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Oxenfree II: Lost Signals

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals
Item: Oxenfree II: Lost Signals
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Horror, Simulation, Side View Perspective, RPG, Point & Click, Drama, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableJul 12, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperNight School Studio

Overview

Five years after the events of Oxenfree, Riley returns to her hometown of Camena to investigate mysterious radio signals. What she finds is more than she bargained for.

Elsewhere

8.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals impresses critics with its thematic depth and character growth, resonating with adult audiences through its exploration of guilt and relationships. However, many feel it falls short compared to its predecessor, lacking the emotional resonance and originality that made the first game shine. While praised for engaging dialogue and a well-crafted narrative, critics lament predictable plot twists and faltering pacing, leading to a mixed reception that underscores the challenges of sequel storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals has garnered a range of positive responses from critics, particularly regarding its thematic depth and character development. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Gamer.no, highlight the exploration of complex themes like guilt, personal growth, and relationships, making the narrative resonate with adult audiences. Critics like Wccftech and GamingTrend praise the coming-of-age aspect of the story, noting how Riley Poverly's journey through her past and the supernatural elements adds layers to her character. The game is also recognized for its engaging dialogue and well-crafted narrative structure, with GameMAG and Hardcore Gamer noting that the plot twist adds depth, even if it can feel somewhat predictable at times. Overall, several reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Digital Trends, commend the narrative for being both introspective and immersive, successfully tying back to the original game while introducing new elements. Despite these positive aspects, numerous critics express disappointment in various elements of the story. GameGrin and SpazioGames argue that the narrative lacks the depth and meaningful character interactions that characterized the first game, making it difficult for players to empathize with the characters. Others, like Adventure Gamers and Eurogamer Germany, mention that the sequel feels constrained by its predecessor, leading to a predictable and less engaging experience. Critics such as DualShockers and Gameblog.fr also point out that while the characters are well-written, the story suffers from a lack of originality and surprise, which diminishes the overall impact. Additionally, some reviewers, like Inverse and Digital Chumps, note that the pacing can falter, particularly in the latter half of the game. The overall consensus among critics seems to be that while Oxenfree II: Lost Signals offers a compelling narrative with intriguing themes, it struggles to reach the heights of its predecessor. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Gamer.no acknowledge the narrative's attempts to build on the original's foundations, but many agree that it often feels familiar and predictable, lacking the emotional depth and surprise that made the first game so impactful. While some reviewers, such as GameSpot and Gaming Nexus, appreciate the character development and thematic richness, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment in the sequel's ability to forge its own identity and deliver a truly captivating story. This mixed reception highlights the challenges of continuing a beloved narrative while trying to innovate and engage players in new ways.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals impresses with its narrative and dialogue mechanics but suffers from repetitiveness and simplicity in gameplay. While new features like the walkie-talkie enhance immersion, critics lament the lack of innovation and challenge, pointing to slow movement and minimal variation. The game appeals to fans of story-driven experiences but may frustrate those craving dynamic gameplay, ultimately feeling tedious and underwhelming for many.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals has garnered a mix of appreciation for its narrative-driven mechanics and criticism for its simplicity. Critics like PC Gamer and GameSpot highlight the engaging dialogue system that allows players to influence character relationships and story outcomes, creating a sense of immersion. The introduction of new mechanics, such as the walkie-talkie and time-warping elements, was noted by several reviewers, including Gamer.no and But Why Tho?, as enhancements that add depth to exploration and interaction. Additionally, some critics, like Shacknews and GameSpew, praised the minimalist approach to gameplay, suggesting that it enhances immersion by focusing on the story and character interactions rather than overwhelming players with complex mechanics. However, a significant number of reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the overall gameplay experience, citing issues such as repetitiveness and a lack of challenge. Adventure Game Hotspot and Starbit described the gameplay as monotonous, with minimal variation beyond exploration and dialogue choices. Critics like Meristation and TRG pointed out that the gameplay mechanics remain largely unchanged from the original, leading to feelings of frustration due to slow movement and simplistic puzzles. Moreover, Inverse and Eurogamer highlighted navigation issues and the restrictive nature of the game's paths, which detracted from the exploration experience. The absence of combat mechanics and the limited impact of player choices were also mentioned by GAMES.CH and PCGamesN, contributing to a sense of underwhelming engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Oxenfree II: Lost Signals successfully retains the charm of its predecessor through its dialogue and narrative focus, it suffers from a lack of innovation and depth in gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Digital Chumps, noted that the gameplay feels simplistic and at times tedious, with missed opportunities for more engaging challenges. The balance between exploration, dialogue, and puzzle-solving appears to be a point of contention, as some critics like Hardcore Gamer and GamingBolt found it engaging, while others felt it was too simplistic and routine. Ultimately, the game seems to appeal to fans of narrative-driven experiences but may leave those seeking more dynamic gameplay wanting.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals impresses with its stunning art direction and atmospheric environments, drawing praise for its painterly style and atmospheric storytelling. However, critics note a lack of significant graphical evolution from the first game, repetitive environments, and limited exploration, leaving some players wanting more depth. Overall, while the visuals are beautiful, they fall short of fully realizing the game's potential for a dynamic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting several positive aspects that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Gamer.no, commend the game for its beautiful art direction and atmospheric environments, with COGconnected specifically noting the striking contrast of dark tones with neon colors that create stunning vistas. Critics like Press Start Australia and TechRadar Gaming appreciate the painterly aesthetic, describing it as reminiscent of watercolor paintings, which adds a memorable quality to the visuals. The environments are often described as immersive and detailed, with Screen Rant and The Indie Informer praising the gorgeous artwork and atmospheric settings that contribute positively to the narrative experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design that detract from the overall impression. Many critics, including Meristation and GameMAG, express disappointment in the lack of significant evolution from the first game, suggesting that while the visuals are pleasant, they do not represent a substantial upgrade. Inverse and Everyeye.it point out that the environments can feel repetitive, with a limited sense of exploration and possibility, as many locations are variations of wooded paths. Additionally, PCMag highlights that the sparse world design limits interaction compared to other adventure games, which may leave players wanting more depth in their exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Oxenfree II: Lost Signals features beautiful and atmospheric visuals that enhance the storytelling, there are significant limitations in terms of graphical evolution and environmental diversity. Critics like IGN and Nintendo Life acknowledge improvements in character animations and detail, but many others, such as Gameblog.fr and Eurogamer, suggest that the game does not fully capitalize on its potential to create a more engaging visual experience. The blend of praise for the artistic style with criticisms of repetitiveness and a lack of evolution indicates a mixed reception, suggesting that while the game is visually appealing, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more dynamic graphical experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals boasts a well-received sound design and synth-heavy soundtrack that amplifies its atmospheric gameplay and emotional depth, with critics praising its haunting effects and immersive soundscapes. However, issues like loud music during dialogue and a lack of innovation in audio elements have drawn some criticism. Overall, while not without flaws, the sound design is a standout feature, effectively enhancing the game's supernatural themes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise the atmospheric qualities and immersive elements that enhance the gameplay experience. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Eurogamer, highlight the effective use of the synthesizer soundtrack, which captures an ethereal 1980s spirit that complements the game's tone and emotional depth. The integration of eerie radio tuning effects, as noted by Digital Chumps, adds a haunting layer to the atmosphere, while the ambient soundscapes contribute to the overall mood of the game, creating a sense of unease and immersion. Critics like GamingTrend and GAMINGbible further emphasize the soundtrack's ability to elevate the narrative experience, with its chilling and moody synths serving to enhance the supernatural themes present throughout the game. However, despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Gaming Nexus mentions that the music can be excessively loud during voiceovers, making it difficult to hear important dialogue. Additionally, App Trigger highlights issues with audio clarity, where significant audio elements can be overshadowed by less important sounds. Furthermore, GamesRadar+ and Inverse express disappointment in the lack of innovation, suggesting that the sound design does not introduce fresh supernatural phenomena, which could have enriched the experience further. These criticisms indicate that while the sound design is effective, there are areas where it could have been improved to provide a more cohesive auditory experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Oxenfree II: Lost Signals are strong components that significantly contribute to the game's atmosphere and immersion. While there are some criticisms regarding audio clarity and the lack of innovation, the majority of reviews reflect a positive sentiment, with many praising the effective integration of sound elements into the gameplay. Critics like PC Gamer and WellPlayed commend the spooky static and immersive soundscapes, reinforcing the game's ability to create a captivating auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound design and music are seen as a highlight of the game, successfully enhancing the emotional depth and supernatural themes that define Oxenfree II: Lost Signals.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals features largely praised voice acting, with standout performances adding emotional depth and authenticity to character interactions, especially between Riley and Jacob. Critics commend Liz Saydah's portrayal of Riley, enhancing the narrative. However, some voices are criticized for being overly snarky or lacking emotional impact, and issues with dialogue pacing have been noted. Overall, while inconsistencies exist, the voice acting is considered a strong asset that enriches the game's storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the voice acting in Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is largely positive, with many critics praising the performances for their emotional depth and naturalistic qualities. Reviewers such as PCGamesN and GameSpot highlighted the authenticity of the characters' interactions, particularly noting the strong chemistry between the protagonists, Riley and Jacob. Critics like Digital Trends and We Got This Covered specifically commended Liz Saydah's portrayal of Riley, describing it as nuanced and relatable, which significantly enhances the emotional weight of the narrative. The dialogue has been characterized as engaging and reflective of real-life conversations, with many reviews noting that the performances contribute positively to character development and immersion in the story. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that some reviewers have pointed out. PCMag described the main characters' voices as overly snarky and annoying, while GamesHub mentioned that the dialogue's pauses and hesitations could feel distracting and stilted. Additionally, Everyeye.it noted that while some performances excelled, others, like Riley's in critical moments, lacked emotional impact. Critics such as New Game Network and Gfinity also pointed out issues with slow delivery detracting from the overall experience. This mixed feedback suggests that while the performances are generally strong, there are inconsistencies that affect the overall quality. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is predominantly well-executed, contributing significantly to the game's emotional depth and character interactions. While some reviewers expressed concerns about certain performances and dialogue pacing, the majority found the voice acting to be a standout aspect of the game. Publications like IGN and Shacknews emphasized the relatability and authenticity of the characters, reinforcing the notion that the voice acting enhances the storytelling experience. Overall, despite some criticisms, the positive reception indicates that the voice performances effectively elevate the game's narrative and emotional engagement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals has mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version suffers from crashes and performance dips during key moments, while the PlayStation 5 has audio issues and long loading screens. The PC version is the most stable, running smoothly but with minor navigation hiccups. Overall, the PS5 and PC experiences are better than the Switch's.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals across various platforms has received a mixed reception from critics, with notable positives highlighted for each system. On the Nintendo Switch, Digital Spy praised the game for providing an immersive and smooth experience without any technical issues, while Pocket Tactics also noted that it runs well, albeit with minor character size issues in handheld mode. On the PlayStation 5, IGN and Jeuxvideo.com both reported strong performance with smooth controls and no significant bugs, indicating a generally stable experience. Similarly, on PC, several critics, including Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr, mentioned that the game runs smoothly with no major technical issues, suggesting a solid performance overall. However, the negatives for each platform reveal some significant concerns. On the Nintendo Switch, Gamer.no reported a frustrating crash that required replaying a significant emotional part of the story, and Nintenduo pointed out performance issues during climactic moments that detracted from the experience. On the PlayStation 5, while many critics noted good performance, App Trigger and GGRecon highlighted audio issues and long loading screens that could disrupt gameplay. Furthermore, Gaming Nexus mentioned a freezing issue during a pivotal scene, which caused frustration. On PC, Eurogamer Germany noted technical issues such as loading screens interrupting dialogues, while Gfinity pointed out that frequent loading screens could disrupt navigation, even if the loading times themselves were not particularly long. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Oxenfree II: Lost Signals performs well across platforms, there are notable discrepancies in the experience. The Nintendo Switch version appears to have more significant technical issues, particularly with crashes and performance dips during key moments, as noted by critics like Nintenduo and Gamer.no. The PlayStation 5 version generally received a more favorable reception, though some critics did point out frustrating audio and loading issues. Meanwhile, the PC version seems to be the most stable, with a majority of critics reporting smooth performance, although minor issues with navigation and interaction were noted. Ultimately, the game's technical performance varies significantly by platform, with the PlayStation 5 and PC versions generally faring better than the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals has a mixed but generally positive outlook on replayability. Critics praise its branching narrative and dialogue choices that encourage exploration of different outcomes. However, concerns arise over its linear design, repetitive scenes, and lack of features like chapter selection, which may limit incentive for multiple playthroughs. While it appeals to narrative enthusiasts, those seeking significant variation might find it lacking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals present a mixed but generally positive sentiment about its potential for multiple playthroughs. Several critics, such as Gamer.no and Hobby Consolas, highlight the game's intricate dialogue system and branching narrative as strong incentives for replayability, allowing players to explore different choices and endings. Critics like COGconnected and Digital Chumps also emphasize the game's ability to encourage exploration of various outcomes through its decision-making mechanics. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gfinity and My critic name is GGRecon, note that the game offers multiple endings and hidden narrative threads, which can entice players to revisit the game to uncover all story aspects. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, citing limitations that may deter players from multiple playthroughs. Starbit and GamesRadar+ point out the linear nature of the game and the lack of compelling differences in outcomes based on choices, which diminishes the incentive to replay. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and GameMAG mention repetitive scenes and unsatisfying endings as factors that negatively impact replayability. Furthermore, the absence of features like chapter selection or manual save options, as noted by GAMES.CH and Gameblog.fr, can make it tedious for players to revisit the game to explore alternate paths. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a cautious optimism regarding the replay value of Oxenfree II: Lost Signals. While many reviewers acknowledge that the game offers multiple endings and choices that can affect relationships, the linearity and certain design choices limit the overall replay potential. Critics like New Game Network and TechRadar Gaming suggest that while the game may encourage some players to return for different outcomes, the experience may not be compelling enough for extensive replaying. Ultimately, the game seems to cater well to those who enjoy narrative exploration but may fall short for players seeking significant variation in their playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Oxenfree II: Lost Signals" reflects a mix of appreciation for its narrative and artistic qualities, alongside criticisms of its gameplay and innovation. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and God is a Geek, commend the game for its engaging storytelling, strong character dynamics, and beautiful visuals. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN Brasil highlight the mature themes and emotional depth that resonate throughout the narrative, suggesting that the game successfully builds upon the original's foundation in terms of character exploration and thematic complexity. The atmospheric design and compelling dialogue are frequently praised, with reviewers noting that these elements contribute to a captivating experience for players who appreciate narrative-driven titles. Conversely, a significant portion of the reviews expresses disappointment regarding the game's gameplay mechanics and lack of innovation. Critics from GamesRadar+ and GameMAG emphasize that "Oxenfree II" falls short in comparison to its predecessor, citing dull gameplay and a sense of familiarity that detracts from the overall experience. The removal of subtitles and gameplay depth issues are mentioned as specific drawbacks by GameMAG and PCMag, while others like SpazioGames and Metro GameCentral criticize the game for not fully realizing its potential. The consensus suggests that while the narrative remains strong, the gameplay fails to evolve significantly, leaving some players wanting more in terms of engagement and replayability. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that "Oxenfree II: Lost Signals" is a mixed bag. While it retains the charm and narrative strength of the original, as noted by critics like IGN and Eurogamer, many feel it does not adequately innovate or expand upon its predecessor's gameplay elements. The game is generally seen as a worthwhile experience for fans of the first title, as indicated by reviewers like Twinfinite and Multiplayer.it, but it may not satisfy those seeking a more thrilling or innovative adventure. Ultimately, the sequel serves as a testament to the series' strengths while also highlighting areas where it could have pushed boundaries further.

TL;DR

"Oxenfree II: Lost Signals" impresses with its engaging narrative, strong characters, and stunning visuals, earning praise for its emotional depth and atmospheric design. However, it suffers criticism for lackluster gameplay and minimal innovation compared to its predecessor, leaving some players unsatisfied. While fans of the original will likely enjoy it, those craving more thrilling gameplay may be disappointed. Overall, it's a mixed bag that showcases the series' strengths but misses the mark on evolution.

MONSTER

Reviews

134 reviews found

God is a Geek

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is a special game that captivates players with its engaging story, beautiful visuals, and strong character dynamics, making it a memorable experience.

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GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is praised as an exceptional sequel that successfully builds on its predecessor, offering a unique storytelling experience that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is praised as a remarkable sequel that enhances the original's strengths, offering a deep, engaging, and artistically rich experience.

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Malditos Nerds

PlayStation 5

Jul 28, 2023

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

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is a highly recommended narrative adventure that excels in storytelling, character development, and immersive sound design, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of graphic adventures.

VideoGamer

PlayStation 5

Jul 11, 2023

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

Oxenfree 2: Lost Signals is a solid evolution of Night School Studio's previous work, with a captivating and emotional narrative and refined mechanics. Despite minor gripes, it leaves a positive overall impression.

Digital Spy

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is as unique as its predecessor, delivering a comforting yet intriguing blend of ideas. The game is highly recommended.

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But Why Tho?

Nintendo Switch

Jul 11, 2023

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

Overall, Oxenfree II: Lost Signals is a home run for Night School Studio, offering a deeply immersive and engaging experience.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree 2 is an expertly crafted game that excels in storytelling, dialogue, and character development, making it a memorable experience despite its few flaws.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2023

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

If you enjoyed the original Oxenfree, you will likely enjoy Oxenfree II, with its dark and mysterious world and satisfying endings.

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Siliconera

Nintendo Switch

Jul 12, 2023

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

Oxenfree 2 is a worthy sequel that builds on its predecessor, providing a narrative adventure that delves into complex themes of time and choice, making it essential for fans of the original.

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