68
MONSTER
Slave Zero X is a stylish 2.5D character action game set in the biopunk world of Slave Zero (1999). Run & Slash your way through a dystopian future in this character action game which will resonate with fans of Devil May Cry, Strider, and Guilty Gear.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
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75
Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Slave Zero X, with some praising its dark, gritty setting, well-written dialogues, and immersive world-building, while others criticize its lack of depth in character development and recycled plot elements. Overall, the game is commended for its engaging narrative that explores themes of rebellion and vengeance in a dystopian world, making it a compelling experience for fans of the genre and the original game.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
75
Positive (80-100)
47%
Mixed (50-79)
53%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Slave Zero X, with some praising its dark, gritty setting, well-written dialogues, and immersive world-building, while others criticize its lack of depth in character development and recycled plot elements. Overall, the game is commended for its engaging narrative that explores themes of rebellion and vengeance in a dystopian world, making it a compelling experience for fans of the genre and the original game.
Gameplay Mechanics
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70
Slave Zero X's gameplay impresses with its diverse combat moves and abilities, lauded for offering a range of offensive tactics. Critics praise its satisfying combat system featuring strategic mechanics like burst systems and combo attacks. However, criticisms include lack of enemy variety, a steep learning curve, and frustrating parry system. While some find the game rewarding for mastering combat intricacies, others feel it lacks engaging difficulty scaling and freshness. In essence, Slave Zero X appeals to players seeking a challenging hack-and-slash experience with scope for skill development.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
70
Positive (80-100)
21%
Mixed (50-79)
79%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
Slave Zero X's gameplay impresses with its diverse combat moves and abilities, lauded for offering a range of offensive tactics. Critics praise its satisfying combat system featuring strategic mechanics like burst systems and combo attacks. However, criticisms include lack of enemy variety, a steep learning curve, and frustrating parry system. While some find the game rewarding for mastering combat intricacies, others feel it lacks engaging difficulty scaling and freshness. In essence, Slave Zero X appeals to players seeking a challenging hack-and-slash experience with scope for skill development.
Graphics and Visual Design
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80
Critics praise Slave Zero X for its retro-style visuals, unique blend of 2D and 3D, and immersive atmosphere. Positive feedback on character designs, level design, and presentation running in crisp 4K at 60fps. Some critics noted issues with platforming and visibility hindrances. Overall, the game offers a visually appealing experience with a cool cyberpunk atmosphere, despite minor drawbacks.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
80
Positive (80-100)
67%
Mixed (50-79)
33%
Negative (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
Critics praise Slave Zero X for its retro-style visuals, unique blend of 2D and 3D, and immersive atmosphere. Positive feedback on character designs, level design, and presentation running in crisp 4K at 60fps. Some critics noted issues with platforming and visibility hindrances. Overall, the game offers a visually appealing experience with a cool cyberpunk atmosphere, despite minor drawbacks.
Music and Sound Design
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74
Slave Zero X's sound design and music receive a mix of praise and criticism from critics. Positive feedback highlights the exciting soundtrack and immersive sound effects enhancing the gameplay experience, while some suggest areas for improvement such as more intense boss fight music and varied dialogue. Overall, reviewers find the diverse music genres and styles contribute to a satisfying audio experience, with most appreciating the game's immersive atmosphere and fitting vibes. Despite some flaws in voice acting and repetition, the majority agree that the sound design and music of Slave Zero X add value to the gameplay.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
74
Positive (80-100)
38%
Mixed (50-79)
56%
Negative (0-49)
6%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
Slave Zero X's sound design and music receive a mix of praise and criticism from critics. Positive feedback highlights the exciting soundtrack and immersive sound effects enhancing the gameplay experience, while some suggest areas for improvement such as more intense boss fight music and varied dialogue. Overall, reviewers find the diverse music genres and styles contribute to a satisfying audio experience, with most appreciating the game's immersive atmosphere and fitting vibes. Despite some flaws in voice acting and repetition, the majority agree that the sound design and music of Slave Zero X add value to the gameplay.
Voice Acting
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65
Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Slave Zero X. Some praise the well-written and immersive character interactions, while others criticize the poor quality and lack of emotional depth. The availability of English and Japanese voice acting influences opinions, with some finding the Japanese voices more engaging. Overall, the over-the-top nature of the voice work adds to the game's narrative but may not be everyone's cup of tea.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING
Acting Score
65
Positive (80-100)
20%
Mixed (50-79)
60%
Negative (0-49)
20%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.
TL;DR
voice acting
Critics have mixed opinions on the voice acting in Slave Zero X. Some praise the well-written and immersive character interactions, while others criticize the poor quality and lack of emotional depth. The availability of English and Japanese voice acting influences opinions, with some finding the Japanese voices more engaging. Overall, the over-the-top nature of the voice work adds to the game's narrative but may not be everyone's cup of tea.
Technical Performance
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54
Mixed reviews for Slave Zero X technical performance on gaming platforms: PS5 and Xbox Series X praised for flawless gameplay, while Switch and PC criticized for inconsistent frame rates and technical issues. PS5 and Xbox provide immersive experiences, while Switch and PC encounter challenges affecting gameplay enjoyment. Critics differ on platform strengths and weaknesses, impacting overall reception of the game.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
54
Positive (80-100)
13%
Mixed (50-79)
63%
Negative (0-49)
25%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
Mixed reviews for Slave Zero X technical performance on gaming platforms: PS5 and Xbox Series X praised for flawless gameplay, while Switch and PC criticized for inconsistent frame rates and technical issues. PS5 and Xbox provide immersive experiences, while Switch and PC encounter challenges affecting gameplay enjoyment. Critics differ on platform strengths and weaknesses, impacting overall reception of the game.
Replay Value
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58
Slave Zero X offers challenging gameplay and intense combat encounters that provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation for players seeking a tough challenge. However, the lack of balance, variety in gameplay, and limited depth in content may hinder its replay value for a wider audience looking for customization options and smoother learning curves.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
58
Positive (80-100)
0%
Mixed (50-79)
93%
Negative (0-49)
7%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
Slave Zero X offers challenging gameplay and intense combat encounters that provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation for players seeking a tough challenge. However, the lack of balance, variety in gameplay, and limited depth in content may hinder its replay value for a wider audience looking for customization options and smoother learning curves.
Overall Verdict
68
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
68
Positive (80-100)
28%
Mixed (50-79)
67%
Negative (0-49)
5%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
Critics are divided on Slave Zero X. Praise for its visuals, combat, and gameplay, but criticized for repetitive gameplay, technical issues, and lack of depth. Mixed opinions on difficulty spikes and learning curve. Appeals to genre fans willing to overlook flaws for immersive action.
68
MONSTER
Reviews
43 reviews found85
Softpedia
Mar 27, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X offers a complex combat system, retro look and soundtrack, and an interesting universe, but is limited by its tutorial, boss difficulty spikes, and platforming elements. It may appeal more to long-term fans of the genre.
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84
Impulsegamer
Mar 1, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Terrific beat 'em-up game with fast-paced combat and engaging gameplay, could benefit from more platforming and better music
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75
PlayStation Universe
Mar 5, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X is a well-executed old-school game with intense visual design and challenging gameplay, but lacks interesting difficulty scaling and may wear down players with its repetitive and frustrating elements.
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70
Noisy Pixel
Feb 26, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X is a bold reimagining of a classic, offering a deep and demanding action experience with rich narrative and rewarding challenges. While not without flaws, it stands as a testament to video game reboots, resonating with action genre fans.
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70
Gamers Heroes
Feb 25, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X offers a gritty cyberpunk hack-and-slash experience with challenging boss battles and a unique aesthetic that pays homage to classic 2.5D titles. The gameplay is engaging, but the repetitive nature of fighting endless hordes may deter some players.
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70
TheXboxHub
Apr 23, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X appeals to fans of the original with its biopunk style and satisfying combat, but falls short in depth and replay value, making it not a must-play despite the enjoyable hacking and slashing gameplay
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70
Push Square
Mar 21, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X offers a tough and challenging hack and slash experience with impressive visuals and technical performance. While the combat may be discouragingly unforgiving for some, it has depth for dedicated players.
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70
KeenGamer
Feb 26, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X provides a challenging hack-and-slash experience with a focus on mastering combat through long combos. The game's story lacks depth and exposition, while the gameplay offers a rewarding but difficult learning curve. The graphics depict a fitting dystopian setting, but navigation can be challenging. Sound design, particularly English voice acting, could be improved for better immersion.
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70
Worth Playing
Feb 19, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X offers a mix of good and rough elements, making it challenging to recommend easily. It can be satisfying for players seeking a bloody, execution-intensive beat-'em-up experience, but may feel like too much effort for others, especially those accustomed to modern beat-'em-ups.
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70
Tech-Gaming
Feb 27, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
Slave Zero X offers enjoyment in mowing down mechanized adversaries with flashy combos and precise timing, but is tarnished by inconveniences like vexing boss battles and checkpointing issues
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