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Trek to Yomi

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Trek to Yomi
Item: Trek to Yomi
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Side View Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMay 5, 2022

PlatformXbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperFlying Wild Hog

Overview

As a vow to his dying Master, the young swordsman Hiroki is sworn to protect his town and the people he loves against all threats. Faced with tragedy and bound to duty, the lone samurai must voyage beyond life and death to confront himself and decide his path forward.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Trek to Yomi dazzles with stunning visuals and pays homage to classic samurai cinema, engaging players with themes of honor and revenge. However, critics largely agree that its story is predictable, one-dimensional, and lacks depth, with a flat protagonist and minimal character development. While it offers moments of emotional resonance, the narrative ultimately falls short, relying on familiar tropes and leaving those craving complexity feeling unsatisfied. It’s a feast for the eyes but a famine for storytelling enthusiasts.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Trek to Yomi has received some praise for its homage to classic samurai cinema and its ability to engage players with themes of honor, revenge, and personal sacrifice. Critics like Xbox Tavern highlighted the emotional depth and rich detail in the narrative, emphasizing that it reflects the essence of traditional Japanese storytelling. Similarly, Player 2 commended the game for successfully translating the aesthetics of black and white samurai films into the gaming medium, providing a visually captivating experience. The narrative's incorporation of choices that can influence the ending, as noted by The Enemy and Digital Trends, adds an interactive layer that allows players to feel more connected to the protagonist, Hiroki, and his journey. However, the majority of reviewers have criticized the story for its lack of depth and predictability. Critics such as BaziCenter and Game Revolution pointed out that the plot feels one-dimensional, with a flat protagonist and a narrative that fails to engage on a deeper level. Many reviews echoed similar sentiments, describing the antagonist as generically evil and the overall story as simplistic. Game Informer and MeuPlayStation noted that the character development is minimal, leading to a superficial experience that doesn't resonate with players. Additionally, some reviewers like The Loadout and Gamer.no mentioned that the narrative can become convoluted or confusing, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Trek to Yomi presents a visually stunning homage to samurai films, its narrative suffers from predictability and a lack of complexity. Many reviewers, including IGN and Game Rant, found the story to be straightforward and uninspiring, often relying on familiar tropes without offering significant twists or character development. Critics like Malditos Nerds and PCMag pointed out that despite some interesting moments, the reliance on common revenge themes ultimately leaves the narrative feeling unoriginal. This combination of praise for its aesthetic presentation and criticism of its storytelling depth suggests that while Trek to Yomi may appeal to fans of the genre, it may not satisfy those looking for a more nuanced and engaging narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Trek to Yomi delivers mixed gameplay experiences, praised for its timing-driven combat but plagued by repetitive mechanics and clunky controls. Critics highlight engaging combat evolution and enemy variety, yet many find it tedious and lacking depth, often relying on the same combos. While it offers moments of enjoyment, the overall consensus is that the gameplay struggles to meet the narrative and aesthetic expectations, leaving players unsatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

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

The gameplay of Trek to Yomi has garnered a mixed reception among critics, with some reviewers highlighting its engaging aspects. For instance, critics from Hardcore Gamer and Checkpoint Gaming praised the combat system for its emphasis on timing and resource management, noting that it offers a variety of moves that unlock as the story progresses. Additionally, Game Rant found the combat to shine with a unique twist on side-scrolling fighting, suggesting that the inclusion of combat skills and enemy variety adds depth to the gameplay. Some reviewers, such as PlayStation Universe, appreciated the evolution of the combat mechanics from simple to nuanced, indicating that the gameplay can be rewarding, particularly for those who enjoy exploration and combat. However, a significant number of critics pointed out various shortcomings in the gameplay. PC Gamer and Game Informer criticized the repetitive nature of the combat, with PC Gamer specifically mentioning the reliance on the same combos and a lack of enemy variety. Gameblog.fr echoed these sentiments, describing the gameplay mechanics as imprecise and frustrating, with latency issues affecting the overall experience. Many reviewers, including Gamer.no and The Loadout, noted that the combat feels clunky and lacks depth, leading to a predictable loop that fails to engage players effectively. This sentiment was further reinforced by multiple critics who described the gameplay as tedious and lacking in challenge, with some even labeling it as uninteresting. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Trek to Yomi has moments of engaging combat and exploration, it is marred by repetitive mechanics and a lack of variety. Many reviewers, such as MeuPlayStation and TierraGamer, highlighted the simplistic combat system that can become monotonous, often relying on a single combo for success. The criticisms surrounding the gameplay's repetitiveness, imprecise controls, and lack of depth overshadow the positive aspects, leading to a general perception that the game does not fully meet the expectations set by its narrative and aesthetic ambitions. As a result, while there are enjoyable elements, the gameplay fails to deliver a consistently engaging experience for many players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Trek to Yomi" impresses with its stunning black-and-white visuals, reminiscent of classic samurai films, earning praise for its cinematic style and atmospheric design. However, performance issues on platforms like the Nintendo Switch, including low resolution and technical glitches, detract from the experience. While critics celebrate its artistic ambition, the inconsistent visual quality across platforms may hinder gameplay clarity for some players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

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 "Trek to Yomi" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its striking black-and-white aesthetic that pays homage to classic samurai films, particularly the works of Akira Kurosawa. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Metro GameCentral highlighted the stunning visuals and impressive attention to detail, noting how the game effectively captures the cinematic style of old samurai movies. The use of meticulous lighting, dynamic camera angles, and evocative environments has been widely appreciated, with reviewers such as Digital Trends and PC Gamer emphasizing the game's ability to create a captivating atmosphere through its artistic choices. The monochromatic palette and cinematic framing have been described as not only visually appealing but also as enhancing the overall narrative experience, as noted by critics like NME and Game Revolution. However, several reviewers have pointed out notable drawbacks, particularly concerning the performance on specific platforms. Critics who played on the Nintendo Switch, such as God is a Geek and Pocket Tactics, expressed disappointment with the graphical fidelity, citing low resolution and a lack of color that detracted from the game's visual appeal. Additionally, technical issues, including camera problems and character visibility during gameplay, were mentioned by critics like Game Informer and Game Rant, suggesting that while the artistic vision is commendable, its execution can sometimes falter. These concerns indicate that the game's visual design may not be consistent across all platforms, leading to a varied experience for players. In conclusion, while the majority of critics agree that "Trek to Yomi" boasts impressive graphics and a unique visual style, the experience can be marred by technical issues, especially on less powerful platforms like the Nintendo Switch. The consensus among critics is that the game successfully evokes the essence of classic samurai cinema, with a strong artistic presentation that enhances its narrative. However, as noted by critics such as TouchArcade and IGN Italia, these visual strengths can occasionally be overshadowed by performance-related shortcomings that affect gameplay clarity. Overall, "Trek to Yomi" stands out for its artistic ambition, even if it doesn't always deliver a flawless visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

"Trek to Yomi" impresses with authentic Japanese voice acting and Edo period music that enhances immersion, praised for its cinematic quality reminiscent of Kurosawa films. However, criticism arises over lackluster combat sound effects and technical issues like sound bugs and dialogue cuts, leading to a mixed reception. While some reviewers commend its atmospheric sound design, others point out significant flaws that detract from the overall experience, highlighting the need for improvement in creating a cohesive auditory landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of "Trek to Yomi" have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the authentic Japanese voice acting and the incorporation of traditional Edo period instruments. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and MeuPlayStation, highlight the historical accuracy of the music, which effectively contributes to the game's immersive atmosphere. Critics like Game Revolution commend the soundtrack for its outstanding quality, noting how it emulates the scores of classic Kurosawa films, enhancing the overall experience. The atmospheric sound design is also frequently mentioned, with reviewers like Movies Games and Tech and XboxEra praising its ability to create a haunting ambiance that complements the visuals and narrative. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music that detract from the overall experience. Several reviewers, including GamesHub and GameOver.gr, express disappointment in the combat sound effects, describing them as underwhelming and lacking the necessary impact to convey the intensity of battles effectively. Additionally, BaziCenter points out technical issues, such as sound bugs that can mute the game at times, while The Enemy notes abrupt cuts in dialogue that disrupt immersion. Critics like KeenGamer and Twinfinite also mention that while the music is well-crafted, it often becomes unmemorable or is drowned out by combat sounds, detracting from its potential impact. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided reception of the sound design and music in "Trek to Yomi." While many laud the authentic voice acting and the use of traditional instruments to create an immersive atmosphere, others point out significant shortcomings in the sound effects and technical issues that hinder the experience. Critics such as INVEN and Game Informer find the sound design effective, while others like GamesHub and GameOver.gr highlight the lack of impactful audio during combat. This dichotomy suggests that while "Trek to Yomi" succeeds in certain areas of sound design, it also has room for improvement, particularly in creating a more cohesive and impactful auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics mostly praise the voice acting in Trek to Yomi for its authenticity and emotional depth, especially lauding the Japanese voice cast for enhancing the narrative. However, some argue the minimalistic approach leads to a lack of emotional complexity and can clash with the game's silent film inspiration. Despite these issues, the overall reception is positive, acknowledging the voice acting's contribution to the game's immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Trek to Yomi has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who highlight its authenticity and immersive qualities. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and PlayStation LifeStyle, commend the performances of the Japanese voice actors, noting that their contributions significantly enhance the game's narrative depth and emotional impact. Critics like Vgames and PC Gamer specifically praise the ability of the voice cast to convey complex emotions, effectively drawing players into the story. The use of Japanese dialogue has been recognized as a strong point, with several reviewers, including Meristation and GamingBolt, emphasizing how it aligns with the cultural context of the game, thereby enriching the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting in Trek to Yomi. BaziCenter points out that the minimalistic approach to voice acting results in a lack of depth, with characters often expressing only basic emotions, which can hinder the overall evaluation of their performances. Atomix also raises concerns about the contradiction between the Japanese voice acting and the game's silent film inspiration, suggesting that this choice might alienate some players. Additionally, The Enemy notes that camera changes can interrupt the voice acting, potentially detracting from the immersive experience that the game aims to create. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Trek to Yomi is generally well-executed and adds a layer of authenticity to the game, it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers appreciate the cultural alignment and emotional depth provided by the Japanese voice cast, as highlighted by critics like IGN Spain and The Loadout. However, the minimalistic nature of the performances and the potential for interruptions during gameplay, as noted by BaziCenter and The Enemy, suggest that there are areas for improvement. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment leans positively towards the voice acting, recognizing its role in enhancing the game's immersive atmosphere.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Trek to Yomi" shines on PS5 with smooth 60 FPS and minimal issues, but faces criticism for sound bugs and input lag. Xbox Series X has mixed reviews, while the Switch struggles with major performance problems. PC performance varies, with some praising high-end setups but others reporting severe glitches. Solid on some platforms, but overall technical shortcomings highlight the need for improvements across the board.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The technical performance of "Trek to Yomi" has garnered a mixed bag of opinions across different gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, several critics, including Atomix and Everyeye.it, praised the game for running smoothly at 60 FPS with minimal technical issues. Many reviewers noted the game's stable performance, quick loading times, and generous checkpoint system, which enhances the overall experience. For instance, PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the lack of significant technical issues, allowing players to focus on the narrative. Similarly, Hobby Consolas and PSX Brasil remarked on the solid performance and absence of serious bugs, contributing to a generally positive sentiment. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the technical performance on the PS5. BaziCenter and CD-Action pointed out issues with sound bugs and animation fluidity during combat, which can disrupt gameplay. IGN Italia and Jeuxvideo.com echoed these concerns, mentioning input lag and bugs that can leave players immobile, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, Gfinity noted sluggish controls and wonky animations, indicating that while the game performs well in many aspects, there are significant areas that require improvement. On Xbox Series X, the consensus is similarly divided. While some critics, like GamePro Germany and IGN Spain, reported a smooth experience with no major technical issues, others, such as Eurogamer Italy and GameMAG, highlighted performance problems, including unresponsive controls and frame rate drops. The Nintendo Switch version faced even more severe criticism, with reviewers like Nintendo Life and Pocket Tactics discussing significant visual struggles and performance issues that hinder the gameplay experience. On PC, opinions varied widely, with some critics praising the game's performance on high-end setups, like Noisy Pixel, while others, such as PC Gamer and SpazioGames, cited significant glitches and bugs that severely impacted gameplay. Overall, while "Trek to Yomi" demonstrates solid technical performance on certain platforms, it also reveals a range of issues that detract from the experience, suggesting a need for patches and improvements across all systems.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Trek to Yomi has potential for replayability with multiple endings and difficulty levels, but critics largely view its short length, linear design, and repetitive combat as major drawbacks. While some elements encourage revisiting, many agree these aren't enough to make the game compelling for multiple playthroughs, leading to a cautious consensus on its overall replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

23%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Trek to Yomi reveal a nuanced perspective among critics, with some acknowledging its potential for multiple playthroughs. Several reviewers highlight the presence of multiple endings, which can encourage players to explore different narrative paths. Critics like Xbox Achievements and MGG emphasize that the game offers various difficulty levels and collectibles, providing incentives for players to revisit the game. Additionally, the inclusion of a Kensei mode post-completion, as mentioned by EGM, adds a layer of challenge that could appeal to those seeking a more demanding experience. Overall, there is a recognition that while the game is short, there are elements that can enhance replayability for certain players. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's overall replay value. Many reviews point to the game's linear design, repetitive combat mechanics, and lack of enemy variety as major deterrents to multiple playthroughs. For instance, BaziCenter and PC Invasion both note that the lack of compelling reasons to replay the game, despite its multiple endings, diminishes the overall experience. Critics like Siliconera and Gfinity also mention that the absence of a flexible checkpoint system and the linear structure limit the potential for exploration and backtracking, making it feel like a one-time experience. This sentiment is echoed by numerous other reviewers who find the gameplay monotonous and lacking in depth. The overall consensus among critics leans towards a cautious view of Trek to Yomi's replay value. While some reviewers, such as The Independent and TrueAchievements, find merit in the game's multiple endings and the potential for exploration, the majority highlight the limitations posed by its short length, repetitive gameplay, and linearity. Critics like Gamer.no and New Game Network encapsulate the sentiment that although there are features that could encourage replay, they are overshadowed by the game's shortcomings. Ultimately, while Trek to Yomi presents some opportunities for replayability, many reviewers agree that these are not compelling enough to warrant extensive revisits.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Trek to Yomi" highlights a strong appreciation for its visual aesthetics and artistic presentation. Many critics, such as GameMAG and Vandal, praise the game as a visually stunning homage to classic samurai cinema, effectively capturing the essence of Kurosawa's films. Critics like Shacknews and PCMag also commend the game for its engaging narrative and immersive experience, noting that it offers a captivating adventure for fans of the genre. The game's strong storytelling and dedication to authenticity are frequently mentioned as standout elements, with reviewers like But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded emphasizing its historical accuracy and creative vision. Despite the positive reception of its visuals and narrative, "Trek to Yomi" faces significant criticism regarding its gameplay mechanics and depth. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and BaziCenter, describe the gameplay as lacking polish and depth, with issues such as clunky controls and a simplistic combat system being common points of contention. Critics like The Loadout and Gamer.no echo these sentiments, pointing out that the game often feels repetitive and frustrating, which detracts from the overall experience. The consensus among various reviews indicates that while the game has potential, it ultimately falls short in delivering a satisfying gameplay experience. The overall consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the game's artistic qualities and those who find its gameplay lacking. While some, like Gaming Nexus and CGMagazine, recommend "Trek to Yomi" for its engaging story and impressive visuals, others, such as Game Revolution and Destructoid, argue that the gameplay shortcomings overshadow its strengths. Ultimately, "Trek to Yomi" is seen as a game that may appeal to fans of samurai culture and cinematic experiences, but its execution leaves much to be desired, with many critics suggesting that it could have been a much more compelling title had it addressed its gameplay flaws.

TL;DR

"Trek to Yomi" impresses with stunning visuals and a captivating narrative, earning praise as a tribute to samurai cinema. However, its gameplay is marred by clunky controls and a simplistic combat system, leading to a frustrating experience. While it appeals to fans of samurai culture, critics agree that its execution falls short, suggesting it could have been a stronger title if gameplay flaws were addressed.

MONSTER

Reviews

207 reviews found

GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

May 5, 2022