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South of Midnight

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of South of Midnight
Item: South of Midnight
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Single Player

AvailableApr 8, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PC

DeveloperCompulsion Games

Overview

South of Midnight is a new action-adventure from Compulsion Games. Explore the mythos and confront mysterious creatures of the Deep South in this modern folktale while learning to weave an ancient power to surmount obstacles and face the pain haunting your hometown.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

South of Midnight earns high praise for its emotional depth and Southern Gothic storytelling, following Hazel Flood's quest to reunite with her mother post-flood. Critics celebrate its rich themes of family and healing, as well as character development. However, some note weaknesses like simplistic dialogue and pacing issues. Overall, it’s seen as a compelling narrative that blends fantasy with real-world issues, making it a significant entry in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

85%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of South of Midnight is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and rich thematic exploration. The narrative follows Hazel Flood on her journey to reunite with her mother after a devastating flood, and critics have highlighted the game's incorporation of Southern Gothic storytelling, folklore, and themes of family, trauma, and healing. For instance, But Why Tho? emphasizes the complex emotional elements and social decay that Hazel navigates, while GamingTrend notes the rich symbolism and focus on empathy throughout Hazel's journey. Critics like Shacknews and Eurogamer Portugal also commend the character development and the intimate portrayal of Hazel's relationship with her mother, making the story both relatable and impactful. However, some reviewers pointed out notable weaknesses in the narrative. Critics such as Atomix and ComicBook mentioned that while the story is engaging, it can feel simplistic at times, with dialogue that lacks depth or becomes repetitive. Additionally, GRYOnline.pl raised concerns about pacing issues and the lack of closure on certain narrative threads, which can leave players feeling unsatisfied. Other critics, like IGN, noted that while the story is charming, it occasionally lacks clarity and finesse, suggesting that the narrative structure could benefit from further refinement. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that South of Midnight offers a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative experience. Many reviewers, including those from GamingBolt and Xbox Tavern, highlighted the game's ability to blend fantastical elements with real-world issues, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates with players. The emotional arcs of the characters, particularly Hazel's journey of self-discovery and healing, are frequently mentioned as standout aspects of the game. As a whole, the critics agree that South of Midnight successfully captures the essence of Southern culture and folklore, making it a noteworthy addition to the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

South of Midnight impresses with its engaging platforming and exploration, earning praise for fluid traversal and creative combat mechanics. Memorable boss battles stand out, enhancing the experience. However, critics flag repetitive combat and a lack of innovation, leading to a linear and familiar gameplay that can feel monotonous. While mechanically sound, it ultimately falls short for players seeking depth and variety, blending enjoyable elements with significant shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

83%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of South of Midnight has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging platforming mechanics and exploration elements. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Portugal and Xbox Tavern, praised the fluidity of traversal and the creative use of Hazel's powers for both combat and puzzle-solving. Critics like Daily Star highlighted the well-paced difficulty curve and the presence of a skill tree for upgrades, which adds a layer of progression to the gameplay experience. Furthermore, boss battles were frequently noted as memorable highlights, with Checkpoint Gaming and Gameliner emphasizing their satisfaction, suggesting that these encounters elevate the overall gameplay. However, a significant portion of the reviews pointed out several shortcomings in the game's mechanics. Many critics, including Atomix and CGMagazine, criticized the combat as repetitive and lacking depth, suggesting that it fails to evolve as the game progresses. ElDesmarque and GamingBolt echoed this sentiment, noting that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it often feels derivative and overly familiar, which detracts from the excitement. The linear structure of the game was also a common point of contention, with reviewers like GRYOnline.pl and MGG stating that it can lead to a monotonous experience, particularly in the latter stages of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while South of Midnight offers enjoyable platforming and exploration, it struggles with repetitive combat and a lack of innovation. Many reviewers, such as IGN and GamingTrend, acknowledged that the game is mechanically sound but does not push boundaries, leaving players with a sense of familiarity rather than excitement. The blend of positive aspects, such as engaging traversal and memorable boss encounters, is somewhat overshadowed by the criticisms of combat repetitiveness and a linear gameplay experience, suggesting that while the game has its merits, it may not fully satisfy players looking for depth and variety.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

South of Midnight dazzles with its unique stop-motion visuals that critics are raving about, praising its richly detailed environments and vibrant character designs that evoke the Southern landscape. While the stunning art enhances the storytelling, some reviewers noted inconsistent animation quality and technical hiccups like frame rate drops that could hinder immersion. Despite these flaws, the overwhelming consensus is that its captivating visuals make it one of the year's standout titles, solidifying its place as a visually engaging experience in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

90%

Mixed (50-79)

10%

Negative (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of South of Midnight have garnered widespread acclaim among critics, with many praising its unique stop-motion aesthetic that sets it apart from other titles. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and CGMagazine highlighted the game's stunning visuals, noting the richly detailed environments and character designs that effectively capture the essence of the Southern landscape. The artistic direction is consistently praised, with critics like ElDesmarque and TechRadar Gaming emphasizing how the visuals enhance the storytelling experience and contribute to the game's overall atmosphere. The vibrant colors and hauntingly beautiful art style have been described as a significant strength, with many reviewers, including IGN and XboxEra, commending the game for its painterly character designs and impressive lighting. However, despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out inconsistencies in the execution of the visual design. Atomix and Multiplayer.it noted that while the game features stunning visuals, there are moments where the animation quality varies, leading to a mixed experience. Additionally, issues such as frame rate drops and texture lag during cutscenes were mentioned by ComicBook and Stevivor, suggesting that the technical implementation may not fully deliver on the artistic vision. This inconsistency has led to some critiques regarding the overall polish of the graphics, which could detract from the immersive experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that South of Midnight boasts an impressive and visually striking presentation that successfully utilizes a unique stop-motion style to enhance its narrative and thematic elements. The majority of reviewers, including GameSpot and Windows Central, found the visuals to be a major highlight, contributing to the game's charm and appeal. While there are noted technical shortcomings, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics considering it one of the best-looking games of the year. The combination of a captivating art style and detailed environments has left a lasting impression, solidifying South of Midnight as a visually engaging experience in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

South of Midnight's sound design and music, praised for their masterful blend of Southern styles like blues and gospel, are a vital narrative force that enhances emotional depth and player engagement. Critics hail composer Olivier Deriviere’s work as award-worthy, despite minor critiques about dialogue clarity and sound issues. Overall, the soundtrack is celebrated as a standout feature that beautifully captures the game's essence and elevates the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

97%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of South of Midnight have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising its masterful integration of Southern musical styles such as blues, folk, and gospel. Atomix highlights the standout nature of the music, noting how it enhances the narrative, while CGMagazine emphasizes its role in reinforcing emotional moments and themes. Critics like ComicBook and GRYOnline.pl laud the composition by Olivier Deriviere, describing it as exceptional and a potential contender for awards. The soundtrack is noted for its diversity, with character-driven music that enhances the atmosphere, particularly during pivotal moments like boss fights, as pointed out by Checkpoint Gaming. Overall, the music is seen as a crucial narrative element that deepens player engagement, with many reviewers, including IGN and GamingTrend, noting how it evolves with the gameplay to enhance emotional depth. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few criticisms have emerged regarding the sound design. Multiplayer.it mentions that while the blues soundtrack enhances storytelling, some dialogue may be difficult to understand due to accents, which could detract from the overall experience. Player 2 also points out a minor drawback regarding the lack of subtitled lyrics, which could help players fully appreciate the emotional weight of the songs. Additionally, Stevivor notes issues with sound clipping during gameplay, which could disrupt immersion. These criticisms, while valid, appear to be overshadowed by the overall quality of the sound design and music. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of South of Midnight are exceptional, significantly contributing to the game's atmosphere and narrative depth. The majority of reviewers, including those from TechRadar Gaming and XboxEra, agree that the soundtrack not only enhances the emotional experience but also captures the essence of Southern music styles beautifully. Overall, the game is celebrated for its immersive audio experience, with critics unanimously recognizing it as one of the standout features of the title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the voice acting in "South of Midnight," particularly Adriyan Rae's standout performance as Hazel, which adds emotional depth and authenticity to the narrative. While the regional accents enhance immersion, some players may struggle with comprehension, and the lack of Spanish dubbing limits accessibility. Overall, the voice performances significantly elevate the game, despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

78%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

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

The voice acting in "South of Midnight" has received widespread acclaim from critics, who highlight the strong performances of the cast, particularly Adriyan Rae as the protagonist Hazel. Reviewers from Atomix and ComicBook emphasize Rae's compelling portrayal, noting how her performance adds depth to the character and enhances the overall narrative. Many critics, including those from But Why Tho? and Daily Star, agree that the voice acting is commendable and contributes significantly to the emotional weight of the story. The regional accents, as noted by Atomix and IGN, further enrich the immersive quality of the game, making character interactions feel authentic and relatable. Overall, the voice performances are characterized as heartwarming and engaging, effectively bringing the characters to life and elevating the gaming experience. While the majority of reviews praise the voice acting, some critics point out potential drawbacks. For instance, MondoXbox and Multiplayer.it mention that the strong southern accents might pose comprehension challenges for some players, particularly those unfamiliar with the dialect. Additionally, Hobby Consolas notes the lack of Spanish dubbing, which could limit accessibility for non-English speaking audiences. Although these concerns are relatively minor compared to the overall positive reception, they do indicate that the voice acting's regional specificity might not resonate with all players. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in "South of Midnight." The performances, especially by Adriyan Rae, are consistently highlighted for their emotional depth and authenticity, contributing significantly to the game's narrative and immersive experience. Critics from outlets like TechRadar Gaming and Windows Central reinforce this sentiment, praising the cast's ability to bring the story to life through their performances. Despite some minor criticisms regarding accent comprehension and localization, the overall sentiment is that the voice acting is a standout feature of the game, enhancing its appeal and emotional resonance.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

South of Midnight shines on Xbox Series X with smooth 4K and 60 FPS performance, earning praise for stability and accessibility. However, it suffers from notable issues like frame rate drops, sound glitches, and hitbox bugs that can mar the experience. Critics agree it needs updates for a truly polished experience, with room for improvement in combat mechanics and animations. Overall, a solid but imperfect title that still feels like a work in progress.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The technical performance of South of Midnight on the Xbox Series X has garnered a predominantly positive reception among critics. Many reviewers, such as Daily Star and IGN Spain, praised the game for running smoothly at 4K and 60 FPS, indicating a strong technical foundation. Critics like Windows Central and Pure Xbox echoed this sentiment, noting the game's stability and minimal performance drops. Overall, the game is recognized for its decent accessibility options, as highlighted by GameSpot and Games.cz, which enhance the experience for a broader audience. Additionally, the general consensus among several critics, including GRYOnline.pl and SomosXbox, is that the game performs well on the Xbox Series X, with few significant technical issues reported. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out, particularly concerning performance issues that some players may encounter. Atomix and Stevivor highlighted technical problems such as frame rate drops and sound clipping, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like XGN and GamingBolt mentioned issues with stuttering during rapid gameplay, particularly due to the game's stop-motion animation style. Furthermore, IGN Brasil raised concerns about hitbox problems and bugs that reset magical abilities, which can significantly impact gameplay. These issues contribute to a mixed experience, especially for those sensitive to motion sickness or expecting a flawless technical performance. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while South of Midnight boasts a solid technical performance on the Xbox Series X, it is not without its flaws. The game generally runs well, with many reviewers praising its smooth frame rates and visual quality. However, the presence of minor technical glitches, frame rate issues, and other bugs suggests that the game may require further updates to enhance its performance fully. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal and MondoXbox have noted that while the game is polished, there are still areas that need improvement, particularly regarding combat mechanics and certain animations. Thus, while the game is enjoyable and technically sound for the most part, it remains a work in progress, with potential for refinement in future patches.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

South of Midnight offers some enticing elements for replayability, like collectibles and a thought-provoking narrative, which critics believe could draw players back. However, many reviewers also highlight its linear structure, repetitive gameplay, and lack of depth—coupled with the absence of a New Game+ mode—that limit its overall replay value. In summary, while there are hooks to revisit the game, its design primarily encourages a one-time playthrough, leaving many players feeling like their experience is finite.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

83%

Negative (0-49)

10%

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of South of Midnight reveal some positive aspects that may entice players to revisit the game. Several reviewers, such as Daily Star and MondoXbox, highlight the presence of collectibles and the option to revisit completed chapters, suggesting that these elements can provide some incentive for players to return. Additionally, GamesHub notes that the thought-provoking narrative may encourage players to reflect on their experience after completion, potentially leading to a desire for a second playthrough. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Loot Level Chill also mention the focus on exploration and diverse characters, which can enhance the overall experience and keep players engaged. On the flip side, a significant number of critics express concerns regarding the limitations of replay value in South of Midnight. Atomix and IGN Brasil point out that the game features a linear structure with a repetitive gameplay loop, which may deter players from wanting to replay it. Critics such as Gameliner and MGG emphasize the lack of depth and variety in gameplay, further contributing to the sentiment that replayability is limited. The absence of a New Game+ mode, as noted by Impulsegamer, also indicates that the game does not offer robust incentives for multiple playthroughs, which could leave players feeling that their experience is finite. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while South of Midnight possesses some elements that could encourage replayability—such as collectibles and a compelling narrative—the game is primarily designed for a linear experience that may limit its appeal for repeated playthroughs. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer Portugal and Hobby Consolas, agree that the game's structure and gameplay mechanics do not provide sufficient motivation for players to dive back in after completing the main story. As a result, while there are aspects that could draw players back, the prevailing sentiment is that the game's replay value is ultimately constrained.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

57%

Mixed (50-79)

43%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "South of Midnight" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its strong narrative, stunning visuals, and unique atmosphere. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and GameSpot highlight the game's rich storytelling and artistic design, describing it as a love letter to the Southern Gothic aesthetic. The game’s captivating world and emotional depth are frequently mentioned, with critics such as Gameliner and GamingTrend emphasizing its masterful storytelling and innovative use of music. Several reviews, including those from Xbox Tavern and Impulsegamer, commend the game for its charm and personality, making it a standout title in the action-adventure genre. However, despite the acclaim, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay. Many reviewers, including Atomix and CGMagazine, point out that while the narrative and visuals shine, the gameplay lacks ambition and depth, often becoming repetitive. Critics like GRYOnline.pl and Jeuxvideo.com mention pacing issues and a generic gameplay loop that detracts from the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by several others who feel that the game, while engaging, could benefit from more variety and innovation in its mechanics, as noted by Shacknews and GAMES.CH. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "South of Midnight" is a compelling and memorable experience, particularly for fans of narrative-driven games. While the gameplay may not reach the same heights as its storytelling and visuals, the game is still highly recommended, especially for Xbox Game Pass subscribers. Critics like Daily Star and XboxEra have even dubbed it one of the best games of the year, suggesting that its strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. The combination of a heartfelt narrative and artistic flair has left a lasting impression on many, making it a noteworthy title in the current gaming landscape.

TL;DR

"South of Midnight" earns high praise for its rich narrative, stunning visuals, and Southern Gothic charm, making it a standout in action-adventure gaming. Critics celebrate its storytelling and emotional depth, but gameplay criticism highlights a lack of ambition and repetitive mechanics. Despite this, it's highly recommended, especially for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, with many calling it one of the year's best due to its compelling narrative and artistic flair.

MONSTER

Reviews

162 reviews found

100

Daily Star

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is praised as a video gaming gem of the year, combining stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a deep emotional story.

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100

GamesHub

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is described as an incredible experience that successfully combines deeper themes with a compelling narrative, earning a five-star rating.

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GamingTrend

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is praised for its masterful storytelling, unique visual style, and innovative use of music, making it a standout title.

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Player 2

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is a beautifully crafted game with a soulful narrative and stunning visuals, despite some shortcomings in combat. It stands out for its unique storytelling and artistic design.

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IGN Spain

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is hailed as a potential classic, combining captivating storytelling, impressive visuals, and addictive gameplay, making it a highly recommended title.

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Games.cz

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is a visually stunning and emotionally engaging adventure that stands out with its unique gameplay and rich narrative, offering a deeper experience than typical action-adventure games.

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But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is a beautifully crafted game that serves as a love letter to the South, combining rich storytelling, stunning visuals, and a haunting soundtrack. Despite some repetitive gameplay, it stands out as a significant narrative experience.

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Impulsegamer

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is a powerful and charming adventure that combines a thoughtful narrative with beautiful visuals and engaging gameplay, making it a must-play.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

South of Midnight is a delightful fantasy adventure that excels in storytelling, character development, and visual design, despite some repetitive elements in gameplay. It is highly recommended as one of the best games of the year.

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IGN Deutschland

Xbox Series X

Apr 3, 2025

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

Overall, South of Midnight is praised for its magical charm and engaging storytelling, making it a captivating experience despite its classic gameplay mechanics.

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