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

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

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

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn delivers a mixed bag of storytelling. Critics praise its thematic depth and character development, particularly in exploring identity and empathy through new character Nazamil. However, many express disappointment over its execution, citing predictable narratives, uneven pacing, and underdeveloped arcs. While it builds on the base game, it ultimately struggles to reach the emotional highs of its predecessor, leaving a sense of missed potential. Overall, it’s a continuation that fails to fully capitalize on its ambitions.

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 has garnered a mix of positive feedback from several critics, particularly regarding its thematic exploration and character development. Atomix praised the DLC for effectively building upon the narrative foundation of the base game, especially in addressing the merging of the Renan and Dahnan civilizations and the challenges of identity. Similarly, Eurogamer Germany noted that the story delves into themes of empathy and justice through the new character Nazamil, who is highlighted as a standout presence in the narrative. Critics like GamingTrend and Press Start Australia appreciated the thoughtful exploration of the aftermath of global slavery and identity, with an emphasis on character interactions and the development of existing relationships, particularly between Alphen and Shionne. However, the expansion has faced significant criticism for its execution and pacing. Many reviewers, including COGconnected and Cubed3, expressed disappointment in the narrative's depth, stating that it fails to explore tough topics fully and often feels predictable. Destructoid noted that while the narrative has some enjoyable twists, it does not reach the emotional highs of the base game, and the main character arcs are not sufficiently developed. Critics like RPG Fan and Worth Playing echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the story lacks originality and depth, with some characters, including Nazamil, feeling underdeveloped. The pacing issues were highlighted by multiple reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and Hey Poor Player, who indicated that the story drags in parts and is filled with repetitive dialogue and mundane side quests. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Beyond the Dawn offers an engaging continuation of the Tales of Arise narrative, it struggles to achieve the same level of impact and depth as its predecessor. Critics like God is a Geek and Push Square pointed out that although the themes of coexistence and identity are relevant, the execution often falls flat due to uneven pacing and a reliance on familiar tropes. The introduction of Nazamil, while seen as a positive addition, does not fully compensate for the narrative's shortcomings. In summary, Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn presents a mixed bag of storytelling, with some critics appreciating its ambition while others lament its lack of depth and originality.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" boasts engaging combat mechanics and visual flair, earning praise from critics for its intuitive gameplay. However, many reviewers criticize the expansion for its lack of innovation, repetitive maps, and limited new challenges, leading to a stale experience that feels too similar to the original. Overall, while the combat remains fun, the absence of fresh content leaves players wanting more.

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.

In analyzing the gameplay of "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn," there are several positive aspects that critics have highlighted. Many reviewers, such as Destructoid and WellPlayed, praised the combat system for its engaging and intuitive mechanics, which allow for satisfying combos and a smooth transition between turn-based and free-range combat. Critics like GamingTrend noted the enjoyable nature of the combat, emphasizing its visual appeal and the excitement it brings to battles. Additionally, Eurogamer Germany mentioned the introduction of new skill trees for the six main characters, which adds some depth to character progression, despite the overall gameplay structure remaining similar to the base game. However, a significant number of critics expressed disappointment regarding the lack of innovation and new content in the gameplay. Atomix and God is a Geek lamented the absence of new skills or mechanics, which they felt was a missed opportunity to enhance combat. Many reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan, pointed out that the gameplay feels repetitive, with recycled maps and limited new challenges. The combat, while enjoyable, was described as monotonous by critics like Finger Guns and Noisy Pixel, who noted that the dungeon design and battle encounters lacked variety and excitement, making the overall experience feel stale. The overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the gameplay in "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn." While there are commendable elements, particularly in combat mechanics and visual design, many reviewers agree that the expansion fails to introduce significant new features or improvements. Critics such as LevelUp and TheSixthAxis emphasized that the gameplay remains largely unchanged from the original, leading to a sense of repetition that could deter returning players. Ultimately, while the core combat remains enjoyable, the lack of fresh content and innovation has left many critics feeling that the expansion does not fully capitalize on its potential.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn impresses with gorgeous, watercolor-like visuals and vibrant environments that critics celebrate, but it faces criticism for technical issues like texture pop-in and performance hiccups. While the aesthetic is praised, concerns over asset recycling and lack of significant enhancements suggest the game doesn't fully escape its predecessor's limitations. Overall, it's visually appealing but marred by persistent technical flaws.

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 graphics and visual design of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's aesthetic appeal and attention to detail. Reviewers like Press Start Australia describe the visuals as "gorgeous and watercolour-esque," emphasizing the game's ability to invoke awe through its stunning environments. Eurogamer Germany appreciates the new dungeons and monster designs, noting that the towns feel livelier and the addition of cosmetic items adds personality to the characters. Critics such as IGN Italia also commend the colorful and detailed world, indicating that returning players will find the visual experience pleasurable. Overall, the game maintains a high standard set by its predecessor, with many reviewers acknowledging that the graphics are still enjoyable and visually impressive. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the technical aspects of the graphics. Several reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and SomosXbox, point out technical issues such as texture pop-in and unstable performance, particularly in quality mode. Cubed3 mentions that the DLC recycles assets from the base game with only minor additions, which may detract from the overall visual freshness. WellPlayed highlights that while the graphics appear better in some respects, there are still noticeable issues with asset pop-in, especially among non-interactive NPCs in towns. TheSixthAxis also notes a sense of repetitiveness in exploring visually altered environments, suggesting that the visual design, while appealing, does not fully escape the limitations of its predecessor. The overall consensus among critics indicates a strong appreciation for the visual design of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn, albeit with some caveats. While many reviewers celebrate the game's beautiful aesthetics and the enhancements made to the environments, they also acknowledge persistent technical issues that prevent it from achieving a flawless execution. Critics like LevelUp and Atomix suggest that, while the graphics hold up well and remain visually striking, the lack of significant changes or enhancements may leave some players wanting more. Ultimately, the game is praised for its artistic direction and visual quality, but it is tempered by concerns over technical performance and asset recycling, reflecting a mixed yet generally favorable sentiment.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" shines in sound design and music, receiving rave reviews for its strong voice acting and a captivating soundtrack by Motoi Sakuraba, enhancing emotional depth and immersion. However, some critics note issues with song distinctiveness and lack of credit for English voice actors, hinting at minor flaws in an otherwise stellar auditory experience.

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 sound design and music of "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's impressive auditory elements. Atomix commends the top-notch voice acting, emphasizing how it enhances the emotional depth of the story, while Finger Guns notes that the returning voice cast seamlessly fits back into their roles. The soundtrack, composed by Motoi Sakuraba, is particularly praised, with Destructoid singling out standout tracks like "Flame of the New Dawn." WellPlayed echoes this sentiment, describing the new tracks as ranging from ethereal to thrilling, further enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, critics like LevelUp and SomosXbox affirm that the music and sound design contribute significantly to immersion, maintaining the high standards set by the base game. Despite the overall acclaim, some criticisms emerge regarding the soundtrack's individuality and the crediting of voice actors. Noisy Pixel points out that while the soundtrack effectively sets the tone, many songs lack distinctiveness, which may detract from the overall impact. Destructoid also raises a valid concern about the lack of credits for the English voice actors, which could be seen as an oversight in recognizing the contributions of the performers. Furthermore, while WellPlayed praises the music, it notes a lack of subtlety in the narrative reconstruction, hinting at a potential disconnect between the audio experience and the storytelling. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" excels in sound design and music, with most reviewers celebrating the quality of the voice acting and the soundtrack. The positive remarks from critics like Atomix and WellPlayed underscore the game's ability to enhance emotional engagement through its audio elements. However, minor criticisms regarding song distinctiveness and crediting practices suggest areas for improvement. Overall, the game stands out in its auditory achievements, contributing to a rich and immersive experience that resonates well with players.

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 with stable performance and minimal issues, while the Steam Deck delivers a smooth experience. However, Xbox Series X struggles with significant technical problems and visual pop-ins. Overall, PS5 is the best choice for a seamless experience, but players on other platforms may face varying degrees of graphical inconsistencies.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" across different gaming platforms, it's evident that there are some positives to highlight. On the PS5, critics like LevelUp and The Games Machine commend the game for its stable technical performance, with LevelUp noting minimal errors and The Games Machine asserting that it runs excellently without issues. This suggests that players on this platform can expect a solid experience that maintains the quality of the original game. Additionally, TouchArcade reports that the game performs well on the Steam Deck, achieving stable gameplay at 40hz, indicating that PC users can also enjoy a smooth experience. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. On the PS5, Hobby Consolas mentions encountering some technical issues, while WellPlayed highlights a specific concern regarding texture and asset pop-in, particularly with non-interactive NPCs in towns. This indicates that while the overall performance is commendable, there are still some graphical inconsistencies that could detract from the experience. On the Xbox Series X, SomosXbox reports more significant technical issues, citing popping and unstable performance in quality mode, which suggests that this platform may not deliver the same level of polish as the PS5 version. TouchArcade also notes visual pop-in on Xbox, further emphasizing the platform's struggles. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed but generally favorable view of the technical performance of "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn." While PS5 players can expect a mostly stable experience, with some minor issues, Xbox Series X users face more pronounced technical challenges. The PC version, particularly on the Steam Deck, seems to stand out positively, though it is not without its minor visual hiccups. The varying experiences across platforms underline the importance of considering hardware capabilities and optimization, with the PS5 emerging as the most reliable choice for players seeking a seamless gaming experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" offers some fresh content and about 20 hours of gameplay, appealing to die-hard fans with new storylines and side quests. However, critics largely agree that its replay value is limited due to a lack of substantial new features and repetitive side quests. Many feel the expansion is more of an optional add-on than a must-play, leaving some players questioning its worth.

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 opinions of critics regarding the replay value of "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" reveal some positive aspects, particularly for dedicated fans of the franchise. Several reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and PlayStation Universe, highlight that the expansion offers a new storyline, side quests, and additional gear, which can provide fans with a reason to return to the game and further explore its characters and world. Eurogamer Germany mentions that the DLC can extend gameplay to around 20 hours when engaging with all content, including side quests that add depth to the narrative. Additionally, Noisy Pixel notes that the inclusion of coliseum challenges and side quests can contribute to the overall experience, suggesting that there is some enjoyable content for players willing to dive back in. However, a significant number of critics express concerns regarding the limited replay value of the DLC. Atomix and Cubed3 point out that while the expansion offers a decent amount of playtime, it lacks substantial new content and gameplay innovations, which diminishes its appeal for replayability. Critics such as God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it echo this sentiment, emphasizing the absence of new mechanics and character development as key factors that detract from the overall experience. Finger Guns and Hey Poor Player highlight that the side quests are often repetitive and lack depth, further contributing to the notion that the expansion may not provide enough incentive for players to revisit the game after completing it. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" offers some enjoyable content for fans, its replay value is limited due to a lack of significant new features and innovations. Many reviewers, including TheSixthAxis and Wccftech, suggest that the expansion feels more like an optional addition rather than a necessary experience for those who have completed the original game. The repetitive nature of side quests and the absence of carryover progress from the base game leave many critics feeling that the DLC may not be worth the investment for all players, particularly those seeking a fresh 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 sentiment regarding "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" reflects a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for its appeal to fans of the original game. Many reviewers, such as Destructoid and Press Start Australia, highlight the expansion's ability to deliver a satisfying continuation of the narrative and character arcs, making it a worthwhile experience for dedicated fans. Eurogamer Germany praises the addition of new monsters and dungeons, while GamingTrend appreciates the thoughtful storytelling and the exploration of significant themes. Critics like Atomix and God is a Geek also acknowledge that, despite some shortcomings, the expansion retains the charm and elements that made the base game enjoyable. However, the critiques of "Beyond the Dawn" reveal a consensus that it falls short in several key areas. Many reviewers, including COGconnected and Finger Guns, point out issues with the pacing and narrative depth, describing the story as bland or lacking a compelling reason to be told. The lack of substantial new content and gameplay innovations is a recurring theme, with critics like RPG Fan and Multiplayer.it expressing disappointment over the absence of meaningful additions that could justify the $30 price tag. Additionally, some reviewers, such as WellPlayed and Wccftech, mention that the finale feels weak and does not live up to the expectations set by the main game. In summary, while "Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" is generally seen as a solid expansion for fans eager to return to the beloved world and characters, the overall consensus among critics is that it doesn't quite meet the standards of innovation and depth expected from a DLC. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Worth Playing encapsulate this sentiment, suggesting that while it offers a delightful revisit for ardent fans, it may not provide enough new content or changes to justify its price for a broader audience. As such, the expansion is recommended primarily for die-hard fans, while others may find it lacking in value.

TL;DR

"Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn" receives positive nods for its continuation of beloved characters and narrative, appealing mainly to die-hard fans. However, critics highlight significant flaws, including pacing issues, bland storytelling, and a lack of substantial new content to justify its $30 price. Ultimately, while enjoyable for loyal fans, it may disappoint those seeking innovation or depth.

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