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Ravenlok

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

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableMay 4, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC

DeveloperCococucumber

Overview

Ravenlok's life takes a turn for the unexpected when she stumbles through a magical mirror into a troubled kingdom. Explore fantastical realms, meet mad characters and defeat dark monsters to end the Caterpillar Queen’s reign of terror. Your destiny awaits in an action-packed, coming of age adventure.

Elsewhere

6.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Ravenlok charms with its whimsical fairy tale narrative and vibrant art, evoking classics like Alice in Wonderland. Critics praise its adventure motifs and appeal to younger audiences, but slam its cliched story, lack of emotional depth, and underdeveloped characters. While the enchanting world captivates, the execution feels hollow and forgettable, leading to a mixed reception that highlights its charm but critiques its substance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Ravenlok has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its whimsical and charming narrative that draws heavily from beloved fantasy classics. Reviewers like COGconnected and Gamereactor UK appreciate the coherent narrative structure and the fairy tale aesthetic reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland and the works of Tolkien and Lewis. Critics such as Game Rant and GAMES.CH highlight the protagonist's journey as she transforms into the prophesied hero, Ravenlok, and embarks on a quest to confront an evil queen, which resonates well with those who enjoy classic adventure motifs. The enchanting world of Dunia and the colorful art style have also been praised, contributing to the game's appeal, especially for younger audiences, as noted by Softpedia. However, several critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the story's execution. Many reviews, including those from Press Start Australia and PC Gamer, criticize the narrative for being cliched and lacking emotional depth, describing it as "simple" and "threadbare." The protagonist's acceptance of her destiny without much internal conflict or character development is a recurring theme in the critiques, with But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming noting the absence of meaningful exploration of her relationships, particularly with her parents. Additionally, critics like KeenGamer and PC Gamer express concerns about the lack of depth and innovation in the story, suggesting that it feels hollow and forgettable. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Ravenlok presents a charming and visually appealing fairy tale narrative, it ultimately falls short in terms of depth and character engagement. The game's reliance on familiar tropes and its straightforward approach to storytelling, as highlighted by Shacknews and XboxEra, may limit its impact on players seeking a more immersive and emotionally resonant experience. Despite its enchanting premise and nostalgic references, the story's execution leaves much to be desired, leading to a mixed reception that acknowledges its charm while critiquing its lack of substance.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ravenlok impresses with its accessibility and simple mechanics, making it great for younger players and casual gamers. Critics praise its memorable boss fights and engaging puzzles. However, the game suffers from a lack of challenge and depth, with repetitive combat and easy quests that may bore seasoned players. Ultimately, while charming, it fails to provide the complexity and engagement that a wider audience seeks, leaving it feeling shallow and uninspired.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The gameplay of Ravenlok has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its accessibility and straightforward mechanics. Several reviewers, including But Why Tho? and COGconnected, noted that the game is suitable for younger players due to its simple controls and mechanics. Critics like Game Rant and Gamereactor UK highlighted that while the combat is basic, the boss fights are memorable and provide a satisfying experience. Additionally, the inclusion of puzzles and quests, which some critics like Movies Games and Tech found engaging, adds a layer of enjoyment to the gameplay, making it a pleasant experience for casual gamers. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that Ravenlok suffers from a lack of challenge and depth. Many reviewers, such as GamersRD and MondoXbox, expressed that the combat is simplistic and repetitive, with little room for strategy or skill development. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Shacknews pointed out that the gameplay can become monotonous, with fetch quests and easy puzzles dominating the experience. The absence of a robust skill tree or complex combat mechanics, as noted by Press Start Australia and XboxEra, further detracts from the overall engagement, leading to a gameplay experience that feels shallow and uninspired. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Ravenlok offers a charming and accessible experience, it ultimately lacks the depth and challenge that more seasoned gamers might seek. The simplistic nature of the gameplay, as highlighted by multiple reviewers including PC Gamer and Softpedia, leads to a repetitive cycle of combat and quests that may not hold the attention of players looking for a more intricate adventure. While the game may appeal to a younger audience or those new to action-adventure titles, the general feedback suggests that it falls short of delivering a compelling and varied gameplay experience for a broader audience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ravenlok's graphics and visual design are a triumph, with critics praising its unique voxel art style and vibrant colors that create an enchanting world. While some camera angles and minor glitches detract from the experience, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive, solidifying Ravenlok as a visually stunning standout in fantasy gaming this year.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

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 Ravenlok have garnered widespread acclaim among critics, with many praising its unique voxel art style and vibrant color palette. Reviewers from But Why Tho? and COGconnected highlighted the beautifully designed 3D voxel artwork that creates a visually striking experience. The environments are often described as enchanting and varied, with GamersRD and Generación Xbox noting the stunning details in the world and character designs. Critics like Shacknews and XboxEra emphasized the artistic depth and fidelity achieved through voxel technology, further enhancing the game's whimsical charm. The overall impression is that Ravenlok successfully combines a playful aesthetic with immersive environments, making it a standout title in its visual presentation. However, some criticisms do exist regarding the game's graphics. A few reviewers, such as PC Gamer and TrueGaming, pointed out that certain camera angles can obstruct visibility, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, while the voxel graphics are generally praised, PLAY! Zine noted that they can occasionally create a strange appearance in the world. This sentiment was echoed by Softpedia, which mentioned minor glitches that can disrupt the visual flow. Despite these concerns, the majority of critics remained focused on the game's strengths, suggesting that the positives significantly outweigh the negatives. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the graphics and visual design of Ravenlok being regarded as one of its strongest features. Many reviewers, including those from Game Rant and Multiplayer.it, highlighted the enchanting world created through voxel graphics, which successfully evokes a sense of wonder and exploration. The charming art style and attention to detail have left a lasting impression, making Ravenlok one of the more visually impressive fantasy titles of the year. Despite some minor criticisms, the general sentiment is that Ravenlok excels in its visual presentation, showcasing the potential of voxel art in creating engaging and memorable gaming experiences.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ravenlok's sound design and music earn mixed reviews, praised for their whimsical orchestral quality that enhances the fantasy setting. Critics commend the varied themes and immersive atmosphere but criticize the repetitiveness of music and underwhelming environmental sound effects. While the soundtrack adds charm, it ultimately lacks depth and variety, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Ravenlok have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an engaging auditory experience. Many reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and Checkpoint Gaming, commend the soundtrack for its whimsical and orchestral qualities, which effectively complement the game's fantasy setting. Critics like GamersRD and Noisy Pixel appreciate the varied musical themes, noting that the soundtracks range from tranquil to somber, adding depth to the gaming experience. The music is often described as fitting for the adventure, with recognizable themes for different areas, as noted by COGconnected and Generación Xbox, which enhances the overall immersion in the game's world. However, several critiques point out significant shortcomings in the sound design and music. A recurring theme among reviewers is the repetitiveness of the music, particularly when players spend extended periods in the same area. Critics like MondoXbox and PLAY! Zine emphasize that the short music clips can become annoying over time, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the environmental sound design is often described as minimal or underwhelming, with critics like Movies Games and Tech and Softpedia noting that the sound effects, especially in combat, fail to impress and can feel repetitive. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Ravenlok's soundtrack is enjoyable and fits the whimsical tone of the game, it suffers from repetitiveness and a lack of refinement in sound design. The music is appreciated for its ability to enhance the atmosphere, as highlighted by XboxEra and TrueGaming, but the absence of voice acting and underwhelming sound effects, as pointed out by multiple reviewers, leave room for improvement. Critics seem to agree that while the auditory experience is a strong aspect of Ravenlok, it could benefit from more variety and depth to elevate it further.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Ravenlok impresses on Xbox Series X (4K 60FPS) and S (1440p 60FPS) with smooth performance, but critics cite bugs and limited options as drawbacks. PC version praised for flawless play but has minor glitches. Overall, a solid game with technical strengths and some inconsistencies needing fixes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Ravenlok across various gaming platforms has garnered a mixed yet generally positive reception from critics. On the Xbox Series X, reviewers like MondoXbox noted that the game runs impressively at 4K 60FPS, showcasing the console's capabilities. GamersRD echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the game runs smoothly without any graphical bugs or slowdowns. Additionally, the Xbox Series S version performs well at 1440p 60FPS, while the Xbox One X maintains a respectable 1080p 60FPS. On the PC front, critics such as KeenGamer and PC Gamer praised the game for its flawless performance, quick loading times, and absence of technical issues, which indicates a well-polished experience. Even PLAY! Zine, while mentioning some minor issues, acknowledged that the game generally runs without significant problems. However, there are notable negatives that have been pointed out by critics. On the Xbox Series X, COGconnected highlighted bugs related to quest elements not clearing, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the limited accessibility, graphics, and audio options available on this platform. For the Xbox One, the performance drops to 720p 30FPS, which may disappoint players expecting a smoother experience. On PC, while most critics reported a solid performance, PLAY! Zine mentioned occasional hitbox issues, and Softpedia noted the presence of minor glitches, suggesting that the game is not entirely free from flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Ravenlok performs well across platforms, there are some technical hiccups that need addressing. The Xbox Series X and S versions are particularly praised for their smooth performance, though bugs and limited options were noted as downsides. The PC version is lauded for its polished experience, but minor issues still exist. Critics like KeenGamer and MondoXbox provide a balanced view, recognizing the game's strengths while acknowledging areas for improvement. In summary, Ravenlok appears to be a solid title with commendable technical performance, albeit with some inconsistencies that developers may need to address in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ravenlok charms with its imaginative art and engaging gameplay, but critics overwhelmingly agree that its short playtime (3-6 hours) and minimal replay value make it a forgettable experience. While collectibles add some challenge, the lack of depth and incentives for replay render it more suitable for younger audiences. In short, its appeal fades quickly, leaving seasoned gamers wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

45%

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Ravenlok from various critics is predominantly negative, yet there are some positive aspects that stand out. Critics like Game Rant and GameGrin appreciate the game's charm and engaging gameplay, with the former noting that it is "filler-free and consistently entertaining." The imaginative art style and character design have also been highlighted as strong points, making the game enjoyable for experienced gamers, as mentioned by COGconnected. Additionally, the inclusion of collectibles, such as hats and rabbit-shaped figurines, adds an element of challenge and exploration, which some players may find appealing, as noted by MondoXbox and SomosXbox. However, the consensus among the critics is that Ravenlok suffers from limited replay value due to its short playtime, typically ranging from three to six hours. Critics like Gamereactor UK and Multiplayer.it emphasize that the game lacks incentives for players to return after completing it, with many suggesting that the narrative and gameplay do not offer enough depth to warrant a second playthrough. TrueGaming points out that while there are collectibles, they are easy to find, further diminishing the game's replayability. Critics also express concerns about the game's appeal, suggesting that it may be more suited for younger audiences, which limits its broader appeal. In summary, while Ravenlok presents a visually appealing and charming experience, the overall consensus among critics is that its short length and minimal replay value significantly hinder its long-term enjoyment. Critics such as CGMagazine and PLAY! Zine reinforce the notion that the game may be quickly forgotten by players, especially experienced ones who complete it in a single session. Ultimately, while the game has its merits, the lack of substantial content and replay incentives leaves many reviewers feeling that it may not stand the test of time in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Ravenlok from various critics highlights several positive aspects, particularly its visual appeal and engaging atmosphere. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Gamereactor UK, commend the game's stunning graphics and enchanting world, describing it as visually striking and charming. Critics like GAMES.CH and Press Start Australia appreciate the captivating story and whimsical presentation, noting that the game captures the spirit of a coming-of-age fantasy adventure. Additionally, several reviewers, including Game Rant and ZTGD, recognize its suitability for younger audiences and casual gamers, suggesting that it serves as a good introduction to the action RPG genre. However, despite the attractive visuals and charming narrative, Ravenlok faces significant criticism regarding its gameplay mechanics and overall depth. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and KeenGamer express disappointment with the simplistic combat and puzzles, indicating that the game lacks challenge and refinement. Critics like PC Gamer and Softpedia point out that the gameplay feels shallow and repetitive, with some even labeling it as an "environment art showcase" rather than a fully realized gaming experience. The consensus among many critics is that while the game may provide a brief and visually appealing escape, it ultimately falls short in delivering a satisfying and engaging experience. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Ravenlok is an enjoyable but flawed title. While it excels in visual design and offers a charming atmosphere, many reviewers, including Shacknews and XboxEra, agree that its lack of depth and challenge limits its appeal, especially for more experienced gamers. The game is often recommended for younger players or those seeking a casual gaming experience, as noted by critics like Multiplayer.it and Checkpoint Gaming. Ultimately, Ravenlok may find its niche among casual gamers and those drawn to its fairy tale aesthetics, but it may not resonate as strongly with those seeking a more complex and challenging adventure.

TL;DR

Ravenlok dazzles with its stunning visuals and whimsical charm, making it a delightful escape for younger audiences and casual gamers. However, it falters with shallow gameplay and simplistic mechanics, leaving experienced players wanting more depth and challenge. While enjoyable for its aesthetics, it’s ultimately seen as an “environment art showcase” rather than a fully realized gaming experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

50 reviews found

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 3, 2023

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

Ravenlok is a waltz through Wonderland that is well worth playing. It may lack depth and length, but its restlessly inventive design and beautiful graphics make up for it.

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Game Rant

Xbox Series X

May 3, 2023

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

Ravenlok is a short, easy game that is perfect for relaxation or as a starter game for kids. It is recommended for Xbox Game Pass subscribers.

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Softpedia

May 12, 2023

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

Ravenlok presents a collection of good ideas but ultimately fails to deliver on its promise due to shallow combat and a focus on fetch quests.

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GAMES.CH

Xbox Series X

May 8, 2023

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

Ravenlok is an ambitious game with a captivating story and enchanting visual design. It is a good choice for casual gamers or those new to the world of video games.

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CGMagazine

May 3, 2023

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

Overall, Ravenlok is an enjoyable but brief experience with stunning visuals and simple gameplay. It is recommended for those seeking a charming adventure, though it may feel shallow for some.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jun 9, 2023

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

Charming and visually stunning game with enjoyable gameplay, although lacking depth and difficulty. Can be enjoyed if you overlook its shortcomings.

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GameGrin

May 3, 2023

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

Ravenlok is a short and gorgeous title with simple gameplay design. Despite its length and lack of depth in the story, it is an enjoyable game with stunning visuals and charming characters.

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COGconnected

Xbox Series X

May 9, 2023

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

Ravenlok is a visually striking action RPG with a coherent narrative and engaging characters, suitable for young players and worth playing for experienced gamers despite its simplistic gameplay.

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GamingTrend

May 4, 2023

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

Ravenlok possesses the blueprint for a fantastic series inspired by novels and fairy tales. If Cococucumber expands on the narrative experience and strengthens the combat system in their next outing, wonderful adventures await.

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Gamereactor UK

Xbox Series X

May 23, 2023

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

Ravenlok is a short but highly enjoyable adventure with a great atmosphere, despite some flaws in the presentation.

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