowledged the game’s unique style and horror elements, the majority felt it fell short in execution. The contrast between the game’s conceptual art (e.g., So-Bin’s character designs) and its underwhelming 3D models (Hobby Consolas, The Mako Reactor) highlighted a disconnect between vision and implementation. Ultimately, Monark’s visuals are seen as a case of "good ideas but poor execution," with its artistic choices unable to compensate for the technical limitations and repetitive design that many critics found frustrating.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Monark's sound design shines with electrifying boss battle tracks and bold J-pop fusion, earning acclaim for its energy and creativity, but repetitive, inconsistent pacing and occasional tonal mismatches drag down the overall impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

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 Monark receive widespread praise, particularly for their energetic battle themes and eclectic stylistic choices. Critics like BaziCenter highlight the "excellent tracks that enhance the intensity of combat," while Checkpoint Gaming and PlayStation Universe commend the J-pop boss fight songs for their vibrant energy and memorability. Everyeye.it and Hobby Consolas laud Tsukasa Masuko’s soundtrack as dynamic and atmospheric, with GameMAG noting its immersive blend of ambient jazz, electronic beats, and pop/hip-hop. The collaboration with V-Tuber group Kamitsubaki, mentioned by Hooked Gamers and Inverse, adds a unique flair, particularly in boss battles. Additionally, Nintendo Life and Screen Rant praise the varied compositions, from smooth jazz to dramatic orchestration, which effectively complement the game’s tone and emotional beats. Despite these positives, several critics point out shortcomings in the soundtrack’s consistency and originality. Push Square and PlayStation Universe criticize the overall music as "boring" and "repetitive," with only boss themes standing out. NintendoWorldReport and Nintenduo describe the score as unremarkable, lacking the memorability of other titles. Some reviewers note that the soundtrack occasionally feels "out of place" (as per Hobby Consolas) or fails to align with the game’s narrative tone. Additionally, while Jeuxvideo.com and others praise the sound effects as reminiscent of older Shin Megami Tensei games, there is a recurring critique about limited variety in non-boss scenarios. Movies Games and Tech also points out that slice-of-life scenes feature an "upbeat but misplaced" Persona-esque style, clashing with the game’s darker themes. Overall, the consensus leans heavily toward appreciation for Monark’s sound design, particularly its boss battle music and stylistic experimentation. While some critics like The Games Machine call it "more than good," others such as RPGamer and God is a Geek highlight its atmospheric depth and emotional resonance. However, the soundtrack’s broader impact remains divisive—some see it as a standout element that elevates the experience, while others feel it lacks the polish or innovation to fully justify its role in the game. The mixed reception underscores a balance between creative ambition and technical execution, with the J-pop-infused battle tracks serving as the most universally celebrated aspect.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Monark's voice acting is a mixed bag: praised for immersive, expressive performances in both English and Japanese, with standout moments like Vanitas’s unique delivery, but plagued by inconsistency, grating characters like Veritas, and limited dialogue that undermines impact. While bilingual options and strong localization elevate the experience, flaws in execution create a split reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The voice acting in Monark receives generally positive reception across multiple reviews, with several critics highlighting its strengths. Checkpoint Gaming praises the "consistently impressive" performances across the cast, noting that even though the narrative has flaws, the vocal delivery adds depth to characters. PlaySense and Nintendo Life commend the strong, expressive performances, particularly in English, while also acknowledging the quality of Japanese voices, which some critics like Everyeye.it and Nintenduo prefer for their "superior delivery." The dual audio option is celebrated by The Mako Reactor as a "welcome surprise," enhancing accessibility and immersion. Standout moments include Nintendo Life’s praise for Vanitas’s "alliterative speech patterns" and the immersive atmosphere created by RPGamer’s description of English voice acting as "convincing." These positives underscore the vocal performances as a key strength, even amid mixed opinions on other aspects of the game. However, several critics point to notable flaws in the voice acting. GamingBolt criticizes it as "wildly inconsistent," which detracts from the experience despite the game’s philosophical and horror elements. PC Invasion specifically targets Veritas, the floating toy rabbit mascot, for its "grating voice" and "annoying dialogue," calling it a significant distraction. Eurogamer Italy notes the protagonist’s lack of voice acting as a drawback, while Nintendo WorldReport mentions that limited dialogue and emotional depth reduce the impact of the performances. Checkpoint Gaming also highlights the rhyming dialogue of Veritas as an annoyance, and PlayStation Universe criticizes the "one annoying character" for undermining the overall experience. These critiques suggest that while many vocal performances succeed, specific elements or characters fall short, creating a mixed impression. Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for Monark’s voice acting, particularly its bilingual availability and strong performances in both English and Japanese. While some critics like Everyeye.it and Nintenduo favor the Japanese tracks for their authenticity, others such as PlaySense and Nintendo Life praise the English dub’s quality. However, the presence of inconsistent delivery (GamingBolt), problematic characters (PC Invasion, PlayStation Universe), and limited localization options (Hobby Consolas) creates a split perspective. Despite these issues, the voice acting is widely seen as a contributing factor to the game’s immersive atmosphere, with The Mako Reactor noting its "excellent" localization as a standout feature. The mixed feedback reflects both the strengths of the vocal work and the challenges in balancing it with other narrative and design elements.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Monark delivers a chaotic technical experience: PS5 shines with stability but suffers from AI issues, while Nintendo Switch struggles with glitches, poor optimization, and lag—calling its performance "shameful." PS4 and PC face unpolished mechanics and outdated visuals, dragging down an otherwise ambitious title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

32%

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

The technical performance of Monark varies significantly across platforms, with some positive notes. On PS5, Everyeye.it praised its smooth gameplay with a stable frame rate and minimal load times, while PlaySense highlighted 60fps consistency and overall stability despite minor level scaling issues. For the Nintendo Switch, Comicbook.com noted a bug-free experience, calling it "smooth" and "stable," though this contrasts with other critics’ concerns. On PS4, Inverse acknowledged the absence of major bugs but criticized combat animations and a frustrating game-over mechanic, while Movies Games and Tech pointed to unpolished controls. The PC version received less direct praise, but Jeuxvideo.com’s general criticism of technical aspects suggests similar issues across platforms. Negatives dominate the critique, particularly on PS5, where GameMAG highlighted unpredictable AI, unresponsive allies, and poorly designed boss fights, while MGG and SpazioGames criticized outdated graphics, long load times, and a "dated remaster" feel. The Nintendo Switch faced more severe issues: God is a Geek noted framerate drops in later stages, Starbit described erratic performance and low resolution, and Switch Player reported gameplay disruptions like characters getting stuck. On PS4, Inverse and Movies Games and Tech criticized unpolished mechanics, while PC critics (like Jeuxvideo.com) echoed broader technical shortcomings. The Switch also saw graphical glitches and unstable execution, with NintendoWorldReport calling the performance "shameful" and The Mako Reactor noting poor optimization compared to PS5. Overall, the consensus is that Monark struggles with technical polish across all platforms, but the PS5 version fares best due to its hardware capabilities, despite criticisms of AI and optimization. The Nintendo Switch version faces the most significant challenges, with performance issues and graphical limitations undermining its potential. While some critics (like Everyeye.it and Comicbook.com) praised specific aspects of stability, the recurring themes of outdated visuals, poor optimization, and design flaws—particularly on less powerful hardware—paint a mixed picture. The game’s ambition is evident, but technical shortcomings, especially on Switch and PS4, detract from its overall experience, leaving many critics divided between its creative vision and execution.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Monark’s replay value is a mixed bag—structured systems and branching paths entice fans, but grind-heavy mechanics, repetition, and underwhelming content turn many off.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

40%

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

The reviews highlight several positive aspects of Monark’s replay value, particularly its structured systems and niche appeal. Critics like The Games Machine praise the Follia and Risveglio system for offering substantial gameplay hours, while Nintendo Life notes the grade-based combat system and team-building options as incentives for revisiting battles. Screen Rant mentions puzzle-solving and varied strategies as engaging elements, and PlaySense acknowledges unique concepts and story hooks that could entice fans of JRPGs. Additionally, Inverse and PSX Brasil point to branching paths and multiple endings as features that add some replay potential, even if they’re marred by repetitive mechanics. These elements suggest Monark has a foundation for replayability, especially for dedicated fans of the genre. However, the negatives dominate the critique, with most reviewers emphasizing repetition, grinding, and lackluster content. Checkpoint Gaming criticizes the “large, empty map” and absence of meaningful side quests, while GameMAG and Gfinity highlight linear storytelling and repetitive dungeon runs as major drawbacks. PlaySense and Push Square stress that grindy mechanics and punishing difficulty undermine replayability, making repeated playthroughs feel tedious. Universo Nintendo outright abandons the game due to “tedious combat” and weak narrative, while Hobby Consolas notes that slow starts and repetitive combat deter general audiences. Even The Games Machine acknowledges technical issues and narrative flaws that limit re-playability for some players. These criticisms collectively paint a picture of a game with promising mechanics but significant execution issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward disappointment in Monark’s replay value. While systems like branching narratives (Inverse, PSX Brasil) and combat variety (Nintendo Life, Screen Rant) offer some appeal, the repetitive level design, grinding, and lack of engaging content (GameMAG, Gfinity, Push Square) overshadow these positives. The Games Machine’s acknowledgment of longevity contrasts with Universo Nintendo’s rejection, reflecting a divide between niche fans and broader audiences. Ultimately, Monark is seen as a game that could satisfy JRPG enthusiasts seeking specific mechanics but struggles to maintain engagement due to its repetitive structure and underdeveloped side content.

TL;DR

replay value

Monark’s replay value is a mixed bag—structured systems and branching paths entice fans, but grind-heavy mechanics, repetition, and underwhelming content turn many off.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

76%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall reception of Monark highlights its ambitious ideas and unique strengths, particularly in narrative depth, combat mechanics, and atmospheric design. Critics like Everyeye.it praised its engaging story and strategic combat, while GameMAG and RPGamer noted its bold attempt to blend psychological themes with innovative mechanics. The game’s Ego-based character development (highlighted by Hardcore Gamer) and tactical battles were frequently cited as standout features, offering a fresh take on JRPG conventions. Additionally, Digitally Downloaded and God is a Geek commended its cerebral storytelling and strong audio design, with the latter emphasizing its "unique horror-influenced JRPG design." Even critics who found flaws in execution acknowledged the game’s potential, such as Hobby Consolas, who noted its "unique premise" and "engaging mechanics that improve over time." However, Monark faces significant criticism for its execution, particularly in pacing, repetition, and technical shortcomings. BaziCenter and GameMAG pointed to poor design choices, including grinding and unpolished systems, while GamingBolt and Push Square criticized the game’s "tedious experience" and "excessive grinding." Repetitive gameplay mechanics, such as linear structures (Everyeye.it) and underdeveloped enemy variety (Switch Player), were recurring complaints. SpazioGames and The Games Machine lambasted its outdated visuals and shallow dialogue, while PC Invasion and NintendoWorldReport noted weak storytelling and technical limitations on certain platforms. Even the game’s narrative, though praised for its psychological themes, was deemed "unoriginal" (Checkpoint Gaming) or "underwhelming" (Movies Games and Tech), with some critics suggesting it could have been stronger as a visual novel or adventure game. Despite these flaws, the consensus among reviewers is that Monark is a mixed but ultimately worthwhile experience for JRPG fans. While Checkpoint Gaming called it "competent but unremarkable," others like Everyeye.it and RPGamer argued its unique charm and ambition make it worth trying despite imperfections. The game’s strengths—such as its tactical combat, atmospheric storytelling, and thematic depth—resonated with critics who appreciated its boldness, even if it fell short of expectations. However, the divide between its potential and execution is clear: SpazioGames deemed it a "missed opportunity," while Nintendo Life acknowledged its "compelling SRPG" qualities despite technical limitations. Ultimately, Monark appears to be a polarizing title that will appeal most to dedicated JRPG enthusiasts willing to overlook its flaws, as noted by Hooked Gamers, who called it a "cult classic with potential for dedicated fans."

TL;DR

Monark is a polarizing JRPG that dazzles with bold narrative ambition, tactical combat, and atmospheric depth but stumbles under grinding repetition, unpolished systems, and shallow execution—its unique charm and psychological themes make it worth trying for fans, though its flaws loom large.

MONSTER

Reviews

90 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark is a unique, innovative, and boundary-pushing experience that prioritizes cerebral storytelling and unconventional gameplay. While it may lack visceral intensity and some technical polish, its bold approach to narrative and mechanics makes it a standout title worth experiencing despite its flaws.

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God is a Geek

Nintendo Switch

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark is praised for its unique horror-influenced JRPG design, engaging tactical combat, and strong soundtrack. However, it faces criticism for obtuse puzzles, high difficulty, and technical issues on Switch. The review concludes it's worth experiencing despite flaws.

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PC Invasion

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark succeeds in its demonic universe and creative combat system, offering a fun experience despite its shortcomings. The reviewer acknowledges its potential to please fans of SMT and Persona but notes that it falls short of meeting high expectations due to weak storytelling and character development.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark offers unique gameplay and combat systems with a memorable narrative, but its difficulty spikes, vague puzzles, and pacing issues detract from the experience. It may appeal more to genre veterans who enjoy grinding despite these flaws.

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Everyeye.it

PlayStation 5

Feb 16, 2022

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

The reviewer praises Monark's engaging story, strategic combat, and atmospheric design while acknowledging its flaws, such as repetitive graphics and a linear structure. They recommend the game despite its shortcomings, emphasizing its unique charm and depth.

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MGG

PlayStation 5

Feb 21, 2022

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

MONARK is a passionate, if flawed, RPG that prioritizes thematic depth and artistic vision over polished execution. It rewards patient players with a unique experience but may struggle to appeal to broader audiences due to its rough edges.

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Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark is a niche RPG with a unique premise and engaging mechanics that improve over time. However, its slow pacing, lack of localization, and repetitive elements may limit its appeal. It caters primarily to fans of JRPGs and the developer's previous works but has potential for broader audiences with adjustments.

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The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Feb 17, 2022

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

Monark has potential as an anime-inspired JRPG with engaging mechanics but is held back by outdated graphics, technical flaws, and a somewhat unoriginal story. It appeals to fans of the genre but fails to fully realize its ambitions.

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Hooked Gamers

Mar 14, 2022

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

Monark is praised for its intriguing concepts and strong narrative but suffers from poor execution in gameplay and exploration. It’s deemed a cult classic with potential for dedicated fans despite its flaws.

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Eurogamer Italy

PlayStation 4

Feb 16, 2022

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

Monark is recommended for fans of the genre, offering a dynamic and immersive experience despite some flaws. It balances psychological themes with engaging gameplay and atmospheric elements.