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MONSTER

Road 96

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Road 96
Item: Road 96
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Puzzle and Logic, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableAug 16, 2021

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperDigixart Entertainment

Overview

Road 96 is a crazy, beautiful road-trip. The discovery of exciting places, and unusual people on your own personal journey to freedom. An ever-evolving story-driven adventure inspired by Tarantino, The Coen Brothers, and Bong Joon-ho. Moments of action, exploration, contemplative melancholy, human encounters and wacky situations. Set against a backdrop of authoritarian rule and oppression. A stunning visual style, a soundtrack filled with 90s hits, and a thousand routes through the game combine so each player can create their own unique stories on Road 96.

Elsewhere

7.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Road 96 has received praise for its engaging narrative set in politically turbulent Petria, with strong character development and emotional depth. Critics commend its blend of personal and political themes, enhanced by charm and humor. However, some note linear storytelling and heavy-handed political allegories detract from its impact. Overall, while it has execution flaws, the game resonates with players, particularly younger audiences, and offers replayability through its dynamic narrative choices.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Road 96 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its compelling narrative set against a backdrop of political turmoil in the fictional country of Petria. Many reviewers, such as IGN and PC Games, highlight the game's ability to intertwine personal struggles with broader political themes, making the characters' journeys feel impactful and relevant. The narrative is praised for its depth, with well-developed characters and their emotional backstories contributing to a rich storytelling experience. Critics like GamingTrend and Pure Xbox appreciate the charm and humor infused into the characters, which helps to balance the serious subject matter of escaping an authoritarian regime. The procedural nature of the narrative, as described by critics like GamesHub, adds an element of unpredictability that enhances the overall engagement with the story. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics express concerns about the execution of the narrative. GameMAG and PlayStation LifeStyle point out that the story can feel linear at times, lacking the meaningful player choices that would elevate the experience. Additionally, several reviewers, including GameSkinny and Riot Pixels, note that while the game tackles significant themes, the execution can sometimes feel muddled or overly simplistic, reminiscent of young adult literature. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and The Indie Game Website argue that the political allegories can be heavy-handed, detracting from the immersive experience that the game aims to provide. These critiques suggest that while the story has strong potential, it sometimes falls short in delivering a nuanced exploration of its themes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Road 96 presents a captivating narrative that resonates with players, particularly younger audiences grappling with political issues. The majority of reviewers, including Twinfinite and MGG Spain, recognize the game's strengths in character development and the emotional weight of the story, despite acknowledging some flaws in its execution. The dynamic nature of the narrative, as emphasized by critics like COGconnected, allows for varied outcomes based on player choices, enhancing the replayability and engagement of the game. In summary, while there are criticisms regarding the depth and complexity of the storytelling, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive appreciation of Road 96's narrative and its ability to provoke thought about real-world political struggles.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Road 96 delivers a mixed bag: critics laud its procedural generation and impactful decision-making, which create unique narratives and engaging mini-games. However, it suffers from clunky controls, repetitive gameplay, and shallow dialogue choices, leading to a predictable experience. While it captivates some players with its thought-provoking journey, many call for improvements to enhance gameplay variety and depth. Overall, it’s an intriguing concept that falters in execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Road 96 has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several positive aspects highlighted across various reviews. Many reviewers appreciate the game's procedural generation, which allows for unique experiences in each playthrough, as noted by Gamepressure and MondoXbox. The decision-making mechanics are frequently praised, with critics like Shacknews and PlayStation Universe noting that player choices significantly influence character interactions and narrative outcomes. Additionally, the variety of mini-games and activities integrated into the gameplay, as mentioned by God is a Geek and IGN, adds a layer of engagement that many players find enjoyable. The narrative depth and character development also receive commendation, with KeenGamer emphasizing how choices matter in shaping the journey. Conversely, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay experience. A common critique is the clunky mechanics and imprecise controls, as highlighted by RPG Fan and Nintendo Enthusiast, which detract from the overall enjoyment. The repetitiveness of mini-games and the lack of depth in dialogue choices are also noted by multiple reviewers, including Twinfinite and Cubed3, leading to a sense of monotony over time. Moreover, some critics, such as GameMAG and PlayStation LifeStyle, argue that the impact of player choices is often minimal, resulting in a predictable narrative that undermines the game's potential for meaningful engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Road 96 offers a unique and engaging premise with its procedural narrative and decision-making elements, it falls short in execution due to mechanical issues and repetitive gameplay. Critics like TheGamer and Digital Chumps express a desire for greater variety and depth in gameplay mechanics, suggesting that the game could benefit from refinements to enhance player agency and enjoyment. Despite its flaws, the game has succeeded in creating a thought-provoking experience that resonates with players who appreciate narrative-driven adventures, but the execution leaves room for improvement.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Road 96 wows with its vibrant 90s-inspired visuals and striking character art, praised for enhancing the narrative. However, technical flaws like poor graphics on the Nintendo Switch, stiff animations, and texture issues mar the experience. While the game’s artistic charm shines, inconsistent execution across platforms dampens immersion, leaving critics divided.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Road 96 have garnered a range of opinions, with several critics praising its artistic direction and vibrant aesthetics. Many reviewers, such as PSX Brasil and PlayStation Universe, highlight the game's striking character art and colorful environments that evoke a nostalgic 90s vibe. Critics like Gamer.no and Cubed3 noted that the colorful designs and well-crafted environments contribute positively to the overall experience, enhancing the narrative through their unique visual style. Additionally, Shacknews commended the effective use of color and lighting, which brings the environments to life, while GamingTrend appreciated the visuals as fitting for the 90s aesthetic, further emphasizing the game's thematic resonance. However, the visuals are not without their shortcomings, as many reviewers pointed out various technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Nintendo Enthusiast noted that the graphics on the Nintendo Switch are particularly inferior, suffering from severe aliasing, pop-in issues, and a lack of detail in environments. Additionally, Gamer.no and Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that some animations are stiff, which can break immersion. The limitations of the graphics engine were also highlighted by TheXboxHub, who pointed out that reused environments and texture quality issues could detract from the visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Road 96 boasts a distinctive and engaging visual style, it is marred by inconsistencies and technical limitations, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Reviewers like IGN and Hardcore Gamer recognized the game's charm and effective use of color and lighting, but many echoed concerns about graphical fidelity and animation quality. Critics such as MondoXbox and Vandal noted the appeal of the art style, yet acknowledged the presence of graphical inconsistencies that could hinder immersion. Ultimately, Road 96 presents a mixed visual experience that resonates well with its themes but struggles with execution across different platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and eclectic '90s-inspired soundtrack of Road 96, praising its emotional depth and immersive gameplay through collectible cassette tapes. However, some note it lacks standout tracks and can become repetitive, indicating room for improvement. Overall, the audio elements are celebrated as a key strength that enhances the game's charm and narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Road 96 have garnered considerable praise from various critics, with a strong consensus that the audio elements significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers highlighted the eclectic and nostalgic soundtrack, which features a mix of genres, including folk, synthwave, and pop from the '90s. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and Eurogamer Italy noted that the soundtrack effectively captures the essence of the era, while others, such as IGN Spain and Hardcore Gamer, emphasized how the music elevates the emotional depth of the narrative. The inclusion of collectible cassette tapes, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it and Gamer.no, adds an engaging layer to the gameplay, allowing players to curate their own audio experience throughout their journey. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Gaming Age remarked that while the soundtrack is solid, it lacks standout tracks that are particularly memorable. KeenGamer echoed this sentiment by noting that while the individual songs are enjoyable, the overall mix lacks cohesiveness. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that the soundtrack becomes repetitive over time, which could detract from the immersive experience. These criticisms suggest that while the music is generally well-received, there are areas where it could have been more impactful or varied. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Road 96. Most reviewers, including Pocket Tactics and Checkpoint Gaming, agree that the audio elements play a crucial role in enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional resonance. While there are some critiques regarding the cohesiveness and memorability of the soundtrack, the majority of critics appreciate the variety and quality of the music, as well as the effective voice acting that complements the narrative. Overall, the audio experience in Road 96 is considered a strong asset that contributes significantly to the game's charm and storytelling.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Road 96" features standout voice acting that enhances emotional depth and character authenticity, earning praise for its ability to create genuine interactions. However, critics also highlight significant inconsistencies, with some performances feeling uncanny and lacking emotion. While many characters resonate, uneven delivery and stilted dialogue detract from the overall experience, indicating a need for improvement in future iterations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Road 96" has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the performances for their ability to enhance the emotional depth of the narrative and bring the characters to life. For instance, COGconnected noted that the voice acting contributes significantly to the authenticity of the characters, while Hardcore Gamer emphasized how the top-notch performances elevate the diverse cast. Similarly, Player 2 highlighted that the impeccably voiced characters make interactions feel genuine and human, and PSX Brasil pointed out that the emotional weight is conveyed more through audio than visuals, underscoring the importance of voice acting in the game’s storytelling. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting's inconsistency. Critics like GamingTrend described the performances as uncanny and lacking emotion, while Impulsegamer remarked that the quality can be hit or miss. Digital Chumps mentioned moments of over-the-top acting, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Gameblog.fr pointed out a lack of depth in the voice performances, which can affect players' connections with the characters. This sentiment is echoed by other reviewers who noted stilted dialogue and uneven delivery, suggesting that while some performances shine, others may fall flat. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in "Road 96" has its strengths, particularly in enhancing character depth and emotional engagement, it is marred by inconsistencies that can detract from the overall experience. Critics like KeenGamer and Worth Playing praised the excellent quality of the voice acting, yet many others pointed out issues with unevenness and stilted dialogue. Thus, while the game features memorable and well-developed characters, the voice acting's variability leaves room for improvement, suggesting that future iterations could benefit from a more consistent approach to performance quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Road 96 performs well on PS5 and Xbox Series X with stable 60fps and quick loading times, despite minor issues. However, the Nintendo Switch version suffers severely from inconsistent frame rates and bugs, making it a poor choice. PC performance is generally decent but plagued by technical glitches. Overall, strong console experiences are overshadowed by significant shortcomings on the Switch and optimization problems on PC.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The technical performance of Road 96 across various gaming platforms presents a mixed bag of experiences. On the PlayStation 5, critics like PSX Brasil noted that the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second with quick loading times, suggesting a solid performance overall. Digital Chumps also acknowledged improved load times on newer consoles, while some reviewers, such as Push Square, mentioned that the game runs decently despite minor texture pop-in issues. On the Xbox Series X, both SomosXbox and Generación Xbox reported stable performance, with the game maintaining a consistent 60fps, which is commendable for a first-person experience. On PC, several reviews, including those from SpazioGames and Hardcore Gamer, praised the game for running well overall, with minor technical issues that did not significantly detract from the gameplay. However, there are notable technical issues across all platforms that critics have highlighted. On the PS5, COGconnected and GamersRD pointed out various technical and structural issues, including rough transitions and graphical problems that slightly detract from the experience. The Nintendo Switch version faces more severe criticism, with multiple reviewers like COGconnected and New Game Network citing inconsistent frame rates, long loading times, and even bugs that can lead to loss of progress. Critics such as Nintendo Enthusiast and Nintenderos echoed these sentiments, pointing out that the game struggles with performance issues, particularly in portable mode, where frame rate drops and graphical fidelity are more pronounced. On PC, while the performance is generally stable, some critics like GameMAG and PC Games noted optimization problems and glitches that can disrupt gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Road 96 delivers a commendable experience on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, with stable frame rates and quick loading times, though some minor issues exist. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from significant technical shortcomings that affect immersion and gameplay, making it a less favorable option. On PC, while the game runs adequately, it is marred by various technical issues that could impact the overall enjoyment. The mixed responses suggest that while the game has its strengths, particularly on more powerful consoles, it struggles to maintain a consistent performance across all platforms, especially on the Switch, where technical flaws are more pronounced.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Road 96 impresses with its procedural generation and branching narratives, enticing players to explore multiple playthroughs, with critics citing the potential for diverse outcomes. However, many also flag issues with repetitiveness and diminishing choices, suggesting that after the initial thrill, the game risks becoming monotonous. Overall, it's a mixed bag: intriguing but potentially less replayable than hoped.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Road 96 reveal a notable appreciation for its procedural generation and narrative structure, which many critics highlight as key elements that encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics like Hobby Consolas and IGN emphasize that the game’s procedural nature allows players to experience different outcomes and character interactions, enhancing replayability. The game is praised for its ability to provide unique experiences with each run, with IGN noting that there are around a thousand potential routes to explore. Additionally, several reviewers, such as Multiplayer.it and Digital Chumps, mention the significance of branching narratives and the impact of player choices, which contribute to a sense of discovery and engagement with the story. However, a substantial number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value being undermined by repetitiveness and a lack of meaningful choices in subsequent playthroughs. Starbit and PlayStation LifeStyle point out that the repetitive nature of certain sequences can lead to a feeling of monotony, diminishing the overall experience after the first playthrough. Other critics, like Cubed3 and Riot Pixels, echo this sentiment, stating that while the game may offer different character interactions, the experience can become predictable and less immersive as players progress. The consensus among these critics suggests that the game’s replayability is hindered by the recurrence of events and limited character depth, which can lead to a sense of déjà vu. Overall, the critics provide a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Road 96. While many acknowledge the potential for varied experiences and the enjoyment of exploring different narrative paths, a significant number also highlight the limitations posed by repetitive content and the diminishing impact of choices over time. Critics such as KeenGamer and Gamer.no suggest that while the game encourages multiple playthroughs, the excitement of discovery may fade, making it less replayable than initially anticipated. In summary, Road 96 presents an intriguing mix of replayability potential and repetitive elements, leading to a divided opinion among reviewers about its long-term appeal.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Road 96 from various critics showcases a range of positive elements that highlight its narrative depth and engaging gameplay. Many reviewers, such as DualShockers and Player 2, commend the game for its compelling storytelling and emotional resonance, with Player 2 noting its effective tackling of political themes through character-driven narratives. Critics like Pocket Tactics and Digital Chumps also emphasize the game’s unique structure and the memorable characters that enhance the experience, making it a noteworthy title for fans of narrative-driven games. The atmospheric design and captivating soundtrack are frequently praised, with IGN Spain labeling it as one of the best indie games of the year for its thought-provoking content. However, several criticisms arise regarding the game's execution and technical aspects. Reviewers such as GameMAG and GAMES.CH express disappointment in the game's coherence and depth, suggesting that it often falls short of its ambitious goals. Technical issues, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, are a common point of contention, with critics like Nintendo Enthusiast and Starbit highlighting performance problems that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and Hey Poor Player, note the repetitive nature of gameplay and the lack of substantial political depth, which can undermine the impact of the game's narrative. In summary, while Road 96 is recognized for its engaging storytelling and unique narrative approach, it is also critiqued for its technical shortcomings and occasional lack of depth. The overall consensus among critics leans towards a mixed reception, with many acknowledging its potential and emotional weight, yet pointing out that it could benefit from refinement in gameplay and coherence. Critics like SpazioGames and XboxEra encapsulate this sentiment, suggesting that the game is worthwhile for those who appreciate narrative experiences, despite its flaws. Ultimately, Road 96 emerges as a compelling, albeit imperfect, journey that resonates with a diverse audience.

TL;DR

Road 96 impresses with its rich storytelling, emotional depth, and memorable characters, earning praise as a standout indie game, especially for fans of narrative-driven content. Critics highlight its unique structure and atmospheric design, with some dubbing it one of the best of the year. However, technical issues—especially on the Nintendo Switch—and a lack of gameplay depth raise concerns, leading to a mixed reception. While it captivates with its themes and narrative ambition, it struggles with execution, leaving it a compelling but flawed experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

126 reviews found

100

Player 2

Aug 22, 2021

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

Road 96 is a powerful narrative experience that effectively tackles political themes through engaging gameplay and character-driven storytelling. Its unique structure and emotional depth make it a standout title.

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100

NME

Aug 16, 2021

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

Road 96 is praised for its unpredictable and engaging road trip narrative, with strong character interactions and gameplay variety, though it could benefit from deeper political context.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Apr 26, 2022

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

Overall, Road 96 is an incredible and fascinating experience that is worth exploring, despite some graphical shortcomings.

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Hardcore Gamer

Aug 17, 2021

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

Road 96 is an incredible adventure game that combines a strong narrative, memorable characters, an outstanding soundtrack, and a unique gameplay approach, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Apr 13, 2022

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

Road 96 is praised for its emotive storytelling and engaging gameplay, though it is noted that the experience could be longer. It is considered essential for players seeking a unique narrative-driven game.

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Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Apr 26, 2022

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

Road 96 is praised as a masterpiece in storytelling, with a close-to-perfect story that evokes empathy and explores themes of hope, loss, and personal freedom. While not mechanically perfect, it is highly recommended.

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Worth Playing

Aug 16, 2021

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

Road 96 is a well-crafted narrative-driven game that balances humor, horror, and thought-provoking themes. It successfully engages players with its storytelling and gameplay mechanics, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.

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God is a Geek

Aug 16, 2021

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

Road 96 is a fantastic choice for those looking for something a little different. It tells a poignant story, has great gameplay, interesting characters, and a great soundtrack. Occasional screen tearing is a minor issue.

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IGN Spain

Aug 16, 2021

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

Road 96 is praised as one of the best indie games of the year, offering a thought-provoking experience that encourages reflection on personal and societal issues.

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Screen Rant

PlayStation 5

Apr 14, 2022

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

Road 96 is a fascinating, compelling, and fantastic game that offers a replayable experience. It is worth exploring and has been well-received on multiple platforms.

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