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MONSTER

The Expanse: A Telltale Series

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Expanse: A Telltale Series
Item: The Expanse: A Telltale Series
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

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

AvailableJul 26, 2023

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

DeveloperDeck Nine Games

Overview

In the near future on the outskirts of the asteroid belt, a bloody mutiny breaks loose on the Artemis. You take the role of XO Camina Drummer, where your choices determine the fate of the ship. What will you do with the truth, Bosmang?

Elsewhere

8.1

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series earns praise for its character-driven narrative and emotional depth, particularly in its portrayal of Camina Drummer and impactful player choices. Critics commend the immersive episodic format and engaging storytelling. However, concerns arise over pacing issues and a perceived lack of stakes compared to the TV series, with some finding the narrative predictable and dialogue padded. Overall, while the game resonates emotionally and is accessible to newcomers, it may not fully satisfy die-hard fans, leaving them craving more intensity and world-building.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

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 Expanse: A Telltale Series is notably positive, with many critics praising its character-driven narrative and emotional depth. Reviewers such as Finger Guns highlight the mature and grounded storytelling, emphasizing the believable motivations and emotional moments that resonate throughout the game. Critics like Gaming Age and PlayStation Universe appreciate the game's focus on Camina Drummer and the intricate choices that players can make, which significantly impact the story's outcome. The episodic format is also noted as a strength by Generación Xbox, as it allows for a more immersive exploration of character arcs and plot developments. Additionally, the narrative is described as engaging and capable of standing on its own, with GameSpot and PCGamesN commending the emotional weight and tension that the story builds through player choices. However, several critics express concerns about the narrative's shortcomings, particularly regarding its pacing and perceived lack of stakes. Checkpoint Gaming and SomosXbox describe the story as disappointingly small-scale compared to the high-stakes plots of the TV series, with pacing issues and a lack of depth in character conversations. Critics like Multiplayer.it and New Game Network point out that while the story is coherent with the established lore, it often feels predictable and padded with unnecessary dialogue, which dilutes the overall impact. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as Destructoid and Games.cz, mention that the backstory for Drummer, while interesting, may not feel as significant or engaging as the main narrative arcs found in the television series. In summary, while The Expanse: A Telltale Series is generally well-received for its character-driven storytelling and emotional engagement, it faces criticism for pacing issues and a perceived lack of depth compared to the source material. Critics like Gamereactor UK and TechRadar Gaming acknowledge the game's accessibility for newcomers while also recognizing that it may not fully satisfy long-time fans of the franchise. The consensus suggests that while the game successfully explores the complexities of its characters and their decisions, it struggles to reach the same narrative heights as the acclaimed TV series, leaving some players wanting more in terms of stakes and world-building.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series offers enhanced exploration and improved mechanics, earning praise for its branching dialogue and zero-gravity elements. However, many critics argue the gameplay is repetitive and overly simplistic, often feeling like a "walking simulator" with minimal interaction. While it appeals to fans of narrative-driven games, its reliance on quick-time events and linear design leaves some players seeking more dynamic engagement feeling disappointed. Overall, it’s a mixed bag with both advancements and significant shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Expanse: A Telltale Series has garnered praise from several critics for its advancements over previous Telltale titles. Finger Guns highlights the increased exploration and larger level design, which adds depth to the experience. Gaming Age echoes this sentiment, noting the freedom of movement and hidden interactions that enhance player engagement. Critics like Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe appreciate the branching dialogue choices and action scenes, with the latter pointing out a reduction in quick-time events compared to earlier games, suggesting a more streamlined approach. Additionally, the zero-gravity mechanics have been recognized as a standout feature, with GameGrin and Gamereactor UK praising how they enrich exploration and create a unique gameplay experience. However, many reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay. Critics such as SomosXbox and New Game Network describe the gameplay as repetitive and limited, likening it to a "walking simulator" with minimal interaction. The reliance on quick-time events and simplistic puzzles has drawn criticism, with CD-Action and Multiplayer.it noting that while the narrative remains engaging, the gameplay lacks depth and innovation. Furthermore, several critics have mentioned issues with pacing and the overall linear nature of the gameplay, with Eurogamer Germany stating that the mechanics feel simplistic and disappointingly focused on narrative rather than engaging gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while The Expanse: A Telltale Series represents a step forward in some aspects of gameplay, it still adheres closely to the traditional Telltale formula, which may not satisfy all players. Critics like Cultured Vultures and TechRadar Gaming highlight the balance of exploration and decision-making as a positive, yet many others emphasize the limitations in interactivity and depth. The game appears to be a mixed bag, appealing to fans of narrative-driven experiences but potentially leaving those seeking more dynamic gameplay feeling underwhelmed. Ultimately, while the game introduces some new mechanics and improvements, it struggles with repetitiveness and a lack of engaging challenges, leading to a somewhat polarized reception among critics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series shines with impressive visuals, enhanced character animations, and immersive environments that create a captivating space atmosphere. Critics praise its polished art style that marries cartoonish and realistic elements, marking it as Telltale's best-looking game to date. However, there are criticisms of low texture detail, rough animations, and some repetitive environments that hold it back. Overall, the game is a significant visual leap for Telltale, delivering a compelling experience despite some technical flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual 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 graphics and visual design.

The reviews for the graphics and visual design of The Expanse: A Telltale Series reveal a generally positive sentiment, highlighting several key strengths that enhance the gaming experience. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and Destructoid praise the game for its impressive visuals, noting improvements in character animations and high geometric detail, particularly in zero-gravity environments. The environments are frequently described as immersive and well-crafted, with Metro GameCentral and Multiplayer.it emphasizing the game's ability to create a captivating space atmosphere. The use of a polished art style that balances cartoonish and realistic elements is also well-received, as noted by IGN, which helps to avoid the uncanny valley effect while still delivering visually appealing vistas. Despite these commendable aspects, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's visual execution. Several reviewers, including Finger Guns and Checkpoint Gaming, point out that while character models have improved, they still fall short of perfection, with some elements suffering from low texture detail and a lack of distinctiveness in environments. Critics like GamesRadar+ and TechRadar Gaming mention issues with rough animations and visual bugs that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the environments are sometimes described as repetitive, particularly in the context of grey space stations, which can limit the visual diversity that players might expect from a game set in a rich sci-fi universe. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Expanse: A Telltale Series represents a significant step forward for Telltale in terms of visual fidelity, with many reviewers acknowledging it as the studio's best-looking game to date. Critics like Worth Playing and CGMagazine highlight the successful blend of classic Telltale art style with modern enhancements, resulting in a visually engaging experience that complements the narrative. While there are valid concerns regarding certain technical aspects and character designs, the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere and its impressive environmental design largely outweigh these shortcomings, making it a notable entry in the Telltale catalog.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series impresses with strong voice acting, especially from Cara Gee, and effective original music that enhances immersion. However, critics noted significant audio issues, including poor mixing and distracting glitches, which undermine the overall experience. The game excels in emotional resonance but falters in execution, resulting in a mixed reception for its sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

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 Expanse: A Telltale Series have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly regarding the voice acting and the incorporation of original music from the series. Critics like Gaming Age and Generación Xbox highlighted the strong performances, especially from Cara Gee, who reprises her role as Camina Drummer, noting that her voice work significantly enhances the game's overall sound design. Additionally, the presence of the show's theme song and other original tracks was appreciated for contributing to the immersive atmosphere, with Games.cz and VideoGamer mentioning how the music and sound effects elevate the emotional weight of the narrative and action sequences. However, the reviews also pointed out several shortcomings in the sound design. Metro GameCentral criticized the audio mixing as "bizarrely poor," which detracted from key scenes, while Gfinity noted issues like microphone clipping that could be distracting. Twinfinite echoed similar sentiments, describing the sound design as inconsistent, with some strong performances overshadowed by audio glitches and unmemorable ambient music. Furthermore, Adventure Game Hotspot mentioned that while the sound effects were solid, they were occasionally absent, indicating a lack of consistency in the overall sound experience. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a divided sentiment regarding the sound design and music in The Expanse: A Telltale Series. While many reviewers, such as IGN Portugal and PCGamesN, praised the voice acting and its emotional resonance, others pointed out significant technical flaws that hindered the experience. This dichotomy suggests that while the game has a strong foundation in its character performances and thematic music, it struggles with execution in terms of sound quality and mixing, leading to an overall impression that is both commendable and flawed.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Expanse: A Telltale Series is mostly praised, especially Cara Gee's standout performance as Camina Drummer, which adds depth and emotional range. Critics commend the cast's authenticity and connection to the TV series, enhancing the immersive narrative. However, some reviews point out inconsistencies in the quality of secondary characters' performances. Overall, while there are minor critiques, the voice acting is viewed as a strong asset to the game's storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in The Expanse: A Telltale Series has received a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the standout performances, particularly that of Cara Gee as Camina Drummer. Critics from outlets like Gaming Age and PlayStation Universe have highlighted Gee's return, noting her ability to convey a complex character filled with depth, wit, and emotional range. The overall cast has been described as eclectic and memorable, contributing to the game's narrative strength. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral emphasized the authenticity of the character dialogue, which resonates well with fans of the TV series, further enhancing the immersive experience. However, not all reviews were uniformly positive. Some critics, like Finger Guns, pointed out that the voice acting could be improved, suggesting that while the performances were generally strong, there were areas that fell short. Additionally, a few reviewers mentioned inconsistencies in the performances of secondary characters, which could detract from the overall experience. For instance, Twinfinite noted that while Gee's portrayal was commendable, other performances varied significantly in quality, from impressive to merely passable. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a strong point of the game. The majority of reviewers, including those from GameSpot and IGN, have highlighted how the voice performances enhance character depth and narrative engagement, particularly through Cara Gee's portrayal of Drummer. While there are some criticisms regarding the inconsistency of certain characters, the overwhelming sentiment is that the voice acting contributes positively to the game's atmosphere and storytelling, making it a notable aspect of the experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series impresses with solid technical performance across PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for smooth gameplay and improved visuals, thanks to Unreal Engine 4. However, the PC version faces mixed reviews due to lingering bugs and control issues. While the game marks a significant step up for Telltale, it still has technical hiccups that players should note, especially on PC.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech 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 technical performance.

The technical performance of The Expanse: A Telltale Series has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the PS5, critics like Gaming Age and Metro GameCentral praised the game for running smoothly without the visual bugs that plagued earlier Telltale titles. Metro GameCentral highlighted the improved character models and visuals, marking this as the most polished Telltale experience yet. Similarly, PlayStation Universe noted the game’s use of Unreal Engine 4, calling it the best-looking title from Telltale, despite some minor environmental texture issues. On the Xbox Series X, reviewers such as Generación Xbox and Movies Games and Tech commended the game for its high resolution and stable performance at 60 fps, with Generación Xbox mentioning the improvements in graphics and animations. Overall, the Xbox version appears to deliver a solid technical experience. On PC, several critics, including GameOver.gr and CGMagazine, reported significant improvements in technical performance compared to previous Telltale games, with GameSpew noting a polished performance thanks to the involvement of Deck Nine. Despite the positive feedback, several technical issues were reported across all platforms. On PS5, Metro GameCentral pointed out problems with audio mixing, which detracted from the overall experience. On the Xbox Series X, SomosXbox mentioned occasional bugs that required restarting from checkpoints and losing collectibles, which could frustrate players. Meanwhile, on PC, the critiques were more varied; while some reviewers like GameSpot and VideoGamer noted smooth performance, others, such as Adventure Game Hotspot and PCGamesN, highlighted rough mechanical issues, including dialogue interaction problems and movement controls. Eurogamer Germany also pointed out limitations like the inability to skip scenes and distant save points, which could lead to player frustration. The overall consensus among critics is that The Expanse: A Telltale Series represents a significant technical improvement for Telltale Games, with notable advancements in graphics and performance across platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally praised for their stability and visual fidelity, the PC version received mixed feedback due to lingering technical issues, particularly concerning controls and interactions. Critics like Worth Playing and TechRadar Gaming acknowledged the smoother performance on PC, but they also noted occasional glitches and immersion-breaking moments. Overall, while the game shows promise and improvement, it still carries some technical baggage that players should be aware of, especially on PC.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series garners mixed reviews for replay value. Critics praise its branching storylines and short episodes that invite multiple playthroughs. However, many lament its linearity and predictable outcomes, particularly for fans of the TV series. Key decisions are mostly concentrated in the final chapter, making earlier episodes feel less impactful. While the game offers some replay incentives, its structure and pacing may ultimately limit the depth of the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Expanse: A Telltale Series highlight several positive aspects that reviewers appreciate. Many critics, such as Finger Guns and Gaming Age, emphasize the game’s ability to offer different story outcomes based on player decisions, which inherently encourages multiple playthroughs. Metro GameCentral notes that the short length of each episode makes it more palatable for players looking to experience the game again. Additionally, Generación Xbox and Movies Games and Tech point out that the variety of choices and collectibles enhances the game’s longevity, suggesting that players can explore different paths and outcomes, making the experience feel fresh with each run. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value that detract from its overall appeal. Several reviewers, including Destructoid and Eurogamer Germany, argue that the game has limited replay value due to its linear nature and the predictability of outcomes, especially for fans of the original TV series. Critics like SomosXbox and Gfinity also mention that while the game encourages replayability, the majority of impactful decisions are concentrated in the final chapter, which may discourage players from replaying earlier episodes. Furthermore, New Game Network highlights the slow pacing and the necessity of re-experiencing dialogue, which can make replaying feel tedious. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed. While many reviewers acknowledge the potential for replayability through meaningful choices, there is a significant concern about the limitations imposed by the game's structure and predictability. Critics like GameSpot and VideoGamer affirm that the choice-driven narrative encourages exploration of different outcomes, yet others, such as TechRadar Gaming and TheGamer, express uncertainty about the overall replay value due to the restricted number of major decisions. Thus, while The Expanse: A Telltale Series offers some replay incentives, the execution and narrative structure may ultimately limit the depth of replayability that players can expect.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding The Expanse: A Telltale Series is largely positive, with many critics acknowledging the game as a commendable return to form for Telltale Games. Critics like Gaming Age highlight the polished execution and emotional depth, suggesting that it successfully re-establishes Telltale's reputation in the adventure genre. PlayStation Universe and Push Square also commend the game for its engaging characters and improved visuals, while ZTGD and GameSpot praise its strong narrative and character development. The game is seen as a solid adaptation of the television show and books, appealing to fans who appreciate the franchise's lore and storytelling style. However, despite the praise, several reviewers point out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as Metro GameCentral and SomosXbox express concerns about the game's linearity and lack of innovation in gameplay mechanics, which can lead to a feeling of stagnation compared to genre frontrunners. New Game Network and Checkpoint Gaming mention pacing issues and a lack of depth in character development, which may hinder the experience for players unfamiliar with the source material. Additionally, some reviews, like that of IGN, note that while the narrative is compelling, the gameplay mechanics struggle to keep pace with modern standards. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a strong narrative-driven game that resonates well with fans of the franchise, though it does exhibit notable flaws in gameplay depth and pacing. Critics like Cultured Vultures and GameSpew acknowledge its appeal to both fans and newcomers, while others, such as CD-Action and Eurogamer Germany, emphasize that the game is primarily recommended for those familiar with the series. Overall, while the game showcases Telltale's strengths in storytelling, it also highlights areas for improvement as the studio seeks to evolve its gameplay design.

TL;DR

The Expanse: A Telltale Series earns praise for its emotional storytelling and strong character development, marking a solid comeback for Telltale Games. Critics laud its engaging narrative and stunning visuals, making it a hit with franchise fans. However, it stumbles with linear gameplay, pacing issues, and a lack of innovation, leaving some players wanting more. While it captivates loyal fans, newcomers may find its depth lacking. Overall, it’s a compelling narrative experience, but Telltale must address gameplay weaknesses to stay relevant.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

GameSpot

Aug 1, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a masterclass in narrative design, providing a refreshing change from typical RPGs with its focus on character depth and meaningful choices.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Sep 15, 2023

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

Must-play game with minor frustration about short chapters

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Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a solid attempt to re-establish Telltale as the king of adventure games. It hits release deadlines, has a polished game, and will likely be enjoyed by fans of the show or Telltale's prior efforts.

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IGN Portugal

Sep 19, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a significant evolution in Telltale's game design, offering an emotional experience with stunning visuals and impactful choices.

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ZTGD

Xbox Series X

Sep 26, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a fantastic companion piece to The Expanse show, with strong storytelling and engaging gameplay. Fans of Telltale's previous work should not miss this series.

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Worth Playing

Aug 15, 2023

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

Overall, The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a strong return for Telltale Games, appealing to both fans of the genre and the TV show, with a promising start.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Sep 25, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a hugely enjoyable adaptation of the television show and books, with engaging characters and improved visuals. The final episode and plodding pace are minor drawbacks.

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GameOver.gr

Sep 23, 2023

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

Overall, The Expanse: A Telltale Series is considered an excellent addition to Telltale's portfolio, standing out with its engaging story and improved technical execution.

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Cultured Vultures

Sep 26, 2023

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

Overall, Telltale’s The Expanse is a successful reinvention of their mechanics, appealing to both fans of the source material and newcomers, despite some shortcomings.

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VideoGamer

Jul 25, 2023

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

The Expanse: A Telltale Series is a compelling addition to Telltale's catalogue, with a strong narrative, engaging characters, and immersive design, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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