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MONSTER

SEASON: A letter to the future

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of SEASON: A letter to the future
Item: SEASON: A letter to the future
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Point & Click, Casual, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableJan 31, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

DeveloperScavengers Studio

Overview

Close your eyes, take a deep breath and let yourself be carried away by the great journey of Season, a third-person atmospheric adventure bicycle road trip game. Explore the world through the eyes of a young woman. Collect artifacts and memories before a mysterious cataclysm washes everything away.

Elsewhere

7.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

66%

Mixed (50-79)

34%

Negative (0-49)

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

Overall, the critics' opinions regarding the Story of SEASON: A letter to the future are generally positive. Many critics appreciate the game's exploration of profound themes such as memory, choice, consequence, loss, and community. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming, Gaming Nexus, and Press Start Australia highlight the captivating and unique narrative that revolves around capturing memories before an inevitable end. They praise the game's ability to provoke emotions and thoughts, as well as its carefully crafted script. The game's melancholic tone, wondrous exploration, and the protagonist's journey of discovery are also commended by critics like KeenGamer and RPG Fan. However, there are some negative aspects that critics point out. Some critics, such as COGconnected and Guardian, feel that the overarching plot lacks focus and depth. They find the story to be lacking impact and the protagonist's agency to be lacking. Gaming Age criticizes the shallow and pseudo-deep dialogue, while PC Gamer mentions the constant interruptions and lack of personal exploration that hinder the storytelling. Slant Magazine also mentions a sense of uncertainty and lack of confirmation in uncovering little stories and mysteries. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A letter to the future offers a captivating and reflective narrative adventure. The game's exploration of themes, such as memory, culture, spirituality, and the fragility of both the mental and physical world, is praised. The unique concept of a changing season wiping memories and the focus on capturing and preserving memories before an impending cataclysm are seen as compelling elements. While there are some criticisms regarding the depth of the story, dialogue, and personal exploration, the overall sentiment is positive, with critics appreciating the game's melancholic tone, thought-provoking narrative, and the sense of wonder and discovery it evokes.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics generally praise SEASON: A letter to the future for its profound themes, emotional storytelling, and captivating narrative centered on memory. Positive reviews highlight the game's ability to provoke thoughts and emotions, its melancholic tone, and the protagonist's journey of discovery. However, some critics criticize the lack of depth in the plot and dialogue, as well as interruptions in storytelling. Despite these criticisms, the consensus is that the game offers a reflective and engaging narrative adventure exploring themes of memory, culture, and fragility.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of SEASON: A Letter to the Future are varied, but there are some common positive aspects that stand out. Many critics praise the exploration aspect of the gameplay, whether it is on foot or by bicycle. They appreciate the freedom to explore the vast open-world at their own pace, with GameSpew mentioning various game modes and a rewind function that adds to the overall experience. The use of tools such as the camera and audio recorder is also highlighted as enjoyable and providing a sense of freedom to capture and document the player's surroundings. Critics like Press Start Australia and TheSixthAxis specifically mention the ability to add personal touches to the journal, such as sketches and photographs, which adds depth to the gameplay experience. The scrapbooking mechanic is also mentioned positively by Gaming Age and Shacknews, as it allows players to create their own unique memories. However, there are some negative aspects of the gameplay that critics point out. COGconnected and Gaming Age mention frustrations with the cycling mechanics, with the latter also mentioning frustrations with the controls. Metro GameCentral notes that the gameplay is on rails with limited exploration, which may be a drawback for players seeking more freedom. Some critics, such as TheGamer and PC Invasion, find the movement and bike controls to be clunky and awkward. The lack of markers and objectives is also mentioned by GamingTrend as potentially frustrating for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A Letter to the Future offers a unique and refreshing gameplay experience. The exploration aspect, freedom to document and capture memories, and the personalization of the journal are all highlighted as positive aspects. The game's ability to create a cozy and immersive atmosphere is also appreciated by critics like KeenGamer and Screen Rant. However, there are some criticisms regarding the cycling mechanics, controls, and limited exploration. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with critics praising the game's ability to provide a relaxing and personal adventure in a beautifully designed world.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on SEASON: A Letter to the Future's gameplay. Positives include praised exploration, tools like camera and audio recorder, personal touches to the journal, and unique scrapbooking mechanic. However, some point out frustrations with cycling mechanics, controls, limited exploration, and clunky movement. Overall, critics view the game as offering a unique and immersive experience with cozy atmosphere, despite some drawbacks.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

89%

Mixed (50-79)

11%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of SEASON: A Letter to the Future are overwhelmingly positive. The majority of the critics praised the game's visuals, describing them as beautiful, stunning, and visually appealing. COGconnected commends the game for its vivid color scheme and cell-shaded design, which adds personality to the world and creates a whimsical atmosphere. Checkpoint Gaming highlights the stunning environmental design, blending comic book and Ghibli-esque styles, with evocative use of color. GamesRadar++ and KeenGamer also emphasize the game's stylized and hand-drawn charm, making players want to capture everything they see. TheGamer mentions the cel-shaded pastels and striking landmarks, while Screen Rant praises the timeless quality of the cel-shaded style, which works well with the contemplative ambiance. Despite the overwhelmingly positive sentiment, there are a few minor criticisms mentioned by some critics. Gaming Nexus points out minor issues with camera angles and clipping glitches, which slightly detract from the overall experience. Video Chums notes occasional texture pop-ins, although they still find the graphics attractive overall. The Indie Informer mentions that the opening section plays out in confined, interior spaces, which may limit the visual impact initially. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A Letter to the Future has exceptional Graphics and Visual Design. The game's visuals are consistently praised for their beauty, artistry, and immersive qualities. Critics like GamingTrend, PC Gamer, and PC Invasion highlight the impeccable visuals, well-crafted character models, smooth animations, and picturesque art direction. The use of color, hand-drawn comic book style, and cel-shaded design are frequently mentioned as standout features that contribute to the visually stunning experience. The game's ability to create a captivating and immersive landscape, with sweeping vistas, abandoned valleys, and idiosyncratic settlements, is also highly regarded. The positive consensus among the critics indicates that SEASON: A Letter to the Future excels in its Graphics and Visual Design, making it a visually appealing and memorable adventure.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about SEASON: A Letter to the Future's stunning graphics and visual design, praising its beautiful artistry, vivid colors, and immersive world. Some minor critiques include camera angles and texture pop-ins, but overall, the game is celebrated for its impeccable visuals, hand-drawn style, and captivating landscapes. Critics agree that SEASON delivers a visually appealing and memorable adventure.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of SEASON: A letter to the future are generally positive. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack and its ability to enhance the emotional aspects of the narrative. COGconnected commends the subtle but poignant soundtrack, while KeenGamer highlights the beautiful compositions by Spencer Doran and the fluid transitions. NPR and Screen Rant also mention the game's beautiful scoring and sound design, which contribute to the contemplative atmosphere. The atmospheric soundtrack, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming, responds to the environment and enhances the magical elements of the game. The inclusion of music-playing flowers and audio-storing objects, as noted by Guardian, adds an interesting and immersive aspect to the sound design. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Gaming Nexus points out that the mouths of the characters do not move during dialogue, which can be distracting and take away from the overall immersion. PC Gamer mentions that the constant commentary from the narrator becomes overwhelming and hinders the overall experience. The voice acting, although generally praised, has some inconsistencies with lip-syncing and the main character not speaking during dialogue, as noted by GamingTrend. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A letter to the future has a strong and immersive sound design and music. The positive aspects mentioned by the reviewers, such as the beautiful scoring, atmospheric soundtrack, and the ability to capture and record sounds, outweigh the negative aspects. The soundtrack enhances the emotional aspects of the narrative, creating meaningful and emotional moments, as mentioned by Push Square. The sound design brings the world to life, with sounds of nature and music playing a prominent role in creating immersion, as stated by Shacknews. The overall sentiment is that the sound design and music of SEASON: A letter to the future contribute positively to the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics praise SEASON's sound design and music for enhancing the emotional narrative with beautiful scoring and atmospheric soundtrack. While some mention minor flaws like static character mouths and overwhelming narrator commentary, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, noting the immersive elements and magical atmosphere created by the music and sound design.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

58%

Mixed (50-79)

42%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the voice acting in SEASON: A letter to the future is largely positive, with multiple critics praising the performances of the voice actors. Critics such as Gaming Age, Gaming Nexus, and Softpedia commend the strong and impressive vocal performances from each character, highlighting the ability of the voice actors to bring the characters to life. RPG Fan specifically mentions Maureen Adelson's standout performance as the protagonist, with quiet-yet-powerful emotions evident in every line of dialogue. The quality voice acting is also credited with grounding the moments spent in other people's company, creating empathy for each character, as noted by TheSixthAxis. However, there are some critics who have reservations about the voice acting in SEASON. Push Square expresses disappointment, describing the voice acting as below par. Screen Rant mentions that the voicework can feel stilted at times, which breaks the graceful quality of the conversations. PC Gamer points out that while the voice performance of the narrator's mother is infused with warmth and encouragement, the constant interruptions and lack of variety in dialogue make the overall voice acting less impactful. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, the overall consensus on the voice acting in SEASON: A letter to the future leans towards the positive side. The majority of critics appreciate the strong performances and the ability of the voice actors to bring depth and authenticity to the characters. The serious tone of the writing and voice acting is seen as earnest, but there are moments of levity that provide a nice contrast, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming. While there are some criticisms regarding certain aspects of the voice acting, such as stilted moments and lack of variety, the positive feedback outweighs the negative. Overall, the voice acting in SEASON: A letter to the future is considered solid, impressive, and capable of evoking emotions and empathy in players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics praise the strong voice acting in SEASON, with standout performances bringing characters to life. Some critics have reservations, citing stilted moments and lack of variety. Overall, the majority appreciate the depth and authenticity the voice actors bring, though some find room for improvement. The voice acting is seen as solid, impressive, and emotionally evocative, with a mix of serious tones and moments of levity.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

100%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of technical performance on the PlayStation 5, there are some positive aspects mentioned by the critics. Gaming Nexus highlights the benefits of ultrafast load times and the tempest 3D audio feature in SEASON. Additionally, GamingTrend's review of the PC version also mentions good technical performance and stability overall. These positive aspects indicate that the game performs well in terms of loading times and audio immersion on both platforms. However, there are also negative aspects mentioned by the critics regarding the technical performance on the PlayStation 5. GamesRadar++ reports experiencing map loading problems and image display glitches, while Gaming Nexus mentions semi-frequent frame drops, stutters, and camera angle issues in tight corners. Metro GameCentral also notes occasional issues with getting stuck on scenery. Press Start Australia further adds that there are noticeable bugs, performance hitches, and glaring typos in the game. These technical issues suggest that the PlayStation 5 version of SEASON has some room for improvement in terms of stability and bug fixes. On the PC platform, there are mixed opinions regarding the technical performance of SEASON. PC Gamer's review mentions a bug that wiped all save data, which has since been resolved. However, no other technical performance or stability issues are mentioned. On the other hand, PC Invasion reports inconsistent performance with variable framerates and significant drops, even on high-end hardware. The Indie Informer also mentions spotty technical elements but still finds the overall experience memorable. These varying opinions indicate that the PC version of SEASON has had some technical issues, but the extent of these issues may vary depending on the hardware and individual experiences. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A letter to the future has some technical issues across both gaming platforms. While there are positive aspects such as fast load times and immersive audio on the PlayStation 5, there are also negative aspects like frame drops, stutters, and bugs. Similarly, the PC version has had its share of technical issues, including inconsistent performance and occasional bugs. Despite these technical shortcomings, some critics still find the overall experience of SEASON memorable, suggesting that the game's other elements may compensate for its technical flaws.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praise PlayStation 5's SEASON for fast load times and immersive audio, but note technical issues like frame drops and glitches. PC version faces mixed reviews, with reports of save data bug and inconsistent performance. Despite technical flaws, critics find SEASON's overall experience memorable.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

92%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of SEASON: A letter to the future are quite varied. Some critics, such as Gaming Nexus and RPG Fan, highlight the multiple story paths and endings based on player choices, indicating a positive aspect of the game's replay value. The reviewer from The Indie Informer also mentions being tempted to run through the world again to see different outcomes, suggesting that there is some replay value present. Additionally, PC Gamer mentions the satisfaction of curating a journal with choices, which could potentially encourage players to revisit the game and make different decisions. On the other hand, several critics express concerns about the lack of replay value in SEASON. Softpedia straightforwardly states that the game has no replay value, while NPR mentions that the short run time and memorable experiences may not be enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. New Game Network's reviewer states that they wouldn't return for a second playthrough as they feel they've seen everything the game has to offer. Slant Magazine also points out that the focus on uncovering little stories and mysteries, without confirmation or certainty, may limit the replay value for some players. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a lack of significant replay value in SEASON: A letter to the future. While there are positive aspects mentioned, such as the multiple story paths and the temptation to see different outcomes, the concerns raised by critics regarding the limited content, lack of variety in tone, and short run time suggest that the game may not offer substantial replayability. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and NPR highlight the need for more content or breaks in the game, indicating that additional elements could enhance the replay value. Ultimately, players who enjoy exploring different narrative paths and making choices may find some replay value in SEASON, but for those seeking a more varied and extensive experience, the game may not offer enough incentive for multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Opinions on SEASON's replay value vary among critics. Some praise the multiple story paths and endings, while others criticize the lack of replayability due to limited content and short run time. Overall, the consensus is that the game may not offer significant incentive for multiple playthroughs, with suggestions for additional content to enhance replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

65%

Mixed (50-79)

35%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of SEASON: A Letter to the Future, it is clear that there are several positive aspects highlighted by the critics. The game is praised for its beautiful visuals, captivating soundtrack, and unique narrative adventure experience. Critics such as KeenGamer and Gaming Nexus appreciate the melancholic tone and ethereal atmosphere of the game, while GameSpew and Softpedia commend the freedom given to the player and the ability to create a personal journal. The exploration aspect of the game is also highly regarded, with critics like Shacknews and GamingTrend emphasizing the peaceful and thought-provoking nature of the narrative. Additionally, the game's focus on preservation, emotions, and memories in a changing world is deemed engaging and thought-provoking by PC Games and GameByte. However, there are also some negative aspects mentioned by the critics. Some reviewers, such as Gaming Age and PC Gamer, criticize the game for lacking depth and replay value. The narrative and pacing issues are mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral, who find the story occasionally unclear or ambiguous. Technical issues and limited gameplay options are also raised as drawbacks by IGN Portugal and Video Chums. The overbearing narrator and lack of personal exploration hinder the immersive experience for PC Gamer, while NPR points out the lack of challenge and consequences in the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that SEASON: A Letter to the Future offers a unique and captivating experience with its beautiful visuals, captivating soundtrack, and exploration of themes such as preservation and emotions. The game's narrative adventure style and thought-provoking nature are appreciated by many reviewers, making it a recommended experience for fans of narrative-driven titles. However, there are some criticisms regarding the lack of depth, replay value, and occasional technical issues. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with critics like TheGamer and Push Square describing the game as fascinating, emotionally powerful, and leaving a lasting impression.

TL;DR

Critics praise SEASON: A Letter to the Future for its beautiful visuals, captivating soundtrack, and unique narrative adventure experience, with a focus on melancholic tone and exploration. However, some reviewers criticize its lack of depth, replay value, and technical issues. Overall, the game offers a captivating and thought-provoking experience, recommended for fans of narrative-driven titles, despite its shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

109 reviews found

RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Jan 31, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future is a beautiful and ethereal gaming experience that is genuinely moving and inspiring. Adventure game fans will want to experience it.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

The reviewer highly praises the game, describing it as a delicious, fascinating, and confusing world that is a joy to explore. The freedom given to the player and the ability to create a personal journal are highlighted as special aspects. The reviewer wishes for more content in the game.

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The Indie Informer

Jan 26, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future will likely be one of the reviewer's favorite games this year. Recommended for scrapbook fiends, fans of stunning scenery, and those who enjoy thoughtful reflection.

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TheSixthAxis

Jan 27, 2023

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

Sympathetic and thoughtful game that manages to achieve a balance between satisfaction, substance, and imperceptibility

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future is described as a solid and clever take on storytelling within the medium. Despite some technical issues, it is considered an unforgettable experience.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future is a beautiful work of art that captures powerful motifs of humanity and themes of preservation. It may not be for everyone, but if you approach it with the right expectations and mindset, you might be surprised by how much you enjoy it.

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IGN Portugal

PlayStation 5

Jan 27, 2023

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

The game is praised for its unique experience and beautiful world, but the gameplay options are limited.

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GameByte

Jan 26, 2023

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

Season is a compelling game that explores the importance of preserving knowledge and memories. It offers a unique apocalyptic setting and allows players to choose their own approach to recording history.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

A fascinating and emotionally powerful experience.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future is an emotional and well-written narrative adventure that offers a reflective meditation on liminality. It may occasionally stray into overly-earnest territory and has pacing issues, but it is a special and honest experience.

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