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Night in the Woods

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Night in the Woods
Item: Night in the Woods
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Point & Click, Drama, Casual, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableFeb 21, 2017

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperInfinite Fall

Overview

Night In The Woods is an adventure game heavily focused on story, characters and exploration, with some platforming to get around town. Mae's a cat so the roofs and ledges and powerlines are all her playground, and she's not the only one up there by a long shot. You'll also be doing various activities and interacting with the world in different ways, getting to know the townspeople, hanging out with friends, exploring Possum Springs inside and out, and venturing into the surrounding areas.

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods is hailed for its heartfelt storytelling and rich character development, tackling themes like economic decline and mental health with wit and authenticity. Critics praise Mae Borowski's relatable journey, though some note narrative weaknesses, including a flat final act and slow pacing. Despite these issues, the game is celebrated as a standout in narrative-driven gaming, resonating with players through its exploration of friendship and adulthood. Overall, it’s a compelling experience that cements its significance in the indie gaming scene.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The narrative of Night in the Woods has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who commend its heartfelt storytelling and rich character development. Reviewers from publications like the Washington Post and IGN highlight the game's exploration of profound themes such as economic decline, existential crises, and the struggles of early adulthood. Critics like Pocket Gamer UK and Twinfinite appreciate how the story captures the nuances of personal and social issues, with Mae Borowski's journey resonating deeply with players. The dialogue is often noted for its wit and authenticity, as seen in The Digital Fix and GameSpot, who emphasize the relatable nature of the characters and their experiences. The game’s ability to balance humor with serious topics like mental health and depression is frequently mentioned, making it not only engaging but also thought-provoking. However, some reviewers have pointed out weaknesses in the narrative structure. For instance, We Got This Covered mentions that while the main story picks up, it ultimately falls flat in the final act, suggesting a lack of resolution or depth in the conclusion. Additionally, InsideGamer.nl notes that the game starts slowly and may lack a sense of urgency, which could deter some players from fully engaging with the story. Critics like Metro GameCentral and CGMagazine also express that while the overarching plot has its moments, it can sometimes veer into silliness, overshadowing the grounded life stories of the characters. These critiques indicate that while the narrative is compelling, it may not resonate with everyone equally. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Night in the Woods as a standout example of narrative-driven gaming. Critics like PC Gamer and GamingTrend encapsulate the game's essence, highlighting its ability to capture the complexities of modern life and relationships with genuine heart. The game’s exploration of themes such as friendship, mental health, and the challenges of adulthood resonates with a broad audience, making it a relatable experience for many players. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and narrative resolution, the overall sentiment is that Night in the Woods offers a rich, engaging story that leaves a lasting impact, solidifying its place as a significant title in the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods shines with its engaging narrative and charming exploration, praised for its unique blend of adventure and mini-games that enhance replayability. Critics celebrate its immersive character interactions but note flaws in platforming mechanics that can feel clunky and simplistic. While the gameplay has its drawbacks, the game's emotional depth makes it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Night in the Woods has been largely praised for its engaging narrative and exploration elements, with many critics highlighting the game's unique blend of adventure and mini-games. COGconnected commends the game for its 2D adventure/platforming core and the choose-your-own-adventure style that allows players to affect relationships and outcomes, enhancing replayability. Critics like Game Informer and TrueAchievements emphasize the enjoyable exploration of Possum Springs, where players can interact with various characters and partake in amusing mini-games that break up the narrative. IGN and Nintendo Life also note that the platforming and mini-games add a layer of fun and variety to the gameplay, contributing to an overall charming experience that resonates with players. However, the gameplay is not without its flaws, as many reviewers have pointed out issues with the platforming mechanics and controls. DualShockers and GameSpot mention that the platforming elements can be finicky and tedious, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Metro GameCentral echo this sentiment, stating that some platforming sections can feel clunky and lead to frustration. Additionally, some reviewers, such as God is a Geek and Polygon, criticize the gameplay for being overly simplistic or lacking depth, with a focus on dialogue and exploration rather than more traditional gaming mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Night in the Woods offers a unique and immersive narrative experience, its gameplay mechanics are a mixed bag. Many appreciate the exploration and character interactions, as noted by PC Gamer and The Digital Fix, but the finicky platforming and occasional pacing issues, as highlighted by multiple reviewers, can hinder the experience. Despite these drawbacks, the game is recognized for its charm and emotional depth, making it a worthwhile experience for those who appreciate narrative-driven games.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods wows with its vibrant, stylistic graphics that enhance the emotional depth of its narrative. Critics praise its colorful, atmospheric art and unique character designs, which make the town of Possum Springs feel alive. While some note the simple art style might not appeal to everyone and could overshadow deeper themes, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive—its visuals powerfully resonate with players and elevate the game’s exploration of human insecurities. This title is a visual triumph that captivates both critics and gamers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

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 Night in the Woods have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who frequently highlight the game's vibrant and stylistic aesthetics. Reviewers from COGconnected and DualShockers commend the game for its "vibrant and creepy visuals" and "beautifully imagined" settings, respectively. The charming and evocative nature of the art style is noted by GameSpot, which emphasizes how the visuals enhance the narrative impact. Many critics, such as Game Informer and InsideGamer.nl, describe the graphics as colorful and atmospheric, with unique character designs that resonate with players. The use of lighting and subtle animations, as pointed out by Hardcore Gamer and New Game Network, further enriches the immersive experience, making the town of Possum Springs feel alive and relatable. While the majority of reviews are positive, a few critics mention aspects that could be perceived as drawbacks. Some reviewers, such as GamingTrend, note that the art style, while effective, is simple and may not appeal to everyone. Additionally, although the game is praised for its charm, a few critics hint that the cartoonish visuals may initially mask the deeper, more serious themes of the narrative, as noted by IGN and XBLA Fans. This juxtaposition of a lighthearted aesthetic with weighty subject matter may create a disconnect for some players, potentially leading to mixed feelings about the overall presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the graphics and visual design of Night in the Woods being described as a significant strength of the game. The art style is consistently praised for its ability to blend charm with emotional depth, allowing players to connect with the characters and story on a profound level. Critics like Vandal and Nintendo Life appreciate how the visuals contribute to the narrative's exploration of human insecurities, while others, such as PC Gamer and The Digital Fix, highlight the attention to detail that enhances the game's atmosphere. In summary, Night in the Woods stands out as a visually stunning title that effectively marries its art style with its thematic explorations, earning it a well-deserved place in the hearts of both critics and players alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods boasts a praised atmospheric soundtrack that blends diverse musical styles, enhancing gameplay and emotional storytelling. Critics laud its evocative sound design and playful rhythm mini-games, though some note issues with audio balance and the lack of voice acting. Overall, the music is deemed essential to the game’s immersive experience, firmly establishing it as a standout title in sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

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 Night in the Woods have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising the game's evocative and atmospheric soundtrack. Critics like COGconnected and IGN highlight the diverse musical influences, noting the synth-heavy tracks that blend elements of post-rock, dream pop, and chillwave, creating a rich auditory experience. Game Informer and Hardcore Gamer commend the rhythm mini-games, particularly the band practice sequences, which add a playful dimension reminiscent of Guitar Hero. The music not only enhances the gameplay but also effectively complements the game's themes of nostalgia, childlike wonder, and the complexities of friendship, as noted by critics from GameSpot and GamingTrend. The overall consensus is that the soundtrack is not just a background element but a crucial part of the storytelling, contributing to the emotional depth of the narrative. Despite the largely favorable reviews, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music. A few critics, such as NintendoWorldReport, mention that the music can sometimes be soft and hard to hear, suggesting that the audio balance may not always be optimal. Additionally, while the lack of voice acting is seen as a missed opportunity by Hardcore Gamer, it is acknowledged that the original score compensates for this absence by enhancing the game's emotional atmosphere. Critics like TrueAchievements and Xbox Achievements also note that while the soundtrack is fantastic, the absence of spoken dialogue may detract from the emotional resonance that could have been achieved with voice acting. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods excels in sound design and music, creating an immersive experience that resonates with players. The majority of reviews highlight the soundtrack's ability to evoke emotions and enhance the game's atmosphere, with notable mentions of standout tracks and the effective use of silence for emotional impact. Critics from various platforms, including Game Informer, GameSpot, and IGN, reflect a shared appreciation for the game's musical composition, which is seen as a significant contributor to its success. In summary, while there are minor critiques regarding audio balance and the absence of voice acting, the positive sentiments overwhelmingly dominate, establishing Night in the Woods as a standout title in terms of sound design and music.

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

Night in the Woods sees mixed reviews on technical performance. The Nintendo Switch version is praised for smooth gameplay but criticized for frame drops and long loading times, especially in handheld mode. In contrast, the PC version is generally more stable and well-received, though it also faces some loading time complaints. Overall, players' experiences vary significantly by platform.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Night in the Woods has garnered a variety of opinions from critics across different gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, several reviewers, including Cubed3 and Nintendo Life, praised the game for running smoothly in both docked and handheld modes, with Cubed3 noting a consistent 60fps. NintendoWorldReport echoed this sentiment, stating that the game performs well in both modes. The PC version also received positive feedback, with critics like New Game Network highlighting its technical stability, brief loading screens, and absence of significant technical issues, making for a seamless gameplay experience. However, there are notable concerns regarding the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch. Critics such as God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer pointed out issues like frame drops and longer loading times, particularly in handheld mode. GameCritics acknowledged extended load times compared to other platforms, while Pocket Gamer UK mentioned performance issues, including dodgy framerates in docked mode. On the PC side, PC Gamer noted that while the game is generally stable, the long loading times between areas can be frustrating, indicating that there are still some areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed but generally favorable view of the technical performance of Night in the Woods. While the Nintendo Switch version has received commendations for its smooth gameplay, it is marred by performance issues that some critics found significant, such as frame drops and longer loading times. In contrast, the PC version is viewed more positively, with fewer reported issues, although some critics still pointed out that loading times could be improved. This divergence highlights the varying experiences players may have depending on their chosen platform, with the Switch version being a bit more inconsistent in performance compared to the more stable PC experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods shines in replayability with its branching paths, rich character backstories, and impactful player choices, encouraging multiple playthroughs. Critics praise its narrative depth and engaging mini-games but note limitations like the lack of a new game plus option and single save slots, which can hinder exploration. Overall, it offers a rewarding experience for players willing to delve deeper into its emotional storytelling and diverse interactions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Night in the Woods highlight numerous positive aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and DualShockers, emphasize the game's branching paths, character backstories, and the impact of player choices on the narrative. This design encourages players to engage in multiple playthroughs to fully experience the diverse interactions and friendships available. GameSpot and GamingTrend also note that the game’s individual interpretation and subtle narrative details enhance replayability, allowing players to uncover deeper insights into the characters and their stories. Additionally, the inclusion of mini-games and side activities, particularly highlighted by Hardcore Gamer and Nintendo Life, adds layers of content that reward exploration and experimentation. However, some critics point out certain limitations that may hinder the overall replay value of Night in the Woods. For instance, We Got This Covered mentions the absence of a new game plus option, which could have provided a more robust replay experience. Vandal notes that while the game offers a reasonable amount of replay value, it may feel slightly repetitive towards the end. Furthermore, RPG Fan raises concerns about the single save slot per playthrough, which restricts players from easily revisiting specific choices or paths without starting a new game entirely. These aspects suggest that while there is considerable replay potential, certain design choices may limit the ease with which players can explore the game's content. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods possesses a solid foundation for replayability through its engaging narrative, character interactions, and additional content. Critics like TrueAchievements and CGMagazine reinforce this sentiment by highlighting the various achievements and side stories that encourage multiple playthroughs. While there are some criticisms regarding pacing and the lack of certain features, the majority of reviewers agree that the game offers a rich experience that invites players to return for a deeper understanding of its world and characters. This balance of strengths and weaknesses ultimately positions Night in the Woods as a game that rewards exploration and emotional investment, making it a worthwhile endeavor for those willing to revisit its charming yet complex narrative.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Night in the Woods" among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its rich narrative depth, relatable characters, and emotional resonance. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and GameCritics highlight the game's ability to capture the essence of a generation, while others like GamingTrend and DualShockers commend the engaging story and beautifully crafted art style. Critics consistently note the game's strong character development, with titles such as "a poignant and relatable coming-of-age tale" (Hardcore Gamer) and "a superbly written rollercoaster of emotions" (Twinfinite) underscoring the emotional impact the game has on players. The game is also recognized for its unique exploration of themes such as friendship, insecurity, and the struggles of adulthood, making it a compelling experience for those who appreciate narrative-driven gameplay. Despite the widespread acclaim, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses, primarily concerning pacing and gameplay mechanics. Many reviews, including those from IGN and Vandal, mention that the pacing can be uneven, with some sections feeling sluggish or drawn out. Additionally, gameplay issues such as repetitive dream sequences and a lack of challenging puzzles were noted by critics like Windows Central and Hardcore Gamer, who felt these elements detracted from the overall experience. Some reviewers, such as Polygon and GameSpot, also criticized the gameplay for being dull at times, indicating that while the narrative shines, the mechanics may not engage all players equally. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Night in the Woods" is a highly recommended title that excels in storytelling and character development, despite some gameplay flaws. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for its artistic value and emotional depth, with critics like PC Gamer and Guardian acknowledging the game's ability to resonate with players on a personal level. Overall, "Night in the Woods" stands out as a significant indie title that successfully combines humor and authenticity, making it a must-play for fans of narrative adventures, as echoed by multiple reviewers across various platforms.

TL;DR

"Night in the Woods" garners rave reviews for its rich storytelling, relatable characters, and emotional depth, capturing the essence of a generation. Critics hail it as a poignant coming-of-age tale with strong character development, despite noting uneven pacing and gameplay flaws like repetitive mechanics. Ultimately, it’s a must-play indie gem for narrative enthusiasts, blending humor and authenticity brilliantly.

MONSTER

Reviews

109 reviews found

100

PSNStores

PlayStation 4

Mar 1, 2017

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

Night in the Woods delivers a powerful message and covers a range of topics, resonating with the reviewer.

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100

DarkStation

Mar 23, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is highly praised for its relatable story, beautiful art, and cohesive experience.

100

PC PowerPlay

May 23, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is a highly recommended game that explores themes of escapism, friendship, and the complexities of life.

100

Guardian

Mar 14, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is described as a brilliant game that easily sits next to other modern day classics. It is not a feel-good experience, but it never feels malicious. Mae is not a likeable character, but her story is narratively interesting.

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RPG Fan

Mar 6, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is described as a fantastic game, offering a bittersweet tribute to slackerdom with deep characterizations, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals.

COGconnected

PlayStation 4

Mar 13, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is a socially relevant, interesting, moving, hilarious, and fun experience. It may not appeal to everyone, but fans of adventure, Metroidvania, sandbox, 2D platformer, or point-and-click games should definitely play it.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 4

Apr 14, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is praised for its fantastic characters, engaging story, beautiful art style, and soundtrack. While it has some flaws like frustrating dream sequences, the game's strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a highly recommended experience.

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Washington Post

Mar 2, 2017

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

The review overall praises the game, mentioning its length as a healthy artistic strategy and stating that the reviewer found it affecting. It also mentions some online complaints about linearity and length, but dismisses them as not detracting from the game's artistic value.

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Push Square

PlayStation 4

Mar 5, 2017

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

Night in the Woods is a truly magnificent adventure game with exceptional writing, relationships, art style, and music. It stands out as one of the best Kickstarter releases.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Feb 4, 2018

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

Night In The Woods is a highly recommended indie title on the Nintendo Switch. It offers a unique and enchanting experience with its captivating story, memorable characters, and immersive soundtrack.

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