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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: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

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

AvailableJan 31, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5

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

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future impresses with its deep themes of time and memory, garnering praise for its atmosphere and character development. However, critics point to a disjointed narrative, shallow dialogue, and a lack of emotional depth that undermine its potential. While the game invites reflection, its execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a thought-provoking yet flawed experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of SEASON: A Letter to the Future reflects a blend of appreciation for its thematic depth and engagement with memory and change. Critics like PC Games and GameSpot highlight the game's exploration of profound themes such as time, memory, and the emotional weight of documenting experiences before a significant transition. Gameblog.fr praises the atmospheric and poetic nature of the narrative, inviting players to reflect on the passage of time. Additionally, KeenGamer mentions that the script is carefully crafted, provoking thought and emotion, while Shacknews emphasizes the game's strong character development and unique motivations. This positive reception underscores the game's ability to create a contemplative atmosphere that resonates with players. However, many critics express concerns regarding the execution of the story, noting that it often feels disjointed or lacks depth. GameMAG points out that the narrative fails to develop adequately, leading to a disjointed experience, while TheGamer mentions an abrupt ending that leaves the story feeling incomplete. Guardian and Gaming Age criticize the protagonist's lack of agency and the shallow dialogue, which detracts from the emotional weight of the narrative. Critics like PC Gamer and Cognizant also highlight that the narrator's constant interruptions hinder personal exploration, making the storytelling feel less impactful. This sentiment is echoed by Digital Trends, who notes that while the themes are compelling, the writing can sometimes feel meandering. The overall consensus among critics is that while SEASON: A Letter to the Future presents an intriguing premise with rich thematic material, its narrative execution leaves much to be desired. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Gaming Nexus recognize the game's potential to explore memory and change, but many agree that the story's structure and character development could benefit from greater focus and coherence. The balance between engaging storytelling and the freedom of exploration seems to be a point of contention, with some critics appreciating the open-ended nature while others find it lacking in clarity and impact. Ultimately, SEASON is seen as a thought-provoking experience that invites reflection, but it struggles to fully realize its narrative ambitions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future captivates with its serene exploration and creative documentation tools, earning praise for its cozy atmosphere and immersive DualSense gameplay. However, critics slam its cumbersome controls, repetitive mechanics, and linear narrative, leading to a mixed reception. While the game resonates with those seeking a reflective experience, its technical flaws and lack of variety may leave more action-oriented players disappointed. Overall, it shines in atmosphere but stumbles in execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of SEASON: A Letter to the Future has received some praise for its unique approach to exploration and documentation. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Press Start Australia highlight the game's cozy atmosphere and the freedom it offers players to explore the Tieng Valley at their own pace. The integration of tools such as a camera, audio recorder, and journal allows for personal expression and creativity, as noted by GameSpew and The Indie Informer. The use of the DualSense controller has also been recognized for enhancing the immersive experience, with some reviewers appreciating the tactile feedback during exploration (New Game Network). Moreover, the game encourages players to take their time and soak in the environment, which can lead to a more reflective and meaningful experience, as mentioned by Screen Rant and Dexerto. However, the gameplay has faced significant criticism regarding its execution and depth. Many reviewers, including Meristation and COGconnected, have described the controls as cumbersome and frustrating, particularly when navigating the bike. The repetitive nature of the gameplay has also been a common concern, with critics like IGN Italia and GamePro Germany pointing out that the mechanics do not evolve throughout the game, leading to a sense of monotony. Furthermore, the linearity of the narrative and the lack of varied gameplay elements have been highlighted by critics such as Gamer.nl and Vandal, which detracts from the overall engagement and personal investment in the story. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the game's tranquil and exploratory nature and those who find its limitations frustrating. While some, like LevelUp and Gaming Age, emphasize the emotional connection and narrative integration of the gameplay, others, such as Shacknews and Adventure Game Hotspot, point out the clunky controls and lack of depth. The game seems to resonate well with players looking for a reflective experience, but it may not satisfy those seeking more dynamic and engaging gameplay mechanics. The overall sentiment suggests that while SEASON: A Letter to the Future has its strengths in atmosphere and personal storytelling, it is hampered by technical issues and a lack of variety that may alienate a broader audience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future impresses with its vibrant cel-shaded visuals, drawing comparisons to Studio Ghibli and Wind Waker. Critics praise its enchanting environments and artistic direction, enhancing the storytelling. However, some point out flaws like lifeless character designs and performance issues that hinder immersion. Overall, while it has technical shortcomings, the game's stunning aesthetics create a captivating experience, making it a must-play for fans of artistic exploration.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of SEASON: A Letter to the Future have garnered considerable praise from critics, who highlight the game's unique artistic direction and vibrant color palette. Many reviewers, such as COGconnected and Shacknews, commend the cel-shaded art style, which evokes a whimsical and painterly atmosphere reminiscent of Studio Ghibli and classic titles like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker. Critics like Dexerto and Screen Rant emphasize the stunning visuals, noting how the game creates enchanting environments that enhance the storytelling experience. The use of color and design elements, as pointed out by Checkpoint Gaming and PlayStation Universe, contributes to a captivating world that feels alive and inviting, encouraging players to explore and document their journey. However, not all feedback is positive, as several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the visual execution. GameMAG and Guardian express concerns over the minimalist approach, describing the character designs as lifeless and lacking necessary animations, which detracts from the overall immersion. Issues such as texture pop-ins and performance problems, mentioned by Gameblog.fr and Video Chums, can disrupt the visual experience, while some critics, like PSX Brasil and Adventure Gamers, note that certain character designs and animations lack variety and depth. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, it also suffers from technical limitations that prevent it from fully realizing its artistic potential. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards a positive reception of the graphics and visual design in SEASON: A Letter to the Future. While some reviewers highlight specific flaws, the majority recognize the game's striking aesthetics and evocative environments as its standout features. Critics such as IGN Portugal and Gaming Age encapsulate this sentiment by describing the visuals as breathtaking and nostalgic, contributing significantly to the game's emotional impact. Despite the criticisms, the general agreement is that the visual design successfully creates a beautiful and immersive world, making the game a worthwhile experience for players who appreciate artistic exploration.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future impresses with its atmospheric sound design and music, praised for enhancing the game's immersive and emotional experience. Critics celebrate its evocative soundtrack and rich environmental sounds, though some note issues with quiet audio levels and inconsistent voice acting. Despite minor criticisms, the overall reception highlights the game's audio as a key element in creating a reflective and captivating atmosphere.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of SEASON: A Letter to the Future have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's atmospheric and immersive qualities. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and Shacknews praised the atmospheric soundtrack and sound mixing, respectively, noting how these elements enhance the game's magical and contemplative aspects. The subtle yet poignant soundtrack has been recognized for its ability to evoke emotions, as mentioned by COGconnected and Multiplayer.it, while the environmental sounds effectively create a rich soundscape that immerses players in the game's world, as noted by GamingBolt and Digital Trends. Additionally, the incorporation of unique sound recording features, which allow players to capture the game's audio, has been highlighted by critics like Gaming Nexus and The Indie Informer, further enhancing the overall experience. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the sound design and voice acting. Gameblog.fr pointed out that while the sound design is appreciated, it can be too quiet at times, suggesting that the overall audio experience could be improved. Other critics, such as Gamer.nl and Push Square, noted inconsistencies in voice acting quality, with some performances feeling amateurish or stilted. The lack of synchronization between character dialogue and lip movements, as mentioned by PSX Brasil and GamingTrend, detracted from the immersion for some players. Additionally, while many reviewers enjoyed the calming nature of the soundtrack, some found it minimalistic to the point of being overwhelming or lacking in variety, as indicated by critiques from KeenGamer and Game Rant. Overall, the consensus among critics is that SEASON: A Letter to the Future excels in creating a serene and immersive audio experience that complements the game's themes of reflection and discovery. The sound design and music are generally regarded as effective in enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative, as noted by IGN Italia and NPR. While there are valid concerns regarding voice acting quality and sound mixing levels, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's auditory elements, emphasizing their role in crafting a unique and contemplative atmosphere. Critics like Softpedia and Noisy Pixel encapsulated this sentiment, highlighting how the sound design contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment and immersion in the game's world.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in SEASON: A Letter to the Future has received praise for its emotional depth, especially from main characters Estelle and Maureen, enhancing the game's narrative. However, critics point out inconsistencies, awkward performances during emotional scenes, uneven side character delivery, and a lack of lip sync that detracts from immersion. While the core performances shine, broader execution issues leave a mixed impression among players and reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in SEASON: A Letter to the Future has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly highlighting the performances of the main character, Estelle, and the protagonist, Maureen Adelson. Critics from outlets like GameMAG and RPG Fan praised the voice acting as a standout feature, with RPG Fan noting the "incredible" emotional depth conveyed through the dialogue. Many reviewers, including those from Shacknews and Softpedia, emphasized the strong performances that add authenticity and life to the characters, contributing significantly to the game's narrative experience. Additionally, the warm and charming nature of the voice acting, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com, enhances the overall immersion and engagement with the story. However, the voice acting is not without its criticisms. Some reviewers pointed out inconsistencies in the protagonist's performance, with Dexerto noting awkwardness stemming from the character being silent during emotional cutscenes while speaking during gameplay. DualShockers and Gamer.nl echoed concerns about uneven performances among side characters, which can detract from the overall immersion. Critics like Wccftech described the voice acting as "stiff," which further detracts from character engagement. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned a lack of lip movement during dialogues, as highlighted by LevelUp, which creates a curious disconnect in the presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the voice acting in SEASON: A Letter to the Future has strong elements, particularly in the performances of the main characters, there are notable inconsistencies and issues that prevent it from being universally acclaimed. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Multiplayer.it acknowledged the effective moments and emotional depth in the voice acting, yet the mixed quality of side characters and some awkward delivery detracts from the experience. The game seems to shine in its core performances but struggles with broader consistency, leaving a varied impression among players and reviewers alike.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future has a mixed technical performance on PS5 and PC. PS5 reviews highlight smooth gameplay for some but are marred by frame rate drops and bugs. PC players also report stability issues, with significant stuttering affecting gameplay. While the game shows promise, its technical flaws hinder immersion and enjoyment across both platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

The technical performance of SEASON: A Letter to the Future has garnered a mixed reception across both the PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. On the PS5, several critics noted that the game generally runs smoothly, with some reviewers like The Games Machine and Vandal reporting no significant technical issues, suggesting a satisfactory experience overall. Additionally, Gaming Nexus highlighted the benefits of ultrafast load times and the Tempest 3D audio feature, enhancing the immersive qualities of the game. Critics such as GameSpot and SpazioGames also mentioned that while there were minor issues, they did not severely detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. However, the negatives are more pronounced on the PS5, with many reviewers pointing out a range of technical problems. GameMAG and Gameblog.fr specifically noted performance issues, including frame rate drops and bugs that can disrupt gameplay. Other critics, such as IGN Italia and Gamer.nl, echoed these sentiments, citing collision problems and glitches that hinder the experience. On the PC side, while some critics like Finger Guns and GamingTrend reported stable performance, others, such as Game Rant and PC Invasion, highlighted significant issues like random stuttering and inconsistent frame rates, particularly affecting the cycling mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while SEASON: A Letter to the Future offers a compelling experience, its technical performance is marred by various issues across both platforms. The PS5 version is particularly criticized for its frame rate instability and bugs, with multiple reviewers emphasizing how these problems can detract from immersion. On PC, while some players found the experience stable, others faced frustrating technical challenges that impacted gameplay. Critics agree that the game has potential, but the technical shortcomings need addressing to fully realize its promise.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are split on SEASON: A letter to the future's replay value. While some highlight the potential for exploration and personal documentation, many argue its short length, linear structure, and lack of challenges make it a one-off experience—akin to a movie—rather than something worth revisiting. Overall, the game’s limited mechanics and similar player experiences restrict its replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

In analyzing the replay value of SEASON: A letter to the future, several critics highlighted aspects that could encourage players to revisit the game. For instance, GameSpew noted that while the game can be completed in around eight hours, it offers opportunities to explore each area more thoroughly, allowing players to discover new details and create unique journal entries. Similarly, PlayStation Universe emphasized the personal documentation aspect, suggesting that players might find value in replaying the game to capture different experiences. Additionally, Multiplayer.it pointed out the unique memory recording mechanic that encourages players to experience different journeys, indicating that there are elements that lend themselves to replayability. However, a significant number of critics expressed concerns regarding the game's overall replay value. Dexerto stated that the game offers limited replay value due to the absence of challenges or collectibles beyond personal keepsakes, while GameMAG described the experience as tedious, suggesting that it lacks the engagement necessary for multiple playthroughs. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia and Inverse, echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the game’s short length and narrow focus on a singular story limit its appeal for replayability. Critics like Softpedia and LevelUp further emphasized that the game’s linearity and structured objectives result in a similar experience for all players, which diminishes the incentive to replay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while SEASON: A letter to the future has some elements that could encourage exploration and personal interpretation, the game is fundamentally limited in its replay value. Many reviewers, such as Gamer Escape and GGRecon, noted that the game feels more akin to a one-off experience, similar to watching a movie, rather than a game designed for multiple playthroughs. Despite some positive remarks about the unique experiences it offers, the prevailing opinion is that the game’s short duration, linear structure, and lack of significant variation in gameplay mechanics ultimately restrict its replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In reviewing SEASON: A Letter to the Future, several critics have highlighted its artistic qualities and emotional depth. The game is praised for its beautiful visuals and unique narrative approach, with many reviewers noting its ability to create a calming and reflective atmosphere. For instance, Gaming Nexus describes it as a "beautiful work of art" that captures powerful themes, while Shacknews emphasizes its "thought-provoking narrative and stunning art design." Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Trends appreciate the game's meditative experience, suggesting that it encourages players to slow down and engage with its world. The scrapbooking mechanic is also frequently mentioned as a charming aspect that adds a layer of personal engagement to the gameplay, as noted by PC Invasion and God is a Geek. However, despite these positives, a significant number of reviewers express disappointment regarding the game's execution. Critics like GameMAG and Gaming Age label the game as shallow, suggesting it tries to appear deeper than it is. Many reviewers, including IGN Italia and Vandal, point out technical issues and gameplay limitations that hinder the overall experience. The narrative is often described as ambiguous or unclear, leading to frustrations with pacing and engagement, as highlighted by Metro GameCentral and TheGamer. Additionally, the abrupt ending and lack of replay value are recurring criticisms, with reviewers like NPR and Softpedia noting that the game may leave players wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans towards a cautious appreciation of the game's artistic intentions. While many acknowledge the beauty and emotional resonance of SEASON, they also emphasize the shortcomings in gameplay and narrative structure. Critics such as Press Start Australia and Eurogamer Germany find value in the game's unique storytelling, despite its flaws, suggesting that it may resonate with players who appreciate slower, more contemplative experiences. Ultimately, SEASON: A Letter to the Future is described as a memorable journey that may not appeal to everyone, but for those who connect with its themes, it offers a special and honest experience.

TL;DR

SEASON: A Letter to the Future is visually stunning and emotionally rich, praised for its artistic qualities and meditative gameplay. Critics commend its unique narrative and scrapbooking mechanic but also point out execution flaws, including technical issues, shallow depth, and a confusing story. With a mixed reception that leans toward cautious appreciation, it’s a memorable experience for those who enjoy contemplative gameplay, though it may leave others wanting more.

MONSTER

Reviews

111 reviews found

The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Jan 26, 2023

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

Season is described as a phenomenal experience that is emotionally engaging and rich in storytelling, making it a must-play for sensitive players.

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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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Finger Guns

Feb 1, 2023

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

SEASON: A letter to the future is a beautifully crafted indie game that excels in storytelling, atmosphere, and emotional engagement, making it a strong recommendation for fans of exploration and narrative-driven experiences.

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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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God is a Geek

Jan 26, 2023

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

Overall, the game is an emotional adventure with relatable characters, gorgeous locations, and satisfying scrapbooking, despite some gameplay issues.

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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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