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Visions of Mana

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

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableAug 29, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperOuka Studios

Overview

For the first time in over 15 years, a brand-new entry in the mainline Mana series arrives! Embark on a new adventure with Val, the newly appointed soul guard, as he sets off on a journey across the world to accompany his friend on her pilgrimage to the Tree of Mana. Experience action-packed gameplay and explore a vibrant semi-open 3D field, encountering fearsome foes and unlikely allies along the way.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana impresses with its emotional depth and character-driven narrative, particularly the bond between protagonists Val and Hinna. Critics praise its exploration of themes like sacrifice and morality, but many find the execution lacking, calling the plot bland and predictable with excessive dialogue that hampers pacing. Despite potential and impactful twists, the story fails to fully engage, leading to a consensus that it’s a missed opportunity for deeper storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Visions of Mana has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its emotional depth and character-driven narrative. Several reviewers, including IGN Italia and Shacknews, highlighted the heartfelt relationship between the protagonists Val and Hinna, which adds a layer of emotional resonance to the journey. Critics like Eurogamer Portugal and Digital Trends noted that the narrative explores significant themes such as sacrifice and morality, engaging players in a way that prompts reflection on these complex issues. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from Cubed3 and Checkpoint Gaming, commend the story for its impactful plot twists and character development, suggesting that while the narrative may follow familiar tropes, it manages to evoke genuine emotions and connections. However, the overall sentiment towards the story is marred by a number of criticisms regarding its execution. Many reviewers, including Gamepressure and Inverse, described the plot as bland and predictable, lacking the depth and character development needed to elevate the narrative. Critics like Push Square and TechRadar Gaming pointed out that the storytelling often feels simplistic and bloated, with excessive dialogue that detracts from the pacing and engagement of the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GamingTrend and PC Gamer, expressed disappointment with the characters' motivations, which they found disconnected from the emotional weight of the narrative, leading to a lack of investment in their journeys. The consensus among critics suggests that while Visions of Mana presents a promising premise with emotional stakes, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling and cohesive narrative. Many reviewers acknowledged the initial intrigue and potential of the story, as noted by IGN Japan and Metro GameCentral, but they also pointed out that the execution often leads to a lack of depth and innovation. Overall, the game appears to resonate with players who appreciate its emotional core and character dynamics, but it struggles to fully realize its narrative potential, leaving many critics feeling that it is a missed opportunity for a more profound storytelling experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana impresses with engaging combat and character customization, earning praise for its strategic depth and class system. However, critics flag significant issues, including repetitive gameplay, AI and camera flaws, and tedious exploration. While it caters to nostalgia seekers, the lack of depth and challenge may leave players craving a more refined experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Visions of Mana has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its engaging combat mechanics and character customization options. Reviewers like Digital Trends and GamesHub highlight the fun and strategic nature of the combat system, which allows players to utilize a variety of classes and elemental dynamics. Critics such as GIGA and PlayStation Universe appreciate the evolving combat that becomes more strategic as players progress, along with the exploration elements that encourage player engagement. The game’s class system, as noted by Gaming Age and Checkpoint Gaming, adds depth to character progression, making it appealing for both veterans of the Mana series and newcomers alike. However, several reviewers point out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall gameplay experience. Critics like GamingTrend and GamesRadar+ mention that the combat can become repetitive and lacks depth, with some describing it as shallow or simplistic. The AI behavior and camera issues are also highlighted as problematic by ZTGD and Hey Poor Player, which can hinder the overall enjoyment of the game. Additionally, some reviewers, including COGconnected and Worth Playing, note that while the exploration is initially enjoyable, it tends to become tedious over time, with side quests often feeling like filler content. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Visions of Mana offers a solid foundation with its engaging combat and character customization, it suffers from a lack of depth and challenge that can lead to a repetitive experience. Critics like Inverse and IGN France acknowledge that although the combat system has its highlights, the overall gameplay feels basic and linear, with some mechanics feeling clunky or unrefined. The game seems to appeal to those looking for a nostalgic action-RPG experience, but the criticisms regarding repetitiveness and shallow mechanics suggest that it may not meet the expectations of players seeking a more complex and challenging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana dazzles with its vibrant graphics and charming art direction, earning rave reviews for its fairy-tale visuals and captivating environments. Critics celebrate its nostalgic appeal and colorful character designs, creating an immersive fantasy world. However, technical flaws like frame rate drops and inconsistent animations mar the experience, leaving room for improvement. Overall, while it shines visually, it struggles with execution, blending charm with notable shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Visions of Mana is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Reviewers from various outlets, including TechRadar Gaming and GameStar, highlighted the game's stunning environments and character designs, noting that the art direction successfully evokes the charm of classic RPGs. Critics like Digital Trends and IGN Japan emphasized the beautiful, fairy-tale-like visuals that contribute to an immersive experience, while GameMAG and Gamer.nl pointed out the rich detail in environments that enhance the fantasy world. The game's colorful palette and whimsical character designs also received acclaim, with many reviewers, such as Cubed3 and Noisy Pixel, appreciating the way these elements create a captivating atmosphere. However, despite the overall praise, several critics noted shortcomings in technical execution and consistency. For instance, SpazioGames mentioned issues with frame rate drops and a lack of technical polish, while Worth Playing pointed out problems with facial animations and occasional jerkiness. CGMagazine and COGconnected echoed these concerns, highlighting that while the environments are visually striking, some aspects, such as dungeon design and character animations, may feel lackluster or inconsistent. This mixed bag of visual quality was also noted by critics like Gaming Age and PC Games, who felt that while the art style is fitting, it does not push the boundaries of visual fidelity. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Visions of Mana excels in its artistic vision and colorful presentation, creating a visually appealing experience that resonates with fans of the series. While there are notable technical issues and inconsistencies, as highlighted by critics like Worth Playing and SpazioGames, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's aesthetic charm and nostalgic qualities. Overall, the game successfully captures the essence of the Mana series, making it a visually delightful experience despite some shortcomings in execution.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana boasts a praised soundtrack with lush compositions that enhance the game's atmosphere, earning accolades for its emotional depth and nostalgic melodies. However, criticism arises over inconsistent voice acting and a lack of standout music tracks, leading to a mixed reception. While the sound design elevates the gaming experience, it falls short of the iconic legacy of previous titles, highlighting a need for improvement in both voice performances and memorable compositions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Visions of Mana have garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers praised the soundtrack for its rich, layered compositions that enhance the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. For instance, But Why Tho? described the music as "breathtakingly beautiful," while CGMagazine highlighted its ability to adapt to different gameplay situations. Critics like Gamer.no and RPGamer noted the nostalgic melodies and whimsical soundscapes crafted by Hiroki Kikuta, emphasizing how the music complements the visuals and evokes the right emotions. Additionally, the voice acting in the English dub was recognized by some, such as Noisy Pixel, as a significant improvement over previous entries, although opinions on the quality varied. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and voice acting. Atomix mentioned that the voice acting suffers from inconsistent direction, a sentiment echoed by Metro GameCentral, who criticized the Americanized and simplistic approach to the voice work. Some critics, like IGN Italia and TechRadar Gaming, felt that the soundtrack lacked standout tracks that would leave a lasting impression, with IGN Japan specifically noting that while the music blends well with gameplay, it does not stand out significantly. Additionally, GameMAG remarked that the music, while pleasant, lacks the iconic themes that fans might expect from the Mana series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Visions of Mana features a high-quality soundtrack that enhances the gaming experience, though it falls short of the memorable heights achieved by earlier titles in the series. While the music is generally praised for its ability to create an immersive atmosphere and evoke nostalgia, the inconsistent quality of the voice acting detracts from the overall experience for some players. Critics like Cubed3 and Jeuxvideo.com affirm that the soundtrack contributes positively, yet many agree that it could benefit from more standout moments. Thus, while the sound design and music are commendable, they leave room for improvement, particularly in the realm of voice performance and memorable compositions.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana features standout voice performances that shine, especially in the English dub, but it’s a mixed bag overall. While critics praise the expressiveness and quality of main characters, highlighted by Juli’s well-received role, many side characters suffer from inconsistent delivery and poor direction. Some performances fall flat, detracting from emotional moments and leading to a disjointed experience. Ultimately, the game showcases potential but fails to provide a consistently immersive auditory experience, leaving critics divided.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The voice acting in Visions of Mana has garnered a range of positive remarks from critics, highlighting a few standout performances and the overall effort in localization. Critics like SomosXbox and Digitally Downloaded praised the voice acting for its expressiveness and quality, especially noting the effectiveness of the English dub in bringing characters to life. IGN Japan specifically highlighted the character Juli, whose performance and original song were particularly well-received. GIGA also commended the professional quality of the voice acting, mentioning the option for both English and Japanese voiceovers, which adds to the game's accessibility and appeal. Overall, there is a consensus among some critics that the main characters deliver strong performances, contributing positively to the narrative experience. Conversely, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the voice acting, particularly concerning the consistency and quality of performances across different characters. Atomix and Eurogamer Germany noted that while some performances were effective, they were often overshadowed by poor direction and pacing issues, especially in the English version. CGMagazine and Gamer.no echoed this sentiment, describing a mix of nuanced performances alongside over-the-top and grating portrayals that detracted from emotional scenes. Additionally, criticisms from MMORPG.com and TechRadar Gaming highlighted specific characters whose voice work was seen as distracting or lacking emotional depth, further emphasizing the inconsistency in quality across the cast. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Visions of Mana is one of mixed feelings. While there are notable strengths in the performances of key characters, many reviewers, including Worth Playing and PCMag, pointed out that the quality varies significantly among side characters and NPCs, leading to a disjointed experience. The game's voice acting is described as a "mixed bag," with some critics appreciating the expressive localization efforts while others lamented the lack of emotional depth and coherence in delivery. This duality suggests that while the game has the potential for engaging voice work, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently immersive auditory experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Visions of Mana" boasts solid performance across platforms, with Xbox Series X achieving stable 60fps but facing framerate dips, PS5 praised for smooth gameplay yet riddled with crashes and glitches, and PC receiving mixed reviews due to bugs and limited graphics options. Despite technical inconsistencies, critics agree the core gameplay is still enjoyable.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

12%

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

In analyzing the technical performance of "Visions of Mana" across various gaming platforms, it is evident that there are notable positives for each. On the Xbox Series X, both SomosXbox and TheXboxHub highlight the game’s performance in 60fps mode, with SomosXbox noting that while the technical ceiling could be higher, the overall performance remains manageable. On the PlayStation 5, there is a mixed but generally positive reception, with critics like Digital Trends and Hey Poor Player praising the game for its smooth gameplay and short load times. GIGA also notes that the game runs smoothly with stable performance in Performance Mode, despite minor cutscene stutters. Meanwhile, on PC, opinions vary, but critics like Hobby Consolas commend the technical performance as exceptional, emphasizing fluid gameplay and detailed graphics, while Impulsegamer mentions significant improvements since the demo phase. However, the negatives across platforms cannot be overlooked. On Xbox Series X, both SomosXbox and TheXboxHub mention intermittent framerate issues during busy scenes, suggesting that the performance could be more consistent. The PlayStation 5 experience is marred by a variety of technical issues, with critics like Eurogamer Germany and Wccftech reporting frame rate drops, crashes, and glitches that disrupt gameplay. Checkpoint Gaming points out problems with subtitle readability, while SpazioGames mentions that even in Performance Mode, frame rate drops occur. On PC, the situation is similarly mixed; while some critics report smooth performance, others like IGN Deutschland criticize the port for technical shortcomings, including limited graphics settings and bugs that detract from the experience. Additionally, RPG Site notes issues with framerate drops during busy battles. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while "Visions of Mana" has its strengths across all platforms, the technical performance is inconsistent. The Xbox Series X version is generally stable but has room for improvement, while the PlayStation 5 version is plagued by a range of issues that can frustrate players, as highlighted by IGN Japan and Wccftech. The PC version shows a more polarized reception, with some praising its performance while others point out significant shortcomings, particularly in the graphics department. Despite these criticisms, many reviewers acknowledge that the core gameplay experience remains enjoyable, implying that the technical issues, while present, do not entirely overshadow the game's merits.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Visions of Mana boasts extensive character customization, diverse combat strategies, and a New Game Plus mode that entice replayability. However, critics lament its repetitive gameplay and uninspired side quests, which undermine the overall experience. While completionists may enjoy the content, many players might find the lack of engaging post-game and linear storytelling a deterrent for multiple playthroughs.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Visions of Mana showcases a mix of positive aspects highlighted by various critics. Many reviewers, such as GamersRD and GIGA, emphasize the extensive character customization options and diverse combat strategies available, which encourage players to experiment with different builds and party compositions. Critics like Hey Poor Player and IGN Italia point out the inclusion of a New Game Plus mode and multiple difficulty levels, which provide ample reasons for players to revisit the game after completing the main story. Additionally, the exploration elements and side quests, as mentioned by Digitally Downloaded and Eurogamer Germany, enhance the world-building and can motivate players to dive back into the game. However, several critics express concerns about the game's replay value being hampered by repetitive gameplay and lackluster side quests. Atomix and MeuPlayStation note that the linear progression and repetitive nature of side missions can diminish the overall experience, making it less appealing for multiple playthroughs. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Worth Playing highlight that the straightforward narrative and limited post-game content may not provide enough incentive for players to return after their initial experience. This sentiment is echoed by GameMAG and GamesRadar+, who mention that while replayability is hinted at, it is not deeply explored, leading to a somewhat limited engagement. In summary, the consensus among critics indicates that while Visions of Mana offers several features that could enhance its replay value, such as character customization and a New Game Plus mode, the overall experience is marred by repetitiveness and a lack of engaging side content. Reviewers like Cubed3 and Gamer.no acknowledge the substantial amount of content available, yet many also caution that the repetitive nature of quests and linear storytelling may deter players from pursuing additional playthroughs. Ultimately, the game appears to cater more to completionists and fans of the genre, while others may find its replay value lacking.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Visions of Mana is marked by a blend of appreciation for its aesthetic qualities and gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Portugal and Jeuxvideo.com, commend the game for its beautiful graphics and engaging combat systems, highlighting its nostalgic elements that resonate with long-time fans of the series. Critics like Shacknews and Digital Trends note the enjoyable combat and character development, which contribute to a fun gaming experience. The game is often described as a solid entry in the Mana franchise, with several reviewers, including Player 2 and Impulsegamer, emphasizing its potential to appeal to both veterans and newcomers alike. The vibrant world and captivating soundtrack are also frequently mentioned as strong points, with many critics recognizing the game’s ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while introducing modern gameplay elements. Conversely, Visions of Mana faces significant criticism regarding its narrative depth and character development. Reviewers like Inverse and MMORPG.com point out that the story is dull and lacks the necessary engagement to elevate the overall experience. Many critics, including GamesRadar+ and MeuPlayStation, express disappointment in the game's execution, citing issues such as pacing, predictability, and technical performance. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Wccftech mention that while the combat mechanics are enjoyable, the game suffers from a lack of replay value and narrative consistency. The absence of compelling storytelling and character arcs is a recurring theme, with multiple reviewers indicating that these shortcomings detract from what could have been a standout title. The consensus among critics is that Visions of Mana is a mixed bag, offering both enjoyable gameplay and visual appeal while falling short in narrative execution. While some reviewers, like Cubed3 and Gamer.nl, find merit in its nostalgic approach and engaging mechanics, others, such as GamesRadar+ and ZTGD, emphasize the need for improvement in storytelling and character development. Ultimately, Visions of Mana is seen as a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre, but it may not leave a lasting impact or attract new players due to its adherence to traditional themes and gameplay. The game is characterized as a safe yet unremarkable entry in the series, suggesting that while it meets fan expectations, it lacks the innovation needed to truly stand out in the crowded RPG landscape.

TL;DR

Visions of Mana dazzles with stunning graphics and engaging gameplay, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers. Critics praise its nostalgic charm and fun combat but slam its lackluster narrative and character development, calling it predictable and dull. While the game offers a solid experience for genre enthusiasts, its shortcomings prevent it from making a lasting impact, marking it as a safe but unremarkable entry in the Mana series.

MONSTER

Reviews

136 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Aug 29, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a modern take on the Mana series, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience with engaging story, deep gameplay, and vibrant visuals. Highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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Player 2

PlayStation 5

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions Of Mana impresses with its warm heart and modern action-RPG elements, setting a strong foundation for the Mana franchise's return.

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Gamer.no

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a nostalgic and engaging experience that successfully captures the essence of the Mana series, providing a delightful adventure.

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Sep 9, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a heartfelt revival of the Seiken Densetsu series, filled with charm and nostalgia, making it a memorable adventure for JRPG fans.

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RPGamer

PlayStation 5

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is described as a strong entry that revitalizes the series lore effectively, captivating both long-time fans and newcomers with its presentation and emotive story.

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Shacknews

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a refined RPG with compelling characters, an engaging story, and challenging combat, despite minor shortcomings that do not detract from the overall enjoyment.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions of Mana successfully captures the essence of the Mana series while introducing new gameplay elements and a captivating story. Despite some issues with world layout and combat mechanics, the game excels in providing a visually appealing experience with deep customization options and engaging combat. Fans of the series and newcomers alike will find enjoyment in this title.

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Atomix

PlayStation 5

Aug 29, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a worthy return for the series, combining engaging gameplay, beautiful visuals, and a strong soundtrack, despite some flaws in story pacing and technical execution.

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RPG Fan

PlayStation 5

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions of Mana is a delightful return to form for the Mana series, offering a magical and engaging experience that captures the essence of classic Japanese RPGs.

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Hobby Consolas

Aug 27, 2024

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

Visions of Mana es un gran juego de rol que, aunque no arriesga con nuevas ideas, ofrece una experiencia sólida y divertida con un gran sistema de combate y un diseño visual impresionante.

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