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Sonic x Shadow Generations

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Sonic x Shadow Generations
Item: Sonic x Shadow Generations
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAction, Platformer, Single Player

AvailableOct 25, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperSonic Team

Overview

Shadow the Hedgehog is back and teaming up with Classic and Modern Sonic in Sonic X Shadow Generations, an all-new collection featuring two unique experiences! Play as Shadow the Hedgehog in a brand-new story campaign, and tackle iconic 2D and 3D stages as Classic and Modern Sonic in a newly remastered version of Sonic Generations.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Sonic x Shadow Generations" garners positive reviews for its rich character development, especially for Shadow, and a narrative that blends nostalgia with fresh themes. Critics praise the intertwining of Sonic and Shadow’s stories, although some find the plot thin and reliant on nostalgia, with pacing issues detracting from character depth. Overall, it's seen as a solid addition to the franchise that resonates with fans, despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding the story of "Sonic x Shadow Generations" is largely positive, with many critics appreciating the depth and character development, particularly for Shadow. Digital Trends highlights the game's serious narrative centered on self-reflection and confronting past mistakes, which adds a meaningful layer to Shadow's character. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GameSpot commend the narrative as a love letter to Shadow's history, effectively intertwining his origins with Sonic's adventures. The parallel storytelling approach, as noted by Nintendo Insider and IGN, allows for fresh ideas and a nostalgic experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. Additionally, the introduction of new elements and the exploration of themes such as free will and purpose, as mentioned by ElDesmarque and Tech-Gaming, contribute positively to the overall narrative experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the story's execution. Many reviewers, including IGN Benelux and Vgames, describe the plot as thin and not particularly engaging, often relying on nostalgic references rather than delivering a standalone narrative. Critics like Games.cz and Nintenduo point out that while Shadow's campaign adds depth, it sometimes feels simplistic and lacks excitement compared to Sonic's more vibrant narrative. The pacing issues are also highlighted, with some reviewers, such as IGN Spain, noting that the game tries to cover too much in a limited timeframe, which can detract from character interactions and the development of antagonists like Black Doom. The overall consensus among critics suggests that "Sonic x Shadow Generations" successfully blends nostalgia with new storytelling elements, particularly through Shadow's campaign. While there are criticisms regarding the simplicity and pacing of the narrative, many reviewers agree that the game provides a worthwhile experience for fans, especially those familiar with Shadow's backstory. Critics like Hooked Gamers and Merlin'in Kazanı emphasize the effective intertwining of Sonic and Shadow's narratives, creating a dual campaign that enhances the overall depth of the game. Despite its flaws, the game is seen as a commendable addition to the Sonic franchise, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sonic x Shadow Generations impresses with its mix of 2D and 3D gameplay, earning praise for smooth mechanics and nostalgic elements. Critics celebrate Shadow’s unique abilities but note flaws in 3D segments, including automation issues and performance dips on the Switch. While imprecise controls and level design can frustrate, the game largely succeeds in blending classic and modern Sonic, delivering an engaging experience with fresh challenges. Overall, it’s a solid addition to the franchise, despite some notable shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Sonic x Shadow Generations has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, with many praising its blend of 2D and 3D elements. Reviewers like Digital Trends and Eurogamer highlighted the game's thrilling and cohesive mechanics, emphasizing the smooth movement and level design that maintains momentum. Critics such as But Why Tho? and COGconnected noted the innovative gameplay features, including Shadow's unique abilities like Chaos Control, which add depth and variety to the experience. The nostalgic elements from previous Sonic titles, combined with modern gameplay mechanics, were also appreciated, as seen in the reviews from Generación Xbox and GAMINGbible, who noted the successful integration of classic and new elements. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable flaws in the gameplay. Critical Hits and Pure Nintendo mentioned issues with the 3D segments feeling overly automated and inconsistent, which can detract from player control and immersion. Performance issues on the Nintendo Switch were also highlighted by SpazioGames, affecting the experience for some players. Additionally, IGN Spain and GameSpot pointed out that while some new abilities enhance gameplay, others can disrupt the sense of speed, leading to frustrating moments. Critics like Digital Chumps and XGN echoed concerns about imprecise controls and restrictive level design, particularly in 3D sections, which can hinder the overall enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic x Shadow Generations offers a strong gameplay experience that effectively combines classic and modern elements, with Shadow's unique mechanics enhancing the overall enjoyment. While there are acknowledged shortcomings, particularly in the 3D segments and performance on certain platforms, the majority of reviewers, including Nintendo Life and GameSpew, found the gameplay engaging and fun. The positive feedback suggests that the game successfully captures the essence of the Sonic franchise while introducing fresh challenges, making it a worthy addition to the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sonic x Shadow Generations impresses with vibrant visuals and solid performance, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2, earning praise for enhanced graphics and expressive character designs. However, critics argue it doesn't fully exploit next-gen capabilities, with some areas feeling outdated and visually lacking. Overall, it modernizes the classic but falls short of delivering a groundbreaking experience, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Sonic x Shadow Generations have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly highlighting the vibrant colors and improved performance on newer hardware. Many reviewers, such as GamingBolt and GameSpew, praised the enhanced visuals on the Nintendo Switch 2, noting that the game runs at a stable 60fps and features crisper graphics compared to its predecessors. Critics like Metro GameCentral and IGN also acknowledged the remastered graphics, which showcase iconic locations with more polished environments and expressive character designs. The unique art style and aesthetic appeal, especially in Shadow's campaign, were also positively noted, with GameSpot emphasizing the sci-fi and fantastical locales that enhance the overall visual experience. Despite the praise, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Reviewers such as Vgames and IGN Benelux noted that while the graphics are improved, they do not fully leverage the capabilities of current-generation consoles, describing the remaster as a simple update rather than a groundbreaking overhaul. The hub worlds were criticized for being visually unimpressive and lacking polish, as highlighted by IGN Spain and DBLTAP. Furthermore, some critics, including Cubed3 and Nintenduo, mentioned that performance modes could lead to blurry backgrounds, detracting from the overall visual fidelity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic x Shadow Generations offers a visually appealing experience that successfully modernizes the original while introducing new elements. However, many agree that the remaster falls short of being a true next-gen experience. Critics like Push Square and Worth Playing encapsulated this sentiment, noting that while the game looks good in motion and captures the essence of the Sonic franchise, it still shows signs of age in certain aspects, particularly in cutscenes and some environmental designs. The mixed feedback suggests that while the game has made strides in visual quality, it still leaves room for improvement to meet the expectations set by modern gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sonic x Shadow Generations receives rave reviews for its nostalgic and immersive sound design, with critics praising remixed classic tracks and the engaging voice acting by Keanu Reeves. While some noted inconsistencies in sound design and a few questionable musical choices, the overall consensus is that the audio experience significantly enhances gameplay, appealing to both new players and franchise veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Sonic x Shadow Generations have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the nostalgic and immersive quality of the soundtrack, highlighting the excellent remixes of classic Sonic tracks. Digital Trends noted the game’s ability to evoke nostalgia through its classic songs and remixes, while GameCritics emphasized the impressive track list that enhances the overall experience. Critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer appreciated how the music complements the gameplay, with GameSpot specifically mentioning the fitting rock tracks that align well with Shadow's character. The inclusion of voice acting by Keanu Reeves, as highlighted by Daily Star and Eurogamer, also adds a unique layer to the audio experience, further enhancing the game's appeal. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there were some criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Pure Nintendo pointed out inconsistencies in sound design, particularly in cutscene vocals, which could detract from the overall experience. Metro GameCentral mentioned a forced use of the pink Wisp power in one level that affected the musical experience, and while the game features a plethora of remixed tracks, some critics felt that certain music tracks were replaced, which might not sit well with long-time fans of the franchise. Additionally, while the voice acting was generally well-received, Worth Playing described it as "cheesy," which may not appeal to all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic x Shadow Generations excels in its sound design and music, creating a vibrant audio landscape that enhances gameplay and nostalgia. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and Nintendo Insider, emphasized the strong audio experience, with many noting that the remixes and new arrangements elevate the game significantly. Critics across platforms agree that the soundtrack not only pays homage to the franchise's history but also introduces fresh elements that resonate with both new and veteran players. The combination of nostalgic tunes, engaging remixes, and compelling voice acting contributes to a robust auditory experience that is a highlight of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Sonic x Shadow Generations" features a split reception for its voice acting. Keanu Reeves' portrayal of Shadow shines and the revamped dialogue impresses some critics, but many, including IGN Spain and Nintenduo, argue that the performances often fall flat emotionally and lack consistency. Despite some charm, the mixed execution could dampen player enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "Sonic x Shadow Generations" has garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting positive aspects that contribute to the game's appeal. Notably, Keanu Reeves' portrayal of Shadow the Hedgehog has been frequently praised, with Daily Star and ZTGD both emphasizing his performance as a standout element. The inclusion of rewritten and re-recorded dialogue, as noted by GAMINGbible, is also appreciated, suggesting that the developers made a concerted effort to enhance the overall experience for fans. Additionally, Worth Playing's mention of the dub voice acting being "cheesy in a good way" indicates that some critics found charm in the performances, particularly in how they align with character personalities. On the flip side, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the voice acting. IGN Spain criticized the performances for failing to effectively convey emotions, noting instances where the voice did not match the characters' visual expressions. This sentiment is echoed by Nintenduo, who described the voice acting as "somewhat lacking," suggesting that it detracts from the overall gaming experience. Pure Nintendo further elaborated on this issue, indicating that some cutscene vocals might disinterest players, hinting at potential problems with direction rather than the talent of the voice actors themselves. The critique from IGN Benelux about a missed opportunity for additional voice acting content also suggests that there may have been room for improvement in this area. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in "Sonic x Shadow Generations." While the performance of Keanu Reeves has been widely celebrated and the efforts to rewrite and re-record dialogue have been acknowledged, many reviewers have raised concerns about emotional delivery and consistency. Critics like IGN Spain and Nintenduo highlight these deficiencies, which seem to overshadow the positive aspects noted by others. Thus, while there are commendable elements in the voice acting, the overall execution appears inconsistent, leading to a mixed reception that could impact players' enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Sonic x Shadow Generations" sees mixed reviews on technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch 2 shines with smooth gameplay and quick load times, though the original Switch struggles with frame drops. The PlayStation 5 offers a mixed bag—some praise its performance, while others highlight glitches and control issues. The Xbox Series X is the most stable but still has minor optimization flaws. Overall, while the Switch 2 and Xbox Series X show promise, lingering performance issues hint at a need for future improvements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Sonic x Shadow Generations" has garnered a range of opinions across different gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like Nintendo Insider and Digital Chumps noted that the game runs smoothly with minimal slowdown, achieving a stable 60 frames per second on the Switch 2, which is a significant improvement over the original Switch version. Critics such as ElDesmarque and Tech-Gaming praised the near-instantaneous load times and overall fluid gameplay experience. On the PlayStation 5, while some reviewers like GameCritics and Games.cz reported smooth performance with minimal technical issues, others such as IGN Spain and VGC acknowledged occasional glitches and frame rate drops, particularly during Sonic's story. The Xbox Series X version received positive remarks from Pure Xbox and Generación Xbox, highlighting its stable performance and lack of major issues. Despite the positives, several criticisms emerged regarding the technical performance across platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like SpazioGames pointed out significant performance issues, particularly with frame rate drops that could disrupt gameplay. Cubed3 also mentioned glitches and control issues that detracted from the overall enjoyment. For the PlayStation 5, IGN Spain criticized the imprecise controls in 3D sections and the unfinished feel of open-world areas, while Push Square noted judders and frame rate dips in certain spots. Even on the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox mentioned that some cutscenes lacked the same level of remastering, indicating that not everything was optimized. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed but generally favorable reception of the technical performance across all platforms. While the Nintendo Switch 2 version stands out for its improvements and stable performance, some reviewers still noted minor issues that could affect gameplay. The PlayStation 5 version received a blend of praise for its smoothness from critics like GameCritics and GamesHub, but also faced scrutiny for glitches and control issues, as highlighted by IGN Spain. The Xbox Series X version appears to be the most stable, with few reported issues. In summary, while there are notable strengths in technical performance across platforms, particularly with the Switch 2 and Xbox Series X, lingering issues still affect the overall experience, suggesting room for improvement in future updates or iterations of the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Sonic x Shadow Generations" is a hit for newcomers and franchise fans, boasting over 150 stages and rich collectibles that enhance replayability. Critics praise its diverse gameplay styles, but returning players face a letdown with minimal new content and repetitive level designs. The game shines with nostalgia but may feel stale for veterans, prompting some to suggest waiting for a sale. Overall, it’s great for fresh eyes but lacks fresh excitement for seasoned players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of "Sonic x Shadow Generations" present a mixed but generally positive outlook, particularly for new players and fans of the franchise. Many critics, such as IGN and GamingBolt, highlight the extensive content available, including over 150 stages and various challenge levels that encourage players to revisit the game. Critics like Impulsegamer and Movies Games and Tech emphasize the allure of collectibles, hidden items, and the exploration opportunities that enrich the gameplay experience. The inclusion of different gameplay styles for both Sonic and Shadow, as noted by IGN France and GameCritics, further enhances replayability, appealing to a wide audience, including completionists and speedrunners. However, there are notable drawbacks that critics have pointed out, particularly regarding the lack of new content for returning players. IGN Benelux and GameSpew mention that the absence of additional features or upgrades diminishes the replay value for those who have already experienced the game on other platforms. Critics like Digital Chumps and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, indicating that the linearity of levels and the nature of collectibles may frustrate completionists. Moreover, some reviews, such as those from Nintendo Life and CGMagazine, suggest that while the game may offer replay value for newcomers, existing players might find the experience less rewarding due to the minimal enhancements over previous versions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Sonic x Shadow Generations" provides a substantial amount of replay value, particularly for new players and dedicated fans, thanks to its engaging level design and collectible challenges. However, the game’s appeal may wane for those who have played earlier versions, as highlighted by critics like Eurogamer Germany and Pure Nintendo, who recommend waiting for a sale before purchasing. While the game is praised for its nostalgic elements and varied gameplay, the lack of significant new content for returning players remains a common concern, suggesting that the replay value is highly contingent on the player's prior experience with the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Sonic x Shadow Generations is largely positive, with many critics praising the game for its nostalgic appeal and innovative gameplay elements. Reviewers such as GamesHub and Movies Games and Tech highlight the successful blend of classic Sonic gameplay with modern enhancements, making it a compelling experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. The addition of Shadow's campaign has been particularly well-received, with critics like Daily Star and Checkpoint Gaming noting the high-paced gameplay and engaging level design. The visual upgrades and refined hub world have also garnered appreciation, with GAMINGbible emphasizing the exceptional experience offered by the remaster. However, despite the praise, several criticisms have emerged regarding the game. Reviewers from IGN Spain and Metro GameCentral express disappointment in the lack of depth in Shadow's gameplay, describing it as rushed and shallow compared to Sonic's sections. Additionally, many critics, including Pure Nintendo and GameSpew, point out that the game may not justify the price for returning players due to minimal new content. Technical issues and inconsistencies in gameplay have also been highlighted by critics like Eurogamer and XGN, suggesting that while the game has its strengths, it is not without its shortcomings. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Sonic x Shadow Generations is a solid entry in the franchise that successfully revitalizes classic elements while introducing new gameplay features. Critics like Digital Trends and Generación Xbox emphasize its status as a must-play for fans, particularly for those who appreciate the nostalgia it brings. However, the mixed opinions on Shadow's gameplay and the lack of significant enhancements for returning players indicate that while the game is enjoyable, it may not fully satisfy all segments of the Sonic fanbase. Overall, the game is viewed as a worthwhile experience, especially for newcomers, but it may leave some long-time fans wanting more.

TL;DR

Sonic x Shadow Generations receives mostly positive reviews for its nostalgic gameplay and innovative features, appealing to both old and new fans. Critics praise Shadow's campaign and visual upgrades but criticize its lack of depth and technical issues. While it’s considered a solid addition to the franchise, the minimal new content might not justify the price for returning players—leaving some long-time fans wanting more. Overall, it's a must-play for newcomers but has mixed appeal for veterans.

MONSTER

Reviews

160 reviews found

Hooked Gamers

Oct 29, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a thrilling return for fans and a compelling introduction for newcomers, offering a mix of new content and a celebration of the franchise's history.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Nov 8, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is recommended for Sonic fans as it offers a mix of classic and modern gameplay with enhancements, providing a great update on familiar levels. It also serves as a good entry point for newcomers to the series.

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GamesHub

PlayStation 5

Oct 22, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is praised as a fantastic successor to Sonic Generations, with the addition of Shadow's storyline and unique gameplay elements making it a very worthy addition to the series.

Movies Games and Tech

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2024

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

The review gives Sonic x Shadow Generations a solid 9/10 rating, praising it as a must-have for Sonic fans with a nearly flawless remaster of Sonic Generations and a well-crafted new experience in Shadow Generations. It mentions the visual upgrades, refined hub world, and the game's value for both long-time fans and newcomers.

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GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is praised for its remastered visuals, unique gameplay for Shadow, well-handled story, and overall exceptional experience.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is praised for giving Shadow fans everything they could wish for in a celebration of the Ultimate Lifeform's history. The game is described as a fun and enjoyable experience, with improvements over previous titles in the series.

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IGN

PlayStation 5

Oct 21, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is praised for its fantastic combination of classic Sonic gameplay and smartly designed Shadow levels, making it one of the reviewer's favorite Sonic games. The game offers a refreshing experience with engaging gameplay, creative level design, and excellent music.

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GameCritics

PlayStation 5

Nov 25, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is praised as one of the finest platforming experiences of the year, combining nostalgia with modern gameplay.

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Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Apr 7, 2025

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a polished and exhilarating experience, particularly highlighting Shadow's adventure, making it a must-play for fans of the series.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Oct 30, 2024

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

Sonic X Shadow Generations is a game that changes the reviewer's perspective on the franchise, providing a fresh experience and worth checking out.

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