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The Gardens Between

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

2018

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, Casual, Single Player

AvailableSep 19, 2018

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperThe Voxel Agents

Overview

The Gardens Between is a surreal puzzle adventure through memory, moments and time that follows best friends, Arina and Frendt, as they fall into a mysterious world of beautiful garden islands. The player can traverse back and forwards in time to discover each garden's secrets and, along the way, reveal a story about friendship, childhood and growing up.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between receives mostly positive reviews for its emotional storytelling centered on friendship and nostalgia, praised for its unique, dialogue-free approach that immerses players in childhood memories. Critics commend its visual design, though some argue the narrative feels simplistic and lacks depth, potentially leaving players emotionally detached. Overall, it’s recognized as a poignant exploration of relationships that resonates with those who value its artistic style.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Gardens Between is largely positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and the way it conveys themes of friendship and nostalgia. Reviewers like BaziCenter and PlayStation LifeStyle highlight the journey into childhood memories, emphasizing the heartfelt connection between the two protagonists, Arina and Frendt. Critics such as Game Revolution and Adventure Gamers commend the game's unique storytelling approach, which relies on environmental design and visual cues instead of dialogue, allowing players to immerse themselves in the emotional landscape of the characters' friendship. The game's ability to evoke feelings of childhood and the bittersweet nature of growing up is also noted positively by multiple reviewers, including The Sydney Morning Herald and We Got This Covered, who appreciate its relatable and universal narrative. However, some critics express reservations about the story's depth and character development. For instance, Push Square and The Digital Fix mention the minimalistic nature of the narrative, suggesting that it lacks substantial plot elements and character investment. Critics like Gaming Age and Nintendo Insider also point out that while the story aims to be touching, it may come off as overly simplistic or even cliché, leading to a sense of emotional detachment for some players. The absence of dialogue and the reliance on non-verbal storytelling are seen as limitations by certain reviewers, who argue that this approach may not resonate with everyone, resulting in a less impactful experience. Despite the mixed opinions on the narrative's depth, the overall consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between successfully captures the essence of childhood friendship and the passage of time through its abstract storytelling. Many reviewers, including DarkStation and DualShockers, acknowledge the game's ability to create an emotional connection through its visual storytelling and gameplay mechanics. While some critics may find fault with the lack of a traditional narrative structure, the majority agree that the game offers a poignant and thought-provoking experience that invites players to reflect on their own memories and relationships. Ultimately, The Gardens Between stands out as a unique exploration of friendship, resonating with players who appreciate its artistic and emotional approach.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between impresses with its innovative time manipulation mechanics and engaging puzzle design, earning praise for its clever and intuitive gameplay. Critics highlight its enjoyable exploration and thoughtful observation, but many agree that it could use more challenge and complexity to keep players fully engaged. Overall, it’s a captivating experience that balances creativity and leisure, though some players might find the puzzles lacking in difficulty.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Gardens Between has received largely positive feedback from critics, highlighting its creative and engaging mechanics centered around time manipulation. Reviewers like Game Revolution praised the innovative and intuitive puzzle mechanics, noting the steady difficulty curve and excellent pacing that keeps players engaged. Similarly, Gamer.no emphasized the delightful mix of exploration and puzzle-solving, which encourages thoughtful observation of the environment. The unique premise of controlling time to navigate through levels has been described as both clever and satisfying, with critics like PlayStation Universe and Nintendo Life pointing out the seamless integration of the time-shifting mechanic into the gameplay. This innovative approach not only captivates players but also allows for a leisurely experience, as noted by Adventure Gamers, who appreciated the cleverly designed puzzles that encourage trial and error. However, some critics pointed out that the gameplay could lack a certain level of challenge. BaziCenter and The Digital Fix both mentioned that while the gameplay is creative, it could benefit from more difficulty, with the latter stating that interesting puzzles are few and far between. PlayStation LifeStyle echoed this sentiment, suggesting that while the concept is intriguing, the puzzle design can be inconsistent and at times frustrating. Critics like DarkStation and TheSixthAxis noted that the puzzles are well-designed but not overly difficult, which might leave some players seeking a more substantial challenge. This sentiment was further echoed by Nintenderos, who found the gameplay entertaining yet lacking versatility. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between offers a unique and enjoyable gameplay experience, with its time manipulation mechanics standing out as a highlight. While many reviewers, such as GamingTrend and Worth Playing, praised the innovative puzzle designs and engaging mechanics, there is a shared acknowledgment that the game could benefit from increased challenge and complexity. Despite these critiques, the majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully creates a captivating atmosphere and encourages creative problem-solving, making it a worthwhile experience for players seeking a thoughtful and visually appealing puzzle game.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between is lauded for its stunning art and visual design, with critics praising its colorful, minimalist islands and imaginative environments that evoke childhood nostalgia. While some note minor inconsistencies in character models and a potentially disenfranchising zoomed-out perspective, these critiques are minimal. Overall, the game's visuals are celebrated as a key highlight, effectively enhancing its narrative and emotional depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of The Gardens Between have garnered widespread acclaim from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like BaziCenter and DarkStation highlight the game's "magnificent art design" and "striking visual design," emphasizing its colorful and minimalist islands that create a captivating aesthetic. Many critics, including Game Revolution and Gamer.no, praise the clean and vibrant visuals that evoke a sense of childlike innocence, effectively complementing the game's narrative. The surreal and diorama-like environments are frequently noted, with PlayStation Universe and Push Square appreciating the clever design that integrates oversized items into the landscapes, enhancing the overall experience. This consistent praise for the game's artistic direction showcases a strong appreciation for its imaginative and evocative visuals. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics have pointed out some minor drawbacks. Video Chums noted that while the game is colorful and endearing, the character models stand out awkwardly, suggesting a slight inconsistency in design focus. Additionally, while most reviews celebrate the visual style, some critics like The Digital Fix mention that the zoomed-out perspective may create a disenfranchised tone, which could detract from the immersive experience for some players. However, these critiques are relatively isolated and do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment surrounding the game's visuals. The overall consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a beautiful and memorable experience for players. The majority of reviewers agree that the game’s art style, characterized by its vibrant colors and imaginative settings, effectively captures the essence of childhood memories and emotions. Critics such as DualShockers and Adventure Gamers highlight the game's stunning art direction and imaginative world design, reinforcing the notion that the visuals play a crucial role in conveying the game's themes. Ultimately, the game's graphics are celebrated as a standout feature, contributing significantly to its charm and appeal across all platforms.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between boasts a mesmerizing soundtrack that enhances its emotional and immersive gameplay, earning widespread acclaim for its soothing and ethereal qualities. Critics laud its ability to complement the game's visuals and themes, though some note issues with repetitiveness and memorability. Overall, the audio design significantly enriches the game's charm, making it a standout experience despite a few minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

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 Gardens Between have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as BaziCenter and PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the soothing and relaxing nature of the music, which enhances the overall gaming experience. DarkStation praised Tim Shiel's ambient soundtrack for its ability to elevate emotional moments, while Game Revolution noted that the laidback ambient tunes create a cohesive audiovisual experience. Critics like God is a Geek and Hooked Gamers emphasized the delicate and haunting qualities of the score, which perfectly complements the game's vibrant visuals and surreal themes. The general consensus is that the soundtrack is not only well-composed but also integral to the game's immersive atmosphere, with many reviewers mentioning its ethereal and dreamlike qualities. However, some criticisms emerged regarding the music's versatility and memorability. For instance, Nintenderos pointed out that while the soundtrack is subtle and relaxing, it can become redundant during prolonged play sessions. Similarly, We Got This Covered remarked that the synth-heavy soundtrack, while adequate, fails to leave a lasting impression. Critics like XBLA Fans acknowledged the impressive sound design but noted a lack of detail about the music itself, suggesting that while the sound design is commendable, it may not fully capture the depth of the musical experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of The Gardens Between create a captivating and immersive atmosphere that enhances the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including Adventure Gamers and DualShockers, praised the soundtrack for its ability to complement the visuals and narrative, contributing to a unique and emotional journey. While there are minor critiques regarding the music's repetitiveness and memorability, the overwhelming sentiment is that the audio elements significantly enrich the game's overall charm and emotional resonance.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between captivates with a touching narrative and inventive puzzles, but its short 2-4 hour playtime leaves it lacking in replay value. Critics appreciate its emotional depth but point to the linear structure and repetitive puzzles as significant drawbacks. While some believe a second playthrough can deepen appreciation, the majority agree that the game offers a memorable but ultimately one-time experience, with minimal incentives for revisiting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of The Gardens Between reflect a mix of appreciation for its narrative and puzzles, even amidst concerns about its brevity. Critics like Gamer.no and TheXboxHub highlight that despite the game's short length—typically around two to four hours—it manages to maintain engagement through its inventive puzzles and a deeply touching narrative. The emotional connection to the characters and the experience can leave a lasting impression, as noted by GameSpot, who emphasizes the relatable memories and bonds formed throughout the gameplay. This suggests that while the game may not offer extensive replayability, its emotional depth can encourage players to revisit it for a second experience. Conversely, many critics express dissatisfaction regarding the game's replay value, primarily due to its short duration and linear structure. DarkStation, God is a Geek, and Video Chums all point out that the game lacks robust challenges and additional modes that could entice players to return after completing the campaign. The repetitive nature of the puzzles, as mentioned by COGconnected and Impulsegamer, further diminishes the incentive for replaying, as there are few secrets or collectibles to discover. The overall sentiment suggests that while the initial experience can be enjoyable, the limited content and straightforward puzzle-solving mechanics leave little room for exploration or replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between is a beautifully crafted game with a poignant narrative and enjoyable puzzles, yet its replay value is significantly hindered by its short length and lack of additional content. While some reviewers, like The Sydney Morning Herald, suggest that a second playthrough can enhance appreciation for the narrative, the majority agree that the game is best experienced once. Critics like Gamers' Temple and Nintenderos emphasize the absence of replay incentives, reinforcing the notion that while the game is memorable, it ultimately lacks the depth required for multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards The Gardens Between is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique concept, beautiful visuals, and emotional depth. Reviewers like DarkStation and PlayStation Universe highlight its combination of engaging puzzles and a touching narrative, describing it as one of the best puzzle games of the year. Critics such as Game Revolution and TheSixthAxis emphasize the game's charm and quality, noting that it prioritizes a meaningful experience over sheer length. The game's ability to evoke nostalgia and its minimalist storytelling approach are also frequently mentioned, with Adventure Gamers and DualShockers appreciating how it conveys themes of friendship and change through its gameplay. However, several critics point out notable shortcomings, particularly regarding the game's brevity and the perceived lack of depth in its narrative. Push Square and The Digital Fix express disappointment over the limited content, suggesting that while the game is visually stunning, it falls short in providing a more substantial experience. Similarly, Video Chums and Nintenderos mention issues with slow character movement and a lack of replay value, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. Critics like God is a Geek and We Got This Covered also mention that some players may find the game dull due to its simplicity and short runtime, indicating a divide in how the game's pacing and design are received. In summary, The Gardens Between is largely celebrated for its artistic presentation and emotional resonance, with many critics recommending it for fans of the puzzle genre. However, the consensus also acknowledges its limitations, particularly in terms of length and narrative depth. Critics like Gamers' Temple and GamingTrend commend its charm and recommend it as a must-play, while others, such as Gaming Age and Nintendo Insider, suggest that it never fully realizes its potential. Overall, the game is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those who appreciate its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay, despite its shortcomings.

TL;DR

The Gardens Between receives high praise for its stunning visuals and emotional depth, hailed as one of the best puzzle games of the year by critics like DarkStation and PlayStation Universe. However, its short length and shallow narrative leave some feeling disappointed, with critics like Push Square noting a lack of substantial content. While many recommend it for its charm and unique storytelling, others highlight issues like slow character movement and limited replay value. Overall, it’s a beautiful yet brief experience that resonates emotionally, but may not satisfy all players.

MONSTER

Reviews

105 reviews found

100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

Dec 18, 2018

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

The review concludes that The Gardens Between is a well-produced and polished game that is relaxing and welcoming, and recommends it as a must-buy.

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GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a masterpiece of minimalist storytelling and a must-have title for anyone who enjoys puzzle games.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Oct 1, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a delightful and touching game with consistently great level design, offering a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 4

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a short and simple adventure that holds a lot of charm. It plays upon nostalgia and deals with the nature of change within relationships. The game is perfectly put together and the puzzles should be praised. Score: 9/10

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TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Dec 7, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is described as a fantastic game that excels in visuals, gameplay, and soundtrack. Despite some minor issues with puzzle simplicity and length, the overall experience is highly recommended for players looking for a lovely and engaging concept.

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NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a smartly designed puzzler with a strong story and stunning visuals. The only minor complaint is the abrupt conclusion.

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DualShockers

Sep 19, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a wholly unique and emotionally impactful experience that stands out among indie games, offering a beautiful journey that shouldn't be forgotten.

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GameCritics

Oct 15, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is praised for its emotional storytelling, clever puzzles, and beautiful visuals. It serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of moving forward while cherishing memories.

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Hooked Gamers

Oct 1, 2018

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

The Gardens Between is a beautiful game with wonderful settings, puzzles, and a relaxing atmosphere. It is a game for all ages, but especially nostalgic for those who grew up in the 80s.

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Worth Playing

Nintendo Switch

Oct 26, 2018

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

The Gardens Between offers a gratifying experience with clever puzzles, gorgeous visuals, and a compelling gameplay loop. While the story is underdeveloped and the game is short for its price, it still provides a journey worth embarking on for fans of the genre.

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