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MONSTER

Strayed Lights

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Strayed Lights
Item: Strayed Lights
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Fighting, Single Player

AvailableApr 25, 2023

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X

DeveloperEmbers

Overview

An atmospheric action adventure combining a wordless experience with cinematic fights based around colors. Restore your light that was torn by shadows and face endearing creatures deformed by their emotions.

Elsewhere

6.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Strayed Lights polarizes critics: its minimalist storytelling captivates some with abstract visuals and emotional themes of self-discovery, while others slam it for lacking clarity and depth. While praised for artistic execution and personal interpretation, many find the narrative confusing and underwhelming, leaving players craving more substance. It's a bold choice that appeals to those who embrace ambiguity but risks alienating fans of structured narratives.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The story of Strayed Lights has garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting its unique approach to storytelling. Many reviewers appreciate the minimalist narrative style, which relies on abstract visuals and environmental cues instead of traditional dialogue. For instance, Digital Spy notes that the straightforward story of a creature of light evolving and searching for shards is conveyed beautifully through animation, while Screen Rant emphasizes that the game crafts a compelling tale entirely through character actions. Critics like KeenGamer and Finger Guns commend the emotional journey and themes of self-discovery and overcoming inner demons, suggesting that the lack of dialogue enhances the game's reflective quality. This artistic choice has resonated with some players, allowing for personal interpretation and emotional engagement, as noted by reviewers from Game Informer and Pure Nintendo. However, the absence of dialogue and explicit narrative context has led to significant criticism regarding the story's clarity and depth. Several reviewers, including CGMagazine and XboxEra, express concerns that the minimalistic approach leaves players confused and disconnected from the game's events. Critics like God is a Geek and Dexerto argue that the lack of substance and context results in a narrative that feels shallow, making it challenging for players to invest in the characters or plot. Others, such as Xbox Tavern and GamingBolt, mention that while the story starts with intrigue, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling experience, leaving players wanting more in terms of narrative depth and character development. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a split reaction to the storytelling in Strayed Lights. While some appreciate the abstract and minimalist approach, celebrating its emotional resonance and artistic execution, others find it lacking in clarity and substance. The game’s reliance on player interpretation has been both praised and criticized, with some reviewers like PlayStation Universe and TouchArcade acknowledging the potential for introspection and personal connection, while others, such as GamingTrend and Impulsegamer, lament the lack of a compelling narrative framework. Ultimately, Strayed Lights presents a bold narrative choice that may resonate with players who appreciate artistic ambiguity, but it may alienate those seeking a more structured and engaging storyline.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Strayed Lights impresses with its unique rhythm-based combat and color-matching mechanics, offering a fresh take that many critics enjoy. However, frustrations arise from inconsistent parrying, repetitive gameplay, and tedious boss fights, leading to a mixed reception. While it has a solid foundation, it needs more enemy variety and refined controls to elevate the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Strayed Lights has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its unique combat mechanics that revolve around parrying and color-matching. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Digital Spy, highlighted the fluidity and addictive nature of the combat system, likening it to a rhythm game where players must read enemy patterns and react accordingly. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and Finger Guns appreciated the challenge and depth offered by the timing and dexterity required in mastering the parry mechanics, with the game rewarding players with skill points to enhance their abilities. The incorporation of a unique color-coded system adds an interesting twist, making the combat feel fresh and engaging, as noted by reviewers like Slant Magazine and Game Informer. However, despite these positive aspects, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A common sentiment among reviewers such as XboxEra and Xbox Tavern is that the combat can become frustrating, particularly due to inconsistencies in the parrying mechanics and the controls. Critics like God is a Geek and GamingBolt noted that the gameplay can feel repetitive over time, primarily due to a lack of enemy variety and the limited challenge posed by standard encounters. Additionally, some reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the pacing of the game, with boss fights being described as excessively long and sometimes tedious, as highlighted by PlayStation Country and Shacknews. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Strayed Lights offers a unique and engaging combat system that is both challenging and rewarding, it suffers from repetitive gameplay and inconsistencies that can hinder enjoyment. Many reviews, such as those from Checkpoint Gaming and Screen Rant, emphasize that the game has a solid foundation but could benefit from greater enemy diversity and refined mechanics to enhance the overall experience. The blend of rhythm and parry-based combat is appreciated, but the repetitive nature and occasional control frustrations leave some players wanting more depth and variety in their encounters.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Strayed Lights wows critics with its stunning graphics and immersive environments, often described as a "living painting." The vibrant colors and dreamlike landscapes earn high praise, though some point out issues like sparse worlds and linear levels that hinder exploration. Overall, its exceptional visuals are a major highlight, making it a captivating experience despite some minor shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Strayed Lights is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its stunning aesthetics and immersive environments. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Digital Spy highlighted the breathtaking visuals and vivid art style, describing the game as a living, breathing painting that invites exploration. Critics like XboxEra and Finger Guns appreciated the bold color palettes and atmospheric visual style, noting how the landscapes are both beautiful and engaging. The game's unique and dreamlike environments were frequently mentioned, with Movies Games and Tech and Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing the well-crafted light and character designs that enhance the overall experience. Despite the general acclaim, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the game's visual presentation. For instance, Gaming Age and Softpedia noted that while the visuals are appealing, the world can feel somewhat empty or sparse, detracting from the overall immersion. GameGrin mentioned that the levels, although beautiful, are linear, which may limit exploration. Additionally, Shacknews pointed out that while the color choices are commendable, close-up details in the environment can appear flat, indicating that there may be room for improvement in the finer aspects of the graphics. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Strayed Lights features exceptional graphics and visual design that contribute significantly to its immersive atmosphere. The majority of reviewers, including Game Informer and PlayStation Universe, praised the game for its striking art style and vibrant colors, which effectively convey emotions and enhance gameplay. While some concerns were raised about environmental emptiness and linearity, the overwhelming sentiment remains that the game's visuals are a standout aspect, making it a visually captivating experience for players across platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music in Strayed Lights, praising Austin Wintory's evocative score for enhancing the game's atmosphere and narrative despite the lack of dialogue. While most reviews highlight its emotional depth and immersive qualities, some note issues with intensity and synchronization during gameplay. Overall, the soundtrack is seen as a strong asset that significantly enriches the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Strayed Lights have garnered significant praise from critics, with the majority highlighting the exceptional work of composer Austin Wintory. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and XboxEra, noted that the musical score enhances the atmosphere of the game, effectively compensating for the absence of dialogue and providing a narrative through its melodies. Critics like Digital Spy and Gaming Nexus emphasized the beauty and emotional depth of the soundtrack, describing it as perfectly timed and capable of creating a relaxing atmosphere. The combination of various musical styles, as mentioned by Movies Games and Tech, contributes to a captivating experience that resonates with players, while others, like Finger Guns, appreciated the ambient and meditative qualities of the score, suggesting it could find a place in listeners' playlists. Despite the overwhelming positivity, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the sound design and music. GamingTrend criticized the soundtrack for feeling too intense at times, particularly in relation to cutscenes and gameplay, indicating a disconnect between the music and on-screen action. Shacknews echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while Wintory's score serves as a strong accompaniment, it lacks the riveting quality of his previous works. Worth Playing also noted moments where the music did not align with the gameplay, hinting at a need for better synchronization. These critiques suggest that while the music is generally well-received, there are instances where it may not fully enhance the gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Strayed Lights are strong assets to the game, with many praising Austin Wintory's evocative compositions. Reviewers across various platforms, from CGMagazine to Pocket Tactics, highlighted the soundtrack's ability to create an immersive atmosphere and enhance emotional engagement. While there are some criticisms regarding intensity and synchronization, the majority sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, affirming that the music significantly contributes to the overall experience of Strayed Lights. This strong appreciation for the audio elements indicates that they play a vital role in the game's narrative and emotional impact, making it a noteworthy aspect of the title.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Strayed Lights shows uneven technical performance across platforms. PS5 delivers a smooth experience, while lower-end PCs fare well. However, PCs and Nintendo Switch struggle with frequent frame drops, stutters, and crashes, raising serious optimization concerns. Despite some patches improving performance, significant issues persist, leading to mixed reviews and potential hurdles for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

20%

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

The technical performance of Strayed Lights varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive experiences noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, PlayStation Country highlighted that the game runs smoothly and is well-paced, indicating a solid performance on this console. Similarly, Worth Playing reported that the game runs smoothly on PC, even on lower-end systems, which suggests that it is accessible to a broader audience. Additionally, TouchArcade noted improvements in the patched version of the game on Nintendo Switch, indicating that some technical issues at launch have been addressed, which could enhance the experience for players on that platform. However, the negatives associated with Strayed Lights' technical performance are quite pronounced, particularly on PC and Nintendo Switch. Critics such as GameGrin and Hey Poor Player pointed out frequent frame drops, stutters, and crashes on PC, raising concerns about the game's optimization. Checkpoint Gaming also noted framerate issues on older systems, further emphasizing the performance struggles on PC. On the Nintendo Switch, Pure Nintendo and Nintendo Life reported significant technical glitches, including long loading times, screen tearing, and frame rate drops, which detract from the overall experience. Pocket Tactics mentioned that while some performance issues exist, a patch is expected to improve stability, suggesting that the game may still be in a state of flux on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while there are some positive aspects to Strayed Lights' technical performance, particularly on PS5 and lower-end PCs, the game suffers from notable issues across most platforms. Critics have expressed concerns about optimization and stability, especially on PC and Nintendo Switch, where crashes and frame rate drops are common. Despite some improvements noted in patches, the technical performance remains a significant hurdle for many players, as highlighted by the mixed reviews from critics like GameGrin and Pure Nintendo. This inconsistency in performance could impact the game's reception and enjoyment for a broader audience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Strayed Lights garners mixed reviews on replay value: some praise its world exploration and unique combat, while many critics slam its shallow skill tree, repetitive gameplay, and lack of post-campaign content. At around eight hours long, the game feels too brief and linear, leaving little incentive for players to return. Ultimately, despite some positives, the consensus is clear—the game's replayability is severely lacking.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Strayed Lights reveal a mix of perspectives, with some critics acknowledging certain positive aspects of the game. For instance, Movies Games and Tech highlights that there is replay value stemming from the exploration of multiple worlds, the quest to soothe siblings, and the collection of items to upgrade abilities. Similarly, Game Informer appreciates the unique combat system and exploration, suggesting that these elements contribute to an enjoyable replay experience. Additionally, Nintendo Life mentions that the game can be completed in around eight hours, which may provide enough content for players seeking an engaging experience. However, a significant number of critics point out substantial drawbacks that limit the game's replay value. CGMagazine criticizes the shallow skill tree and repetitive combat, indicating that these factors detract from the overall experience. Hey Poor Player echoes this sentiment by stating that the game offers little beyond the main campaign, with an empty world and a lack of variety in enemies. Many reviewers, including Worth Playing and GamingBolt, note the absence of a New Game+ mode or additional challenge modes, which further restricts replayability. The consensus among critics like Screen Rant and Softpedia is that the game’s short length and minimal collectibles do not provide enough incentive for players to return after completing the story. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a lack of significant replay value in Strayed Lights. While some reviewers, like Movies Games and Tech and Game Informer, find elements that could encourage replay, the majority express concerns about the game's limited content and repetitive mechanics. Critics such as Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe emphasize that the straightforward nature of the game, coupled with its short duration, results in a linear experience that may not entice players to revisit it. Thus, while Strayed Lights offers a charming experience, its replay value appears to be a notable shortcoming according to the majority of reviews.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Strayed Lights is mixed, with numerous critics praising its artistic presentation and unique gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Digital Spy, hailed it as a "well-crafted Souls-lite adventure" with a "lavish world" and "beautiful soundtrack." Similarly, CGMagazine noted the game's "impressive visuals and atmosphere," while Checkpoint Gaming emphasized its "satisfying challenge" and "beautiful art." Critics like COGconnected and Finger Guns also highlighted the game's addictive combat and sound design, suggesting that its visual and auditory elements create an immersive experience that stands out in the action-adventure genre. However, despite these commendations, Strayed Lights faces significant criticism regarding its storytelling, gameplay depth, and overall execution. Several reviewers, including XboxEra and God is a Geek, pointed out the game's lack of narrative substance and connection, describing it as "forgettable" and "disconnected." Critics like Gaming Age and Hey Poor Player echoed these sentiments, mentioning repetitive encounters and a lack of enemy variety as detractors from the overall experience. Additionally, many reviewers noted technical issues and a lack of polish, with GamingBolt labeling it a "bland experience" and PlayStation Universe remarking on the combat mechanics that detract from the story. The consensus among critics indicates that while Strayed Lights has the potential to be a memorable title due to its stunning visuals and engaging combat mechanics, it ultimately falls short in delivering a cohesive and deep experience. Critics like KeenGamer and Noisy Pixel acknowledged its strong debut and emotional storytelling, yet many others, such as Shacknews and Softpedia, highlighted the frustrations stemming from its gameplay and narrative execution. Overall, Strayed Lights is seen as a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre, but it may not resonate with a broader audience due to its various shortcomings.

TL;DR

Strayed Lights showcases stunning visuals and addictive combat, earning praise as a "well-crafted Souls-lite adventure." Critics commend its artistic flair and immersive atmosphere. However, it suffers from significant storytelling flaws, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues, leading to a mixed reception. While it captivates some genre fans, many find it lacks depth and coherence, making it a hit-or-miss experience overall.

MONSTER

Reviews

63 reviews found

KeenGamer

PlayStation 5

Apr 28, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is praised as a strong debut from Embers, combining emotional storytelling, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals and music, making it a noteworthy title.

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Finger Guns

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a short but sweet experiential title that shines bright with its atmospheric story, rewarding gameplay, and fantastic graphics and music. Despite some minor issues, the game leaves a lasting impression. It is highly recommended.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a strongly designed action adventure with a melancholic atmosphere. Despite potential issues like low difficulty, it is an exceptional debut outing.

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COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

The review concludes that Strayed Lights is a special game with addictive combat, a beautiful world, and incredible sound design. Despite the vague narrative and some awkward animations, it delivers an unforgettable experience.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

The reviewer enjoyed Strayed Lights despite not being a fan of action-combat games. The unique combat system, visuals, and exploration made it a worthwhile experience.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

May 1, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a confident debut game with immaculate gameplay and beautiful visuals and music.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

May 17, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a wonderful and strange experience that stands out from its peers. Despite a lack of guidance, the incredible combat, amazing audio, and excellent stage design make it worth buying.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Apr 27, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is an entertaining action-adventure game with a satisfying challenge, beautiful art, and basic but effective storytelling.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Apr 25, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a strong debut from Embers with a unique combat system, beautiful visuals, and a delightful score. Despite some shortcomings in platforming and enemy variety, it shines bright.

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Digital Spy

Xbox Series X

Apr 28, 2023

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

Strayed Lights is a unique and well-crafted Souls-lite adventure game with a lavish world, beautiful soundtrack, and addictive combat loop. It is easy to recommend.

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