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The Alters

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Alters
Item: The Alters
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableJun 13, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PC

Developer11 bit studios

Overview

To survive on a lonely planet, Jan creates alternate versions of himself - the alters. Each alter’s personality is shaped by Jan’s various life paths. The Alters begs a simple question surrounding life-changing moments and the decisions people make: What if…?

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Alters receives rave reviews for its deep narrative and exploration of identity, choice, and survival. Critics praise the emotional complexity of protagonist Jan Dolski's interactions with his clones and the game's cinematic storytelling. However, some caution that the intricate narrative may overwhelm players, and a few themes could be explored more deeply. Overall, the game is hailed as a thought-provoking experience that resonates emotionally, securing its status as a standout title in modern gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Alters is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its deep narrative and thematic exploration. Reviewers such as Critical Hits and Digital Trends highlight the game’s ability to engage players with profound philosophical questions surrounding identity and choice. The protagonist, Jan Dolski, and his interactions with his clones are frequently noted as compelling, with many critics appreciating the emotional depth and psychological implications of these relationships. ElDesmarque specifically commends the cinematic approach of the prologue, while IGN Benelux emphasizes the rich storytelling experience created by the unique personalities of the clones. The game’s focus on survival and self-discovery, as articulated by Stevivor and Push Square, further enhances its narrative appeal, making it a thought-provoking experience for players. Despite the strong praise, some critiques have emerged regarding the complexity of the narrative. GameBlast mentions that while the narrative adds depth to gameplay, it may also introduce challenges for players who might find the concept of managing multiple clones and their differing life paths somewhat overwhelming. Additionally, while the emotional beats are generally impactful, a few critics suggest that the depth of exploration into certain themes could have been expanded further. For instance, while GRYOnline.pl acknowledges the exploration of identity and life choices, it hints at a potential lack of clarity in how these themes are fully realized throughout the gameplay. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Alters delivers a compelling and engaging narrative that effectively explores themes of identity, choice, and survival. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Deutschland and GamersRD, agree that the story is well-written and emotionally resonant, contributing significantly to the overall gaming experience. While there are minor critiques regarding the complexity of the narrative, they do not detract from the overall positive reception. The game stands out as a thought-provoking journey that invites players to reflect on their own choices and identities, solidifying its place as a noteworthy title in contemporary gaming.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Alters impresses with its captivating mix of resource management, survival mechanics, and emotional storytelling, drawing praise for its moral dilemmas and strategic depth. Critics celebrate its engaging gameplay and unique clone abilities, but caution that it can become repetitive and overwhelming. Despite these flaws, the game's urgency and innovative blend of systems keep players hooked, establishing it as a standout in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Alters has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its intricate blend of resource management, survival mechanics, and emotional storytelling. Reviewers like Critical Hits and ElDesmarque highlight the engaging nature of the gameplay, particularly noting the moral dilemmas and emotional revelations that enhance the player's experience. Critics such as IGN Deutschland and Push Square also commend the seamless integration of exploration, base management, and the unique abilities of clones, which adds a strategic layer to the gameplay. The interconnected systems and mechanics, as mentioned by GameBlast, require players to employ both tactical reasoning and social skills, making the gameplay feel robust and multifaceted. However, several critics point out that the gameplay can become repetitive and monotonous over time. Digital Trends notes that while the game introduces unique elements like time constraints and relocation due to radiation, the overall formula can feel familiar and repetitive by the end. Similarly, GRYOnline.pl mentions that the gameplay can become monotonous, despite the strategic depth offered by the unique abilities of each clone. Critics like TheSixthAxis and GamersRD express that while the mechanics provide depth, they can also be overwhelming, potentially detracting from the overall enjoyment as players struggle to balance multiple systems. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Alters offers a compelling and engaging gameplay experience that successfully combines various elements of survival and resource management. While there are concerns regarding repetitiveness and the potential for overwhelming mechanics, the emotional depth and unique strategic elements keep players invested. Critics such as IGN Spain and WellPlayed emphasize the urgency and tension present in the gameplay, suggesting that these factors contribute significantly to the game's appeal. Ultimately, The Alters is recognized for its innovative approach to gameplay, even as it grapples with some common pitfalls of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Alters impresses with stunning visuals and immersive environments, earning praise for its art direction and sci-fi aesthetics. Critics highlight gorgeous landscapes and effective lighting, but significant flaws—like blurriness, stiff animations, and navigational issues—hinder the experience. While the game offers a compelling visual world, technical shortcomings hold it back from greatness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual 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 graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Alters is predominantly positive, with several critics highlighting the impressive aesthetics and immersive environments. Critical Hits praises the game's "impressive graphics and art direction," noting the well-designed maps that effectively convey the game's aesthetic, albeit with some lack of variety. Similarly, IGN Spain commends the visuals, emphasizing the strong lighting effects and aggressive artistic design that encapsulates the hostile nature of the planet. GamersRD also acknowledges the well-crafted desolate planet environment, which is further supported by GRYOnline.pl's observation of a detailed aesthetic that combines futuristic elements with a raw planetary backdrop, enhancing immersion. Push Square adds to this positive sentiment by describing the game as featuring "gorgeous sci-fi vistas," which contribute to a stunning visual experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the graphics that detract from the overall experience. ElDesmarque points out that some graphical adjustments are lacking, which negatively impacts the visual experience. GamersRD raises concerns about visual effects, specifically blurriness, that can detract from immersion. Additionally, IGN Deutschland mentions stiff facial animations that lack liveliness, which can hinder character engagement. WellPlayed also notes that while the environmental design is detailed, the 2.5D perspective can make navigation cumbersome, further complicating the visual experience. In conclusion, while the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of The Alters' graphics and visual design, there are significant caveats that cannot be overlooked. Critics like Critical Hits and IGN Spain celebrate the game's strong artistic direction and immersive environments, but others, such as ElDesmarque and GamersRD, highlight deficiencies in graphical execution that can diminish the overall experience. Ultimately, The Alters presents a visually compelling world that is both beautiful and threatening, yet it is marred by certain technical shortcomings that prevent it from reaching its full potential.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Alters impresses with standout sound design and a haunting soundtrack that enhances immersion, particularly noted by Digital Trends and GamersRD. Critics praise Alex Jordan's musical performance and the atmospheric score, but GRYOnline.pl highlights lackluster dialogue and inconsistent voice acting that dampen emotional impact. Overall, while the game's audio elements shine, there are critical gaps that need addressing for a fully immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of The Alters have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting several standout elements. Digital Trends particularly praises a musical number performed by Alex Jordan, noting it as a highlight of the game that enhances the overall experience. Additionally, GamersRD commends the well-composed soundtrack, emphasizing its effectiveness in creating an atmosphere of isolation that aligns with the game's themes. IGN Spain echoes this sentiment, stating that the score evokes feelings of melancholy and tension, which further enriches the narrative. Furthermore, Critical Hits appreciates the well-localized subtitles, which, despite the absence of Portuguese voice acting, contribute positively to the overall experience for non-English-speaking players. However, not all reviews are entirely positive. GRYOnline.pl points out that while the sound design is adequate, the dialogues lack dynamism and emotional depth, which could hinder player immersion. This sentiment is somewhat echoed by other critics who note that while the voice acting adds distinct personalities to the clones, there are inconsistencies in the emotional delivery. For instance, IGN Deutschland acknowledges the excellent voice acting from Alex Jordan but implies that it may not be uniformly matched across all characters, potentially detracting from the emotional weight of the story. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Alters features commendable aspects of sound design and music, there are notable shortcomings that impact the game's immersive qualities. Critics like Digital Trends and GamersRD highlight the strengths of the soundtrack and specific performances, while others like GRYOnline.pl raise concerns about dialogue depth and consistency. This mixed reception indicates that while the game has a solid auditory foundation, there is room for improvement in delivering a fully immersive experience through sound and voice acting.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Alters is largely praised, especially Alex Jordan's standout performance that adds depth to the characters. Critics highlight its emotional resonance and immersive quality, though some note issues with dynamic delivery and the lack of Portuguese voice acting. Overall, despite minor criticisms, the voice work is seen as a key strength that enhances the game's narrative and player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in The Alters has received a generally positive reception from critics, with many praising the performance of Alex Jordan. Reviewers from Digital Trends and GamersRD specifically commend Jordan for his ability to convey distinct personalities among the various clones, effectively adding depth to the characters. IGN Spain echoes this sentiment, noting that the commendable voice acting contributes positively to the immersive experience of the game. TheSixthAxis also highlights the emotional depth brought to the narrative through the strong performances, suggesting that the voice acting is a standout feature of the game. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. GRYOnline.pl points out that while the voice acting is well executed, the lack of dynamic delivery in dialogues detracts from the overall experience. This sentiment is subtly echoed by IGN Deutschland, which acknowledges the standout performances yet notes limitations in the dialogue presentation. Additionally, Critical Hits mentions the absence of Portuguese voice acting, which may alienate a segment of players who prefer localized audio experiences, despite the good localization of subtitles. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Alters is a strong point, particularly due to Alex Jordan's performance, which effectively brings the characters to life. While there are minor criticisms regarding dialogue delivery and localization issues, the positive remarks about character depth and emotional resonance suggest that the voice acting significantly enhances the game's narrative. Critics like IGN and GamersRD reinforce the notion that, despite some shortcomings, the voice work is a vital aspect of the game's appeal, contributing to an engaging and immersive experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Alters on PS5 sparks mixed reviews: some praise its solid performance and balance between visuals and gameplay, while others criticize significant technical issues like bugs and continuity errors that disrupt immersion. The game shows promise but struggles with polish, leading to varied player experiences.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of The Alters on the PS5 has garnered a mix of opinions from various critics. On the positive side, IGN Spain highlighted that the game performs well on the PS5, providing both fidelity and performance modes, which enhances the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, IGN Deutschland noted that while there are minor technical issues, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience. TheSixthAxis also mentioned that despite some glitches, the game is finely balanced and well-crafted, suggesting a solid foundation in its technical execution. These perspectives indicate that the PS5 version manages to deliver a generally smooth gameplay experience, with some critics appreciating the balance between performance and visual fidelity. Conversely, several reviewers pointed out notable technical shortcomings. ElDesmarque criticized the immersion due to continuity errors with the alters, which can disrupt the player's engagement with the game. GamersRD echoed this sentiment, stating that while the game performs adequately, it does not impress technically, particularly with some visual effects that detract from the overall presentation. GRYOnline.pl raised concerns about bugs related to choice tracking and issues with the Polish language version, which could lead to player frustration. WellPlayed also highlighted various technical issues, including navigation problems and untranslated text, which collectively detract from the overall experience. These criticisms suggest that while the game has a solid foundation, it is marred by several technical flaws that impact immersion and gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of The Alters on the PS5 is a mixed bag. While some reviewers, like IGN Spain and TheSixthAxis, found the game to be well-executed with minor issues, others, such as WellPlayed and GamersRD, pointed out significant technical problems that hinder the experience. The presence of bugs, continuity errors, and visual shortcomings creates a divide in opinions, indicating that while the game has potential, it falls short in delivering a polished technical performance across the board. This disparity suggests that players may have varied experiences based on their expectations and tolerance for technical imperfections.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics are largely praising The Alters for its strong replay value, driven by branching narratives and the ability to create varied versions of protagonist Jan. While some note frustrations with a lack of challenges and potential pacing issues, the consensus is that the game delivers a rich, engaging experience that rewards exploration and experimentation in storytelling. Ideal for players who love narrative depth!

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Alters is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, including ElDesmarque and GameBlast, highlight the game's high replayability due to its branching narratives and the various outcomes that stem from player decisions. The ability to create different versions of the protagonist, Jan, and the unique nature of the alters further enriches the experience, encouraging players to engage in multiple playthroughs. Critics like IGN Spain and Stevivor emphasize that the complexity of managing the alters and the impact of choices on the narrative significantly enhance the game's longevity, making it an intriguing option for those who enjoy exploring different paths and strategies. However, some critics express concerns about certain aspects of the game's replay value. GRYOnline.pl mentions that while the game offers replayability through unexpected consequences, the lack of significant challenges might disappoint some players. Similarly, IGN Benelux points out that although there are elements of replayability, the need to replay days after failures can lead to frustration, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in providing diverse narrative experiences, it may not cater to everyone’s expectations regarding challenge and pacing. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that The Alters offers a rich and engaging replay experience. The majority of reviewers, including Critical Hits and TheSixthAxis, agree that the game is designed with replayability in mind, allowing players to make different choices in subsequent playthroughs. This sentiment is echoed across various reviews, reinforcing the idea that The Alters is a game that encourages exploration and experimentation, making it a compelling choice for players who appreciate narrative depth and moral complexity.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding The Alters among critics is predominantly positive, highlighting its unique blend of emotional storytelling and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Critical Hits and IGN Deutschland praised the game for its profound narrative that encourages players to reflect on identity and empathy. Critics noted the game's ambitious concept, with IGN Benelux calling it one of the most original and engaging games of the year. The combination of exploration, strategy, and emotional depth was also emphasized by IGN Spain, who described it as a standout title from 11 Bit Studios. Many critics, including Stevivor and Push Square, highlighted the game's potential for game of the year recognition, underscoring its compelling nature. However, despite its many strengths, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks. GameBlast rated the game a solid 7.5, indicating frustrations particularly related to exploration and difficulty. GRYOnline.pl mentioned that while the game presents interesting ideas, it may not satisfy players seeking deeper challenges and emotional engagement. Critics like TheSixthAxis echoed this sentiment, noting that the game can be overwhelmingly stressful, which may detract from the enjoyment for some players. Additionally, some reviews mentioned technical shortcomings that could impact the overall experience, as highlighted by GamersRD and WellPlayed. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Alters is a very good game, marked by its innovative storytelling and engaging mechanics. While it does have its share of frustrations and technical issues, the overall experience is deemed worthwhile, with many reviewers recommending it for its thought-provoking themes and unique gameplay. The combination of positive reviews from sources like Digital Trends and Stevivor, alongside constructive criticism from others, paints a picture of a game that, despite its challenges, offers a memorable and impactful experience that resonates with players.

TL;DR

The Alters garners positive reviews for its emotional storytelling and engaging gameplay, with many critics calling it a standout title and potential game of the year. However, it faces criticism for exploration challenges and some technical issues, which may detract from the experience. Overall, it's a memorable game worth playing despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

135 reviews found

100

Stevivor

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is highly recommended for its unique storytelling and engaging gameplay, making it a strong contender for game of the year.

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IGN Deutschland

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is a masterful blend of genres with a profound narrative and engaging gameplay, making it one of the best games of the year despite minor technical flaws.

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IGN Benelux

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is praised as one of the most original and engaging games, despite its challenging gameplay and heavy themes. It stands out for its ambitious concept and execution by a small studio.

IGN Spain

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is a standout title from 11 Bit Studios, blending exploration, strategy, and emotional storytelling into a compelling experience. It successfully engages players with its unique mechanics and narrative depth.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

Despite its brilliance and engaging mechanics, the game can be overwhelmingly stressful, making it a challenging experience that some may find unenjoyable.

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ElDesmarque

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is a unique and engaging title that successfully combines narrative depth with gameplay mechanics, despite some graphical and technical issues.

Push Square

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is described as 11 Bit Studios' magnum opus, a tense and thoughtful game that challenges players to reflect on their choices, making it a standout title.

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Critical Hits

PlayStation 5

Jun 13, 2025

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

The Alters is a unique blend of management and emotional storytelling, offering a profound experience that challenges players to reflect on identity and empathy, making it memorable despite its potential frustrations.

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Digital Trends

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is a compelling sci-fi survival game that successfully combines deep narrative elements with engaging gameplay mechanics, despite some repetitiveness in the survival loop. It offers a memorable experience that encourages players to reflect on philosophical questions.

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WellPlayed

PlayStation 5

Jun 12, 2025

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

The Alters is an ambitious and engaging game that successfully expands on the developer's previous work, despite some navigation frustrations and technical issues. It offers a thought-provoking experience with a mix of humor and survival elements.

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