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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 garners mostly positive reviews for its emotional depth and unique storytelling, with critics praising its exploration of childhood memories and friendship. Its dialogue-free narrative relies on environmental design to evoke feelings, although some argue the plot feels thin and underdeveloped. Despite mixed opinions on narrative depth, the game is celebrated for its charm and nostalgic resonance, making it a memorable experience for those who appreciate its artistic subtleties.

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 predominantly positive, with many critics praising its emotional depth and unique storytelling approach. Reviewers like BaziCenter and PlayStation LifeStyle highlight the game's exploration of childhood memories and the themes of friendship and kindness, which resonate with players on a personal level. DarkStation and Adventure Gamers commend the impactful narrative conveyed without dialogue, relying instead on environmental design and visual storytelling to evoke emotions. Critics such as DualShockers and The Sydney Morning Herald appreciate the bittersweet nature of the story, noting how it effectively captures the essence of youthful memories and the significance of shared experiences between the two protagonists, Arina and Frendt. However, some critics express concerns about the narrative's depth and character development. Push Square and The Digital Fix point out the lack of substantial plot elements, suggesting that the story may feel thin or underdeveloped, relying heavily on its visual style rather than a cohesive narrative. Gaming Age echoes this sentiment, stating that while the game evokes feelings of childhood, it does not present a robust plot. Nintendo Insider also mentions feeling unmoved by the narrative, indicating that the bittersweet elements may not resonate with all players. This critique suggests that while the game aims for emotional impact, it may not achieve it for everyone. Despite the mixed opinions on narrative depth, the overall consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between offers a charming and poignant experience that resonates with many players. The game's ability to evoke nostalgia and personal reflection through its minimalist storytelling is frequently highlighted, as seen in reviews from GameSpot and VideoGamer. Critics agree that the game's unique approach to storytelling—focusing on environmental cues and emotional connections—creates a memorable experience, even if some feel it lacks traditional narrative structure. Ultimately, The Gardens Between is recognized as a thoughtful meditation on friendship and memory, appealing to those who appreciate its artistic and emotional subtleties.

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 steady difficulty curve and delightful exploration. While critics laud its clever puzzles, some note a lack of challenge and limited gameplay scope. Overall, it’s regarded as a well-crafted title that captivates players despite minor flaws, solidifying its place in the puzzle genre.

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 among critics, with many praising its innovative mechanics and engaging puzzle design. Reviewers like Game Revolution highlighted the "innovative and intuitive" puzzle mechanics, noting the steady difficulty curve and excellent pacing that keeps players engaged throughout their journey. The use of time manipulation as a core mechanic received acclaim, with critics such as God is a Geek and PlayStation Universe emphasizing how the game allows players to control the flow of time to solve puzzles creatively. The blend of exploration and puzzle-solving was also commended, with Gamer.no describing it as a "delightful mix," while Nintendo Life referred to the puzzles as "subtly complex" and "perfectly balanced," showcasing the game's ability to challenge players while maintaining a sense of enjoyment. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the gameplay, particularly regarding its challenge level. BaziCenter and The Digital Fix noted that while the gameplay is creative, it could benefit from increased difficulty, with the latter stating that many puzzles are easily solved by simply moving time forwards or backwards. PlayStation LifeStyle echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while the concept is interesting, the puzzle design can be inconsistent and at times frustrating. Additionally, Nintenderos remarked on the lack of versatility in gameplay, suggesting that while entertaining, the experience could feel limited in scope. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between offers a unique and enjoyable gameplay experience that effectively utilizes time manipulation mechanics to create engaging puzzles. While there are concerns about the challenge level and some inconsistencies in puzzle design, the majority of reviewers agree that the game is well-crafted and thoughtfully designed. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Video Chums emphasized the cleverness of the puzzles, and Worth Playing praised the brisk pace and innovative ideas, further solidifying the game's reputation as a standout title in the puzzle genre. The positive reception indicates that, despite its minor flaws, The Gardens Between successfully captivates players with its imaginative gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Gardens Between receives rave reviews for its stunning visual design, with critics praising its colorful, minimalist islands and diorama-like levels that evoke nostalgia and childhood innocence. While some minor critiques target the awkwardness of character models, the game's overall artistic direction is celebrated as a captivating and emotional storytelling tool.

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 many critics praising its unique artistic direction. Reviewers like BaziCenter and DarkStation highlight the game's "magnificent art design" and "striking visual design," emphasizing the minimalist yet colorful islands that create an enchanting atmosphere. Critics such as Game Revolution and God is a Geek appreciate how the visuals capture the childlike innocence of the game, with vibrant colors and oversized items that contribute to a cheerful aesthetic. The diorama-like levels are frequently noted, with PlayStation LifeStyle and PlayStation Universe commending their surrealistic style, which adds a sense of wonder and nostalgia to the gaming experience. Many reviewers, including The Digital Fix and Adventure Gamers, also remark on the effective integration of objects into the environment, enhancing the storytelling and emotional resonance of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are a few critiques regarding certain aspects of the game's visuals. Video Chums points out that while the game is colorful and endearing, the character models can appear awkward in comparison to the beautifully designed environments. This sentiment is echoed by some critics who mention that while the overall art direction is stunning, there are moments where the simplicity of the character designs might detract from the immersive experience. However, these criticisms are relatively minor and do not overshadow the general acclaim for the game's visual appeal. In summary, the consensus among critics is that The Gardens Between boasts a visually striking and imaginative design that effectively conveys its themes and emotions. The majority of reviewers appreciate the game's vibrant colors, detailed environments, and diorama-like aesthetics, which create a captivating and nostalgic experience. Critics like Gaming Age and TheSixthAxis emphasize the game's ability to evoke childhood memories through its art style, while others, such as Nintenderos and Nintendo Life, laud the charming and fantastical visuals that enhance the overall atmosphere. Overall, the graphics and visual design of The Gardens Between are celebrated as a standout feature, contributing significantly to its positive reception.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the soothing, ambient soundtrack of The Gardens Between by Tim Shiel, praising its ability to enhance the game's emotional and visual experience. While most reviews highlight its relaxing and immersive qualities, a few point out issues with repetitiveness and lack of lasting impact. Overall, the music significantly contributes to the game's charm and atmosphere, making it a key part of the experience.

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 been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the soothing and ambient qualities of the soundtrack, which is primarily composed by Tim Shiel. For instance, BaziCenter noted that the "soothing music adds to the overall experience," while Game Revolution highlighted the "laidback, excellent ambient tunes" that create a cohesive audiovisual experience. DarkStation emphasized how the ambient soundtrack enhances emotional moments, and PlayStation LifeStyle echoed this sentiment by stating that the relaxing music significantly contributes to the atmosphere. Critics like God is a Geek and The Digital Fix appreciated how the music complements the game's colorful aesthetic and thematic depth, respectively, with the latter noting a "ghostly soundtrack" that effectively reflects the game's subject matter. Despite the largely favorable reception, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks regarding the soundtrack. For example, Nintenderos mentioned that while the game features a "subtle and relaxing melody," it lacks versatility and can become redundant during prolonged play sessions. Similarly, We Got This Covered described the synth-heavy soundtrack as "fine" but lacking a lasting impression, suggesting that it may not resonate deeply with players after their initial experience. Additionally, while XBLA Fans acknowledged the impressive sound design, they did not delve into specifics about the music, indicating a potential area where the soundtrack may not have fully captivated all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of The Gardens Between significantly enhance the gameplay experience, creating a relaxing and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers consistently highlight the effectiveness of the soundtrack in complementing the game's visuals and narrative, with many describing it as ethereal, soothing, and emotionally resonant. The combination of calming melodies and ambient sounds has been noted by critics like Hooked Gamers and DualShockers as essential to the game's surreal and childlike experience. While some critiques regarding the soundtrack's repetitiveness exist, the majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for how the music and sound design contribute to the game's overall charm and emotional impact.

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 its touching narrative and inventive puzzles, but critics agree its short, linear design limits replay value. While some players might revisit for emotional resonance, many highlight a lack of additional content and monotonous gameplay as key deterrents to multiple playthroughs. Ultimately, it’s a memorable experience that feels incomplete, leaving 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 regarding the replay value of The Gardens Between reveal a nuanced appreciation for its narrative and puzzle design, despite its brevity. Critics like Gamer.no and TheXboxHub highlight that while the game is short—typically taking around two to four hours to complete—it manages to keep the experience fresh and engaging through its inventive puzzles and deeply touching narrative. TheSixthAxis notes that the puzzles are enjoyable and can be revisited without limits, suggesting that the gameplay mechanics themselves may encourage some players to return for a second playthrough. Additionally, GameSpot emphasizes the emotional resonance of the story, indicating that the warm memories created during gameplay may linger, prompting players to revisit the game for its narrative impact. Conversely, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, pointing out its linearity and lack of additional content. DarkStation and God is a Geek both assert that the game lacks robust replayability, with many reviews echoing the sentiment that once the short experience is complete, there is little incentive to return. Critics like Video Chums and COGconnected reinforce this notion by stating that the absence of additional modes or challenges diminishes the game's replay potential. Many reviews also note the repetitive nature of the gameplay, with reviewers like Gaming Age and Impulsegamer indicating that the game may feel monotonous upon completion, further discouraging multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while The Gardens Between offers a memorable and emotionally resonant experience, its short length and linear design significantly limit its replay value. Most reviewers, such as Gamers' Temple and Worth Playing, agree that the game can be completed in a single sitting, and the lack of additional content or varying puzzle solutions leaves players with a sense of untapped potential. Although some critics, like The Sydney Morning Herald and NintendoWorldReport, suggest that a second playthrough may enhance appreciation for the narrative, the prevailing opinion remains that the game’s brevity and linearity ultimately reduce its replayability.

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 approach to puzzle design and its emotional depth. Reviewers like DarkStation and Game Revolution highlight the game as one of the best puzzle experiences of the year, noting its charming visuals and rewarding gameplay. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and DualShockers emphasize the game's emotional storytelling and beautiful art style, suggesting that it offers a memorable journey that resonates with players. The nostalgic appeal and minimalist design are frequently mentioned, with Adventure Gamers and Hooked Gamers appreciating how the game conveys themes of friendship and change through its engaging puzzles and serene atmosphere. However, several criticisms arise concerning the game's brevity and perceived lack of depth. Critics like Push Square and The Digital Fix point out that while the game excels in aesthetics and charm, it falls short in content and narrative significance. Many reviewers, including God is a Geek and Video Chums, note that the game may feel dull or lacking in replay value due to its short length and straightforward puzzles. Some, like Nintenderos and We Got This Covered, mention that the game does not fully reach its potential, indicating a desire for a more robust exploration of its mechanics and themes. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards recommending The Gardens Between as a worthwhile experience, particularly for fans of puzzle games. Reviewers such as GamingTrend and Nintendo Life celebrate its unique setup and emotional resonance, suggesting that it stands out in the indie game landscape. The game is often described as a delightful and touching experience, with many critics affirming that its beauty and charm make it a must-try, even if it may not be perfect. The combination of engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and heartfelt themes creates a compelling narrative that resonates with a diverse audience, making The Gardens Between a notable title in the gaming world.

TL;DR

The Gardens Between garners mostly positive reviews for its unique puzzles and emotional storytelling, praised for its charming visuals and themes of friendship. Critics celebrate its aesthetic appeal, but many note its short length and lack of depth as drawbacks, leading to concerns about replay value. Despite these issues, it remains highly recommended for puzzle enthusiasts and stands out in the indie gaming scene as a touching experience worth trying.

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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