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MONSTER

Sea of Stars

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

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Anime and JRPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 29, 2023

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

DeveloperSabotage Studio

Overview

Sea of Stars is a turn-based RPG inspired by the classics. Promising the Sabotage touch in every system, Sea of Stars aims to modernize the classic RPG in terms of turn-based combat, storytelling, exploration and interactions with the environment, while still offering a hearty slice of nostalgia and good old, simple fun.

Elsewhere

8.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics praised Sea of Stars for its emotional depth, clever JRPG twists, and heartfelt storytelling, but some called the plot formulaic and characters underdeveloped—yet it remains a standout in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The majority of critics praised Sea of Stars for its engaging and emotionally resonant storytelling, highlighting its ability to blend classic JRPG tropes with fresh twists and heartfelt moments. Many reviewers celebrated the game’s narrative depth, noting its exploration of themes like friendship, responsibility, and moral ambiguity. For instance, Cultured Vultures highlighted the game’s self-referential humor and emotional weight, while RPG Site praised its subversion of expectations through a layered plot. Tech-Gaming lauded the balance between serious undertones—such as grief and obligation—and lightheartedness, calling the writing “superb” with “laugh-out-loud funny moments.” The game’s characters also drew acclaim, with COGconnected noting that players “hung on every word” and grew attached to the cast, while Games.cz praised well-developed dialogues and unexpected plot twists. Even critics who acknowledged formulaic elements, like Digital Trends, appreciated the narrative’s ability to evolve, blending humor with heavier themes to create a satisfying journey. However, several reviewers pointed out notable flaws in the story’s execution. GamingTrend criticized the “forgettable plot” and “flat characters,” while Starbit described the storyline as “generic” despite its engaging moments. Others, like LevelUp and GameMAG, noted a lack of depth in character development, with heroes feeling underwhelming and the narrative falling short of becoming “legendary.” But Why Tho? and Worth Playing highlighted issues with predictable tropes, outdated relationships, and an unsatisfying conclusion, while Gaming Age acknowledged strong writing but noted that villains lacked depth. Some critics, such as TRG, felt the game’s self-aware humor occasionally overshadowed its emotional core, and Vandal called the story “simple and predictable,” though still enjoyable. These critiques often centered on the game’s reliance on familiar JRPG structures and occasional underdeveloped elements. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that Sea of Stars delivers a compelling and memorable narrative. While some reviewers, like GamingTrend and Starbit, found the story formulaic or lacking in originality, many others celebrated its strengths. Cultured Vultures and IGN Brasil praised the game’s unique characters and emotional depth, while Guardian called the storytelling “outstanding” and TheXboxHub described it as “absolutely incredible.” Even critics who noted flaws, such as But Why Tho? and Worth Playing, acknowledged the story’s ability to engage players through its twists and character dynamics. The game’s blend of nostalgia, humor, and heartfelt moments resonated with many, making it a standout entry in the JRPG genre despite its occasional shortcomings.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sea of Stars shines with innovative turn-based combat featuring lock mechanics, timed actions, and dynamic exploration, blending JRPG charm with modern twists. However, repetitive battles, limited challenge, and accessibility trade-offs spark debate, though most praise its cohesive, enjoyable gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Sea of Stars is widely praised for its innovative turn-based combat mechanics and engaging exploration. Critics highlight the strategic depth of the battle system, which incorporates unique elements like the lock system (where players counter enemies’ attacks using a rock-paper-scissors dynamic), timed hits and blocks, and live mana to enhance combos and ultimates. Metro GameCentral and TheGamer commend the combat’s resemblance to Chrono Trigger, noting its smooth execution and tactical complexity, while RPG Fan and Cultured Vultures praise the blend of platformer action with JRPG elements. Exploration is equally lauded, with Metroidvania-style progression, hidden treasures, and diverse biomes offering a sense of discovery. The game’s accessibility is another strength, as noted by Tech-Gaming and COGconnected, who appreciate its balance between simplicity and nuance, allowing players to experiment with strategies and characters. Mini-games like farming (But Why Tho?) and puzzles further enrich the experience, creating a vibrant, interactive world. However, several critics point to recurring issues of repetition and limited challenge. Gfinity and TheSixthAxis argue that the combat, while initially satisfying, becomes shallow over time due to repetitive mechanics and a lack of substantial difficulty. Jeuxvideo.com and Vgames note that the limited variety in abilities and enemy tactics can lead to monotony, with some battles feeling like “battles of attrition.” Additionally, the game’s reliance on timed actions and lock systems, while praised by many, may frustrate players who prefer more traditional turn-based systems (CGMagazine). The balance between accessibility and depth is also questioned; while some appreciate the difficulty reduction for newcomers, others feel it undermines strategic engagement. Critics like GamesRadar+ and IGN Italia acknowledge that the combat’s “mild demands” and lack of deeper strategy could leave seasoned players wanting more complexity. Despite these critiques, the majority of critics agree that Sea of Stars delivers a strong, enjoyable gameplay experience. The game’s blend of classic JRPG elements with modern twists—such as the lock system, combo mechanics, and dynamic exploration—has resonated with reviewers like GameStar and Twinfinite, who describe it as “solid” and “innovative.” While some concerns about repetition and depth are valid, they are often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise cohesive and engaging package. The consensus leans heavily toward positivity, with many highlighting the game’s ability to balance accessibility with strategic depth, making it a standout entry in the turn-based RPG genre. As Metro GameCentral notes, while nothing is “revolutionary,” the combat system is “very solid” and “just the right level of complexity,” reflecting the broad acclaim it has received.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

A visual triumph blending retro pixel art with modern polish, Sea of Stars dazzles with vibrant aesthetics, dynamic lighting, and nostalgic charm, earning universal praise for its immersive 2D RPG design—though minor gameplay quirks and comparisons to classics like Chrono Trigger slightly dim its shine.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers praised Sea of Stars for its retro-inspired pixel art and modern visual enhancements, highlighting its ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary design. Critics consistently lauded the game’s vibrant color palettes, intricate environmental details, and dynamic lighting effects. For instance, GAMINGbible noted the “minimal pixels for the protagonist” alongside “detailed assets and decaying environments,” while TheGamer emphasized the “lush and varied environments” and “SNES RPG and 2D Zelda styles.” Many critics, including CGMagazine, Everyeye.it, and XboxEra, celebrated the game’s “stunning pixel art visuals” and “dynamic lighting,” with IGN Brasil calling it a “visually stunning experience” that evokes nostalgia for classic RPGs like Golden Sun and Chrono Trigger. The attention to detail in character animations, boss fights, and world design—such as the “meticulous detail” mentioned by Starbit and the “incredible endearment” of pixel art described by Cultured Vultures—further solidified its reputation as a visual standout. While the consensus was overwhelmingly positive, some critics pointed to minor flaws. GameSkinny noted issues with “certain colors mixing with flashing effects,” which could occasionally distract from the experience, and CGMagazine mentioned that “mechanics like hit detection and puzzle-solving can be lackluster,” though these critiques were more about gameplay than visuals. Additionally, GameMAG felt the game “falls short of evoking the spirit of Chrono Trigger,” a comparison that underscores the high bar set by classic titles. However, these criticisms were rare and often framed as minor drawbacks rather than significant flaws. The majority of reviewers, including The Indie Informer and RPG Fan, emphasized that the game’s visual design was “gorgeous” and “beautifully crafted,” with few detractors undermining its overall appeal. The overwhelming majority of critics agreed that Sea of Stars excels in graphics and visual design, with 90%+ of reviews highlighting its retro aesthetic, modern polish, and immersive world-building. The game’s ability to balance 16-bit charm with dynamic lighting, detailed environments, and expressive animations set a new standard for 2D RPGs. Nintendo Life praised it for “exceeding Square Enix’s HD-2D system,” while New Game Network called the environments “absolutely gorgeous” and TechRadar Gaming noted that the visuals “enhance the overall experience.” Even critics who acknowledged minor issues, like GameSkinny or CGMagazine, ultimately framed them as exceptions rather than deal-breakers. In essence, Sea of Stars is celebrated as a visual triumph, with its pixel art and environmental design earning universal acclaim for capturing the magic of classic RPGs while pushing creative boundaries.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sea of Stars' soundtrack is a nostalgic, dynamic triumph, blending 16-bit charm with Chrono Trigger-inspired flair via Mitsuda’s work. While some critics noted repetition or familiarity, the music’s emotional depth, uplifting battle themes, and variety universally elevated gameplay, cementing it as a standout, retro-fueled gem.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

91%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Sea of Stars received widespread acclaim, with critics highlighting its nostalgic charm, dynamic compositions, and strong ties to classic RPGs. Multiple reviewers praised the soundtrack’s retro aesthetic, particularly its 16-bit influences and homage to Chrono Trigger. Yasunori Mitsuda, known for his work on Chrono Trigger, was frequently cited as a key contributor, with Cultured Vultures noting his “SNES-flavored musical contributions” and Nintendo Life emphasizing how his style complements Eric Brown’s work. The music’s ability to evoke emotion and enhance gameplay was a recurring theme: Destructoid praised the “ambitious soundtrack that complements the gameplay experience,” while Digital Trends highlighted its “moving” quality during tense moments. Battle themes were especially lauded, with GameRant noting their “catchy” nature and Twinfinite calling them “uplifting.” The variety of tracks—ranging from playful puzzle music to epic battle scores—was seen as a strength, with RPG Site describing the sound design as “exquisite” and COGconnected celebrating its “heavy guitar vibes” and “banger” battle themes. While the majority of reviews were positive, some critics noted minor flaws. GameMAG criticized the soundtrack’s attempt to replicate Chrono Trigger’s spirit as “falling flat,” and New Game Network mentioned that the chiptune style occasionally “falls into repetition.” Impulsegamer observed that “some loops may repeat too quickly,” while IGN Italia noted that the music felt “sometimes familiar,” suggesting a lack of originality in certain areas. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com (once) remarked that the soundtrack was “captivating” but hinted at its reliance on nostalgic references. These critiques, however, were relatively isolated and did not detract from the overall enthusiasm for the score. The consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with nearly all agreeing that the sound design and music significantly enhance Sea of Stars’s charm and immersion. The collaboration between Mitsuda and Brown was seen as a standout element, blending retro aesthetics with modern sensibilities. Reviews from Destructoid, Cultured Vultures, and RPG Site emphasized how the soundtrack “complements the gameplay experience” and “captures the essence of classic RPGs,” while XboxEra and Gfinity highlighted its ability to elevate emotional moments. Even with minor criticisms about repetition or familiarity, the majority of reviewers—such as Digital Chumps, COGconnected, and Worth Playing—celebrated the soundtrack as “stunning,” “exceptional,” and “top-notch.” Ultimately, Sea of Stars’s music is viewed as a vital component of its success, perfectly encapsulating the game’s nostalgic yet fresh spirit.

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

Sea of Stars dazzles with near-flawless cross-platform performance, but Xbox's glitches and PS5's minor delays reveal isolated hiccups in an otherwise polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Sea of Stars received largely positive feedback across all platforms, with critics highlighting its stability and polish. On PS5, Guardian praised the smooth walking speed and seamless turn-based battles, while MeuPlayStation noted minor command delays but emphasized overall stability. For Xbox Series X, ZTGD acknowledged bugs like movement glitches and combat visual issues, though they credited the autosave system for mitigating disruptions. On PC, multiple reviewers—such as Game Rant, Hardcore Gamer, and PCMag—reported flawless performance, with PCMag specifically noting the game runs well on various hardware, including Steam Deck, and is not demanding on specs. The Nintendo Switch also fared well, with Multiplayer.it praising its stable performance and art direction, while GameCritics noted no technical issues despite suggesting quality-of-life improvements. However, some platform-specific concerns emerged. On Xbox Series X, ZTGD’s report of bugs and glitches in movement and combat visuals stood out as a notable downside, though they acknowledged the autosave system’s effectiveness. On PS5, MeuPlayStation mentioned minor delays in character commands, which could slightly disrupt the flow for some players. While these issues were not widespread, they highlighted potential areas for refinement. The Nintendo Switch faced no technical complaints, but GameCritics’ mention of quality-of-life improvements suggested that while performance was solid, certain gameplay mechanics could be optimized. Overall, the negatives were relatively minor and did not overshadow the game’s broader technical strengths. The overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Sea of Stars delivers a technically sound experience across all platforms. PC reviewers, including PCMag and TechRadar Gaming, emphasized its flawless performance on diverse hardware, while PS5 and Switch users reported stable gameplay with only minor hiccups. Even ZTGD’s criticisms for Xbox Series X were tempered by the game’s overall stability and autosave functionality. This collective praise underscores that Sea of Stars excels in technical execution, with only isolated issues detracting from an otherwise polished experience. The game’s ability to maintain smooth performance across platforms—despite varying hardware capabilities—further reinforces its technical excellence.

TL;DR

technical performance

Sea of Stars dazzles with near-flawless cross-platform performance, but Xbox's glitches and PS5's minor delays reveal isolated hiccups in an otherwise polished experience.

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sea of Stars dazzles with its vast exploration, post-game incentives, and inventive mini-games like Wheels, offering 25+ hours of replayable content. Yet repetitive combat, lackluster progression, and design flaws dampen long-term appeal, making it a polarizing choice for fans of depth versus those seeking seamless gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of reviewers highlight Sea of Stars as a game with strong replay value driven by its expansive side content, exploration opportunities, and post-game incentives. Critics like Dexerto emphasize the game’s 25+ hours for the main story, with potential for dozens more through collectibles, puzzles, and challenges. IGN Italia and TheXboxHub praise the New Game+ mode and alternate endings, which encourage players to revisit the world. Push Square and RPGamer note that optional content, such as side quests, puzzles, and the Wheels mini-game, rewards curiosity and exploration. Cultured Vultures and RPG Fan highlight the abundance of activities like fishing, town-building, and environmental puzzles, while Nintendo Life and Siliconera commend the Wheels tabletop game as a standout diversion. These elements collectively create a sense of discovery and variety that keeps players engaged beyond the main narrative. However, several critics point to limitations in replayability due to repetitive mechanics and design choices. GameCrate criticizes the limited fast travel system, which makes backtracking tedious, while Jeuxvideo.com and LevelUp note that lengthy battles and minimal character progression could deter repeated playthroughs. PCMag and TRG argue that the game lacks strong incentives for multiple runs, despite optional content like relics or achievements. DualShockers (on PC) and Jeuxvideo.com mention that some mini-games, such as Wheels, can feel unfair or unbalanced, while PC Gamer notes that the relic system doesn’t clearly enhance replayability. Additionally, GameMAG and GamesRadar+ suggest that repetitive combat and a lack of depth in RPG elements may reduce long-term appeal for some players. Overall, the consensus is that Sea of Stars offers a commendable level of replay value, particularly for fans of exploration and side content, but its effectiveness depends on individual preferences. While critics like Metro GameCentral (30+ hours played) and Nintendo WorldReport praise the game’s depth and post-game incentives, others such as PCMag and TRG feel it falls short of being a must-replay title. The game’s charm lies in its whimsical world-building and creative mini-games, but its replayability is somewhat tempered by repetitive combat and design flaws. Despite these drawbacks, the majority agree that the game provides enough engaging content to justify multiple playthroughs for completionists and casual players alike.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised Sea of Stars for its nostalgic homage to classic JRPGs, vibrant presentation, and engaging gameplay. Many highlighted its ability to blend retro charm with modern polish, calling it a "well-executed tribute to the golden age of RPGs" (Hardcore Gamer) and a "heartfelt homage to classic Japanese RPGs of the 90s" (Jeuxvideo.com). The game’s visuals, music, and storytelling were frequently lauded, with Multiplayer.it noting its "innovative gameplay mechanics and captivating visual and musical design," while GamesRadar+ described it as a "nostalgic yet warm experience" with "extraordinary sights and sounds." Critics like DualShockers and Vgames hailed it as a "masterfully made video game" and a "triumph that successfully blends nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics," emphasizing its appeal to both veteran fans and newcomers. The turn-based combat, while not groundbreaking, was praised for its "engaging" and "complex" nature (Press Start Australia), and the game’s whimsical soundtrack and pixel art design were consistently celebrated as standout features. Despite these accolades, several critics pointed out notable flaws. Some noted that the gameplay could become repetitive or lack depth, with GameMAG describing it as a transition from "a fun adventure to a monotonous experience," while LevelUp and TheGamer critiqued its "shortcomings in character development and gameplay depth." TheSixthAxis highlighted that "the combat becomes lacklustre" and "mini games can feel unfair," while PCMag acknowledged "shortcomings in story and character development." Additionally, a few reviewers felt the game struggled to match the legacy of its inspirations, with GameStar noting it was "a strong competitor to bigger titles" but not quite reaching their heights. While these criticisms were consistent across multiple outlets, they were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than deal-breakers, with many acknowledging that the game’s strengths outweighed its weaknesses. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with Sea of Stars being celebrated as a standout title in the JRPG genre. Most reviewers emphasized its ability to capture the "magic of classic JRPGs" (RPGamer) while offering fresh innovations, with publications like IGN Italia and Vgames calling it one of the best games of 2023. Even critics who pointed out flaws, such as PC Gamer and Tech-Gaming, acknowledged its sincerity and appeal to fans of retro-style RPGs. The game’s blend of nostalgia, engaging storytelling, and polished mechanics earned it high recommendations, with outlets like NintendoWorldReport praising it as a "near flawless take on the turn-based RPG" and TheXboxHub declaring it a "must-play for RPG fans." While not without its imperfections, Sea of Stars was widely regarded as a triumph that successfully modernizes classic JRPG elements, solidifying its place as a must-experience title for enthusiasts of the genre.

TL;DR

A nostalgic, visually stunning JRPG that masterfully blends retro charm with modern polish, earning universal acclaim for its engaging gameplay, whimsical soundtrack, and heartfelt storytelling—though some critics note minor flaws in repetition and depth, calling it a triumph that redefines classic JRPGs for new audiences.

MONSTER

Reviews

180 reviews found

100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2023

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

Masterfully made video game, cements itself atop the genre, must-play material, small but mighty dev team delivers exceptional quality

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100

GameGrin

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars is described as an outstanding and amazing-looking title that captures the essence of classic turn-based RPGs while improving upon them. The reviewer highly recommends the game as a must-play title and praises it as their game of the year.

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100

But Why Tho?

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars is praised as a unique and engaging game that stands out in the genre, deserving of recognition alongside top indie titles like Celeste and Hades. It is considered a Game of the Year contender.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jan 16, 2024

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

Sea of Stars is highly recommended for RPG fans, offering a modernized take on a classic formula with engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and a captivating story. While combat could be more diverse, the game sets a high standard for future 2D RPGs and provides a nostalgic experience for fans of the genre.

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100

God is a Geek

Aug 28, 2023

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

One of the best RPGs, engaging combat, delightful characters, and sensational audio

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100

IGN Brasil

Xbox Series X

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars shines as a brilliant and enchanting turn-based RPG that successfully blends familiar elements with its own charm and creativity, offering a refreshing and engaging RPG experience reminiscent of the classics of the 90s.

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100

Windows Central

Xbox Series X

Aug 28, 2023

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

Highly rewarding experience, must-play for JRPG enthusiasts, successfully combines classic gameplay with modern polish. Recommended as one of the best Xbox JRPGs and overall games of 2023.

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100

Guardian

PlayStation 5

Aug 31, 2023

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

Sea of Stars is a modern classic in its own right.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars delivers the total package for retro-infused RPGs and is recommended for players to check out.

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100

Hey Poor Player

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars is a standout retro-inspired JRPG that surpasses expectations, offering a joyful experience with minor flaws in the opening hours, highly recommended.

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