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Twelve Minutes

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Twelve Minutes
Item: Twelve Minutes
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Indie, Puzzle and Logic, Thriller, Top-Down Perspective, Point & Click, Mystery, Single Player

AvailableAug 19, 2021

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperLuis Antonio

Overview

Twelve Minutes is a real-time top-down interactive thriller with an accessible click and drag interface. Featuring James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe. The game blends the dream-like tension of The Shining with the claustrophobia of Rear Window and the fragmented structure of Memento.

Elsewhere

7.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes delivers a captivating time-loop murder mystery that hooks players with strong voice performances and emotional depth. However, critics warn of significant flaws: shallow character development, predictable plot twists, and pacing issues detract from its ambitious narrative. While its intriguing premise invites exploration, the execution leaves many players divided. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking experience with both highs and lows, making it a mixed bag in the gaming landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story 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 story and narrative.

The story of Twelve Minutes has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its intriguing premise centered around a time loop and a murder mystery. Reviewers like GameSpot and IGN highlight the narrative's richness and multilayered aspects, emphasizing the emotional depth brought forth by the performances of voice actors such as James McAvoy and Daisy Ridley. Critics from GamingBolt and Press Start Australia commend the game for its psychological complexity, exploring themes of trust and self-affirmation, while others like WellPlayed appreciate how the narrative's focus sharpens towards the end, providing a rollercoaster of emotions. The unique setup of reliving the same twelve minutes to unearth the truth has been noted as an engaging mechanic that captivates players, with Eurogamer Italy describing it as a deep exploration of choices impacting the outcome. However, despite its strengths, many critics have pointed out significant flaws in the narrative. Reviews from Slant Magazine, Gamersky, and Games.cz criticize the story for lacking depth and failing to create fully realized characters, leading to a disconnection that hampers emotional engagement. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Everyeye.it mention that the plot twists often feel artificial and disrupt immersion, resulting in a sense of weariness. Additionally, some reviewers, including PlayStation LifeStyle and Atomix, express disappointment with the narrative's predictability and pacing issues, suggesting that the story starts strong but loses momentum as it progresses. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Twelve Minutes presents a compelling and ambitious narrative concept, it struggles with execution. The game is recognized for its intriguing premise and emotional potential, yet many reviewers highlight its shortcomings in character development and narrative depth. Critics such as Digital Trends and Game Informer appreciate the gripping nature of the story, but the mixed reactions to its conclusion and plot twists suggest that the game may not resonate with all players. Ultimately, Twelve Minutes is seen as a thought-provoking experience that, despite its flaws, offers a unique narrative adventure worth exploring.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes delivers a unique time-loop concept and intriguing puzzle design, lauded for its innovative mechanics and strategic challenges. However, critics are divided, citing repetitiveness, awkward controls, and a lack of clear guidance as major flaws. Many players find the trial-and-error gameplay frustrating and tedious, leading to a consensus that while the game has potential, its execution often leaves them feeling constrained and dissatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Twelve Minutes has garnered a mix of praise for its innovative mechanics and classic point-and-click style. Critics such as GameSpot and Screen Rant highlight the game's unique twelve-minute time loop, which allows players to engage in a variety of problem-solving scenarios. The game’s design encourages creative thinking, with GameSkinny noting the intricate puzzle design that challenges players to think strategically. Additionally, WellPlayed mentions the clever puzzles and the potential for varied experiences despite the repetitive nature of the gameplay, suggesting that the game can offer rewarding moments when players successfully navigate its challenges. However, many reviewers have expressed significant frustrations with the gameplay, citing issues such as repetitiveness and a lack of clear guidance. Nintendo Life criticizes the game for being unengaging and requiring arbitrary guessing, while MGG points out that the restrictive nature of the gameplay can lead to tedium. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Everyeye.it echo these sentiments, describing the trial-and-error gameplay as frustrating and noting that players can easily get stuck due to the lack of signposting and the confined space of the apartment. The awkward controls and unintuitive puzzles mentioned by Gamer.nl and New Game Network further contribute to a sense of frustration that permeates many reviews. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Twelve Minutes offers a novel concept and engaging narrative elements, its execution suffers from repetitiveness, awkward mechanics, and a lack of player freedom. Many reviewers, including Malditos Nerds and SpazioGames, acknowledge that the game’s design choices, such as its reliance on trial and error and limited guidance, can lead to a frustrating experience. Despite its potential for creative gameplay and engaging storytelling, the gameplay mechanics have left a significant portion of the player base feeling constrained and dissatisfied.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes boasts a unique top-down perspective and stylish visuals that immerse players in its narrative, earning praise for its atmospheric lighting and intricate apartment design. However, it suffers from clunky animations, basic character models, and a minimalist style that some find detracts from immersion and emotional connection. Critics agree: the game is visually intriguing but lacks the polish and detail needed to fully captivate players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Twelve Minutes have garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various reviewers. On the positive side, many critics appreciate the unique top-down perspective that adds a voyeuristic element to the narrative. For instance, KeenGamer highlights the elegant and stylish visual design that immerses players in the mystery-solving experience. Additionally, GameSpot notes that the use of lighting effectively conveys different moods and perspectives, creating a stark yet magical environment as the story unfolds. Critics like Malditos Nerds and Generación Xbox commend the attention to detail in the apartment setting, which enhances the immersive experience and contributes to the overall atmosphere of the game. Conversely, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's graphics. Games.cz criticizes the minimalistic visual presentation for lacking creativity, describing animations as clunky and character models as basic, reminiscent of outdated freeware games. Similarly, Riot Pixels and PlaySense describe the graphics as mediocre, with Noisy Pixel mentioning that the simplistic art style and stiff animations detract from immersion. The limitations of the character designs, particularly the faceless representations, have also been noted by critics such as Metro GameCentral and Vgames, who argue that this choice can hinder emotional connections with the characters. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Twelve Minutes employs a distinctive and engaging visual style, it falls short in execution. The minimalist approach, while effective in creating tension and atmosphere, often results in a lack of detail and polish that some players may find unsatisfactory. Reviewers like IGN Japan and WellPlayed acknowledge the game's artistic vision but also highlight the need for more refined animations and character interactions. Ultimately, Twelve Minutes presents a visually intriguing experience that is both praised for its unique aesthetic and critiqued for its technical limitations, leaving players with a mixed impression of its graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes boasts stellar voice acting from a star-studded cast, praised for adding depth to characters. Critics lauded the sound design for its realism and atmosphere but noted issues like clunky dialogue and a forgettable soundtrack. While it elevates the narrative, gaps in execution leave room for improvement, particularly in musical memorability and dialogue flow.

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 Twelve Minutes have garnered generally positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding the voice acting. Reviewers such as IGN and Screen Rant highlight the star-studded cast, featuring notable actors like James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe, whose performances add depth and believability to the characters. Critics like GamingBolt and Gameblog.fr commend the sound design for its realism and attention to detail, effectively enhancing the game’s atmosphere and tension. The atmospheric music, while described as minimalist, is also praised by some, such as GamingTrend and PLAY! Zine, who note that it creates a subtle tension that complements the narrative experience. However, the criticisms surrounding the sound design and music are notable. Several reviewers, including Guardian and Atomix, point out that while the voice acting is strong, the dialogue can feel clunky and does not fully utilize the talent of the cast. Critics like Vgames and BaziCenter mention that the soundtrack is lacking in memorable pieces, with only a few standout moments that fail to linger after gameplay. Additionally, some reviewers, such as MGG and Noisy Pixel, highlight issues with overlapping dialogue that detracts from the overall experience, indicating that the sound design, though effective, has its shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Twelve Minutes excels in voice acting, with the performances of its star cast being a significant highlight. However, the sound design and music do not reach the same heights, with many reviewers noting a lack of memorable musical elements and some clunky dialogue. While the sound design effectively supports the narrative and enhances the atmosphere, as noted by critics like IGN Japan and TheSixthAxis, the overall execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in terms of the soundtrack’s impact and the dialogue’s fluidity.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes boasts a star-studded voice cast, with critics praising James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and especially Willem Dafoe for adding emotional depth. While many reviews highlight strong performances that enhance the narrative, some critics argue that script issues detract from the overall execution, leaving certain portrayals lackluster. Overall, the consensus is mostly positive, though it reveals a gap between the cast's talent and the writing's effectiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Twelve Minutes has generally received positive feedback from critics, with many praising the performances of its star-studded cast, which includes James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe. Reviewers from outlets like GameSpot and Gamer.nl highlighted the strong performances that add emotional depth and authenticity to the characters, enhancing the overall narrative experience. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and GameSkinny noted that the cast delivers great performances, especially Willem Dafoe, whose portrayal of the cop is often singled out as a standout. Additionally, Xbox Tavern emphasized the immersive experience created by the flawless voice acting, suggesting that the dialogue contributes significantly to the game's emotional engagement. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Some critics expressed disappointment with the overall execution of the voice acting, citing issues with the script and delivery. For instance, Games.cz described the performances as disappointing, lacking the expected emotional depth, while EGM noted that even the involvement of big Hollywood names resulted in flat and distracting performances, with only Dafoe's contribution being commendable. Critics like Everyeye.it and Riot Pixels echoed similar sentiments, indicating that the writing did not allow the actors' talents to shine, leaving some performances feeling detached and unhuman. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the voice acting in Twelve Minutes, with the majority recognizing the quality of the performances despite some criticisms regarding the script and delivery. While outlets like PC Invasion and Eurogamer Italy praised the voice acting as superb and excellent respectively, others pointed out missed opportunities for deeper character engagement, particularly with McAvoy and Ridley. This mixed reception highlights a divide where, despite the undeniable talent of the cast, the execution and writing may not have fully utilized their capabilities, leading to a complex but predominantly positive evaluation of the voice acting in the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes showcases a mixed technical performance across platforms. Xbox One users face occasional crashes and AI hiccups, while Xbox Series X players commend the smooth experience but note frustrating character interactions. PC gamers enjoy mostly bug-free gameplay, though some bugs persist, such as character clipping. The Nintendo Switch version is solid but lacks touchscreen support and visual fidelity. Critics agree that while there’s potential, significant bugs and control issues hinder an overall polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The technical performance of Twelve Minutes varies across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Xbox One, Meristation reported that the game performs well overall, with no significant technical issues, while LevelUp acknowledged only minor animation errors and character clipping that did not significantly impact gameplay. For the Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox found the experience to be smooth, and IGN Italia reported no bugs encountered during gameplay, highlighting a technically sound experience. On PC, several reviews noted good performance, with GamingBolt stating that no major technical issues were reported, and PLAY! Zine emphasized a mostly bug-free experience even on older hardware. The Nintendo Switch version was described as a solid port by Nintendo Life, indicating a satisfactory performance. However, there are notable negatives across platforms that detract from the overall experience. On Xbox One, Metro GameCentral highlighted occasional crashes and AI issues, which can disrupt gameplay, while Digitally Downloaded found the console controls irritating without delving into technical stability. For the Xbox Series X, issues such as dark areas affecting item visibility were reported by GameGrin, and IGN Japan pointed out frustrating character movement and interaction issues. Critics on PC also noted various bugs, with Checkpoint Gaming mentioning characters walking through each other and MGG highlighting disappearing objects and script issues. The Nintendo Switch version faced criticism for visual cutbacks and the absence of touchscreen support, as noted by TouchArcade. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Twelve Minutes has some commendable technical aspects, it is marred by a range of issues that vary by platform. The Xbox One appears to have a mix of minor issues and some significant disruptions, while the Xbox Series X has a more varied reception, with some praising its performance and others pointing out frustrating technical shortcomings. The PC version generally receives a more favorable assessment, though it is not without its bugs. The Nintendo Switch version is seen as a solid port but lacks certain features that could enhance gameplay. Critics like IGN Italia and Meristation show that there is potential in the game’s technical execution, but the presence of bugs and control issues across platforms suggests that further refinement is necessary for an optimal experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes captivates with its unique time loop mechanic and multiple endings, drawing players back for more. Critics praise its narrative depth but lament the game's repetitive nature and limited interactivity, leading to a consensus that replay value is low. While some find worth in revisiting for discoveries, many agree that the experience becomes tedious after the initial playthrough, limiting long-term enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Twelve Minutes present a nuanced view, highlighting several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many critics commend the game for its intriguing time loop mechanic, which encourages players to experiment with different choices and uncover multiple endings. For instance, PC Invasion notes that while replay value is low, the game offers a memorable experience at an affordable price. Similarly, Malditos Nerds emphasizes the allure of exploring various outcomes, which keeps players engaged even after the initial playthrough. Critics like Gameblog.fr and GamingBolt further reinforce this sentiment, pointing out that the intricate narrative structure and numerous secrets provide a compelling reason to revisit the game, making each run feel fresh and engaging. However, the consensus shifts when examining the negative aspects of replayability. A significant number of critics express frustration with the game's repetitive nature, which can lead to tedium over time. For example, Nintendo Life describes the game as "extremely tedious," while TheGamer and Gamer.nl echo similar sentiments about the gameplay becoming monotonous. Critics like Everyeye.it and TheSixthAxis highlight the limited interactivity and rigid narrative structure, which can diminish the desire to replay the game extensively. This sentiment is further supported by Pure Xbox, who states that the replayability factor is low after discovering everything, indicating that the initial intrigue may not sustain long-term engagement. Overall, the critics reach a consensus that while Twelve Minutes offers intriguing mechanics and multiple endings that entice players to explore its narrative, the repetitive gameplay and lack of significant changes in outcomes hinder its replay value. Critics like IGN Japan and Jeuxvideo.com recognize the potential for boredom due to the repetitive loops, which can affect overall enjoyment. Despite some reviewers, such as Press Start Australia and WellPlayed, acknowledging that the game can be worth replaying for its narrative depth and discoveries, the prevailing sentiment suggests that many players may find the experience less rewarding upon subsequent playthroughs. Thus, while Twelve Minutes has its merits, the overwhelming feedback indicates that its replay value is limited by its design choices.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Twelve Minutes" showcases a mix of appreciation for its innovative storytelling and voice acting. Critics like GameSpot and GamingTrend laud the game for its rich narrative and strong performances, highlighting its engaging gameplay and the unique time-loop concept. Reviewers such as Vandal and PSX Extreme commend the game for its atmospheric qualities and gripping interactive experience, suggesting that it successfully captures a sense of intrigue and emotional depth. The game’s ability to provoke thought and discussion, as noted by Gameblog.fr, adds to its appeal, making it a noteworthy title for fans of narrative-driven games. However, the criticisms directed at "Twelve Minutes" are significant and often center around its execution. Many reviewers, including Slant Magazine and Comicbook.com, express disappointment with the game’s repetitive gameplay and lack of emotional engagement, describing it as tedious and at times frustrating. Critics like Windows Central and MGG point out that while the premise is compelling, the dense puzzles and limited gameplay mechanics detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the game has been described as having technical flaws and convoluted narrative elements, leading to a mixed reception regarding its storytelling coherence and gameplay fluidity. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Twelve Minutes" presents a fascinating concept that ultimately struggles with its execution. While some reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and Xbox Tavern, found merit in the experience and rated it favorably, the majority lean towards a more critical perspective, emphasizing the game’s shortcomings in gameplay and narrative depth. The mixed reviews suggest that while "Twelve Minutes" has the potential to resonate with a niche audience, it may not meet the expectations of all players, particularly those seeking a polished and engaging interactive experience.

TL;DR

"Twelve Minutes" garners praise for its innovative storytelling and strong voice acting, but suffers from repetitive gameplay and execution flaws. Critics highlight its intriguing narrative and emotional depth, yet many find it tedious and frustrating with technical issues. The game appeals to a niche audience, but falls short for those seeking a polished interactive experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2021