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MONSTER

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical
Item: Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, RPG, Romance, Visual Novel, Music and Dance, Single Player

AvailableAug 10, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSummerfall Studios

Overview

Murder. Gods. Romance. Band practice? Unravel the mystery of the Last Muse’s death in an interactive roleplaying musical where Greek gods live hidden among us. Use your newfound powers of musical persuasion to choose how this wry and moving saga will unfold. How will the curtain fall?

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical marries Greek mythology with modern storytelling, earning praise for its emotional depth and character-driven narrative. Critics laud its engaging murder mystery and relatable themes of identity and love. However, the game faces backlash for predictability, shallow dialogue choices, and minimal player impact, leaving some feeling unsatisfied by the execution and conclusion. Overall, while it boasts creative potential and a compelling story, its flaws create a divide in critical reception, resulting in a mixed but generally positive outlook.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical showcases a blend of creativity and emotional depth, particularly in its unique integration of Greek mythology with modern themes. Critics like Game Informer and But Why Tho? commend the game for its engaging narrative and fresh take on ancient myths, highlighting the emotional resonance and character-driven storytelling. Reviewers such as GamesRadar+ and GameSpew appreciate the compelling murder mystery at the heart of the story, which is enhanced by strong character development and interactions. The narrative's exploration of themes like identity, love, and self-discovery resonates with players, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and GamesHub, who emphasize the depth and relatability of the protagonist's journey. Conversely, many critics express disappointment with certain aspects of the narrative, particularly regarding its execution and character development. Multiplayer.it and TheSixthAxis criticize the story for being predictable and lacking originality, with dialogue choices that often feel disconnected from the protagonist's actions. Reviewers like New Game Network and IGN point out that player choices have minimal impact on the outcome, leading to a sense of frustration and a lack of meaningful engagement. Additionally, some critics, such as Eurogamer and Gamer.nl, mention that while the story contains intriguing elements, it ultimately falls short of delivering a satisfying conclusion, which detracts from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical offers a promising narrative filled with emotional depth and creative potential, as highlighted by TRG and Digital Spy. However, the game's shortcomings in originality, character development, and the impact of player choices create a divide in the overall reception. While some reviewers celebrate its engaging storytelling and thematic richness, others find it lacking in execution and depth, leading to a mixed but generally positive outlook on the game's narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical blends musical elements with visual novel mechanics, earning praise for player-driven songs and replayability through dialogue choices. However, critics slam its linearity and limited interactivity, describing it as a repetitive experience lacking depth. While it offers a fresh narrative approach, fans seeking complex gameplay may be disappointed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The gameplay of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical has garnered some praise for its unique integration of musical elements with traditional visual novel mechanics. Critics like CGMagazine and Digital Chumps highlight the innovative approach where players can influence songs through their dialogue choices, creating a dynamic experience that enhances narrative engagement. The incorporation of timed choices during musical segments, as noted by PC Gamer and Screen Rant, adds a layer of urgency and excitement to the gameplay, making it feel immersive. Additionally, the ability to shape the protagonist's traits and emotional responses through decision-making, as pointed out by GamesHub and GamesRadar+, offers a level of replayability that some players may find appealing. However, the gameplay has faced significant criticism for its limitations and lack of depth. Many reviewers, including Inverse and Eurogamer, express disappointment over the linearity and minimal interactivity, with gameplay often feeling repetitive and lacking meaningful consequences. Critics like Gamereactor UK and DarkZero emphasize that the game is heavily restricted, resembling a visual novel with little opportunity for exploration or player agency beyond dialogue choices. Furthermore, the perceived redundancy of choices, as highlighted by Gamer.nl and WellPlayed, detracts from the overall experience, leaving players wanting more impactful gameplay mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical offers a fresh take on narrative-driven gameplay with its musical elements, it ultimately falls short in providing a robust interactive experience. The game is often described as a visual novel with limited RPG elements, leading to a lack of engagement for those seeking deeper gameplay mechanics. Critics like Shacknews and Game Informer recognize the potential for replayability through varied dialogue options, yet many agree that the gameplay's simplicity and linearity hinder its overall effectiveness. As a result, Stray Gods may appeal to fans of narrative adventures but may disappoint those looking for a more complex and interactive gaming experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical wows with its vibrant comic book art and captivating character designs, earning praise for its unique aesthetic. However, it stumbles with limited animation and inconsistent visual quality, especially on the Nintendo Switch. Critics love the artistic direction but lament the lack of dynamism, leaving the visuals feeling static and underwhelming for a musical experience. In short, striking visuals that needed more life.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions on the graphics and visual design of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical highlight several positive aspects that many critics appreciate. A notable consensus is the game's distinctive comic book art style, which has been praised for its vibrant colors and expressive character designs. Critics such as IGN and PC Gamer commend the hand-drawn visuals, noting that they enhance the overall experience and storytelling. WellPlayed and GameGrin also highlight the striking art direction, with some reviewers like TRG emphasizing the creative blend of modern aesthetics with Grecian history. Additionally, the character designs are frequently described as appealing and well-crafted, contributing to the immersive atmosphere of the game. However, the reviews also reveal significant criticisms regarding the visual presentation. Many critics point out the limitations of animation, which detracts from the overall experience, particularly during musical numbers. For instance, GamingTrend notes that while the still images are colorful and detailed, the lack of full animation can be a drawback. Critics like New Game Network and Press Start Australia mention that the backgrounds lack detail and that the UI can appear drab, which diminishes the visual impact. Furthermore, the performance across different platforms has been inconsistent, with the Nintendo Switch version receiving particular criticism for its blurry and jagged visuals, as highlighted by Vooks and TouchArcade. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical boasts a unique and visually appealing art style, it suffers from significant shortcomings in animation and visual consistency. The game is praised for its artistic direction and character design, but the static nature of many scenes and the varying quality across platforms hinder its potential. Critics like GameSpot and Eurogamer encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the game's artistic merits while also expressing disappointment in the lack of dynamism that one might expect from a musical experience. Thus, while the visuals have a strong foundation, they ultimately fall short of delivering a fully engaging experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical offers a unique blend of player choice and diverse musical styles, praised by some critics for emotional depth and strong voice performances from talents like Laura Bailey and Troy Baker. However, many others criticize the soundtrack’s quality, noting poor song mixing, disjointedness, and a lack of memorable impact. While there’s potential for a compelling musical experience, execution issues leave it falling short for many players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical have garnered a mixed response from critics, with a notable emphasis on the game's innovative approach to integrating player choices into musical performances. Critics such as IGN Japan and GameSpot highlight the dynamic range of musical styles and the emotional weight that the soundtrack brings to the narrative. The involvement of talented composers like Austin Wintory, alongside a strong cast of voice actors including Laura Bailey and Troy Baker, has been praised by several reviewers, including RPG Fan and CNET, who commend the voice performances as a standout feature. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming and Games.cz note that the interactive nature of the songs enhances player engagement and contributes positively to the overall experience. On the flip side, numerous critics have pointed out significant flaws in the music and sound design. TheSixthAxis and Gamer.no express disappointment in the quality of the songs, describing them as poor and at times unlistenable, with issues in mixing and arrangement overshadowing the vocal performances. Critics like New Game Network and WellPlayed echo these sentiments, noting that the musical elements feel disjointed and lack cohesion, which disrupts the narrative flow. Furthermore, PC Gamer and Destructoid mention that while some songs show promise, many do not leave a memorable impact, leading to a sense of inconsistency throughout the soundtrack. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divide in opinion regarding the music and sound design of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical. While some reviewers celebrate the innovative integration of player choice and the emotional depth of certain songs, others criticize the overall execution, citing issues with cohesion, mixing, and the quality of the compositions. Critics like Digital Spy and Hardcore Gamer recognize the potential of the musical elements but agree that the execution falls short of expectations, resulting in a soundtrack that, while ambitious, often fails to resonate with players. This dichotomy suggests that while Stray Gods has the foundation for a compelling musical experience, its realization may leave many players wanting more.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical features standout voice acting from a talented cast, including Laura Bailey and Troy Baker, praised for adding emotional depth and enhancing the narrative. While many critics highlight this as a key strength, some voice performances face criticism for inconsistency and technical issues, such as poor audio mixing, which slightly undermine the overall experience. Despite some flaws, the voice acting remains a defining feature of the game, largely contributing to its charm and engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting the exceptional talent of its cast. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and Screen Rant laud the performances of well-known actors like Laura Bailey, Troy Baker, and Ashley Johnson, emphasizing how their contributions add emotional depth and bring characters to life. Critics from GamingTrend and Game Informer also note that the voice acting enhances the overall narrative experience, with standout performances from various cast members elevating the game's charm and engagement. The consensus among many, including TechRadar Gaming and CGMagazine, is that the voice acting is a strong point of the game, showcasing both versatility and emotional resonance. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, such as TheSixthAxis and Gamer.no, point out inconsistencies in the quality of voice acting, particularly criticizing the lead performances for being difficult to listen to or lacking the necessary dynamism. Inverse and Starbit echo these sentiments, suggesting that while the star-studded cast is impressive, some performers struggle with the demands of singing in various styles, leading to a perception of uneven talent. Additionally, issues with audio mixing on certain platforms, as noted by Siliconera and others, detract from the overall experience, indicating that technical flaws may undermine the performances. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting in Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical, with a significant number praising the talented cast and their contributions to the game's emotional narrative. While there are notable criticisms regarding performance consistency and technical execution, the majority of reviews highlight the voice acting as a key strength of the title. Critics like RPG Fan and WellPlayed encapsulate this sentiment, asserting that the performances enhance the storytelling and engage players effectively, making the voice acting a defining feature of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical showcases mixed technical performance across platforms. The PS5 and PC versions receive praise for stability, despite minor audio issues. The Xbox Series X has a patch-responsive team but suffers from user interface and save file problems. The Nintendo Switch struggles significantly with severe glitches and crashes, making it the weakest link. Critics agree that while the game has redeeming qualities, ongoing updates are crucial to improving its technical shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

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

The technical performance of Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Xbox Series X, DualShockers mentioned that initial technical blips were patched, indicating a responsive development team. Similarly, VideoGamer acknowledged that while there were performance issues, they were not major faults, suggesting that the game is playable despite its quirks. On the PlayStation 5, SpazioGames reported a smooth performance without any issues, and IGN Italia noted overall stability despite some audio mixing problems. The PC version also garnered some positive feedback, with critics like IGN and Games.cz stating that the game runs smoothly, with only minor technical issues, and GameGrin highlighting the commitment to improving player experience through patches. However, the negative aspects of the game’s technical performance cannot be overlooked. On the Xbox Series X, Gamer.no and SomosXbox pointed out significant technical issues, including a confusing user interface and save file problems, which detract from the overall experience. Stevivor echoed concerns about interface and audio problems. The PS5 version also faced criticism, particularly regarding fluctuating sound levels and navigation difficulties, as noted by Gamer.nl and God is a Geek. On the Nintendo Switch, the situation appears more dire, with multiple critics, including Siliconera and Vooks, reporting severe glitches, crashes, and poor audio mixing that significantly hinder gameplay. The PC version, while generally performing well, still had its share of issues, with Game Informer and Hardcore Gamer highlighting glitches and audio mixing problems that affected immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical has some redeeming qualities in terms of technical performance, particularly on PS5 and PC, it is marred by a range of issues across all platforms. The Xbox Series X version shows a mixed bag of experiences, with some critics noting improvements post-patch, while others highlight persistent problems. The Nintendo Switch version stands out as the most problematic, suffering from significant technical flaws that detract from the experience. The PS5 and PC versions are generally seen as more stable, but still face criticism for audio and interface issues. Critics like GamePro Germany and IGN have noted that while the game is enjoyable, the technical performance leaves much to be desired, indicating that ongoing updates and patches will be crucial for enhancing the overall player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical" has mixed reviews on replay value. Critics praise its rich character classes, branching paths, and engaging player choices that enhance replayability. However, some argue that the linear story and limited meaningful choices diminish motivation for multiple playthroughs. While many celebrate its interactive nature and varied experiences, others caution that the predictability and gameplay constraints may deter players. Overall, it’s a compelling experience, but its replay value isn't universally appealing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The opinions on the replay value of "Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical" are notably diverse, with many critics highlighting its strengths in providing a rich and engaging experience. Critics such as DualShockers and COGconnected emphasize the high replayability due to the game's character classes, branching paths, and player-driven choices that shape the narrative and emotional direction of the songs. Reviews from GamesHub and PlayStation LifeStyle echo this sentiment, noting that the multitude of dialogue options and romantic pursuits encourage players to revisit the game for different experiences. Additionally, the interactive nature of the musical numbers, as pointed out by critics like Screen Rant and Shacknews, adds layers of uniqueness to each playthrough, making it appealing for players who enjoy exploring various outcomes. On the other hand, several critics express concerns regarding the limitations of replayability. Gamer.no and New Game Network argue that the linear nature of the story and the lack of meaningful choices can diminish the incentive to replay the game, suggesting that while there are different musical outcomes, the core narrative remains largely unchanged. Critics like Eurogamer and IGN Italia also note that the fundamental story's predictability may lead to a lack of motivation for repeated playthroughs. Additionally, some reviewers, such as RPGamer and TechRadar Gaming, point out that the automatic save system and the inability to skip songs could hinder the replay experience, making it laborious for players to explore alternative paths. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a significant divide in opinions regarding the game's replay value. While many reviewers celebrate the branching narratives and character interactions that allow for varied experiences, others caution that the linear story and limited impact of choices could deter players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Critics like Digital Chumps and GamePro Germany highlight the potential for replayability, but this is countered by concerns from critics like Gamer.nl and New Game Network about the overall appeal of revisiting the game. Thus, while "Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical" offers a compelling experience for some, its replay value may not resonate equally with all players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical reveals a blend of appreciation for its ambitious concept and narrative depth, alongside criticism of its execution. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Screen Rant, praised the game for its engaging storytelling, unique integration of musical elements, and strong voice acting. Critics like Digital Spy and GameSpot highlighted the innovative blend of genres, noting that the game presents a refreshing take on interactive storytelling. The artistic visuals and character development were also commended, with some reviewers, such as CGMagazine, emphasizing the emotional resonance achieved through its narrative. However, a significant number of critics pointed out notable flaws that detracted from the overall experience. Reviewers like Gamer.no and TheSixthAxis described the gameplay as tedious and the music as lackluster, indicating that the game often fell short of its lofty ambitions. Many critics echoed concerns about technical issues, particularly on certain platforms, and a lack of meaningful player choices, which left the narrative feeling less impactful. Eurogamer and Player 2 articulated that while the game had potential, it ultimately failed to deliver a cohesive and immersive experience, leading to a mixed reception. The consensus among critics is that while Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical presents an intriguing concept and offers moments of brilliance, it struggles with execution and consistency. Reviewers like WellPlayed and Gamereactor UK noted that the game is a mixed bag, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. Some critics, such as GamingTrend and TouchArcade, acknowledged its potential to pave the way for future innovations in gaming, but many also advised caution due to its execution flaws. Overall, the game seems to resonate well with fans of narrative-driven experiences and musicals, but its shortcomings may limit its appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical impresses with its ambitious storytelling and musical integration, earning praise for strong voice acting and emotional depth. However, critics warn of tedious gameplay, lackluster music, technical issues, and limited player choices that undermine its potential. While it offers intriguing moments, the execution falters, leading to a mixed reception. Fans of narrative-driven games may enjoy it, but broader appeal is hampered by its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

92 reviews found

100

GamesHub

PlayStation 5

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is an enchanting and emotionally affecting journey that successfully blends narrative depth with musical elements, earning a high recommendation.

GameGrin

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a unique and excellent title that excels in narrative and musical elements, making it a must-play for fans of theatre and story-rich games.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods is a well-crafted experience that successfully merges musical elements with roleplaying, offering a unique and enjoyable journey that resonates emotionally.

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DualShockers

Xbox Series X

Aug 9, 2023

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

A revolutionary visual novel without peer.

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RPG Fan

Aug 10, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a phenomenal visual novel and interactive musical, especially for those who love well-crafted VNs with choice-heavy narratives and who also love musicals. Prior knowledge of Greek mythology might enhance the overall enjoyment.

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GameSpot

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods: A Roleplaying Musical is praised as a unique and memorable gaming experience that successfully blends narrative, music, and player choice, making it a standout title in the visual novel genre.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods is a unique blend of visual novel, RPG, and musical that successfully combines humor and drama. Despite some stylistic choices that may not appeal to everyone, it offers a rich and immersive experience.

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Screen Rant

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical presents an engaging story and unique gameplay mechanics that set a new standard for interactive story games. Despite some technical issues, the game's captivating mythology, masterful voice acting, and immense replayability make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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Games.cz

Aug 21, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a unique blend of interactive storytelling and musical elements, offering a rich narrative experience that is enjoyable both solo and with friends.

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KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

Aug 9, 2023

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

Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a unique blend of storytelling and music, with strong voice acting and engaging gameplay, despite some limitations in gameplay diversity.

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