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MONSTER

Sea of Stars

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

2023

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

AvailableAug 29, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4

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

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TL;DR

Critics mostly loved Sea of Stars for its engaging story, charming characters, and unexpected twists, praising the blend of modern touches with nostalgic vibes. They enjoyed the vibrant supporting characters and emotional depth, though some criticized cliches and lack of character development. Overall, the consensus is positive, with many finding the narrative captivating and heartwarming, despite some flaws. The game excels in capturing classic JRPG storytelling with colorful characters and a compelling journey.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the story of Sea of Stars for its engaging narrative, charming characters, and unexpected twists. Critics like Tech-Gaming appreciated the incorporation of modern nuances alongside a warm sense of nostalgia, with rich vocabulary and light-hearted exploration. The Indie Informer and Cultured Vultures highlighted the vibrant supporting characters and emotional weight of playing the hero, creating a compelling and immersive storytelling experience. Additionally, critics such as Player 2 and DualShockers commended the heartwarming tale of friendship and bravery as young warriors embark on a quest to save the world from evil forces. On the other hand, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the story of Sea of Stars. GameMAG and GamingTrend criticized the cliched nature of the plot, lack of character development, and flat character arcs. Worth Playing and Digital Trends mentioned issues with the depth of villains and certain elements detracting from the overall plot. Metro GameCentral noted that while the characters were likable, they lacked depth, and the plot itself did not offer much in terms of complexity or depth. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive reception of the story in Sea of Stars. While there were criticisms regarding cliches, lack of depth in character development, and predictable elements, the majority of reviewers found the narrative to be engaging, heartwarming, and filled with unexpected twists. The game successfully captures the essence of classic JRPG storytelling, with colorful characters, emotional moments, and a compelling journey that resonated with many critics. Critics like Generación Xbox and Vgames appreciated the rich and immersive storytelling, while IGN Brasil and Siliconera praised the unique and innovative approach to building upon classic RPG adventures. In conclusion, despite some flaws, Sea of Stars managed to captivate the majority of critics with its well-crafted narrative and memorable characters, making it a noteworthy addition to the RPG genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sea of Stars' gameplay wows critics with engaging turn-based combat, unique blend of platformer action, and RPG elements. Praise for strategic depth with mechanics like the Lock system and combo attacks. Some critics mention concerns about potential repetitiveness and lack of challenge over time. Overall, critics find the gameplay highly enjoyable, innovative, and immersive, despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Sea of Stars received high praise from the majority of critics, with many highlighting its engaging turn-based combat system. Critics like RPG Fan and Press Start Australia appreciated the unique blend of platformer action and RPG elements, as well as the strategic depth offered by mechanics like the Lock system, timed hits, and interactive skills. The combat was described as satisfying and rewarding, with elements like combo attacks and active turn-based mechanics adding depth to the gameplay. The inclusion of mini-games like fishing and Wheels, as mentioned by Windows Central, also added variety to the overall experience. On the downside, some critics expressed concerns about the gameplay becoming repetitive or lacking depth as the game progressed. TheSixthAxis and Jeuxvideo.com noted that while the turn-based combat was initially satisfying, it could become lackluster and shallow over time due to limited variety in abilities and strategies. GamesRadar+ mentioned that certain aspects of the gameplay lacked depth and challenge, potentially leading to a mild experience for some players. Additionally, Worth Playing pointed out that while the combat system was fun, it could overstay its welcome due to the overpowering effects of certain abilities and the underplayed timed attack system. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Sea of Stars. The innovative combat mechanics, engaging exploration, and strategic depth of the turn-based battles were highlighted as major strengths of the game. Critics like Game Informer and Game Rant praised the dynamic and rewarding nature of the gameplay, emphasizing the well-designed encounters and the lack of grinding required. Despite some concerns about potential repetitiveness and lack of challenge in certain areas, the majority of critics found the gameplay experience in Sea of Stars to be highly enjoyable and commendable. The game successfully combines traditional RPG elements with modern mechanics, offering a compelling and immersive gameplay experience for players across different platforms.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sea of Stars wows critics with stunning pixel art, vibrant colors, and attention to detail, capturing the essence of classic RPGs with modern upgrades like real-time reflections. While some mention minor drawbacks like color mixing issues, the overwhelming consensus is overwhelmingly positive, praising its retro-flavored design and immersive visuals that set a high standard for the RPG genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics were highly impressed with the graphics and visual design of Sea of Stars, praising its stunning pixel art, vibrant colors, and attention to detail. Critics like Digital Trends and GameSpot highlighted the colorful and pixelated landscapes, lively animations, and gorgeous pixel art that captured the essence of classic RPGs while incorporating modern upgrades like real-time reflections. The game was commended for its retro-flavored visual design with minimal pixels for the protagonist, detailed assets, and varied environments ranging from forests to castles, as noted by GAMINGbible and TheGamer. Additionally, reviewers such as PCMag and Nintendo Life appreciated the nostalgic retro look that satisfied nostalgia-hungry gamers, while also incorporating modern touches to keep the visuals fresh and engaging. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics did mention a few drawbacks regarding the graphics and visual design of Sea of Stars. GameSkinny pointed out issues with certain colors mixing with flashing effects, which could potentially be a visual distraction for some players. However, this criticism was a minor concern compared to the overall praise for the game's aesthetics. It's worth noting that the negatives mentioned were relatively minor and did not significantly impact the overall consensus of the critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Sea of Stars. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising Sea of Stars for its visually stunning pixel art, vibrant environments, and dynamic lighting effects. Critics like Cultured Vultures and Siliconera highlighted the intricate details, vibrant colors, and exceptional character designs that brought the game world to life. The game was lauded for its ability to evoke nostalgia for classic RPGs while incorporating modern elements, as mentioned by Generación Xbox and IGN Brasil. The overall sentiment suggests that Sea of Stars successfully captures the retro aesthetic while offering a visually captivating and immersive experience that sets a high standard for visual design in the RPG genre, as emphasized by multiple critics such as DualShockers and GameGrin.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the Sound Design and Music of Sea of Stars, praising composer Yasunori Mitsuda's involvement and the retro RPG vibes. The electronic bop and percussive sounds enhance boss fights, while the music uplifts emotions and drives the story forward. Some critics note minor areas for improvement, like falling short of capturing the essence of Chrono Trigger and occasional chiptune repetition. Overall, the majority of critics laud the exceptional quality of the soundtrack, describing it as iconic and emotionally immersive, effectively elevating the game's nostalgic feel and immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

92%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the Sound Design and Music of Sea of Stars, with many highlighting the exceptional quality and immersive experience it provided. Renowned composer Yasunori Mitsuda's involvement in the soundtrack was a common point of praise, with critics like Cultured Vultures and GameSkinny appreciating the retro flair and nostalgic vibes reminiscent of classic RPGs like Chrono Trigger. The electronic bop and percussive sounds, as mentioned by XboxEra, added depth to the overall experience, especially during boss fights. Additionally, the music's ability to uplift emotions and drive the story forward, as noted by Twinfinite, contributed to the game's immersive atmosphere. The catchy battle tunes and delightful chiptune soundtrack, as highlighted by Twinfinite and New Game Network, further enhanced the nostalgic feel and complemented the game's visuals perfectly. On the flip side, some critics expressed minor concerns or areas for improvement regarding the Sound Design and Music of Sea of Stars. For instance, GameMAG mentioned that the attempt to evoke the spirit of Chrono Trigger fell flat, indicating that while the soundtrack was impressive, it may not have fully captured the essence of the classic RPG. Additionally, New Game Network pointed out that the chiptune soundtrack occasionally fell into repetition, suggesting that while delightful, there may have been room for more variety in the music to prevent monotony. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive towards the Sound Design and Music of Sea of Stars. The standout quality of the soundtrack, composed by renowned artists like Yasunori Mitsuda and Eric W. Brown, received widespread acclaim for enhancing the overall atmosphere and gameplay experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and PlayStation Universe highlighted the exceptional nature of the music, describing it as iconic, of the highest quality, and exceptional, respectively. The ability of the music to infuse emotion, sentiment, and nostalgia into the gameplay experience, as mentioned by DualShockers and God is a Geek, further solidified its positive reception. In conclusion, the majority of critics found the Sound Design and Music of Sea of Stars to be a significant strength of the game, effectively capturing the essence of classic RPGs and elevating the overall immersive experience for players.

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 impresses with smooth gameplay and technical prowess across platforms, earning widespread acclaim from critics. While some encountered bugs on Xbox Series X and suggested improvements for Switch, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Critics laud its stable performance, detailed environments, and overall enjoyable experience. Despite minor hiccups, Sea of Stars delivers a commendable technical performance that enhances the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

70%

Mixed (50-79)

30%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of technical performance on different gaming platforms, Sea of Stars received positive feedback from the majority of critics. On the PS5, Guardian and MeuPlayStation both highlighted smooth gameplay experiences, with Guardian noting the smooth walking speed and seamless turn-based battles. PCMag also praised the game for running well on various platforms, including the PC and Steam Deck, without being demanding on PC specs. Press Start Australia commended the polished and technically sound presentation on PC, further reinforcing the overall positive sentiment towards the game's technical performance. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by a few critics regarding technical performance on specific platforms. ZTGD encountered bugs and glitches while playing on the Xbox Series X, including issues with movement mechanics and combat visuals. Despite these challenges, ZTGD acknowledged that the autosave system helped mitigate the impact of these technical issues. GameCritics on the Nintendo Switch suggested that while there were no explicit technical issues, some quality of life improvements could enhance the overall gaming experience. These criticisms indicate that while Sea of Stars generally performed well across platforms, there were isolated instances of technical shortcomings that impacted gameplay for some critics. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the technical performance of Sea of Stars. Hardcore Gamer, Game Rant, New Game Network, and Multiplayer.it all echoed sentiments of smooth gameplay experiences, stable performance, and attention to detail in the game's environments. The lack of technical complaints from Game Rant, Hardcore Gamer, New Game Network, and Press Start Australia further solidifies the notion that Sea of Stars delivers a technically proficient gaming experience across multiple platforms. Despite minor issues reported by a few critics on specific platforms, the overall sentiment suggests that the technical performance of Sea of Stars is commendable and contributes positively to the overall gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics praise Sea of Stars for its extensive replay value, with over 25 hours for the main story and engaging post-game content like puzzles and mini-games. Customization options through Relics offer diverse gameplay experiences. However, drawbacks include limited fast travel and character development depth, impacting replayability. Overall, the game's abundance of side content and customizable difficulty settings make it a compelling choice for multiple playthroughs, especially for completionists and fans of exploration and diverse endings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

47%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of several critics highlight the positive aspects of Sea of Stars that contribute to its replay value. Dexerto mentions the game offers over 25 hours for the main story with potential for dozens more depending on engagement with collectibles, side quests, and challenges. DualShockers and PlayStation Universe both praise the post-game content, brain-busting puzzles, and additional activities like fishing and mini-games that enhance replayability. RPGamer also notes the customization options through Relics that alter difficulty, providing players with different ways to enjoy the game without frustrations. On the other hand, some critics point out potential drawbacks that may impact the game's replay value. GameCrate mentions limited fast travel and an aggravating lock system that can make backtracking a tedious chore, potentially affecting the desire to replay the game. LevelUp criticizes the lack of depth in character development, combat system, and RPG elements, which they believe may limit the replay value of Sea of Stars. Jeuxvideo.com on both PC and Xbox Series X platforms highlights limited character progression and lengthy battles as factors that could impact the game's replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards Sea of Stars offering a decent amount of replay value due to its engaging side content, customization options, and additional activities like mini-games and exploration. Critics like Press Start Australia and RPG Fan appreciate the abundance of side content, including NPCs quests, fishing, puzzles, and mini-games, which adds to the game's replayability. While some critics point out limitations in character progression and combat depth, the majority of reviewers acknowledge the game's potential for multiple playthroughs, especially for completionists and players interested in exploring different paths and endings. The variety of activities, engaging narrative, and customizable difficulty settings contribute to making Sea of Stars a title worth revisiting for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers on the videogame Sea of Stars, it is evident that the game received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. The game was praised for its engaging gameplay, captivating visuals, delightful music, and nostalgic charm, making it a standout title in the RPG genre. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com, PCMag, and NintendoWorldReport highlighted the enchanting visuals, engaging gameplay, and captivating storytelling as major strengths of the game. TheGamer also commended the game for offering an enjoyable and entertaining experience reminiscent of classic RPGs like Chrono Trigger, further solidifying its appeal to fans of the genre. Despite the overwhelmingly positive sentiment towards Sea of Stars, some critics did mention certain drawbacks. Issues with character development, gameplay depth, and occasional technical flaws were noted by reviewers like LevelUp and ZTGD. These shortcomings, while present, did not seem to detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the game for most critics. PC Gamer acknowledged that while Sea of Stars may not reach the highest heights of the games it draws inspiration from, its sincerity and unique approach were still appreciated by many. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sea of Stars is a remarkable indie RPG that successfully pays homage to classic 90s JRPGs while offering a fresh take on the genre with innovative gameplay mechanics and captivating storytelling. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and But Why Tho? went as far as to describe the game as a near flawless take on the turn-based RPG genre, highly recommending it to players. The game's ability to blend nostalgia with modern design elements, its engaging combat system, beautiful pixel art design, and captivating music were widely praised, positioning Sea of Stars as a must-play for fans of retro-inspired RPGs and a strong contender for Game of the Year. Overall, the sentiment towards Sea of Stars is overwhelmingly positive, with critics lauding it as a standout title that sets new standards in visual and audio design within the RPG genre.

TL;DR

Sea of Stars has received rave reviews from critics for its engaging gameplay, captivating visuals, and nostalgic charm, making it a standout RPG title. While some critics noted drawbacks like character development issues and technical flaws, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Critics praise the game for blending nostalgia with modern design elements, offering innovative gameplay mechanics, and captivating storytelling. Sea of Stars is highly recommended for fans of retro-inspired RPGs and is considered a strong contender for Game of the Year.

MONSTER

Reviews

179 reviews found

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

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

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Aug 28, 2023

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

The game draws upon the strengths of classic JRPGs and mixes them in meaningful ways. It is highly enjoyable and constantly keeps the player enthralled.

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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

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

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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100

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Aug 28, 2023

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

Sea of Stars is described as a near flawless take on the turn-based RPG. Every aspect of the game is praised as fun, emotional, and brain-teasing. The reviewer highly recommends the game.

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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

Guardian

PlayStation 5

Aug 31, 2023