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MONSTER

Neva

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

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Simulation, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player

AvailableOct 15, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperNomada Studio

Overview

The game tells the story of a young woman who forges a bond with a wolf cub that grows and matures over time. The pair will help each other on a journey through a decaying world. Neva features platforming, puzzles and combat, along with handcrafted cinematics, "haunting music" and a minimalist user interface. Based on the trailer and Nomada's track record, it should be a feast for the eyes too.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Neva's narrative has received widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, exploring themes of loss, growth, and the bond between Alba and Neva amidst environmental decay. Critics praise its visual storytelling and haunting soundtrack, highlighting genuine emotional engagement. However, some reviews point out flaws like pacing issues and melodrama, suggesting the emotional impact may not resonate universally. Overall, while not perfect, Neva's story is seen as ambitious and poignant, making it a notable experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The story of Neva has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its emotional depth and thematic richness. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and Softpedia have noted the narrative's exploration of loss, growth, and rebirth, emphasizing its emotional manipulation that feels genuine rather than forced. Critics like Impulsegamer and Windows Central appreciate the story's focus on the bond between Alba and Neva, as they navigate the trials of parenthood and environmental decay. The visual storytelling, complemented by a haunting soundtrack, has also been recognized as a powerful vehicle for conveying the game's themes, with many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Digital Spy, commending the raw emotion that resonates throughout the narrative. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Some critics have pointed out flaws in the execution of the story, with GameSpew and Player 2 noting that while the narrative tugs at the heartstrings, it may lack the emotional impact it strives for. The sentiment of melodrama and unsubtlety was echoed by Digitally Downloaded, who felt the emotional weight was somewhat diminished by its overt presentation. Additionally, New Game Network criticized the pacing and suggested that some emotional beats felt forced, indicating a divide in how effectively the story resonates with different players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the story of Neva is emotionally engaging and thematically rich, it is not without its shortcomings. The majority of reviews lean towards a positive reception, with many praising the heartfelt relationship between Alba and Neva and the poignant themes of growth and resilience. Critics like GINX TV and Noisy Pixel encapsulate this sentiment, describing the story as beautiful and important, despite some acknowledging its potential pitfalls in pacing and emotional delivery. Ultimately, Neva's narrative stands out for its ambition and emotional resonance, making it a noteworthy experience for players, even if it may not fully satisfy everyone.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Neva impresses with its elegant platforming and engaging combat, winning over critics for its thoughtful level design and satisfying gameplay blend of puzzles and action. However, it faces criticism for repetitiveness and a lack of combat complexity, with visibility issues during platforming also noted. While it offers a charming experience, some areas need improvement. Overall, it’s a solid pick for genre fans, boasting emotional depth and potential despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Neva has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who highlight its elegant platforming mechanics and engaging combat system. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and The New York Times appreciate the game's level design, noting that it elevates the experience beyond that of a typical adventure title. Critics like Nintendo Life and Windows Central commend the well-rounded combat system and the integration of various gameplay elements, including puzzles and platforming challenges, which create a satisfying gameplay loop. The evolution of gameplay mechanics as the protagonist matures, as pointed out by Softpedia and Game Informer, adds depth and emotional resonance to the experience, making the gameplay feel rewarding. However, several reviewers have pointed out notable shortcomings in Neva's gameplay. GameSpew and Digital Trends mention that the gameplay can feel repetitive at times, with periods of uneventful traversal that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Player 2 and PCGamesN also express concerns about the combat mechanics, suggesting that while they are straightforward, they lack the complexity and challenge that some players might desire. Additionally, TheSixthAxis highlights issues with visibility during platforming sections, which can lead to frustrating moments for players. Overall, there seems to be a consensus that while the game has solid mechanics, there are areas where it could improve in terms of challenge and pacing. The overall sentiment among critics is that Neva offers a charming and enjoyable gameplay experience, though it is not without its flaws. The combination of platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving elements is generally well-received, with many praising the fluidity and responsiveness of the controls. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Gaming Nexus emphasize the balance between action and strategy, while others like Gamer Escape and GINX TV appreciate the evolving nature of the gameplay. Despite some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and simplicity, the consensus leans towards a favorable view of Neva, with many reviewers acknowledging its potential and emotional depth, suggesting that it is a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Neva is hailed as a visual masterpiece, with a stunning watercolor style and evolving environments that captivate players, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli. Critics praise its artistic detail and immersive storytelling, but some note issues with visibility and clarity due to camera angles and lighting. Overall, Neva impresses as a remarkable achievement in gaming visuals, despite minor drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Neva have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many describing it as a masterpiece. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and Digitally Downloaded emphasize the game's watercolor impressionism style, which creates a fantastical world filled with vibrant colors and surreal landscapes. Critics such as GameSpew and Player 2 highlight the varied environments that shift with the seasons, providing a constant visual treat that enhances the overall experience. Softpedia and The New York Times note the stunning evolution of visuals, transitioning from soft pastels to bold tones, reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. The intricate attention to detail, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected, further enriches the artistic direction, making the game a visual feast that immerses players in its captivating world. Despite the overwhelming praise, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks related to the game's visual design. TheSixthAxis raised concerns about visibility issues stemming from camera angles and excessive lighting effects, which could detract from the player's experience. Additionally, PCGamesN noted that while the intricate environments are stunning, they sometimes suffer from a lack of visual clarity, leading to characters becoming lost in the backgrounds. These critiques suggest that while the overall aesthetic is breathtaking, there are moments where the execution may hinder the player's engagement with the visuals. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Neva stands out as a visually stunning game that successfully combines breathtaking art with emotional storytelling. The majority of reviewers, including Game Informer and GamingBolt, agree that the game’s graphics and visual design are a significant highlight, creating a rich and immersive experience that resonates deeply with players. With its masterful art direction and attention to detail, Neva is celebrated as a remarkable achievement in video game visuals, despite minor criticisms that do not overshadow its overall impact.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of "Neva" are critically acclaimed for their emotional depth and atmospheric impact, with Berlinist's haunting score enhancing the game's storytelling. Reviewers highlight its brilliance and immersive qualities, though some note it may not overshadow visuals or gameplay. Overall, the soundtrack is deemed essential for deepening players' emotional connections, making it a standout element in the game's success.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Neva" have garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics, highlighting its emotional depth and atmospheric qualities. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and GameSpew, praised the score by Berlinist for its soft piano and sweeping strings, which enhance the emotional impact of the story. Player 2 noted how the soundtrack amplifies the environments, effectively escalating during conflicts and emotional moments. Critics like Softpedia and Nintendo Life emphasized the haunting and enchanting qualities of the music, which dynamically shifts to amplify emotions and create a unique atmosphere. Overall, the soundtrack is frequently described as brilliant, emotive, and immersive, contributing significantly to the player's experience. Despite the largely favorable reception, some critics pointed out minor shortcomings. For instance, GameMAG mentioned that while the music serves as a pleasant background for the emotional journey, it does not take center stage and may not be as memorable as the visuals or gameplay. Additionally, while many reviews celebrated the emotional resonance of the soundtrack, a few critics, such as GameGrin, noted that the absence of voice acting could lead to a reliance on the music and sound effects to convey emotions, which might not resonate with all players. However, these critiques are relatively sparse compared to the overall acclaim. The consensus among critics is clear: the sound design and music of "Neva" are standout elements that significantly enhance the game's emotional storytelling and atmosphere. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Hey Poor Player highlighted the poignant and devastating qualities of the score, which effectively ties to the narrative's themes and key moments. Overall, the music is seen as a crucial component that not only complements the visuals but also deepens the player's emotional connection to the story and characters. With the majority of reviewers expressing high praise, it is evident that the sound design and music are integral to the overall success of "Neva."

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Neva" delivers a mixed technical performance across platforms. PS5 and Xbox Series X shine with polished gameplay, but face minor issues like visibility and checkpoint problems. Nintendo Switch maintains a stable 60 FPS, though occasional frame drops occur. PC offers smooth visuals but struggles with hitbox glitches. Critics laud its artistic design and emotional depth, yet all platforms show room for improvement in technical execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Neva" across various gaming platforms presents a mixed bag of experiences, with notable positives. On the PlayStation 5, Digitally Downloaded highlights the game's precise control and careful design, which contribute to a polished gameplay experience. Similarly, Impulsegamer reports stable performance on the Xbox Series X, with only minor checkpoint issues during intense sequences. On the Nintendo Switch, Nintenduo praises the game for maintaining a stable 60 frames per second, while Nintendo Life acknowledges that minor frame drops occur during hectic moments but still finds the performance acceptable. On PC, Game Informer reports no technical issues, suggesting a smooth experience, and PCGamesN commends the elaborate animations that enhance the emotional depth of the game. However, there are several negatives that critics have pointed out for each platform. On the PS5, TheSixthAxis mentions visibility issues and poor gameplay experiences due to problematic camera angles and lighting effects, detracting from the overall immersion. For the Nintendo Switch, while the performance is generally stable, Nintendo Life points out the presence of minor frame drops during busy scenes, which could impact gameplay fluidity. On PC, multiple critics, including Noisy Pixel and GamingBolt, highlight issues with hitboxes during boss battles, which can lead to frustration and compromise the gameplay experience. New Game Network also notes limited control options and a lack of demanding hardware requirements, suggesting a less optimized experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while "Neva" showcases strong technical performance in terms of design and animation, it is not without its flaws across platforms. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions seem to offer a more stable experience, albeit with some minor issues, while the Nintendo Switch version manages to maintain a commendable frame rate despite occasional drops. The PC version, while visually impressive, suffers from hitbox issues that can hinder gameplay. Critics generally appreciate the game's artistic direction and emotional resonance, but the technical shortcomings across platforms suggest that further refinement could enhance the overall experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics have mixed views on Neva's replay value. While some praise its emotional depth and collectibles that invite multiple playthroughs, others deem it too short and lacking in diverse challenges, viewing it as a potential "one-and-done" experience. Ultimately, its brief playtime and limited content may overshadow its appealing elements, leading to concerns about long-term engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the replay value of Neva reveal a nuanced perspective among critics, highlighting several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers appreciate the emotional and narrative depth of the game, suggesting that this can motivate players to engage in a second playthrough. For instance, Digital Chumps notes that the mystery woven into the game's world makes a second playthrough "more tantalizing and momentous." Additionally, Player 2 points out that the presence of collectibles and hidden items offers some replay value, while GameGrin emphasizes that different modes and challenges encourage exploration and appreciation of the game's scenery. Critics like XboxEra also mention the inclusion of two playstyles and optional puzzles as factors that enhance replayability, indicating that there are elements that can keep players returning to the game. Conversely, several critics express concerns regarding the game's overall replay value, primarily due to its brevity and lack of substantial content. Softpedia remarks that Neva lacks significant replay value in terms of challenges, while COGconnected echoes this sentiment by criticizing the game for being short and potentially limiting its longevity. Windows Central highlights that the game's completion time of under five hours may hinder deeper exploration of its mechanics, and PCGamesN suggests that it is likely to be a "one-and-done experience" for many players. This sentiment is reinforced by the opinions of other critics who feel that the game, while engaging, does not offer enough variety to warrant multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a general acknowledgment of Neva's emotional storytelling and visual appeal but a shared concern regarding its replay value. While some, like The Indie Informer, advocate for the game's high replay potential due to its emotional impact, many others, including Gamer Escape and New Game Network, suggest that the game may not provide enough incentive for players to return after completing it. The combination of a short playtime and a lack of diverse challenges seems to overshadow the positive aspects of collectibles and alternate playstyles, leading to a conclusion that while Neva has its merits, its replay value may be limited for a significant portion of the player base.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Neva is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its stunning visuals, emotional depth, and captivating storytelling. Digital Chumps describes it as a "true masterpiece," highlighting the game's artistry and movement. Similarly, Digitally Downloaded notes its "heartfelt and evocative experience," emphasizing the emotional impact that resonates with players. Critics like Impulsegamer and Nintendo Life also commend the game for its beautiful presentation, engaging soundtrack, and the strong emotional connection it fosters between characters. The game's ability to evoke tears and deliver a touching narrative is a common theme, with many reviewers recommending it as a must-play for fans of emotionally driven games. However, despite the acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that prevent Neva from achieving greatness. GameSpew mentions that while the visuals and story shine, the basic gameplay and occasional dull moments detract from the overall experience. Player 2 echoes this sentiment by discussing gameplay bloat, which diminishes the impact of the game's emotional elements. Others, like TheSixthAxis and Digital Trends, highlight issues with pacing and repetitive gameplay, suggesting that while the game is visually and narratively compelling, it lacks innovation in its mechanics. These criticisms indicate that while Neva excels in many areas, it is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics is that Neva is a highly recommended title, particularly for those who appreciate indie games with emotional narratives. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and The Indie Informer, categorize it as one of the best indie games of 2024, praising its artistic merit and emotional storytelling. Despite its shortcomings, the game's ability to create a memorable and touching experience resonates strongly with players. As noted by critics like Gaming Nexus and Hey Poor Player, Neva is seen as a significant journey worth exploring, making it a standout title in the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Neva garners near-universal acclaim for its breathtaking visuals, emotional depth, and compelling storytelling, often hailed as a "masterpiece" and a must-play for fans of indie games. However, criticisms about basic gameplay, pacing issues, and lack of innovation suggest it falls short of greatness. Despite these flaws, the game remains a standout title in 2024's indie scene, resonating with players through its poignant narrative.

MONSTER

Reviews

156 reviews found

100

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

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

Neva is a touching meditation and thrilling adventure, a true masterpiece that captures depth in stunning movement and artistry.

100

Try Hard Guides

Oct 16, 2024

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

A must-play game with stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and a memorable experience.

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100

The Indie Informer

Oct 14, 2024

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

Highly recommended game that is destined to rank among the year's unrivaled titles, urging players to set aside other games and experience Neva.

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GameGrin

Oct 18, 2024

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

Neva is a stunning game that resonates with players through its emotional story, beautiful art, and immersive soundtrack. It is recommended for fans of platformers and those who enjoyed GRIS.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Oct 14, 2024

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

Beautifully crafted and deeply emotional game. Touching storytelling, breathtaking visuals, satisfying combat, and lasting impression. A must-play for fans of emotional narratives and artistic games.

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GamingBolt

Oct 14, 2024

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

Neva is described as an essential journey for those who enjoyed Gris, offering meticulously crafted gameplay, stunning visuals, tight combat, and an evolving bond between Alba and Neva. A confident yet compassionate meditation worth players' time.

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Game Informer

Mar 25, 2025

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

Neva is praised as one of the best indie games of 2024, combining a moving narrative, elegant presentation, and enjoyable gameplay.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Oct 22, 2024

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

Neva is a triumphant and emotional video game that surpasses Gris, especially for pet owners, with a great addition of combat and emotional resonance.

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Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2024

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

Neva is a beautiful, heartfelt, and evocative experience that may lack subtlety but succeeds in delivering a powerful emotional impact. It is a game that aims to make players cry and achieves that goal effectively.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Oct 14, 2024

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

Neva is a memorable, emotional, and beautiful adventure that delivers a thoroughly engrossing platforming experience with incredible visuals, moving soundtrack, and satisfying gameplay, making it a game that shouldn't be missed despite minor performance issues and short runtime.

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