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Thirsty Suitors

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Thirsty Suitors
Item: Thirsty Suitors
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, RPG, Romance, Single Player

AvailableNov 2, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperOuterloop Games

Overview

Can Jala learn to love herself and heal the wounds of her past? Thirsty Suitors is a stylish, story-driven adventure that unfolds through turn-based battles, skateboarding, and cooking.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors garners mostly positive reviews for its heartfelt narrative, cultural depth, and strong representation of gender and sexuality, resonating with players seeking diverse stories. Critics praise protagonist Jala's journey and the blend of comedy with serious themes, but some point out issues with character development and pacing, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, the game is celebrated for its engaging themes of love and identity, marking it as a significant contribution to the gaming world despite its narrative flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Thirsty Suitors is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its heartfelt narrative and cultural nuances. GameSpot highlights the game's exploration of accountability and queer South Asian trauma, emphasizing its personal touch. Critics from Nintendo Life and Screen Rant commend the story for its heart, humor, and positive representation of gender and sexuality, which resonates with players seeking diverse narratives. Additionally, CGMagazine and Press Start Australia appreciate the protagonist Jala's journey of self-discovery and reconciliation, noting the game's ability to blend comedy with serious themes effectively. The narrative's focus on generational trauma and relationships, as noted by GamesRadar+ and PC Gamer, adds depth to the experience, making it relatable to many players. However, not all critics were entirely satisfied with the story's execution. NintendoWorldReport expressed concerns about the lack of depth and character development, suggesting that Jala feels somewhat stagnant throughout her journey. IGN echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the narrative attempts to cover too much ground, resulting in an overstuffed experience. While some critics, like But Why Tho?, acknowledged the heartfelt nature of the main story, they also noted disjointed elements that detracted from the overall flow. This mixed feedback indicates that while the story is engaging, it may not fully resonate with every player due to pacing and character development issues. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors offers a compelling and enjoyable narrative that successfully tackles complex themes of love, identity, and cultural expectations. Despite some criticisms regarding character depth and pacing, the majority of reviewers, such as Shacknews and TheXboxHub, found the story to be both entertaining and meaningful. The game stands out for its authentic representation of South Asian culture and the relatable struggles of its protagonist, making it a significant addition to the gaming landscape that resonates with a diverse audience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors mixes turn-based combat, skateboarding, and cooking in an innovative but uneven gameplay experience. Critics laud its thematic depth and humor, but many point out issues with execution, polish, and repetitiveness. While some find the mechanics engaging, others criticize the disjointed feel and tedious quick-time events, suggesting the game needs refinement to reach its potential. Overall, it’s a promising concept that struggles to deliver a cohesive and satisfying experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Thirsty Suitors has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its innovative blend of mechanics. Reviewers from GameSpot and TouchArcade highlight the integration of turn-based combat, skateboarding, and cooking tasks, noting that these elements create an engaging and fun experience. Critics like Metro GameCentral and IGN appreciate the thematic depth of the battles, which often feature humorous exchanges and emotional exploration, adding a unique flavor to the turn-based RPG format. The game’s combat system is noted for its engaging mechanics, with IGN mentioning the incorporation of precise timing and RPG elements that can enhance the player's experience. However, the gameplay also faces significant criticism, particularly regarding its depth and execution. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport express concerns about the lack of polish and disjointed feel of the mechanics, describing the combat as rote and the skateboarding controls as unwieldy. Many critics, including TheSixthAxis and Jeuxvideo.com, point out that the gameplay can become repetitive, with battles dragging on and the skating mechanics feeling underdeveloped. The reliance on quick-time events (QTEs) in both cooking and combat has been described as tedious by critics like God is a Geek and PC Gamer, indicating that while the game has potential, it often falls short in delivering a cohesive and engaging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Thirsty Suitors presents a promising blend of gameplay elements but struggles with execution and depth. While some reviewers, such as GameSpot and Screen Rant, find the combination of mechanics to be creatively integrated and engaging, others like Slant Magazine and Press Start Australia argue that the gameplay lacks variation and can feel simplistic. The game’s unique narrative and humorous dialogue are praised, yet many critics agree that the gameplay mechanics need refinement to elevate the overall experience. Thus, while Thirsty Suitors has its moments of brilliance, it is clear that the gameplay could benefit from further development to truly shine.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors dazzles with its vibrant cel-shaded art style, earning high praise for its unique visuals that enrich both character and environment. Critics hail it as a "visual feast," showcasing cultural representation through eye-catching design. However, minor graphical glitches and a potential disconnect between gameplay and visuals detract slightly from its impact. Overall, it stands out as a visually stunning game that captivates players with its artistic flair, despite some room for refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

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 Thirsty Suitors is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and unique aesthetic. GameSpot commends the cel-shaded art style, highlighting how the colorful environments enhance character models and effectively reflect the themes of boss battles. Nintendo Life echoes this sentiment, describing the visual style as a "visual feast" that adds flair to every action. Critics like TouchArcade and Metro GameCentral also emphasize the game's superb presentation, with detailed character designs and environments that stand out. The art direction is consistently noted for its expressiveness and cultural representation, with RPGamer and Hardcore Gamer specifically mentioning the game's ability to capture different cultural themes, including Indian and South African influences, through its vivid colors and cartoonish effects. Despite the widespread acclaim, some critics have pointed out minor drawbacks in the visual execution. RPGamer notes the presence of minor graphical glitches, which can detract from the otherwise polished experience. Digital Trends mentions a lack of polish despite the stylish and vibrant pop art style, suggesting that while the visuals are appealing, they could benefit from further refinement. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciate the artistic choices, some, like NintendoWorldReport, indicate that the gameplay mechanics may not fully complement the visual design, hinting at a disconnect between style and substance. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors excels in its graphics and visual design, successfully creating a colorful and engaging world that resonates with players. The majority of reviews highlight the game's artistic flair and cultural representation, with critics like Push Square and WellPlayed praising its striking visuals and inviting presentation. While there are minor criticisms regarding graphical polish and gameplay depth, the overall impression is that the game offers a visually stunning experience that enhances its narrative and thematic elements, making it a noteworthy title in the current gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors receives rave reviews for its standout sound design and music, blending traditional South Asian influences with modern indie vibes, enriching the gameplay and celebrating Indian-American culture. Critics laud the catchy soundtrack and engaging voice acting, though some note the protagonist's internal voice can be grating and the music style may not suit everyone's taste. Overall, the audio elements are considered a pivotal part of the game's immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Thirsty Suitors have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like GameSpot and Push Square praised the soundtrack for its ability to complement the gameplay effectively, with GameSpot highlighting memorable battle themes and boss tracks that enhance the overall experience. Critics such as CGMagazine and Hardcore Gamer emphasized the cultural richness of the music, noting its blend of traditional South Asian sounds with contemporary indie beats, which not only creates a unique audio experience but also serves to educate players about Indian-American culture. The voice acting has also received acclaim, with RPGamer and PC Invasion commending the strong performances that bring the game’s quirky narrative to life, further enhancing the immersive experience. Despite the overall praise, there are some critiques regarding specific elements of the sound design. IGN pointed out that while the fast-paced tabla beat adds excitement, the negative voice in the protagonist Jala's mind can become tiresome, suggesting that certain audio elements may detract from the enjoyment for some players. Additionally, while TouchArcade acknowledged the high quality of the sound design and music, the reviewer admitted to not being a fan of the specific music style, indicating that the soundtrack might not resonate with all players. These critiques, while not widespread, highlight that individual preferences can affect the perception of the game's audio elements. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Thirsty Suitors are of high quality and significantly contribute to the game's overall experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from Multiplayer.it and PC Gamer, agree that the soundtrack enhances the atmosphere and gameplay, with catchy tunes and culturally rich compositions that resonate well with the game's themes. While there are some minor criticisms regarding specific aspects of the audio, the overall sentiment is that Thirsty Suitors excels in its sound design and music, making it an integral part of the gaming experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Thirsty Suitors is a major highlight, praised for its engaging humor and character depth, with standout performances from Farah Merani as Jala. Critics laud its charm and diversity, enhancing the game's quirky dialogue. Minor criticisms on translation nuances exist, but they don't overshadow the overall acclaim—this voice work significantly elevates the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Thirsty Suitors has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging and humorous nature. GameSpot praises the interactions between Jala and her narrator, noting that they add depth to both character and story. Similarly, RPGamer commends Farah Merani's performance, emphasizing how she effectively conveys Jala's sharp wit and humor throughout the game. Critics from TheSixthAxis and WellPlayed also echo this sentiment, describing the voiceovers as charming and delightful, which brings the eccentric characters to life and enhances the barbed exchanges between them. Furthermore, PC Invasion and Checkpoint Gaming laud the impressive performances that not only bring humor to the dialogue but also reflect the diverse backgrounds of the characters, showcasing a commendable effort in character representation. Despite the overall praise, there are some minor criticisms regarding the voice acting. Multiplayer.it mentions that while the voice acting is well-characterized, the translation may not fully capture all nuances, which could detract from the experience for some players. This suggests that while the performances themselves are strong, the localization process may leave some gaps in conveying the full intent of the dialogue. However, this concern is relatively isolated compared to the broader acclaim the voice acting has received. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Thirsty Suitors is a standout feature of the game, contributing significantly to its charm and humor. The majority of reviewers, including IGN and RPG Fan, appreciate the authentic representation of characters and the engaging performances that breathe life into the dialogue. While there are some concerns about translation nuances, they do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment expressed by critics, who agree that the voice acting elevates the gaming experience and complements the game's themes effectively.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors delivers an engaging experience across platforms but is marred by technical issues. The Nintendo Switch excels in accessibility but suffers from long load times and bugs. The PC version struggles with clunky controls and frame rate dips, while the PS5 has minor glitches. Xbox Series X stands out for smooth performance. Critics agree the game has redeeming qualities, making it worth considering despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

90%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Thirsty Suitors varies across different gaming platforms, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. On the Nintendo Switch, critics like GameSpot and Nintendo Life noted the inclusion of accessibility options that enhance the player experience, which is a positive aspect. While GameSpot acknowledged that the initial mechanics might feel overwhelming, the overall sentiment remains that the game offers features that can make it more enjoyable for a diverse audience. Similarly, The Games Machine highlighted that the game runs smoothly on Xbox Series X, suggesting a solid performance on that platform. However, the negatives for each platform reveal some significant concerns. On the Nintendo Switch, TouchArcade pointed out longer load times and blurry textures, while Nintendo Life mentioned small bugs such as incorrect enemy voices and getting stuck behind walls. These issues, while minor, contribute to a less-than-ideal experience. For the PC version, critics like CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it reported clunky controls and frame rate dips during skateboarding sections, which can lead to motion sickness and affect gameplay fluidity. Additionally, Twinfinite noted minor bugs, including audio issues and missing character portraits, which further detract from the overall experience. RPGamer's mention of minor graphical glitches on PS5 also indicates that no platform is entirely free from technical shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Thirsty Suitors offers a unique and engaging experience across all platforms, technical performance issues are a common theme. The Nintendo Switch version struggles with load times and bugs, while the PC version faces control and fluidity challenges. On the other hand, the Xbox Series X stands out for its smooth performance. Critics like TouchArcade and CGMagazine emphasize that despite these technical flaws, the game still has redeeming qualities, such as accessibility features and engaging gameplay, which may appeal to players willing to overlook some of the technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors boasts compelling narrative choices and engaging characters that could entice players to replay it, as praised by critics like GameSpot and Multiplayer.it. However, concerns over repetitive gameplay and limited exploration—cited by Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com—could dampen replay motivation. The game offers depth but risks leaving players feeling a single run is enough, appealing primarily to those who prioritize story over dynamic gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

87%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions surrounding the replay value of Thirsty Suitors reveal a range of positive aspects that could entice players to revisit the game. Critics like GameSpot highlight the variety of builds and dialogue choices that can significantly alter outcomes, suggesting that players might enjoy exploring different narrative paths. Multiplayer.it echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the variety of choices that lead to distinct narrative experiences, which can encourage replaying the game. Additionally, Nintendo Life points out that while the main story is relatively short, the inclusion of skateboarding challenges and side quests provides ample content for those looking to extend their playtime. This blend of engaging characters and creative mechanics, noted by Screen Rant, adds to the overall appeal of experiencing the game multiple times. However, several critics express concerns regarding the game's replay value due to its repetitive gameplay mechanics and limited exploration. Metro GameCentral mentions that the game's structure can feel monotonous towards the end, which may deter players from wanting to replay it. Jeuxvideo.com also highlights the limited replay value stemming from repetitive activities, suggesting that the novelty may wear off quickly. Critics like Press Start Australia note that while there are additional systems in place, such as collecting items and defeating exes, these elements feel more like distractions rather than engaging features that enhance replayability. The general consensus from these reviews indicates that while there are some appealing aspects, the potential for replay is hampered by repetitive gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed when it comes to the replay value of Thirsty Suitors. While some reviewers, like GameSpot and Multiplayer.it, emphasize the variety of choices and engaging characters that could encourage multiple playthroughs, others, such as Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com, point out the game's repetitive nature and limited exploration that could diminish the desire to replay. This dichotomy suggests that while the game has the potential for replay value through its narrative depth and character interactions, the execution may leave some players feeling that a single playthrough is sufficient. As a result, Thirsty Suitors may appeal to those who enjoy narrative exploration but could fall short for players seeking a more dynamic and varied gameplay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Thirsty Suitors is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its rich narrative and cultural representation. GameSpot highlights the game's successful blend of diverse gameplay mechanics with a compelling story that celebrates South Asian culture, while Screen Rant describes it as a delightful experience that combines storytelling and creativity. Critics like Push Square and PC Gamer commend the game's visual style and heartfelt writing, noting its ability to tackle heavy themes with humor and compassion. The character design and the engaging narrative are frequently mentioned as standout features, with many reviewers, including RPGamer and Shacknews, emphasizing the game's emotional depth and memorable characters. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay mechanics, which many reviewers feel are lacking in depth and polish. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport express disappointment over the gameplay's repetitiveness and the underdevelopment of certain mechanics, suggesting that while the story and characters shine, the gameplay does not live up to the same standard. Critics such as CGMagazine and PC Invasion point out issues with combat and certain mini-games, like skateboarding, which detract from the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by Slant Magazine and Jeuxvideo.com, who also mention that while the writing is strong, the gameplay mechanics are often middling or stagnant. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors is a unique and charming game that successfully conveys its narrative and cultural themes, despite its gameplay shortcomings. While some critics, like Eurogamer, appreciate its exploration of romantic mishaps and queer identities, others, such as Digital Trends and Hardcore Gamer, acknowledge the ambition behind the game's design. The game's heart and soul, as noted by RPG Fan, make it a worthwhile experience, even if it doesn't fully deliver on its gameplay promises. Ultimately, Thirsty Suitors stands out for its storytelling and cultural significance, making it a recommended play for those interested in its themes, despite the mechanical flaws that some critics highlight.

TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors receives praise for its rich narrative and cultural representation, blending diverse gameplay with a compelling story that celebrates South Asian culture. Critics laud its emotional depth, standout characters, and heartfelt writing while noting its vibrant visual style. However, the gameplay mechanics are criticized for being repetitive and lacking polish, with issues in combat and mini-games detracting from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, the game's strong storytelling and cultural themes make it a worthwhile play, especially for those drawn to its unique exploration of romantic mishaps and queer identities.

MONSTER

Reviews

45 reviews found

RPG Fan

Nov 2, 2023

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

The review highly praises Thirsty Suitors, calling it one of the best games the reviewer has played all year. The game's authentic South Asian representation, diverse gameplay elements, and the reviewer's personal connection to it are highlighted.

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GameSpot

Nintendo Switch

Nov 15, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors successfully blends diverse gameplay mechanics with a rich narrative, celebrating South Asian culture while providing an engaging and humorous experience.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Nov 1, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is an explosive, chaotic, and utterly delightful experience from beginning to end.

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Siliconera

Nov 3, 2023

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

A true hidden gem with a thoughtful and whimsical story, relatable characters, and polished gameplay.

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The Games Machine

Xbox Series X

Nov 13, 2023

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

The review recommends Thirsty Suitors for players in their thirties who have many exes and have finished recent games like Alan Wake 2. The game is described as engaging, entertaining, and having a unique game design that combines real-life events with exploration.

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Oyungezer

Dec 26, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is a colorful and engaging game that successfully blends various cultural elements, despite some mechanical shortcomings. It is recommended for those interested in its themes.

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PC Gamer

Nov 1, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is a standout game with a well-crafted story, stylish gameplay, and visually stunning battles. It tackles heavy subjects with compassion and humor, making it one of the reviewer's favorite games of the year.

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GamesRadar+

Nov 1, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is a game that tells a compelling and important story, with engaging gameplay mechanics. It is a game worth experiencing.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is a joy to play through, with a deep and relevant story, unique gameplay mechanics, visually striking graphics, and a well-complemented soundtrack. The clunky controls for the skating mini-game are a minor drawback. Overall, it is a highly enjoyable experience.

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Eurogamer

Xbox Series X

Nov 1, 2023

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

Thirsty Suitors is a confident and unique game that explores romantic mishaps and queer identities. It provides entertaining encounters and makes players reflect on their own dating history. The game's visual design and style are impressive, although the skateboarding aspect feels disconnected. Overall, it is a worthwhile experience.

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