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MONSTER

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy
Item: Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 31, 2023

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperFrozenbyte, Inc.

Overview

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy will take Amadeus the Wizard, Zoya the Thief, and Pontius the Knight on their most action-packed journey yet! Traverse breathtaking 2.5D landscapes in Trine‘s deepest and visually richest chapter to date, with an all new cast of characters – some friends, some foes, but all unforgettable. Whether by yourself or playing with up to three friends in online and local co-op, the upgraded puzzle difficulty system keeps things fresh, adapting the challenge to the number of players. Level up the heroes' abilities with the all-new skill quest system, growing their legend as they are once again united by… the Trine!

Elsewhere

9.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy charms critics with its humor and character development, offering a whimsical narrative that newcomers can enjoy. However, the story is often criticized as predictable and lacking depth, serving more as a gameplay framework than a compelling experience. While some praise its light-hearted nature, many feel the story fails to make a lasting impression, overshadowed by its shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy has garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its charm and humor. Reviewers like BaziCenter and Shacknews highlighted the endearing nature of the characters and the witty dialogue, which contribute to a whimsical atmosphere throughout the game. Many critics noted that while the story is predictable, it is still accessible to newcomers, with GameSpew emphasizing the decent character development. The narrative serves as a light-hearted backdrop for the gameplay, as seen in the opinions of Generación Xbox and Nintendo Life, who appreciated the whimsical delivery and engaging character dynamics. Overall, the writing and voice acting received commendations, with several critics, including IGN and TheSixthAxis, acknowledging improvements in character development compared to previous installments. On the flip side, numerous reviews pointed out significant shortcomings in the story. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Hey Poor Player described the narrative as unengaging and lacking depth, with many labeling it as predictable and simplistic. The consensus among several reviewers, such as GameCritics and Multiplayer.it, is that the plot feels like an afterthought, serving merely as a framework for the gameplay rather than a compelling narrative experience. Additionally, some critics, including Riot Pixels and New Game Network, criticized the underdeveloped villains and the overall lack of memorable moments in the story, which detracted from the potential impact of the narrative. Overall, the sentiment among critics leans towards a mixed reception of the story in Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy. While there are elements of charm, humor, and character development that some reviewers appreciated, the overarching narrative is often deemed shallow and predictable. The opinions of critics such as TheSixthAxis and God is a Geek suggest that while the story may not be the focal point of the game, it still provides a light-hearted and whimsical backdrop. Ultimately, the game appears to be enjoyable for its gameplay and character interactions, but the story itself does not leave a lasting impression, as echoed by the majority of reviews.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy shines with innovative puzzles and a standout character-switching mechanic that promotes creative problem-solving and engaging cooperative play. However, critics slam its weak, repetitive combat, which disrupts the flow and detracts from the overall experience. While the puzzle design is praised, the combat issues leave the gameplay feeling unbalanced, particularly in single-player mode.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy has garnered praise from numerous critics for its innovative approach to puzzles and platforming. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and KeenGamer, highlight the game's emphasis on creative problem-solving, with puzzles that encourage experimentation and offer multiple solutions. The character-switching mechanic is frequently noted as a standout feature, allowing players to utilize each hero's unique abilities to tackle challenges effectively. Critics like PlaySense and Metro GameCentral commend the increasing complexity of puzzles as players progress, which keeps the gameplay engaging and rewarding. Additionally, the cooperative mode is celebrated for enhancing the overall experience, making it more enjoyable, particularly when played with friends. However, there are several criticisms regarding the gameplay, particularly concerning the combat mechanics. Many reviewers, including IGN and GameGrin, describe the combat as weak and unengaging, often interrupting the flow of the game. Critics like GameMAG and Ragequit.gr mention that while the puzzles are engaging, the combat can feel repetitive and simplistic, leading to a less satisfying experience overall. Some reviewers also express concerns about the potential for puzzles to become tedious or overly complex, as noted by NintendoWorldReport, which can lead to frustration rather than enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trine 5 excels in its puzzle design and platforming mechanics, with many reviewers considering gameplay to be the game's strongest aspect. While the character abilities and cooperative elements are well-received, the combat remains a significant drawback that detracts from the overall experience. Critics like XboxAddict and Shacknews emphasize the importance of the physics-based puzzles and the enjoyable platforming, but they also caution that the combat's limitations could impact players' enjoyment, especially in single-player mode. Ultimately, Trine 5 is recognized for its creativity and depth in puzzle-solving, but it struggles to deliver a fully rounded gameplay experience due to its combat shortcomings.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy dazzles with its enchanting 2.5D graphics and vibrant colors, earning high praise for its fairy-tale aesthetic and immersive environments. Critics laud the stunning visuals that elevate gameplay, though some note dated character models and repetitive settings. Overall, the game's art direction shines, solidifying its reputation for captivating graphics that appeal to fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's enchanting 2.5D artistic style and vibrant color palette. Reviewers like BaziCenter and PlaySense praised the nostalgic and fairy-tale aesthetic that effectively transports players into a beautifully crafted fantasy world. Metro GameCentral and Xbox Tavern echoed this sentiment, noting the stunning environments and attention to detail that contribute to a visually immersive experience. The game is celebrated for its crisp visuals and rich backgrounds, with many critics, including Gamereactor UK and Nintendo Life, emphasizing the impressive quality of the graphics that enhance the overall gameplay experience. Despite the many accolades, some critics pointed out areas for improvement. GamingBolt noted that while the art direction is strong, the character models may appear dated compared to the rest of the visuals. IGN Italia echoed this concern regarding the cutscenes, describing them as wooden and lacking the same level of polish seen in the game's environments. Additionally, Riot Pixels mentioned that while the graphics are lush, some environments felt repetitive, suggesting a lack of diversity that could detract from the overall visual experience. These critiques, while significant, do not overshadow the general appreciation for the game's aesthetic. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its beautiful environments and engaging art style. Critics like TheSixthAxis and SECTOR.sk highlighted the game's ability to create a magical atmosphere through its detailed and colorful designs. While there are some criticisms regarding character models and repetitiveness in certain environments, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable. The game's visuals are seen as a standout feature, reinforcing the series' reputation for delivering captivating and enchanting graphics that resonate with both new players and long-time fans.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy boasts a nostalgic and whimsical soundtrack that greatly enhances the game's charm, earning praise from critics for its enchanting quality and strong voice acting. However, some reviewers noted issues with repetitiveness and minor audio glitches, suggesting that while the sound design is largely successful, there's room for improvement in future titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as BaziCenter and PlaySense praised the music for evoking a sense of nostalgia from previous Trine games, enhancing the overall experience. The whimsical and fairy-tale-like soundtrack was highlighted by multiple critics, including PlayStation Country and XboxEra, who noted its ability to complement the game's enchanting visuals and atmosphere. Additionally, the voice acting has been consistently recognized for its quality, with critics like Movies Games and Tech and Generación Xbox commending the dry humor and engaging performances that add depth to the characters. Despite the overall acclaim, there are some notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music. The Games Machine mentioned that while the soundtrack fits the enchanted mood, it can become repetitive over time. KeenGamer echoed this sentiment, noting that the music may feel monotonous during extended play sessions and pointed out minor volume fluctuations. Furthermore, Wccftech provided a contrasting opinion, describing the soundtrack as lacking impact and resembling "white noise," which indicates that not all critics shared the same enthusiasm for the audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is largely favorable, with the sound design and music of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy contributing significantly to the game's charm and immersive quality. The enchanting and whimsical soundtrack, along with quality voice acting, has been highlighted by many, including God is a Geek and Nintendo Life, as key elements that enhance the gameplay experience. However, some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and occasional audio issues suggest that while the audio is generally well-received, there are areas for improvement that could enhance future installments in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy receives mostly positive reviews for its voice acting, celebrated for bringing quirky characters to life and enhancing the game's charm. Critics praise the engaging dialogue and localization that appeals to Spanish-speaking audiences. However, some find the performances "dry" and lacking depth, suggesting they don't fully captivate. Overall, while there are a few criticisms, the voice acting is viewed as a strong asset to the game's appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy has garnered a largely positive response from critics across various platforms. Reviewers like GamingBolt and Metro GameCentral highlight the distinctiveness and endearing nature of the protagonists, emphasizing that the fun dialogue and solid vocal performances bring the zany characters to life. Critics from Shacknews and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, praising the quality of the voice acting and its contribution to the overall experience. Additionally, the localization efforts, particularly noted by Generación Xbox, enhance accessibility and enjoyment for Spanish-speaking audiences, further broadening the game's appeal. The well-written script and engaging banter, as pointed out by GameGrin, also contribute to a lively atmosphere that resonates well with players. However, not all reviews are entirely favorable. Movies Games and Tech describes the voice acting as "dry," suggesting that while it may appeal to a broad demographic, it lacks a certain depth or engagement. Similarly, TheXboxHub mentions that while the voice acting is competent, it fails to captivate the audience fully. This sentiment is echoed by a few other critics who find the performances to be somewhat lacking in engrossing quality, indicating that while the voice acting is functional, it may not elevate the game to its fullest potential. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Trine 5 is of high quality, with many praising the performances for their charm and ability to enhance the storytelling experience. Critics like God is a Geek and Ragequit.gr commend the enthusiastic delivery and consistency with the series' standards, suggesting that the voice acting effectively maintains the playful atmosphere of the game. While there are some critiques regarding the depth and engagement of the performances, the general sentiment leans towards appreciation, making it clear that the voice acting is a significant asset to the game's overall charm and enjoyment.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy impresses with solid technical performance across platforms, achieving a stable 60fps on PS5 and Xbox Series X with minimal issues. Critics praise its visuals and smooth gameplay, though minor glitches and audio hiccups have been noted. Overall, it’s highly regarded as a polished title, appealing to a wide audience despite a few minor gripes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy has garnered a largely positive reception across various gaming platforms. On the PlayStation 5, critics like PlaySense and SpazioGames highlighted the game’s smooth operation at a stable 60fps, contributing to an enjoyable gameplay experience. The Games Machine also praised the game’s visual appeal, noting that it runs impressively without major performance issues. For the Xbox Series X, both Generación Xbox and Movies Games and Tech reported a well-polished experience with no bugs or frame rate drops, indicating a strong technical performance that enhances the overall enjoyment of the game. On PC, GameMAG and KeenGamer echoed these sentiments, with both reviews indicating a stable experience free from significant technical issues. SECTOR.sk further emphasized the seamless performance on the Steam Deck, showcasing the game’s versatility across different hardware. Despite the overall positive feedback, some critics pointed out minor technical issues on certain platforms. For instance, Shacknews noted minor screen tearing and audio glitches during cutscenes on the PlayStation 5, which could detract from the immersive experience. The Games Machine mentioned occasional collision problems and control imprecisions that may require patching. On the Nintendo Switch, while Pocket Tactics acknowledged smooth framerates and vibrant visuals, they also mentioned some amusing glitches that could disrupt gameplay. However, Starbit countered this by emphasizing the excellent technical performance, noting minimal resolution loss on both TV and handheld modes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy delivers a commendable technical performance across all platforms, with the majority of reviews leaning towards a favorable outlook. The game’s ability to maintain stability and smooth gameplay, particularly on PS5 and Xbox Series X, is widely recognized, with only minor issues cited that do not significantly hinder the experience. As noted by multiple critics, the game’s technical execution is well-received, making it a strong contender in its genre. The positive feedback, especially regarding the performance on PC and the Switch, reinforces the game's reputation as a polished title, making it appealing to a broad audience of players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy shines in replay value thanks to its engaging cooperative gameplay and diverse character combinations, with critics praising the multiplayer experience and new quest skill system. The campaign is longer (10-15 hours) than previous titles, offering plenty to explore. However, concerns arise over potential repetitiveness in single-player mode and some simplistic puzzles, which may dampen enjoyment for solo players. Overall, it's a solid game, especially in multiplayer, but improvements are needed for solo play.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the game's cooperative gameplay and various character combinations as significant factors that enhance the replay experience. Critics like BaziCenter and Metro GameCentral emphasize the appeal of multiplayer modes, where different character skills and puzzle solutions can lead to unique gameplay experiences. Additionally, the introduction of a quest skill system, as noted by GameSpew, adds depth and variety to the gameplay, encouraging players to explore different strategies. The game also boasts a longer campaign than its predecessors, with critics such as GamingBolt and Vandal noting playtimes of around 10 to 15 hours, which provides ample opportunity for exploration and replay. However, there are some concerns regarding the game's replay value. Several critics pointed out that the gameplay may become stale after a few hours, particularly in single-player mode, as highlighted by IGN Italia and GameMAG. While the cooperative mode offers variety, some reviews suggest that playing solo can lead to a repetitive experience. Additionally, the straightforward nature of some puzzles, as mentioned by SECTOR.sk, may not provide the depth of exploration that some players desire, especially when compared to more intricate genres like metroidvania games. This sentiment is echoed by Riot Pixels, who noted that while the gameplay is engaging, it lacks lasting impact. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Trine 5 offers a solid replay value, particularly through its cooperative gameplay and the ability to explore different character abilities and puzzle solutions. Critics like PlaySense and XboxAddict highlight the multiple difficulty settings and hidden collectibles that encourage players to revisit the game. Despite some concerns about potential repetitiveness in single-player mode, the cooperative aspects and the variety of puzzles and challenges provide enough incentive for players to engage with the game multiple times. Thus, while there are areas for improvement, particularly in solo gameplay dynamics, the game is generally well-received for its replayability, especially in multiplayer settings.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, with many praising its engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and strong cooperative elements. Reviewers like Shacknews highlight the game's dynamic puzzles and inventive hero skills, while IGN Italia commends the improvements in puzzle design and the evocative environments. The cooperative mode is frequently noted as a standout feature, with critics such as The XboxHub and PlaySense emphasizing the enjoyable experience it provides for both new and returning players. The game’s art style and charming writing have also been well-received, as noted by God is a Geek and Vandal, further enhancing the overall experience. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics point out notable shortcomings in Trine 5. A common critique is the lack of innovation, with many reviewers, including GameSpew and Metro GameCentral, describing the game as feeling like a retread of familiar ground. The combat system has also received criticism, with multiple reviews, such as from New Game Network and Nintendo Life, highlighting its clunky and uninspired nature. Additionally, some reviewers like GamingBolt and The Games Machine mention that the story is simple and can feel underwhelming, contributing to a sense of stagnation in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a solid and enjoyable addition to the franchise, it does not significantly advance the series or address long-standing issues. Many reviewers, such as PlayStation Country and GameGrin, appreciate the game for its charm and engaging puzzles but express a desire for more innovation in future installments. The game is recommended for fans of the series and puzzle-platformer enthusiasts, but it is clear that there is a collective hope for a more daring evolution in the next entry.

TL;DR

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy receives praise for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and cooperative features, appealing to both new and returning players. However, critics lament its lack of innovation, clunky combat, and an underwhelming story, labeling it a safe entry that doesn’t push the series forward. While enjoyable, there's a strong desire for more originality in future titles. Recommended for fans, but many hope for a bolder evolution next time.

MONSTER

Reviews

65 reviews found

100

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Aug 30, 2023

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

The review highly praises Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy, calling it the best Trine game yet and one of the most enjoyable games of the year. It mentions the freedom given to players, stunning presentation, and essential gameplay.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Sep 11, 2023

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a co-op puzzling masterclass with creative platforming puzzles and gorgeous environments. The combat is underwhelming, but overall it is a wonderful game.

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Shacknews

PlayStation 5

Sep 1, 2023

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

The review overall praises Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy, mentioning its dynamic puzzles, inventive hero skills, visual splendor, and customizable difficulty settings. It also mentions that the combat felt somewhat unbalanced.

KeenGamer

Sep 6, 2023

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a satisfying continuation of the franchise, offering engaging gameplay and beautiful visuals, despite minor issues.

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GameGrin

Sep 11, 2023

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a great puzzle-platformer with personality, atmosphere, and enjoyable gameplay. It is recommended for both OG fans of the series and newcomers.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Oct 23, 2023

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a successful continuation of the series, offering a fun and challenging experience with well-designed puzzles, despite some shortcomings in combat.

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Vandal

Aug 29, 2023

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

Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is praised for its clever puzzles, beautiful art style, and cooperative gameplay, but criticized for its lackluster combat and repetitive enemy encounters. It is a highly enjoyable game, especially when played with friends either locally or online.

Ragequit.gr

Sep 25, 2023

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

Trine 5 delivers enjoyable gameplay for fans and newcomers alike, though it could benefit from improvements in combat. It offers a rich experience with beautiful visuals and engaging puzzles.

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SpazioGames

PlayStation 5

Sep 11, 2023

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

Trine 5 is a solid entry in the series, staying true to its roots while introducing new abilities and challenges. It is a highly enjoyable experience for both fans and newcomers.

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The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Aug 29, 2023

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

Trine 5 is a 'more of the same' installment that will not disappoint fans of the series. It offers a pleasant mix of platforming and physics-based puzzles. The game is more enjoyable in co-op and could benefit from a true evolution.

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