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Not a Hero

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Not a Hero
Item: Not a Hero
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Shooter, Side View Perspective, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableMay 14, 2015

PlatformXbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

Developerroll7

Overview

Professional assassin turned amateur campaign manager Steve is charged with cleaning up the city by an anthropomorphic rabbit and mayoral candidate from the future named BunnyLord. Now Steve and his expanding roster of dubious heroes must wield their unique skills to shoot, slide, dive and take cover behind a political platform built on ethics, accountability, and an inordinate amount of gunfire. Eliminate the criminal underworld of the city’s three major districts and persuade undecided voters to your cause, tackling the issues that matter by putting a gun in the mouth of those issues. Through the power of ISO-Slant technology and a wasted youth, London-based developer Roll7 (OlliOlli) delivers the greatest 2¼D cover-based indie shooter of all-time, ever.

Elsewhere

6.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Not a Hero charms with its quirky premise of a time-traveling purple rabbit running for mayor, praised for its humor and satirical take on politics. However, critics point out the narrative lacks depth and cohesiveness, often feeling like an afterthought to the action. While entertaining, the story is seen as a mere backdrop rather than a compelling element, leading to a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Not a Hero has received a generally positive reception for its quirky and humorous premise. Many critics, such as God is a Geek and Eurogamer Italy, appreciate the satirical take on politics and the absurdity of a time-traveling purple rabbit named BunnyLord running for mayor. The narrative is often described as entertaining, with the game’s dark humor and British comedy style resonating well with players. Critics like COGconnected and The Escapist highlight the amusing character of BunnyLord, who engages players through a series of bizarre missions aimed at cleaning up crime in the city. The overall lightheartedness and uniqueness of the story are frequently mentioned, with several reviewers noting that it adds a fun layer to the gameplay experience. However, the story's execution has garnered criticism for lacking depth and cohesiveness. Many reviewers, including 3DJuegos and GameStar, point out that the narrative often takes a backseat to the action, reducing its significance in the overall experience. The storytelling is frequently described as minimal or throwaway, with critics like Telegraph and Game Revolution noting that while the humor can be amusing, it sometimes falls flat or becomes repetitive. The reliance on pop culture references and dark humor, while entertaining to some, is viewed by others as insufficient to elevate the narrative beyond a mere backdrop for the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the story of Not a Hero is entertaining and filled with quirky charm, it ultimately serves as a vehicle for the game's action rather than a compelling narrative in its own right. Reviewers like Hardcore Gamer and The Jimquisition acknowledge the fun and irreverent nature of the plot, but many agree that it lacks the depth to fully engage players. The game is appreciated for its humor and absurdity, but it is clear that the gameplay takes precedence over the storyline, leading to a mixed reception regarding the narrative's impact on the overall experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Not a Hero delivers fast-paced, engaging gameplay with a unique cover system and diverse characters, but suffers from repetitive level design and enemy types, making gameplay grindy and frustrating at times. Critics praise its strategic action and fluid controls, but the steep difficulty spikes and imprecise mechanics can detract from the experience. Ultimately, while the game shines in core mechanics, it lacks the depth and variety needed for lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Not a Hero has garnered a generally positive reception for its fast-paced, engaging mechanics and unique cover system. Critics like DarkStation and CGMagazine highlight the exhilarating nature of the cover-based shooting, which allows for a blend of strategic movement and action. The game’s character diversity, as noted by reviewers such as Everyeye.it and The Jimquisition, adds depth to the gameplay, providing players with various abilities that can be leveraged in combat. Furthermore, the inclusion of secondary objectives, as mentioned by Vooks and Hobby Consolas, enhances replayability and encourages players to explore different strategies and approaches to each level. The fluid controls and responsive mechanics, praised by GameTrailers and Digital Spy, contribute to an overall satisfying experience. However, several critics point out significant drawbacks that hinder the gameplay experience. A recurring theme in the reviews is the lack of variety in enemy types and level design. SpazioGames and GameGrin note that the repetitive nature of the environments can lead to a sense of monotony, while others like Gamers' Temple and VideoGamer mention that the gameplay can become grindy due to the trial-and-error required to navigate challenges. Additionally, the steep difficulty spikes, particularly in the later stages, have been flagged by critics such as The Escapist and Game Revolution as frustrating, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game. The cover mechanics, while innovative, have also been criticized for being imprecise at times, as highlighted by GameOver.gr. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Not a Hero offers a thrilling and chaotic gameplay experience, it is marred by issues of repetition and difficulty balance. The game successfully combines elements of fast-paced action with strategic cover mechanics, as noted by LaPS4 and COGconnected, making it enjoyable for players who appreciate a challenge. However, the lack of depth and variety in both enemies and level design, as pointed out by multiple reviewers, suggests that the game may not have enough staying power for some players. In summary, Not a Hero is a title that excels in its core mechanics but could benefit from more diverse content and a more balanced difficulty curve to enhance its overall appeal.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Not a Hero impresses with its vibrant pixel art and charming character designs, earning praise for its playful retro aesthetics. Critics laud the animation and humor that enhance gameplay, but many lament the lack of environmental variety, leading to repetitive and uninspired settings. While the visuals are a highlight, the game's charm is hampered by monotonous environments, leaving it to fall short of its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Not a Hero have garnered a range of positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its pixel art style. Many reviewers, such as Vandal and Gaming Nexus, noted the vibrant and colorful character designs that imbue the game with personality and charm. The pixelated aesthetic is often compared favorably to classic titles, with IGN Spain and CGMagazine highlighting how the visuals align well with the game's humor and chaotic action. Critics like Metro GameCentral praised the superb pixel art animation, while Game Rant and EGM emphasized the cartoonish and bright visuals that contribute to the game's overall fun atmosphere. The energetic and humorous tone of the visuals, as noted by Brash Games, enhances the gameplay experience, making it appealing to fans of retro aesthetics. Despite these strengths, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the visual design, particularly concerning environmental variety. Reviewers such as Destructoid and JeuxActu expressed disappointment with the lack of distinctiveness in the game's settings, noting that the environments feel repetitive and uninspired. Hardcore Gamer and Pure Xbox echoed this sentiment, with comments on the game's limited visual diversity and the feeling that many areas look identical. Critics like 3DJuegos and COGconnected also mentioned that the lack of interactivity and variation in level aesthetics could lead to player fatigue, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Not a Hero excels in its character design and maintains a playful, retro aesthetic, it suffers from a lack of environmental variety that can detract from the gameplay experience. The vibrant pixel art and smooth animations are appreciated, as seen in reviews from GameCrate and Gameblog.fr, but the repetitive nature of the settings is a common criticism. Critics like Vandal and MondoXbox highlight that the game's charm is somewhat diminished by its visual limitations, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it may not fully capitalize on its potential due to its design choices.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Not a Hero boasts a praised, energetic chiptune soundtrack that enhances gameplay, drawing favorable comparisons to Hotline Miami. Critics laud its upbeat vibe and humorous sound design, but some note issues with track memorability and repetitive voice elements. Overall, while the soundtrack is largely celebrated for its contribution to the game's aesthetic, some flaws prevent it from being universally acclaimed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Not a Hero have garnered substantial praise from various critics, particularly for its energetic and engaging soundtrack. Many reviewers, such as 3DJuegos and CGMagazine, highlighted the game's chiptune music, describing it as excellent and perfectly suited to the game's aesthetics and gameplay. Critics like Eurogamer Italy even went so far as to compare its quality favorably to that of Hotline Miami, noting that some tracks are memorable and enhance the overall experience. The upbeat and varied nature of the music was frequently mentioned, with GameCritics and We Got This Covered emphasizing how the soundtrack contributes to the game's intense atmosphere and sense of satisfaction during gameplay. Additionally, the humor embedded in the sound design, as noted by Push Square, complements the game's comedic elements, further enriching the player experience. However, not all feedback was positive, as some critics pointed out shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, LaPS4 remarked that while the music fits the game, it lacks memorability, suggesting that it may not leave a lasting impression on players. Similarly, Gaming Nexus and Gamers' Temple expressed concerns about the repetitiveness of certain sound elements, particularly regarding BunnyLord's voice, which some found annoying over time. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Grab It Magazine also noted that while the sound effects were impactful, they did not reach the high bar set by other games in the genre, such as Hotline Miami. This inconsistency in quality indicates that while the music is generally well-received, there are elements that could detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Not a Hero features a strong and enjoyable soundtrack that effectively enhances gameplay, particularly through its chiptune influences. Critics like 3DJuegos and Vooks celebrated the soundtrack's ability to stand on its own, while others acknowledged its contribution to the game's retro aesthetic. Despite some criticisms regarding the memorability of certain tracks and the repetitiveness of voice acting, the majority of reviewers agree that the sound design and music play a crucial role in creating an engaging and entertaining experience. The blend of humor, energetic music, and solid sound effects offers players a unique auditory experience that aligns well with the game's overall tone.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in "Not a Hero" is a mixed bag; praised for its quirky humor and characterizations, particularly Bunnylord's unique delivery, which critics liken to a Charlie Brown cartoon. However, some find it grating and incoherent, feeling it disrupts gameplay and humor. While many enjoy its comedic tone, the eccentricity may not resonate with all players, making it a defining yet polarizing aspect of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Not a Hero" has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its humorous and quirky characterizations. Reviewers like CGMagazine and GameGrin highlight Bunnylord's voice as a significant contributor to the game's comedic tone, with CGMagazine comparing it to an adult from a Charlie Brown cartoon, which adds to the overall charm. DarkStation echoes this sentiment, noting that the voice acting enhances the humor of the game. Critics also appreciate the variety of accents and character-specific quips, as seen in the reviews from Gameplanet and Hooked Gamers, which suggest that the diverse vocal performances contribute to the game's comedic atmosphere and appeal. However, not all opinions are favorable, with several critics expressing frustration with the voice acting. EGM describes Bunnylord's voice as nonsensical and wearing, while Brash Games finds it annoying and incoherent. Critics like COGconnected and Grab It Magazine also share similar sentiments, with COGconnected likening Bunnylord's voice to nails on a chalkboard, indicating that while the dialogue may be funny, the delivery can detract from the experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as LaPS4 and The Escapist, mention that Bunnylord's dialogue can disrupt the game's pacing, making the humor feel forced or dragging at times. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a mixed but predominantly positive view of the voice acting in "Not a Hero." While many find the quirky and absurd humor of Bunnylord and other characters to be a highlight, there are notable critiques regarding the delivery and coherence of the voice performances. Critics like Pure Xbox and Gaming Nexus appreciate the comedic fit of the voice acting, suggesting that it aligns well with the game's overall tone, while others caution that the eccentricities may not appeal to everyone. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as a defining feature of the game, contributing to its unique style, though it may also polarize players based on personal taste.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The PS4 version of Not a Hero shines with smooth gameplay and effective controls, earning praise for its polished performance. In stark contrast, the PC version faces significant criticism for floaty controls, bugs, and frustrating glitches, leading to a subpar experience. While PS4 players enjoy a refined game, PC users grapple with technical issues that hinder enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Not a Hero varies significantly between platforms, with the PlayStation 4 version generally receiving more favorable remarks. Critics like Brash Games and LaPS4 praised the PS4 version for its smooth and slick gameplay, highlighting the effective control scheme that complements the DualShock controller. Eurogamer Italy also noted that the game runs smoothly even during complex scenarios, which is a testament to its performance capabilities on this platform. Hobby Consolas pointed out that while the technical performance isn't heavily criticized, the simplicity of the design might suggest a lack of depth in technical execution, which could be viewed as a double-edged sword. In contrast, the PC version of Not a Hero has faced a barrage of criticisms regarding its technical performance. COGconnected noted that the controls feel "floaty," indicating a lack of precision that could detract from the overall experience. Critical Hit reported several bugs, including gameplay drops and rubber-banding enemies, which can severely disrupt immersion. Digital Spy echoed the frustrations with long loading times and the absence of checkpoints, which can lead to a tedious experience upon dying. Furthermore, GameCritics and The Jimquisition highlighted various glitches and control issues that hamper gameplay, such as aiming problems and unresponsive inputs, contributing to an overall sense of frustration among players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the PS4 version of Not a Hero offers a more polished experience with fewer technical issues, the PC version suffers from a range of bugs and control problems that detract from its potential enjoyment. Critics like Metro GameCentral pointed out "minor but irritating control flaws" on both platforms, but the issues are notably more pronounced on PC. This disparity indicates that while Not a Hero can be an enjoyable experience on PS4, PC players may encounter significant technical hurdles that could impede their enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Not a Hero garners a mixed but generally positive outlook on replay value from critics. Highlights include character unlocks, multiple endings, and diverse gameplay encouraging players to revisit missions. However, concerns about its short completion time (3-6 hours) and repetitive gameplay hinder long-term appeal. Reviewers note the absence of scoring systems and leaderboards, further limiting motivation for replay. While the game offers engaging mechanics and some replay incentives, its lack of depth and variety ultimately curtails its longevity, leaving a bittersweet impression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Not a Hero reveals a mixed but somewhat positive perspective among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's potential for replayability through its character unlocks, optional objectives, and varied gameplay styles. For instance, Attack of the Fanboy notes the presence of multiple endings and side objectives, which encourage players to revisit missions for a more complete experience. Similarly, Gamers' Temple emphasizes the appeal of unlocking different characters with unique abilities, while Eurogamer Poland points out that the game offers a highly enjoyable experience with good replay value due to its array of missions and characters. The game's addictive nature and the challenge of achieving 100% completion are also frequently mentioned, suggesting that players may find satisfaction in mastering the game's mechanics. However, despite these positive aspects, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's limited replay value. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and DarkStation point out that the game can be completed in a short time frame, approximately three to six hours, which inherently restricts the incentive to replay. Furthermore, many critics, including IGN Spain and GameTrailers, mention that the gameplay can become repetitive, particularly due to the linear design of levels and a lack of diverse objectives. The absence of a scoring system or online leaderboards, as noted by JeuxActu, further diminishes the long-term appeal for some players. This sentiment is echoed by GameStar, who indicates that once all characters are unlocked and missions completed, the game may not provide enough motivation for continued play. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a recognition of Not a Hero's replay value, albeit with notable caveats. While many reviewers appreciate the game's character variety and optional challenges, they also highlight the repetitive nature of gameplay and the short duration of the experience as significant drawbacks. Critics such as Push Square and NZGamer acknowledge that while there are opportunities for replaying missions and achieving completionist goals, the overall lack of depth and variety may limit the game's longevity. Thus, while Not a Hero offers engaging gameplay and some replay incentives, its shortcomings in content and structure leave a mixed impression on its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Not a Hero" is largely positive, with many reviewers praising its engaging gameplay and unique narrative style. Critics such as Gamers' Temple and GameCritics highlight the game's fun and chaotic nature, with GameSpot noting its well-designed level layout and enjoyable action. The humor, while sometimes hit or miss, is often cited as a strong point, with Gameplanet describing it as a "nonsensical, in-your-face pixel-y bloodbath" that entertains players. The visuals and soundtrack also receive commendations, with NZGamer appreciating the retro charm and catchy music, making it an appealing experience for fans of indie pixel-art games. However, the game is not without its flaws, as many critics point out issues related to repetitiveness and a lack of variety in gameplay. For instance, games(TM) mentions that while the controls are fun, the game suffers from a lack of diversity, leading to a sense of monotony. DarkStation and Polygon echo this sentiment, stating that the gameplay depth and level design could be improved. Additionally, some reviewers, like USgamer and The Escapist, note that the game is best enjoyed in short bursts due to its grindy nature, which can detract from the overall enjoyment when played for extended periods. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Not a Hero" is a solid, entertaining title that successfully blends humor and action, though it does have notable shortcomings. While many reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and Eurogamer Poland, recommend it for its fun and addictive gameplay, they also caution potential players about its repetitive elements and lack of variety. Overall, the game is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those who enjoy chaotic action and quirky narratives, but it may not resonate with everyone due to its flaws.

TL;DR

"Not a Hero" is a chaotic, entertaining indie game praised for its engaging gameplay, humor, and retro visuals, but critics warn of repetitiveness and monotony in gameplay. While it offers a fun experience, especially in short bursts, its lack of variety may deter some players. Overall, it’s recommended for fans of quirky action, but be prepared for its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

97 reviews found

The Games Machine

PlayStation 4

Feb 11, 2016