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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, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, 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

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors receives a warm reception for its heartfelt, culturally rich narrative that deftly navigates themes of reconciliation, queer South Asian trauma, and self-discovery, with critics praising its blend of humor and emotional depth. Protagonist Jala's relatable journey resonates with players, but some reviewers note shortcomings in her character development and narrative cohesion. Despite these critiques, the game stands out for its authentic representation and engaging storytelling, marking it as a significant addition to the gaming landscape.

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 and culturally nuanced narrative. Reviewers from outlets like GameSpot and Nintendo Life highlighted the game's exploration of themes such as reconciliation, queer South Asian trauma, and the importance of self-discovery. The narrative's blend of humor with serious undertones is also noted, with critics like RPGamer and Press Start Australia commending its balance of comedy and emotional depth. The game’s protagonist, Jala, is frequently described as relatable and likable, with her journey of confronting past relationships resonating with many players. Critics like Shacknews and Siliconera appreciated the engaging writing and the way it tackles complex themes of love, acceptance, and generational trauma, making it a unique addition to the gaming landscape. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the story's depth and character development. For instance, NintendoWorldReport expressed that Jala's character felt somewhat stagnant throughout the experience, lacking the growth one might expect from her journey. IGN echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the narrative sometimes feels overstuffed, trying to cover too many themes at once. Additionally, But Why Tho? mentioned that while the main story is heartfelt, it can feel disjointed at times. These critiques highlight a concern that, while the story is engaging, it may not fully capitalize on its potential for deeper character exploration and narrative cohesion. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors offers a compelling and entertaining narrative that resonates with players, particularly through its authentic representation of South Asian culture and queer identity. While some critiques regarding character depth and narrative pacing exist, the majority of reviewers, including those from CGMagazine and Eurogamer, celebrate the game for its humor, emotional weight, and relatable themes. The positive reception underscores the game's ability to connect with players on a personal level, making it a noteworthy title in the realm of storytelling within video games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors impresses with its inventive mix of turn-based combat, skateboarding, and cooking, earning praise for creativity and narrative depth. However, critics highlight significant flaws, citing shallow gameplay, clumsy skateboarding controls, and repetitive combat that detracts from the overall experience. While the game shows promise, the execution ultimately falls flat, leading to a fun yet unsatisfying gaming 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 critics, particularly for its innovative blend of genres. Reviewers like GameSpot and TouchArcade commend the engaging integration of turn-based combat, skateboarding mechanics, and cooking tasks, highlighting the creativity in how these elements are woven into the narrative. Critics from IGN and Metro GameCentral appreciate the thematic depth of the turn-based battles, especially the humorous and surprising encounters with exes, suggesting that the game successfully combines fun mechanics with an engaging story. The unique approach to combat, with its emphasis on timing and strategic elements, has also been noted positively by several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and Eurogamer, who found the combat system stylish and enjoyable. However, not all feedback is positive, as many critics point out significant shortcomings in the gameplay mechanics. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport criticize the lack of depth and polish in the gameplay, with the combat feeling rote and the skateboarding controls described as unwieldy. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Jeuxvideo.com echo this sentiment, noting that while the combat can be entertaining, it often becomes tedious and repetitive, especially with the extended length of battles. Additionally, the skateboarding mechanics have been labeled as underwhelming and clunky by several reviewers, including CGMagazine and Press Start Australia, indicating that they detract from the overall experience rather than enhance it. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Thirsty Suitors presents a promising concept with its hybrid gameplay, but ultimately falls short in execution. While there are moments of creativity and fun, as noted by critics like Checkpoint Gaming and The Games Machine, the gameplay suffers from a lack of depth and polish, leading to a repetitive experience. The combination of turn-based combat, cooking, and skateboarding has potential, but as highlighted by many, including Slant Magazine and God is a Geek, the execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a gameplay experience that, while occasionally enjoyable, often feels simplistic and lacking in variation.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors dazzles with its vibrant cel-shaded graphics and unique aesthetic, receiving widespread praise for its stunning visuals and cultural representation. Critics commend its artistic direction, which enhances gameplay and resonates with players. However, minor graphical glitches and a lack of polish have raised concerns about execution. Despite these issues, the overwhelming consensus is that its visuals are a standout feature, making it a must-play in the gaming landscape.

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. Reviewers from various platforms, including GameSpot and Nintendo Life, highlight the game's cel-shaded art style and colorful environments, which enhance the character models and effectively reflect the themes of each boss battle. Critics like TouchArcade and Metro GameCentral commend the stunning visuals and superb presentation, noting that the art direction is not only visually appealing but also enhances the overall gaming experience. The game's ability to incorporate cultural representation and unique animations, as mentioned by NintendoWorldReport and Hardcore Gamer, further emphasizes its artistic merit, making it a visual feast that stands out in the gaming landscape. Despite the acclaim, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks in the visual execution. RPGamer noted the presence of minor graphical glitches that detracted from the overall polish of the game. Additionally, Digital Trends mentioned a lack of polish in the stylish and vibrant pop art style, suggesting that while the design is eye-catching, it may not be fully refined. Twinfinite also highlighted a bug related to character portraits that affected the Suitor Status menu, indicating that technical issues could undermine the otherwise impressive visual experience. These critiques suggest that while the art direction is strong, there are areas where the execution could be improved. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its vibrant and theatrical aesthetic. The game successfully combines elements of cultural representation with a whimsical and expressive style, as noted by critics like WellPlayed and Jeuxvideo.com. The art direction, which draws from various influences, including Indian art and anime, creates a theatrical experience that resonates with players. While there are some minor technical issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game's visuals contribute significantly to its charm and appeal, making it a standout title in terms of graphic design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors excels in sound design and music, receiving widespread acclaim for its engaging soundtrack that fuses traditional South Asian sounds with modern indie beats, enhancing gameplay and narrative immersion. Critics praise the strong voice acting that brings characters to life, though some note minor issues with personal resonance and repetitive elements. Overall, the audio experience is a standout feature, elevating the game and making it a must-play for fans of innovative soundscapes.

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 widespread acclaim from critics, who have praised its ability to enhance the overall gaming experience. Reviewers from various platforms, including GameSpot and Push Square, highlighted how the music complements gameplay, with memorable battle themes and a soundtrack that seamlessly integrates with the narrative. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and CGMagazine specifically noted the unique blend of traditional South Asian sounds with modern indie beats, creating an engaging and culturally rich audio backdrop. The voice acting was also frequently commended, with RPGamer and PC Invasion pointing out the strong performances that bring the game's characters and story to life, further elevating the experience. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics expressed minor reservations. TouchArcade acknowledged the high quality of the sound design and music but mentioned a personal disconnect with the music style. Additionally, IGN pointed out that while the fast-paced beats in cooking sequences added drama, the negative voice in the protagonist Jala's mind could become tiresome. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is generally effective, there are elements that may not resonate with every player, indicating a slight inconsistency in personal taste. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Thirsty Suitors. The majority of reviewers agree that the soundtrack and sound effects significantly enhance the game's atmosphere and narrative. Critics like Multiplayer.it and PC Gamer emphasized how the music complements the gameplay and cultural context, contributing positively to the overall experience. With a unique blend of genres and high-quality voice acting, Thirsty Suitors stands out as a well-crafted audio experience that resonates with players, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Thirsty Suitors has received widespread acclaim for its engaging and humorous performances, particularly highlighting Farah Merani's portrayal of Jala. Critics praise the charming interactions and authentic representation of diverse characters, though some minor critiques suggest translation issues may obscure nuances for non-native players. Overall, the voice acting is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game's appeal, contributing to its charm and humor.

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 garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging and humorous nature. GameSpot praises the interactions between Jala and her narrator, noting how these exchanges deepen both character and story. Similarly, RPGamer commends Farah Merani's performance, emphasizing her ability to convey Jala's sharp wit and humor effectively. Critics from multiple platforms, including TheSixthAxis and WellPlayed, echo these sentiments, describing the voiceovers as charming and delightful, which enhances the eccentricity of the characters. Additionally, the representation of non-white characters has been positively noted by IGN, who appreciates the respectful use of accents, while Multiplayer.it praises the well-characterized voice acting that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the cast without resorting to stereotypes. Despite the overall acclaim, there are minor critiques regarding the voice acting in Thirsty Suitors. Multiplayer.it mentions that while the voice acting is strong, the translation may not fully capture all nuances, suggesting that some subtleties might be lost for players who are not fluent in the original language. This point indicates a potential barrier for non-native speakers or those unfamiliar with cultural references embedded in the dialogue. However, such critiques are relatively sparse compared to the overall praise, indicating that while there are areas for improvement, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Thirsty Suitors is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game. With the majority of reviewers, including PC Invasion and RPG Fan, praising the impressive performances that bring the vibrant cast to life, it is clear that the voice acting contributes positively to the game's charm and humor. The combination of engaging dialogue and authentic representation has resonated well with players, affirming that the voice acting is not only good but an integral part of the game's appeal. Overall, Thirsty Suitors is recognized for its strong voice performances, making it a noteworthy aspect of the gaming experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The Switch boasts accessibility features but suffers from long load times and blurry textures, while minor bugs exist. The Xbox Series X delivers a smooth experience, and the PS5 has only slight graphical glitches. However, the PC version faces serious issues, including clunky controls and frame rate dips that can cause motion sickness. Overall, while engaging elements exist, technical flaws hinder full enjoyment, especially on Switch and PC, suggesting the need for further refinement.

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, with some notable positives highlighted by critics. On the Nintendo Switch, GameSpot appreciates the inclusion of accessibility options that enhance the player experience, indicating a thoughtful approach to design. Additionally, despite minor bugs reported by Nintendo Life, such as incorrect enemy voices and occasional glitches where players get stuck, these issues are deemed minor and do not significantly detract from the gameplay. On the Xbox Series X, The Games Machine notes that the game runs smoothly, suggesting that this platform offers a solid experience without major technical hitches. Meanwhile, on the PS5, RPGamer mentions only minor graphical glitches, which do not overshadow the overall enjoyment of the game. However, there are several negatives regarding technical performance across the platforms. The Nintendo Switch version is criticized for longer load times and blurry textures, as noted by TouchArcade, which could impact the overall immersion. On PC, multiple critics, including CGMagazine and Multiplayer.it, point out issues with clunky controls during skateboarding sections and frame rate dips that can lead to discomfort. CGMagazine specifically mentions that these performance issues can cause motion sickness, indicating a significant flaw in the gameplay experience. Furthermore, Twinfinite highlights minor bugs such as audio hiccups and missing character portraits, which further contribute to a less polished experience on PC. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Thirsty Suitors offers some engaging elements and accessibility features, the technical performance varies widely across platforms. The Nintendo Switch and PC versions face notable challenges, including bugs and performance issues, which detract from the overall experience. In contrast, the Xbox Series X and PS5 versions appear to provide a more stable and enjoyable gameplay experience. Critics like TouchArcade and RPGamer underscore the importance of these technical aspects, indicating that while the game has potential, it may require further refinement to fully satisfy players across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors garners mixed reviews on replay value: Critics praise its diverse builds and engaging narrative choices as potential hooks for multiple playthroughs, but many also point out repetitive gameplay and a short main story (around 10 hours) that may limit long-term appeal. While some players might enjoy revisiting for different outcomes, the overall consensus leans towards a lack of compelling reasons to replay, making it a hit-or-miss experience.

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 regarding the replay value of Thirsty Suitors present a mixed yet somewhat optimistic view among critics. Several reviewers, such as GameSpot and Multiplayer.it, highlight the game's diverse builds, dialogue choices, and narrative paths that encourage players to explore different experiences. GameSpot specifically notes that the ability to change outcomes through various choices adds depth and invites replayability. Additionally, Nintendo Life points out that while the main story can be completed in a reasonable ten hours, the inclusion of skateboarding challenges and side quests extends the gameplay, making it feel well-paced and appropriately lengthy for those seeking more content. On the flip side, several critics express concerns about the game's limited replay value due to repetitive mechanics and a lack of engaging gameplay elements. Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com both emphasize the repetitiveness of the gameplay, suggesting that the structure can feel monotonous, especially towards the end. Critics like God is a Geek and Press Start Australia also mention that while there are various systems in place, they do not significantly enhance the overall experience, often feeling like distractions rather than meaningful additions. The short length of the game, noted by RPGamer and Siliconera, further contributes to the sentiment that while the game is enjoyable, it may not offer enough incentive for multiple playthroughs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors has a foundation that could support replayability through its narrative choices and character interactions, as noted by critics like Oyungezer and PC Gamer. However, the repetitive nature of gameplay mechanics and the relatively short length of the game seem to hinder its potential for extensive replay value. While some players may find enjoyment in revisiting the game for different outcomes, the overarching sentiment suggests that the experience may not be compelling enough to warrant multiple playthroughs for everyone.

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 towards Thirsty Suitors is largely positive, with many critics praising its narrative depth, cultural representation, and visual style. GameSpot highlights the game's successful blend of diverse gameplay mechanics and a rich narrative, celebrating South Asian culture with humor and engagement. Similarly, IGN commends the game for its boundary-breaking storytelling and character design, while Push Square appreciates its deep and relevant story, unique gameplay mechanics, and striking graphics. Critics such as PC Gamer and Shacknews also emphasize the game's compassionate exploration of heavy subjects and memorable characters, suggesting that the narrative is a standout feature that resonates with players. However, several reviewers pointed out significant shortcomings in the gameplay mechanics, which detracted from the overall experience. Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport noted a lack of depth in gameplay, with the latter expressing disappointment in character development. Critics like CGMagazine and Jeuxvideo.com echoed these sentiments, pointing out issues such as repetitive combat and stagnant gameplay. Even though the game is visually impressive and culturally rich, many reviewers, including Digital Trends and PC Invasion, mentioned that the gameplay often lacks polish and depth, which can lead to a less engaging experience. Despite the mixed opinions regarding gameplay, the consensus among critics is that Thirsty Suitors is a unique and worthwhile experience, particularly for those interested in its themes and cultural representation. The game's heartfelt narrative and charming characters resonate strongly, as noted by RPGamer and TheXboxHub, who highlight the emotional connection players can form with the story. While some critics, such as Slant Magazine and Eurogamer, acknowledge the game's mechanical flaws, they still recognize its confidence and unique approach to storytelling. Overall, Thirsty Suitors is seen as a delightful exploration of romance and identity, making it a memorable addition to the gaming landscape, despite its gameplay shortcomings.

TL;DR

Thirsty Suitors garners mostly positive reviews for its rich narrative, cultural representation, and stunning visuals, celebrated by outlets like GameSpot and IGN for its unique storytelling and character design. However, critics like Nintendo Life highlight significant gameplay flaws, including repetitive mechanics and lack of depth. Despite these issues, many agree that the heartfelt narrative and relatable characters make it a unique experience worth exploring, particularly for fans of its themes. Overall, it’s a charming but imperfect game that stands out in the gaming landscape.

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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