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MONSTER

Scarlet Nexus

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

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableJun 25, 2021

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

DeveloperBandai Namco Games

Overview

In a far distant future, a psionic hormone was discovered in the human brain, granting people extra-sensory powers and changing the world as we know it. Just as humanity was entering this new era, deranged mutants known as Others began to descend from the sky with a thirst for human brains. Highly resistant to conventional attack methods, extreme measures needed to be taken to battle the overwhelming threat and preserve humanity. Those with acute extra-sensory abilities, known as psionics, were our chance to fight the onslaught from above. To this day, psionics have been scouted for their talents and recruited to the Other Suppression Force (OSF), humanity’s last line of defense. Take on the role of Yuito Sumeragi, a new recruit to the OSF aiming to become an elite psionic like the one who saved him as a child. Armed with a talent in psycho-kinesis, explore the futuristic city of New Himuka and uncover the mysteries of a Brain Punk future caught between technology and psychic abilities in SCARLET NEXUS.

Elsewhere

7.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus boasts a complex narrative praised for its dual protagonists and engaging plot twists, drawing comparisons to anime. However, critics highlight issues with cliché execution, excessive dialogue, and convoluted twists that hinder coherence and player engagement. While the story has potential and moments of brilliance, it ultimately falters due to uneven pacing and reliance on tropes, leaving some players dissatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the story of Scarlet Nexus reveal a multifaceted narrative that has garnered both praise and criticism. Several critics, including IGN and Atomix, highlight the complexity and depth of the narrative, particularly appreciating the dual protagonist approach with Yuito and Kasane, which allows for a rich exploration of themes such as camaraderie, betrayal, and sacrifice. Critics like Game Rant and XGN also commend the engaging plot twists and the intriguing world-building, noting that the story is full of surprises that keep players invested. The unique setting, where psionic powers are commonplace, adds an interesting layer to the storytelling, making it reminiscent of popular anime narratives, as pointed out by reviewers like Gamer.no and GamingAge. On the flip side, many critics express significant concerns about the story's execution. TierraGamer and Hardcore Gamer criticize it for being overly cliché and lacking depth, with many reviewers noting that the narrative becomes bogged down by excessive dialogue and pacing issues. GameSpot's multiple reviews emphasize the story's descent into convoluted plot twists and unresolved conflicts, leading to a lack of coherence that detracts from the overall experience. Critics such as WellPlayed and GamingBolt point out that the long, exposition-heavy sequences can hinder engagement, making it difficult for players to remain invested in the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Scarlet Nexus offers an intriguing premise and some engaging elements, the execution of its story leaves much to be desired. Many reviewers, including those from NME and PC Invasion, acknowledge the potential of the narrative but lament its reliance on clichés and uneven pacing. The dual narratives provide a unique angle, yet critics like VG247 and GameMAG indicate that the convoluted nature of the plot may alienate some players. Ultimately, Scarlet Nexus presents an ambitious story that, despite its flaws, has moments of brilliance that resonate with certain audiences, but struggles to maintain consistent engagement throughout its runtime.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus impresses with its dynamic combat that fuses psychokinesis and melee attacks, earning praise for creativity and tactical depth from critics. However, it faces criticism for repetitive gameplay and technical issues, like camera control. While its RPG elements feel underdeveloped, the engaging combat and character progression keep players hooked, making it a standout action RPG despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Scarlet Nexus has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its dynamic combat system that seamlessly integrates psychokinetic abilities and melee attacks. Reviewers such as IGN and GameSpot highlight the engaging nature of the combat, noting how the unique mechanics allow for creative expression and tactical depth. The ability to utilize environmental objects in battle adds an exciting layer to the gameplay, as pointed out by PlayStation LifeStyle and Jeuxvideo.com. Critics like God is a Geek and Finger Guns emphasize the satisfaction derived from mastering various abilities and executing combos, which contributes to a rewarding gameplay experience. Additionally, the character progression through the Brain Map skill tree and the interactions with squad members further enhance the overall engagement, making the combat feel fresh and enjoyable. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics have noted significant drawbacks that detract from the gameplay experience. Many reviews, including those from Gamers Heroes and Hardcore Gamer, mention issues with repetitiveness and a lack of depth in combat mechanics, suggesting that the gameplay can become monotonous over time. Critics like Push Square and Windows Central echoed similar sentiments, expressing that while the combat starts strong, it tends to lose its novelty as the game progresses. Furthermore, issues with camera control and enemy targeting, as highlighted by Hardcore Gamer, can lead to frustrating moments during combat. Some reviewers also pointed out that the RPG elements feel underdeveloped, which could limit the overall depth of the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Scarlet Nexus presents a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly with its innovative combat mechanics and the integration of psychokinesis. While there are valid criticisms regarding repetitiveness and some technical issues, the majority of reviewers, such as Game Informer and Gamer.no, agree that the game successfully delivers a dynamic and engaging action RPG experience. The blend of fast-paced combat, character abilities, and team dynamics creates a satisfying gameplay loop that keeps players invested, despite the noted shortcomings. In conclusion, while Scarlet Nexus may not be without its flaws, its strengths in combat and creativity resonate strongly with players and critics alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus dazzles with its striking anime-inspired graphics and creative character designs, earning praise for its vibrant visuals and immersive comic-book style. However, critics slam its repetitive, uninspired environments and lack of variety, calling them lifeless and basic. While the game excels in its aesthetic, the stark contrast between its engaging characters and bland settings leads to a mixed reception, highlighting a missed opportunity for a richer visual experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Scarlet Nexus have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly praising its unique artistic direction and anime-inspired aesthetics. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Destructoid, highlighted the stunning character designs and imaginative enemy visuals, with the latter noting the "disturbing and beautiful designs" of the Others. Critics like Gfinity and Digital Trends commended the stylish visuals that create an immersive environment, while GameGrin pointed out the beautifully realized futuristic world that blends modern and classic Japanese architecture. The game's vibrant color palette and engaging cutscenes, described as comic-book style by IGN Italia, further contribute to its appeal, making it a visually captivating experience. However, several reviewers pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's visual design, particularly concerning level design and environmental variety. Critics such as Hardcore Gamer and IGN expressed disappointment with the repetitive and uninspired environments, describing them as visually drab and lacking distinctiveness. LaPS4 echoed this sentiment, noting that while the frame rate and effects are stable, the overall design feels basic with limited animations and textures. Critics like PlayStation Universe and SpazioGames also mentioned that the environments often appear lifeless and recycled, detracting from the overall visual experience. This inconsistency between character and enemy designs versus the environments has led to a mixed reception. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Scarlet Nexus exhibits a striking and appealing visual style, particularly in character and enemy designs, it suffers from a lack of environmental variety and depth. Reviewers such as Vandal and Metro GameCentral recognized the game's strong anime aesthetic and bold color palette but noted that the world feels underdeveloped and linear. The game successfully captures the essence of its "brainpunk" theme, as described by New Game Network, yet many critics agree that the environments could have benefited from more creativity and distinction. This dichotomy between the game's strengths and weaknesses in visual design ultimately shapes the overall impression of Scarlet Nexus.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus impresses with its energetic soundtrack and immersive sound design, enhancing gameplay through quality voice acting. However, critics point out a lack of memorable and standout tracks, labeling parts of the music as generic and forgettable. While the audio experience is solid, it doesn't quite reach exceptional levels, leaving some players wanting more from a game of its caliber.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Scarlet Nexus have received a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting its ability to enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and PC Gamer, commend the soundtrack for its energetic and diverse range, noting how it effectively complements both combat and exploration. Critics like Hooked Gamers and GameSkinny appreciate the immersive sound design, with impactful sound effects that contribute to the game's atmosphere. The voice acting has also been well-received, with IGN and Cubed3 pointing out the quality of performances in both English and Japanese, which enrich the storytelling and character interactions. On the flip side, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the soundtrack's memorability and variety. Easy Allies and COGconnected describe portions of the music as generic and forgettable, with a lack of standout tracks that could elevate the overall experience. Gfinity echoed this sentiment, stating that while the soundtrack complements the game's aesthetic, it fails to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, some critics, like Generación Xbox and Ragequit.gr, noted that the sound design, while competent, does not stand out in a remarkable way, which may detract from the game's immersive qualities. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Scarlet Nexus offers a solid audio experience with some notable highlights, it also suffers from a lack of memorable music and variety. Critics like Destructoid and WellPlayed recognize that the soundtrack fits the game's vibe and enhances the experience, but many others, including Gfinity and COGconnected, feel that it ultimately falls short of being truly outstanding. This duality in opinions indicates that while the game’s sound design and music contribute positively to the gameplay, they do not consistently reach the heights that players might expect from a title of its caliber.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Scarlet Nexus is highly praised for its quality and character depth, with strong performances in both Japanese and English. Critics appreciate the choice of language and the talent of the cast, enhancing the narrative. However, issues like cringe-worthy sexism, mispronunciation of names, and occasional over-the-top delivery detract from the experience. While most reviewers celebrate the voice performances, notable flaws exist, leading to mixed overall impressions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Scarlet Nexus has been widely praised across multiple reviews, with critics noting the high quality of performances in both Japanese and English. Reviewers such as Areajugones and IGN highlighted how the voice acting adds depth to the characters, enhancing the overall narrative experience. Many critics, including Atomix and Finger Guns, appreciated the choice between Japanese and English voice acting, which allows players to immerse themselves in the game according to their preference. The cast is recognized for their talent, with several actors being familiar voices from other anime or game titles, which contributes positively to the character development and interactions. Overall, the voice acting is seen as a strong element of the game, with substantial contributions to the storytelling as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and GameMAG. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. COGconnected pointed out instances of cringe-inducing sexism in the dialogue, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, PlayStation LifeStyle criticized the English voice acting for its mispronunciation of Japanese names, which was viewed as disrespectful. Some reviewers, like Gamer.no and But Why Tho?, expressed that the voice acting could be over-the-top or annoying at times, potentially leading to a negative experience during dialogue-heavy sections. Furthermore, LevelUp noted that the extensive dialogue and cutscenes could make the performances feel repetitive, which may detract from their impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Scarlet Nexus is generally well-executed and enhances the game's narrative, there are notable inconsistencies and moments that detract from its quality. The majority of reviewers, including RPG Site and GameGrin, agree that the performances are strong and contribute positively to character development. However, the criticisms regarding specific performances and instances of awkward dialogue suggest that while the voice acting is a highlight, it is not without its flaws. The mixed reception indicates that while many players will likely enjoy the voice performances, some may find certain aspects less appealing, leading to a varied overall sentiment.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus impresses with smooth 60 FPS gameplay on PS5 and Xbox Series X, praised for quick loading times and immersive DualSense integration. However, technical flaws like crashes, menu frustrations, and imprecise mechanics mar the experience across platforms, especially on PS4, which struggles at 30 FPS. Despite these issues, critics agree the game showcases solid technical polish and engaging action, with hopes for future updates to address the shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Scarlet Nexus across various platforms has generally been well-received, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Reviewers like Areajugones, Atomix, and Finger Guns all emphasize the game's smooth operation at 60 frames per second, with minimal issues affecting gameplay. The PS5 version is praised for its effective use of the DualSense controller, contributing to an immersive experience. Critics such as Meristation and Vandal highlight the game's stability during intense action sequences, while GameMAG notes quick loading times. On the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox and WellPlayed commend the game for maintaining a stable 60 FPS in 4K with minimal loading times, showcasing excellent technical polish. The PC version also garners positive feedback, with GameGrin and PC Invasion noting smooth performance and high frame rates, indicating a well-optimized port. However, the reviews also reveal some technical shortcomings across platforms. On the PS5, Destructoid mentions frustrations with the item menu and camera, while Eurogamer Italy points out imprecise lock-on mechanics. Critics like Launcher report crashes and translation issues that detract from the overall experience. On the Xbox Series X, Game Rant notes multiple crashes, which may require future updates to address. Additionally, Xbox Tavern mentions occasional freezes and lag that disrupt the narrative experience. The PS4 version, as indicated by Attack of the Fanboy and CGMagazine, suffers from performance limitations, running at 30 FPS, which impacts combat fluidity and overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Scarlet Nexus delivers solid technical performance, particularly on next-gen consoles, with a stable frame rate and quick loading times being common highlights. While minor technical issues such as graphical pop-ins and occasional crashes were reported, they do not significantly overshadow the game's strengths. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are especially noted for their smooth gameplay, with only a few critics mentioning bugs that may affect the experience. In contrast, the PS4 version is seen as less favorable due to its performance constraints. This overall sentiment suggests that while Scarlet Nexus excels in many areas, there are still aspects that could benefit from further refinement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus garners positive reviews for its dual protagonist system and rich narrative, with critics praising its replay value from two distinct campaigns and a New Game+ mode. However, flaws like repetitive missions, lackluster side quests, and linear exploration dampen the experience. While many acknowledge the potential for replayability, the game's shortcomings may discourage players from diving back in, ultimately impacting overall enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Scarlet Nexus reflect a generally positive sentiment, especially in terms of its dual protagonist system and the narrative depth it offers. Many critics, such as Eurogamer Italy and Everyeye.it, highlight the significance of replayability stemming from the two distinct campaigns, which allow players to experience the story from different perspectives. This feature is further enriched by the inclusion of a New Game+ mode, as noted by IGN and Digital Trends, enabling players to carry over progress and unlock additional abilities. Critics like Gfinity and COGconnected also emphasize the engaging story and character interactions, which enhance the incentive for players to revisit the game for a more comprehensive understanding of the narrative. However, several reviews point out notable drawbacks that may hinder the overall replay value of Scarlet Nexus. Critics like TheGamer and Areajugones criticize the repetitive mission structure and lack of emotional depth in character interactions, suggesting that these elements detract from the overall experience. The side quests, often described as generic or uninteresting by reviewers such as Softpedia and Gamers' Temple, are seen as lacking meaningful rewards, which diminishes their appeal for players seeking additional content. Furthermore, the linearity of the game, mentioned by Meristation and RPGamer, could limit exploration and long-term engagement, making it difficult for players to remain invested after completing one or both campaigns. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Scarlet Nexus offers substantial replay value through its dual campaigns and character progression systems, it is marred by repetitive gameplay mechanics and a lack of engaging side content. Many reviewers, including Destructoid and GameSpot, acknowledge the potential for multiple playthroughs, yet caution that the game's repetitive nature may deter some players from fully exploring its offerings. Thus, while the game provides a solid foundation for replayability, the execution of its side content and mission design may leave players wanting more, ultimately affecting their overall enjoyment and willingness to replay.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Scarlet Nexus reveals a mixed but predominantly positive reception, particularly regarding its gameplay mechanics and visual presentation. Many critics highlight the engaging combat system, with reviewers like Noisy Pixel and IGN praising its evolution throughout the campaign, describing it as "awesome" and "highly enjoyable." The game is also noted for its captivating world and character design, which some critics, such as Digital Trends and Shindig, believe successfully embody the "brainpunk" aesthetic. The visuals have garnered acclaim for their quality, with multiple reviewers noting the stunning graphics that enhance the overall experience. Furthermore, titles like GameSpot and Eurogamer Italy commend the game for its intriguing narrative elements, despite acknowledging its flaws. However, Scarlet Nexus is not without its shortcomings, particularly in its storytelling and level design. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Push Square express disappointment in the game's narrative execution, describing it as "sloppy" and "confusing." The repetitive nature of gameplay and environments is a recurring theme in the reviews, with several critics, including TierraGamer and Gamers Heroes, pointing out that while the combat is enjoyable, the overall experience can feel monotonous. Additionally, some reviewers have noted technical issues and a lack of depth in side content, which detracts from the game's potential, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and Xbox Achievements. In summary, the consensus among critics suggests that while Scarlet Nexus offers an engaging and visually impressive experience, it struggles with narrative coherence and gameplay variety. Many reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and GameMAG, recommend the game for its strong combat mechanics and unique world, particularly for fans of the genre. However, the mixed feedback regarding its execution implies that players may find varying levels of satisfaction depending on their expectations, with some critics feeling that the game falls short of its ambitious goals. Overall, Scarlet Nexus stands out as a notable entry in the action RPG genre, yet it leaves room for improvement in future iterations.

TL;DR

Scarlet Nexus impresses with its engaging combat and stunning visuals, earning a generally positive reception for its "brainpunk" aesthetic and captivating world. However, it falters in storytelling and level design, with critics calling the narrative "sloppy" and gameplay repetitive. While many recommend it for its solid mechanics, the mixed feedback suggests expectations may shape satisfaction levels. Overall, it's a notable action RPG that needs refinement in future iterations.

MONSTER

Reviews

192 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 23, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is praised for its innovative gameplay, rich narrative, stunning visuals, and entertaining characters. It is considered one of the most interesting new JRPGs from a big publisher, offering a perfect new-generation experience.

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100

GameGrin

Jun 23, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is a standout title with addictive gameplay, a compelling narrative, and stunning visuals, making it one of the best games of the year.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jun 23, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is praised for its exceptional combat, deep story, engaging gameplay, gorgeous visuals, and satisfying ending, making it a complete package.

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Hooked Gamers

Jun 25, 2021

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

The review gives Scarlet Nexus a fun score of 9.2 and mentions the deep world and intuitive combat as pros, while noting the complex menu system as a con.

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Gaming Age

Xbox Series X

Jul 2, 2021

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

The reviewer states that even if you don't enjoy anime, you can still enjoy the game as a fun action game.

XGN

PlayStation 5

Jun 23, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is praised for its fast gameplay, intriguing story, and character interactions, though some side missions feel unnecessary.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jul 5, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is a standout title with a captivating story and dynamic combat, despite some minor flaws in RPG elements and world design.

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jun 28, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is highly recommended for ARPG fans, with a strong story and engaging action. Despite minor issues with side quests and cutscene saving, it is considered a solid entry in the genre.

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Shindig

PlayStation 5

Jun 24, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus truly lives up to its 'brainpunk' vision, offering a fascinating world, compelling story, and engaging gameplay that make it a standout title.

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Shacknews

PlayStation 5

Jun 25, 2021

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

Scarlet Nexus is a game worth experiencing, with surprising depth in both narrative and gameplay aspects.