Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Steam

Epic

Twitch

MONSTER

Somerville

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

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player

AvailableNov 15, 2022

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

DeveloperJumpship

Overview

In the wake of catastrophe you must find the means to make your family whole again. Somerville is a Sci-Fi adventure grounded in the intimate repercussions of large scale conflict. Immerse yourself in a hand-crafted narrative experience set across a vivid rural landscape. Navigate your way through the perilous terrain ahead of you to unravel the mysteries of Earth's visitors.

Elsewhere

6.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville impresses with its unique, wordless storytelling and emotional depth, drawing comparisons to classic films. Critics rave about its immersive visuals and intimate family themes but slam the latter half for character disconnection, confusion, and an unsatisfying conclusion. While the narrative starts strong, it ultimately falters, leaving players feeling disengaged and underwhelmed. Overall, it's a mixed bag of ambition and execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions surrounding the story of Somerville reveal a range of positive sentiments, particularly regarding its unique approach to storytelling. Many critics praised the game for its emotional depth and the effective use of wordless narrative techniques. For instance, PlayStation Universe highlighted the impactful storytelling that evokes memories of classic films like War of the Worlds and Super 8, while Push Square commended the silent storytelling through beautiful environments and intimate family scenes. Critics such as GamingBolt and Game Informer noted the captivating nature of the narrative, emphasizing the father's journey to reunite with his family amidst an alien invasion. The game's visual storytelling was frequently lauded, with reviewers like Guardian and GamesRadar+ appreciating how it conveys meaning through expressive animations and environmental cues, creating a sense of immersion. Conversely, numerous critics expressed dissatisfaction with the narrative's execution, particularly in its latter stages. Finger Guns remarked on the lack of connection to the characters, while Worth Playing criticized the minimal dialogue and robotic character reactions, which detracted from the emotional impact. Comicbook.com and New Game Network echoed these sentiments, stating that the story becomes confusing and loses its initial promise as it progresses. Several reviewers, including ZTGD and Hardcore Gamer, pointed out that the story lacks a satisfying conclusion, with vague storytelling and unanswered questions leaving players feeling disconnected. This criticism was further supported by Checkpoint Gaming, which lamented the absence of basic story elements that hindered player engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Somerville presents an intriguing and ambitious narrative that captivates with its visual storytelling and emotional themes. However, the execution falters in the second half, leading to confusion and a lack of resolution that diminishes the overall impact. Critics like GameSpot and New Game Network highlighted the struggle between the intimate family drama and the broader alien invasion narrative, indicating a disconnect that ultimately affects player investment. While some reviewers, such as Impulsegamer and TheXboxHub, found beauty and depth in the story, the prevailing sentiment indicates that the game's narrative, while promising, is marred by its ambiguity and lack of character development, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville's gameplay is a mixed bag—it offers engaging environmental puzzles and unique mechanics that some find enjoyable, but is hindered by sluggish controls, technical glitches, and shallow design. Critics note frustrating moments due to unclear paths and repetition, leading to a divisive experience that feels more like a walking simulator than a robust adventure. Ultimately, while it has potential, many players may find it tedious and lacking depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The gameplay of Somerville has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several acknowledging its creative and engaging aspects. Reviewers like Finger Guns and GameSpot highlight the enjoyment derived from environmental puzzle-solving and the use of unique powers to interact with the game world. Critics such as God is a Geek and PC Invasion appreciate the clever mechanics that involve manipulating alien materials, while Hardcore Gamer notes that the puzzle design offers a challenging experience that encourages players to think critically. The game’s ability to create tension through stealth and evasion from threats is also recognized, with several critics mentioning the intense chase sequences that add to the overall experience. However, the gameplay is marred by numerous criticisms, particularly regarding control and technical issues. Critics like Digital Chumps and Cubed3 express frustration over the sparse mechanics and sluggish controls, which detract from the overall enjoyment. Many reviewers, including Push Square and Worth Playing, mention the lack of depth in puzzles and the often unclear path forward, leading to moments of confusion. Technical problems, such as glitches and awkward camera angles, are also frequently cited, with Game Informer and Ragequit.gr noting that these issues can significantly impact immersion and player engagement. The repetitive nature of some puzzles, as pointed out by ZTGD, further contributes to a sense of dissatisfaction among players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Somerville has the potential for engaging gameplay through its puzzle mechanics and atmospheric storytelling, it ultimately suffers from a variety of issues that hinder the experience. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and Twinfinite, highlight that the game feels more like a walking simulator than a fully realized platforming adventure. The combination of simplistic puzzle design, frustrating controls, and technical shortcomings leads to a gameplay experience that, while occasionally rewarding, often feels tedious and lacking in depth. As a result, Somerville stands as a divisive title, with some players finding enjoyment in its unique mechanics, while others are left disappointed by its execution.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville dazzles with its stunning visuals and atmospheric design, earning praise for its artistic ambition and immersive sci-fi setting. Critics celebrate its painterly aesthetic and captivating environments, but some highlight significant flaws like poor visibility, camera issues, and a lack of vibrant colors. Overall, while the game impresses artistically, technical shortcomings lead to a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Somerville have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its artistic ambition and atmospheric qualities. Many reviewers, such as Finger Guns and Pure Xbox, praised the game for its stunning visuals and impressive art direction, with Finger Guns noting the "stunning and artistically beautiful world of devastation" that immerses players in its painted environments. Critics like GameSpot and Guardian emphasized the effective use of lighting and atmospheric effects, contributing to the game's eerie and immersive sci-fi setting. The painterly aesthetic, as mentioned by New Game Network and XboxEra, adds a unique charm, with some reviewers like God is a Geek praising the "gorgeous locations and scenery" that evoke awe through visual storytelling. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in Somerville's graphics and visual design. Digital Chumps lamented the lack of vibrant colors, describing the overall atmosphere as bleak, while Cubed3 criticized the game for lacking the same level of craftsmanship as its predecessor, Inside. Issues such as graphical artifacting, camera view problems, and poor visibility due to low lighting were also highlighted by PlayStation Universe and Push Square, respectively. Additionally, some critics, including ZTGD and Everyeye.it, noted that the game's minimalist aesthetic sometimes led to confusion in gameplay, with small objects becoming difficult to discern. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Somerville presents a visually striking experience that is both beautiful and atmospheric, albeit with some technical and artistic limitations. While many reviewers celebrated its unique art style and immersive environments, others pointed out issues related to visibility, camera control, and a lack of vibrant color, leading to a mixed reception. Critics like Game Informer and VG247 encapsulated this sentiment by acknowledging the game's artistic success while also recognizing the presence of control quirks and visual clarity issues that detracted from the overall experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville's sound design and music have received high praise for creating an immersive atmosphere, with critics lauding its eerie piano tracks and effective environmental noise. However, some reviewers point out issues like awkward silences and minimal background music that detract from the experience. Overall, while its audio enhances the game’s emotional depth, there’s room for improvement to fully engage players.

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 Somerville have garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting its ability to create an immersive and atmospheric experience. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and PlayStation Universe commend the eerie piano tracks and atmospheric sound design that enhance the game's mood, with the latter even nominating it for Outstanding Achievement in Audio Design at the 26th Annual DICE Awards. Finger Guns notes the impressive fusion of piano and synths in the music, while Worth Playing emphasizes the effective use of heavy environmental noise that underscores the wasteland setting. Critics such as GameSpot and TheXboxHub appreciate the emotive quality of the music, which they believe supports the narrative and drives the game's drama forward. Overall, many reviewers agree that the sound design and music contribute significantly to the game's emotional depth and tension. Conversely, several critics have pointed out shortcomings in the sound design and music of Somerville. Finger Guns mentions awkward silences and a lack of ambience during quieter moments, which some feel detracts from the overall experience. New Game Network echoes this sentiment, describing the minimalistic sound design as occasionally lacking, while Xbox Tavern suggests that the underplayed music could have better accentuated the game's dramatic moments. Additionally, GameSpew and Easy Allies express a desire for more background music throughout the game, indicating that at times, the absence of sound feels conspicuous. These criticisms suggest that while the audio elements are effective, there are moments where they fall short of fully engaging the player. The overall consensus among critics is that Somerville features a strong sound design and music that enhances its atmospheric qualities, albeit with some notable drawbacks. Many reviewers, like Game Informer and God is a Geek, celebrate the mysterious and captivating nature of the audio, which effectively contributes to the game's emotional landscape. However, the recurring themes of awkward silences and minimalistic sound design indicate that there are areas for improvement. Critics like IGN and Twinfinite highlight the successful blend of sound and visuals, suggesting that while the audio experience is compelling, it could benefit from a more consistent application of music to elevate the emotional impact throughout the game. Ultimately, Somerville presents a fascinating audio landscape that, despite its flaws, captivates many players and critics alike.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville struggles with pervasive technical issues across all platforms. While the PS5 shows slight improvement, bugs, poor controls, and frame rate drops plague the experience. The Xbox Series X suffers from erratic performance and visual glitches, and the PC version is marred by collision bugs and other irritations. Critics agree the game’s artistic potential is overshadowed by these frustrating flaws, making for a disappointing experience overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

30%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Somerville across different gaming platforms, there are some positive notes to highlight. On the PlayStation 5, while critics like Worth Playing acknowledged that the PS5 version has fewer bugs compared to earlier versions, the overall experience is still marred by some minor issues. On the Xbox Series X, GamingBolt pointed out that despite some muddy visuals, the game still presents moments of striking beauty, suggesting that the artistic design can shine through the technical flaws. For the PC version, VG247 found the technical issues to be "mildly irritating" rather than game-breaking, indicating that while there are problems, they do not entirely detract from the overall experience. However, the negatives across all platforms are significant and consistent. The PS5 version faces numerous technical shortcomings, as highlighted by Digital Chumps, who noted clipping issues, unresponsive objects, and bugs. Push Square echoed this sentiment, mentioning terrible controls and frame rate drops that severely impact gameplay. On the Xbox Series X, critics reported erratic frame rates, glitches that impede progression, and visibility problems, with Cubed3 describing frame rate fluctuations between 20 and 60 fps as making the game feel terrible to play. The Xbox reviews also noted issues like awkward character animations and screen tearing, with New Game Network stating that these distractions are particularly problematic in a game that relies heavily on atmosphere. The PC version also suffers from a range of technical issues, including bugs with collision detection and characters blinking out of existence, as noted by Game Informer and GameSkinny, which can disrupt the immersive experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Somerville struggles with technical performance across all platforms. While there are moments of beauty and some improvements noted in the PS5 version, the game is plagued by bugs, performance issues, and control problems that detract from the experience. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and Game Informer emphasized that while the game has potential, the technical shortcomings significantly hinder its enjoyment. The widespread nature of these issues suggests that, regardless of the platform, players may encounter frustrating technical hurdles that overshadow the game's artistic ambitions.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Somerville impresses with its narrative depth and artistic flair, making it worth a single playthrough. Critics laud its engaging story and multiple endings, but a lack of memorable elements, New Game Plus, and repetitive endings limit its replay value. Clocking in at just 4-6 hours, it’s a delightful, concise experience, yet ultimately feels like a one-and-done rather than a game to revisit. Enjoyable, yes, but not enough to draw players back for more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Somerville reveal a mix of appreciation for its narrative depth and artistic qualities, alongside a recognition of its limitations. Critics like Finger Guns highlight the engaging narrative and beautiful art direction, suggesting that these elements make the game a compelling experience worth revisiting. Additionally, GameSpot and Pure Xbox note the presence of multiple endings and achievements, which provide a layer of player agency and some incentive for replay. The short runtime of approximately four to six hours, as mentioned by Push Square and Everyeye.it, is also seen as a positive aspect, allowing players to experience the game without feeling stretched thin. However, many reviewers express concerns regarding the overall replay value. Digital Chumps points out the lack of memorable connective tissue and little reason to dwell in the world, indicating a sense of finality that discourages further exploration. Critics like Game Informer and Impulsegamer emphasize the absence of a New Game Plus mode or additional context, which would typically encourage players to revisit the game. The repetitive nature of some endings, as noted by IGN Japan and Hardcore Gamer, further diminishes the incentive for multiple playthroughs, leading to a consensus that while the game is enjoyable, it lacks sufficient depth to warrant extensive replay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Somerville offers a visually stunning and narratively rich experience, but its replay value is limited. While some players may find enjoyment in exploring the multiple endings, many reviewers, including GameSpot and TheSixthAxis, suggest that the game’s short duration and the lack of engaging puzzles or a New Game Plus feature may deter players from returning. The game is seen as a worthwhile experience, but it seems to be tailored more for a single, impactful playthrough rather than repeated exploration.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

30%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Somerville reveals a mix of appreciation for its artistic elements and storytelling, alongside criticisms of gameplay mechanics and technical performance. Many critics, such as PlayStation Universe and TheXboxHub, praised the game for its atmospheric visuals, impactful audio design, and engaging narrative. The game is often described as visually stunning, with Finger Guns highlighting its "spectacular action set pieces" and art direction. Critics like Game Informer and God is a Geek also noted the game's memorable moments and gripping story, suggesting that it offers a worthwhile experience despite its flaws. The emotional depth and unique approach to storytelling were also acknowledged by several reviewers, indicating that Somerville has the potential to resonate with players who appreciate narrative-driven experiences. However, the game is not without its significant shortcomings. Many reviewers pointed out issues with gameplay mechanics, controls, and technical performance. Critics from Digital Chumps and Push Square noted that the game suffers from a lack of polish and depth, with the latter stating that it is better off "left alone in the dark." The gameplay was frequently described as sluggish or frustrating, with Cubed3 and New Game Network highlighting the tediousness of platforming and puzzle-solving elements. Additionally, several critics, including GameSpot and Ragequit.gr, expressed disappointment with the narrative's execution, particularly in its latter stages, which detracted from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Somerville is a visually impressive title with an intriguing narrative that ultimately falls short due to gameplay and technical issues. While some reviewers, such as GamingBolt and Stevivor, view it as a promising debut from Jumpship with room for improvement, others like ZTGD and New Game Network caution potential players to approach it with tempered expectations. Overall, Somerville is seen as a mixed bag—offering moments of brilliance but hindered by its flaws, making it a game that may appeal more to genre enthusiasts than to the broader gaming audience.

TL;DR

Somerville impresses with its stunning visuals and engaging narrative, but suffers from significant gameplay and technical issues. Critics praise its artistic elements and emotional depth, yet many find the mechanics sluggish and the story's latter execution lacking. It's a mixed bag that may resonate with narrative enthusiasts but falls short for more casual players. Proceed with tempered expectations.

MONSTER

Reviews

101 reviews found

100

VG247

Nov 14, 2022