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My Time at Sandrock

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of My Time at Sandrock
Item: My Time at Sandrock
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Simulation, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Casual, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 2, 2023

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

DeveloperPathea Games

Overview

You'll take the role of a fledgling Builder to Sandrock. It’s up to you and your trusty toolset to gather resources, construct machines, and fix up your workshop into a well-oiled production machine, and save the town from the jaws of economic ruin, as well as a few other unexpected complications.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock shines with a rich narrative and immersive post-apocalyptic setting, drawing praise for its community-building and character relationships. Critics laud its engaging story but note pacing issues and a lack of clarity in the latter third. Overall, it’s a heartfelt life simulation RPG that captivates, despite some narrative shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of My Time at Sandrock is predominantly positive, with critics praising its engaging narrative and the depth it brings to the gameplay. Reviewers like Hey Poor Player highlight the surprising depth of the story, emphasizing its focus on rebuilding civilization after a technological apocalypse. Many critics, including NintendoWorldReport and Pure Nintendo, appreciate the engaging main storyline that revolves around revitalizing a desert town, fostering community relationships, and even exploring romantic possibilities. The game’s unique post-apocalyptic setting is also frequently mentioned, with CGMagazine and Siliconera noting how it enhances the farming sim elements, making the experience feel fresh and immersive. However, there are some criticisms regarding the story's execution. RPGamer points out that while the initial setup is compelling, the narrative loses direction in the final third, leading to a meandering conclusion that lacks urgency. Movies Games and Tech echo this sentiment, describing the story as "pretty good" but feeling stop-and-start, lacking a clear goal for players. Additionally, some critics, such as Digitally Downloaded, mention that specific story details are not elaborated upon, leaving a sense of ambiguity that could detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that My Time at Sandrock offers a rich and engaging narrative set in a post-apocalyptic world, with a strong emphasis on community building and character relationships. While there are valid concerns about pacing and clarity in the latter parts of the story, the majority of reviewers, including GameCritics and Screen Rant, find the overall experience to be heartfelt and enjoyable. The charming cast of characters and the various quests and activities contribute to a sense of investment in the town's revival, making it a noteworthy title in the life simulation RPG genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock impresses with its engaging mix of life simulation, crafting, and RPG elements, earning praise for its open-ended gameplay and social interactions. However, critics point to significant flaws, such as a fast in-game clock, cumbersome crafting systems, and technical issues on the Switch, which can hinder enjoyment. While the game offers a rich experience, its complexity and execution may overwhelm some players. Overall, it's a promising title with caveats.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of My Time at Sandrock has garnered a range of opinions from critics, many of whom highlight its engaging and multifaceted nature. Reviewers from Digitally Downloaded and TouchArcade praised the game for its open-ended gameplay that combines life simulation with crafting, farming, and social interactions, creating a rewarding experience. Critics like Nintendo Life and Siliconera noted the incorporation of RPG elements, such as combat and exploration, which adds depth to the gameplay. The crafting system, described as robust and complex by Hey Poor Player, enhances the sense of adventure as players gather materials and create contraptions. Additionally, the game offers a variety of activities, from fulfilling commissions to developing relationships with NPCs, which keeps players engaged, as noted by RPGamer and TheGamer. However, despite these positives, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. CGMagazine criticized the fast in-game clock and cumbersome crafting mechanics, suggesting that the limited inventory space can hinder gameplay. Others, like Vandal and GameCritics, echoed concerns about convoluted crafting systems that can feel overwhelming or frustrating at times. Technical issues on the Nintendo Switch port were also mentioned by Hey Poor Player, indicating that these problems can complicate the crafting process. Critics like Movies Games and Tech pointed out that some gameplay mechanics, such as farming and combat, may feel shallow or lack purpose, which could lead to a less satisfying experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that My Time at Sandrock offers a rich and diverse gameplay experience, though it is marred by certain technical and design flaws. While many reviewers appreciate the engaging crafting and resource management systems, as well as the social and RPG elements, there are notable criticisms regarding the pacing, complexity, and execution of these mechanics. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and CGMagazine illustrate the game's potential for immersion but also caution about its overwhelming aspects and technical issues. Ultimately, My Time at Sandrock presents a promising experience for fans of the genre, albeit with some caveats that may affect enjoyment.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock boasts vibrant art and charming character designs that many critics admire, especially on PC and PS5, where the graphics show significant improvements. However, the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by poor performance, low frame rates, and lackluster visuals, leading to a consensus that it's the weakest platform for this game. The experience varies greatly depending on where you play, underscoring the need for better optimization.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The graphics and visual design of My Time at Sandrock have garnered a mix of opinions from critics across various platforms. On the positive side, many reviewers praised the game's vibrant and colorful art style, which enhances the overall experience. Critics like Siliconera noted the charm of the character designs, describing them as colorful and diverse, while SpazioGames highlighted the beautiful desert landscapes that contribute to the game's lively atmosphere. The game’s unique setting in a post-apocalyptic desert town has been well-utilized, providing a visually engaging backdrop for players, as noted by Hey Poor Player. Additionally, some critics on PC, such as GameGrin and Movies Games and Tech, appreciated the significant improvements in graphics compared to its predecessor, with lively characters and well-designed environments adding to the game's charm. However, the negative aspects of the graphics and visual design cannot be overlooked, particularly in the Nintendo Switch version. Multiple critics, including CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded, pointed out poor visual performance characterized by low frame rates, texture pop-ins, and lackluster character models. Nintendo Life echoed these sentiments, criticizing the visuals for their low texture quality and overall lifelessness. Critics like Pocket Tactics and Pure Nintendo also mentioned performance issues such as slow loading times and frequent asset pop-ins, which detract from the immersion and enjoyment of the game. These technical shortcomings have led to a consensus that the Switch version is particularly lacking in visual fidelity. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divide in the experience of My Time at Sandrock based on the platform played. While the game shines with its charming art style and vibrant settings on higher-end platforms like PC and PS5, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from significant graphical and performance issues that undermine its visual appeal. Critics like TouchArcade and NintendoWorldReport have pointed out that the Switch is the least favorable platform for visuals, while those playing on PC and PS5, such as IGN and Twinfinite, found the graphics to be a marked improvement over the previous title, showcasing a charming and lively world. This disparity highlights the importance of platform optimization in delivering a cohesive visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock impresses with vibrant voice acting and cheerful music, enhancing its immersive atmosphere. Critics praise its sound design, although inconsistencies in voice performance and some audio mixing issues were noted. Overall, the game's auditory elements contribute significantly to its charm, making it a delightful experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of My Time at Sandrock have received a generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the voice acting and musical composition. Reviewers from NintendoWorldReport and Pocket Tactics highlighted the effective voice acting, noting that it adds vibrancy to the characters and enhances the immersive atmosphere of the game. The presence of voiced dialogue creates a lively town environment, which is further supported by SpazioGames, who described the soundtrack as cheerful and pleasant, contributing positively to the overall experience. TouchArcade also praised the music as amazing, underscoring its role in enhancing the game's ambiance, while RPGamer echoed this sentiment, stating that the music is enjoyable and enriches the game's atmosphere. Despite the overall positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding the consistency and quality of the voice acting. Vooks pointed out that while the humor in the story is effective, the voice acting could leave something to be desired, indicating a lack of uniformity in performance quality. Additionally, GameGrin mentioned issues with audio mixing, where some characters sounded distorted, which detracted from the overall sound experience. Critics like Universo Nintendo and GGRecon also provided mixed opinions on the music, with some describing it as pleasant but not remarkable, suggesting that while it serves its purpose, it may not stand out as memorable. Overall, the consensus among critics is that My Time at Sandrock succeeds in creating an enjoyable auditory experience, with commendable voice acting and music that enhances the game’s cozy atmosphere. While there are criticisms regarding the variability in voice acting quality and audio mixing, the positive remarks about the music and sound design, such as those from VG247 and IGN Italia, indicate that these elements contribute significantly to the charm and immersion of the game. The blend of cheerful music and lively character voices creates a welcoming environment, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game that many players will appreciate.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "My Time at Sandrock" is largely praised for enhancing character interactions and immersion, with unique accents that fit the game's vibe. Critics highlight its contribution to the overall experience but note inconsistencies in performance quality and the lack of Italian voice options for secondary characters. While it adds charm, there’s room for improvement in future updates or sequels.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "My Time at Sandrock" has received a largely positive reception from critics, with many highlighting its contribution to the game's immersive experience. Reviewers from NintendoWorldReport and Pure Nintendo noted that the voiced dialogue enhances the connection players have with the characters, making the interactions feel more engaging. Pocket Tactics praised the voice acting for fitting the characters well, particularly appreciating the over-the-top accents that align with the game's setting. Siliconera echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the voice acting adds enjoyment to character interactions. Additionally, Universo Nintendo pointed out the uniqueness of each character's voice, enhancing the overall experience, while IGN Spain noted the inclusion of dual English and Chinese voice acting, catering to a broader audience. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the voice acting. TouchArcade described the voice acting as "sufficient" but not particularly remarkable, suggesting a lack of standout performances. Vooks commented that the voice acting "leaves something to be desired in places," indicating inconsistencies in quality. RPGamer further elaborated on this inconsistency, stating that while some characters performed well, others sounded stilted, which detracted from the game's immersion. SpazioGames mentioned the absence of Italian voice acting for secondary characters, highlighting a gap in localization that could affect the experience for Italian-speaking players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in "My Time at Sandrock" significantly enhances the game's character interactions and immersion, there are areas that could benefit from improvement. Most reviewers agree that the voice acting adds life to the characters, with many praising the unique voices that contribute to the game's charm. However, the inconsistencies in quality and the absence of certain language options have been noted as areas for potential enhancement. Critics like Screen Rant and TheSixthAxis affirm the positive impact of voice acting, while others like RPGamer and TouchArcade remind us that there is room for growth in future updates or sequels.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock shines on PC and PS5, offering solid performance with minor glitches, but the Nintendo Switch version is plagued by severe technical issues, making it nearly unplayable. While the Xbox Series X has some performance hiccups, there's optimism for fixes in future updates across all platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech 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 technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of My Time at Sandrock across different gaming platforms, it is evident that there are some positives to note, particularly for the PC and PS5 versions. Reviewers such as Screen Rant and TheSixthAxis highlighted that the PC version performs well overall, despite some minor graphical pop-ins. The PS5 version, while not without its issues, was described by RPGamer as having only minor bugs and hiccups that do not significantly detract from gameplay. Additionally, IGN Spain noted that the Xbox Series X version has occasional performance issues but suggested that these could be addressed with future patches, indicating some level of optimism regarding improvements. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version received overwhelmingly negative feedback from critics. CGMagazine described the performance as "abysmal," citing constant low frame rates and rendering issues. Other reviewers, such as Hey Poor Player and Nintendo Life, echoed these sentiments, pointing out severe optimization problems, including stuttering, long loading times, and graphical pop-ins. The Switch version's technical shortcomings appear to be a significant barrier to an enjoyable gaming experience, with critics like Pure Nintendo and Siliconera noting the detrimental impact of bugs and display issues on gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that My Time at Sandrock struggles significantly on the Nintendo Switch, with nearly all reviews highlighting severe technical issues that hinder the experience. In contrast, the PC and PS5 versions seem to offer a more stable performance, albeit with some minor glitches and bugs that are expected to be resolved with updates. The optimism expressed by some reviewers, such as TouchArcade regarding the Switch's optimization and IGN Spain's acknowledgment of potential fixes for the Xbox version, suggests that while the game currently faces challenges, there is hope for improvement in future patches across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

My Time at Sandrock boasts strong replay value with its vast content, engaging gameplay, and features like relationship-building and seasonal events, appealing to fans of crafting and exploration. Critics praise its depth, suggesting hundreds of hours of potential fun. However, some express concerns about player fatigue, lack of clear goals, and the game's uniqueness, leading to mixed feelings about replayability. While it captivates many, it may not be for everyone.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of critics regarding the replay value of My Time at Sandrock are largely positive, highlighting the game's extensive content and engaging gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and RPGamer, emphasize the nearly endless loop of tasks and activities, which can lead to significant replayability for players who enjoy exploring different aspects of the game. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and Pure Nintendo also note the satisfying gameplay loop and the potential for players to immerse themselves in building relationships and exploring the game world, suggesting that the game can provide dozens of hours of entertainment if it captures the player's interest. Additionally, the inclusion of seasonal events, mini-games, and a romance system, as mentioned by Pocket Tactics and SpazioGames, further enhances the game's appeal, making it a rich experience for fans of the genre. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. CGMagazine expresses a lack of desire to return to the game due to its issues, indicating that not all players may find the experience compelling enough for multiple playthroughs. Nintendo Life also suggests that while the game has open-ended gameplay, there are better alternatives available, hinting at a potential lack of uniqueness that could deter players from replaying. Furthermore, some critics, like Movies Games and Tech, point out that the absence of a clear goal might affect long-term engagement, which could lead to player fatigue over time. This sentiment is echoed by ZTGD, who mentions that the overwhelming nature of choices may complicate how players approach replaying the game. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that My Time at Sandrock offers a wealth of content and engaging gameplay that can encourage replayability, particularly for those who appreciate crafting, relationship-building, and exploration. Critics like IGN and TheXboxHub highlight the various activities and quests available, which can keep players engaged for hundreds of hours. However, the mixed opinions regarding the game's issues and potential lack of clear direction indicate that while many players may find replay value, others might not feel compelled to return. As such, the game appears to cater well to fans of the genre who enjoy extensive content, but it may not resonate with everyone equally.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment surrounding "My Time at Sandrock," several positive aspects emerge from the reviews. Many critics highlight the game's engaging gameplay and charming world, with reviewers from GameGrin and Screen Rant praising it as a "must-have" for fans of the genre due to its compelling story and unique characters. The game is also noted for its extensive content and improvements over its predecessor, as seen in the reviews from IGN and XBLA Fans, who commend the engaging gameplay and various activities available. The charming aesthetics and satisfying gameplay loop are recurring themes, with critics like NintendoWorldReport and ZTGD emphasizing the game's engrossing nature and the wealth of content it offers. However, the reviews are not without their criticisms, particularly regarding technical issues. Many critics, including CGMagazine and Digitally Downloaded, express disappointment with the performance on the Nintendo Switch, citing severe technical problems that detract from the overall experience. Hey Poor Player describes the Switch version as a "buggy mess," while Pocket Tactics suggests players opt for the PC version instead. Critics consistently mention the lack of optimization and innovation, with Nintendo Life pointing out that the game does little to distinguish itself from others in the farm sim genre. These concerns indicate a significant hurdle for players considering the game, especially on less powerful hardware. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that "My Time at Sandrock" has the potential to be a beloved title within the cozy game genre, but it is marred by technical flaws, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. While many reviewers appreciate the engaging gameplay and charming design, the performance issues and lack of polish have led to mixed recommendations. Critics like Pure Nintendo and Siliconera express hope for future improvements, indicating that while the game is enjoyable, it may not yet be ready for widespread endorsement. The sentiment is clear: the foundation is solid, but the execution needs refinement to truly shine.

TL;DR

"My Time at Sandrock" impresses with its engaging gameplay, charming world, and rich content, making it a must-play for cozy game fans. However, severe technical issues, especially on Nintendo Switch, hinder the experience, leading to mixed reviews. While the game shows promise, it requires significant polish before it can fully earn widespread acclaim.

MONSTER

Reviews

61 reviews found

GameGrin

Nov 1, 2023

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

The reviewer highly recommends My Time at Sandrock, stating that it is a phenomenal game for those who enjoy building, farming, and combat. The game offers additional features like mini-games, house customization, and dungeons. It is considered an excellent sequel to My Time At Portia.

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Twinfinite

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2023

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

My Time at Sandrock is highly praised for its improvements, entertaining content, and balance of gameplay activities. The reviewer believes it will be a practically flawless game once the glitches are fixed.

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Screen Rant

Nov 1, 2023

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

My Time at Sandrock is a must-have for any fan of the genre, with a compelling story, charming design, unique characters, and satisfying gameplay.

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Impulsegamer

Nov 20, 2023

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

My Time At Sandrock is described as a decent, easy-going life/building sim that can be enjoyable for players looking for a non-violent experience.

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IGN Italia

Nov 1, 2023

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

My Time at Sandrock is a good sequel that introduces enough changes to provide a familiar yet different and enjoyable experience.

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ZTGD

Nov 30, 2023

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

My Time at Sandrock is praised for its innovation in the cozy game genre, with a wealth of content and a charming aesthetic, making it a recommended experience.

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COGconnected

Nov 2, 2023

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

The game is praised for its relaxing and easy-going experience, improved UI and combat mechanics, and great multiplayer concepts. However, it is criticized for being a little too easy and the multiplayer needing polish.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Nov 3, 2023

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

Despite the technical issues, My Time At Sandrock is an engrossing game with a satisfying gameplay loop. The charming town and characters make it easy to get invested in the game.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2023

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

My Time at Sandrock is a rewarding and ambitious game that offers a lot of content and a warm and fuzzy experience.

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XBLA Fans

Xbox Series X

Dec 20, 2023

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

The game is highly recommended for its engaging gameplay, extensive content, and improved features over its predecessor.