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Tales of Graces f Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tales of Graces f Remastered
Item: Tales of Graces f Remastered
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJan 17, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperTOSE

Overview

The remastered title adds more than 80 DLC packs and items release for the original and features stunning visuals, newly localized scenes available in English for the first time, and notable quality of life enhancements such as auto-save.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered captivates with a heartfelt narrative centered on friendship and personal growth, praised for its emotional depth and character development. Critics highlight engaging storytelling and well-crafted characters, despite common JRPG tropes leading to predictability and pacing issues, particularly in the slow prologue. While some character arcs feel rushed, the game remains a solid entry in the Tales series, resonating well with fans of character-driven tales, though it ultimately plays it safe within the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Tales of Graces f Remastered has garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who praise its exploration of themes such as friendship, personal growth, and the complexities of human relationships. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Digital Chumps highlight the character-driven narrative that follows Asbel Lhant and his friends, emphasizing the emotional depth and development of the cast. Critics from CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the anime-inspired narrative set against a backdrop of war, noting that the story is engaging and features well-crafted characters. Additionally, the inclusion of plot twists and the evolution of character dynamics, as mentioned by critics like GAMES.CH and Multiplayer.it, contribute to a rich narrative experience that resonates with players. Despite its strengths, several critics point out notable weaknesses in the storytelling. Many reviews, including those from Jeuxvideo.com and God is a Geek, criticize the narrative for being predictable and reliant on common JRPG tropes, which can detract from the overall experience. Pacing issues are a recurring theme, with critics like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and Hey Poor Player mentioning that the story takes time to gain momentum, particularly due to a slow prologue and uneven pacing throughout. Furthermore, some critics, such as Riot Pixels and RPGamer, express disappointment with character development, citing moments that feel rushed or poorly executed, which can undermine the emotional impact of key plot points. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Tales of Graces f Remastered offers a heartfelt and engaging narrative that, while rooted in familiar tropes, succeeds in delivering a compelling story through strong character relationships. Reviewers generally agree that the game excels in character development, with many noting the emotional resonance of the narrative, as seen in the opinions of Noisy Pixel and Impulsegamer. However, the predictable elements and pacing issues highlighted by critics like Vandal and Wccftech suggest that while the story is enjoyable, it may not break new ground within the genre. Ultimately, the game is seen as a solid entry in the Tales franchise, appealing particularly to fans of character-driven storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered impresses with its dynamic combat system and strategic depth, earning praise for the innovative Style Shift Linear Motion Battle System and customizable features. Critics appreciate its accessibility for various skill levels, but some note confusion for newcomers and concerns about clunky mechanics. While the gameplay shows some dated elements and repetitive designs, the overall reception is positive, highlighting its engaging combat and enhancements that keep the Tales series strong.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Tales of Graces f Remastered has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and dynamic combat system. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and GamersRD, praised the combat mechanics, specifically the Style Shift Linear Motion Battle System (SS-LMBS), which is noted for its fast-paced, 3D arena-style battles and strategic depth. Critics like But Why Tho? and Digital Chumps emphasized the flexibility of the Dualize system and the Chain Capacity system, which not only enrich the combat experience but also cater to both newcomers and veterans alike. The inclusion of quality-of-life improvements, such as the Grade Shop and customizable difficulty options, further enhances the overall gameplay experience, making it more accessible and enjoyable for a wide array of players. However, not all feedback was entirely favorable. Some critics pointed out that the combat system can be confusing for new players, as noted by ElDesmarque, who mentioned that while the combat is dynamic, it may not match the quality of other recent remasters. Critics like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and Impulsegamer expressed concerns over clunky mechanics and an unclear targeting system, which can detract from the fluidity of combat. Additionally, while many praised the depth and variety of the gameplay, some reviewers, such as MGG and Riot Pixels, found aspects of the gameplay to be somewhat dated or repetitive, particularly regarding enemy designs and the overall pacing of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Tales of Graces f Remastered offers a robust and enjoyable gameplay experience, with a strong emphasis on its combat system. The majority of reviewers, including those from GamingBolt and Push Square, highlighted the engaging mechanics and strategic options available to players, suggesting that the game successfully retains the essence of its original release while integrating modern enhancements. Despite some criticisms regarding accessibility for new players and certain dated elements, the game is celebrated for its depth, customization, and addictive combat, making it a standout title in the Tales series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered impresses with 4K visuals and smooth 60 FPS, earning praise for its vibrant anime aesthetic. Critics highlight the graphical upgrades, but many note lingering signs of age, such as outdated textures and technical flaws like screen tearing. While it enhances the original charm, it doesn't fully utilize modern graphical capabilities, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The remastered version of Tales of Graces f has garnered a largely positive reception regarding its graphics and visual design, particularly for its enhancements in resolution and frame rate. Critics like CGMagazine and GamersRD noted the upgrade to 4K resolution and a consistent 60 FPS, which significantly improves the visual experience compared to the original PS3 release. Checkpoint Gaming praised the graphical overhaul, highlighting enhanced visuals, lighting, and textures that contribute to a vibrant and appealing aesthetic. Many reviewers, such as GAMES.CH and RPG Fan, appreciated the colorful and stylized character designs that align well with the anime aesthetic, making the game visually engaging for both new players and returning fans. However, several critics pointed out that despite the remaster's improvements, the graphics still show signs of aging. For instance, Hey Poor Player and Jeuxvideo.com remarked that the visuals, while polished, retain a somewhat dated look, particularly in textures and environment design. Critics like COGconnected and Riot Pixels expressed disappointment over the remaster not fully utilizing modern graphical capabilities, describing the visual design as outdated compared to contemporary titles. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GamingBolt and Shacknews, noted technical issues like awkward facial expressions and screen tearing, which detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Tales of Graces f Remastered offers significant graphical improvements, it does not completely transcend its origins as a Wii title. The remaster successfully enhances the original's charm and aesthetic appeal, as noted by critics like Digital Chumps and Vandal, but it is also clear that the game still bears the marks of its age. The vibrant colors and stylized designs are well-received, yet the limitations in environmental detail and some technical shortcomings prevent it from being considered a groundbreaking visual achievement. Thus, while the remaster is a step forward, it still leaves room for improvement in fully modernizing the visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered receives mixed reviews for its sound design and music. While praised for its grand orchestral soundtrack and strong voice acting, some critics find the music average and forgettable, with issues like poor lip-syncing detracting from immersion. Overall, it offers a solid auditory experience but falls short of excellence, with room for improvement in its musical composition.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

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 Graces f Remastered have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for the quality of the soundtrack and voice acting. Critics like GameGrin and RPG Site highlight the grand orchestral music that enhances the game's epic moments, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that complements the narrative. The work of composer Motoi Sakuraba is frequently mentioned, with GamersRD noting that the soundtrack is catchy and fitting for different game scenarios. Additionally, the option to switch between English and Japanese voiceovers, as mentioned by TheSixthAxis, is seen as a positive feature that enriches the storytelling experience. Many reviewers also commend the voice acting, with Player 2 calling it well-executed and contributing positively to the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the soundtrack and sound design as well. Some critics, like Hobby Consolas and Worth Playing, describe the soundtrack as average or unremarkable, suggesting that it lacks standout tracks that could elevate the experience. COGconnected points out that the music often fades into the background, failing to capture attention, while XboxEra goes further, labeling the music as "milquetoast" and lacking memorability. Additionally, there are mentions of technical issues, such as the lip-syncing problems noted by GamingBolt, which detracts from the immersion during cutscenes. Critics like GameBlast also express disappointment over the lack of information regarding the music and voices in the game's museum feature. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Tales of Graces f Remastered features a competent soundtrack and strong voice acting, it does not reach the heights of excellence that some might expect from a remaster. The music, while effective in certain contexts, is often described as lacking memorability and depth, with several critics suggesting that new compositions or arrangements could have enhanced the experience. The voice acting is generally well-received, though some critiques point to inconsistencies in delivery and translation. Ultimately, the remaster offers a solid auditory experience but leaves room for improvement, particularly in the realm of its musical composition.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Tales of Graces f Remastered receives mixed reviews; critics praise the dual-language feature for enhancing immersion and commend talented actors like Laura Bailey. However, many find the English dub lacking, describing it as awkward and dated, which detracts from the experience. While the remaster showcases strong performances, the inconsistent quality leaves some players dissatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Tales of Graces f Remastered has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting the game's dual-language feature as a significant strength. Many reviewers appreciate the option to switch between English and Japanese voiceovers, which enhances player immersion and caters to individual preferences. For instance, Digital Chumps and Vandal commend the inclusion of both language options, emphasizing how this flexibility contributes to a more authentic gaming experience. Critics like GamingBolt and Hobby Consolas praise the strong voice talent, noting performances from well-known actors like Laura Bailey and Cassandra Lee Morris, who bring depth to their characters. Noisy Pixel and Player 2 also mention that the English voice direction has aged well, with plenty of personality infused in the delivery, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the game. Conversely, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly in the English dub. Checkpoint Gaming describes the English voice acting as below-average and mediocre, suggesting that it fails to fully showcase the talents of the cast. RPGamer echoes this sentiment, pointing out that while the voice actors are talented, the line delivery can be awkward, especially during cutscenes, which detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, like TheSixthAxis, mention that the English dub may feel dated, which could affect its appeal to newer players. GamersRD and COGconnected also note that while the voice acting is decent, there are inconsistencies in quality, particularly after certain narrative shifts. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the voice acting quality and those who find faults in the English dub. While many reviewers, such as RPG Fan and XboxEra, acknowledge the talent involved and the charm of the performances, others like Checkpoint Gaming and RPGamer highlight significant shortcomings that hinder the experience. The dual-language feature is widely praised, and the presence of strong voice actors is recognized, yet the execution of the English voice acting remains a point of contention. Ultimately, while the remaster offers a solid voice acting experience, the varying opinions suggest that it may not fully resonate with all players, particularly those sensitive to voice acting quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered shines on PS5 with a solid 60 FPS, improved load times, and quality-of-life features that enhance gameplay. Critics praise its stability and technical performance, though minor issues like AI flaws and combat pacing were noted. The Switch version suffers with capped 30 FPS and lower resolution, making it the weakest link. Overall, the remaster is a successful update, especially for PS5 and PC players, despite some criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Tales of Graces f Remastered has garnered predominantly positive feedback across the various platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critics such as CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming noted that the game runs at a solid 60 FPS, with stability being a recurring theme in reviews. Quality-of-life improvements, such as faster load times, autosaves, and options to skip cinematics, were highlighted by multiple reviewers, including GamersRD and Vandal, as enhancements that significantly elevate the gameplay experience. The remaster's ability to maintain a consistent framerate and improve overall technical aspects without altering the core gameplay has been praised by critics like Digital Chumps and Multiplayer.it, further solidifying the PS5 version's reputation for delivering a smooth experience. However, there are some criticisms associated with the PS5 version, primarily regarding minor technical shortcomings. ElDesmarque pointed out that while the overall performance is stable, certain technical aspects could have been improved. Additionally, Hobby Consolas mentioned AI issues during combat that reflect the game’s age. On the Switch platform, concerns were raised about performance limitations, with Jeuxvideo.com highlighting that it is capped at 30 FPS and lower resolution compared to its PS5 counterpart. Critics like Atomix echoed this sentiment, indicating that while console versions perform well, the Switch version lags behind in terms of technical capabilities. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Tales of Graces f Remastered offers a solid technical performance, particularly on the PS5 and PC platforms, with many praising the enhancements made in the remaster. The game is described as stable and enjoyable, with quality-of-life features that streamline the experience, as noted by Inverse and RPG Site. However, the performance on the Switch is a notable drawback, limiting the experience for players on that platform. Despite some minor criticisms regarding AI and pacing issues, the remaster is generally regarded as a successful update, with critics like Noisy Pixel and Shacknews affirming that it runs smoothly across modern systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered boasts strong replay value, praised for its expansive content and customization options, with playtime exceeding 100 hours for completionists. Features like the Grade Shop and varied difficulty levels keep gameplay fresh. However, criticisms arise over lack of new content, pacing issues, and a predictable story, which may dampen repeated playthroughs. Overall, it's a worthy experience, particularly for newcomers and genre fans, despite some repetitive aspects.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay 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 replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Tales of Graces f Remastered is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's extensive content and customization options. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and GamingBolt emphasize the game's lengthy main scenario and the plethora of side quests, mini-games, and optional activities that can significantly extend playtime, with estimates reaching over 100 hours for completionists. The Grade Shop feature is frequently mentioned by critics like Digital Chumps and PlayStation Universe, as it allows players to modify their gameplay experience, enhancing replayability. Additionally, the inclusion of various difficulty levels and the New Game+ mode, noted by RPGamer and GameBlast, provide players with further incentives to revisit the game and explore different strategies or character builds. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Some reviewers, like GLHF on Sports Illustrated and Vandal, express concerns that the remaster lacks significant new content, which may deter players who are already familiar with previous versions. Additionally, pacing issues, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming, and the linear nature of the game, highlighted by Worth Playing, can make subsequent playthroughs feel repetitive or less engaging. Critics like God is a Geek also point out that the predictable story and one-dimensional characters may not provide enough motivation for players to engage in multiple playthroughs. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Tales of Graces f Remastered offers substantial replay value, especially for newcomers and fans of the genre. Many reviewers appreciate the game's depth, with its diverse activities and customization options contributing to an engaging experience. Critics like Gameliner and COGconnected reinforce that the combination of quality-of-life improvements and the Grade Shop enhances the replayability, making it appealing for both returning players and those new to the franchise. While some may find the remaster lacking in fresh content, the extensive gameplay options and engaging combat system ensure that many players will find value in revisiting the game.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Tales of Graces f Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging story, solid gameplay mechanics, and the successful modernization of a classic JRPG. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and GameGrin highlight the game's compelling narrative and replay value, affirming that it offers a great RPG experience even as it shows signs of age. Critics such as Digital Chumps and Noisy Pixel emphasize the remaster's ability to respect the original while making it accessible to new audiences, showcasing its appeal to both veterans of the series and newcomers. The enhancements in visuals and gameplay mechanics are also noted, with GamingBolt and Vandal pointing out that the remaster significantly improves the original experience, making it a worthwhile journey for fans. However, several critics also point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. For instance, GLHF on Sports Illustrated mentions that while the remaster preserves the original experience, it feels dated and lacks significant improvements. Others, like COGconnected and IGN Turkey, criticize the narrative for being predictable and clichéd, with some reviewers suggesting that the game may not be the best entry point for those unfamiliar with the series. Additionally, some technical issues, such as screen tearing, are mentioned by GamingBolt, indicating that the remaster, while polished, is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics is that Tales of Graces f Remastered is a solid and enjoyable remaster that successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing modern conveniences. Critics like CGMagazine and Player 2 recommend it for JRPG enthusiasts, asserting that it provides a comfortable and rewarding experience. While there are concerns about its dated elements and narrative weaknesses, the game is largely seen as a must-play title for fans of the genre, as highlighted by multiple reviewers who appreciate its engaging characters and combat system. Overall, the remaster is celebrated for its nostalgic value and quality-of-life improvements, making it a commendable addition to the Tales series.

TL;DR

Tales of Graces f Remastered receives mostly positive reviews, praised for its engaging story, solid gameplay, and modern updates that enhance the classic JRPG experience. Critics highlight its appeal to both veterans and newcomers, despite some dated elements and predictable narrative flaws. While technical issues persist, the remaster is recommended for JRPG fans, delivering nostalgic value and quality-of-life improvements, making it a commendable addition to the Tales series.

MONSTER

Reviews

101 reviews found

100

GameGrin

PlayStation 5

Jan 15, 2025

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

Outstanding RPG with a compelling story, engaging gameplay, and must-play status. Highly recommended.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Jan 15, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered delivers an exemplary action RPG experience with heartfelt storytelling, masterfully crafted combat system, and deep customization mechanics, making it a must-play for fans of the Tales of series and JRPG enthusiasts.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Jan 15, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is a fantastic JRPG classic with phenomenal character development, a politically charged plot, and a challenging combat system. Despite some minor issues like anime tropes and screen tearing, the remastered treatment enhances the game's quality and makes it easier to love.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jan 15, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is an incredible JRPG experience with a beautiful remaster that rivals even the latest entries in the franchise.

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Gameliner

PlayStation 5

Jan 19, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is deemed worthwhile, offering an engaging story, enjoyable combat, and appealing visuals, promising hours of entertainment.

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RPG Site

PlayStation 5

Jan 15, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is praised for its engaging story, deep gameplay mechanics, charming visuals, excellent sound design, and high replay value. Despite minor gameplay limitations, the overall experience is highly enjoyable and nostalgic for fans of the series.

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Wccftech

Jan 15, 2025

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

While the remaster doesn't add much to the original, it enhances the experience with quality-of-life improvements, making it a worthwhile purchase despite an average story.

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Siliconera

Jan 15, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is a strong entry in the franchise, with significant improvements over the original. While the story is not its strongest aspect, the combat and quality of life enhancements make it a worthwhile experience.

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Hooked Gamers

Mar 12, 2025

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

Overall, Tales of Graces f Remastered is a great game that deserves recognition, despite some flaws, particularly in combat.

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jan 16, 2025

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

Tales of Graces f Remastered is a well-executed remaster that retains the core gameplay while adding modern conveniences, making it an ideal version for newcomers and returning players alike.

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