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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

PlatformXbox One, Xbox Series X, PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

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" captivates with its unique time loop and emotional depth, drawing praise for its engaging narrative and stellar voice acting. However, critics argue the story suffers from clichéd twists, disjointed execution, and a lack of emotional connection, leading to a mixed reception. While some find it chilling and intriguing, many believe it falls short due to convoluted writing and underdeveloped characters, highlighting a divide in player experience.

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 range of positive responses from critics, particularly regarding its unique time loop concept and the emotional depth it attempts to explore. Reviewers like Gamer.nl and GamingBolt highlight the engaging nature of the narrative, emphasizing how the time loop mechanic allows players to uncover new details with each iteration, creating a compelling mystery. Critics such as Press Start Australia and SpazioGames commend the story for its tragic and mind-bending elements, filled with dark secrets and complex relationships. The performances of the voice actors, including notable Hollywood talent, are also praised for adding depth to the characters and enhancing the overall experience, as mentioned by Press Start Australia. However, the narrative has faced significant criticism for its execution and perceived shortcomings. Many reviewers, including Gamersky and Nintendo Life, describe the story as clichéd and lacking depth, with predictable twists that fail to engage players fully. Critics like Riot Pixels and Everyeye.it point out that the narrative feels disjointed, with artificial plot twists disrupting immersion and a lack of emotional connection to the characters. Furthermore, some reviewers, such as IGN Japan and Atomix, argue that the story's thematic shifts feel forced and lead to a conclusion that is unsatisfying or cliché, detracting from the overall impact of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a mixed sentiment towards the story of "Twelve Minutes." While some reviewers, like TheGamer and Jeuxvideo.com, find the narrative engaging and chilling, others express disappointment in its execution and depth. The game has been recognized for its ambitious premise and intriguing elements, yet many critics agree that it ultimately falls short of its potential due to convoluted writing and underdeveloped character arcs. This dichotomy suggests that while "Twelve Minutes" offers a unique storytelling experience, it may not resonate with all players due to its narrative flaws and execution challenges.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes dazzles with nostalgic point-and-click gameplay and a clever time loop mechanic that encourages creative problem-solving, but many critics slam it for repetitiveness and frustrating trial-and-error mechanics. While some appreciate its intricate puzzles and engaging exploration, others complain of tedious gameplay, awkward controls, and a sense of being stuck in a frustrating cycle. Overall, it’s a mixed bag: brilliant concept meets execution pitfalls, leaving players divided.

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 praise for its classic point-and-click mechanics, which many critics appreciate for their nostalgic appeal. Reviewers like Press Start Australia and GameSpot highlight the game's ability to honor traditional adventure gaming while incorporating a unique time loop mechanic that encourages players to use knowledge gained from previous loops to solve puzzles. Critics such as Screen Rant and Vgames also commend the intricate puzzle design and the variety of options available to influence the outcome of the narrative. The game’s focus on exploration and interaction within a confined environment is seen as an engaging aspect, with some reviewers noting that it fosters creative thinking and strategic problem-solving. However, a significant number of critics express frustration with the gameplay, citing issues such as repetitiveness and a lack of variety. Everyeye.it and Nintendo Life point out that the gameplay can feel unengaging and tedious, often requiring players to engage in arbitrary guessing or repetitive actions to progress. Critics like Riot Pixels and GameGrin emphasize the limitations imposed by the time loop, which can lead to a frustrating experience as players feel stuck in cycles with minimal progress. Additionally, concerns about the fiddly inventory management and awkward controls, especially on consoles, are raised by PlaySense and Malditos Nerds, further detracting from the overall enjoyment of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic point-and-click elements and the innovative time loop mechanic, and those who find the gameplay repetitive and frustrating. While some reviewers, such as Game Informer and WellPlayed, acknowledge the potential for creative exploration, many others, including GameGrin and Gamersky, highlight the drawbacks of trial-and-error mechanics that can hinder the player’s experience. The sentiment suggests that while Twelve Minutes offers a compelling premise and clever puzzles, its execution may leave some players feeling trapped in a cycle of frustration rather than engagement.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes showcases a unique artistic vision with its immersive top-down perspective and minimalist design, earning praise for atmosphere and detail in its confined setting. However, critics are divided, citing clunky animations and basic character models that evoke outdated games, hindering emotional connection. While the design enhances storytelling for some, others find it lacking in polish and creativity. Overall, the game presents a visually intriguing experience but struggles with execution, leaving a mixed reception among 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 variety of opinions, with several critics praising its unique artistic choices. Reviewers like Jeuxvideo.com and KeenGamer highlight the game's effective use of a top-down perspective, which contributes to an immersive atmosphere and enhances the narrative experience. The minimalist design, as noted by GameSpot and Checkpoint Gaming, cleverly masks some of the limitations in character models while allowing for detailed environments that feel tangible and believable. Critics like Malditos Nerds appreciate the attention to detail in the small apartment setting, which adds to the immersive experience, while others, like IGN Italia, commend the game for its effective use of lighting to create mood and tension within the confined space. Despite these positive aspects, many critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Games.cz and Riot Pixels criticize the visual presentation for being minimalistic and lacking creativity, with some reviewers noting clunky animations and basic character models that evoke outdated freeware games. Critics such as Press Start Australia and Atomix also mention the disconnect between the visual style and the narrative, highlighting issues like dated animations and rigid character movements that detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, the absence of facial features in character models, as noted by Metro GameCentral and Everyeye.it, can hinder emotional engagement and make it difficult for players to connect with the characters. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a general appreciation for the game's artistic direction tempered by concerns over execution. While some reviewers, like GameGrin and Vandal, recognize the minimalist design as a strength that enhances the storytelling, others, such as LevelUp and PlaySense, find the graphics to be mediocre and lacking polish. The top-down perspective has been both praised for its uniqueness and criticized for its limitations, leading to a complex reception that reflects a balance between innovative design choices and technical shortcomings. Ultimately, Twelve Minutes presents a visually intriguing experience that resonates with some players while leaving others wanting more in terms of graphical fidelity and character representation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes impresses with stellar voice acting from James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe, hailed as "fantastic" and enhancing immersion. Critics praise its atmospheric sound design, but many find the soundtrack forgettable and dialogue clunky, limiting character depth. The game excels in voice performances and tension-building sound, yet misses the mark on memorable music and rich interactions. In short, it shines in voice talent but falters in musical impact and dialogue quality.

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 a generally positive reception from critics, particularly highlighting the impressive voice acting performances from its star-studded cast, which includes James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe. Critics such as Game Rant and Digital Trends praised the voice acting as "fantastic" and "excellent," contributing significantly to the immersive experience of the game. Additionally, the sound design has been noted for its atmospheric qualities, with IGN Japan and Vandal emphasizing the effective use of environmental sounds and realistic sound effects that enhance the game's tension and overall immersion. The music, while described as minimal by some, has also been recognized for its ability to complement the narrative and build suspense, with New Game Network and KeenGamer noting standout tracks that enhance the gameplay experience. However, several critics expressed disappointment regarding certain aspects of the sound design and music. For instance, Atomix and BaziCenter pointed out that while the voice acting is strong, the overall soundtrack lacks memorability and does not play a significant role throughout the game. Critics like Guardian and Telegraph noted that the dialogue can feel clunky and fails to fully utilize the talent of the voice cast, which detracts from the overall impact of the performances. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from VideoGamer and Comicbook.com, mentioned a need for more dialogue to enrich character development, suggesting that the rapid pace of the game limits the depth of interactions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Twelve Minutes features exceptional voice acting that elevates the narrative and character depth, with many praising the performances of its Hollywood cast. However, the sound design and music appear to be a mixed bag, with some critics appreciating the atmospheric qualities while others find them lacking in depth and memorability. As noted by TrueGaming and Malditos Nerds, the sound design effectively supports the story and enhances emotional weight, but the music's minimal presence and the dialogue's occasional clumsiness indicate areas where the game could have improved. In summary, while Twelve Minutes excels in voice acting and atmospheric sound design, it falls short in delivering a more impactful musical experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Twelve Minutes receives praise for emotional depth and immersion from critics, particularly highlighting Willem Dafoe's standout performance. However, some reviewers express disappointment in the flatness of James McAvoy and Daisy Ridley's contributions, suggesting the writing hindered their impact. Overall, while the talented cast enhances the game, mixed opinions on execution reveal a disconnect between expectations and delivery.

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the performances of its star-studded cast, which includes James McAvoy, Daisy Ridley, and Willem Dafoe. Reviewers from outlets such as GamingBolt and Push Square highlighted the emotional depth and authenticity that the actors brought to their roles, effectively enhancing the narrative experience. Critics like Xbox Tavern and Hey Poor Player commended the immersive quality of the voice performances, noting that the dialogue felt real and engaging, which contributed significantly to the overall atmosphere of the game. Furthermore, Willem Dafoe's portrayal received particular acclaim, with multiple critics, including Digital Trends and Everyeye.it, noting his standout performance that effectively showcased a wide range of emotions. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting in Twelve Minutes. Some reviewers, such as those from Games.cz and WellPlayed, expressed disappointment, suggesting that the performances of even the well-known actors felt flat and lacked the emotional resonance expected from such a talented cast. Critics from EGM and PlaySense echoed this sentiment, indicating that while Dafoe's performance stood out, the contributions of McAvoy and Ridley did not elevate the experience as much as anticipated. Additionally, several reviewers pointed out that the writing and dialogue flow may have hindered the actors' abilities to fully shine, leading to a disconnect between the performances and the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Twelve Minutes features an impressive voice cast that generally delivers strong performances, there are mixed opinions regarding the effectiveness of these performances in relation to the game's writing and emotional depth. Many reviewers, including those from Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com, noted that the voice acting adds significant value to the game, enhancing character development and immersion. However, the criticisms regarding certain performances feeling flat or underutilized highlight a divide in the reception, suggesting that while the cast is talented, the execution may not have met the high expectations set by their reputations.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes showcases inconsistent technical performance across platforms. Xbox One faces crashes and control issues; Xbox Series X offers smooth gameplay but frustrating interface quirks; PC has bugs like character glitches; and the Nintendo Switch, while solid, features visual cutbacks. Critics agree that the game's compelling narrative is undermined by these technical flaws, highlighting the need for further refinement.

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 platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Xbox One, Meristation highlights that the game performs well overall, with no significant technical issues reported, while LevelUp acknowledges minor animation errors and character clipping that are infrequent and do not detract from the experience. On the Xbox Series X, several critics reported a generally smooth experience, with IGN Italia stating that the game is technically sound and free of bugs. Similarly, Generación Xbox noted a lack of specific technical issues, suggesting a solid performance. On the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Life praised the port as solid with no issues, although TouchArcade mentioned some visual cutbacks. However, there are notable negatives across all platforms. On Xbox One, Metro GameCentral reported occasional crashes and AI issues that disrupt gameplay, while Digitally Downloaded found the console controls irritating, indicating a lack of refinement in the user interface. For the Xbox Series X, Hey Poor Player pointed out awkwardness with the interface due to virtual mouse control, and IGN Japan mentioned frustrating character movement and interactions. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com echoed concerns about technical inconsistencies, particularly in dialogue sequences. On PC, while many critics noted the performance was generally good, there were still reports of bugs and glitches, such as characters walking through each other (Checkpoint Gaming) and disappearing objects (MGG), indicating that technical issues are present even in this version. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Twelve Minutes offers a compelling narrative experience, its technical performance is inconsistent across platforms. The Xbox One version struggles with control issues and occasional crashes, while the Xbox Series X sees a mix of smooth performance and frustrating interface problems. The PC version, while generally better received, still faces its share of bugs and glitches that can disrupt gameplay. Critics like New Game Network and Noisy Pixel underscore the impact of these technical shortcomings on the overall experience, suggesting that while the game has potential, it requires further refinement to fully realize its capabilities. The Nintendo Switch version, although praised for its solid performance, is noted for visual compromises, which may affect the experience for some players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Twelve Minutes divides critics on replay value; some praise its multiple endings and engaging narrative, suggesting up to 20 hours for completionists. However, many express frustration with its repetitive gameplay and rigid structure, leading to a lack of fresh experiences on repeat playthroughs. Overall, while the game has intriguing elements, its tedious mechanics may deter players from returning.

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 reveal a nuanced landscape, with several critics acknowledging the game's potential for replayability due to its multiple endings and the intricate narrative structure. Critics like TrueGaming and Gameblog.fr highlight the allure of uncovering different outcomes and the satisfaction derived from exploring the game's time loop mechanics. The presence of various paths and secrets is noted by GamingBolt, who emphasizes that the game can provide up to 20 hours of content for completionists, while Press Start Australia mentions that the runtime can vary significantly based on the player's puzzle-solving pace. This suggests a level of engagement that can encourage players to return for more, especially for those who enjoy narrative-driven experiences. Conversely, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value being diminished by its repetitive gameplay and rigid structure. Reviewers such as Nintendo Life and Windows Central describe the trial-and-error nature of the game as tedious, indicating that the need to restart frequently can lead to frustration. Critics like Everyeye.it and MGG point out that the limited interactivity and the necessity to follow specific paths can result in a lack of fresh experiences during subsequent playthroughs. Additionally, Gamer.nl and Digital Trends echo these sentiments, suggesting that the urgency and tension fade over time, making the game feel less engaging after the initial experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed sentiment regarding the replay value of Twelve Minutes. While some reviewers appreciate the game's potential for multiple endings and the engaging narrative, many others highlight the repetitive nature of the gameplay as a significant drawback. Critics like PlayStation Universe and Metro GameCentral encapsulate this divide, acknowledging the intriguing story and multiple resolutions while also noting that the frustration stemming from repetitive loops may deter players from replaying. Ultimately, while the game does offer some replay value through its narrative complexity and varied outcomes, the overwhelming sentiment suggests that the experience may not sustain interest for all players over multiple playthroughs.

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.

In analyzing the overall sentiment towards Twelve Minutes, a notable number of critics have highlighted its intriguing narrative and unique gameplay mechanics as significant strengths. Reviewers such as Gamer.nl and BaziCenter commend the game for its compelling story and strong voice acting, which contribute to an engaging experience. The innovative time loop mechanic is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with critics like IGN Japan and Press Start Australia praising its potential to deliver a captivating interactive narrative. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from GameSpot and Worth Playing, emphasize the game's ability to provoke thought and keep players engaged, suggesting that the storytelling aspect is a strong point that resonates well with many players. However, despite these positives, a substantial number of critics have expressed dissatisfaction with the execution of Twelve Minutes. Many reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Comicbook.com, criticize the game for its repetitive and tedious gameplay, which detracts from the initial intrigue. Slant Magazine and TouchArcade point out a lack of emotional depth and humanity, turning what could have been a gripping narrative into a frustrating experience. Technical issues and awkward controls are also common complaints, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com and Digital Trends, with some critics feeling that these flaws overshadow the game's ambitious design. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with Twelve Minutes being recognized for its innovative concept and engaging storytelling, yet marred by execution flaws and gameplay frustrations. While some, like But Why Tho? and PSX Extreme, find value in the experience despite its shortcomings, others, such as GameSpew and New Game Network, suggest that the game may only appeal to a niche audience. Ultimately, Twelve Minutes presents a unique offering in the gaming landscape, yet its reception reflects a divide between those who appreciate its ambition and those who find its execution lacking.

TL;DR

Twelve Minutes impresses with its intriguing narrative and innovative time loop gameplay, winning praise for strong voice acting and engaging storytelling. However, critics are divided, citing repetitive gameplay, lack of emotional depth, and technical issues as major drawbacks. While some see value in its ambition, others believe it may only resonate with a niche audience. In short, it’s a unique experience hampered by execution flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

112 reviews found

Xbox Tavern

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2021