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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

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Night in the Woods has garnered widespread acclaim for its relatable and profound narrative, addressing themes like mental health and small-town struggles with humor and heart. Critics praise its character authenticity and exploration of modern life's complexities, though some note weaknesses in the final act and a disconnect between personal stories and broader plot revelations. Despite these critiques, the game’s emotional depth and character arcs shine through, making it a resonant experience for players navigating the challenges of early adulthood. Overall, it's a poignant blend of humor and serious themes, marking it as a standout title.

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 overall sentiment regarding the story of Night in the Woods is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its depth and relatability. Reviewers such as PC Gamer and IGN highlight the game's exploration of heavy themes like mental health, adulthood, and the struggles of small-town life, all conveyed through heartfelt writing and humor. Critics like The Digital Fix and Metro GameCentral appreciate the engaging narrative that follows Mae Borowski's journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the authenticity of the characters and their experiences. The game’s ability to tackle complex issues such as economic decline and existential crises resonates with many players, making it a poignant reflection of modern life, as noted by Washington Post and TrueAchievements. Despite the generally favorable reviews, some critics pointed out areas where the story could have been stronger. For instance, We Got This Covered mentions that while the main plot picks up, it ultimately falls flat in the final act, suggesting a lack of resolution or payoff that might leave some players wanting more. Similarly, Metro GameCentral describes the wider plot as somewhat silly once the town's secrets are revealed, indicating a disconnect between the grounded personal stories and the overarching narrative. Critics like CGMagazine also note that while the central focus is satisfying, it can overshadow the more relatable life stories of the protagonist and her friends, suggesting that the balance between personal and broader themes could be improved. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods delivers a rich and engaging narrative that resonates with players on multiple levels. The game effectively captures the struggles of early adulthood and the complexities of relationships, as highlighted by Game Informer and GamingTrend. While there are critiques regarding certain aspects of the plot's execution, the majority of reviewers agree that the story's emotional depth and character development make it a standout experience. Critics like God is a Geek and Pocket Gamer UK emphasize the game's ability to blend humor with serious themes, solidifying Night in the Woods as a meaningful exploration of life’s challenges that many players can relate to.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods impresses with its rich narrative and exploration, blending choices that affect relationships and replayability. Critics praise its leisurely pace and charming interactions, bolstered by fun mini-games. However, finicky platforming and simplistic mechanics frustrate some, while others find the pacing slow. Despite these drawbacks, its emotional depth and character-driven story make it a standout experience for those who prioritize narrative over gameplay complexity.

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 generally well-received by critics, who appreciate its unique blend of exploration, narrative depth, and interactive elements. Critics like COGconnected highlight the game's "choose-your-own-adventure" style, emphasizing how choices impact relationships and provide replayability through different character backstories. Game Informer and PC Gamer commend the leisurely pace of the game, which allows players to engage deeply with the town of Possum Springs and its inhabitants. The inclusion of mini-games, as noted by IGN and Cubed3, adds variety to the gameplay, offering enjoyable breaks from the narrative. Many reviewers, including Vandal and PSNStores, find the mix of light platforming and exploration to be charming and well-integrated into the storytelling. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay experience. DualShockers and GameSpot mention that the platforming elements can be finicky and occasionally tedious, leading to moments of frustration. This sentiment is echoed by Metro GameCentral, who finds the platforming sections irritating due to imprecise controls. Critics like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer note that the gameplay can feel simplistic, with some interactions lacking depth and variety, which may detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Pocket Gamer and Polygon, express concerns about pacing issues, indicating that the slower segments may not appeal to players seeking more action-oriented gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods offers a distinctive narrative-driven experience that prioritizes storytelling and character interaction over traditional gameplay mechanics. While many appreciate the exploration and mini-games as refreshing elements, the game’s reliance on light platforming and occasionally finicky controls has led to mixed feelings. Critics like New Game Network and RPG Fan affirm that the game excels in its character-driven narrative, making it a worthwhile experience despite its gameplay limitations. Ultimately, Night in the Woods stands out for its emotional depth and charm, resonating with players who value story and character over mechanical complexity.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods wows critics with its vibrant, stylistic graphics, praised for emotional depth and unique character designs. While some note minor issues like simplicity and longer load times on the Switch, the overall acclaim for its charm and storytelling shines through. This indie gem expertly blends whimsical visuals with serious themes, cementing its status as a standout title.

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 highlight the game's vibrant and stylistic presentation. Many reviewers, including COGconnected and DualShockers, commend the art style for its charm and emotional depth, with COGconnected noting its "Samurai Jack-like" aesthetics that effectively set the tone. The use of color is frequently praised, with Game Informer and Push Square emphasizing the atmospheric qualities of the graphics, which include breathtaking dreamscapes and a delightful palette that enhances the storytelling. Critics like InsideGamer.nl and Hardcore Gamer appreciate the unique anthropomorphic character designs, which blend humor and relatability, while others, such as Nintendo Life and PC Gamer, note the game's smooth animations and attention to detail that bring the world of Possum Springs to life. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics point out minor shortcomings in the visual presentation. While the art style is generally described as appealing, a few reviews, such as those from GameSpot and Xbox Achievements, mention that the simplicity of the graphics may not resonate with everyone, potentially leading to a perception of superficiality. Additionally, some critics, like GameCritics, note that the Switch port experiences slightly longer load times, which could detract from the overall visual experience. However, these criticisms are relatively few and do not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's artistic direction. The consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Night in the Woods excels in its graphics and visual design. Reviewers consistently highlight the game's ability to convey complex themes through its charming and colorful aesthetics, as noted by Vandal and TrueAchievements. The juxtaposition of its whimsical art style with serious narrative elements creates a unique and engaging experience that resonates with players. Overall, Night in the Woods is celebrated for its captivating visuals, which play a crucial role in enhancing the emotional depth and storytelling of the game, making it a standout title in the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods boasts an acclaimed soundtrack that enriches its emotional depth, blending post-rock, dream pop, and chillwave to evoke nostalgia and melancholy. Critics praise the engaging rhythm mini-games and subtle sound design, though some note the lack of voice acting and occasional audio softness as drawbacks. Overall, the music is a vital element that enhances both gameplay and narrative, solidifying its place as a standout feature of the game.

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 overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Night in the Woods is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game's soundtrack for its ability to enhance the emotional depth and atmosphere. Critics from platforms like COGconnected and Push Square highlighted the variety in the music, noting its synth-heavy tracks that blend elements of post-rock, dream pop, and chillwave, which effectively complement the game's themes. Game Informer and IGN echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the soundtrack captures a sense of childlike wonder while also weaving in nostalgia and melancholy. The rhythm mini-games, particularly the band practice segments, were also noted for their engaging design, reminiscent of Guitar Hero, which adds an interactive layer to the musical experience. Additionally, the use of silence and subtle sound design was acknowledged by several reviewers, including Vandal, who pointed out how it enhances the overall atmosphere without being overpowering. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics did mention certain drawbacks. A few noted that the lack of voice acting could detract from the emotional resonance of the narrative, as highlighted by Hardcore Gamer. Additionally, while the music was generally well-received, there were mentions of the soundtrack being soft or sometimes difficult to hear, as pointed out by NintendoWorldReport. This suggests that while the music is beautifully crafted, its subtlety may not resonate with all players, potentially leaving some moments less impactful than intended. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Night in the Woods are standout features that significantly contribute to the game's emotional landscape and immersive experience. With a majority of reviews praising the soundtrack for its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia, melancholy, and wonder, it is clear that the music serves as a vital component of the game's identity. Critics from various platforms, including GameSpot and GamingTrend, affirm that the music not only enhances the gameplay but also enriches the narrative, making it an integral part of the overall experience.

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 on Nintendo Switch runs smoothly at 60fps but suffers from frame drops and longer loading times, particularly in handheld mode, leading to mixed reviews. Critics praise its stability but note significant performance issues that detract from immersion. In contrast, the PC version is more consistently stable with fewer drawbacks, making it the better choice for a seamless experience.

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 on the Nintendo Switch has garnered a mixed but generally positive reception among critics. Reviewers such as Cubed3 and Nintendo Life highlight that the game runs smoothly, maintaining a consistent 60fps in both docked and handheld modes, which is commendable for a title on the Switch. Additionally, NintendoWorldReport echoes this sentiment, stating that the game performs well in both modes. Critics appreciate the game's ability to deliver a stable experience, which is crucial for a narrative-driven title where immersion is key. However, there are notable concerns regarding the technical performance on the Switch. Critics like God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer point out issues such as frame drops and longer loading times, particularly in handheld mode. GameCritics also mentions that while the game runs well overall, the extended load times can detract from the experience. Pocket Gamer UK further emphasizes performance issues, citing "dodgy framerates" in docked mode. These inconsistencies suggest that while the game can deliver a smooth experience, it is not without its technical pitfalls. In contrast, the PC version of Night in the Woods has received a more uniformly positive reception regarding its technical performance. New Game Network praises the game for its technical stability, noting brief loading screens and no significant issues during gameplay. However, PC Gamer does mention that long loading times between areas can be frustrating, indicating that there are minor drawbacks even on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Nintendo Switch version has some performance issues, it still manages to provide a generally enjoyable experience. The PC version, on the other hand, is seen as the superior option for players seeking a more stable and seamless gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Night in the Woods boasts strong replay value due to its rich narrative, character interactions, and impactful choices that keep players coming back for more. Critics praise the variety of paths, mini-games, and hidden stories that make each playthrough feel fresh. However, limitations like the lack of a new game plus option and a single save slot could hinder exploration and make the experience feel repetitive for some. Overall, while the game excels in narrative depth, improvements could further enhance its replay appeal.

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 overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Night in the Woods is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's rich narrative and character interactions as significant factors that encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics from COGconnected, DualShockers, and GamingTrend emphasize the importance of different paths, character backstories, and the impact of choices on the story, suggesting that players can experience a fresh narrative with each playthrough. The inclusion of mini-games, such as the dungeon-crawler game mentioned by GameSpot and Hardcore Gamer, further enhances the replayability by providing additional content to explore. Critics also appreciate the hidden stories and optional conversations that can be uncovered in subsequent playthroughs, as noted by TrueAchievements and CGMagazine, which adds depth and encourages players to revisit the game. Despite the positive aspects, some critics point out certain limitations that could affect the game's replay value. For instance, We Got This Covered mentions the absence of a new game plus option, which could have offered players a more streamlined way to experience the game with their previous choices intact. Additionally, Vandal notes that while the game has a reasonable amount of replay value, it may feel slightly repetitive towards the end. Furthermore, RPG Fan highlights the limitation of having only a single save slot per playthrough, which could hinder players' ability to explore different outcomes without starting over entirely. These critiques suggest that while the game has replay potential, there are elements that could be improved for a more satisfying experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods offers a compelling replay value primarily through its engaging narrative, character interactions, and the variety of choices available to players. Many reviewers, including those from GameSpot and Nintendo Life, agree that the game encourages exploration and discovery, making each playthrough feel unique. However, the absence of certain features, such as a new game plus option and the single save slot limitation, may detract from the overall replayability experience for some players. Ultimately, while the game excels in providing a rich and layered narrative that invites multiple explorations, there are areas for improvement that could enhance its replay value even further.

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 from various critics is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its strengths in narrative, character development, and artistic presentation. Many reviewers, such as DualShockers and IGN, commend the game for its unique storytelling and relatable characters, which resonate deeply with players. Metro GameCentral and GameSpot emphasize the game’s impressive interactive storytelling and emotional impact, noting its superb script and engaging dialogue. The visual aesthetics and soundtrack are frequently praised, with critics like Twinfinite and Xbox Achievements emphasizing the beautiful design and clever writing that contribute to its charm. The game’s ability to tackle complex themes such as human insecurity and coming-of-age experiences is also a recurring highlight, making it a rich and immersive experience for players. However, despite the acclaim, several critics pointed out notable weaknesses in Night in the Woods. Common criticisms include issues with pacing, particularly in the middle sections of the game, as noted by IGN and Game Informer. Some reviewers, like Polygon and Hardcore Gamer, mentioned that the gameplay can feel dull or repetitive at times, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, technical issues, especially in the Nintendo Switch version, were highlighted by critics such as God is a Geek and Hardcore Gamer, who noted that these problems could hinder the enjoyment of the game. There are also mentions of certain gameplay mechanics being less engaging, as seen in reviews from GameSpot and New Game Network, which could leave players wanting more in terms of interactive elements. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Night in the Woods is a standout title in the adventure genre, celebrated for its compelling narrative and character depth. While some gameplay and pacing issues are acknowledged, they do not significantly overshadow the game’s overall quality. Critics like GamingTrend and Pocket Gamer recommend the game highly, asserting that its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. The game is seen as a must-play for fans of narrative-driven experiences, with its unique blend of humor and authenticity appealing to a mature audience, making it a noteworthy addition to the indie game landscape.

TL;DR

Night in the Woods is a critically acclaimed indie title praised for its compelling narrative, relatable characters, and stunning visuals. Reviewers highlight its emotional depth and unique storytelling, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games. However, criticisms regarding pacing, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues—particularly on the Nintendo Switch—are noted. Despite these flaws, the game's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, solidifying its status as a standout in the adventure genre and a rich experience for mature audiences.

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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