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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, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

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 impresses with its stunning visuals and emotional themes centered on friendship, particularly the bond between Lana and her companion, Mui. Critics laud its innovative environmental storytelling, which conveys deep emotion without dialogue. However, many also highlight shortcomings, citing a vague narrative, lack of character development, and familiar plot tropes that undermine emotional stakes. While the game shines in aesthetics and has moments of potential, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling, engaging story, resulting in a mixed critical reception.

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 has garnered a mix of appreciation for its visual storytelling and emotional themes, particularly in its exploration of friendship and the bond between the protagonist, Lana, and her companion, Mui. Critics such as KeenGamer and The Games Machine highlight the heartfelt narrative that delves into love and determination amidst an alien invasion, suggesting that the relationship between Lana and Mui is a central pillar of the story. The game’s unique approach to storytelling, relying on environmental cues rather than dialogue, has been praised by reviewers like Easy Allies and GamesRadar+, who commend the seamless flow of narrative and the emotional resonance it achieves without traditional exposition. Additionally, some critics, including IGN France and But Why Tho?, appreciate the minimalistic yet impactful storytelling that critiques broader societal themes. Conversely, several reviewers express disappointment regarding the depth and engagement of the narrative. Critics from Eurogamer Germany, COGconnected, and Metro GameCentral point out that the story feels vague and lacks emotional depth, often following a familiar rescue formula that diminishes its stakes and tension. The absence of character development is a recurring theme, as noted by Gamereactor UK and Softpedia, who argue that the narrative fails to create a compelling connection with its characters or plot points. Furthermore, while some critics acknowledge the game’s aesthetic and visual storytelling, they also mention that the overall narrative can feel superficial or simplistic, as highlighted by CD-Action and Digital Trends. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Planet of Lana presents an intriguing and visually captivating story, it struggles with depth and emotional engagement. Many reviewers appreciate the unique storytelling mechanics and the bond between characters, but a significant number also criticize the lack of stakes and character development, leading to a mixed reception. The narrative is often described as simple and straightforward, with some critics like Game Informer and Worth Playing recognizing its potential for emotional impact yet feeling it falls short of delivering a fully engaging experience. The game’s reliance on environmental storytelling is both a strength and a weakness, as it captivates some players while leaving others wanting more in terms of narrative complexity.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana impresses with its engaging puzzle design and unique mechanics featuring companion character Mui, offering a blend of challenge and accessibility. Critics laud its intuitive gameplay, but many note significant drawbacks, including repetitiveness and a lack of innovation, leading to a mundane experience. While visually appealing, the game lacks depth and variety, making it suitable for fans of narrative-driven puzzle platformers, but unsatisfying for those craving dynamic challenges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Planet of Lana has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly praising its engaging puzzle design and the unique mechanics involving the companion character, Mui. Critics like GamingBolt highlight the well-designed puzzles that require rational thinking and strategic use of both Lana and Mui's abilities, which adds depth to the gameplay experience. The game is described as intuitive and responsive, with a good balance of challenge and accessibility, as noted by Worth Playing and Digital Trends. Additionally, GameSpew points out that the introduction of Mui adds complexity to the puzzle-solving elements, enhancing the overall gameplay dynamic. Critics like God is a Geek appreciate the organic feel of the puzzles and the balance between challenge and relaxation, which allows players to enjoy the environment as they progress. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks to the gameplay, particularly regarding its repetitiveness and lack of innovation. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe both express disappointment with the gameplay, labeling it as not compelling and boring due to the repetitive nature of the puzzles. Critics such as New Game Network and Eurogamer Germany echo this sentiment, stating that the puzzles lack creativity and excitement, often feeling too obvious or simplistic. The gameplay has been described as run-of-the-mill for the 2D puzzle platforming genre, with many reviewers noting that while the mechanics are competent, they do not evolve significantly throughout the game, leading to a sense of monotony, as highlighted by Meristation and Tech-Gaming. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Planet of Lana offers a visually appealing and somewhat enjoyable experience, its gameplay suffers from a lack of variety and depth. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and TheSixthAxis, agree that the game's puzzles, while clever in design, do not provide enough challenge or innovation to keep players consistently engaged. The reliance on familiar mechanics and the absence of combat or significant gameplay evolution contribute to a sense of repetitiveness that detracts from the overall experience. Thus, Planet of Lana appears to be a title that may appeal to fans of narrative-driven puzzle platformers but may not satisfy those seeking a more dynamic and challenging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana dazzles with its breathtaking visuals and hand-painted artistry, earning widespread acclaim from critics who liken its style to Studio Ghibli. Praise surrounds its vibrant environments, fluid animations, and immersive design, solidifying its status as a top indie title. Minor critiques exist regarding some lack of detail and jarring transitions, but they pale in comparison to the overall admiration for its artistic brilliance. This game is a visual masterpiece set to leave a lasting impression in the gaming landscape.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Planet of Lana is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its stunning artistic presentation. Reviewers frequently highlight the game's hand-painted environments, vibrant color palette, and painterly art style reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films. For instance, GamingBolt commends the attention to detail in the hand-painted backgrounds, while KeenGamer notes the impressive lighting and shadow effects that enhance the unique world design. Critics such as Game Rant and Metro GameCentral laud the game for its breathtaking vistas and artistic richness, describing it as one of the best-looking indie games and puzzle platformers available. The fluid animations and character designs also receive accolades, contributing to a captivating and immersive experience. While the majority of reviews are highly favorable, some critics do point out minor shortcomings. For example, CD-Action mentions that the graphics are not highly detailed, suggesting that certain visual aspects might lack depth. Additionally, Hardcore Gamer notes that the transitions between regions can be somewhat jarring, which might disrupt the visual flow of the game. Critics like Eurogamer also suggest that while the visuals are beautiful, they could have been more exotic and alien, hinting at a desire for greater variety in the game's aesthetic. These critiques, however, are overshadowed by the overall praise for the game's art direction. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Planet of Lana boasts a masterpiece-level visual design that captivates players through its stunning artistry and immersive environments. The game's ability to evoke emotions through its visuals, as noted by Pure Xbox and PlayStation Universe, reinforces its status as a standout title in the indie gaming landscape. With the majority of critics celebrating its artistic achievements, Planet of Lana is positioned as a visually striking experience that resonates deeply with players, making it a notable contender for one of the most visually impressive games of the year.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana's sound design and music are critically acclaimed, with Takeshi Furukawa's orchestral score praised as beautiful and emotionally impactful. Critics highlight the immersive audio experience that enhances gameplay, though some note moments of subtlety in the soundtrack that could lessen its impact. Overall, the game’s auditory elements are celebrated as a standout feature, deeply enriching the narrative and emotional depth.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's captivating auditory experience. Many reviewers praised the orchestral soundtrack composed by Takeshi Furukawa, describing it as beautiful, hypnotic, and emotionally resonant. For instance, Game Informer noted it as one of the year's best, while Eurogamer Germany suggested it could be nominated for soundtrack of the year. The sound design complements the visuals and gameplay effectively, with critics like Easy Allies and GameGrin emphasizing how the ambient sounds and detailed audio work together to create an immersive experience. Reviewers also appreciated the meticulous attention to detail in sound effects, with Gamereactor Finland noting the believable background sounds and voice acting that enhance the emotional connection to the game world. While the majority of reviews are positive, a few critics pointed out minor shortcomings. Some noted that the soundtrack, while beautiful, could be understated at times, potentially leading to moments where it felt less impactful. Generación Xbox mentioned that there were moments without music that may be missed, indicating a desire for a more consistent auditory presence throughout the gameplay. Additionally, while the sound design was generally praised, a couple of reviews suggested that the subtlety of the sound effects might not always capture the player's attention, as highlighted by COGconnected, who described the sound design as excellent but subtle. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Planet of Lana excels in its sound design and musical composition, creating a captivating and emotionally engaging experience. The collaboration between the stunning visuals and the immersive audio elements is frequently mentioned, with critics like The Games Machine and XboxEra emphasizing how well the music and sound design complement the gameplay. The work of Takeshi Furukawa is particularly celebrated, with many reviewers agreeing that his score significantly enhances the narrative and emotional depth of the game. Despite some minor critiques regarding the subtlety of certain audio elements, the overwhelming sentiment is one of admiration for the game's auditory achievements, making it a standout feature in Planet of Lana.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Planet of Lana features innovative voice acting that effectively conveys emotions through a unique fictional language, earning praise for its depth and character connection. However, critics point out the minimal traditional dialogue, which may alienate players who prefer conventional storytelling, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, while the game excels in emotional immersion, its reliance on unintelligible communication poses potential challenges for some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Planet of Lana has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several highlighting its unique approach to communication. Critics such as GameGrin and GamingBolt praise the game for its ability to convey emotions effectively through a fictional language, with GameGrin noting that the voice acting is "excellent" and perfectly captures the characters' feelings. Similarly, GamingBolt emphasizes the "stellar voice work," particularly the changes in intonation that enhance the bond between the main character, Lana, and her companion, Mui. Critics like Worth Playing and Vandal also appreciate how the game uses its invented language and onomatopoeias to create a form of communication that resonates emotionally with players, allowing for an immersive storytelling experience. However, there is a notable consensus among several critics regarding the minimal presence of traditional voice acting in the game. COGconnected and Pure Xbox point out the lack of comprehensible dialogue, with COGconnected stating that there is "nearly no voice acting" and Pure Xbox mentioning that the absence of voice acting leaves players to decipher the narrative themselves. Critics like GamesHub and GameSpew echo this sentiment, highlighting that the communication primarily consists of commands and unintelligible language, which may not appeal to all players. This reliance on a fictional language can be seen as a double-edged sword, as it may alienate those who prefer more conventional storytelling methods. Overall, the critics present a mixed but generally favorable sentiment regarding the voice acting in Planet of Lana. While there is a clear appreciation for the emotional depth conveyed through the unique language and character interactions, the minimalistic approach to voice acting has drawn some criticism for its lack of traditional dialogue. The consensus seems to be that while the game excels in creating an emotional atmosphere through its inventive communication style, the absence of recognizable language may leave some players feeling disconnected from the narrative. Critics like New Game Network and Gaming Nexus highlight this balance, acknowledging the game's creative choices while also recognizing the potential limitations for players seeking a more conventional narrative experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Planet of Lana impresses with its smooth performance and technical excellence on PC and Xbox Series X, with many praising it as "practically flawless." However, critics note glitches, loading issues, and audio-video sync problems that detract from the experience. Overall, it's a solid game with room for improvement, especially on Xbox.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Planet of Lana has garnered a mix of praise and critique across different platforms, particularly on PC and Xbox Series X. On PC, several reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and Multiplayer.it, lauded the game for its technical excellence, describing it as "practically flawless" with smooth character movements and interactions. GamingBolt also noted that the game ran flawlessly with only a minor bug that had no significant impact on the experience. Additionally, Worth Playing highlighted the game's ability to maintain a high frame rate even on lower-spec machines, which is a significant positive for accessibility. On Xbox Series X, MondoXbox and The Games Machine echoed similar sentiments, stating that the game runs smoothly without interruptions, further affirming the overall quality of the experience. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out for both platforms. On PC, Checkpoint Gaming and Games.cz mentioned occasional glitches and minor issues with checkpoints, which, while not game-breaking, could detract from the experience. Gamereactor Finland also pointed out audio-video synchronization issues in cutscenes on Xbox Series X, which could disrupt immersion. SomosXbox raised concerns about frequent black screens and loading times before and after cinematics, indicating that this could affect the flow of gameplay. Press Start Australia noted bugs in ragdoll animations upon dying, which could be frustrating for players seeking a polished experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a generally positive reception for the technical performance of Planet of Lana, with some reservations. While many reviewers highlighted the game's smooth performance and engaging mechanics, issues such as occasional glitches, loading times, and minor bugs were consistently mentioned across both platforms. The game appears to be a solid experience, particularly on PC, but some technical aspects need addressing, especially for Xbox Series X users. The mixed feedback indicates that while the game is commendable in many areas, there is room for improvement to achieve a truly flawless experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Planet of Lana impresses with fresh mechanics and hidden lore, enticing players to revisit—but its short 4-6 hour runtime, lack of combat, and limited gameplay variety severely undermine replay value. Critics agree: once you finish, there's not much reason to return unless you're after collectibles or achievements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

93%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Planet of Lana reveal a few positive aspects that stand out. Many reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and XboxEra, highlight the introduction of new mechanics and puzzle elements with each biome, which helps maintain a sense of freshness throughout the game. Critics like CGMagazine and TrueGaming note the presence of hidden shrines and collectibles that provide additional lore and context to the story, enhancing the overall experience for those who seek to delve deeper into the game's world. This suggests that while the game may be short, there are elements that can attract players to revisit certain sections for a richer understanding of the narrative. However, the consensus among critics indicates significant drawbacks in terms of replay value. COGconnected and Gamereactor UK point out that the game is relatively short, lasting around four to six hours, and lacks combat and diverse gameplay mechanics, which may deter more experienced players from returning. Critics like GamingBolt and GameSpew mention that aside from collectibles, there are limited incentives to replay the game, with no multiple endings or side missions to explore. This sentiment is echoed by PlayStation Universe, who notes that the lack of gameplay variety may further limit the game's replayability. Overall, the critics seem to agree that while Planet of Lana offers some intriguing elements such as collectibles and new mechanics across its biomes, its short runtime and limited gameplay variety significantly restrict its replay value. Most reviewers, including Worth Playing and Push Square, conclude that once players complete the game, there is little motivation to return, unless they are particularly interested in achievements or uncovering all the hidden lore. Thus, while the game has its merits, the general sentiment leans towards a lack of lasting appeal for players seeking deeper engagement beyond the initial playthrough.

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 sentiment regarding Planet of Lana is notably positive when it comes to its artistic and auditory elements. Many critics, including Finger Guns and GameMAG, highlight the game's visually stunning art style and captivating soundtrack, which create an immersive experience. Critics like MondoXbox and The Games Machine emphasize the compelling narrative and emotional depth, suggesting that the game's storytelling resonates well with players. The gameplay, while varied in opinion, is often described as engaging and enjoyable, with several reviewers such as Easy Allies and God is a Geek noting the game's ability to evoke empathy and wonder through its characters and environmental storytelling. However, the criticisms surrounding Planet of Lana are significant, particularly regarding its gameplay mechanics and narrative depth. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Tech-Gaming, point out that the game lacks innovation and depth, often comparing it unfavorably to genre classics like Inside and Limbo. Critics like COGconnected and PlayStation Universe mention that while the visuals are impressive, the gameplay can feel simplistic and lacking in variety, leading to a less engaging experience. Others, such as New Game Network and Hardcore Gamer, echo these sentiments, noting that the game becomes dull over time and fails to deliver a lasting impact. In summary, while Planet of Lana is celebrated for its artistic achievements and emotional storytelling, the consensus among critics suggests that it falls short in gameplay innovation and depth. Reviewers like Gamereactor UK and GamingBolt acknowledge the game's charm and beauty but also highlight its limitations, indicating that it may appeal more to those who prioritize style over substance. Overall, Planet of Lana is seen as a beautiful indie title that, despite its shortcomings, is worth experiencing for its visual and auditory delights, making it a pleasant, if not groundbreaking, addition to the puzzle-platformer genre.

TL;DR

Planet of Lana dazzles with stunning art and a captivating soundtrack, winning praise for its emotional storytelling. However, critics argue it lacks gameplay depth and innovation, often likened unfavorably to classics like Inside and Limbo. While its charm and beauty shine, many feel it prioritizes style over substance, making it a visually pleasing but ultimately underwhelming experience in the puzzle-platformer genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

115 reviews found

The Games Machine

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023

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

Planet of Lana is a moving, well-balanced, and powerful game in every aspect. The narrative, gameplay, visuals, and music all come together to create an unforgettable experience. The environmental puzzles and dreamlike scenarios keep the player engaged, while the art direction and music enhance the emotional impact. It is a game that will touch players' hearts and leave a lasting impression.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023

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

Planet of Lana is a truly cinematic puzzle adventure that delivers on its promises. It is visually stunning, has varied puzzle gameplay, and leaves players wanting more. It is described as an 'Off-Earth Odyssey' that shouldn't be missed.

GameGrin

Aug 14, 2023

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

Planet of Lana is an amazing game with an emotional story, great voice acting and music, stunning visuals, and fun gameplay despite some slight issues. It is definitely worth buying.

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God is a Geek

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023

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

The game is described as wonderful in almost every way, with a stunning adventure, great puzzles, and a beautiful story. The only minor criticism is the slow movement, but overall, it is highly recommended.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023

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

A highly immersive adventure that deserves praise and plays

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Worth Playing

May 22, 2023

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

Planet of Lana is a pleasant surprise with a compelling story, well-designed gameplay, stunning graphics, and impressive sound design. It is a strong contender for any 'best of' lists this year.

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GamesRadar+

Xbox Series X

May 22, 2023

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

The reviewer concludes that Planet of Lana is a beautiful and affecting adventure that they won't soon forget. They mention the fantastic variety of puzzle scenarios and memorable moments.

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GamingBolt

May 22, 2023

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

The review concludes that Planet of Lana is a beautiful experience with tight gameplay, a compelling narrative, and a well-designed world. It praises the lovable characters and the game's ability to evoke empathy and wonder. The lack of replay value and minor puzzles being trimmed are mentioned as potential drawbacks, but overall, the game is highly recommended.

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Games.cz

May 25, 2023

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

Highly recommended experience, especially for those who have access to Game Pass.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Apr 17, 2024

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

Planet of Lana is highly recommended, standing out in the genre for its impressive visuals and engaging story, despite its short length.

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