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MONSTER

SCHiM

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

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Platformer, Artistic, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Casual, Single Player

AvailableJul 18, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperEwoud van der Werf

Overview

Schim is a game about jumping through shades in a challenging and lively environment, touch the light and it's over! This fast-paced 3D platformer takes elements of light & animation and adds them directly to the gameplay, delivering an experience that you will only find in Schim.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

SCHiM impresses with its unique nonverbal storytelling and emotional depth, capturing themes of childhood and loss through charming visuals and a whimsical soundtrack. However, critics argue its narrative lacks coherence and depth, leaving players feeling aimless as the story loses impact over time. While the game showcases creativity, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently engaging experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The story of SCHiM has garnered a mix of praise for its unique approach to narrative and emotional themes. Critics like Digital Chumps and TheSixthAxis highlight the game's nonverbal storytelling, which effectively conveys the emotional journey of a shadow creature seeking to reunite with its human companion. The use of environmental storytelling and a whimsical soundtrack enhances the emotional resonance, as noted by reviewers such as Nintendo Life and God is a Geek, who appreciate the charm and heartwarming aspects of the narrative. Additionally, some critics, including Generación Xbox and XboxEra, commend the game for exploring deeper themes such as childhood, loss, and even midlife crises, suggesting that the story resonates with universal human experiences. However, the narrative has also faced significant criticism for its lack of depth and coherence. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Power Unlimited argue that the minimal storytelling leaves players feeling aimless, with the narrative often feeling disconnected from the gameplay. Critics such as GAMINGbible and Vgames express disappointment in the emotional depth, stating that while the game starts strong, it loses its impact as the story progresses. The inconsistency in the narrative structure is a common point of contention, with many critics, including Pure Nintendo and GameSpew, noting that the story can feel loose and frustrating, failing to engage players fully. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while SCHiM presents a charming and innovative narrative through its unique visual storytelling, it ultimately struggles with depth and coherence. Many reviewers appreciate the emotional themes and the whimsical nature of the story, as seen in the insights of TheXboxHub and Try Hard Guides. However, the frequent criticisms regarding the narrative's minimalism and lack of engagement suggest that the game's storytelling could have benefited from a more structured and developed approach. Thus, SCHiM stands as a creative endeavor with potential but falls short of delivering a consistently impactful narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

SCHiM impresses with its creative shadow-navigation mechanics and charming 3D platforming, winning praise for fluid controls and unique puzzle-solving. However, many critics flag its repetitiveness and lack of challenge, leading to a monotonous experience. While visually appealing, the game struggles with depth and clear objectives, ultimately falling short of delivering a consistently engaging gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The gameplay of SCHiM has garnered a mix of appreciation for its unique mechanics and engaging design elements. Critics such as Digital Chumps and TouchArcade highlight the creative puzzle-solving aspects and the charming 3D platforming experience, which is built around the innovative concept of navigating shadows. The game is praised for its fluid controls and environmental interactions, as noted by GameGrin and PlayStation Universe, who appreciate the depth added by optional extras and environmental manipulation. Furthermore, Metro GameCentral describes the gameplay as mellow and meditative, suggesting that the experience can be enjoyable for players seeking a more relaxed gaming atmosphere. However, a significant number of reviewers express concerns regarding the gameplay's repetitiveness and lack of challenge. Critics like CD-Action and Cubed3 point out that the core mechanic of jumping between shadows quickly becomes monotonous and simplistic, failing to evolve over time. Many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and God is a Geek, echo this sentiment, noting that while the game offers a charming aesthetic, it often lacks depth and can feel tedious. The criticisms extend to issues such as poor communication of objectives and unclear navigation, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and GameSpew, which can lead to frustration among players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while SCHiM presents a novel concept and a visually appealing experience, it ultimately falls short in terms of gameplay depth and challenge. The repetitive nature of the core mechanics, as highlighted by multiple reviewers, detracts from the overall enjoyment of the game. Critics like XboxEra and Power Unlimited emphasize that despite the initial charm, the gameplay can become tedious and lacks the necessary evolution to keep players engaged. Thus, while SCHiM has its merits, it appears to struggle in delivering a consistently rewarding gaming experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

SCHiM's visuals are a standout, praised for its charming neo-impressionist design and captivating duotone style that brings a French city to life. Critics celebrate its smooth animations and effective color palettes, creating an immersive atmosphere. However, some note a lack of variety in levels and detail in character designs. Overall, despite minor flaws, SCHiM is hailed as a visually genius indie title that enhances gameplay and captivates players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of SCHiM have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the game's unique and charming aesthetic. Many reviewers, such as CD-Action and Digital Chumps, praise the beautiful art design, which features a neo-impressionist style that vividly showcases a French city. The striking duotone visual style noted by Cubed3 and GAMINGbible, characterized by bold black lines and minimalist visuals, adds to the game's appeal, creating a visually captivating experience. Critics like Nintendo Life and TheSixthAxis commend the smooth animations and elegant art style, which not only enhance the storytelling but also immerse players in the game's atmosphere. The use of color palettes, as observed by TrueGaming and GameGrin, effectively sets the tone and mood for each level, contributing to the overall beauty of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out areas where the visual design may fall short. For instance, PC Gamer mentions that certain levels lack variety and can feel generic, which detracts from the otherwise vibrant experience. Additionally, while the minimalist aesthetic is praised by many, some reviewers, like Impulsegamer and Gameliner, suggest that it may lead to moments of visual simplicity that could be perceived as overly sparse. Furthermore, while the unique art style is generally well-received, Softpedia notes that character designs lack detail, which could leave some players wanting more depth in the visual representation of characters. Overall, the consensus among critics is that SCHiM excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its unique and engaging aesthetic. The combination of charming visuals, effective use of color, and smooth animations create an immersive experience that resonates with players. While there are minor criticisms regarding the lack of variety in some levels and character detail, these do not significantly detract from the game's overall visual appeal. As highlighted by critics like TouchArcade and PlayStation Universe, SCHiM presents a visually genius design that enhances gameplay and captivates players, solidifying its reputation as a standout title in the realm of indie games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

SCHiM's sound design and music have received rave reviews for enhancing gameplay and creating an immersive atmosphere. Critics praise its relaxing soundtrack and effective sound effects, noting Wayne June's narration as a highlight. However, some point out the music's simplicity and lack of depth. Overall, the audio elements contribute positively to the game's charm and emotional connection, fostering a zen-like experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of SCHiM have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from various critics across different platforms. Many reviewers, such as CD-Action and Digital Chumps, praised the soundtrack for its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere and emotional connection. Critics like Nintendo Life and TheSixthAxis highlighted the relaxing and soothing qualities of the music, which they found complemented the gameplay beautifully. The minimalistic score noted by Impulsegamer and the well-crafted sound effects mentioned by GAMINGbible further contributed to an enjoyable gaming experience. The overall sentiment reflects a consensus that the audio elements, including Wayne June's narration as pointed out by God is a Geek, effectively immerse players in the game's world. However, there are some criticisms regarding the soundtrack's depth and impact. Vgames described the music as "very basic," suggesting that it may not contribute significantly to the overall experience. Additionally, GameCritics pointed out the absence of spoken dialogue and traditional sound design elements, which could detract from the richness of the audio experience. While some critics appreciated the chill and relaxing nature of the soundtrack, others felt it lacked the complexity or memorability that could elevate the game's audio experience further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that SCHiM features a well-executed sound design and music that enhances the gameplay experience, creating a calming and immersive atmosphere. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the soundtrack's ability to complement the visuals and gameplay, with many critics noting its effectiveness in fostering a zen-like trance, as highlighted by PlayStation Universe and COGconnected. While there are some critiques regarding the simplicity of the music, the prevailing sentiment is that the audio elements contribute positively to the overall charm and enjoyment of SCHiM.

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

SCHiM shines on Xbox Series X and PC with solid performance—60 FPS on Xbox and 90fps on Steam Deck. However, the Nintendo Switch suffers from serious technical flaws, like camera control and level design issues, leading to a mixed reception. While the PS5 holds up okay, overall performance varies significantly across platforms, leaving Switch users especially frustrated.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The technical performance of SCHiM across various gaming platforms showcases a mix of positive experiences, particularly on the Xbox Series X and PC. Critics such as Generación Xbox and XboxEra highlighted that the game runs smoothly on Xbox Series X, maintaining a stable 60 FPS with no reported bugs or visual errors, indicating good optimization. Additionally, TouchArcade praised the game's performance on Steam Deck, noting it runs perfectly at 90fps. On PC, while some reviewers like GameGrin found only a few minor issues, Power Unlimited implied stability by not mentioning any problems, suggesting an overall satisfactory experience. However, the Nintendo Switch version has drawn mixed reactions, with several critics pointing out notable technical issues. Cubed3 reported camera control problems in handheld mode, while TrueGaming mentioned visibility issues due to poor level design for the isometric perspective. Pure Nintendo echoed frustrations with occasional breaks in gameplay, although they noted that death isn’t too punishing. On PC, Gameliner discussed camera control and navigation issues, while PC Gamer experienced a significant problem with lost progress, raising concerns about stability. Softpedia also pointed out camera control issues on PS5, alongside inaccuracies with moving shadows, which detracted from gameplay precision. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while SCHiM performs well on Xbox Series X and has some positive experiences on PC, the Nintendo Switch version faces considerable technical challenges that impact gameplay. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Impulsegamer found the Switch version to be well-made and stable, but the issues raised by others, such as camera controls and level design flaws, suggest that the experience is inconsistent. The PS5 version appears to be stable, albeit with some noted concerns, while the PC version shows a mix of stability and issues that could affect player satisfaction. Thus, while there are commendable aspects across platforms, the technical performance of SCHiM is notably variable, particularly on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are split on SCHiM's replay value. Some praise its hidden secrets and optional challenges that invite exploration, while many lament its short length (3-4 hours), repetitive design, and lack of engaging content, leading to a low incentive for multiple playthroughs. Overall, it may thrill completionists but fails to sustain long-term interest.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of SCHiM highlight some positive aspects that may appeal to certain players. Several reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and TheSixthAxis, emphasize the game's hidden secrets and optional objectives that encourage exploration and replayability. Critics like COGconnected and PlayStation Universe also note that the game offers incentives to revisit stages for collectibles and deeper understanding, suggesting that players who enjoy thorough exploration might find value in returning to the game. Additionally, options for increased difficulty and varied level designs, as mentioned by Gameliner and TrueGaming, provide some players with reasons to replay the game, especially for those seeking a challenge. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's overall replay value. CD-Action and PC Gamer point out that the lack of engaging content and depth diminishes the incentive to replay SCHiM beyond initial completion. Many reviewers, including Generación Xbox and XboxEra, highlight the game's short length—around three to four hours—and repetitive nature, suggesting that these factors contribute to a low replay value. Critics like Pure Nintendo and Softpedia also mention that while there are challenges and collectibles, the inconsistency in tone and repetitive level design can detract from the overall experience, making it less appealing for repeated playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of SCHiM. While some players may appreciate the hidden collectibles and optional challenges, many reviewers agree that the game lacks sufficient depth and variety to encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics such as God is a Geek and Power Unlimited emphasize that the game may be enjoyable in shorter bursts but ultimately does not offer enough compelling content to sustain long-term interest. Thus, while there are elements that could attract completionists and those seeking a challenge, the game's limitations seem to overshadow its potential for replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding SCHiM is a blend of appreciation for its artistic merits and criticism of its gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and TheSixthAxis, highlight the game’s stunning visuals and charming art style, which create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Critics like Nintendo Life and Generación Xbox commend its unique concept, describing it as a relaxing and introspective experience that appeals to casual gamers. The game’s imaginative approach and engaging puzzles are also noted, with reviewers like GameGrin and TheXboxHub praising its creativity and the emotional depth it attempts to convey. This combination of appealing aesthetics and a whimsical vibe seems to resonate well with a segment of the gaming community. However, the critiques of SCHiM often center around its gameplay and narrative shortcomings. Many reviewers, including CD-Action and GAMINGbible, express disappointment in the monotonous gameplay and lack of emotional depth, suggesting that the game fails to deliver on its potential. Critics like Power Unlimited and PC Gamer point out that the game lacks challenge and depth, resulting in a repetitive experience that can feel tedious rather than fulfilling. Furthermore, the simplistic mechanics and minimal storytelling are recurring themes in the reviews, with critics such as Siliconera and GameSpew noting that these elements detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. In summary, the consensus among critics is that while SCHiM boasts beautiful visuals and a unique concept, it ultimately falls short in terms of engaging gameplay and emotional resonance. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and TrueGaming acknowledge the charm and relaxation it offers, but many others emphasize the missed opportunities for deeper gameplay and narrative engagement. Overall, SCHiM appears to be a game that may appeal to those looking for a light, artistic experience, but it may not satisfy players seeking a more robust and challenging adventure.

TL;DR

SCHiM dazzles with stunning visuals and a charming art style, winning praise for its cozy atmosphere and unique concept; however, it falls flat with monotonous gameplay and shallow narrative, leaving many players craving depth and challenge. Ideal for casual gamers seeking a light experience, but a letdown for those wanting a more engaging adventure.

MONSTER

Reviews

85 reviews found

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jul 15, 2024