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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...

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Ultros boasts a rich, thought-provoking sci-fi narrative with compelling characters and deep themes of environmentalism and karma, praised for its exploration and artistic depth. However, its convoluted storytelling and vague language leave some players frustrated and confused, creating a divide in reception. While it rewards those willing to engage deeply, it risks alienating players seeking clarity.

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 overall sentiment regarding the story of Ultros showcases a range of intriguing and thought-provoking elements that many critics appreciate. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and GameGrin highlight the game’s encouragement of exploration and its unique sci-fi narrative, which is filled with engaging characters and a psychedelic world setting. Critics such as PlayStation Universe and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the thoughtful storytelling that is woven into every aspect of the game, including its gameplay, soundtrack, and art. The themes of environmentalism, life, death, and karma resonate with several reviewers, with Digital Trends noting the hard sci-fi narrative and its dense lore, while GamingTrend points to the non-linear character development and time loop mechanics that add depth to the narrative experience. However, the reception of Ultros's story is not universally positive, as several critics express frustration with its convoluted and opaque nature. Checkpoint Gaming and COGconnected describe the narrative as inaccessible, with vague and pretentious language that can alienate players. Critics like Hooked Gamers and IGN France mention the intentional obscurity and surreal elements that may leave some players feeling lost or confused. The complexity of the story, as noted by PC Gamer, can make it challenging for players to fully grasp the heady themes and alien terminology, leading to a mixed reception regarding its clarity and coherence. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Ultros offers a rich and engaging narrative filled with philosophical themes and a unique sci-fi setting, it also presents significant challenges in terms of accessibility and clarity. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and TierraGamer appreciate the depth and mystical atmosphere of the story, but the common critiques regarding its convoluted delivery and the potential for player frustration cannot be overlooked. Ultimately, Ultros appears to be a game that rewards exploration and patience, appealing to those willing to delve into its complexities, while simultaneously risking alienation for players seeking a more straightforward narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ultros impresses with its innovative mix of Metroidvania platforming, strategic combat, and a unique gardening system that unlocks new abilities. Critics praise its creative time loop mechanic but note issues like frustrating backtracking, simplistic combat, and potential soft-locks. Despite these drawbacks, the game stands out for its exploration and fresh gameplay features, appealing to fans of the genre.

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 attention for its innovative mechanics and unique blend of genres. Critics such as But Why Tho? and GameGrin highlight the traditional Metroidvania platforming elements combined with thoughtful combat mechanics that encourage strategic play rather than brute force. The introduction of a gardening system, praised by multiple reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and PC Gamer, adds a refreshing layer of complexity, allowing players to cultivate plants that unlock new abilities and areas. The time loop mechanic, noted by critics like Hey Poor Player and GameOver.gr, introduces a fresh challenge, compelling players to think outside the box as they navigate through the game’s world. However, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that may hinder the overall experience. Digital Trends and GamingTrend express concerns regarding frustrating backtracking and unclear visual design, which can lead to confusion and disrupt the flow of gameplay. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from Hooked Gamers and Push Square, mention that while combat is engaging, it can feel simplistic and lacks variety, which may detract from the excitement of encounters. The potential for accidental soft-locks, as noted by IGN France, further complicates the gameplay experience, leaving players frustrated at times. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Ultros presents a compelling mix of traditional Metroidvania elements with innovative mechanics, particularly in gardening and time loops. While the game is praised for its creativity and strategic depth, it also faces criticism for its execution, particularly regarding combat simplicity and navigation challenges. Critics like COGconnected and TechRadar Gaming acknowledge that despite its shortcomings, the exploration and unique gameplay features make Ultros a noteworthy entry in the genre, appealing to players who appreciate both innovation and the classic Metroidvania experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ultros dazzles with its breathtaking, psychedelic visuals that critics hail as "vibrant" and "hypnotic," drawing on influences from iconic artists. While the immersive art creates a captivating atmosphere, some reviewers note that the overwhelming colors can obscure gameplay elements, making navigation tricky. Despite these clarity issues, the game's stunning graphics and imaginative design elevate the overall experience, making Ultros a standout title in visual artistry.

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 TechRadar Gaming praise the environmental design as "breathtaking" and "vibrant," respectively, emphasizing the colorful and detailed scenes that create an immersive experience. Critics like Hey Poor Player and Metro GameCentral note the hypnotic art style, with influences from renowned artists like Moebius, which contributes to the game's unique and captivating atmosphere. The vibrant neon colors and intricate backgrounds are frequently described as visually stunning, with many reviewers, including GameGrin and IGN France, celebrating the game's ability to transport players into a fantastical world filled with alien landscapes and imaginative character designs. However, despite the overwhelming praise for the visual artistry, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks. COGconnected and Digital Trends mention that the abundance of colors and visual energy can sometimes make it difficult for players to distinguish important interactive elements, potentially hindering gameplay. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and PC Gamer echo this sentiment, noting that while the visuals are impressive, they can also overwhelm players, leading to map clarity issues and difficulty in noticing exploration areas. Hooked Gamers also highlight how the blending of foreground and background elements can obscure gameplay, suggesting that while the visuals enhance the atmosphere, they can detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Ultros features remarkable graphics and visual design that elevate the gaming experience. Reviewers consistently laud the game's psychedelic and vibrant art style, which is described as immersive and unique, with many critics, including GamingTrend and TRG, emphasizing the encouragement of exploration and discovery within its beautifully crafted environments. While some concerns regarding clarity and readability have been raised, they do not overshadow the general admiration for the game's artistic direction. Ultimately, Ultros stands out as a visually stunning title that successfully combines artistic ambition with engaging gameplay, making it a memorable experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ultros' sound design and music have received rave reviews for their immersive and atmospheric qualities, blending Swedish and Peruvian influences to enhance gameplay. Critics call the score "hypnotic" and effective, enriching the game's themes of nature and regeneration. However, some noted that combat sounds can feel weak and the ambient music may include familiar elements that don't resonate with everyone. Overall, the audio experience significantly elevates the game, making it a standout feature.

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, with many praising the game's atmospheric and immersive audio experience. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlighted the "brilliant score" that combines Swedish and Peruvian music, enhancing both introspective moments and intense boss battles. Similarly, Checkpoint Gaming emphasized the original soundtrack's atmospheric quality, noting how it incorporates sounds from the Amazon to create a balance of familiarity and the unknown, which aligns perfectly with the game's themes of regeneration and nature. Critics such as Digital Trends and Multiplayer.it also praised the captivating and rich soundscapes, with Digital Trends describing the score as "positively hypnotic" and Multiplayer.it noting the effective blend of classical instruments with South American influences. Overall, the music and sound design have been recognized for their ability to elevate the gameplay experience, drawing players deeper into the world of Ultros. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics pointed out some areas for improvement. Softpedia mentioned that while the soundtrack blends well with the environment, combat sounds may feel somewhat weak due to their similarity, which could detract from the overall audio experience during intense moments. Additionally, while the absence of character voices was noted, it was generally considered a minor issue. TheSixthAxis noted that the ambient soundtrack, while enhancing the mysterious atmosphere, also included familiar hooks that might not resonate with all players. These critiques suggest that while the sound design is strong, there are moments where it could be more distinctive or impactful. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Ultros are exceptional, contributing significantly to the game's immersive and atmospheric qualities. With most reviewers, including IGN France and PC Gamer, praising the soundtrack for enhancing the game's unique and dream-like narrative, it is clear that the audio elements play a crucial role in the player's experience. Critics like TierraGamer and PlayStation Universe echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how the music complements the landscapes and events of the game, ultimately creating a captivating and memorable auditory 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 delivers smooth controls and solid performance on PC and PS5, but suffers from frustrating bugs and gameplay issues like accidental soft-locks and janky mechanics. Critics agree that while there are commendable aspects, significant improvements are needed across all platforms to enhance the player 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 across platforms, with some positive aspects highlighted by critics. On PC, GameGrin praised the smooth controls and gameplay experience, particularly when using an Xbox controller, indicating that the game performs well in terms of responsiveness and action execution. On the PS5, TierraGamer noted the responsive and technically impressive controls, which contribute to a sense of agility and control in gameplay. XboxEra also acknowledged the presence of a graphics and performance mode on the Xbox Series X, which, despite some issues, allows for a generally stable framerate, enhancing the overall visual experience. However, the negatives associated with Ultros cannot be overlooked. On PC, Digital Trends pointed out frustrating bugs, such as fragile walls not breaking correctly and a sticky wall jump mechanic that detracts from the gameplay experience. For PS5 users, IGN France reported potential accidental soft-locks due to the game’s experimental mechanics, leading to frustrations that could be alleviated by reloading previous loops. Push Square echoed this sentiment, mentioning janky moments and frustrations with the fast-travel mechanics. Additionally, both TechRadar Gaming and TRG highlighted issues with the finicky use of the extractor tool, which complicates gameplay, especially when using a controller. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Ultros has some commendable technical aspects, particularly on PC and PS5, significant issues persist across all platforms. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN France emphasize the need for improvements to address bugs and gameplay mechanics that can lead to frustrating experiences. The feedback suggests that while the game shows promise with its controls and performance modes, it requires further refinement to enhance the overall technical performance and ensure a smoother experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Ultros earns praise for its innovative mechanics and roguelite design, promising extensive replay value through exploration and multiple endings. However, critics warn of repetitive gameplay and lack of clarity that could frustrate players seeking a smoother experience. It’s a mixed bag—great for dedicated explorers but possibly tedious for those preferring straightforward gameplay.

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 notably positive, with many critics highlighting its innovative mechanics and structural design that encourage multiple playthroughs. Checkpoint Gaming praises the introduction of gardening mechanics, which has birthed a new sub-genre termed 'gardenvanias', suggesting that players will find new experiences and challenges with each cycle. Similarly, COGconnected points out the persistent gardens and roguelite structure that allow players to retain progress, while GameGrin emphasizes the game's encouragement of exploration and experimentation, suggesting that players can approach the game in various ways for different outcomes. Critics like IGN France and TechRadar Gaming also note the potential for extended gameplay through multiple endings and hidden secrets, reinforcing the idea that players willing to invest time will find substantial replay value. However, the critics also express significant concerns regarding certain aspects of the game that may hinder its replayability. Hey Poor Player argues that the repetitive nature of the time loop mechanic and the loss of abilities can make the experience feel tedious, while Jeuxvideo.com mentions the lack of guidance and depth in combat, leading to repetitive sequences that may frustrate players. Additionally, Softpedia points out that the backtracking required for exploration can limit immersion and may frustrate some players, indicating that while the game offers potential for replay, it also demands patience and time investment that might not appeal to everyone. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ultros possesses a solid foundation for replay value through its unique mechanics and roguelite structure, though it is not without its flaws. Critics like PC Gamer and TheSixthAxis highlight the rewarding nature of exploration and the strategic considerations that come with the game's design. However, the concerns raised by critics such as Hey Poor Player and Jeuxvideo.com about repetitive gameplay and lack of clarity suggest that while Ultros can be rewarding for dedicated players, it may also frustrate those looking for a more streamlined experience. Thus, the game presents a mixed bag, appealing to those who appreciate depth and exploration but potentially alienating players who prefer a more straightforward approach.

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 regarding "Ultros" among critics is largely positive, with many praising its stunning visual design and unique gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like But Why Tho? highlight the game's masterful environmental storytelling and rewarding Metroidvania mechanics, suggesting a deep appreciation for the journey it offers players. Critics from GameGrin and IGN France echo this sentiment, emphasizing the game's artistic vision and innovative gameplay elements. The incorporation of a gardening mechanic within the Metroidvania framework is noted as a fresh take on the genre, and the captivating soundtrack further enhances the immersive experience. The game is described as visually striking, with many reviewers, including Digital Trends and TechRadar Gaming, commending its thematic depth and artistic ambition. However, despite its numerous strengths, "Ultros" is not without its shortcomings. Several critics, such as COGconnected and Hey Poor Player, point out issues with the combat mechanics and exploration aspects, describing them as somewhat familiar and lacking in imagination. The narrative is often criticized for being convoluted and pretentious, leading to confusion among players, as noted by Softpedia and Hooked Gamers. Additionally, technical issues and gameplay frustrations are mentioned by multiple reviewers, including GamingTrend and Voxel, indicating that while the game has a solid foundation, it struggles with execution in certain areas. The overall consensus among critics suggests that "Ultros" is a unique and ambitious entry in the Metroidvania genre that excels in visual design and creativity but is hampered by gameplay issues and a convoluted narrative. While many reviewers, like Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe, recommend it for genre enthusiasts, they also caution potential players about its flaws. Critics agree that "Ultros" presents a captivating experience that challenges conventions, yet it may not resonate with everyone due to its experimental nature and gameplay inconsistencies. Ultimately, the game is seen as a promising addition to the genre, with the potential for future refinement and growth.

TL;DR

"Ultros" impresses critics with its stunning visuals, innovative gameplay, and deep environmental storytelling, earning praise for its fresh Metroidvania approach and captivating soundtrack. However, it suffers from familiar combat mechanics, a convoluted narrative, and technical issues. While it's recommended for genre fans, its flaws may deter some players. Overall, it's a bold, ambitious title with room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

85 reviews found

TierraGamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 14, 2024