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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

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X

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

The Story of Ultros impresses with its immersive, thought-provoking narrative and rich themes of exploration and environmentalism, but critics are divided on its accessibility. While some praise its depth and complexity, others find the convoluted and vague storytelling frustrating, leading to disconnection and confusion. The game highlights a common trend in modern narratives where ambitious storytelling can hinder player engagement.

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 Story of Ultros has garnered a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting its intriguing and immersive narrative. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and GameGrin appreciate the game's encouragement of exploration and discovery, praising its unique sci-fi story and the variety of interesting characters within a psychedelic world. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG commend the meaningful themes woven into the narrative, particularly the focus on environmentalism and the cyclical nature of existence. The game’s ability to promote reflection and learning, as noted by But Why Tho?, adds depth to the experience, making it not just a story to follow but one that resonates on a philosophical level. On the flip side, several critics express frustration with the narrative's accessibility and clarity. Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected describe the story as convoluted and opaque, with a delivery that can feel pretentious or overly complex. The use of vague and 'flowery' language, as mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming, detracts from the overall experience, leaving some players feeling lost. Critics like Hooked Gamers and Digital Trends note that the intentionally mysterious and surreal elements can lead to a sense of disconnection, where clues do not fully align with the main storyline, making it challenging for players to grasp the overarching narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the Story of Ultros presents a rich and thought-provoking narrative filled with cosmic themes and environmental messages, it struggles with accessibility and clarity. Critics like IGN France and Metro GameCentral emphasize the need for exploration and dissection of the story, which can be both a rewarding and frustrating experience. The mixed sentiments suggest that while some players may appreciate the depth and complexity of the narrative, others may find it difficult to engage fully due to its convoluted nature. This dichotomy reflects a broader trend in modern gaming narratives, where ambition in storytelling can sometimes overshadow clarity and player comprehension.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ultros impresses with innovative gameplay that fuses Metroidvania elements with a unique gardening system and a creative time loop mechanic. Critics celebrate its strategic depth and rewarding exploration, but frustrations arise over unclear navigation and a simplistic combat system. Despite some shortcomings, it successfully carves a niche for fans seeking a blend of action and puzzle-solving. Overall, Ultros stands out in the genre, offering a fresh yet flawed experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

27%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ultros has been met with a generally positive reception, particularly for its innovative mechanics that blend traditional Metroidvania elements with unique features. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameGrin have praised the game's thoughtful combat mechanics and the incorporation of a gardening system, which adds a layer of strategy and depth to the gameplay. The time loop mechanic, highlighted by GameOver.gr and Hey Poor Player, is seen as a fresh concept that challenges players to think creatively about their actions and progression. Additionally, the exploration aspect has garnered appreciation, with PC Gamer noting the fast-paced combat and the rewarding nature of mastering various strategies and combos. However, several reviewers have pointed out notable shortcomings in Ultros. Critics such as Digital Trends and GamingTrend have expressed frustrations with the game's unclear visual design and the lack of guidance, which can lead to confusing navigation and frustrating backtracking. The combat system has been described as simple and sometimes lacking in variety, with some reviewers like Push Square noting that it may not be the primary focus of the game. Additionally, the gardening mechanic, while innovative, has been criticized for being cumbersome or leading to accidental soft-locks, as mentioned by IGN France. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ultros offers a unique and engaging experience within the Metroidvania genre, marked by its innovative mechanics and strategic depth. While there are valid criticisms regarding combat simplicity and navigation issues, the game's strengths in exploration and creative gameplay elements have resonated with many reviewers. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Multiplayer.it have highlighted the balance between combat and gardening as a refreshing take on the genre, suggesting that despite its flaws, Ultros has carved out a distinctive niche that appeals to fans of both action and puzzle-solving gameplay.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ultros is lauded for its stunning, psychedelic visuals that enhance the game's immersive experience, with critics praising its vibrant colors and hand-drawn art style. However, some reviewers caution that the intricate design can sometimes confuse players, obscuring key interactive elements. Overall, the game is celebrated for its unique aesthetic, despite minor clarity issues.

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 from critics, who consistently highlight the game's breathtaking and psychedelic aesthetic. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming laud the vibrant cosmic colors and detailed environments, emphasizing how the art style enhances the game's mysterious and immersive qualities. Critics like Digital Trends and GameGrin echo this sentiment, noting the trippy, day-glo brightness that creates a unique and captivating atmosphere. The hand-drawn art style, inspired by artists like Moebius, is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, with many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe, describing the visuals as a feast for the eyes that beautifully complement the game's narrative and setting. However, amidst the praise, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks regarding the game's visual design. COGconnected and Jeuxvideo.com caution that the abundance of colors and intricate details can sometimes lead to confusion, making it difficult for players to distinguish important interactive elements. This sentiment is echoed by critics like PC Gamer and Pure Nintendo, who note that while the visuals are stunning, they can occasionally overwhelm players, hindering exploration and clarity. The blending of foreground and background elements, as mentioned by Hooked Gamers, can also pose challenges to gameplay, suggesting that the vibrant design may not always serve the functional needs of the player. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising Ultros for its striking and immersive graphics. The game's unique visual style, characterized by its psychedelic elements and vibrant colors, has been celebrated as one of its most compelling features. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TRG highlight how the art direction encourages exploration and discovery, further enhancing the player's experience. While some concerns about clarity and readability persist, the general sentiment reflects that Ultros successfully delivers a visually stunning and artistically rich experience that stands out in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ultros' sound design and music are critically acclaimed for their immersive and atmospheric qualities, blending Swedish and Peruvian influences to enhance gameplay. Reviewers praise the rich soundtrack by Oscar Rydelius, which evokes themes of nature and regeneration. While some noted minor issues like weak combat sounds and a lack of character voiceovers, the overall consensus highlights the music as a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game's identity and immersive experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

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 among critics, with many praising the game's atmospheric and immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? highlighted the brilliant score that melds Swedish and Peruvian influences, enhancing both introspective moments and intense boss battles. Similarly, Checkpoint Gaming commended the original soundtrack by Oscar Rydelius for its atmospheric quality, which incorporates sounds from the Amazon to evoke themes of regeneration and nature. Critics like Digital Trends and PC Gamer noted the hypnotic and ambient qualities of the score, describing it as rich and capable of enhancing the game's alien atmosphere. Overall, the music is consistently recognized as a significant contributor to the game's immersive experience, with many reviewers, including TheXboxHub and Multiplayer.it, emphasizing its magical and ethereal qualities that elevate exploration and gameplay. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics pointed out some shortcomings in the sound design. For instance, Softpedia mentioned that while the soundtrack blends well with the environment, combat sounds could feel weak due to repetitive blade swooshes. Additionally, while the absence of character voiceovers was noted by some, it was generally considered a minor issue. TheSixthAxis also brought attention to the ambient soundtrack's reliance on familiar hooks, which, while nostalgic, might not resonate with all players. These critiques suggest that while the music and sound design are largely effective, there are areas where they could be refined to enhance the overall experience further. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Ultros are exceptional, contributing significantly to the game's overall atmosphere and immersion. The diverse and captivating soundtrack has been praised for its ability to complement the visual design and thematic elements of the game, as noted by critics like Hey Poor Player and TierraGamer. The majority of reviewers agree that the audio experience in Ultros is a standout feature, making it a key aspect of the game's identity. Overall, the positive sentiments surrounding the sound design and music underscore its importance in creating a unique and engaging gaming experience.

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 shows promise across gaming platforms, with smooth controls on PC and impressive responsiveness on PS5. However, it’s plagued by significant issues: PC suffers from frustrating bugs, PS5 faces gameplay disruptions, and the Nintendo Switch struggles with performance. While some critics found it technically impressive, consistent flaws highlight the need for refinement to unlock its full potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Ultros across various gaming platforms, it's clear that there are notable positives for each system. On PC, GameGrin praised the smooth controls and gameplay experience, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of the Xbox controller, which suggests that the game can perform well in optimal conditions. On the PS5, TierraGamer noted the responsive and technically impressive controls that enhance the sense of agility and control in gameplay. Similarly, while XboxEra acknowledged some graphical issues, they also pointed out that the game features both a graphics and performance mode, which allows players to choose their preferred experience. Overall, these positives indicate that when Ultros functions as intended, it can deliver a satisfying gaming experience. However, there are several negatives that critics have pointed out across the platforms. On PC, Digital Trends highlighted frustrating bugs, such as fragile walls not breaking properly and a sticky wall jump mechanic, which detracted from the overall gameplay experience. On the PS5, IGN France mentioned the potential for accidental soft-locks due to the game's experimental mechanics, which can lead to significant frustrations, while Push Square noted janky moments and issues with fast-travel mechanics. TechRadar Gaming and TRG both reported problems with the finicky extractor tool, which further complicates the gameplay experience. For the Nintendo Switch, Pure Nintendo pointed out lengthy load times and issues with jumping smoothness, indicating that this version may struggle more than others. On Xbox Series X, while the framerate was stable, tearing issues in larger rooms were noted, suggesting that technical hiccups are still present. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Ultros has the potential for a strong technical performance, it is marred by a variety of issues across platforms. The PC version suffers from frustrating bugs, the PS5 has problems with mechanics and tools that can disrupt gameplay, and the Nintendo Switch version faces performance challenges that hinder the experience. While some critics, like GameGrin and TierraGamer, found aspects of the game to be technically impressive, the recurring themes of inconsistency and technical flaws suggest that Ultros may require further refinement to reach its full potential across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ultros offers a mixed but mostly positive replay experience, praised for its innovative gardening and roguelite mechanics that promote exploration and strategy. Critics highlight its persistent gardens and potential for multiple endings as strong points. However, concerns about repetitive gameplay, unclear mechanics, and slow combat may hinder enjoyment. While dedicated players may find value in exploration, patience is key to navigating its frustrations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

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 mixed but leans towards the positive, with many critics highlighting its innovative mechanics and structural design that encourage multiple playthroughs. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin praise the inclusion of gardening mechanics and roguelite elements, which foster exploration and strategic gameplay. The game’s persistent gardens and looping structure are noted by COGconnected and GamingTrend as features that allow players to retain progress and explore secret areas, enhancing the overall replayability. Additionally, IGN France emphasizes the potential for multiple endings and deeper mysteries, suggesting that players who invest time will find rewarding experiences. However, several reviews point out significant drawbacks that may hinder the replay experience. Critics such as Hey Poor Player and Jeuxvideo.com express concerns about the repetitive nature of the time loop mechanic and the lack of guidance, which can lead to frustration. The combat mechanics have been described as slow and inelegant, with some bosses relying on specific weaknesses, as noted by COGconnected. Furthermore, Softpedia and XboxEra mention that while the game offers opportunities for exploration and testing different playstyles, the backtracking and tedious elements can detract from immersion and enjoyment, potentially making replaying feel like a slog. In summary, while Ultros presents a unique blend of gardening and roguelite mechanics that many critics find engaging and conducive to replayability, significant concerns about repetitive gameplay and unclear mechanics persist. The overall consensus suggests that while the game has the potential to offer a rewarding experience for dedicated players, it may require patience and a willingness to navigate its frustrations. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and The Enemy highlight the exploration aspect as a strong point, indicating that those who appreciate discovery may find enough value to justify multiple playthroughs.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Ultros is largely positive, with many critics praising its stunning visual design and unique gameplay mechanics. Reviewers from outlets like But Why Tho? and GameGrin highlight the game's environmental storytelling and innovative gardening mechanics, noting that Ultros offers a fresh and immersive experience within the Metroidvania genre. Critics such as IGN France and TechRadar Gaming commend the game's thematic depth and meaningful narrative, emphasizing its artistic ambition and the emotional impact it can have on players. The combination of beautiful visuals, engaging gameplay, and a captivating soundtrack is frequently mentioned, with GameOver.gr and TRG calling it a compelling addition to the genre that showcases promise. However, several critics point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. COGconnected and Hey Poor Player express concerns about the combat and exploration elements feeling familiar and lacking imagination, while others, like Digital Trends and Softpedia, mention convoluted design choices and technical issues that hinder gameplay. The narrative is often criticized for being obtuse or pretentious, as seen in the reviews from GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis, which suggest that the game's complexity may lead to frustration rather than enjoyment. Critics such as Hooked Gamers and Voxel also note that while the game is visually stunning, it struggles with unclear objectives and weak combat mechanics. The overall consensus among critics is that Ultros is an ambitious and visually striking title that offers a unique experience, but it may not resonate with all players due to its gameplay issues and complex narrative. While many reviewers, including those from PlayStation Universe and Metro GameCentral, recommend it for fans of the genre, they also caution that its flaws may prevent it from achieving classic status. Ultimately, Ultros is seen as a game that showcases great potential, but it requires patience and investment from players to fully appreciate its depth and intricacies.

TL;DR

Ultros impresses with stunning visuals and innovative gameplay, earning praise for its environmental storytelling and artistic ambition from critics like IGN and GameGrin. However, it faces criticism for familiar combat, convoluted design, and an obtuse narrative, leading to mixed feelings about its overall execution. While many recommend it for Metroidvania fans, its flaws may deter some players, making it a game that demands patience to fully appreciate its potential.

MONSTER

Reviews

86 reviews found

TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 14, 2024