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Watch Dogs: Legion

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Watch Dogs: Legion
Item: Watch Dogs: Legion
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Crime, Open World, RPG, Drama, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 29, 2020

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

DeveloperUbisoft

Overview

In Watch Dogs: Legion, near future London is facing its downfall... Unless you do something about it. Build a resistance, fight back, and give the city back to the people. It's time to rise up.

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

30%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Watch Dogs: Legion received praise from some critics for its politically explicit themes and focus on societal issues. AusGamers appreciated the darker and bluntly violent narrative that tackled themes of criminals, terrorism, greed, and fascist policies, while VGC found the story enjoyable with impressive scenes and highlighted the game's sandbox nature for creating unique stories. TheXboxHub commended the great writing, dialogues, and mission structures that created a socially complex world without taking itself too seriously. Additionally, Game Informer and Game Rant praised the gratifying main story missions, creative tasks, and despicable villains, which added depth to the narrative. On the flip side, several critics pointed out the shortcomings of the story in Watch Dogs: Legion. Many reviewers criticized the lack of a central protagonist, leading to a disconnect and lack of emotional investment in the narrative. Push Square and Slant Magazine highlighted the poor dialogue, lack of depth, and unremarkable nature of the storyline, while Worth Playing and PCGamesN criticized the toothless narrative that failed to explore dystopian themes effectively. Critics like Shacknews and Easy Allies mentioned that the story lacked emotional swings and suffered from player-created characters overshadowing villain arcs, impacting the overall engagement with the plot. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story of Watch Dogs: Legion is mixed. While some appreciated the game's political themes, creative tasks, and sandbox nature, others found the lack of a central protagonist, poor dialogue, and formulaic storyline to be major drawbacks. The game's attempt to blend societal issues with a near-future London setting received both praise and criticism, with some reviewers feeling that the narrative lacked depth and impactful character interactions. Despite the varied opinions on the story, it seems that the game's unique gameplay mechanics and thematic exploration managed to resonate with some critics, while others felt it fell short in delivering a truly compelling and emotionally engaging narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Watch Dogs: Legion's story impressed some critics for its bold political themes and gritty narrative tackling societal issues like crime and fascism. Critics praised the writing and missions for creating a socially complex world, but others criticized the lack of a central protagonist and emotional depth, feeling that player-created characters overshadowed the plot. Overall, opinions on the story are mixed, with some enjoying the thematic exploration while others found it lacking in emotional impact and depth.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

50%

Mixed (50-79)

45%

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Watch Dogs: Legion has received praise for its innovative 'Play As Anyone' mechanic, which allows players to recruit and play as a wide variety of characters with unique abilities and traits. Critics like USgamer and Game Rant appreciate the diverse character options and the strategic depth it adds to missions. The sandbox nature of the gameplay, empowering abilities, and variety of approaches have been highlighted positively by PCGamesN and CGMagazine. The ability to recruit activists and control different characters with unique abilities, as mentioned by The Games Machine and AusGamers, adds a layer of depth to the open-world experience. On the downside, several critics have pointed out issues with the gameplay of Watch Dogs: Legion. Push Square and Slant Magazine criticize the lack of variety, repetitive missions, and unsatisfying combat system. Pure Xbox and Cubed3 mention the repetitive and unrefined core gameplay, lackluster combat, and uninspired mission variety as drawbacks. Metro GameCentral and GameCritics highlight the derivative and repetitive gameplay mechanics, with simplistic stealth, one-note combat, and characters lacking proper story arcs or personalities. The disposable nature of characters, as mentioned by Telegraph, can also feel artificial and detract from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of Watch Dogs: Legion is mixed. While the 'Play As Anyone' mechanic and the ability to recruit and play as various characters with unique abilities are praised for adding depth and strategic options to missions, the game is criticized for its repetitive missions, lackluster combat, and character development issues. The innovative ideas introduced in the gameplay, such as the recruitment system and diverse character options, are appreciated, but the execution falls short in terms of mission variety and overall engagement. Players looking for a diverse range of characters and strategic gameplay options may find enjoyment in Watch Dogs: Legion, but those seeking a more refined and varied gameplay experience may be left wanting more.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Watch Dogs: Legion impresses with its 'Play As Anyone' feature, allowing diverse character recruitment for strategic gameplay, as praised by critics. However, repetitive missions, lackluster combat, and character development issues are noted drawbacks. While innovative ideas add depth, execution falls short in mission variety and engagement. Players seeking strategic options may enjoy it, but those wanting more refined gameplay might be disappointed.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of critics praised the graphics and visual design of Watch Dogs: Legion, highlighting various positive aspects. PlayStation LifeStyle commended the stunning visuals of the London environment on the PS5, emphasizing enhanced lighting, reflections, and textures. Push Square also lauded the game for looking better and more life-like on the PS5 compared to the PS4, with noticeable improvements in lighting, character models, and environments. AusGamers appreciated the real-time ray-tracing for reflections on the PC version, adding depth and detail to the impressive digital location of London. Additionally, Game Informer mentioned the beautiful high-tech take on London, with smart level design and the use of gadgets like drones enhancing the visual appeal. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain negatives regarding the graphics and visual design of Watch Dogs: Legion. PlayStation LifeStyle noted stiff character animations and a lower framerate affecting the overall visual experience. Cultured Vultures mentioned compressed areas and clunky driving mechanics on the PS4 version. Slant Magazine criticized the limited variation in character appearances and the lack of unique renderings, which they found to be the most distinctive but in a negative way. PCMag highlighted that while the depiction of London was detailed and immersive on PC, the character models lacked detail. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards the positive side regarding the graphics and visual design of Watch Dogs: Legion. The game was widely praised for its stunning recreation of London, attention to detail, and immersive atmosphere across various platforms. Critics like Trusted Reviews and God is a Geek appreciated the game's faithful recreation of iconic landmarks and the essence of the city. Despite some minor criticisms such as stiff animations and lack of character detail, the majority of reviewers found the graphics to be visually appealing and fitting for the game's tone. The overall sentiment suggests that Watch Dogs: Legion successfully captures the essence of a near-future London, offering a visually striking and immersive experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics raved about Watch Dogs: Legion's impressive graphics, with praise for the stunning London environment on PS5 and real-time ray-tracing on PC. While some noted flaws like stiff animations and lack of character detail, the majority praised the faithful recreation of London's landmarks and immersive atmosphere, making it a visually appealing and immersive experience overall.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

78%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of positives, several critics praised the authentic portrayal of London in Watch Dogs: Legion's sound design and music. JeuxActu highlighted the detailed depiction of London with authentic accents, iconic landmarks, and music genres that capture the essence of British culture. Xbox Achievements also commended the exciting and dramatic soundtrack, featuring a variety of radio shows and music genres that enhance the open-world exploration experience. Additionally, Game Rant noted the diverse and well-done voice work for characters, particularly praising the standout character Bagley, the rogue A.I., for adding humor and depth to the game. On the negative side, criticisms were directed towards the voice acting and dialogue inconsistencies in Watch Dogs: Legion. Cultured Vultures and Push Square both criticized the sketchy and repetitive voice acting, with characters and NPCs often sounding similar, detracting from immersion. Push Square further mentioned the awful script and poor dialogue, with atrocious conversations and lip-sync issues that hindered the potential of the script. God is a Geek also pointed out instances of forced delivery and excessive swearing in the voice acting, which could be off-putting for some players. Overall, the opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of Watch Dogs: Legion are mixed. While some critics appreciated the efforts to create an authentic and immersive audio experience, such as capturing the essence of British culture and featuring a variety of voices and accents, others found shortcomings in the voice acting quality, dialogue inconsistencies, and lack of variety in sound design elements. Despite the diverse opinions, it seems that the game's sound design and music were not universally praised, with some critics finding room for improvement in certain aspects. Critics like Trusted Reviews and Metro GameCentral highlighted specific strengths and weaknesses, showcasing the varied perspectives on the audio aspects of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Watch Dogs: Legion received praise for its authentic portrayal of London through sound design and music, capturing British culture with detailed accents and iconic landmarks. Critics loved the exciting soundtrack but criticized voice acting inconsistencies and repetitive dialogue, with some finding it immersion-breaking. Overall, opinions on the game's audio were mixed, with some appreciating its authenticity while others pointed out flaws like repetitive voice acting and poor dialogue.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

69%

Negative (0-49)

19%

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

The voice acting in Watch Dogs: Legion received mixed reviews from critics. Some positive aspects highlighted by reviewers include the diverse roster of playable characters with distinct voices, accents, and mannerisms, as noted by PCMag. Bagley, the AI assistant, stood out as a humorous and emotional asset with a standout voice performance, according to Game Rant. Additionally, AusGamers appreciated the fully voiced AI citizens, which added to the sense of individuality and immersion in the game. These elements contributed positively to the overall experience for some critics. On the other hand, the negative aspects of the voice acting in Watch Dogs: Legion were emphasized by several reviewers. Cultured Vultures, Daily Star, and GamesRadar++ criticized the voice acting for being sketchy, repetitive, and inconsistent, with characters often sounding similar or having mismatched visuals and scripts. Metro GameCentral mentioned that the lack of compelling characters affected the overall quality of voice acting, while XGN and Gaming Age described the accent performances as terrible and not good, respectively. Softpedia went as far as to label the voice acting as poor, indicating a significant flaw in the game's presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the negative side when it comes to the voice acting in Watch Dogs: Legion. While there were some positive mentions of standout performances and diverse character voices, the prevailing sentiment highlighted issues such as wooden delivery, mismatched voices and visuals, lack of compelling characters, and inconsistent performances. Critics like Push Square, Digital Spy, and GameStar pointed out specific problems with conversations, mismatched faces, and lack of chemistry between characters, which detracted from the overall immersion and realism of the game. The general impression is that the voice acting in Watch Dogs: Legion did not meet the expectations of many reviewers, with several critiques focusing on the lack of depth, immersion, and quality in the portrayal of characters through voice performances.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics had mixed feelings about the voice acting in Watch Dogs: Legion. Positive aspects included diverse character voices and the AI assistant, Bagley. However, negative reviews criticized the voice acting for being sketchy, repetitive, and inconsistent, with some calling it poor and lacking depth. Overall, the consensus leans towards the negative side, with issues like wooden delivery, mismatched voices and visuals, and lack of compelling characters overshadowing the positives.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

10%

Mixed (50-79)

71%

Negative (0-49)

19%

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

In terms of the technical performance on different gaming platforms, some positives were highlighted by the critics. PlayStation 5 received praise from critics like PlayStation Universe for improved loading times and a steadier framerate. Pure Xbox noted significant improvements in loading times and bugs with the next-gen upgrade on Xbox Series X, providing a smoother gameplay experience. PC was also commended for running smoothly with occasional stuttering, as mentioned by CGMagazine. On the flip side, several negatives were pointed out by the reviewers regarding technical performance. PlayStation LifeStyle mentioned frequent loading screens and lower framerates affecting character animations on PS5. Critics like Digital Spy and TrueAchievements highlighted rampant bugs, crashes, and stability issues on Xbox One, impacting the overall experience. PC faced issues such as inconsistent frame rates, crashes, and performance problems, with Screen Rant mentioning flaws hindering the game's potential due to rushed production and mechanics not functioning as intended. Overall, the consensus among the critics indicates a mixed bag of technical performance for Watch Dogs: Legion across different platforms. While some platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X showed improvements in loading times and smoother gameplay, issues such as bugs, crashes, and stability problems plagued the experience on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Critics like Trusted Reviews and IGN emphasized the need for patches to improve stability, while others like Cultured Vultures and Game Informer noted specific technical issues affecting gameplay. Despite some positive aspects, the technical performance of the game as a whole seems to have fallen short of expectations, with various platforms facing their own unique challenges and drawbacks.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praised PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X for improved loading times and smoother gameplay in Watch Dogs: Legion, but pointed out issues like bugs, crashes, and stability problems on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. Overall, technical performance was a mixed bag across platforms, with some positives overshadowed by significant drawbacks and the need for patches to enhance stability.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

40%

Mixed (50-79)

53%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Watch Dogs: Legion showcase a mix of positives and negatives. Several critics, such as GameSkinny and TheXboxHub, highlight the game's high replay value due to the ability to play as a wide range of characters, each with unique skills and backstories. IGN also praises the recruitment mechanic for adding depth and replay value by allowing players to recruit characters related to their recruits, enhancing the world's richness. Additionally, PCMag notes that the variety of activities, missions, and upgrades, along with the recruitment system, offer significant replay value. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the limitations impacting the game's replayability. PlayStation LifeStyle and Push Square mention that the 'play as anyone' feature lacks depth and fails to provide meaningful reasons to switch between characters, reducing the overall replay value. Cultured Vultures and Trusted Reviews criticize the lack of character development and narrative integration, weakening the game's replay value. GameCritics and VG247 point out issues with challenge and mission design options, as well as repetitive missions, which may hinder long-term replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards acknowledging the game's potential for replay value but also recognizing its shortcomings. While aspects like the 'play as anyone' mechanic, recruitment system, and variety of playable characters contribute to the game's replayability, issues such as lack of depth in character interactions, repetitive missions, and limited character differentiation dampen the overall experience. Critics like Daily Star and Game Over Online appreciate the game's vast open world and intricate systems but suggest that improvements in mission variety and character depth could enhance the replay value further. Ultimately, the game's replay value seems to vary depending on individual preferences for exploration, character diversity, and mission design.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of Watch Dogs: Legion. Some praise its diverse characters and recruitment mechanic for enhancing replayability, while others criticize the lack of depth in character interactions and repetitive missions. While the game offers potential for replay value with its open world and unique systems, improvements in mission variety and character development could elevate the experience. Ultimately, individual preferences will determine the game's replay value.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

49%

Mixed (50-79)

50%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of positives, several critics highlighted the innovative gameplay mechanics of Watch Dogs: Legion. Critics like GamingBolt and GameStar praised the 'Play as Anyone' mechanic, which allows players to recruit and play as any character in the game, adding depth and variety to the gameplay experience. Additionally, PlayStation Universe and VGC appreciated the game's detailed open world and the compelling narrative that revolves around the political themes of the game. Game Informer also commended the fantastic mission design and strong narrative, describing the game as a ton of fun to play. On the negative side, critics pointed out various shortcomings in Watch Dogs: Legion. Reviewers such as We Got This Covered and Game Over Online criticized the lack of emotional depth and cohesion in the game, with the former describing it as a massive step backward for the series. Technical issues and lack of polish were common complaints, as mentioned by TrueAchievements and God is a Geek, who highlighted inconsistent voice acting and bugs detracting from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, critics like VG247 and Game Debate noted repetitive missions, underwhelming tech, and a lackluster story as drawbacks that hindered the overall experience for players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding Watch Dogs: Legion is mixed. While the game introduces innovative gameplay mechanics and a compelling narrative, it falls short in terms of execution and technical issues. Critics like Push Square and Metro GameCentral expressed disappointment in the game's failure to deliver a meaningful critique of politics and capitalism, with the latter describing the experience as competent but unengaging. However, there were positive remarks from critics such as Xbox Tavern and VGC, who praised the game for its unique 'Play as Anyone' mechanic and engaging story, recommending it as a must-play title. Ultimately, Watch Dogs: Legion seems to have divided opinions among critics, with some appreciating its strengths in gameplay and narrative, while others highlighting its shortcomings in technical performance and storytelling.

TL;DR

Critics praised Watch Dogs: Legion for its innovative 'Play as Anyone' mechanic, detailed open world, and compelling narrative. However, they criticized its lack of emotional depth, technical issues, repetitive missions, and underwhelming story. The game's mixed reviews highlight its strengths in gameplay and narrative, but also its shortcomings in execution and technical performance.

MONSTER

Reviews

245 reviews found

100

VGC

PlayStation 4

Oct 28, 2020

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

Watch Dogs: Legion is Ubisoft's most unique and meaningful sandbox game in years. The 'Play as Anyone' mechanic is compelling and well balanced. The game's standout campaign sequences and beautifully recreated London add to its appeal.

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Game Informer

Xbox One

Oct 28, 2020

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

The review describes Watch Dogs: Legion as a largely entertaining and cohesive package that realizes the hacker fantasy. It praises the fun team-building, fantastic mission design, strong narrative, and the gorgeous world. The game is described as a ton of fun.

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GamingBolt

Xbox One

Oct 31, 2020

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

Watch Dogs: Legion is praised for its 'play as anyone' mechanic, engaging gameplay, and reactive world. Despite technical issues and a lackluster story, it is considered the best game in the series and highly engaging.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Nov 10, 2020

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

The reviewer considers Watch Dogs: Legion a brilliant third installment in the franchise. They praise the ability to play as anyone and the engaging story. They recommend it as a must-play game.

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GameStar

Oct 28, 2020

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

Watch Dogs Legion is a game with intriguing story elements and innovative gameplay ideas. However, the lack of depth in character personalities and chemistry hinders the overall experience.

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God is a Geek

Oct 28, 2020

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

Watch Dogs: Legion offers a fantastic recruitment system, detailed open world, and a fun gameplay experience despite some technical issues and inconsistent voice acting. It's a game with heart and plenty of content to enjoy.

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GameCrate

Nov 2, 2020

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

Watch Dogs: Legion is praised for its unique recruitment mechanic, political themes, and sandbox gameplay. While it may not appeal to everyone, it offers a compelling experience for players willing to invest time and dedication.

Softpedia

Nov 2, 2020

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

Despite its shortcomings, Watch Dogs Legion is a good game with potential for the future of the series.

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Player 2

Xbox One

Nov 2, 2020

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

The game has a cool concept but doesn't fully flesh it out. It is still worth playing, but it never reaches its full potential.

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Easy Allies

Nov 3, 2020

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

Watch Dogs: Legion is praised for its gameplay mechanics, allowing players to recruit and switch between characters, and its futuristic visual design. However, the story suffers from disconnected characters and some mismatched voice acting. The game's technical performance is solid, but there are some glitches. The replayability is decent, but lacks variety in mission types and voice actors. Overall, the game receives a score of 8.0 out of 10.