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MONSTER

Planet of Lana

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player

AvailableMay 23, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

DeveloperWishfully

Overview

A young girl and her loyal friend embark on a rescue mission through a colorful world full of cold machines and unfamiliar creatures. Planet of Lana is a cinematic puzzle adventure framed by an epic sci-fi saga that stretches across centuries and galaxies.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana dazzles with its poetic environmental storytelling and emotional depth, yet falters in delivering a cohesive narrative, leaving players torn between awe at its artistic vision and frustration over underdeveloped themes and unresolved tension.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Planet of Lana receives praise for its evocative environmental storytelling, emotional resonance, and minimalist approach. Critics like Game Informer highlight the intriguing world-building through collectible fragments and visual cues, while GamesGrin and God is a Geek commend the heartfelt exploration of themes such as love, determination, and the bond between Lana and her alien companion Mui. The game’s reliance on silence and imagery to convey its narrative is lauded by SpazioGames, which notes that it “engages without the need for words,” and Eurogamer acknowledges its steady, immersive unfolding. IGN Italia and GameMAG emphasize the emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey, with the latter praising the “heartwarming moments” despite a lack of traditional dialogue. The narrative’s focus on environmental lore and subtle storytelling creates a sense of wonder, as noted by GamesHub, which describes it as “elegant, rich, and cleverly told.” However, several critics find the story lacking in emotional investment and structural coherence. Softpedia and Gamereactor UK note that the narrative feels underdeveloped, with the protagonist’s journey losing momentum as players prioritize progression over engagement. Finger Guns criticizes the “lack of emotional impact” and a “satisfying climax,” while Hey Poor Player argues that the game discards its potential for a gripping story in favor of superficial elements like “mean alien robots.” COGconnected and Hardcore Gamer point to a lack of character depth, with the back-story failing to evoke the same connection as the main plot. Noisy Pixel and Tech-Gaming mention that the protagonist’s determination is underdeveloped, and Press Start Australia observes that the story’s focus on “what is worth fighting for” feels more philosophical than impactful. The minimalism that some praise as a strength is seen by others as a barrier to emotional engagement. Overall, critics are divided but largely agree that Planet of Lana’s story is a mixed bag of artistic ambition and structural shortcomings. While GameGrin, God is a Geek, and GamingBolt celebrate its unique storytelling approach and thematic depth, others like Softpedia, Gamereactor UK, and Hey Poor Player find it emotionally flat or underwhelming. The game’s reliance on environmental storytelling and silence is both a strength and a weakness—praised for its creativity by GamesHub and Eurogamer, yet criticized for leaving key questions unanswered or characters unexplored. Despite these contradictions, the narrative’s focus on personal journeys, nature versus technology, and the bond between Lana and Mui resonates with many, as noted by KeenGamer and TheXboxHub. Ultimately, Planet of Lana is seen as a visually stunning, thematically rich experience that occasionally falters in delivering a fully satisfying emotional arc.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana's inventive puzzle collaboration shines with creative environmental interaction, but its repetitive challenges and derivative design fail to elevate it beyond a formulaic 2D platformer.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Planet of Lana receives praise for its creative use of companion mechanics and puzzle design, with several critics highlighting its engaging elements. GameMAG commends the intuitive puzzles that require combining Lana and Mui’s abilities, while God is a Geek appreciates the organic feel of challenges and effective utilization of the companion character. IGN Italia and GamesRadar+ emphasize the unique collaboration between Lana and Mui, noting how puzzle scenarios demand strategic thinking and creative solutions. TheXboxHub praises the cooperative gameplay, describing it as a side-on puzzle platformer that leverages Mui’s role to add complexity. Additionally, SpazioGames acknowledges interesting level design, and Worth Playing highlights responsive controls and a balanced difficulty curve. These positives suggest that Planet of Lana successfully integrates its core mechanics into a cohesive, enjoyable experience for players who appreciate thoughtful puzzles and environmental interaction. However, several critics criticize the gameplay for being repetitive, simplistic, or derivative. Metro GameCentral and New Game Network describe the puzzles as unoriginal and tedious, with the former calling them “a slog to complete” and the latter noting they lack creativity. Eurogamer Germany and PlayStation Universe argue that the game relies on familiar 2D puzzle-platforming mechanics without innovation, while Gamereactor UK and Finger Guns point to sluggish controls and overly obvious challenges. TheSixthAxis and Hardcore Gamer lament the lack of evolution in gameplay, with the former stating the emphasis is more on the journey than the puzzles, and the latter noting that mechanics are “serviceable but cause needless frustrations.” Critics like GameGrin and COGconnected also mention a lack of originality, with some finding the stealth elements too basic or the puzzles insufficiently complex. These critiques highlight a recurring issue: while the game’s foundation is solid, it struggles to maintain engagement through repetition or innovation. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging Planet of Lana’s strengths in companion-driven mechanics and puzzle design while recognizing its shortcomings in originality and variety. Positive reviews from GameMAG, God is a Geek, and IGN Italia emphasize the game’s thoughtful approach to collaboration and environmental interaction, whereas negative takes from Metro GameCentral, Eurogamer Germany, and PlayStation Universe stress its formulaic nature and repetitive challenges. Despite these differences, many agree that the game offers a relaxing, accessible experience with moments of creativity, even if it fails to fully differentiate itself from similar titles. The balance between its engaging mechanics and lack of innovation suggests Planet of Lana is a competent but unremarkable entry in the puzzle-platformer genre, appealing more to fans of its influences than those seeking bold experimentation.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

A stunning indie triumph, Planet of Lana dazzles with its hand-painted, Studio Ghibli-inspired visuals, vibrant environments, and seamless blend of nature and sci-fi. While minor flaws exist, critics universally hail its artistic brilliance and cinematic quality as one of the year’s most visually arresting games.

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 Planet of Lana have been universally celebrated for their artistic brilliance and immersive aesthetic. Critics consistently praised its hand-painted environments, vibrant color palettes, and painterly style, often drawing comparisons to Studio Ghibli’s iconic charm. New Game Network highlighted the “vibrant colors and well-realized environments,” while God is a Geek emphasized the “gorgeous hand-painted environments that constantly change.” Gamereactor Finland noted the “authentic buildings, stylish character modeling, and creative zombie designs,” and GamesHub praised the “exquisite” contrast between elements like forests and machines. The game’s attention to detail in creating visually appealing worlds was a recurring theme, with critics like Easy Allies describing the “gorgeous hand-painted feel” and Game Informer calling it a “beautiful art direction” worthy of being framed as art. The blend of serene natural landscapes and sci-fi elements, such as the juxtaposition of technology and nature, further enhanced its visual appeal, as noted by Press Start Australia and Checkpoint Gaming. While the majority of reviews lauded Planet of Lana’s visuals, a few critics pointed to minor shortcomings. CD-Action acknowledged that the graphics “are not highly detailed,” though they praised the smooth animations. Eurogamer Germany suggested the game “could have been more exotic and alien,” implying a desire for greater uniqueness in its world-building. Additionally, Hardcore Gamer noted that transitions between regions were “not always smooth,” which slightly disrupted the immersion. These critiques, however, were overshadowed by the overwhelming praise for the art style, with most reviewers emphasizing that the game’s visual charm and creativity more than compensated for any technical limitations. The overall consensus among critics is that Planet of Lana’s graphics and visual design are a masterpiece, blending artistic innovation with emotional resonance. Overwhelmingly, reviewers highlighted its unique hand-painted aesthetic, vibrant environments, and cinematic quality, with many calling it one of the most visually impressive games of the year. GamingBolt praised the “gorgeous hand-painted environments,” while TheGamer emphasized the “cinematic quality” and “undercurrent of mystery.” Even critics who mentioned minor flaws, like CD-Action and Eurogamer Germany, acknowledged the game’s artistic strengths. The collective praise underscores Planet of Lana as a standout title in indie gaming, with its visual design not only captivating players but also setting a high bar for art direction in puzzle platformers. As GameSpew noted, every frame feels like “a work of art,” cementing its status as a visually stunning achievement.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Planet of Lana's transcendent sound design and hauntingly beautiful score by Takeshi Furukawa, calling it a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling that elevates every emotional beat. Subtle robotic hums, organic textures, and orchestral swells create an immersive world where silence is as powerful as music. While a few note its understated nature, the consensus is unanimous: this is audio magic that defines the game’s soul.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Planet of Lana have been overwhelmingly praised by critics, with many highlighting their ability to elevate the game’s emotional and immersive qualities. Takeshi Furukawa’s composition is frequently lauded as a standout element, with reviewers like CD-Action describing it as “captivating” and “hypnotic,” while GamesHub notes that his score “illuminates scenes and provides clues about what to expect next.” The soundtrack’s cinematic quality is another recurring theme: GameGrin emphasizes its “immersive music that perfectly conveys emotions,” and Eurogamer Germany calls it “noteworthy” enough for potential awards. Environmental sounds are equally praised, with Checkpoint Gaming noting the “detailed environmental sounds” that complement the art style, and Easy Allies pointing to the inclusion of “unidentified robotic noises” and natural elements like rivers and animals. The music’s ability to evoke atmosphere—whether through melancholic melodies or orchestral swells—is a consistent highlight, as seen in Press Start Australia’s description of the score as “beautifully melancholic” and Game Informer’s praise for its “magnificent” main theme. While the majority of reviews celebrate the sound design and music, some minor critiques emerge. Generación Xbox notes that there are moments without music, which might feel abrupt to some players, and COGconnected mentions that the sound design is “excellent but subtle,” potentially underappreciated by those seeking more overt audio cues. Additionally, MondoXbox points out the absence of voice acting or localized text, though this is framed more as a stylistic choice than a flaw. These observations are rare and do not detract from the overall acclaim, as most critics agree that the subtlety and atmospheric depth enhance the game’s narrative and emotional resonance. The consensus among critics is unequivocally positive, with nearly all highlighting the soundtrack and sound design as integral to Planet of Lana’s success. GameSpew and PlayStation Universe both note the “beautiful” synergy between music and visuals, while TheXboxHub praises the “huge orchestral beats and immersive audio design.” The collaborative effort of Furukawa and the Hungarian Studio Orchestra, as mentioned by TheSixthAxis, adds a “classic sci-fi epic feel,” and Worth Playing calls the score “good enough to warrant a full soundtrack album.” Even in its quieter moments, the sound design is seen as vital—Softpedia notes its “subtle and effective” role in emotional scenes, while God is a Geek credits it with compensating for the lack of dialogue. Taken together, these reviews underscore that Planet of Lana’s audio elements are not just supportive but essential to its identity as a visually and emotionally rich experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana’s voice acting is hailed for its emotional resonance and inventive fictional language, yet criticized for minimal dialogue and accessibility challenges, sparking divided reactions between those who embrace its bold, atmosphere-driven approach and others who find it confusing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in Planet of Lana is praised for its emotional depth and creative use of a fictional language, despite minimal traditional dialogue. Critics like GameGrin highlight that the voice work “conveys perfect emotions in a non-existent language,” emphasizing how the actors effectively communicate feelings through intonation and tone. GamingBolt notes the “stellar voice work,” particularly the main character’s shifting intonations and the companion’s chuckles, which reinforce their bond. Similarly, Vandal acknowledges that while the language is invented, it is “easily interpretable” through onomatopoeia and context, creating a unique auditory experience. Worth Playing and CGMagazine also commend the game for using its own language to evoke universally understood emotions, suggesting that the voice acting enhances immersion rather than detracts from it. These reviews celebrate the unconventional approach as a strength, leveraging creativity to convey narrative without relying on conventional dialogue. However, several critics found the lack of traditional voice acting or clear communication to be a drawback. GameSpew (on PS4 and PS5) and COGconnected both describe the voice acting as “minimal” or “nearly non-existent,” with Lana’s language being “unintelligible.” GamesHub points out that only “Lana giving commands to Mui” is spoken, while Pure Xbox dismisses it as “non-existent,” leaving players to decipher the story themselves. Game Rant acknowledges that while there’s little dialogue, the characters’ bond is evident through their interactions, but this still feels like a compromise for some. Critics like New Game Network and GameGrin note the presence of “occasional voiceover in a fake language” or “gibberish,” which, while creative, may alienate players seeking clearer communication. These perspectives highlight concerns that the game’s reliance on ambiguity could hinder accessibility or emotional engagement for certain audiences. Overall, the critics are divided but largely acknowledge Planet of Lana’s bold approach to voice acting as a defining feature. While some praise its innovative use of emotion-driven performance and fictional language—citing GameGrin, GamingBolt, and CGMagazine—others criticize its minimalism or lack of clarity, as noted by GameSpew, COGconnected, and GamesHub. The game’s design seems to prioritize atmospheric storytelling over conventional dialogue, which resonates with reviewers who value creativity but frustrates those seeking more direct communication. Despite the mixed reactions, there is a consensus that the voice acting contributes uniquely to the game’s identity, even if its effectiveness depends on individual tolerance for ambiguity and reliance on non-verbal cues.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana delivers near-flawless cross-platform performance, with PC and Xbox Series X praised for smooth gameplay despite minor glitches, load times, and audio sync issues, while Nintendo Switch remains consistently flawless—proof of a technically polished, accessible title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Planet of Lana receives largely positive feedback across all platforms, though with nuanced variations. On PC, critics like Eurogamer Germany and GamingBolt praise its "flawless" execution, highlighting smooth gameplay, high frame rates, and minimal bugs—though some minor issues, such as occasional glitches or ragdoll animation quirks (noted by Press Start Australia), are acknowledged. For Xbox Series X, MondoXbox and XboxEra commend the game’s seamless performance, with plans to address resolution on older consoles, while CGMagazine and The Games Machine highlight its stability and generous checkpoint systems. Meanwhile, Nintendo Switch users benefit from consistent performance, as Nintendo Life notes a "smooth gameplay experience" without technical hiccups. These positives reflect the game’s optimization efforts across platforms, particularly in maintaining fluid mechanics and responsive controls. However, some platform-specific challenges emerge. On PC, critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Games.cz mention minor glitches and checkpoint issues, while Worth Playing points to rare bugs with flying sensors. Gamereactor Finland (despite playing on PC) notes audio-video sync problems in cutscenes, a concern that might stem from cross-platform testing. For Xbox Series X, CGMagazine criticizes frequent load times between gameplay and cinematics, and SomosXbox highlights black screens during transitions. XboxEra also mentions a fleeting camera zoom issue, though it was resolved. While these issues are generally minor, they underscore occasional technical friction, particularly in cutscene transitions and optimization for older hardware like the base Xbox One. The Nintendo Switch remains unscathed in this regard, with no reported negatives. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet of Lana delivers a technically strong experience across platforms, with only minor, often inconsequential issues. PC and Xbox Series X users benefit from smooth performance, though some glitches or load times persist—particularly on older hardware. The Nintendo Switch’s consistent performance further solidifies its appeal. While no platform is entirely free of technical hiccups, the majority of critiques focus on trivial bugs or optimization gaps rather than major flaws. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and The Games Machine emphasize the game’s stability, while others, such as MondoXbox and XboxEra, acknowledge ongoing improvements. This collective sentiment suggests that Planet of Lana successfully balances technical polish with accessibility, making it a commendable title across its supported platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana’s replay value hinges on hidden shrines and lore, but its 4–6 hour runtime, minimal post-game content, and lack of progression systems make it a short, linear experience best suited for exploration fans over repeat players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

94%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Planet of Lana offers some elements that enhance its replay value, albeit modestly. Critics like CGMagazine and XboxEra highlight hidden shrines and optional challenges, such as No-Fail runs, which provide additional lore and a slight incentive to revisit the game. TrueGaming and Worth Playing note secret shrines and collectible mural pieces that deepen the world’s storytelling, while Press Start Australia (on both PC and Xbox) praises the introduction of new mechanics and puzzle elements in each biome, keeping the experience fresh despite its brevity. These features suggest that while the core narrative is short, the game’s design encourages exploration for those interested in uncovering hidden details or lore. However, the consensus leans heavily toward the limitations of Planet of Lana’s replay value. Multiple critics, including GameSpew (PS4/PS5), COGconnected, and Gamereactor UK, emphasize its short runtime—typically 4–6 hours—with little incentive to play again beyond achievements or collectibles. GamingBolt points out that the only replay options are hidden areas and chapter selection, which they describe as “not a detriment” but still limited. MondoXbox and PlayStation Universe note the absence of side missions, progression systems, or gameplay variety, further reducing long-term appeal. The lack of multiple endings, combat, or evolving mechanics is frequently cited as a drawback, particularly for players seeking deeper engagement. Overall, critics agree that Planet of Lana’s replay value is modest and contingent on player interest in its hidden content. While CGMagazine argues that the optional shrines and lore provide “reasonable replay value for its price,” most reviewers, including GameSpew and COGconnected, view the game as a short, linear experience with minimal incentives to revisit. The positives—such as environmental storytelling and puzzle diversity—are overshadowed by the brevity and lack of substantial post-game content. Ultimately, the game seems tailored for players who prioritize narrative immersion over extended gameplay, leaving its replayability dependent on individual preferences for exploration and collectibles.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall reception of Planet of Lana is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its artistic vision, emotional storytelling, and immersive atmosphere. Many reviewers highlighted its stunning visuals and unique art style, with Eurogamer Germany calling it a "visually impressive" experience and The Games Machine describing it as "moving, well-balanced, and powerful." The game’s narrative, particularly the bond between protagonist Lana and her companion Mui, was frequently lauded for its emotional resonance. IGN Italia noted the "mysterious atmosphere" and "well-designed puzzles," while Press Start Australia called it a "profoundly moving and visually stunning indie game." The soundtrack and environmental storytelling also stood out, with GameGrin praising the "stunning visuals" and "great voice acting," and XboxEra hailing it as a "cinematic puzzle adventure." These elements collectively create a memorable, cinematic experience that resonates with fans of narrative-driven platformers. Despite its strengths, several critics pointed to notable flaws, particularly in gameplay innovation and depth. Metro GameCentral criticized the game as a "disappointing attempt to ape the magic of Inside and Limbo," while Finger Guns noted it "lacks innovation in gameplay" and "emotional impact." Some reviewers found the platforming mechanics simplistic or repetitive, with IGN France expressing a desire for "more risk-taking" and Tech-Gaming stating the "gameplay lacks depth." The short length—often cited as around 4–5 hours—was another point of contention, with New Game Network calling it "dull to play" after its promising start. Additionally, issues like repetitive puzzles, minor glitches, and a lack of accessibility options (as noted by Multiplayer.it) were mentioned. While these critiques highlight areas where the game falls short, they are often framed as secondary to its artistic achievements. The majority of critics agree that Planet of Lana is a worthwhile experience despite its imperfections, emphasizing its beauty and emotional impact over technical or structural flaws. GameSpew and Press Start Australia both recommended it as a "must-have" for fans of the genre, while GamingBolt called it "highly recommended" for its "compelling narrative" and "well-designed world." Even critics with reservations, like IGN Italia and Hardcore Gamer, acknowledged its strengths, with the latter praising its "raw power of the game's artistic direction." The consensus leans toward viewing Planet of Lana as a successful debut that balances charm and creativity, with many expressing anticipation for future projects from its developers. As TheXboxHub noted, it’s an "immersive adventure that deserves praise," reinforcing its status as a standout title in the puzzle-platformer genre.

TL;DR

Planet of Lana dazzles with breathtaking visuals and a touching story, but its simplistic mechanics and short runtime undermine its potential—still a standout indie gem.

MONSTER

Reviews

115 reviews found

The Games Machine

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023