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MONSTER

The Forgotten City

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

2021

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, RPG, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableJul 28, 2021

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperModern Storyteller

Overview

The Forgotten City is a mystery adventure game of exploration and deduction, and a re-imagining of the critically acclaimed mod of the same name. Combat is an option, but violence will only get you so far. Only by questioning an intertwined community of colorful characters, cleverly exploiting the time loop, and making difficult moral choices can you hope to solve this epic mystery. Here, your decisions matter. The fate of the city is in your hands.

Elsewhere

7.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Forgotten City receives rave reviews for its intricate narrative and engaging themes, praised for its compelling storytelling set in a mysterious Roman city and effective time loop mechanics. Critics commend its philosophical depth, particularly around the 'Golden Rule,' but note shortcomings in character development and occasional narrative inconsistencies. Despite minor critiques, the story stands out as one of the game's strongest features, making it a must-play in the adventure genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

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 Forgotten City is overwhelmingly positive, with a majority of critics praising its intricate narrative and engaging themes. Reviewers such as Noisy Pixel and Xbox Tavern highlight the game's compelling storytelling set in a mysterious Roman city, enriched by clever writing that balances elements of horror and humor. The time loop mechanic is frequently mentioned as a significant aspect that deepens the narrative, allowing players to explore multiple paths and endings, as noted by GameMAG and Game Informer. Critics like IGN and Gaming Nexus commend the moral quandaries presented in the story, emphasizing the philosophical discussions surrounding the 'Golden Rule' and the consequences of breaking it. The narrative's ability to intertwine ancient myths with modern moral dilemmas has captivated many, making it a standout feature of the game. However, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the storytelling. While the narrative is praised for its complexity, reviewers like Slant Magazine and Riot Pixels noted that character development could be deeper, suggesting that the focus on philosophical themes sometimes comes at the expense of character depth. Hardcore Gamer mentioned that while the writing is engaging, some plot twists may feel ridiculous, indicating a potential inconsistency in narrative execution. Additionally, despite the well-crafted dialogues, a few critics, including GameSpot and GameMAG, expressed that the balance between guiding players and leaving them perplexed could be improved, hinting at moments where the story might feel overwhelming. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Forgotten City offers a rich and thought-provoking narrative experience that effectively engages players through its time loop mechanics and moral dilemmas. Critics like TheGamer and Eurogamer Italy emphasize the captivating nature of the story, which is filled with twists and intricate plots that keep players invested. Overall, while there are minor critiques regarding character development and narrative clarity, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's storytelling is one of its strongest aspects, making it a noteworthy title in the adventure genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City delivers a captivating narrative and innovative time-loop mechanic that encourages exploration and meaningful choices, earning praise from critics. However, its clunky combat and limited gameplay mechanics detract from the overall experience, making it feel simplistic. The game shines in story and character interactions but is best for players who favor narrative over action, with suggestions for improving or removing combat entirely.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Forgotten City has garnered praise for its engaging narrative structure, exploration, and innovative time-loop mechanic. Many critics, such as GameSpot and IGN, highlight the importance of dialogue and character interactions, which allow players to gather evidence and solve puzzles in a meaningful way. The game encourages exploration and offers a non-linear storytelling experience, as noted by Adventure Gamers and Eurogamer Italy, where players can approach tasks creatively and make significant choices that affect the outcome. The time-loop mechanic is particularly lauded for enhancing the gameplay experience, as it allows players to retain knowledge and items across loops, fostering a sense of experimentation and replayability, as mentioned by Gamer.nl and Multiplayer.it. However, the gameplay is not without its shortcomings. Critics like Push Square and GameSpace express concerns about the combat mechanics, describing them as clunky and poorly integrated into the overall experience. The combat is often seen as a distraction from the core gameplay, which focuses on dialogue and exploration. Additionally, several reviewers, including New Game Network and Slant Magazine, point out that while the game excels in narrative and character interactions, it lacks depth in mechanics and features limited interactive items, which can lead to a somewhat simplistic and primitive feel in terms of gameplay complexity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Forgotten City offers a rich narrative experience with strong dialogue and exploration elements, it suffers from a lack of engaging combat and depth in gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers appreciate the game's focus on story and character development, with a few noting that the combat and action elements could be improved or even removed altogether, as suggested by Push Square. The innovative time-loop mechanic is a standout feature that enhances the overall experience, but the mixed reception of combat indicates a desire for a more cohesive gameplay experience. Critics like WellPlayed and Hardcore Gamer emphasize that the game is best suited for players who prioritize narrative and exploration over action-oriented gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City dazzles with its immersive, authentically Roman visuals, earning praise for its stunning environments and intricate design. However, it stumbles with technical flaws like awkward character animations and outdated graphics that hinder the experience. Critics appreciate the narrative and atmospheric depth but highlight the need for significant improvements in visual fidelity. In short: a captivating world with a few glaring issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

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 Forgotten City is a mixed bag, with several positive aspects highlighted by critics. Many reviewers praised the game's immersive environment, particularly its authentic representation of a Roman city. For instance, IGN noted the "incredibly detailed and captivating" visuals, emphasizing the architectural blend of Roman, Greek, Egyptian, and Sumerian styles, which contributes to a "lived-in and real" world. Critics like Stevivor and WellPlayed echoed similar sentiments, describing the city as "visually stunning" and "beautifully crafted," with attention to detail that enhances the overall atmosphere. The environments were often characterized as vibrant and full of life, with unique areas that encourage exploration, as noted by GamingTrend. However, the criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design are significant and consistent across various reviews. Many critics pointed out technical flaws such as character animations that are often described as "janky" or lacking in fluidity. GameMAG described the graphics as "acceptable but outdated," while Push Square highlighted issues like scenery not spawning properly and characters suspended in mid-air, which detracts from the visual experience. RPG Fan and Riot Pixels also mentioned hitching and texture loading issues, indicating that while the environments may be clear and reasonably detailed, they do not impress due to these shortcomings. The character models, in particular, received negative feedback for their lack of realism and depth, contributing to an "uncanny valley effect," as noted by BaziCenter. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Forgotten City successfully creates an engaging and immersive environment reflective of ancient Rome, it suffers from various technical issues and outdated graphics that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Critics like Meristation and Game Informer acknowledged the impressive environmental design but pointed out that character animations and expressions could use significant improvement. Despite its shortcomings, many reviewers agree that the game's strong narrative and atmospheric setting provide a compelling experience, making it a noteworthy title for players who prioritize story and exploration over visual fidelity.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City’s sound design and music are widely praised for stellar voice acting and an immersive orchestral score that enhances the game’s atmosphere and narrative. Critics highlight the high quality of performances, despite some noting shortcomings in environmental sound effects and music variety, particularly during combat. Overall, the audio elements are deemed integral to creating an engaging gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

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 Forgotten City have received widespread acclaim from critics, with many highlighting the exceptional quality of voice acting and the immersive soundtrack. Reviewers from various platforms, including Nintendo Life and XboxAddict, praised the voice performances as "stellar" and "professional," noting that the cast effectively brings the characters to life with personality and depth. The orchestral score, as described by critics like RPG Fan and Riot Pixels, enhances the atmosphere significantly, complementing the game's narrative and emotional moments. Critics such as GameOver.gr and GamingTrend emphasized that the music is well-composed and adds to the overall experience, creating an engaging backdrop that supports both tense and serene scenes. Despite the overall positive reception, some critiques pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design. Vandal noted that while the music was well-executed, the sound effects for environmental interactions felt lacking. Similarly, GameSpace mentioned that the music, although pleasant, suffers from a lack of variety, particularly during combat sequences. Additionally, some critics, such as SomosXbox, expressed concerns about the use of English accents for Latin-speaking characters, which could detract from immersion. While the soundtrack is generally praised, MGG Spain pointed out that some tracks lack depth and epic quality, indicating a need for more dynamic compositions. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of The Forgotten City. The majority of reviewers agree that the voice acting and orchestral score significantly enhance the game's immersive experience, with many citing the quality of performances and composition as standout features. While there are a few criticisms regarding sound effects and the occasional lack of variety in the music, these do not overshadow the overall sentiment that the audio elements contribute meaningfully to the game's atmosphere and narrative engagement. Overall, The Forgotten City is regarded as a strong example of how sound design and music can elevate a gaming experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City boasts strong voice acting that enriches character depth and narrative emotionality, earning praise from critics for its quality and diverse accents. However, some critiques highlight stiff facial animations and a few weaker performances, as well as a lack of accessibility for non-English speakers. Overall, the voice acting significantly enhances the game, despite minor shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in The Forgotten City has received a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as NintendoWorldReport and RPG Fan, highlight the exceptional quality of the performances, praising how they bring depth and personality to the characters. Critics like Game Informer and Noisy Pixel commend the voice acting for enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative, making it a standout feature of the game. Additionally, the presence of diverse accents, as noted by Nintendo Life and Xbox Tavern, contributes positively to the immersion and authenticity of the game’s setting. Overall, the consensus is that the voice acting significantly enhances the storytelling experience, with many reviewers noting that it matches or even surpasses the quality of larger titles. However, some critiques have emerged regarding the voice acting, particularly in relation to the accompanying facial animations and the overall emotional depth conveyed. IGN and Hardcore Gamer pointed out that while the voice performances are decent, the facial animations can be stiff and at times unintentionally amusing, which detracts from the immersive experience. Moreover, there are mentions of a few weaker performances, as noted by Metro GameCentral, suggesting that not all voice acting is consistently strong. Critics like Eurogamer Italy also highlighted the lack of Italian voice acting and subtitles, which could limit accessibility for non-English speaking players, further indicating areas where the game could improve. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in The Forgotten City is a strong asset that enhances the narrative and character development, despite some noted shortcomings. The majority of reviewers agree that the performances are well-executed, contributing positively to the immersive experience of the game. Critics such as Meristation and WellPlayed emphasize that the voice acting, combined with thoughtful writing, adds significant depth to the characters and their motivations, making it a compelling aspect of the overall gameplay. While there are minor criticisms regarding animations and accessibility, the general sentiment leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting quality.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch offers a stable experience overall but suffers from severe issues in its cloud version. The PS5 version is mostly polished but faces slowdowns and visual glitches. Xbox Series X users report minor bugs affecting dialogue and controls. Despite these hiccups, critics agree that the game is enjoyable and a step up from its predecessor, with room for improvement in future updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of The Forgotten City varies across different gaming platforms, with some notable positives. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like GameSpot and IGN highlight a generally stable experience, noting fewer bugs compared to more extensive titles like Skyrim. GameSpot mentions only minor issues with dialogue triggering, while IGN appreciates the quality-of-life features that enhance gameplay. Similarly, on the PlayStation 5, the game is praised for its overall polish, with many reviewers, including GameSpot and IGN, indicating that it runs solidly with only minor glitches. Critics such as Meristation and PlayStation LifeStyle commend the game for its commendable stability despite minor bugs. For the Xbox Series X, Metro GameCentral emphasizes the game's polish and stability, with GameSpot echoing this sentiment by reporting a stable experience without major technical problems. However, the negatives are equally significant across platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, GamingTrend points out severe instability in the cloud version, with frequent frame rate fluctuations and crashes, while Nintendo Life mentions freezing loading screens and idle booting issues. The PS5 version is criticized by several reviewers, including GameOver.gr and Push Square, for experiencing slowdowns, freezes, and visual glitches that detract from the experience. Critics like Gaming Age and Vandal also note technical irregularities that, while not game-breaking, do affect immersion. On the Xbox Series X, critics such as Gamer.nl and Windows Central highlight bugs affecting dialogue and camera controls, with some performance hiccups noted by SomosXbox and RPG Fan. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Forgotten City has its share of technical issues across all platforms, the problems are often minor and do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Many reviewers, including IGN and GameSpot, appreciate the improvements over its predecessor mod, indicating that the game is a commendable effort given its development by a small team. While there are notable performance hiccups, especially on the Nintendo Switch and PS5, the game remains largely playable and enjoyable, suggesting that the developers are on the right track but may need to address specific technical concerns in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Forgotten City earns largely positive reviews for its replay value, thanks to multiple endings and a captivating time loop mechanic that encourage exploration. Critics praise its non-linear structure and impactful choices that invite players to uncover different narratives. However, some note its short playtime (5-10 hours) and linear tasks could limit replay enthusiasm, as some endings feel less distinct. Overall, it’s seen as a rewarding experience for those eager to explore its mysteries, making it a solid candidate for multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

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 Forgotten City is predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's multiple endings and the time loop mechanic as significant contributors to its replayability. Critics like GameMAG and Metro GameCentral emphasize that the non-linear structure and various choices available to players encourage exploration of different narrative paths. Additionally, Hey Poor Player and BaziCenter note that the freedom to make impactful choices and the dynamic narrative further enhance the game's replay value, making it appealing for players who enjoy uncovering different outcomes. The consensus is that the game offers a rich experience that invites players to revisit the city and explore its mysteries. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Some critics, such as Video Chums and New Game Network, point out that the game's relatively short completion time—ranging from 5 to 10 hours—might limit the desire for multiple playthroughs once all endings have been seen. Additionally, GameMAG mentions that the linearity in certain tasks may restrict the potential for replayability. Critics like Games.cz and Adventure Gamers also express concerns that while the game does offer multiple endings, some of these endings may not feel significantly different, which could dampen the enthusiasm for replaying the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Forgotten City provides a compelling replay experience, primarily due to its multiple endings and engaging time loop mechanics. While some reviewers express concerns about linearity and the limited impact of certain choices, the majority agree that the game successfully encourages exploration and experimentation. Critics like IGN and PC Gamer reinforce the idea that the game rewards players for revisiting its narrative, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in uncovering all its secrets. The combination of a rich narrative and varied outcomes positions The Forgotten City as a game that many players will find rewarding to replay.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards The Forgotten City among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its engaging narrative, clever gameplay mechanics, and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers like Stevivor and Pure Xbox highlight the game’s rich storytelling and well-balanced experience, emphasizing its appeal to mystery lovers. Critics from GameSpot and Eurogamer Italy commend the game for its compelling narrative and moral complexity, describing it as a must-play for fans of narrative-driven experiences. Additionally, the incorporation of the time loop mechanic is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with critics like AusGamers and Xbox Addict noting it enhances the gameplay and adds depth to the storytelling. However, despite the numerous accolades, several critics pointed out technical shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. GameMAG specifically mentions weak graphics and tedious key item searches as significant drawbacks, while others like GamingTrend and Hardcore Gamer note performance issues and visual design flaws. Critics such as Push Square and GameSpew also echo concerns about combat mechanics and pacing, suggesting that while the narrative shines, certain gameplay elements could use refinement. These critiques indicate that while the game excels in storytelling, it may not fully deliver in terms of technical polish and gameplay mechanics. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Forgotten City is a remarkable achievement in narrative-driven gaming, with a majority rating it highly for its storytelling and immersive gameplay. The game is widely recommended for players who appreciate complex narratives and moral dilemmas, as noted by critics like IGN and GamingTrend. Despite its technical issues, the game’s strengths in writing and atmosphere resonate strongly with reviewers, making it a noteworthy title in the indie game landscape. Overall, The Forgotten City stands as a testament to the potential of narrative in gaming, even as it navigates some developmental hurdles.

TL;DR

The Forgotten City is widely praised for its engaging narrative, clever gameplay, and immersive atmosphere, making it a must-play for fans of story-driven games. Critics highlight its rich storytelling and innovative time loop mechanic, though many note technical flaws like weak graphics and performance issues. Despite these shortcomings, the game is celebrated as a significant achievement in narrative gaming, resonating strongly with players who appreciate moral complexity.

MONSTER

Reviews

110 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

Jul 31, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is a masterfully crafted game that excels in storytelling, gameplay, and design, making it a top contender for Game of the Year.

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100

Gamer.no

Aug 6, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is a remarkable surprise, offering a unique blend of mystery, mythology, and engaging gameplay that is highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Oct 12, 2021

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

The reviewer loved The Forgotten City and recommends playing it.

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100

WellPlayed

Jul 27, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is described as a beauty to behold, offering extraordinary moments of contemplation regarding morality and the laws we exist under. It is praised for focusing on genuine ideas beyond aesthetic escapism and is recommended for players who appreciate this type of game.

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100

Adventure Gamers

Aug 16, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is an excellent mystery adventure that combines engaging gameplay, strong writing, and beautiful visuals, making it a must-play experience.

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100

Player 2

Aug 5, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is praised for its strong narrative, unique gameplay mechanics, and contemplative themes. It is recommended for players looking for a unique and thought-provoking experience.

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ZTGD

Xbox One

Jul 30, 2021

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

The review highly recommends The Forgotten City, praising its narrative, gameplay, and visuals despite the lackluster facial animations.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Aug 3, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is described as a modern classic, redefining adventure games with its storytelling and interactive elements, making it a must-play.

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The Indie Game Website

Jul 29, 2021

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

The Forgotten City is a compact marvel with intelligent and complex writing. It offers a clever story, immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, stellar voice acting, and replay value. History buffs and mystery fans will particularly enjoy this game.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Jul 27, 2021

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

The review gives an overall score of 9.0 out of 10, indicating a highly positive verdict.

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