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Starlink: Battle for Atlas

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Starlink: Battle for Atlas
Item: Starlink: Battle for Atlas
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2018

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, Simulation, RPG, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 16, 2018

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

DeveloperUbisoft Toronto

Overview

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is an all-new action-adventure game developed by Ubisoft Toronto. This deep, open-world space saga features Smart Building Technology empowering players to assemble and customize real-world physical starships. Each part attached to the starship appears instantly in-game and players can experiment with different pilot abilities, weapon types, and status effects and unleash devastating combos upon their enemies.

Elsewhere

7.7

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas garners mixed reviews on its story, with some critics praising its charming, light-hearted narrative that appeals to younger audiences. However, many find it clichéd, predictable, and shallow, lacking depth and emotional engagement. Overall, while the game entertains, its narrative is seen as a missed opportunity that fails to elevate the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the story of Starlink: Battle for Atlas reveal a mix of positive sentiments, particularly around the game's charm and appeal to younger audiences. Some reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded, highlight the story's "fun little" narrative, characterized by a "charming and innocent tone" and a sense of humor that adds personality to the experience. Hobby Consolas also praises the game for its well-managed space opera narrative, emphasizing the unity of diverse pilots against an evil empire. Additionally, Worth Playing notes the engaging aspects of the plot, particularly the inclusion of the Star Fox team, which adds a special touch for fans of the franchise. Overall, there is a recognition that while the story may not be groundbreaking, it effectively supports the gameplay experience and is enjoyable for a younger demographic. Conversely, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the story, labeling it as clichéd, predictable, and lacking depth. Generación Xbox describes the narrative as weak and feeling more like a sequel than an original title, while InsideGamer.nl criticizes it for its lack of excitement and reliance on science fiction tropes. Similarly, GameCritics points out the generic characters and a confusing plot that lacks context, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like GameSpot and New Game Network echo these sentiments, describing the story as shallow and aimed at a younger audience, with an unsatisfying antagonist and a lack of significant twists or emotional engagement. The overall consensus among critics leans towards a recognition of the story’s shortcomings, with many agreeing that it fails to deliver a compelling narrative. While some reviewers appreciate the light-hearted and cartoonish elements, as noted by TheSixthAxis and We Got This Covered, the majority highlight the narrative's predictability and simplicity. Critics like Nintendo Life and Gameplanet mention that while the characters are likable, they remain one-dimensional, leading to a superficial narrative experience. In summary, while Starlink: Battle for Atlas offers an engaging experience for younger players, the story is largely viewed as a missed opportunity, lacking the depth and complexity that could have elevated the game beyond its current status.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas impresses with thrilling space combat and deep ship customization, delivering a fun and engaging experience. Critics laud its exploration and strategic gameplay, but many also flag repetitive missions and clunky mechanics as significant drawbacks. While the game shines in combat and personalization, its monotonous tasks and some frustrating elements may limit long-term enjoyment. Overall, it’s a solid but mixed experience that balances enjoyment with some notable flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Starlink: Battle for Atlas has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several engaging aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and The Escapist, praise the enjoyable space combat and the depth of customization available for ships and pilots. The game features a Variety of gameplay elements, including exploration, dogfighting, and resource management, which keep the experience fresh and engaging. Critics like Switch Player and Gaming Age note the fun and frantic nature of the gameplay, emphasizing the intuitive controls and the satisfaction derived from strategic combat and ship modifications. The RPG elements, such as leveling up pilots and customizing ships, further enhance the gameplay experience, offering players a sense of progression and personalization. However, despite the positive aspects, a significant number of reviewers express concerns regarding the repetitive nature of the gameplay. Critics like Everyeye.it and InsideGamer.nl highlight that while the open universe structure allows for tackling challenges in any order, many missions can feel monotonous over time. The grind associated with repetitive tasks across planets is a common theme, as noted by CGMagazine and Destructoid, who mention that the lack of Variety in missions can lead to a sense of tedium. Additionally, Slant Magazine points out that clunky mechanics related to the physical toys can detract from the overall experience, further complicating the enjoyment of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Starlink: Battle for Atlas offers a solid and enjoyable gameplay experience, marked by engaging combat and extensive customization options. However, the repetitive mission design and some frustrating mechanics pose challenges that may hinder long-term enjoyment. While critics like GameSpot and Easy Allies acknowledge the fun and engaging combat system, they also caution that the game's repetitive nature could detract from its overall appeal. Ultimately, Starlink: Battle for Atlas presents a mixed bag, with a strong foundation of enjoyable gameplay that is occasionally undermined by repetitive elements.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas boasts vibrant graphics and an imaginative cartoonish style that critics praise for its colorful aesthetics and immersive cut-scenes, especially on the Nintendo Switch. However, many reviewers highlight significant technical flaws, such as empty worlds, low resolution, and detail issues that diminish the experience, particularly in handheld mode. While visually appealing, the game struggles with inconsistencies and underutilizes the Switch's capabilities, falling short of being truly groundbreaking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Starlink: Battle for Atlas have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Many reviewers noted the game's cartoonish style, which allows for creative designs and distinct planetary environments. For instance, Game Informer highlighted the colorful weapon effects that enhance the alien landscapes, while Nintendo Enthusiast appreciated the solid visuals that contribute to the game's creative designs. Critics like Impulsegamer and Gameblog.fr emphasized the high-quality cut-scenes and well-executed animations, creating a visually immersive experience. Additionally, some critics, such as TheSixthAxis and God is a Geek, found the planets beautifully presented, showcasing impressive color representation and attention to detail, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's visual execution. Wccftech described the worlds as feeling empty and unimaginative, while GameSpot noted that the planets lack detail, especially in handheld mode on the Switch, where pop-in issues were prevalent. LevelUp echoed this sentiment, mentioning short draw distances and repetitive enemy designs. Critics like FNintendo and Trusted Reviews also highlighted the low resolution and rough textures on the Switch version, indicating that while the game looks good, it does not fully utilize the capabilities of the hardware. Furthermore, the overall design was criticized for feeling barren and lacking unique points of interest, as noted by Destructoid. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Starlink: Battle for Atlas features a visually appealing and vibrant aesthetic, it is marred by technical limitations, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Metro GameCentral, acknowledged the game's impressive performance and solid frame rates, yet also pointed out that it lacks some details compared to other platforms like the PS4 and Xbox One. Critics like Press Start Australia and The Sydney Morning Herald recognized the Switch version as still impressive given its nature but noted the significant visual differences when compared to more powerful consoles. Ultimately, the game presents a colorful and engaging visual experience, but it also suffers from inconsistencies and technical drawbacks that prevent it from being truly groundbreaking.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas impresses with strong sound design and a nostalgic soundtrack that enhances gameplay, especially for Star Fox fans. Critics praise the immersive audio cues and quality voice acting, but some note music’s lack of memorable themes and inconsistencies in voice performances. While the sound enriches the experience, it falls short of perfection, leaving room for improvement in distinctiveness and clarity. Overall, solid but not flawless.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Starlink: Battle for Atlas have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the overall gaming experience. Reviewers such as Atomix and LaPS4 praised the sound design for its well-executed audio cues and immersive effects that elevate the feeling of flight and combat. The inclusion of nostalgic tracks, particularly the Corneria theme from Star Fox, was celebrated by critics like GameSpot and Gameplanet, who noted how these remixes added a layer of charm and familiarity for fans. Additionally, the voice acting received commendations for its quality and humor, with GamePro Germany and FANDOM noting how character dialogues contribute to the game's personality and engagement. However, not all feedback was entirely positive, as some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. For instance, Meristation mentioned that while the sound effects were well-executed, the music lacked a lasting impression and distinctive themes for different planets. Additionally, some reviewers, including God is a Geek and FNintendo, highlighted inconsistencies in voice acting quality, which detracted from immersion. There were also comments about the UI cluttering the screen, as noted by New Game Network, which affected the clarity of the audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Starlink: Battle for Atlas features solid sound design and a nostalgic soundtrack that enhances gameplay, particularly for fans of the Star Fox franchise. While the music and voice acting have their strengths, there are areas for improvement, particularly in terms of consistency and memorability. Critics like Nintendo Life and Vandal encapsulated this sentiment well, acknowledging the effective sound design and varied music while also recognizing that some aspects could be more impactful. Ultimately, the game's audio elements contribute positively to the overall experience, even if they do not reach the heights of perfection.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas boasts engaging voice acting that enhances character charm and immersion, with standout performances from main pilots. Critics praise the humor and nostalgia, especially in the Switch version. However, inconsistencies plague secondary characters, with some delivering poor or repetitive lines that detract from the experience. Overall, while the voice acting enriches the game, it falls short of uniform excellence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Starlink: Battle for Atlas has received a mix of positive feedback from various critics. Many reviewers praised the distinct personalities and humor of the characters, contributing to the game's charm and overall immersion. For instance, GamePro Germany highlighted the well-executed voice acting, noting that characters resonate well with players. Similarly, IGN and Digital Chumps emphasized that each pilot has unique dialogue, which adds depth to the gameplay experience. The inclusion of recognizable voices, particularly in the Nintendo Switch version with Fox McCloud, was also noted as enhancing the nostalgic feel of the game, as mentioned by Variety and Cubed3. Overall, critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and EGM commended the voice acting for enriching the characters and story, enhancing player engagement. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that suggest inconsistency in quality. Several reviewers pointed out that while main characters often have well-crafted dialogue, secondary characters suffer from less impressive performances. Jeuxvideo.com and God is a Geek both noted this inconsistency, with some characters delivering lines poorly, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, critics like COGconnected and InsideGamer.nl expressed frustration over repetitive and stale dialogue, particularly from NPCs, which can lead to annoyance during gameplay. Atomix also mentioned that some characters felt unnecessary, and PlayStation Universe criticized one character's dialogue as particularly annoying, indicating that not all voice performances hit the mark. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Starlink: Battle for Atlas features solid voice acting that enhances character personality and engagement, it is marred by inconsistencies, especially among secondary characters. Many reviewers appreciated the charm and humor brought by the main cast, as seen in the opinions of GameSpot and XboxAddict, but acknowledged that certain performances fell flat. The varying experiences across platforms, particularly between the PS4 and Nintendo Switch versions, further highlight the mixed reception. Ultimately, while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's atmosphere, it does not consistently reach the heights of excellence that some players might hope for.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas impresses with smooth gameplay across all platforms, earning praise for technical performance, especially on PS4 and Xbox One. Critics commend seamless transitions and stability, while the Switch version, despite some texture and resolution issues, still provides an enjoyable experience. However, frame rate drops on Xbox during intense scenes and minor UI quirks on PS4 are noted drawbacks. Overall, it’s a solid title that balances performance and engaging gameplay, making it worthwhile for gamers on any system.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Starlink: Battle for Atlas has garnered generally positive feedback across all platforms, with critics praising the smooth gameplay experience. On the PlayStation 4, reviewers such as Atomix and PlaySense highlight the game's stability, noting that it runs without significant bugs or interruptions. Similarly, on Xbox One, critics like BaziCenter and Generación Xbox commend the game for its seamless transitions between space and planetary environments, emphasizing the technical prowess of the development team. The Nintendo Switch version also receives accolades for its performance, with multiple reviewers, including Areajugones and Destructoid, noting the lack of major technical issues and the smooth transitions between environments, which contribute to an immersive experience. However, the technical performance is not without its drawbacks. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including Everyeye.it and LevelUp, point out notable issues such as inconsistent texture quality and environmental pop-up, which can detract from the overall experience. The handheld mode also presents challenges, with FNintendo mentioning low resolution and blurriness. For the Xbox One, while the performance is generally praised, Windows Central notes that the game struggles with frame rate drops during intense scenes, particularly when many enemies or explosions are present. On the PS4, while most critics report a smooth experience, some, like New Game Network, mention UI issues that can detract from gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Starlink: Battle for Atlas performs well across all platforms, with each version showcasing its strengths and weaknesses. The PS4 and Xbox One versions are highlighted for their technical stability and smooth gameplay, while the Switch version is recognized for its unique features despite some graphical compromises. Critics like GameSpot and Nintendo Life acknowledge that while the Switch may have minor performance hiccups, it still delivers an enjoyable experience. The game successfully balances technical performance with engaging gameplay across platforms, making it a solid title for players regardless of their chosen system.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas boasts enjoyable exploration, customization, and a decent 15-20 hour campaign, sparking some replay interest. However, critics overwhelmingly warn that its repetitive missions and limited variety undermine long-term engagement, leading to a cautious view of its replay value. Players may enjoy the mechanics, but the lack of diversity could keep them from returning.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions regarding the replay value of Starlink: Battle for Atlas, several critics highlighted positive aspects that contribute to its longevity. Many reviewers appreciated the game's exploration opportunities and the Variety of missions available. For instance, Nintendo World Report noted that the game encourages players to reclaim every planet in Atlas, which adds to the overall replayability. Additionally, Easy Allies mentioned that the game offers a satisfying 15-20 hours of story gameplay, with extra content for completionists, making it engaging without overstaying its welcome. Critics also pointed out that the customization options, the ability to build and level up ships, and local multiplayer features enhance the overall enjoyment, as noted by GameCrate and Hobby Consolas. However, a significant number of reviewers expressed concerns regarding the game's replay value due to its repetitive nature. Critics such as Slant Magazine and Game Revolution emphasized that the game suffers from a lack of mission Variety, making the gameplay feel more like a chore than an enjoyable experience. Metro GameCentral echoed this sentiment, stating that the repetition in missions and enemies diminishes replay value, despite some potential for enjoyment. Furthermore, Forbes pointed out the absence of a New Game + mode and additional missions, which could have further enhanced replayability. Overall, the repetitive mission structure and limited incentives for continued play after completing the main story were common themes in the critiques. The overall consensus among critics leans towards a cautious view of Starlink: Battle for Atlas's replay value. While there are elements that encourage players to return, such as exploration and customization options, the repetitive nature of missions and tasks significantly detracts from long-term engagement. Critics like DualShockers and New Game Network highlighted that although the game offers a Variety of missions and character progression systems, the repetitive gameplay ultimately limits its replayability. In summary, while Starlink: Battle for Atlas provides enjoyable mechanics and opportunities for exploration, the overarching sentiment suggests that its replay value is hindered by a lack of diversity in mission design and a sense of repetitiveness that may deter players from returning for extended play.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the overall sentiment regarding Starlink: Battle for Atlas, it is evident that many critics appreciate the game's engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and the unique toys-to-life integration. Reviewers like Trusted Reviews and Game Informer highlight the game's enjoyable combat mechanics and the beautiful worlds it offers, suggesting that it provides a captivating experience for both younger audiences and seasoned players. Additionally, critics such as GameSpew and Hardcore Gamer praise the game for its depth and customization options, indicating that it successfully revitalizes the toys-to-life genre while delivering a fun open-world space adventure. The game's accessibility and charm are also noted by Eurogamer Italy and Digital Chumps, who emphasize its appeal to a broad range of players. However, despite the positives, a significant number of critics point out the game's shortcomings, particularly regarding repetitiveness and narrative depth. Gamer.nl and Wccftech mention the repetitive nature of gameplay and the lack of a compelling story, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like Slant Magazine and Metro GameCentral echo these sentiments, emphasizing that the game suffers from clunky mechanics and a lack of creativity, which can lead to a disappointing experience. Additionally, the toys-to-life component is often seen as a double-edged sword, with some reviewers, such as Stevivor and GameSpot, suggesting that it may limit the experience for some players due to its high cost and reliance on physical accessories. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a fun and visually appealing game with engaging gameplay, but it is hampered by repetitive elements and a lack of depth in its story and characters. While some reviewers, like Gaming Age and Xbox Tavern, highlight its potential and recommend it for its enjoyable gameplay, many others caution that it may not satisfy all players, especially those seeking a more profound narrative experience. The mixed reviews indicate that while Starlink has its merits, it ultimately falls short of being a revolutionary title, making it a decent, albeit flawed, addition to the toys-to-life genre.

TL;DR

Starlink: Battle for Atlas impresses with its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and innovative toys-to-life integration, appealing to both kids and seasoned gamers. However, critics highlight repetitive gameplay and shallow narrative as major drawbacks, with some arguing that the toys-to-life aspect may hinder the experience due to costs. While it offers fun exploration and customization, it ultimately falls short of being groundbreaking, making it a decent but flawed entry in the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

142 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Nintendo Switch

Oct 15, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is highly recommended for its engaging gameplay, impressive visuals, and the enjoyable integration of Star Fox, making it a standout title.

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Impulsegamer

Nintendo Switch

Oct 18, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a friggin good game with relatively flawless mechanics. It trumps similar games in terms of fun and offers a satisfying gaming experience.

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Hardcore Gamer

Nintendo Switch

Oct 16, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is the best integration of toys-to-life so far, offering an enjoyable open-world space adventure with challenge and fun for players of any age.

Forbes

Xbox One

Nov 1, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a fun and engaging experience that successfully combines RPG elements with toys-to-life mechanics, despite some minor drawbacks.

Areajugones

Nintendo Switch

Oct 15, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is an entertaining exploration and adventure game with a solid foundation, appealing to both casual players and collectors of interactive toys.

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Gaming Nexus

Nintendo Switch

Oct 26, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a fun and engaging game that serves as a promising start to a new franchise, with beautiful graphics and a solid toys-to-life component, despite some repetitive gameplay.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Oct 15, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a solid entry in the genre, especially on Switch, with enjoyable gameplay and integration of Star Fox content, despite some repetitive elements.

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COGconnected

Nintendo Switch

Oct 22, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a fast-paced and gorgeous space adventure with intuitive controls, challenging combat, and satisfying tactile response. However, it is marred by repetitive dialogue and enemies, as well as occasional flat textures.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Oct 20, 2018

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

Overall, Starlink: Battle for Atlas is seen as a refreshing and entertaining game that prioritizes gameplay over narrative depth, appealing to fans of space adventures.

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Digital Chumps

PlayStation 4

Oct 19, 2018

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

Starlink: Battle for Atlas is a unique and entertaining game with a lot of heart, despite some repetitive gameplay and narrative challenges. It successfully combines toys-to-life elements without forcing players into that model.

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