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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

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between earns praise for its emotional depth, nostalgic themes, and unique storytelling through visuals rather than dialogue, creating a heartfelt journey of childhood friendship. Critics laud its bittersweet narrative and ability to evoke strong feelings. However, some argue the story lacks depth and character development, leaving it feeling shallow and more of a backdrop to gameplay. The game excels in atmosphere but may disappoint those seeking a robust plot. Overall, it's a poignant exploration of memory and connection, though its minimalist approach divides opinion.

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 captures the essence of childhood friendship. Reviewers like BaziCenter and DarkStation highlight the game's focus on nostalgia, friendship, and the passage of time, noting that it creates a heartfelt journey through the memories of the two protagonists, Arina and Frendt. Critics such as PlayStation LifeStyle and DualShockers commend the game for its ability to convey powerful emotions without the use of dialogue, relying instead on environmental storytelling and visual cues. The game’s abstract narrative is often described as bittersweet, with critics like God is a Geek and The Sydney Morning Herald appreciating its relatable themes and the emotional connection it fosters with players. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the depth and engagement of the story. Some reviewers, such as Push Square and The Digital Fix, argue that the narrative lacks substantial plot elements and character development, making it feel somewhat shallow. Critics like Gaming Age and Worth Playing mention that while the game evokes feelings of nostalgia, it may not provide enough payoff or character investment to fully engage players. The minimalist approach to storytelling, while praised by some for its charm, is also seen as a limitation by others who desire a more robust narrative structure. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between offers a unique and evocative exploration of friendship and memory, though its minimalist storytelling may not resonate with everyone. Many reviewers appreciate the emotional weight of the narrative, as seen in the opinions of Adventure Gamers and Video Chums, who highlight the game's ability to connect with players on a personal level. However, the lack of dialogue and depth in character development leaves some critics feeling that the story serves more as a backdrop to the gameplay than a fully realized narrative. This duality in reception suggests that while the game excels in creating an emotional atmosphere, it may not satisfy those looking for a more intricate plot.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between impresses critics with its innovative time manipulation mechanics and engaging puzzles, creating a beautifully crafted experience. Reviewers celebrate its accessibility and thoughtful design, although some lament the lack of challenge and occasional inconsistencies in puzzle complexity. Overall, it’s a delightful game that’s perfect for those who love exploration and a creative puzzle-solving experience, despite its more relaxed 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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its innovative mechanics and engaging puzzle design. Many reviewers, such as Game Revolution and Nintendo Life, highlight the clever use of time manipulation as a core gameplay feature, allowing players to control the flow of time to solve puzzles and navigate through beautifully crafted environments. Critics like Gamer.no and God is a Geek praise the mix of exploration and puzzle-solving, noting that the game encourages thoughtful observation and lateral thinking. The simplicity of the controls, as mentioned by PlayStation Universe and GamingTrend, enhances the experience, making it accessible while still offering depth through its unique mechanics. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's level of challenge. Several reviewers, including BaziCenter and The Digital Fix, express that the gameplay could benefit from increased difficulty, with some puzzles being described as too easy or lacking in complexity. PlayStation LifeStyle points out inconsistencies in puzzle design that can lead to moments of frustration, while Adventure Gamers and TheSixthAxis echo this sentiment by stating that while the puzzles are cleverly designed, they often do not present a significant challenge, allowing for a leisurely experience that may not satisfy players seeking more demanding gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between offers a delightful and innovative gameplay experience that is largely well-received. The majority of reviewers appreciate the creative approach to time manipulation and the engaging puzzle mechanics, as highlighted by critics like Video Chums and Nintendo Insider. While some concerns about the lack of challenge and occasional inconsistencies in puzzle design are noted, the game is celebrated for its artistic presentation and the thoughtful design of its puzzles. This combination of strengths leads to a favorable view of the gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for players who enjoy exploration and puzzle-solving in a unique and whimsical setting.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between wows critics with its stunning graphics and art design, praised for its colorful, minimalist islands that evoke childlike wonder. Reviewers highlight the emotional resonance of its diorama-like levels, though some note awkward character models and simpler styles might not appeal to everyone. Overall, the game’s visuals are celebrated as a standout feature that enhances storytelling and nostalgia.

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 overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Gardens Between is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of critics praising its artistic direction and aesthetic appeal. Reviewers like BaziCenter and DarkStation highlight the "magnificent art design" and "striking visual design," respectively, emphasizing the game's colorful and minimalist islands. Many critics, including Game Revolution and God is a Geek, appreciate how the visuals capture a childlike innocence, with vibrant colors and imaginative environments that enhance the storytelling. The diorama-like levels, as noted by PlayStation LifeStyle and The Digital Fix, contribute to a sense of wonder and nostalgia, making the visual experience not only beautiful but also emotionally resonant. Despite the widespread acclaim, there are a few criticisms regarding certain aspects of the visual design. Video Chums pointed out that while the environments are colorful and endearing, the character models appear somewhat awkward in comparison. This sentiment suggests that while the overall aesthetic is strong, there may be inconsistencies in character design that detract from the immersive experience. Additionally, some critics, like COGconnected, mention a simpler art style that may not appeal to everyone, indicating a potential divide in preference for more complex visuals versus a minimalist approach. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a captivating and enchanting world that resonates with players. The game's ability to evoke childhood memories through its surreal and colorful environments is a recurring theme in reviews, with critics like The XboxHub and Adventure Gamers praising the detailed and imaginative world design. While there are minor critiques regarding character models and stylistic choices, the overwhelming majority agree that the game's visual presentation is a standout feature, contributing significantly to the overall experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between boasts a critically acclaimed soundtrack, praised for its soothing, ambient qualities that enhance the game's emotional depth and visual aesthetics. Reviewers highlight Tim Shiel's score as a key player in creating an immersive, dreamlike atmosphere. While the music generally receives high marks for its cohesion and calming effect, some critics note its lack of versatility and potential repetitiveness during long sessions. Overall, the sound design significantly enriches the gameplay experience, though some nuances may not resonate with every player.

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. Many reviewers, including BaziCenter and PlayStation LifeStyle, praised the soothing and relaxing qualities of the game's soundtrack, noting how it enhances the overall experience. DarkStation highlighted Tim Shiel's ambient soundtrack for its ability to enrich emotional moments, while Game Revolution emphasized the laidback, excellent ambient tunes that create a cohesive audiovisual experience. The general consensus among critics, such as God is a Geek and The Digital Fix, is that the music is not only well-composed but also complements the game's colorful aesthetics and thematic elements, contributing to an immersive atmosphere. The ethereal quality of the score, as noted by Push Square and VideoGamer, further enhances the dreamlike nature of the gameplay, making it a standout feature of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the soundtrack. For instance, Nintenderos mentioned that while the music is subtle and relaxing, it lacks versatility and can become redundant during extended play sessions. We Got This Covered echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the synth-heavy soundtrack, while adequate, fails to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciated the sound design, some, like XBLA Fans, did not delve deeply into the music itself, leaving a gap in the analysis of how the soundtrack interacts with gameplay mechanics. This indicates that while the music is generally well-received, there are nuances that may not resonate with all players over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between excels in its sound design and music, creating an engaging and immersive experience for players. Reviewers across platforms, including TheSixthAxis and Nintendo Life, agree that the soundtrack effectively enhances the game's emotional and thematic depth, contributing to a serene and calming atmosphere. Critics like Adventure Gamers and DualShockers also noted that the music complements the visuals and narrative, adding character to the overall experience. While there are some critiques regarding the soundtrack's repetitiveness and lack of versatility, the majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the game's auditory elements, solidifying its place as a significant aspect of the gameplay experience.

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 impresses with its touching narrative and compelling puzzles, leaving players with a memorable experience despite being a short game (2-4 hours). However, critics largely agree that its replay value is severely limited due to a lack of content, additional modes, and linear gameplay. While some find the emotional depth rewarding, the consensus is that it’s more of a one-and-done experience, leaving many players wanting more.

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 of various critics regarding the replay value of The Gardens Between reveal some positive aspects that are worth noting. Several reviewers highlight the game's engaging narrative and unique puzzle mechanics, suggesting that while the game is brief, the experience is meaningful. For instance, TheXboxHub describes the game as “short but sweet,” indicating that the captivating nature of the story and puzzles can leave a lasting impression on players. Similarly, GameSpot emphasizes the emotional resonance of the narrative, suggesting that the memories created during gameplay may linger even after the game is completed. Critics like GamingTrend also point out the rewarding nature of the puzzles, which may entice players to revisit the game despite its brevity. On the other hand, a significant number of critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value. Many reviewers, including DarkStation and God is a Geek, emphasize that the game lacks substantial content and replayability, with gameplay often clocking in at around two to four hours. Critics like Video Chums and Gamers' Temple note that there are no additional modes or incentives to replay the game once it has been completed, which diminishes its longevity. The linear nature of the puzzles, as pointed out by COGconnected and Nintenderos, further restricts the potential for replay, as players may find little reason to revisit the same challenges. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Gardens Between offers a touching and memorable experience, its short length and lack of replay incentives significantly limit its replay value. Critics like Push Square and We Got This Covered reinforce this sentiment by noting that the game can be completed quickly, leaving players with a desire for more content. While some reviewers acknowledge the emotional depth and puzzle enjoyment, the prevailing view is that the game’s brevity and linearity ultimately hinder its replayability, making it more of a one-time experience rather than a game that invites repeated 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 surrounding The Gardens Between is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique concept, beautiful visuals, and engaging puzzle mechanics. Reviewers like DarkStation and PlayStation Universe highlight the game as one of the best puzzle experiences of the year, noting its charming aesthetics and emotionally resonant narrative. Critics such as Game Revolution and Gamer.no appreciate the game's ability to deliver a thoughtful and rewarding experience, emphasizing its quality over quantity. The minimalist storytelling is often regarded as a strength, with several reviewers, including DualShockers and GameCritics, noting how it effectively conveys themes of friendship and nostalgia through its gameplay and visual design. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's length and replay value. Many reviewers, including Push Square and The Digital Fix, express disappointment with the game's brevity and the perceived lack of depth in its narrative. Critics like Video Chums and Nintenderos mention that while the game is visually stunning and engaging, it suffers from slow character movement and a lack of meaningful connections between gameplay and story. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from God is a Geek and We Got This Covered, point out that the game may feel dull or underdeveloped for certain players, particularly those seeking more challenging or content-rich experiences. Despite the mixed critiques, the overall consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between is a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of puzzle games and those who appreciate a more leisurely approach to gameplay. Reviewers like Cubed3 and GamingTrend hail it as a masterpiece of minimalist storytelling, while others, such as Nintendo Life and The Sydney Morning Herald, commend its unique setup and whimsical charm. While the game may not reach its full potential in terms of content and narrative depth, the emotional impact and artistic design resonate strongly with many players, making it a memorable addition to the indie gaming landscape.

TL;DR

The Gardens Between garners mostly positive reviews for its unique concept, stunning visuals, and emotional puzzle mechanics, praised as one of the year's best puzzle games. Critics celebrate its minimalist storytelling and themes of friendship, though some lament its short length and limited replay value. While the game may lack depth for some, it still stands out as a charming and memorable indie experience, particularly for fans of leisurely gameplay.

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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