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MONSTER

Ultros

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

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Single Player

AvailableFeb 13, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperHadoque

Overview

Ultros is a psychedelic metroidvania where you wake up stranded on The Sarcophagus — a cosmic uterus holding an ancient, demonic being. Trapped in the loop of a black hole, you will have to explore The Sarcophagus and meet its inhabitants to understand the part you play...

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Ultros impresses with its exploration of environmental themes and philosophical storytelling set in a surreal sci-fi world, winning praise for its rich atmosphere and character depth. However, its convoluted narrative and dense lore have frustrated many players, leaving them feeling lost in its vague delivery. The game delivers a captivating experience for those who appreciate complex stories but may alienate gamers seeking clarity, making it both intriguing and polarizing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for the story of Ultros present a diverse range of opinions, highlighting several positive aspects that resonate with many critics. Several reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and GameGrin, appreciate the game's encouragement of exploration and discovery, with intriguing characters and a unique sci-fi narrative that emphasizes environmental themes. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG also commend the meaningful storytelling woven into the gameplay, where players engage with philosophical concepts and the cyclical nature of life and death. The artistic and surreal atmosphere, as noted by TheSixthAxis and Metro GameCentral, enhances the experience, creating a dream-like quality that invites players to immerse themselves in the rich lore and complex world-building. However, the narrative's execution has drawn significant criticism from various reviewers. Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected express frustration over the convoluted and opaque nature of the story, describing it as inaccessible and delivered in vague, "flowery" language that can alienate players. Critics like Hooked Gamers and Digital Trends echo this sentiment, pointing out that the intentionally mysterious elements may leave players feeling lost, as the clues do not always coalesce into a coherent narrative. The dense lore and heady themes, while intriguing to some, have been deemed pretentious or overly complex by others, leading to a mixed reception regarding the overall clarity of the story. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Ultros offers a captivating and unique narrative experience, its execution presents challenges that may hinder player engagement. Many appreciate the thought-provoking themes and the surreal atmosphere, as highlighted by critics like PlayStation Universe and TierraGamer, yet the convoluted storytelling and the need for extensive exploration to uncover the plot have left some feeling frustrated. The game appears to cater to a niche audience that values deep, philosophical storytelling, but it may not resonate with those seeking a more straightforward narrative experience. This duality in reception underscores the complexity of Ultros' storytelling, making it both a fascinating and polarizing title in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ultros impresses with its innovative mix of Metroidvania exploration, strategic combat, and unique gardening mechanics, earning praise for creativity and engaging gameplay. However, critics highlight notable flaws like awkward combat, frustrating backtracking, and unclear guidance that can disrupt the experience. While its ambition shines, the game needs refinement to fully captivate players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ultros has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its innovative mechanics and unique blend of genres. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlight the traditional Metroidvania platforming combined with a thoughtful combat system that encourages strategic play rather than brute force. The incorporation of gardening elements, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin, adds a refreshing layer to the gameplay, allowing players to nurture their environment while exploring. Critics such as PC Gamer and TheSixthAxis also commend the game's fast-paced combat and the intriguing time loop mechanic that challenges players to think creatively about their actions and strategies, enhancing the overall experience. However, Ultros is not without its criticisms. Many reviewers point out issues with combat mechanics and level design. For instance, GamingTrend mentions that the weight of character actions feels slightly off, which can detract from the overall experience. Digital Trends and PlayStation Universe echo this sentiment, noting frustrating backtracking and pacing issues that can disrupt the flow of gameplay. Additionally, there are concerns about the lack of guidance and clarity in the game's visual design, as highlighted by critics like IGN France and Metro GameCentral, which can lead to accidental soft-locks and confusion for players navigating the game’s intricate mechanics. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Ultros offers a unique and innovative gameplay experience, it also suffers from notable flaws that may hinder enjoyment. The combination of Metroidvania elements with gardening and time loop mechanics is praised for its creativity, as seen in the reviews from GameOver.gr and Multiplayer.it. However, the execution of combat and exploration mechanics leaves room for improvement, as many critics feel the game could benefit from more polished controls and clearer guidance. As a result, Ultros stands out for its ambition and originality, yet it faces challenges that could affect its reception among players seeking a more refined experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ultros wows with its breathtaking, psychedelic visuals, earning rave reviews for its vibrant colors and hand-drawn art style. Critics praise the game's immersive environments and unique design, led by Niklas 'El Huervo' Åkerblad. However, some note that the intricate visuals can overwhelm players, obscuring important gameplay elements. Despite these concerns, the overwhelming consensus celebrates Ultros as a visually stunning and innovative title, standing out in the gaming landscape.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Ultros have garnered widespread acclaim among critics, with many praising its breathtaking and psychedelic aesthetic. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and TechRadar Gaming highlighted the game's vibrant color palette and intricate environmental design, noting that the visuals create an immersive experience that captures the essence of its alien world. Critics such as GameGrin and Hey Poor Player emphasized the unique hand-drawn art style, which evokes a sense of nostalgia while also feeling fresh and innovative. The art direction, particularly attributed to Niklas 'El Huervo' Åkerblad, has been described as stunning and captivating, with a variety of environments that encourage exploration and discovery, as noted by TRG and Metro GameCentral. However, despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks regarding the game's visual clarity. COGconnected and Digital Trends mentioned that the abundance of colors and intricate designs can sometimes overwhelm players, making it difficult to distinguish important interactive elements within the environment. This sentiment was echoed by Jeuxvideo.com and PC Gamer, who noted that while the visuals are impressive, they can hinder gameplay by obscuring critical paths or items. Critics like Hooked Gamers also raised concerns about the blending of foreground and background elements, which could detract from the overall gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ultros features a striking and visually stunning art style that is both immersive and unique. The majority of reviews reflect a deep appreciation for the game's psychedelic visuals and the creativity behind its design, with many highlighting the effective use of color and detail. While there are valid concerns regarding readability and clarity, the positive sentiments far outweigh the negatives, indicating that Ultros successfully delivers a captivating visual experience that resonates with players. As noted by XboxEra, the game's mesmerizing design, influenced by surrealism and cosmic horror, positions it as a standout title in the realm of video game graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of Ultros are critically acclaimed for their ability to elevate the gaming experience, blending diverse influences and natural sounds to create an immersive atmosphere. Reviewers praise its rich soundscape that enhances exploration and gameplay, though some note combat sounds lack variety and the absence of character voices may lead to detachment. Overall, the soundtrack is a standout element that deeply enriches the game's unique ambiance and thematic depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Ultros have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight its ability to enhance the overall gaming experience. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Multiplayer.it praise the brilliant score that blends diverse musical influences, including Swedish and South American elements, which elevates both introspective moments and intense boss battles. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Trends emphasize the atmospheric qualities of the soundtrack, noting how it incorporates natural sounds from the Amazon to create a rich soundscape that resonates with the themes of regeneration and nature. The immersive qualities of the music are further underscored by GameGrin and Hey Poor Player, who appreciate how the relaxing and chill compositions complement exploration and gardening aspects of the game, rewarding players for strategic gameplay. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out a few shortcomings in the sound design. Softpedia mentions that while the soundtrack blends well with the environment, the combat sounds may feel weak due to a lack of variety in sound effects, specifically noting the similarity in blade swooshes. Additionally, while the absence of character voiceovers is not seen as a major issue, it does contribute to a sense of detachment in the audio experience. This sentiment is echoed by TheSixthAxis, which notes that while the ambient soundtrack enhances the mysterious atmosphere, it may not fully resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Ultros significantly contribute to the game's unique atmosphere and immersive experience. The majority of reviewers, including IGN France and PC Gamer, highlight how the soundtrack complements the visual design and narrative, creating a dreamlike and captivating environment. With a strong emphasis on atmospheric and thematic coherence, Ultros's sound design has been recognized as a key component of its success, making it a standout feature that enhances the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Ultros" delivers a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. PC players enjoy smooth controls, while PS5 users praise agility and responsiveness. However, bugs plague the PC version, causing frustrating gameplay issues, and both PS5 and Xbox Series X suffer from janky mechanics and performance hiccups. Critics agree that while the game shows potential, it desperately needs refinement to enhance the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Ultros" varies significantly across different gaming platforms, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. On PC, GameGrin highlighted a positive experience with smooth controls and gameplay, particularly when using an Xbox controller, indicating that the game performs well in terms of responsiveness and action mechanics. On the PS5, TierraGamer praised the controls as being technically impressive, contributing to a sense of agility and control within the game. The Xbox Series X version also has its merits, with the game offering both graphics and performance modes, which allows players to choose their preferred experience. However, there are notable negatives across all platforms that detract from the overall experience. Digital Trends reported frustrating bugs on PC, such as fragile walls not breaking properly and issues with sticky wall jumps, which can significantly impact gameplay. On the PS5, IGN France pointed out the potential for accidental soft-locks due to the game's experimental mechanics, while Push Square and TechRadar Gaming mentioned janky moments and finicky controls with the extractor tool, leading to frustrations during gameplay. XboxEra echoed similar concerns for the Xbox Series X, noting noticeable tearing issues in larger rooms, although the framerate remained stable overall. In summary, the overall consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception regarding the technical performance of "Ultros" across platforms. While there are commendable aspects, such as smooth controls on PC and responsive gameplay on PS5, the presence of bugs, janky mechanics, and performance issues cannot be overlooked. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN France underscore the need for improvements to enhance the gameplay experience, suggesting that while "Ultros" has potential, it may require further refinement to fully realize its capabilities across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ultros offers a promising replay experience with innovative mechanics and multiple endings that encourage exploration, but it’s marred by repetitive time loops and clunky combat. Critics celebrate its strategic depth and hidden secrets, yet warn that frustrating elements like backtracking and lack of guidance could hinder enjoyment. The game shines for those willing to invest time, but it may not resonate with everyone. Overall, it’s a mixed bag of excitement and caution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Ultros is a blend of enthusiasm and caution, with many critics highlighting its innovative mechanics and potential for multiple playthroughs. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected praise the game's gardening mechanics and roguelite structure, which encourage exploration and experimentation. The persistent gardens and secret areas noted by COGconnected, along with the multiple endings mentioned by Multiplayer.it and IGN France, suggest that players can enjoy varied experiences with each playthrough. Critics like GameGrin and TechRadar Gaming also emphasize the strategic gameplay decisions and hidden secrets that can enhance the replayability, making the game appealing for those who enjoy delving deeper into its world. However, several reviewers express concerns that could detract from the overall replay experience. Hey Poor Player points out that the repetitive nature of the time loop mechanic and the loss of abilities between runs can make the game feel tedious. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and Softpedia mention that the lack of guidance and fluidity in combat may lead to frustration, while Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe highlight the potential annoyance of backtracking, which can disrupt immersion. The balance between engaging gameplay and tedious elements is a recurring theme, suggesting that while the game has merits, it may not be enjoyable for all players. In summary, while critics recognize Ultros as having significant replay value through its unique mechanics and exploration opportunities, there is a notable divide in opinions regarding its execution. The positive aspects, such as the potential for multiple endings and strategic gameplay, are tempered by criticisms of repetitive elements and combat fluidity. The consensus leans towards an appreciation for the game's innovative design, yet it also acknowledges that its pacing and mechanics may require patience and a willingness to invest time to fully appreciate its offerings. Critics like PC Gamer and TheSixthAxis encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting both the rewarding exploration and the challenges posed by the game's structure.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Ultros is primarily positive, with many critics praising its stunning visual design and unique gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlight the game's masterful environmental storytelling and solid Metroidvania mechanics, suggesting that it rewards players who appreciate the journey. Critics from GameGrin and Multiplayer.it also commend the game for its innovative gameplay and captivating visuals, describing it as a memorable and engaging experience. The incorporation of a gardening mechanic within the Metroidvania framework is noted as a fresh twist, with IGN France emphasizing its narrative depth and artistic ambition. The game's soundtrack has also received accolades, contributing to its immersive atmosphere. However, Ultros is not without its flaws, as many reviewers point out significant shortcomings in gameplay and narrative coherence. Critics like COGconnected and Hey Poor Player express concerns about the combat mechanics feeling familiar and underwhelming, with some even labeling the narrative as convoluted or pretentious. Technical issues and confusing game systems are also highlighted by Digital Trends and Softpedia, suggesting that these elements detract from the overall experience and may lead to player frustration. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Hooked Gamers and TheSixthAxis, mention that while the game showcases ambition, it struggles to maintain a cohesive identity, which may hinder its appeal to a broader audience. The consensus among critics indicates that Ultros is a visually striking and creatively ambitious title that may resonate well with fans of the Metroidvania genre, despite its notable flaws. Many reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and PlayStation Universe, recommend it for its artistic merits and thematic depth, while acknowledging that its gameplay issues could alienate some players. Ultimately, while Ultros presents a unique and engaging experience, it requires a willingness to navigate its complexities and imperfections, making it a polarizing entry in the genre. Critics like TierraGamer and TRG express hope for its potential to become a classic, suggesting that with time and refinement, Ultros could solidify its place in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Ultros dazzles with stunning visuals and innovative gameplay, earning praise for its environmental storytelling and unique gardening mechanic. Critics laud its artistic ambition and immersive soundtrack, making it a compelling Metroidvania experience. However, significant flaws mar the journey, from underwhelming combat to narrative confusion and technical issues. While the game shows promise and may resonate with genre fans, its complexities could alienate others. Ultimately, Ultros stands as a polarizing title with the potential to become a classic if refined.

MONSTER

Reviews

85 reviews found

TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 14, 2024