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The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story
Item: The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, RPG, Single Player

AvailableApr 18, 2023

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

DeveloperDigital Sun

Overview

Developed by Digital Sun, creators of Moonlighter, The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is an action RPG that takes place in the League of Legends universe. In the kingdom of Demacia, the Mageseekers hold the power to oppress magic-using citizens in the name of public order–by inducting and indoctrinating them, locking them away, or driving them into hiding. Play as Sylas, a spell-stealing mage who has just broken free of his unjust captivity at the Mageseekers’ hands. Wielding the chains that once bound you, you must liberate your homeland from tyranny, one Mageseeker at a time.

Elsewhere

6.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story has been generally well-received for its engaging narrative about Sylas seeking revenge against Demacia, with critics praising character development and themes of societal change. However, some reviewers criticize its predictability, slow pacing, and missed opportunities with character depth. While it expands the League universe and resonates with many, others feel it lacks originality and depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, who appreciate its engaging narrative centered around Sylas, a mage seeking revenge against the oppressive kingdom of Demacia. Reviewers like COGconnected and Destructoid commend the well-developed characters and the exploration of themes such as societal change and personal growth. Many critics, including Gameblog.fr and Gamers Heroes, highlight the accessible narrative and the depth of character interactions, which contribute to an overall compelling experience. The game’s ability to weave in complex themes like discrimination, rebellion, and the fight for ideals, as noted by GRYOnline.pl and But Why Tho?, adds to its richness, making it appealing to both newcomers and fans of the League of Legends lore. However, not all critiques are favorable, as some reviewers point out significant shortcomings in the narrative. Critics like RPG Fan and TrueGaming express disappointment with the predictability and clichés inherent in the story, suggesting that it lacks depth and character development. The slow pacing at the beginning of the game is also a recurring theme in reviews, with GameSpot and TheXboxHub noting that while the story picks up, the initial chapters may deter some players. Additionally, Siliconera criticizes the narrative for contradicting established lore and not fully utilizing the potential of new characters, which could have enriched the story further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Mageseeker presents a solid narrative experience, albeit with some flaws. While many reviewers, such as XboxEra and Gamereactor UK, appreciate the character-driven story and its themes of revolution and redemption, others like RPGamer and Shacknews find that the execution falls short of its ambitious potential. The game succeeds in expanding the League of Legends universe, providing engaging character arcs, and exploring relevant social themes, but it also faces criticism for its predictability and pacing issues. Ultimately, the story resonates well with a segment of players, while others may find it lacking in depth and originality.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story delivers fast-paced, engaging combat with strategic depth through unique mechanics like stealing magic. Critics praise its high-tempo action and challenging boss fights, but many note issues with repetitiveness and clunky controls that can diminish the experience. While the game successfully captures Sylas's character and offers enjoyable gameplay, its lack of variety and occasional monotony may limit long-term appeal. Overall, a mixed bag that excites in bursts but risks boredom over time.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting its engaging and fast-paced combat mechanics. Reviewers like COGconnected and Multiplayer.it praised the high-tempo action and the strategic elements involved, such as elemental abilities and mana management. The ability to steal magic from enemies, as noted by Comicbook.com and Gamers Heroes, adds a unique layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay, allowing for creative combinations and tactical decision-making. Critics also applauded the boss fights, with RPG Site and SpazioGames noting their complexity and challenge, which contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment of the game. However, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the experience. Gameblog.fr and Vandal mentioned that the gameplay can become repetitive over time, lacking sufficient variety in enemy encounters and level design. Some reviewers, like But Why Tho? and RPG Fan, criticized the controls and movement, suggesting that they can feel stiff or clunky, which may hinder the fluidity of combat. Additionally, while many found the combat engaging, others, such as Meristation, felt that it lacked the necessary depth and preparation for encounters, leading to a sense of monotony in gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while The Mageseeker offers a solid and enjoyable combat experience, it is marred by repetitiveness and control issues. The game excels in providing fast-paced, action-packed gameplay that is faithful to the character of Sylas, as noted by IGN and XboxEra. Still, the lack of variety and occasional clunkiness in controls, highlighted by critics like ZTGD and RPG Fan, indicates that while the game has strong elements, it may not maintain its appeal over extended play sessions. The balance between engaging combat and the potential for repetitiveness seems to be a central theme in the reviews, making the game a mixed bag for players seeking both action and depth.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story dazzles with stunning pixel art and detailed visuals, earning rave reviews for its vibrant color palettes and fluid animations. Critics applaud its fantasy atmosphere and art direction, but some note visual clutter in intense battles and performance hitches on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, while there are minor drawbacks, the game's graphics are a striking highlight that enhance the gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

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 Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the stunning pixel art and the attention to detail throughout the game. Reviewers from various outlets, including COGconnected and GRYOnline.pl, highlighted the impressive pixel art style that adds depth to the fantasy atmosphere, while Destructoid commended the gorgeous visuals, particularly during boss battles. Critics like Gamereactor UK and Pocket Tactics noted the meticulous attention to detail in both character animations and environmental design, with vibrant color palettes enhancing the overall visual experience. The fluidity of animations and the effective representation of League of Legends champions were also frequently mentioned, showcasing Digital Sun's talent in art direction. However, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation. Gameblog.fr and Push Square noted that the pixel art could become visually cluttered during intense battles, which might detract from the gameplay experience. Vandal mentioned that while the environments are well-crafted, they can feel too similar, and some performance issues were reported on the Nintendo Switch version. Additionally, Multiplayer.it mentioned a lack of extensive detail in the visual design, which could leave some players wanting more depth in certain areas. These critiques suggest that while the visuals are largely impressive, there are moments where they may not fully deliver on their potential. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story features a visually striking pixel art style that successfully captures the essence of its source material while enhancing the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and PC Gamer, emphasized the beauty and charm of the graphics, with many praising the fluid animations and vibrant color choices. Despite some minor criticisms regarding visual clutter and performance issues, the overall reception is that the game's graphics and visual design are a standout aspect, contributing significantly to its appeal and immersion.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story features an acclaimed soundtrack by Gareth Coker that enhances gameplay with atmospheric and dynamic music, praised for its adaptability during combat and calm moments. Critics commend the vibrant sound design but note shortcomings, such as the absence of voice acting and some repetitiveness in the score. Overall, despite a desire for more variety, the music and sound design are seen as standout elements that enrich the game's immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

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 Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story have garnered largely positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as GRYOnline.pl and GameSpot highlight the atmospheric qualities of the music composed by Gareth Coker, noting that it effectively enhances the fantasy setting of the game. IGN emphasizes the dynamic nature of the musical score, which evolves during battles, while SpazioGames praises the soundtrack for its ability to match the gameplay's intensity, transitioning from fast-paced tracks during combat to more serene melodies in calmer moments. Additionally, critics like Pocket Tactics and RPGamer commend the sound design for its vibrant action sounds and impactful audio elements that contribute to an immersive gameplay experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out shortcomings in the game’s sound design and music. XboxEra expresses disappointment over the lack of voice acting, which could have further enriched the narrative experience. Similarly, Gamer.no mentions that while the soundtrack is atmospheric and beautiful, it tends to become repetitive over time. TierraGamer also notes that while the soundtrack complements the action, it lacks memorable themes, suggesting that while the music fits the game, it doesn't necessarily stand out in a significant way. This sentiment is echoed by RPG Fan, who describes the music as decent but not particularly engaging. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story features a well-crafted soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience and atmosphere. Critics such as Shacknews and SomosXbox laud the music for its ability to adapt to various situations and accompany the narrative effectively. While some reviewers express a desire for more variety and voice acting, the majority agree that the sound design and music are strong aspects of the game that contribute positively to the overall experience. The combination of atmospheric compositions and impactful sound effects creates a compelling auditory landscape, making it a noteworthy element of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story features quality voice acting from original League of Legends actors, enhancing immersion and authenticity, especially for Spanish-speaking players. However, critics note the voice work is limited and lacks depth, leading to a mixed reception. While praised for its connection to the franchise, many feel the sparse implementation leaves players wanting more from the auditory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story has garnered some positive feedback from various critics, emphasizing the connection to the original League of Legends universe. IGN appreciates the familiarity of the voice elements, suggesting that even limited voice acting can be entertaining for fans. Similarly, Meristation highlights the authenticity brought by original actors from League of Legends, which adds a layer of credibility to the characters. Additionally, Vandal praises the Spanish localization, noting that the quality of voice acting is commendable, which enhances the overall experience for Spanish-speaking players. Moreover, SomosXbox points out that the unique dialogue lines for characters, voiced by the original actors, contribute significantly to the game's immersion. On the flip side, several reviewers have noted limitations in the voice acting. IGN mentions that the voice acting is "limited," which implies that players may not experience a fully voiced narrative. God is a Geek also observes that while some visuals are partially voiced, there is no specific mention of the quality of the voice acting, suggesting a lack of depth in this aspect. Meristation reinforces this by stating that the voice acting is confined to certain moments, indicating that players may not have a consistently engaging auditory experience throughout the game. This sentiment is echoed by Universo Nintendo, who acknowledges that while the game is fully translated and dubbed in Portuguese, it doesn't necessarily imply a rich or extensive voice acting experience. Overall, the critics present a mixed consensus regarding the voice acting in The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story. While there is appreciation for the authenticity and immersion provided by the original League of Legends actors, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment regarding the limited quantity of voice work. Critics like Vandal and Meristation highlight that while the quality is commendable, the sparse implementation may leave players wanting more. Consequently, while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's atmosphere, it appears that a more robust approach could have elevated the experience further.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story has mixed technical performance across platforms. PS5 and Xbox Series X users report smooth gameplay with only minor issues, while PC players experience some hiccups. In stark contrast, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from serious performance problems, including stuttering, crashes, and input delays, leading to a frustrating experience. Overall, while high-end consoles and PCs enjoy decent performance, the Switch version needs significant optimization to match.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

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

The technical performance of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story varies significantly across different platforms, with some positive feedback noted. On the PS5, critics like Multiplayer.it highlighted that while there are minor bugs, the overall performance is not heavily criticized. Similarly, Meristation noted that the game runs smoothly on PC, contributing to an enjoyable gameplay experience. On Xbox Series X, TheXboxHub found the performance to be great, with only minor issues reported. This suggests that the game performs relatively well on high-end consoles and PCs, providing a satisfactory experience for players on these platforms. However, the negatives are more pronounced, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Critics such as Comicbook.com and Nintendo Life reported significant performance issues, including noticeable stuttering, frame rate drops, and crashes, which detract from the overall experience. Universo Nintendo pointed out input delay and optimization issues, while Vandal echoed concerns about irregular frame rates and frequent crashes. On the PS5, Destructoid and GRYOnline.pl noted various glitches and minor flaws, including freezing enemies and occasional crashes. Meanwhile, PC players also reported technical hiccups, with RPGamer mentioning issues like audio stuttering and instances of enemies becoming unresponsive. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding technical performance across platforms. While high-end consoles and PCs generally provide a stable and enjoyable experience, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from substantial performance issues that impact gameplay. Critics like Comicbook.com and Nintendo Life express significant concerns about the Switch's performance, contrasting with the more favorable reviews from PS5 and Xbox Series X players. This disparity suggests that while the game has potential, it requires further optimization, particularly for the Nintendo Switch, to ensure a consistent experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story offers solid replayability with side quests, collectibles, and diverse spell loadouts, praised by critics like IGN and Gamers Heroes. However, many reviewers highlight shortcomings, including repetitive combat, limited side missions, and a lack of challenges, leading to a mixed consensus on its long-term appeal. While enjoyable, its linearity and shallow upgrade system may deter players from revisiting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

92%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics on the replay value of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story reveal several positive aspects that contribute to its overall appeal. Many reviewers, such as Gamers Heroes and IGN, highlight the presence of side quests, collectibles, and diverse spell loadouts that enhance replayability. Critics like Multiplayer.it emphasize the variety of allies and mission strategies available, suggesting that different playstyles can keep the experience fresh. Additionally, Comicbook.com appreciates the resource management and difficulty levels, indicating that players can experiment with various strategies and character builds, which can lead to a more engaging experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value that many reviewers have pointed out. COGconnected and Destructoid mention that while the main missions are captivating, the side missions can feel unnecessary or limited, which may deter players from revisiting the game. Critics like SpazioGames and Universo Nintendo express concerns about the lack of additional challenges or hidden elements, indicating that this could limit the game's long-term appeal. Furthermore, several reviewers, including Gamer.no and TheGamer, point out the repetitive nature of combat and level design, which can diminish the incentive to replay the game after the initial playthrough. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed sentiment towards the replay value of The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story. While there are elements that provide some replayability, such as side quests and skill upgrades, many reviewers agree that the game's linearity and repetitiveness may hinder its long-term engagement. Critics like Meristation and GamingBolt note that although the game is enjoyable, the lack of depth in the upgrade system and the repetitive gameplay loop can make it feel less rewarding to revisit. Thus, while the game has its merits, the limitations highlighted by multiple reviewers indicate that its replay value may not be as robust as players might hope.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is largely positive, with many critics praising its engaging action RPG experience and its successful expansion of the League of Legends lore. COGconnected highlights the game's ability to delve deeper into the franchise's narrative, while Destructoid appreciates the enjoyable spin-off that caters to both MOBA fans and newcomers. The combat system is frequently noted as a standout feature, with Gamers Heroes calling it "fantastic" and RPG Site praising the enjoyable pixel art. Additionally, the game's graphics and sound design receive commendation, with critics like XboxEra and But Why Tho? emphasizing the gorgeous visuals and immersive audio that enhance the gameplay experience. Despite the positive aspects, several reviewers point out notable flaws that detract from the game's overall quality. Repetitive gameplay is a common criticism, with Gameblog.fr and Vandal mentioning that the game suffers from design choices that hinder its potential. Critics like SpazioGames and RPGamer also note that the story's slow start and lack of depth in character motivations can be disappointing. Furthermore, some reviews, such as that from RPG Fan, express dissatisfaction with the game’s design and writing, suggesting that it lacks innovation and value for its price. These criticisms highlight a general concern about the game's repetitiveness and pacing issues. The consensus among critics is that while The Mageseeker offers a solid and entertaining experience, it is not without its shortcomings. Many reviewers, including IGN and Shacknews, recommend the game, particularly for fans of the League of Legends universe, citing its engaging story and enjoyable gameplay. However, the repetitive elements and design flaws noted by several critics indicate that the game could have reached greater heights with more refinement. Overall, the game is seen as a worthy addition to the League of Legends franchise, appealing to both fans and newcomers, yet it leaves room for improvement in its execution and depth.

TL;DR

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story garners mostly positive reviews for its engaging action RPG gameplay and expansion of the League of Legends lore, with standout combat and impressive visuals. However, critics point to repetitive gameplay, a slow-starting story, and shallow character motivations as notable flaws. While the game is recommended for fans of the franchise, it’s clear that it could have achieved more with better design and refinement. Overall, it’s a solid addition to the series but leaves room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

Shacknews

Apr 20, 2023

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

The review highly recommends The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story, stating that it is an incredible time and worth experiencing.

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IGN Portugal

Xbox Series X

Apr 20, 2023

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

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is likely to please fans of the League of Legends universe, even those who may initially reject it due to its art style. The reviewer is captivated by the story and recommends it to others.

Pocket Tactics

Nintendo Switch

Apr 14, 2023

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

The Mageseeker is a confident and satisfying action RPG that appeals to both League fans and newcomers. It features a solid combat system, great character development, and beautiful visuals.

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PC Gamer

Apr 18, 2023

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

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story offers a refreshing combination of high-octane action and bombastic political intrigue. With its engaging story, robust gameplay, excellent soundtrack, and vibrant pixel graphics, the game is well worth the time for those who enjoy this type of media.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Apr 19, 2023

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

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a highly recommended game with its strong gameplay, gorgeous visuals, and solid score. The only downsides are the slow progression of Sylas' strength and the lack of voice acting.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Apr 20, 2023

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

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a fantastic action RPG and a worthy spin-off. It is recommended for players who enjoy fast-paced top-down action.

God is a Geek

Apr 14, 2023

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

The review concludes that The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a solid action adventure game in its own right. It praises the game for its story, gameplay, and graphics, and states that it gives League of Legends new legs. Both fans and newcomers are said to have reasons to be excited about the future of League of Legends. The overall verdict is positive.

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GRYOnline.pl

PlayStation 5

Apr 21, 2023

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

The overall experience is highly recommended, especially considering the reasonable price. The reviewer rates the game 8.5 out of 10.

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TierraGamer

May 31, 2023

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

The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a well-balanced RPG that offers a fun experience, especially for fans of the League of Legends universe, despite lacking innovation in the genre.

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Gamereactor UK

Nintendo Switch

Apr 25, 2023

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

Despite its few shortcomings, The Mageseeker: A League of Legends Story is a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining title, suitable for both League of Legends fans and newcomers.

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