78
MONSTER
Storybook characters discover a three-dimensional world outside the pages of their book and must jump between 2D & 3D realms to save their friends in this charming action-adventure.
Game analysis
Monster Scorecard
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Story and Narrative
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84
The Plucky Squire dazzles with whimsical, metafictional storytelling and charming fourth-wall breaks, blending children’s book charm with postmodern twists—yet critics call it shallow, predictable, and formulaic, relying on tired fairy tales without depth. A divisive standout: praised for playful creativity and accessibility, but lacking complexity for those seeking maturity.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY
Story Score
84
Positive Reviews (80-100)
79%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
20%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
2%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.
TL;DR
story and narrative
The Plucky Squire dazzles with whimsical, metafictional storytelling and charming fourth-wall breaks, blending children’s book charm with postmodern twists—yet critics call it shallow, predictable, and formulaic, relying on tired fairy tales without depth. A divisive standout: praised for playful creativity and accessibility, but lacking complexity for those seeking maturity.
Gameplay Mechanics
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76
A clever, creative 2D/3D hybrid with inventive puzzles and genre-blending charm, The Plucky Squire dazzles with its imaginative storybook world and twists. But its simplistic, repetitive gameplay, technical glitches, and lack of depth—labeled "dull," "boring," and "game-breaking"—sink its potential, leaving it feeling shallow and aimed at younger players. Fresh start, but struggles to deliver lasting challenge.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY
Gameplay Score
76
Positive Reviews (80-100)
40%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
55%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
4%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.
TL;DR
gameplay mechanics
A clever, creative 2D/3D hybrid with inventive puzzles and genre-blending charm, The Plucky Squire dazzles with its imaginative storybook world and twists. But its simplistic, repetitive gameplay, technical glitches, and lack of depth—labeled "dull," "boring," and "game-breaking"—sink its potential, leaving it feeling shallow and aimed at younger players. Fresh start, but struggles to deliver lasting challenge.
Graphics and Visual Design
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92
The Plucky Squire’s hand-drawn, storybook visuals are a triumph, blending whimsical 2D charm with seamless 3D transitions. While 3D sections face technical hiccups and lack polish, they’re minor blemishes in an otherwise stunning, immersive experience that captivates with its exquisite artistry and fairy-tale magic.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS
Visual Score
92
Positive Reviews (80-100)
91%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
8%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
2%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.
TL;DR
graphics and visual design
The Plucky Squire’s hand-drawn, storybook visuals are a triumph, blending whimsical 2D charm with seamless 3D transitions. While 3D sections face technical hiccups and lack polish, they’re minor blemishes in an otherwise stunning, immersive experience that captivates with its exquisite artistry and fairy-tale magic.
Music and Sound Design
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81
Critics rave about The Plucky Squire's immersive, '80s-inspired soundtrack and sound design, calling it catchy, atmospheric, and integral to gameplay. A few note forgettable music, minimal narration, and lack of voice acting in some versions. Overall, audio remains a standout, charm-filled element despite minor critiques.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN
Sound Score
81
Positive Reviews (80-100)
73%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
23%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
3%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.
TL;DR
music and sound design
Critics rave about The Plucky Squire's immersive, '80s-inspired soundtrack and sound design, calling it catchy, atmospheric, and integral to gameplay. A few note forgettable music, minimal narration, and lack of voice acting in some versions. Overall, audio remains a standout, charm-filled element despite minor critiques.
Voice Acting
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79
The Plucky Squire’s voice acting shines with Philip Bretherton’s masterful, nostalgic narration (comparable to Stephen Fry) and charming localized performances, elevating its storybook charm. However, critics warn the repetitive, unskippable dialogue may annoy some, while the lack of character voices and single-narrator reliance risks feeling restrictive. Overall, it’s a standout asset, but its impact hinges on player tolerance for its frequency and style.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING
Acting Score
79
Positive Reviews (80-100)
64%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
32%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
5%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.
TL;DR
voice acting
The Plucky Squire’s voice acting shines with Philip Bretherton’s masterful, nostalgic narration (comparable to Stephen Fry) and charming localized performances, elevating its storybook charm. However, critics warn the repetitive, unskippable dialogue may annoy some, while the lack of character voices and single-narrator reliance risks feeling restrictive. Overall, it’s a standout asset, but its impact hinges on player tolerance for its frequency and style.
Technical Performance
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68
The Plucky Squire delivers mixed tech performance: PC and PS5 shine with smooth, stable play (minor hiccups), Xbox Series X edges through minor glitches, but Nintendo Switch crashes, stutters, and lags like a broken clock. Bugs plague all platforms, but Switch’s frame drops, loading issues, and fuzzy 3D visuals make it the worst port. Core charm saves it, but technical flaws hit hardest where it matters most.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE
Tech Score
68
Positive Reviews (80-100)
27%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
57%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
16%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.
TL;DR
technical performance
The Plucky Squire delivers mixed tech performance: PC and PS5 shine with smooth, stable play (minor hiccups), Xbox Series X edges through minor glitches, but Nintendo Switch crashes, stutters, and lags like a broken clock. Bugs plague all platforms, but Switch’s frame drops, loading issues, and fuzzy 3D visuals make it the worst port. Core charm saves it, but technical flaws hit hardest where it matters most.
Replay Value
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65
The Plucky Squire’s whimsical charm and collectibles lure casual players, but its linear, repetitive design and short 6-10 hour run sink replay value—calling it a fleeting, lighthearted adventure, not a deep or challenging experience.
SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE
Replay Score
65
Positive Reviews (80-100)
6%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
87%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
6%
Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.
TL;DR
replay value
The Plucky Squire’s whimsical charm and collectibles lure casual players, but its linear, repetitive design and short 6-10 hour run sink replay value—calling it a fleeting, lighthearted adventure, not a deep or challenging experience.
Overall Verdict
78
MONSTER
OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION
Monster Score
78
Positive Reviews (80-100)
80%
Mixed Reviews (50-79)
20%
Negative Reviews (0-49)
0%
Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.
TL;DR
The Plucky Squire dazzles with whimsical visuals, inventive 2D/3D platforming, and nostalgic storytelling, hailed as a "hidden gem" and "must-play for kids." But technical glitches, shallow combat, and predictable gameplay undermine its polish. Still, its charm and creativity make it a standout indie, worth playing despite imperfections.
78
MONSTER
Reviews
193 reviews found100
CGMagazine
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is described as charming, offering a unique and enjoyable experience for fans of action-adventure games and Nintendo properties.
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100
Windows Central
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a charming and family-friendly game that is accessible and approachable for most ages, potentially being one of the best games for kids and adults in the future.
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100
Twinfinite
Sep 18, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is praised for its excellent art direction, charming characters, inventive gameplay mechanics, and unique storytelling twist, but criticized for the short length of the adventure and the limited use of some gameplay elements.
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91
Player 2
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is praised for its excellence in gameplay, storytelling, and production qualities. It successfully delivers on its ambitious blend of 2D and 3D platforming, multiple gameplay systems, and engaging narrative. While not perfect, it stands out as an instant classic that keeps players engaged and wanting more.
91
MeuPlayStation
Sep 18, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a charming and immersive adventure that combines a heartfelt story with creative gameplay mechanics, making it a worthy title for players of all ages.
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90
ComicBook
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a refreshing and inventive game that appeals to a wide audience, making it highly recommended for both adults and children.
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90
Try Hard Guides
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a brilliantly creative game with unique presentation, engaging storytelling, nostalgic gameplay, and great characters, making it enjoyable for all ages and definitely worth checking out.
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90
XboxAddict
Oct 18, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a delightful adventure that combines charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and a whimsical story, making it a joy for both children and adults, despite its simplicity.
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90
GamingBolt
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is a magical experience that unfolds into a unique adventure with plenty of heart. Despite some minor drawbacks like characters feeling two-dimensional and the game being less challenging, its compelling plot, tight pacing, excellent variety of gameplay sequences, solid controls, and gorgeous aesthetic make it a standout title.
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90
GameSpew
Sep 17, 2024
AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details
The Plucky Squire is praised for its stunning visuals, clever puzzles, engaging gameplay, and the unique experience of moving between 2D and 3D worlds. Despite encountering some bugs, the game is described as excellent, funny, clever, impeccably designed, and a pleasure to play.
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