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MONSTER

Pentiment

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

2022

GenresAdventure, RPG, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableNov 14, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperObsidian Entertainment

Overview

A 16th-century narrative adventure set in Upper Bavaria, following Andreas Maler, a journeyman artist working in the bygone scriptorium of Kiersau Abbey during a time of great social unrest. While finishing his masterpiece, Andreas inadvertently becomes entangled in a series of murders that take place over 25 years. Peasants, thieves, craftsmen, monks, nuns, nobles, and even saints must be investigated and interrogated to expose the truth.

Elsewhere

8.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Pentiment receives high praise for its rich narrative and character development, seamlessly blending a murder mystery with 16th-century Bavaria's historical context. Critics laud its exploration of morality and community, emphasizing meaningful player choices that enhance engagement. However, some note an abrupt ending and verbose storytelling may alienate players preferring faster-paced action. Overall, despite pacing issues, Pentiment is celebrated as a significant achievement in narrative-driven gaming, rewarding thoughtful players with a profound experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Pentiment has garnered widespread acclaim among critics, who praise its rich narrative and intricate character development. Reviewers like CGMagazine and GameSpot highlight the game’s ability to weave a compelling murder mystery into the historical tapestry of 16th-century Bavaria, emphasizing the protagonist Andreas Maler’s journey as he navigates a complex web of societal and personal issues. Critics such as Meristation and XboxAddict commend the game for its exploration of profound themes, including morality, community dynamics, and the subjective nature of history. The narrative's depth, characterized by meaningful player choices that significantly impact the story's direction, has been particularly noted by critics like Adventure Game Hotspot and Digital Trends, who appreciate how these choices enhance player engagement and emotional investment in the characters. However, Pentiment is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including GameSpot and Vandal, pointed out the game’s abrupt ending, which some felt left the narrative feeling unresolved or rushed, detracting from the overall experience. Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that the storytelling can be verbose at times, potentially losing player engagement, especially for those who may not favor slow-paced narratives. Additionally, while many critics appreciated the depth of the story, some, like Push Square, noted that the extensive dialogue and slow-burning plot might not appeal to all players, particularly those who prefer more action-oriented gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pentiment offers a deeply engaging and thought-provoking narrative that stands out in the gaming landscape. The majority view the story as a highlight, praising its intricate plot and character-driven approach. Critics like EGM and NME encapsulate this sentiment by describing the game as a rich narrative experience that rewards players for their diligence and thoughtfulness. While there are valid concerns regarding pacing and resolution, the overwhelming appreciation for its storytelling and thematic depth suggests that Pentiment is a significant achievement in narrative-driven gaming.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Pentiment impresses with its rich narrative and character interactions, praised for encouraging replayability through player choices. However, it suffers from slow pacing and simplistic gameplay, lacking traditional mechanics like combat, which may frustrate some players. While its storytelling shines, the overall execution may alienate those craving a more dynamic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Pentiment has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its narrative depth and character interaction. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and Metro GameCentral, highlight the game's focus on exploration and dialogue, which allows players to engage deeply with the story and its characters. Critics like Everyeye.it and Screen Rant appreciate the impact of player choices on character relationships and narrative outcomes, emphasizing that the game encourages multiple playthroughs to experience different storylines. The incorporation of RPG elements, as noted by IGN Spain and EGM, adds a layer of personalization to the gameplay, allowing players to shape their protagonist's background and influence the unfolding narrative. However, the gameplay has faced significant criticism for its pacing and simplicity. Reviewers such as ZTGD and MeuPlayStation describe the moment-to-moment gameplay as slow and at times boring, with repetitive tasks like walking back and forth and engaging in lengthy text conversations. The lack of traditional mechanics, such as combat or complex puzzles, has left some critics feeling that the gameplay lacks depth, as noted by GamingBolt and SpazioGames. Additionally, the time constraints imposed on players can create a sense of urgency that some find frustrating, as highlighted by JeuxActu and TierraGamer, potentially hindering the overall enjoyment of the investigative experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Pentiment offers a unique narrative-driven experience with meaningful choices and immersive character interactions, its simplistic gameplay and pacing issues may detract from the enjoyment for some players. Critics like Gamer.no and Adventure Gamers acknowledge the engaging storytelling but caution that the gameplay's limitations could lead to a sense of confinement for those accustomed to more expansive game worlds. Ultimately, Pentiment stands out for its narrative focus, but its execution may not resonate with everyone, particularly those seeking a more dynamic gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Pentiment's graphics and visual design are critically acclaimed for their unique, immersive aesthetic inspired by medieval art and manuscripts, effectively enhancing storytelling and creating a vibrant 16th-century world. However, some critics note issues with stiff character animations and readability challenges due to stylistic choices. Overall, despite minor flaws, the art style is celebrated as a standout feature that captivates players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

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 Pentiment have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who appreciate the game's unique aesthetic inspired by historical manuscripts and medieval art. Many reviewers, such as AusGamers and Wccftech, highlight the charming presentation that effectively mimics woodcuts and manuscripts, creating an immersive experience reminiscent of a living codex. Critics like PCGamesN and Metro GameCentral praise the attention to detail in character design and the use of hand-drawn visuals that enhance the historical context. The vibrant colors and artistic direction, noted by XboxEra and Pure Xbox, contribute to a visually captivating world that resonates with the game's themes. Overall, the art style is seen as a significant asset, enhancing the storytelling and immersing players in the 16th-century setting. However, while the visual design is largely celebrated, several critics point out notable shortcomings. Many reviewers, including DualShockers and Game Informer, mention that character animations can be stiff and lack fluidity, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, such as Slant Magazine and PCGamesN, express concerns regarding the clarity of information due to the stylistic choices, with the hand-written lettering and cursive fonts posing readability challenges for some players. This balance between artistic expression and practical gameplay elements seems to be a point of contention among critics, indicating that while the visuals are striking, they may not be universally appealing. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising Pentiment's graphics and visual design as a standout feature. Reviewers like GamingBolt and Adventure Gamers emphasize the game's ability to transport players into a richly detailed world, highlighting the cohesive blend of art and storytelling. The unique presentation, which combines historical accuracy with creative flair, is celebrated by many, including Gamer.no and Gfinity, who commend the attention to detail and immersive atmosphere. In summary, while there are some criticisms regarding animation fluidity and readability, the game's artistic direction is widely regarded as a triumph, effectively enhancing the player's experience in this historical narrative.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Pentiment’s sound design shines with immersive, historically accurate audio, including quill scratching and period music that enhances the Middle Ages setting. Critics praise the soundtrack for its mood-setting qualities, but many lament the sparse use of background music and absence of voice acting, which they argue weakens emotional engagement. Repetitive sound effects also detract from the experience. Overall, while the game successfully captures an authentic atmosphere, it suffers from a lack of musical variety and vocal depth, leaving room for improvement in its auditory landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Pentiment have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its immersive qualities and historical accuracy. Many reviewers appreciate the subtle yet effective use of ambient sounds, such as the scratching of a quill on parchment, which enhances the game's narrative experience. IGN noted that the sound design is "excellent," with traditional melodies and period-accurate instruments that transport players to the Middle Ages. Critics like Attack of the Fanboy and Noisy Pixel praised the soundtrack, composed by Alkemie, for its ability to set the mood and enhance the overall experience, while others, such as Gamer.no and Checkpoint Gaming, emphasized how the sound design complements the visual aesthetics and historical atmosphere of the game. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. A common critique is the minimal use of background music throughout the gameplay, which some reviewers found awkward or distracting. Player 2 and Game Informer both expressed disappointment at the sparse musical elements, suggesting that the game could benefit from a more consistent audio presence. Additionally, the absence of voice acting has been highlighted by multiple critics, including ZTGD and RPG Fan, who suggested that this lack may detract from the overall engagement and emotional depth of the narrative. The repetitive nature of certain sound effects, such as the nib on paper, was also mentioned by PCGamesN and others, indicating a potential area for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Pentiment excels in creating an immersive and atmospheric sound design that reflects its historical context, it suffers from a lack of musical variety and voice acting. Critics like LevelUp and Everyeye.it recognized the effective use of music during key moments but noted that it is underutilized, leading to a somewhat sparse auditory experience. Despite these criticisms, the game's commitment to authenticity and the unique presentation of dialogue through text and sound effects have been appreciated, suggesting that while there are areas for enhancement, the sound design effectively contributes to the game's overall charm and narrative depth.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Pentiment’s absence of voice acting is a double-edged sword: praised by some for its innovative typography that enhances immersion and narrative depth, while criticized by others for lacking emotional impact and engagement. Critics highlight the creative use of fonts to reflect characters’ emotions and status, making for a unique storytelling experience. However, the lack of vocal performances may alienate players seeking a more traditional, immersive gaming experience. The game’s literary approach is a bold choice that divides opinion, offering a fresh perspective but potentially frustrating conventional gamers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting—or rather, the absence of it—in Pentiment has been met with a notable degree of appreciation from several critics, particularly for its creative approach to dialogue presentation. Critics like TrueAchievements and VG247 highlight how the game’s choice to utilize typography instead of traditional voice acting enhances the reading experience and aligns with the overall aesthetic of the game. The use of different fonts to reflect characters' social status and emotional states, as noted by Game Informer and Generación Xbox, adds a layer of immersion that some reviewers found to be engaging and reflective of the game's narrative depth. This stylistic decision is seen as a deliberate and effective means of storytelling, allowing players to connect with the characters in a unique way. However, the lack of voice acting has also been criticized for potentially detracting from the immersive experience. Critics such as COGconnected and Player 2 express concerns that the absence of voiced dialogue may leave the game feeling dry or less engaging for some players. Reviews from XboxAddict and PlaySense underline that while the text-based dialogue is well-crafted, the lack of vocal performances could diminish the emotional impact of character interactions. Additionally, the sentiment is echoed by critics like SECTOR.sk and Universo Nintendo, who point out that the absence of voice acting might be a drawback for those who prefer a more traditional gaming experience that includes vocal performances. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Pentiment is mixed. While many appreciate the innovative use of typography and the artistic choice to forgo traditional voice acting, others feel that this decision may alienate players who seek a more immersive auditory experience. The game's reliance on written dialogue is seen as both a strength and a weakness, with critics like GameSpew and RPG Fan acknowledging that while it can enhance the game's thematic elements, it may also frustrate players who expect a more conventional narrative delivery. Ultimately, Pentiment stands as a unique title that invites players to engage with its story in a distinctly literary manner, though it may not cater to everyone's preferences.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Pentiment impresses with strong technical performance across platforms, especially on Xbox Series X, where it shines with polished visuals and stability, despite some crashes. The PC version is stable but has minor glitches and control issues, while the Nintendo Switch offers a decent experience with slight frame drops. Overall, critics highlight minor annoyances rather than major flaws, affirming that the game effectively immerses players in its narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Pentiment has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, critics such as Attack of the Fanboy and Generación Xbox praised the game for its polished experience, highlighting smooth performance and minimal bugs. PlaySense noted the high-quality visuals in 4K, while XboxEra emphasized the overall stability across platforms. On PC, the sentiment is similarly favorable, with reviews from Game Rant and LevelUp confirming a stable experience and smooth animations. Critics like Meristation also appreciated the game's accessibility features, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. The Nintendo Switch version, while slightly less robust, still received commendations for its adequate performance, with Nintendo Life and Vandal noting that it plays well in both docked and handheld modes. Despite the overall positive feedback, there are notable negatives for each platform. On the Xbox Series X, Checkpoint Gaming reported frequent crashes, particularly during Quick Resume, which could disrupt gameplay, although the autosave system mitigates this issue. JeuxActu pointed out script errors and translation inconsistencies, while SpazioGames mentioned immersion-breaking technical limitations due to the small development team. For PC, some critics like SECTOR.sk highlighted graphical glitches and frame rate drops, albeit manageable, while RPG Fan noted frustrations with controls and the auto-save feature. On the Nintendo Switch, critics acknowledged minor frame rate drops and longer loading times, with Universo Nintendo stating these issues are not significant enough to detract from the overall experience, but they do exist. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Pentiment delivers a solid technical performance, with minor issues that do not significantly hinder the gameplay experience. The Xbox Series X version stands out for its polished execution, while the PC version is recognized for its stability despite some control-related frustrations. The Nintendo Switch version, although it faces some limitations, still provides a satisfactory experience. Critics like XboxAddict and Worth Playing echoed the sentiment of minor annoyances rather than major flaws, suggesting that while there are areas for improvement, the game successfully immerses players in its narrative across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics largely praise Pentiment for its replay value, highlighting its branching narrative and character choices that encourage multiple playthroughs. However, concerns about slow pacing, limited save options, and a single story conclusion could dampen enthusiasm for revisiting the game. While it promises varied experiences, opinions vary on whether these factors enhance or hinder replayability, making enjoyment dependent on individual player preferences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Pentiment reveal a generally positive sentiment towards its potential for multiple playthroughs. Many critics, such as PC Gamer and Gfinity, highlight the game's branching narrative and character choices as significant factors that encourage players to explore different outcomes. The ability to customize character backgrounds and make impactful decisions adds depth to the gameplay experience, making each playthrough feel unique. Critics like But Why Tho? and TrueAchievements emphasize the game's expansive storytelling over a 25-year timeline, suggesting that players are likely to find new experiences and insights with each run. This sentiment is echoed by Game Rant and Screen Rant, who note that the game's choose-your-own-adventure format allows for varied interactions and narrative paths. Despite the positive aspects, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may hinder replayability. MeuPlayStation and PC Invasion express concerns about the game's slow pacing and limited save options, which could discourage players from engaging in multiple runs. Critics such as Everyeye.it and Meristation mention that the story culminates in a single conclusion, which may lead to a sense of finality that diminishes the desire for immediate replay. Additionally, SECTOR.sk and Gaming Nexus highlight the game's linear nature and the sometimes unclear impact of choices, which could frustrate players and reduce the incentive to revisit the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a mixed but predominantly favorable view of Pentiment's replay value. While many reviewers, including Wccftech and PlayStation Universe, acknowledge the game's potential for varied experiences through choices and character interactions, others caution that factors like slow pacing and a lack of significant narrative divergence could limit this potential. The game appears to offer a rich narrative experience that invites exploration, but the varying opinions on its replayability suggest that players' enjoyment may hinge on their preferences for pacing and narrative structure.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Pentiment is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique narrative, rich historical context, and distinctive art style. Reviewers like IGN and Pure Xbox highlight the game's captivating storytelling and immersive experience, noting that it serves as a love letter to fans of medieval history. Critics such as Player 2 and Metro GameCentral commend the game for its thought-provoking content and engaging character development, emphasizing its ability to pose important moral and philosophical questions. The game’s artistic design has also garnered acclaim, with Destructoid and Windows Central describing it as a beautifully crafted narrative adventure that stands out for its storytelling and visual flair. However, despite the many strengths, Pentiment is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, including MeuPlayStation and GameSpot, point out the game's slow pacing and simplistic gameplay, which may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Critics like Slant Magazine and Jeuxvideo.com express concerns about the narrative's occasional shortcomings and pacing issues, suggesting that the heavy reliance on text and background lore can overwhelm the storytelling. Some critics, such as Wccftech and Guardian, note that while the game provides a rich historical experience, its glacial pace and laborious narrative could serve as barriers for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Pentiment is a remarkable achievement in narrative-driven gaming, despite its niche appeal and some pacing issues. Many reviewers, including NME and Dexerto, regard it as one of the best games of 2022, highlighting its unique storytelling and artistic design as standout features. While some players may find the gameplay limitations and slow pacing challenging, the game is widely recommended for those who appreciate deep storytelling and historical context. Critics like Game Rant and PC Gamer affirm that Pentiment successfully combines storytelling with player choice, making it a memorable experience for fans of narrative adventures.

TL;DR

Pentiment is a critically acclaimed narrative-driven game praised for its unique storytelling, rich historical context, and stunning art style, making it a love letter to medieval history. While many hail it as one of 2022's best for its engaging characters and thought-provoking themes, some critics point out slow pacing and simplistic gameplay that could deter broader audiences. Despite its niche appeal, it’s highly recommended for fans of deep storytelling and historical narratives.

MONSTER

Reviews

168 reviews found

100

Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Feb 27, 2024

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

Pentiment is highly recommended as a unique and impressive game that combines a rich historical setting with an engaging murder mystery.

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100

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is a standout title that combines a compelling narrative, unique visual design, and engaging gameplay, making it a must-play for any gamer.

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100

CD-Action

Nov 16, 2022

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

Pentiment is described as one of the smartest and most engaging adventure games in history, worthy of attention and remembrance for decades.

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100

TheGamer

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is an exceptional game that combines a compelling narrative, unique visual design, and engaging gameplay, leaving a lasting impact on players. It is highly recommended for its artistic achievement and emotional depth.

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100

Hey Poor Player

Xbox Series X

Nov 22, 2022

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

Pentiment is highly praised for its engaging story, unique visual style, and the depth of player choice, earning a perfect score.

100

But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is a special work of art that consistently engages players and leaves a lasting impression.

100

Gamer.no

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is hailed as one of the best games ever played by the reviewer, praised for its storytelling, character depth, and unique presentation. It stands out as a remarkable narrative experience.

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100

XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Nov 15, 2022

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

Pentiment is hailed as one of the best games of the year, praised for its narrative depth, historical context, and character development. It may not be for everyone, but those who appreciate story-driven experiences will find it exceptional.

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100

Screen Rant

Xbox Series X

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is a milestone for narrative-based games and a high bar for competitors. It's a reinvention of narrative gaming that asks thought-provoking questions. While it may not be for everyone, it's a captivating and subjective experience worth playing.

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100

Gfinity

Nov 14, 2022

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

Pentiment is a compelling narrative-driven game that excels in storytelling, character development, and immersive design, making it a standout title in the RPG genre.

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