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MONSTER

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story
Item: Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Puzzle and Logic, Single Player

AvailableNov 1, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperTequila Works

Overview

In this single-player adventure, venture into the idyllic but treacherous world of the Freljord as Nunu, a young boy on a quest to find his lost mother. Unearth the secrets, myths, and legends buried deep in the frozen tundra alongside your best friend, a wise and playful yeti named Willump, and unfold an inspiring story one puzzle at a time. Developed by Tequila Works, the studio behind RiME, Song of Nunu: A League of Legends StoryTM invites players old and new to experience the League of Legends universe from a fresh lens.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" has received mixed reviews, praised for its emotional depth and the heartwarming bond between Nunu and his yeti companion, Willump. Critics admire its charming themes of friendship and nostalgia, appealing to both new and veteran players. However, many also criticize the narrative for being predictable, simplistic, and lacking character depth, particularly in its villain, Lissandra. While the story shines in its warmth, it ultimately falls short of profound impact, catering mostly to a younger audience. Overall, it's a delightful yet straightforward adventure that resonates well with its target demographic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of "Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly highlighting its emotional depth and character dynamics. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and GameGrin praised the narrative for being "emotional, delightful, and immersive," with moments that resonate with players, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. The relationship between Nunu and his yeti companion, Willump, is frequently cited as a strong point, with critics noting its heartwarming nature and the themes of friendship and family that run throughout the story. Critics from outlets such as Nintendo Life and PlayStation Universe echoed these sentiments, appreciating the compelling narrative that is accessible to both newcomers and veterans of the League of Legends universe. However, several reviewers pointed out significant drawbacks in the storytelling aspect of the game. Critics like CGMagazine and DualShockers described the narrative as predictable and simplistic, lacking emotional highs and depth. The character development was often criticized as one-dimensional, with CGMagazine stating that the characters do not transcend their caricature-like representations. Additionally, IGN Spain mentioned that excessive dialogue and a lack of depth in the villain, Lissandra, hindered the overall narrative experience. This sentiment was echoed by others who felt that while the story had its charming moments, it ultimately fell short of delivering a more profound impact. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to reflect a split perspective on "Song of Nunu's" narrative. While many reviewers appreciate the heartwarming themes and the engaging bond between Nunu and Willump, there is a clear acknowledgment of the story's limitations in terms of complexity and emotional depth. Critics like Tech-Gaming and God is a Geek noted that the narrative is primarily aimed at a younger audience, which may explain some of its straightforwardness. Despite its shortcomings, the game successfully captures the essence of companionship and adventure, making it a pleasant experience for players, as highlighted by Gaming Age and WellPlayed. Ultimately, "Song of Nunu" offers a charming, if not entirely groundbreaking, narrative that resonates with its target audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story impresses with charming platforming and puzzle-solving, winning over some critics with its engaging exploration and cooperative gameplay. However, it suffers from a lack of depth and challenge, leading to repetitive mechanics and uninspiring combat. While accessible for younger audiences, seasoned players may find it lacking in excitement and complexity, resulting in a simplistic experience that fails to fully engage.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story has garnered some positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging platforming and puzzle-solving elements. Reviewers like CGMagazine and Everyeye.it noted the game's focus on exploration and light platforming, which can provide quick and immediate fun for players. Critics such as Shacknews and COGconnected praised the interesting puzzle-platforming mechanics, highlighting the use of Nunu's magical flute to solve puzzles and engage with the environment. Many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Press Start Australia, appreciated the narrative-driven structure and the cooperative dynamic between Nunu and Willump, which adds a layer of charm to the gameplay experience. However, the gameplay has also faced significant criticism, particularly regarding its lack of depth and challenge. Reviewers like PCGamesN and DualShockers described the mechanics as bland and uncomplicated, with repetitive combat and puzzles that can become frustrating, especially those that are time-based or require precise timing, as noted by Noisy Pixel. Critics such as Meristation and GameGrin pointed out that while the game is designed to be accessible and family-friendly, this approach may disappoint players seeking more complex and engaging challenges. The combat system, in particular, has been criticized for being uninteresting and clunky, with several critics, including PlayStation Universe and Multiplayer.it, noting that it fails to provide the excitement expected from an action-adventure title. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Song of Nunu offers a charming yet simplistic gameplay experience. While the game successfully incorporates enjoyable platforming and puzzle-solving elements, it struggles with repetitive mechanics and a lack of challenge, as highlighted by critics like God is a Geek and LevelUp. The emphasis on accessibility and family-friendly design may appeal to younger audiences, but seasoned players might find the gameplay lacking in depth and variety. As a result, while the game has its merits, many reviewers agree that it ultimately falls short of delivering a fully engaging adventure experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story dazzles with its enchanting art style and vibrant environments, earning praise for its Pixar-like visuals and charming design. Critics laud its immersive landscapes, especially the snowy tundras of the Freljord. However, technical flaws like pixelation and framerate drops on the Switch, along with a lack of environmental variety, dampen the experience. While the game captivates with its artistic direction, it falls short of Riot Games' high standards due to these execution issues. Overall, it's a visually appealing adventure, but not without its drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the game's enchanting art style and vibrant environments. Reviewers like App Trigger and COGconnected praise the stunning visuals, highlighting the breathtaking landscapes and endearing character designs that enhance immersion. The game’s Pixar-esque aesthetic, as noted by COGconnected, contributes to a cozy and charming world that resonates well with players. Critics from Nintendo Life and Vandal emphasize the stylized visuals that align perfectly with the lighthearted tone of the game, while others, such as Pocket Tactics and XboxEra, commend the beautifully crafted snowy tundras and detailed environments that effectively capture the essence of the Freljord. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks in the visual presentation. Checkpoint Gaming mentions occasional pixelation issues and framerate drops on the Nintendo Switch, which detracts from the otherwise stunning visuals. Everyeye.it expresses ambivalence, noting that while the backgrounds are detailed, there is a lack of diversity and attention to detail throughout the game. Furthermore, Gamereactor UK and God is a Geek highlight a sense of predictability in the visual design, suggesting that the game lacks innovation and variety, particularly in its predominantly snowy landscapes. This sentiment is echoed by LevelUp, who notes that while the minimalistic design is charming, it ultimately suffers from a lack of environmental variety. The overall consensus among critics reflects a mix of admiration for the game's artistic direction and disappointment regarding its technical execution. While many reviewers celebrate the charming and colorful visuals, as seen in the opinions of KeenGamer and WellPlayed, there is a clear acknowledgment of the game's limitations, particularly in terms of graphical fidelity and performance. Critics like IGN Italia and Meristation point out that the visuals, while effective in conveying the story's emotional moments, do not meet the high standards set by Riot Games in other titles. Thus, while Song of Nunu presents a visually appealing experience that captures the whimsical essence of its world, it is marred by technical shortcomings that prevent it from achieving its full potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics widely praise Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story for its enchanting soundtrack, featuring the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, and innovative flute mechanics that enhance gameplay and storytelling. While the music adds emotional depth and immersion, some reviewers note issues with polish and memorability. Overall, the sound design is celebrated as a key strength, despite minor critiques on its execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story have received a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the musical score, which features a performance by the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, with Checkpoint Gaming highlighting its beauty and overall enhancement of the gaming experience. The flute mechanics, integral to both gameplay and puzzle-solving, were frequently noted as a standout feature, with IGN Spain and KeenGamer emphasizing how these elements enrich the narrative and exploration aspects of the game. Critics like Vandal and But Why Tho? appreciated the charming and immersive qualities of the music, describing it as both beautiful and emotionally resonant, contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out that while the music is enjoyable, the overall audiovisual experience could have been more polished and diverse, as noted by Everyeye.it. Shacknews mentioned that while the soundtrack is good, transitions and musical cuts can be rough, which detracts from the overall flow of the experience. Additionally, despite the praise for the flute mechanics, some reviewers felt that the soundtrack may not leave a lasting impression outside of the game context, as noted by WellPlayed. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Song of Nunu features a captivating and well-integrated soundtrack that enhances both the gameplay and storytelling. The unique flute mechanics and the orchestral score are frequently highlighted as key strengths, with many reviewers, including those from IGN Italia and GameGrin, agreeing on the music's importance in creating an engaging atmosphere. While there are some criticisms regarding the polish and memorability of the soundtrack, the general sentiment leans towards appreciation for the emotional depth and immersive qualities that the sound design brings to the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story has received high praise for its emotional depth and character connection, particularly highlighting child actor Adrian Raio's performance as Nunu. Critics commend the game's localization with full voiceovers in multiple languages, enhancing the narrative. While some found Nunu's chatty nature paired with Willump's silence potentially divisive, the overall consensus is that the voice acting significantly enriches the game's charm and immersion, making it a standout element in the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story has garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the emotional depth brought to the characters, particularly Nunu, whose voice acting was highlighted by Checkpoint Gaming for its ability to help players forge a connection with him. Similarly, Adventure Game Hotspot commended the performance of child actor Adrian Raio, noting his authentic conveyance of a wide range of emotions. The game’s commitment to localization was also appreciated, with Everyeye.it and Nintenderos noting the full voiceovers in Italian and Spanish, respectively, which enriched the story-driven experience. Critics like LevelUp and GamersRD emphasized the high quality of the voice acting, with specific praise for the performances of Leo Garduza and the well-chosen voice for Nunu, respectively, contributing to the game's overall charm. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there were a few criticisms regarding the voice acting. Some critics, like Screen Rant, pointed out that the dynamic between Nunu's incessant chatter and Willump's non-verbal communication might not appeal to everyone, particularly those who are less fond of feisty child performances. While the majority of reviewers celebrated the voice acting, the absence of specific details regarding the quality of the performances in some critiques, such as from PlayStation Universe and GameGrin, suggests that there might be a lack of depth in the analysis of certain aspects of the voice work. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Song of Nunu is of high quality, significantly enhancing the narrative and character development. The use of familiar voices from League of Legends was particularly noted by Eurogamer Germany and Meristation, adding a layer of authenticity that fans of the franchise appreciate. The emotional resonance and charm brought forth by the performances were underscored by multiple reviewers, leading to a strong endorsement of the game's voice acting as a key component of its success. With the majority of critics praising the voice acting, it is clear that this aspect of the game has played a vital role in creating an engaging and immersive experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch struggles with significant frame drops and glitches, while the PS5 is generally stable but has some loading and command issues. The PC version shines with high frame rates but also faces criticism for frame rate drops and camera problems. Overall, the game needs optimization to fully meet player expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of "Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story" across various platforms, it is evident that there are some positives to highlight. For the Nintendo Switch, critics like NintendoWorldReport noted that the game runs smoothly with only minor frame rate drops during transitions. Additionally, Nintenderos mentioned that while there are occasional minor performance issues, they do not significantly impact the overall experience. On the PlayStation 5, GamersRD found the game to perform adequately, with only minor technical hiccups and camera positioning issues. Similarly, PlayStation Universe did not report any specific technical issues, suggesting a generally stable performance. On PC, XboxEra praised the game for maintaining a fluid 120 frames per second on high-end systems and a range of 70-90 frames per second on laptops, indicating that the performance is fantastic on this platform. However, the criticisms regarding technical performance are more pronounced, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Several critics, including CGMagazine and GGRecon, highlighted frequent frame dips, crashes, and glitches that hinder the gameplay experience. Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected also noted issues with lag and texture popping, which detracted from immersion. On the PlayStation 5, while the performance was generally adequate, The Games Machine pointed out occasional loading delays and imprecision in command responses. The PC version, while praised for its performance by some, also faced criticism; Meristation and PCGamesN reported significant frame rate drops and camera problems, with IGN Italia mentioning frustrating checkpoint issues that disrupt gameplay flow. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of "Song of Nunu" across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version appears to struggle the most, with many critics citing significant performance issues that affect gameplay, as noted by GGRecon and Pocket Tactics. The PlayStation 5 version is viewed as stable but not without its flaws, while the PC version received a split response, with some praising its performance and others highlighting notable technical problems. This disparity indicates that while the game has potential, it requires further optimization and polish to meet the expectations of its players across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story garners mixed but mostly positive reviews, praised for collectibles and exploration with around 10 hours of gameplay. However, its short length (5-6 hours), linear gameplay, and minimal replay incentives leave many critics questioning its long-term appeal. While fans may enjoy the lore, the lack of depth and complexity limits its replay value, making it more suited for casual, family audiences rather than seasoned gamers seeking a richer experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story present a mixed but generally positive outlook on certain aspects. Critics like Nintenderos and Nintendo Life highlight that the game includes collectibles and hidden side paths, which encourage exploration and provide some incentive for players to engage with the world beyond the main narrative. Additionally, Vandal mentions that the game offers around 10 hours of gameplay, which is considered a reasonable duration for players looking for a more extensive experience. For fans of the League of Legends universe, as noted by GamersRD and Screen Rant, the game may offer additional enjoyment through its lore and collectibles, making it appealing for dedicated fans. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the limitations of replay value. Checkpoint Gaming and Gamereactor UK point out that the game is relatively short, with completion times of around 5 to 6 hours, which may deter players from revisiting it. The linear nature of the gameplay is a recurring theme, as highlighted by Adventure Game Hotspot and Hey Poor Player, suggesting that the lack of variability and depth in mechanics may lead to a less engaging experience for players seeking more complexity. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Tech-Gaming also emphasize that the game offers little incentive for replay, implying that once the story is completed, there may not be much left to explore. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a recognition of the game's charm and potential for exploration, tempered by concerns about its limited replay value. While some reviewers appreciate the collectibles and the additional lore for completionists, many agree that the linear gameplay and short duration significantly restrict the game's replayability. Critics like LevelUp and Meristation encapsulate this sentiment by noting that the game is designed for a family audience and lacks the depth that might attract more experienced gamers. Thus, while Song of Nunu has its merits, especially for fans of the franchise, its replay value appears to be constrained, making it less appealing for those looking for a more robust gaming experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story reflects a mix of appreciation for its narrative and charm, particularly among fans of the League of Legends universe. Critics like LevelUp and Gamereactor UK highlight the game’s engaging story and character dynamics, emphasizing its appeal to younger audiences and newcomers. Many reviewers, such as Pocket Tactics and Nintendo Life, commend the game for its wholesome storytelling and captivating environments, suggesting that it succeeds in creating a cozy and enchanting adventure. The emotional depth captured in the relationship between Nunu and Willump is frequently noted, with Digital Chumps calling it a "masterclass in storytelling" and emphasizing its emotional impact. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. A significant number of critics, including CGMagazine and God is a Geek, express disappointment in the lack of gameplay depth and complexity, labeling it as suitable primarily for casual players. Technical issues have also been a common point of contention, particularly on the Nintendo Switch, as noted by Everyeye.it and Pocket Tactics. Critics like Tech-Gaming and Meristation point out that while the game is charming, it ultimately feels generic and lacks the originality that could elevate it beyond being a simple spin-off. The repetitive nature of puzzles and platforming is mentioned by several reviewers, indicating a sense of monotony that detracts from the overall experience. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Song of Nunu is a charming and heartfelt adventure that resonates well with fans of the League of Legends franchise, but it falls short in terms of gameplay depth and technical polish. While many, such as Vandal and WellPlayed, recommend it for its narrative and emotional appeal, others like Gamereactor Spain and IGN Portugal caution that it may not captivate players unfamiliar with the source material. The game is generally viewed as a pleasant, if flawed, addition to the League of Legends universe, with most critics suggesting it is best suited for a younger audience or dedicated fans rather than those seeking a more complex gaming experience.

TL;DR

Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story charms with its heartfelt narrative and character dynamics, winning over fans and newcomers alike. Critics praise its emotional depth and cozy storytelling, though many note it lacks gameplay complexity and faces technical issues, especially on the Switch. While it's a delightful adventure for younger players and loyal fans, its repetitive puzzles and generic feel may leave others wanting more. A flawed but enjoyable addition to the League of Legends universe.

MONSTER

Reviews

82 reviews found

But Why Tho?

Oct 29, 2023