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MONSTER

Sable

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

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Open World, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Single Player

AvailableSep 23, 2021

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperShed-Works

Overview

Sable is a coming-of-age tale of discovery through exploration across a strikingly rendered open world desert. Go on a deeply personal journey across an alien planet while learning its history and discovering Sable’s place in the world.

Elsewhere

6.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Sable impresses with its rich themes of self-discovery and exploration, earning praise for its coming-of-age narrative and environmental storytelling. Critics laud the game's character development and unique desert setting, but many note flaws in its scattered narrative and aimless quest design, leaving some players wanting more structure. Overall, while Sable offers a charming introspective journey, it struggles to fully engage those seeking a compelling storyline.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Sable has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its thematic depth and exploration of self-discovery. Reviewers like PlayStation Country and IGN highlight the coming-of-age narrative, emphasizing Sable's journey through The Gliding as a rite of passage that allows her to find her place in the world. Critics appreciate the environmental storytelling and character interactions that enrich the basic premise, with GamingBolt noting strong character development despite the absence of voice acting. The game's setting on a desert planet filled with masked individuals and remnants of sci-fi technology adds a unique flavor to the narrative, as noted by both Inverse and Metro GameCentral, who commend the game's focus on exploration and introspection. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's execution. Some reviewers, such as Gaming Age and Noisy Pixel, express disappointment with the narrative's scattered nature, claiming it lacks engagement and impactful interactions. Critics like VGC and TheGamer point out issues with quest structure and design, suggesting that the game often leaves players feeling aimless or confused. Additionally, while many appreciate the meditative quality of the game, some argue that the lack of a defined narrative can detract from the overall experience, as highlighted by IGN Italia's mention of lackluster missions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sable presents a charming and introspective journey centered on self-discovery and personal growth, though it is not without its flaws. The game's emphasis on exploration and environmental storytelling resonates well with many players, as noted by PC Gamer and Shacknews, who praise its warm and intimate world. However, the criticisms regarding narrative depth and quest design suggest that while Sable succeeds in creating a unique experience, it may not fully satisfy those looking for a more structured or engaging storyline.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sable impresses with its beautiful exploration and fluid movement mechanics, earning praise for its vast open world and meditative gameplay. Critics celebrate the game’s freedom to roam and discover. However, the lack of challenging puzzles, repetitive fetch quests, and absence of combat leave it feeling aimless and underwhelming for some players. Ultimately, while it captivates with atmosphere and exploration, Sable suffers from simplistic mechanics that may not satisfy those seeking depth in their adventure.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Sable has garnered a number of positive remarks from various critics, highlighting its emphasis on exploration and movement mechanics. Reviewers such as PlayStation Universe and Xbox Achievements praised the elegant movement system, which includes climbing, jumping, and the use of a customizable hoverbike, enhancing the overall experience of traversing the game's vast open world. Critics noted that the game encourages a meditative exploration style, allowing players to engage with diverse environments and interact with NPCs, as mentioned by Hobby Consolas and NME. The freedom to explore at one's own pace and the rewarding nature of discovery were frequently highlighted, with many reviewers, including PC Gamer and Guardian, appreciating the sense of adventure that the game evokes. However, despite the praise for its exploration and movement, many critics pointed out significant shortcomings in Sable's gameplay. A common critique is the lack of challenge in puzzles and quests, with Metro GameCentral and GamingBolt noting that the simplicity of the gameplay can lead to a repetitive experience. Tasks often revolve around fetch quests and basic environmental puzzles, which some reviewers, like Gaming Age and TheGamer, found to be lackluster and uninspired. The absence of combat and structured storytelling was also mentioned as a potential drawback, leading to a gameplay experience that some players may find directionless or aimless, as highlighted by critics such as SpazioGames and TheSixthAxis. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Sable offers a unique and visually captivating gameplay experience focused on exploration and self-expression, but it is hampered by a lack of depth and challenge in its quest design and puzzles. While many reviewers appreciate the game's tranquil atmosphere and the freedom it provides, they also recognize that its simplistic mechanics and repetitive tasks can detract from the overall enjoyment. Critics like IGN and PlayStation Country encapsulate this sentiment well, emphasizing that while the platforming and exploration are engaging, the lack of challenging content may leave some players wanting more from their adventure in the world of Sable.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sable wows with its stunning cel-shaded visuals, drawing comparisons to Moebius and Studio Ghibli. Critics rave about its gorgeous, immersive landscapes and vibrant color palette that create a captivating desert world. However, technical issues like frame rate drops and animation glitches mar the experience, occasionally hindering navigation. Despite these flaws, the consensus is clear: Sable shines as a visually striking indie title, celebrated for its artistic vision and unique design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Sable have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its unique artistic direction and aesthetic appeal. The game is celebrated for its distinctive cel-shaded style, which has been likened to the works of renowned artists such as Moebius and Studio Ghibli. Critics like Gaming Age and NME highlight the "gorgeous" and "dreamy" visuals that immerse players in a captivating desert world. The vibrant color palette, intricate details, and the combination of stark colors with surreal landscapes contribute to the game's charm, as noted by PlayStation Universe and VideoGamer. The ability to explore vast, beautifully crafted environments enhances the overall experience, with many reviewers, including PC Gamer and DualShockers, emphasizing the game's stunning visuals and attention to detail. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out technical shortcomings that detract from the overall visual experience. Issues such as frame rate drops, animation glitches, and occasional game freezes were noted by PlayStation Country and Xbox Achievements, which can disrupt immersion. Furthermore, some reviewers, like Metro GameCentral and GamingBolt, mentioned that while the art style is visually striking, it can sometimes sacrifice clarity and legibility, making navigation challenging. These technical issues, while not universally experienced, have been acknowledged by several critics and suggest that the game's ambitious visual design may come with some compromises. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sable boasts a remarkable visual design that successfully combines artistic inspiration with immersive world-building. The majority of reviewers, including IGN and God is a Geek, agree that the game's aesthetic is a significant strength, creating a visually stunning and engaging experience. While some technical issues and animation problems were noted, they do not overshadow the game's artistic achievements. Critics generally view Sable as a visually captivating title that stands out in the indie game landscape, earning it a favorable reputation for its unique graphics and design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sable's soundtrack, crafted by Japanese Breakfast, has received widespread acclaim for its evocative, ambient qualities that enhance the game’s immersive exploration experience. Critics praise its calming and meditative vibe, making it integral to gameplay. However, some note minor flaws, like occasional repetitiveness and misaligned sound cues. Overall, the music significantly enriches the gaming experience, adding emotional depth and complementing the visuals, solidifying its place as a standout feature.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Sable have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the evocative and immersive qualities of the soundtrack. Reviewers like Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player highlight the work of Japanese Breakfast, noting how the music complements the game's weird and desolate atmosphere. The soundtrack is described as "appropriately sparse" and "ambient," enhancing the meditative experience of exploration, as pointed out by critics such as Inverse and CGMagazine. The calming and soothing qualities of the music, which often includes minimalist and atmospheric tracks, have been recognized as essential in creating a tranquil gameplay experience, with PlayStation Country emphasizing how the soundtrack maintains a mellow vibe that aligns perfectly with the game's relaxing gameplay. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics did mention minor drawbacks. For instance, COGconnected pointed out that while the music is acoustic and understated, it can sometimes feel repetitive. Additionally, Screen Rant noted issues with sound cues occurring at inappropriate times, indicating that while the soundtrack is generally well-received, there are technical aspects of sound design that could benefit from refinement. TrueGaming also mentioned that the music, while beautiful, is somewhat limited in certain scenes, suggesting that there may be moments where the auditory experience does not fully engage the player. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Sable significantly enhance the game's overall experience. Many reviewers, including KeenGamer and Shacknews, emphasize the impact of the soundtrack on the game's narrative and emotional depth, with Japanese Breakfast's contributions being a standout feature. The music not only complements the visuals but also enriches the player's journey through the game's expansive world. With the majority of critics praising the soundtrack and sound design, it is clear that Sable successfully creates an immersive auditory landscape that resonates with players, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

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

Sable faces widespread criticism for serious technical issues across all platforms, including erratic frame rates, bugs, and crashes that hinder gameplay. While its artistic design and immersive world have received some praise, the persistent performance problems overshadow these positives. Critics agree that significant improvements are necessary for the game to reach its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech 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 technical performance.

The technical performance of Sable across various gaming platforms has garnered a mixed response from critics, with some positive notes amidst the overall critique. On the PlayStation 5, while PlayStation Country and PlayStation Universe noted issues like erratic frame rates and occasional hitches, they also acknowledged the game's artistic design and immersive world, which can still captivate players despite its technical shortcomings. On the Xbox Series X, although GAMINGbible mentioned framerate drops in larger areas, there was an acknowledgment from Xbox Achievements that the game's hypnotic exploration could compensate for these issues. On PC, some critics like Checkpoint Gaming and But Why Tho? pointed out that while there are minor bugs, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience, suggesting that the game still manages to deliver a cohesive and engaging environment. However, the negatives surrounding Sable's technical performance are substantial and widespread across all platforms. On the PS5, critics like Push Square and PlayStation Universe highlighted stuttering frame rates, bugs, and game freezes that disrupt gameplay, leading to a less enjoyable experience. The Xbox Series X reviews were particularly harsh, with multiple critics, including Metro GameCentral and NME, pointing out distracting bugs, glitches, and performance issues that seriously hinder immersion. On PC, the situation appears similarly problematic, with numerous reviewers such as Game Rant and KeenGamer detailing a range of technical issues, including frame rate drops, graphical glitches, and game crashes that significantly impact the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that Sable suffers from a range of technical issues that detract from its potential enjoyment. While the game's artistic vision and exploratory elements are praised, the persistent bugs and performance problems overshadow these positives. Critics like IGN have noted that the game is plagued by distracting glitches that hinder the experience, a sentiment echoed across various platforms. Despite some minor positive remarks regarding the immersive qualities of the game, the overwhelming feedback suggests that significant technical improvements are needed to elevate Sable to its full potential across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are split on Sable's replay value. Many praise its vast desert exploration and player choice, citing potential for multiple playthroughs. However, others criticize its lack of a compelling narrative and repetitive quests, arguing that it feels like a one-time experience. While it appeals to fans of exploration and personal storytelling, the game may not provide enough incentives for everyone to return.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Sable present a mix of positive sentiments among critics, particularly highlighting the game's emphasis on exploration and player choice. Many reviewers, such as NME and GamingTrend, appreciate the freedom to explore the vast desert world, suggesting that the open-ended gameplay encourages multiple playthroughs. Critics like Xbox Achievements and Windows Central note that while the main story can be completed relatively quickly, there are additional quests, collectibles, and masks to discover, which enhance the overall replay value. Furthermore, PlayStation Universe mentions that the game can be replayed for a fresh perspective, indicating that there is merit in revisiting the game's tranquil moments. Conversely, several critics express concerns regarding the lack of compelling reasons to replay the game. For instance, Hey Poor Player and Metro GameCentral point out that the absence of a structured story and tangible rewards may lead to a dispiriting experience, which could deter players from returning. Additionally, Noisy Pixel states that the game feels like a one-time experience, suggesting that the repetitive nature of quests and core activities, as highlighted by IGN, may limit the overall replayability. This sentiment is echoed by critics like GameSkinny, who note that while the game offers an open-ended experience, the lack of substantial content could hinder replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of Sable is mixed. While many reviewers appreciate the freedom to explore and the potential for player-driven narratives, others highlight the limitations imposed by repetitive gameplay and a lack of structured objectives. Critics such as PC Gamer and The Indie Game Website emphasize the game's focus on exploration and customization as factors that could enhance replayability, but this is countered by concerns from others about the game's overall depth. In conclusion, Sable seems to cater to a specific audience that values exploration and personal storytelling, but it may not offer enough incentive for all players to engage in multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Sable" from various critics highlights its striking visual artistry and immersive atmosphere. Many reviewers, including PlayStation Universe and NME, emphasize the game's unique aesthetic and captivating soundtrack, which contribute to a serene and meditative experience. Critics like Windows Central and Gaming Age appreciate the strong narrative structure and the game's focus on exploration, suggesting that it offers a refreshing break from conventional gameplay. The personal journey and self-discovery elements resonate well with players, as noted by Inverse and Metro GameCentral, who describe the game as an unforgettable adventure that fosters a deep connection with the player. However, the critiques are not without their concerns. A significant number of reviewers, such as PlayStation Country and GamingBolt, point out that "Sable" suffers from technical issues that can detract from the overall experience. Many critics, including IGN and Slant Magazine, mention the game's repetitive quest design and lack of challenge, which can lead to feelings of emptiness and frustration. The absence of meaningful progression and engaging gameplay mechanics is a common theme, as highlighted by critics like TheSixthAxis and VGC, who express disappointment in the game's failure to fully capitalize on its promising premise. In summary, while "Sable" is celebrated for its breathtaking visuals and enchanting atmosphere, the consensus among critics is that it falls short in terms of gameplay depth and technical execution. Despite its flaws, many reviewers, including those from Game Informer and Shacknews, recommend the game for its unique exploration experience and artistic merit. The overall sentiment suggests that "Sable" is a worthwhile endeavor for players seeking a tranquil and introspective journey, but they may want to wait for patches to address the technical shortcomings before diving in.

TL;DR

"Sable" dazzles with stunning visuals and an immersive soundtrack, offering a unique, meditative exploration experience. Critics laud its narrative and personal journey, but many warn of technical flaws, repetitive quests, and lack of engaging gameplay. While it's a beautiful, introspective adventure, players might want to hold off until patches address its shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 reviews found

PC Gamer

Sep 22, 2021