Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn cover image

Links

Steam

MONSTER

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn
Item: Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

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

AvailableNov 9, 2023

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

DeveloperBandai Namco Games

Overview

The new expansion pack taking place a year after the war between Dahna and Rena.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Praised for emotional depth and character moments, Beyond the Dawn struggles with uneven pacing, shallow themes, and clichéd storytelling, delivering a flawed yet occasionally compelling expansion.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn receives praise for its thematic depth and character-driven narrative, with several critics highlighting its exploration of post-game consequences and societal challenges. Atomix commends the DLC for building on the base game’s themes, particularly the merging of Renan and Dahnan civilizations and the struggles of identity, while GamingTrend appreciates its focus on Nazamil’s journey and the development of Alphen and Shionne’s romance. IGN Italia and The Games Machine note the emphasis on equality, acceptance, and the emotional weight of Nazamil’s story, with Eurogamer Germany emphasizing themes of empathy and justice. Additionally, Noisy Pixel and GameGrin praise the introduction of Nazamil as a standout character who adds heart to the expansion, and Press Start Australia highlights the exploration of identity and community dynamics. These positives suggest the DLC successfully extends the series’ narrative while offering meaningful character moments. However, several critics criticize the DLC for its lack of depth, uneven pacing, and reliance on overused tropes. Cubed3 and Destructoid argue that the story fails to fully explore its themes, with Cubed3 noting superficial treatment of tough topics and Destructoid calling the narrative “standard” compared to the base game. Finger Guns and RPG Fan criticize the lack of originality, with the latter pointing out thin writing around Nazamil and a weak “power of friendship” theme. Multiplayer.it and WellPlayed highlight predictable storytelling and mundane side quests, while Hobby Consolas and Wccftech mention slow pacing and unimpressive execution. The DLC’s focus on Nazamil, while praised by some, is seen as underdeveloped by others, with RPG Fan and TouchArcade noting her lack of memorability and the narrative’s failure to deliver impactful stakes. Overall, critics agree that Beyond the Dawn is a competent but uneven extension of Tales of Arise, offering engaging character moments and thematic exploration but falling short in execution. While Atomix, GamingTrend, and IGN Italia celebrate its emotional depth and world-building, others like Cubed3, RPG Fan, and Multiplayer.it criticize its predictability and pacing issues. The DLC’s focus on Nazamil and post-game societal challenges is a mixed bag—some find her compelling (Noisy Pixel, GameGrin), while others deem her underdeveloped (RPG Fan, TouchArcade). Despite these divides, the consensus leans toward it being a worthwhile but flawed addition to the series, with many acknowledging its potential to enrich the lore while recognizing its shortcomings in narrative ambition and pacing.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Praised for emotional depth and character moments, Beyond the Dawn struggles with uneven pacing, shallow themes, and clichéd storytelling, delivering a flawed yet occasionally compelling expansion.

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Polished combat and creative dungeons shine, but repetitive DLC lacks innovation, offering little new for fans or newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn receives praise for its familiar yet refined combat mechanics and engaging content, despite its reliance on the base game’s formula. Critics like Destructoid highlight the “engaging and intuitive” combat system, noting satisfying combos and Boost Strikes that bridge turn-based and free-range gameplay. WellPlayed commends the “responsive action-packed combat” and variety of challenging fights, while GamingTrend appreciates the revamped dungeons with “fantastic visual design” and unique gimmicks. Additionally, Eurogamer Germany acknowledges the introduction of three new skill trees for each main character, adding depth to progression. These positives suggest that fans of the original will find comfort in the polished mechanics and expanded content, even if it doesn’t break new ground. However, the DLC faces significant criticism for its lack of innovation and repetitive structure. Atomix and God is a Geek lament the absence of new skills, enemies, or mechanics, calling it a missed opportunity to elevate combat. Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it describe the gameplay as “repetitive” and “monotonous,” with recycled maps, enemy encounters, and side quests that fail to engage. Cubed3 criticizes the “lack of intensity” in boss fights and randomly tacked-on skits, while Worth Playing notes that the combat feels like a retread despite its enjoyable core. The DLC’s reliance on familiar mechanics without meaningful evolution leads to frustration, particularly for players expecting fresh challenges or narrative depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward disappointment. While many acknowledge the gameplay’s consistency and enjoyment—especially Destructoid’s praise for combat fluidity and WellPlayed’s recognition of JRPG excellence—the DLC is seen as a shallow expansion lacking innovation. Most reviewers agree it’s a “blast” for fans of the original but falls short in delivering substantial new content, with Finger Guns and Multiplayer.it highlighting its repetitive nature. The lack of meaningful changes to mechanics, enemy variety, or narrative depth leaves many feeling that Beyond the Dawn is more of the same, offering value primarily to those already invested in the series rather than newcomers or skeptics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Polished combat and creative dungeons shine, but repetitive DLC lacks innovation, offering little new for fans or newcomers.

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Beyond the Dawn dazzles with artistic brilliance but stumbles on technical flaws—visually stunning yet repetitive, polished yet plagued by glitches, offering a feast for the eyes but a bumpy ride for the senses.

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 majority of reviewers praised the visual design of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn, highlighting its continued aesthetic excellence and creative flourishes. Atomix noted that the DLC’s new dungeons, while similar in design to the main game, enhance the world through improved cityscapes and side quests that add personality to locations. Eurogamer Germany celebrated the visually appealing new dungeons, monster designs, and lively towns, while Press Start Australia described the visuals as “gorgeous” and “watercolour-esque,” emphasizing their ability to evoke awe. LevelUp and IGN Italia commended the DLC for maintaining the high visual standards of the original game, with WellPlayed observing that environmental changes—such as added color, particle effects, and serene aesthetics—elevate the world’s charm. GameGrin and TouchArcade also praised the “beautiful” and “fantastical” visuals, reinforcing the sense of a cohesive, immersive artistic vision. However, several critics pointed to notable shortcomings in the DLC’s visual execution. Cubed3 criticized the reliance on recycled assets from the base game, with only minor additions, while TheSixthAxis found the environments—though altered—felt repetitive when revisited with the same characters. WellPlayed and SomosXbox highlighted technical issues such as texture pop-in, unstable performance in quality mode, and visual glitches, particularly with non-interactive NPCs. Hobby Consolas noted “impressive visuals with some technical issues,” and TouchArcade mentioned persistent pop-in problems on PC and Steam Deck. These critiques suggest that while the DLC’s art direction remains strong, its technical implementation and creative originality fell short of expectations. Overall, the consensus leans toward appreciation for Beyond the Dawn’s visual design as a continuation of the series’ strengths, albeit with caveats. Critics like Atomix, Eurogamer Germany, and Press Start Australia emphasized its artistic merits and atmospheric appeal, while others, such as Cubed3 and TheSixthAxis, questioned its lack of innovation. Technical issues and repetitive elements were recurring concerns, but many acknowledged that the DLC’s visuals remain a standout aspect of the game. The mixed feedback reflects a balance between admiration for the art style and frustration with execution flaws, ultimately positioning Beyond the Dawn as a visually pleasing yet imperfect expansion.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics lauded Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn’s immersive sound design and Motoi Sakuraba’s iconic soundtrack, with standout tracks like ‘Flame of the New Dawn’ and stellar voice acting elevating the experience. While minor critiques—repetitive melodies, uncredited VAs, and narrative tropes—surfaced, they paled against universal acclaim for the audio’s emotional depth and cohesion, cementing it as a series highlight.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the sound design and music of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn, highlighting its immersive and emotionally resonant qualities. Motoi Sakuraba’s soundtrack was a standout element, with Destructoid and Finger Guns lauding its "top-notch" quality and memorable tracks like ‘Flame of the New Dawn’. LevelUp and WellPlayed emphasized how the music and sound design elevated the overall experience, while Noisy Pixel noted that the soundtrack effectively set the tone despite some songs lacking distinctiveness. Voice acting also received consistent acclaim, with Atomix praising its "top-notch" performances and Finger Guns noting the returning cast’s seamless return to their roles. Additionally, SomosXbox highlighted the DLC’s soundtrack as maintaining the base game’s high standards, reinforcing the sense of continuity and immersion. While the general reception was overwhelmingly positive, some critics pointed to minor shortcomings. Noisy Pixel critiqued the lack of individual distinction in many tracks, suggesting that while the music was effective, it occasionally felt repetitive. Destructoid noted the absence of credits for English voice actors, a small but notable oversight. WellPlayed also mentioned narrative issues, such as a lack of subtlety and reliance on young adult anime tropes, though these critiques were more about storytelling than sound design itself. These points, while valid, did not detract from the overall enthusiasm for the game’s audio elements. The consensus among critics was overwhelmingly favorable, with nearly all acknowledging the exceptional quality of the soundtrack and voice acting. The praise for Sakuraba’s compositions, the emotional depth of the vocal performances, and the cohesive sound design underscored the game’s ability to enhance its narrative and gameplay. While a few critiques pointed to minor flaws—such as repetitive tracks or uncredited voice actors—these were overshadowed by the collective admiration for the audio direction. As LevelUp and WellPlayed noted, the music and sound design were not just complementary but integral to the game’s success, making Beyond the Dawn a standout entry in the series’ audio legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn shines on PS5 and PC with stellar stability and polish, but Xbox users face DLC-specific glitches and quality-mode instability—minor quirks that don’t derail an otherwise technically sound experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn receives generally positive feedback across platforms, though with nuanced variations. On PS5, reviewers like LevelUp and The Games Machine praise its stability and excellence, noting minimal errors and no major issues. WellPlayed acknowledges minor texture pop-in but emphasizes that it doesn’t detract from the overall experience. For PC (Steam Deck), TouchArcade highlights stable gameplay at 40Hz with no significant technical problems, while also mentioning visual pop-in as a minor caveat. On Xbox Series X, SomosXbox points to DLC-specific issues like texture popping and unstable performance in quality mode, though this is the only platform-specific critique of that nature. Overall, the PS5 and PC versions appear more polished, with Xbox’s technical challenges largely confined to the DLC content. However, some concerns persist across platforms. On PS5, Hobby Consolas notes “some technical issues,” which may align with WellPlayed’s observation of texture pop-in, though these are framed as minor rather than disruptive. For Xbox Series X, SomosXbox’s criticism of the DLC’s instability and visual glitches stands out as a significant drawback, particularly for players prioritizing performance in quality mode. On PC, TouchArcade mentions “visual pop-in on Xbox,” which might suggest cross-platform inconsistencies or a note about the PC version’s optimization relative to other systems. While these issues are not catastrophic, they highlight that technical polish varies slightly depending on the platform and content type, with Xbox facing more pronounced challenges in specific areas. The overall consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn’s technical performance, particularly for PS5 and PC. Most reviewers, including The Games Machine and LevelUp, emphasize stability and quality, while TouchArcade’s praise for Steam Deck’s performance underscores its adaptability across hardware. However, Xbox users may encounter more friction, especially with the DLC, as noted by SomosXbox. While minor issues like texture pop-in are acknowledged, they are rarely described as deal-breakers. The mixed feedback suggests that the game’s technical foundation is solid but not flawless, with platform-specific nuances influencing the experience. Critics agree that these challenges do not overshadow the game’s broader strengths, making it a technically sound release despite its imperfections.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Beyond the Dawn delivers hefty content for fans—new quests, areas, and stories—but feels repetitive, overpriced, and stuck in familiar mechanics, offering little new for outsiders while testing patience for those already invested.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The reviewers generally acknowledge that Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn offers a commendable amount of content for dedicated fans, with several highlighting its extended gameplay and additional story elements. Destructoid notes that the DLC adds more story, quests, and dungeons without introducing game-changing mechanics, while Eurogamer Germany estimates around 10 hours for the main story and up to 20 hours if all DLC is explored, including side quests that deepen world immersion. Press Start Australia emphasizes new areas, side quests, and equipment as reasons to revisit the game, and TheSixthAxis suggests it provides a compelling reason for fans to engage with the world and characters again. RPG Fan also points to the lengthy playtime and abundance of sidequests, though they acknowledge the story’s lack of significance. These positives indicate that the DLC succeeds in delivering extra content for those already invested in the game’s universe. However, many critics express disappointment with the DLC’s limited innovation and repetitive structure, which undermines its replay value. Atomix criticizes the lack of substantial new content and gameplay additions, while Cubed3 highlights a steep price tag paired with minimal novelty. Finger Guns notes that there are no new features or significant changes, limiting replayability, and God is a Geek points to the overwhelming skill-point system as a deterrent. IGN Italia calls the expansion short and forgettable, while LevelUp and Multiplayer.it argue it feels optional and fails to add meaningful depth. Hey Poor Player and RPG Site further criticize repetitive side quests and thin content, with the latter describing the DLC as “stale” and “trite.” These critiques collectively suggest that the DLC’s reliance on familiar mechanics and lack of fresh ideas diminishes its appeal for returning players. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward a cautious recommendation. While some fans may appreciate the extra storylines, side content, and exploration opportunities—particularly those who value extended engagement with the game’s world (as noted by Destructoid, Eurogamer Germany, and Press Start Australia)—the majority agree that Beyond the Dawn lacks the transformative elements needed to justify its cost or repeated playthroughs. TheSixthAxis captures this duality, acknowledging it as a worthwhile addition for loyal fans but cautioning that it offers little new for newcomers. Ultimately, the DLC’s replay value hinges on individual preferences: those seeking more time with the game’s characters and setting may find it rewarding, while others will likely view it as a superficial extension of an already complete experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall verdict on Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn highlights its strengths as a fan-focused expansion that delivers engaging storytelling, exploration, and character-driven moments. Critics like Atomix and Destructoid praise it as a worthwhile addition for dedicated fans, noting its satisfying continuation of the game’s universe and the “simple yet effective” conclusion to the narrative. Eurogamer Germany appreciates the new monsters, dungeons, and exploration elements, while GamingTrend commends its thoughtful story and realistic portrayal of the game’s aftermath. Push Square and Press Start Australia highlight the fun battles and nostalgic revisit to the world, emphasizing that it “treads familiar ground” but remains enjoyable for those invested in the series. The DLC is often described as a “delightful follow-up” (per GamingTrend) and a “welcome revisit” (as noted by Noisy Pixel), with many acknowledging its ability to deepen character relationships and sidequest completion. However, several critics point to significant drawbacks, particularly the lack of substantial new content and repetitive gameplay. COGconnected and Finger Guns criticize the bland story and pacing issues, while Cubed3 and Multiplayer.it argue it feels overpriced and lacks innovation. RPG Site and Wccftech describe the narrative as unoriginal and dull, with IGN Italia noting that the DLC’s “contained story” fails to leave a lasting impact. WellPlayed points out the weak finale and absence of new locations or characters, while Hey Poor Player highlights rushed storytelling and repetitive side quests. Many also take issue with the $30 price tag, with Destructoid calling it “a bit high” and Cubed3 suggesting it’s only justified for hardcore fans. The DLC’s reliance on familiar mechanics and lack of meaningful changes to the base game are recurring criticisms, with RPG Fan dismissing it as a “missed opportunity.” Despite mixed reactions, the consensus among critics is that Beyond the Dawn is a solid but niche expansion primarily tailored for devoted fans of Tales of Arise. While Destructoid and GamingTrend argue it’s worth the time for those who loved the original, others like Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan question its value for newcomers or casual players. The DLC is seen as a “delightful excuse” (per TheSixthAxis) to revisit the world but falls short of being essential. Most agree it’s a “good addition for fans” (as noted by TouchArcade) but not a transformative experience. Ultimately, while the expansion succeeds in delivering a satisfying epilogue and nostalgic charm, its lack of innovation and high cost create a divide between enthusiastic supporters and skeptical critics, leaving its recommendation heavily dependent on one’s investment in the series.

TL;DR

A fan-focused DLC that delivers nostalgic charm and satisfying closure for Tales of Arise enthusiasts but struggles with repetition, unoriginal storytelling, and a steep price tag, making it a bittersweet, niche experience best suited for hardcore fans.

MONSTER

Reviews

43 reviews found

GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Nov 16, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn is described as a delightful follow-up, with a thoughtful story, enjoyable gameplay, and a realistic impression of the aftermath of global slavery. The reviewer considers it exactly what it should be.

Read full review

Multiplayer.it

PlayStation 5

Nov 10, 2023

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

Beyond the Dawn is a disappointing and unnecessary DLC that fails to add much to the base game. It arrives two years late and offers little new content or meaningful additions. It is only recommended for die-hard fans of the main game, and even then, it should be purchased at a discounted price.

Read full review

Eurogamer Germany

PlayStation 5

Nov 9, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn is a satisfying DLC that allows players to delve back into the world of Tales of Arise. It enriches the experience with new monsters, dungeons, and exploration elements. The story takes time to pick up, but the last third of the DLC is engaging and well-developed.

Read full review

GameGrin

Nov 8, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn DLC is a must-play for fans of the base game, but it may not change the minds of those who didn't enjoy the original game.

Read full review

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Nov 9, 2023

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

Tales of Arise Beyond the Dawn is a welcome revisit, providing a satisfying epilogue for those who value engaging character relationships and complete the sidequests. The gameplay issues from the base game persist, but the DLC was crafted with care.

Read full review

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Nov 17, 2023

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

Beyond the Dawn is a worthwhile addition to the game, providing an engaging and satisfying continuation of the Tales of Arise universe. However, the lack of substantial new content and gameplay additions prevent it from truly standing out.

Read full review

Press Start Australia

PlayStation 5

Nov 9, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn is a great way for fans to come back to the game, offering more of what made the main game excellent. It treads familiar ground and has some awkward integration, but it's still worth seeking out for franchise fans and those who enjoyed the main game.

Read full review

The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Dec 1, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn is a solid narrative expansion that offers a chance to revisit the world and characters, but it falls short in gameplay innovation and exploration.

Read full review

SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Nov 8, 2023

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn is a recommended expansion for those who want to explore the world of Rena and Dahna further and discover the new secrets it presents. However, for those seeking a standalone experience or substantial gameplay improvements, this DLC may not fully meet those expectations.

Hobby Consolas

PlayStation 5

Nov 8, 2023

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

Good expansion, lacks gameplay innovations

Read full review