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Unknown 9: Awakening

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Unknown 9: Awakening
Item: Unknown 9: Awakening
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Single Player

AvailableOct 18, 2024

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperReflector

Overview

Unknown9: Awakening is your entry point into a new Storyworld.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening offers a mixed bag of storytelling with potential but suffers from execution flaws. Critics praise the engaging character of Haroona and rich cultural context, but many find the narrative boring, clichéd, and emotionally flat. A convoluted plot and shallow character development lead to disappointment, leaving players craving a more cohesive and impactful experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

28%

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

The story of Unknown 9: Awakening has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with some highlighting its potential and engaging elements. Reviewers like TheXboxHub and Checkpoint Gaming appreciate the narrative's gradual improvement, noting that while it may start slowly, it ultimately develops into a more engaging experience. The character of Haroona, portrayed as a South Asian heroine on a quest for revenge, is often praised for her depth and relatability. Critics such as Digital Trends and Push Square commend the rich cultural context and well-acted performances, particularly noting the compelling lore and interesting factions that contribute to the narrative's charm. The setting, reminiscent of pulpy adventure stories, also receives positive mentions, suggesting a blend of ancient civilization themes with modern storytelling. On the flip side, many critics express significant concerns about the narrative's execution. Atomix and Eurogamer Germany describe the story as boring and lacking emotional weight, with clichés and shallow character development being common criticisms. Digital Chumps and Noisy Pixel echo these sentiments, pointing out that the story feels rushed and fails to adequately establish its world and characters. The narrative's reliance on familiar tropes and underwhelming character arcs leads to a sense of disconnection, as noted by Gameliner and Gaming Age. Moreover, the abundance of unexplained terminology and convoluted plot points leave some reviewers feeling lost, as highlighted by IGN Benelux and Shacknews. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Unknown 9: Awakening presents an intriguing premise with a richly constructed universe, yet struggles with execution and depth. While some reviewers, like Multiplayer.it and Softpedia, find redeeming qualities in the narrative's potential and character arcs, the overarching sentiment leans toward disappointment due to its chaotic storytelling and lack of engagement. Many critics agree that while there are flashes of brilliance, the game ultimately falls short of delivering a compelling and cohesive narrative experience, leaving players yearning for more depth and clarity in its storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening offers a mix of intriguing gameplay elements, with critics praising its fun combat system and unique powers, particularly the "Step" ability that enhances creativity. However, the game is marred by repetitive combat, poor AI, and linear design, leading to a frustrating experience for many. Despite some engaging moments, the overall execution falls flat, resulting in a mixed reception where potential is overshadowed by shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

28%

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

The gameplay of Unknown 9: Awakening has garnered some praise from critics, particularly for its unique mechanics and engaging elements. Several reviewers, such as Digital Trends and Metro GameCentral, highlighted the fun and intuitive nature of the combat system, which allows for strategic experimentation through Haroona's unique powers. Checkpoint Gaming noted the distinctive "Step" ability, which offers players control over enemies and adds a layer of creativity to encounters. Additionally, some critics appreciated the stealth mechanics and exploration aspects, with GamingBolt mentioning that these elements shine despite the game's linearity. Overall, there are moments of enjoyment noted in the gameplay, particularly in the initial stages where the mechanics feel fresh and engaging. However, a significant number of critics pointed out various shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Many reviews, including those from Atomix and Gamer.no, criticized the gameplay for its repetitiveness and lack of depth, particularly in combat. The combat system is often described as simplistic and poorly executed, with several critics like Gameliner and TrueGaming noting that it becomes monotonous and predictable over time. Furthermore, the AI is frequently mentioned as a weak point, with reviewers such as PlaySense and Eurogamer Germany indicating that it contributes to a frustrating gameplay experience. The linear design and lack of exploration freedom were also highlighted as factors that limit the game's potential, as noted by Shacknews and Vandal. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Unknown 9: Awakening has some interesting and unique gameplay elements, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently engaging experience. Many reviewers agree that the game suffers from repetitive combat, poor AI, and linear level design, which hinder its potential for creativity and enjoyment. Critics like IGN Benelux and Noisy Pixel encapsulate this sentiment by pointing out that although the gameplay has its moments of fun, it is marred by a lack of challenge and depth. In summary, while there are commendable aspects of the gameplay, the prevailing opinion is that the execution leaves much to be desired, leading to a mixed reception overall.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening dazzles with stunning environments and artistic diversity, winning praise from some critics for its creative visuals. However, it suffers from major flaws, including outdated graphics, poor character models, and technical glitches that undermine the experience. The result? A mixed bag where moments of beauty clash with a lack of polish, leaving critics divided on its visual impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

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

The graphics and visual design of Unknown 9: Awakening have garnered a mixed response from critics, with several reviewers highlighting the game's strengths. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and GamingBolt praised the game for its beautiful environments, noting the creative designs of locations and the detail in the world-building. The Fold dimension, in particular, has been singled out for its visually stunning segments that enhance the gameplay experience, as mentioned by Digital Trends. Reviewers like Push Square and XGN also appreciated the artistic elements and diversity of environments, which include steampunk-inspired settings and Eastern influences, suggesting that there is a solid foundation of visual appeal in the game. However, the criticisms of Unknown 9: Awakening are equally pronounced, with many reviewers pointing out significant flaws in the visual presentation. Critics such as Atomix and Eurogamer Germany described the graphics as outdated and poorly designed, failing to meet the standards of current-generation consoles. Character models and animations have been particularly criticized for their lack of polish, with several reviewers, including IGN Benelux and Vandal, noting that they appear generic and stilted. Technical issues, such as frame rate stutters and graphical glitches, have also been highlighted by Softpedia and Noisy Pixel, detracting from the overall experience and immersion. The overall consensus among critics suggests a divide in the perception of Unknown 9: Awakening's graphics and visual design. While there are moments of beauty and creativity that some reviewers celebrate, a significant number of critics feel that the game ultimately falls short due to inconsistent quality and technical shortcomings. Critics like TheXboxHub and Multiplayer.it encapsulate this sentiment by emphasizing the game's lack of polish and the failure to fully utilize the potential of its engine. In summary, Unknown 9: Awakening presents a visually intriguing experience marred by inconsistencies and technical issues, leaving critics divided on its overall visual merit.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening features a divisive sound design and music score. Critics like TheXboxHub praise its strong performances and atmospheric period music, while others, such as Atomix and GameMAG, condemn it as generic and forgettable. Mixed reviews highlight both redeeming qualities and significant flaws, leading to a polarized reception among players regarding the game's audio experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The sound design and music of Unknown 9: Awakening have garnered a mix of opinions from various critics, with some praising certain aspects. TheXboxHub highlighted the "excellent" sound design, noting a robust score and strong performances from the main cast, which suggests that there are elements of the audio experience that resonate well with players. TrueGaming also pointed out that the sound design is the strongest aspect of the game, particularly praising the period-appropriate music, indicating that there are moments where the audio successfully enhances the overall atmosphere. Additionally, Vandal mentioned the inclusion of Spanish voice acting as a positive contribution to the experience, suggesting a level of localization that could appeal to a broader audience. However, the criticisms surrounding the sound design and music are significant and varied. Atomix described the sound design and music as "generic and forgettable," asserting that the compositions lack memorability and are overshadowed by sound effects. This sentiment is echoed by GameMAG, which found the sound design underwhelming and lacking depth. Furthermore, God is a Geek pointed out inconsistencies in sound direction, with dialogue triggering abruptly, and noted the presence of audio issues. PlaySense also echoed concerns about the unremarkable nature of sound effects, despite acknowledging decent audio quality and good voice acting. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be mixed, with a notable divide in opinions on the game's sound design and music. While some, like TheXboxHub and TrueGaming, appreciate certain elements such as the score and voice performances, others, including Atomix and GameMAG, express disappointment in the overall execution, labeling it as generic and lacking depth. The varying experiences suggest that while there are redeeming qualities, the sound design and music may not meet the expectations of all players, leading to a somewhat polarized reception in this aspect of Unknown 9: Awakening.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Anya Chalotra's voice performance as Haroona in Unknown 9: Awakening is praised for its emotional depth, enhancing the narrative experience, but opinions are mixed. While some critics laud the main cast's performances, others criticize inconsistent direction and lack of depth in supporting characters. Overall, the voice acting shines in spots but reveals significant room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Unknown 9: Awakening has garnered a range of positive feedback, particularly highlighting the performance of Anya Chalotra as the protagonist, Haroona. Critics from various outlets, including IGN Benelux and God is a Geek, praised Chalotra for her ability to convey the character's emotional depth and vulnerability effectively, which adds significant value to the overall narrative experience. TheXboxHub also noted that the strong performances from the main cast contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, while Digital Chumps likened the voice acting to the engaging style of 90s action films, emphasizing its entertainment factor. This sentiment is echoed by GamingBolt, which highlighted the combination of well-written characters and strong voice talent as enhancing the overall experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning Anya Chalotra's performance. Critics from Atomix and TrueGaming pointed out inconsistencies, with Atomix mentioning that Chalotra's portrayal was poorly directed, resulting in an exaggerated accent that detracted from her performance. TrueGaming described the voice acting as generally weak, suggesting that many characters, especially NPCs, lacked emotional depth. Additionally, while some reviews acknowledged the quality of Chalotra's performance, others, such as GameMAG and Oyungezer, indicated that it did not significantly enhance the overall experience, implying a disparity in the effectiveness of the voice acting across the game's cast. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Anya Chalotra's performance as Haroona is a standout aspect of the voice acting, the overall quality is mixed. Many reviewers, including Checkpoint Gaming and Push Square, appreciated the earnestness and charisma of the main character, yet others highlighted shortcomings in direction and emotional depth among supporting characters. The varying opinions indicate that while the main performances contribute positively to the game, the voice acting's overall execution is inconsistent, leaving room for improvement in character development and direction.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening is critically panned, especially on PS5, suffering from major technical issues like inconsistent frame rates, bugs, and poor animations. While some reviewers acknowledge minor enjoyment despite these flaws, the overall sentiment is that both versions feel incomplete and lack redeeming qualities, casting doubt on the game’s market viability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

82%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Unknown 9: Awakening, the opinions of various critics reveal a predominantly negative sentiment, particularly regarding the PlayStation 5 version. While there are few mentions of positive experiences, some reviewers, like Digital Trends, note that while the game has technical issues, they are generally manageable and do not severely impact gameplay. This suggests that, despite the flaws, some players may still find enjoyment in the game. However, no significant positives are highlighted for the PC version, as Gaming Age only mentions glitches and inconsistent performance without any redeeming qualities. The negatives surrounding the PS5 version of Unknown 9: Awakening are overwhelmingly consistent across the board. Critics such as Atomix and Multiplayer.it describe the game as suffering from significant performance issues, including inconsistent frame rates, bugs, and glitches that detract from the overall experience. Eurogamer Germany and Gamer.no echo this sentiment, emphasizing shaky frame rates and frame drops during critical moments like cutscenes and combat. Additionally, issues like poor animation responsiveness and collision detection are raised by God is a Geek and XGN, indicating a lack of polish that affects immersion. On the PC front, Gaming Age's mention of glitches and inconsistent performance further underscores the game's technical shortcomings. Overall, the consensus among critics for both platforms is largely negative, with an emphasis on the game's technical performance as a major hindrance to enjoyment. The PS5 version, in particular, is criticized for its myriad of issues, leading to a perception that the game feels incomplete and in need of significant updates, as noted by TrueGaming. The lack of any substantial positives across both platforms suggests that Unknown 9: Awakening may struggle to find a foothold in the market, especially if these technical issues remain unaddressed. The overwhelming feedback points to a game that, while potentially intriguing in concept, fails to deliver a polished experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening has a few enjoyable elements like brisk pacing and tactical combat, but critics overwhelmingly agree it lacks replay value due to repetitive gameplay, predictable combat, and a linear experience. With no side quests or significant exploration, it's deemed a one-time play that players are unlikely to revisit.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

63%

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

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Unknown 9: Awakening, it is important to first highlight the few positive aspects mentioned. Checkpoint Gaming notes that the game is not overly long and offers a brisk pace with varied locations, which can make each chapter feel valuable and memorable. Additionally, the Step ability and combat mechanics are praised for providing fun tactical options, suggesting that there are moments of enjoyment within the gameplay. Some critics, like God is a Geek, mention the presence of collectibles and skill upgrades, which can add a layer of depth to the experience, even if they are not enough to significantly enhance replayability. However, the negatives overwhelmingly dominate the reviews. The consensus among critics is that Unknown 9: Awakening suffers from a lack of replay value due to its repetitive gameplay and predictable combat mechanics. TheXboxHub and Gamer.no both emphasize the repetitive nature of combat, while Atomix bluntly states that the game is an experience players will quickly forget and not want to revisit. Moreover, Push Square points out the absence of side quests or New Game+ options, which further cements the game's status as a one-time experience. Critics like Softpedia also highlight the linearity of the game, indicating that limited exploration could detract from the overall experience, making it feel less rewarding. Overall, the critics reach a consensus that Unknown 9: Awakening offers limited replay value, primarily due to repetitive gameplay and a lack of meaningful exploration or additional content. While there are some enjoyable mechanics and moments, such as those noted by Checkpoint Gaming and God is a Geek, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game does not provide enough incentive for players to return after their initial playthrough. This lack of engagement and depth, as echoed by multiple reviewers like Oyungezer and Atomix, suggests that the game may not resonate with players in the long term.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

82%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Unknown 9: Awakening reveals a mixed bag of opinions, with some critics highlighting notable positives. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and Digital Trends commend the game for its engaging story, likable characters, and stunning visuals, suggesting that it has the potential to captivate players looking for a unique action-adventure experience. The game is also recognized for its intriguing narrative and ambitious ideas, as noted by Multiplayer.it and Push Square, who appreciate the narrative-driven elements and the promise of an interesting universe. Additionally, some critics like Softpedia mention engaging combat mechanics, which contribute to the enjoyment of the gameplay despite its flaws. Conversely, the criticisms of Unknown 9: Awakening are substantial and prevalent across many reviews. Atomix describes it as a "significant failure," while Gamer.no and Digital Chumps express disappointment in the execution of the combat system and character development, respectively. Many reviewers, including Gameliner and Vandal, point out the game's technical issues and outdated gameplay mechanics, which detract from the overall experience. Critics like Shacknews and TrueGaming also emphasize that the game feels like a missed opportunity, suggesting that it lacks the polish and innovation expected from a title in its genre. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Unknown 9: Awakening has elements worth appreciating, it ultimately falls short of delivering a compelling and polished experience. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and XGN, agree that the game shows potential but is hindered by execution and technical shortcomings. The sentiment leans towards disappointment, with several critics recommending the game only at a discounted price, indicating that it may not be worth the full investment for many players. The mixed reception suggests that while the foundation is there, substantial improvements are needed for future installments to meet the expectations set by its ambitious premise.

TL;DR

Unknown 9: Awakening garners a mixed reception: praised for its engaging story, likable characters, and stunning visuals, but heavily criticized for poor execution, outdated mechanics, and technical issues. While some reviewers see potential in its narrative and combat, many deem it a "significant failure" and recommend waiting for a price drop before investing. Overall, the game showcases ambition but ultimately falls short, leaving critics disappointed and wanting more.

MONSTER

Reviews

92 reviews found

Digital Trends

PlayStation 5

Nov 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some technical hiccups, Unknown 9: Awakening is seen as a fresh and inventive game with memorable characters and engaging gameplay, deserving of attention.

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Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unknown 9: Awakening is praised for its engaging story, likable characters, fun gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. Despite some shortcomings in boss fights and antagonist depth, the game is described as a great experience that may appeal to players looking for a pulpy action-adventure with unique gameplay elements.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unknown 9: Awakening is a decent self-contained adventure with enjoyable combat and exploration, despite being somewhat derivative and not groundbreaking. It offers fun moments but falls short in terms of originality and technical polish.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unknown 9: Awakening is a good debut with rough edges but offers a compelling narrative-driven action-adventure experience. The linear level design and lack of innovative ideas are balanced by interesting lore and engaging stealth mechanics.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Oct 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite its flaws, Unknown 9: Awakening offers a compelling story and engaging exploration, though combat issues detract from the overall experience.

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Metro GameCentral

PlayStation 5

Oct 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A fun and unusual take on the third person stealth game with room for improvement in writing and visuals.

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XGN

PlayStation 5

Oct 31, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Unknown 9: Awakening shows potential with its story and ideas but lacks execution and polish. It is not a bad game, but it misses the finesse of a top-tier title, leaving room for improvement in future installments.

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Softpedia

PlayStation 5

Nov 12, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

While not flawless, Unknown 9: Awakening offers a pleasant surprise with a charming universe and engaging combat, though it feels limited and rough around the edges.

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Oct 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

While Unknown 9: Awakening has interesting elements and a rich backstory, it ultimately falls short of expectations due to gameplay execution and technical issues.

IGN Benelux

PlayStation 5

Nov 1, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game offers a nostalgic single-player experience but falls short due to repetitive gameplay and lackluster platforming. It is somewhat redeemed by its story and strong voice acting.