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What Remains of Edith Finch

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of What Remains of Edith Finch
Item: What Remains of Edith Finch
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresAdventure, Indie, Puzzle and Logic, Drama, Mystery, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 24, 2017

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperGiant Sparrow

Overview

What Remains of Edith Finch is a collection of short stories about a cursed family in Washington State. Each story offers a chance to experience the life of a different family member with stories ranging from the early 1900s to the present day. The gameplay and tone of the stories are as varied as the family members themselves. The only constants are that each is played from a first-person perspective and that each story ends with that family member's death. It's a game about what it feels like to be humbled and astonished by the vast and unknowable world around us. You'll follow Edith Finch as she explores the history of her family and tries to figure out why she's the last Finch left alive.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch is hailed as a storytelling masterpiece, showcasing the emotional journey of the Finch family through Edith's eyes. Critics praise its creative narrative and poignant exploration of love, loss, and acceptance, delivering strong emotional impacts. However, some raise concerns about the narrative's resolution and depth, feeling it falls short of fully satisfying its profound themes. Despite these critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, cementing the game’s status as a modern classic in video game storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The narrative of What Remains of Edith Finch has garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, many of whom describe it as a masterpiece in storytelling. Critics such as Time and DualShockers highlight the game's emotional depth, emphasizing how it explores the tragic history of the Finch family through Edith's perspective. The anthology of stories, each representing the final moments of deceased family members, is noted for its creativity and emotional resonance. Critics like CGMagazine and Hardcore Gamer commend the unique storytelling approach, which effectively immerses players in the family's history, creating a poignant experience that balances themes of love, loss, and acceptance. The game's ability to evoke strong emotional responses is frequently mentioned, with several reviewers, including The Jimquisition and Gamer.nl, praising its capacity to blend tragedy with moments of beauty and reflection. Despite the overwhelming acclaim, some critics express reservations regarding the narrative's execution. For instance, New Game Network and EGM point out that while the game attempts to tackle profound themes surrounding death and family, it ultimately falls short in providing a satisfying resolution. This sentiment is echoed by Game Revolution, which notes that the conclusion may leave players desiring more clarity. Additionally, some critics, like Gamer.nl and The Games Machine, argue that while the individual stories are enjoyable, the overarching narrative lacks a certain depth that could elevate the overall impact. Overall, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards admiration for What Remains of Edith Finch, with many considering it a significant achievement in video game storytelling. While a few voices raise concerns about the depth and resolution of the narrative, the majority, including outlets like IBTimes UK and Push Square, celebrate its emotional weight and innovative storytelling techniques. The game's exploration of familial connections, memory, and mortality resonates deeply with players, making it a standout title in the genre. The critics' collective enthusiasm suggests that despite its minor shortcomings, the narrative's ability to engage and provoke thought solidifies its status as a modern classic.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch is celebrated for its innovative storytelling and emotional depth, immersing players in the poignant lives of its characters through unique gameplay vignettes. Critics praise its fresh narrative approach but criticize its minimalistic design and linearity, noting a lack of complex interactions and control issues. Overall, it's a powerful narrative experience that prioritizes storytelling, appealing to those seeking an emotional journey over traditional gaming challenges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of What Remains of Edith Finch has garnered praise for its innovative approach to storytelling and exploration. Critics like IGN and GameStar highlight how the game offers a variety of unique mechanics and perspectives, allowing players to engage deeply with the narratives of each family member. The interactive vignettes, as noted by Digital Chumps and Hardcore Gamer, provide fresh experiences that shift in style and gameplay, enhancing the emotional impact of the story. Many reviewers, including Metro GameCentral and Nintendo Insider, appreciate the game's ability to immerse players in the final moments of the characters' lives, making the exploration of the Finch house a meaningful journey through memory and loss. However, the gameplay has also faced criticism for its minimalistic design and linearity. Reviewers such as Slant Magazine and PlayStation Universe point out that the mechanics are intentionally simplistic, often lacking traditional gameplay elements like puzzles or significant challenges. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Vandal mention that while the exploration is engaging, it can feel constrained, with limited interactivity that may not satisfy players looking for a more dynamic gaming experience. Additionally, some reviewers noted issues with controls, particularly on different platforms, which can detract from immersion and fluidity in gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch is a unique narrative experience that prioritizes storytelling over traditional gameplay mechanics. While some players may find the lack of complex interactions disappointing, many agree that the game's strength lies in its ability to convey deep emotional narratives through simple yet effective gameplay. Critics like Easy Allies and The Games Machine emphasize that the game successfully innovates within the walking simulator genre, providing a fresh take that resonates with players seeking a profound and engaging storytelling experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch dazzles with its stunning graphics and immersive visual design, praised for intricate detail that brings the Finch house to life as a character. Critics hail its blend of artistic styles that enhance storytelling, creating a captivating atmosphere. However, minor technical flaws like frame rate drops and inconsistent character models have been noted, but they don’t overshadow the game's remarkable aesthetic. Overall, it stands out as a masterclass in visual storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

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 What Remains of Edith Finch have been widely praised by critics, who highlight the game's meticulous attention to detail and the immersive atmosphere created by its environments. Reviewers from outlets like The Digital Fix and PC Games commend the well-crafted visual design that not only enhances storytelling but also imbues the Finch house with a character of its own. Many critics, including Gamer.nl and PSNStores, emphasize the rich details found within the Finch residence, where each room reflects the personality of a family member, contributing to a sense of a lived-in space. The game’s ability to blend various artistic styles for different family stories, as noted by COGconnected and Slant Magazine, further elevates the visual experience, making it both charming and atmospheric. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation. For instance, DarkStation mentioned technical issues such as frame rate drops in specific settings, which could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, Worth Playing noted that while the art design is top-notch, some character models appeared weak in comparison to the beautifully rendered environments. NintendoWorldReport also highlighted texture loading problems in the PS4 version, suggesting that technical inconsistencies could impact players' immersion. These critiques indicate that while the visual design is largely successful, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a captivating and immersive experience. The majority of reviewers, including IGN and GameSpot, agree that the game’s visuals significantly enhance its narrative, with the Finch house serving as a vital character in the story. Critics like Push Square and Gameblog.fr emphasized the strong sense of place and the creative integration of narrative elements into the environment, further solidifying the game's status as a visually impressive title. While minor technical issues were noted, they did not overshadow the game's overall aesthetic achievements, making it clear that What Remains of Edith Finch is a standout example of visual storytelling in video games.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The sound design and music of What Remains of Edith Finch are widely praised for their emotional depth and atmospheric quality, enhancing the game's narrative. Composer Jeff Russo's subtle yet powerful soundtrack and strong voice acting contribute significantly to the immersive experience. While some critics note the music's lack of memorability, the overall consensus is that it effectively complements the storytelling, making it a vital element of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

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 What Remains of Edith Finch have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the emotional depth and atmospheric quality of the audio experience. The soundtrack, composed by Jeff Russo, is frequently described as subtle yet powerful, effectively enhancing the game's narrative. For instance, Atomix notes that the music is "subtle yet impactful," while Eurogamer Italy emphasizes its ability to complement the game's emotional tone. Many reviewers, including Digital Chumps and GameSpot, praise the orchestral elements that heighten emotional moments, with Digital Chumps specifically mentioning how sound enhances immersion during key gameplay sequences. The voice acting also receives high marks, with critics like Forbes and Gamer.no acknowledging its professionalism and ability to convey emotion, further enriching the storytelling experience. Despite the overall praise, there are some criticisms regarding the music's memorability and impact. DarkStation points out that while the music selections fit the stories, none particularly stand out, suggesting a lack of distinctive tracks that could leave a lasting impression. Similarly, Riot Pixels mentions that although the music is beautiful, it could have been more impactful in enhancing emotional moments. This sentiment is echoed by a few other critics who feel that while the sound design is commendable, there are instances where it could have been more pronounced to elevate the emotional stakes of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that the sound design and music significantly contribute to the game's immersive quality and emotional resonance. The integration of music into the gameplay and narrative, as highlighted by critics like Guardian and Push Square, enhances the storytelling, making it a vital aspect of the player's experience. While some reviewers express minor concerns about the memorability of certain tracks, the general sentiment is that What Remains of Edith Finch excels in creating a poignant audio landscape that complements its rich narrative tapestry.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in What Remains of Edith Finch is widely praised for its emotional depth and quality, significantly enhancing the game's storytelling and player connection. Valerie Rose Lohman's narration as Edith stands out, but minor inconsistencies in the supporting cast and English-only dialogue are noted as drawbacks. Overall, the voice performances are deemed essential to the game's immersive experience, solidifying their role as a highlight.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in What Remains of Edith Finch has been overwhelmingly praised by critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including COGconnected and Eurogamer Italy, noted that the performances are excellently delivered and of high quality, significantly enhancing the overall experience of the game. Critics like Forbes and PlaySense highlighted the emotional depth and care present in the voice acting, which adds layers to the storytelling. The narration by Edith, performed by Valerie Rose Lohman, received particular acclaim for its emotional resonance, with PlayStation Universe describing her performance as exceptional and capturing the character's youth and apprehension. Overall, the voice acting has been characterized as engaging, immersive, and integral to the narrative, with multiple critics emphasizing its role in deepening the player's connection to the characters and their stories. Despite the general acclaim, a few critics pointed out some inconsistencies in the voice acting. The Jimquisition mentioned that while the voice acting is mostly effective, it does have minor drawbacks that could detract from the experience. This sentiment was echoed by some other reviewers who noted that while the performances were strong, the overall quality varied slightly among the supporting cast. Additionally, IGN Spain raised a concern regarding the exclusivity of the English dialogue, which might pose challenges for non-English speaking players, potentially limiting accessibility to the narrative for a broader audience. In summary, the consensus among critics is largely positive, with the majority highlighting the voice acting as a standout feature of What Remains of Edith Finch. The performances are described as emotionally charged and well-integrated into the narrative, contributing significantly to the game's immersive experience. Critics like Twinfinite and Wccftech reinforced this sentiment, noting that the voice acting enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of the game. While a few minor criticisms exist, they do not overshadow the overall appreciation for the quality of voice work, making it a key element in the game's success.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch shines with immersive storytelling across platforms, though it faces performance hiccups. PS4 shows smooth gameplay but suffers from framerate dips and texture issues. Xbox One runs at a stable 30 FPS but has minor glitches. The Nintendo Switch has loading problems, while PC offers a seamless experience. Despite these technical flaws, the narrative strength outweighs the shortcomings, making it a compelling play for gamers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of What Remains of Edith Finch across various gaming platforms, there are notable positives to highlight. On the PlayStation 4, several critics, including Eurogamer Italy and The Digital Fix, noted that the game generally runs smoothly, allowing players to immerse themselves in the narrative without significant distractions. Critics like New Game Network and IGN Spain echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while minor performance issues exist, they do not significantly detract from the overall experience. On Xbox One, Generación Xbox praised the game for running smoothly at 30 FPS without drops, indicating excellent optimization. Similarly, Gamer.nl on PC reported a seamless experience with logical controls and no bugs encountered, showcasing the game's overall solid performance on this platform. However, there are also several negatives that critics pointed out across the platforms. On the PS4, many reviewers, including App Trigger and IGN, mentioned noticeable framerate dips, particularly in the forest area and during key transitions, which can break immersion. Critics like LaPS4 and Worth Playing highlighted issues such as texture flickering and inconsistent frame rates, which detract from the overall experience. On Xbox One, while the performance is generally stable, critics like Multiplayer.it noted animation glitches and frame rate drops that affect gameplay. On the Nintendo Switch, reviewers such as Nintendo Life and Nintendo Insider reported performance issues, particularly during loading sequences, which can be distracting, though manageable due to the game's slow-paced nature. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that What Remains of Edith Finch provides a largely enjoyable experience despite its technical shortcomings. While there are minor performance issues and occasional stutters noted by critics such as Twinfinite and PlaySense on PS4, the game's narrative strength and immersive qualities often overshadow these drawbacks. On Xbox One, the performance is generally stable, with only minor issues affecting gameplay. The Switch version, while experiencing some frame drops, remains playable due to the game's pacing. On PC, the game is praised for its smooth performance, with minimal issues reported. Ultimately, while technical performance varies by platform, the overall sentiment suggests that the game's storytelling and atmosphere prevail, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"What Remains of Edith Finch" captivates with its emotional storytelling, prompting some critics to advocate for multiple playthroughs to revisit its rich narrative. However, many highlight its short, linear structure (1.5 to 3 hours) as a major limitation, deeming it best enjoyed in a single sitting. While it leaves a lasting impression, the game struggles to provide compelling reasons for replay, primarily appealing to trophy hunters and those wanting to uncover missed details. Overall, it's praised for its storytelling but criticized for its limited replay value.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

16%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of "What Remains of Edith Finch" highlight some intriguing aspects of the game that resonate positively with certain critics. Reviewers such as Hobby Consolas and PSNStores emphasize that the game’s narrative depth and emotional impact may encourage players to revisit it, suggesting that the experience is rich enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. Critics like The Sydney Morning Herald and GameGrin also express a desire to return to the game, indicating that the artful storytelling and layered experiences can leave a lasting impression that might entice players to explore the narrative further. Additionally, features like the ability to revisit specific scenes, as noted by TrueAchievements, provide some incentive for players to engage with the game again, even if only to uncover missed details. However, a significant number of critics point out the limitations of the game's replay value, primarily due to its short length and linear structure. Many reviews, including those from COGconnected, DarkStation, and Game Rant, mention that the game is relatively brief, typically lasting between 1.5 to 3 hours, which inherently restricts the incentive for multiple playthroughs. Critics like IGN Spain and Metro GameCentral stress that while the emotional narrative is engaging, it does not provide compelling reasons to replay the game beyond trophy hunting or achievement collection. This sentiment is echoed by PC Games and Gamer.nl, who highlight the game's focus on narrative over traditional gameplay mechanics, which may not appeal to players looking for a more dynamic replay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "What Remains of Edith Finch" offers a unique and emotionally resonant experience, its replay value is limited due to its short duration and linear storytelling. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Italy and Vandal, acknowledge that the game leaves a lasting impression but may not encourage multiple playthroughs. Despite some voices advocating for its replayability based on narrative depth, the overarching sentiment leans towards the idea that the game is best experienced in a single sitting, with only a few players expressing a desire to revisit it for deeper understanding or to uncover missed details. Thus, while the game is celebrated for its storytelling, it ultimately faces criticism regarding its replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding What Remains of Edith Finch is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its ambitious storytelling, emotional depth, and innovative gameplay. Reviewers such as Gaming Nexus and CGMagazine highlight the game's ability to evoke strong emotions and deliver a cohesive narrative experience, while others like Game Informer and Polygon commend its attention to detail and artistic presentation. Critics like Gameblog.fr and Wccftech emphasize the game's narrative depth, suggesting it sets a new benchmark for storytelling in video games. The immersive environments and varied gameplay styles are also frequently mentioned as standout features that contribute to the game's overall impact, with many reviewers describing it as a must-play for fans of narrative-driven experiences. However, there are some criticisms that emerge from the reviews, primarily focusing on the game's brevity and occasional lack of clarity in its narrative. Critics such as EGM express disappointment in the depth of character development and the feeling of wasted potential, while others like GameCrate note that the absence of clear answers can lead to an anticlimactic experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including Video Chums and Riot Pixels, point out technical issues and gameplay inconsistencies that detract from the overall experience. The game's short length is also a recurring theme, with several critics mentioning that it may not justify its price point, as noted by VideoGamer and Twinfinite. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch is a remarkable achievement in interactive storytelling. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's emotional resonance and artistic execution, with many reviewers recommending it highly. Critics like Time and Atomix encapsulate this sentiment by labeling it a must-play title that leaves a lasting impression. Overall, while some aspects of the game may not resonate with every player, the collective praise for its narrative and emotional depth suggests that it is a significant contribution to the medium, making it a noteworthy experience for those who appreciate thoughtful storytelling in video games.

TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch receives overwhelmingly positive acclaim for its ambitious storytelling, emotional depth, and innovative gameplay, with many critics deeming it a must-play for narrative enthusiasts. While some point out issues like brevity, lack of character development, and minor technical flaws, the game's artistic execution and immersive experiences make it a standout in interactive storytelling. Overall, it's hailed as a significant contribution to video games, despite some criticisms.

MONSTER

Reviews

164 reviews found

100

Wccftech

PlayStation 4

May 2, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is highly recommended for its emotional depth, storytelling, and artistic execution, raising the bar for interactive narratives.

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100

Guardian

PlayStation 4

Apr 26, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is a poignant and beautifully crafted experience that captures the essence of storytelling, making it a must-play for fans of narrative-driven games.

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100

GameSpew

PlayStation 4

Apr 28, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is a stunning and emotionally rich experience that challenges traditional gaming narratives, making it a must-play.

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100

XBLA Fans

Xbox One

Sep 1, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is an absolutely beautiful and emotionally complex game. It celebrates life and should not be missed.

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100

Generación Xbox

Xbox One

Jul 23, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is hailed as a milestone in gaming, offering a profound and human exploration of death and memory. It stands out for its innovative narrative and emotional depth, making it a necessary experience for players.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Jul 18, 2017

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

The reviewer had a perfect experience with the game, likening it to a brilliant movie with outstanding writing and design, and expresses a strong desire to replay it.

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100

Telegraph

May 8, 2017

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

The reviewer considers What Remains of Edith Finch to be a profoundly powerful and emotional experience, potentially their favorite game ever.

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100

PSNStores

PlayStation 4

Apr 28, 2017

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

What Remains of Edith Finch is a beautifully crafted narrative experience that finds beauty in death and emphasizes the importance of life and family. It is a profound and personal journey.

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100

Push Square

PlayStation 4

Apr 26, 2017

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

Giant Sparrow delivers beyond expectations with a moving, intriguing story, incredible voice work, and a fully realized home. What Remains of Edith Finch is described as the genre's new golden standard.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

Jun 7, 2017

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

The game deserves to be played, remembered, discussed, and considered long after playing.

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