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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

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

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

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch has garnered critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, with many praising its anthology-style narrative that explores themes of love, loss, and family. Critics highlight its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions and laud its inventive structure. However, some reviews note shortcomings in character development and narrative coherence, with critiques about the ending lacking impact. Despite these concerns, the consensus is that the game is a masterpiece of storytelling, deeply resonating with players and solidifying its place in narrative-driven gaming.

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 story of What Remains of Edith Finch has been widely praised by critics, who commend its intricate narrative and emotional depth. Many reviewers highlight the unique storytelling approach, with each family member's tale offering a distinct aesthetic and emotional resonance. For instance, Time describes it as an "exceptionally well-told anthology," while Twinfinite notes the "beautiful anthology of stories about love, death, and family." Critics appreciate how the game intertwines themes of memory and loss, with Wccftech emphasizing the "powerful and beautifully executed" narrative that engages players on a profound level. The game's ability to evoke a range of emotions, from sorrow to acceptance, is also noted, with Pocket Gamer UK highlighting its balance between grim deaths and light-hearted humor. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Some critics express concerns about the depth of character development and the overall execution of the narrative. For example, EGM argues that the game "falls short" in delivering a more profound thematic substance, suggesting that while the writing is decent, it lacks exceptional quality. Similarly, New Game Network points out that the ending leaves the story feeling less impactful than it could have been, which resonates with other critiques regarding the narrative's coherence. Game Revolution also mentions that while the journey is compelling, the conclusion may leave players wanting more clarity, indicating a sense of unresolved tension in the narrative. Despite the criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers leans heavily toward viewing What Remains of Edith Finch as a masterpiece in storytelling. Many critics, such as Guardian and IBTimes UK, laud the game for its inventive narrative structure and emotional impact, suggesting that the unique storytelling methods contribute significantly to its success. The rich tapestry of tales woven through Edith's exploration of her family's tragic history resonates with players, fostering a deep connection to the characters and their experiences. Ultimately, while there are valid critiques regarding certain aspects of the narrative, the majority of critics agree that the game offers a compelling and emotionally charged exploration of life, death, and memory, solidifying its status as a significant entry in the realm of narrative-driven games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch astounds with its narrative-driven gameplay, earning praise for innovative storytelling and immersive experiences. Critics celebrate the unique mechanics in each family member's vignette, creating a rich tapestry that engages players emotionally. However, many note drawbacks like limited interactivity, linear gameplay, and cumbersome controls, which can detract from immersion. Despite these issues, the game succeeds in subverting traditional walking simulator norms, offering a poignant exploration of family tragedy that resonates deeply with players.

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 a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its innovative approach to storytelling. Many reviewers, such as Gamer.no and DualShockers, highlight the unique mechanics employed in each family member's vignette, which provide varied and engaging experiences that enhance the narrative. Critics like IGN and Time emphasize the immersive quality of the gameplay, noting that the exploration of the Finch house and the interactive flashbacks allow players to connect deeply with the family's tragic history. The game is praised for its ability to shift between different gameplay styles, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that keep players engaged, as noted by Easy Allies and Video Chums. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay, primarily concerning its limited interactivity and linearity. EGM and Slant Magazine argue that the gameplay is minimalistic and often feels more like a guided experience than a traditional game, with interactions primarily serving narrative purposes rather than providing engaging mechanics. Critics like New Game Network and App Trigger echo this sentiment, stating that while the gameplay is varied, it can feel disjointed or overly simplistic, potentially detracting from immersion. Furthermore, some reviews, such as those from Gaming Nexus and GameSpot, mention issues with cumbersome controls, particularly on certain platforms, which can hinder the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch stands out as a remarkable example of narrative-driven gameplay, despite its shortcomings. While many reviewers acknowledge the game's minimalistic approach and limited interactivity, they also commend its ability to create emotional and memorable experiences through unique storytelling methods. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Generación Xbox highlight the game's success in subverting typical walking simulator conventions, providing a fresh perspective on how video games can tell stories. In summary, while the gameplay may not satisfy those seeking traditional mechanics, it offers a compelling and artistic exploration of the Finch family's tragic legacy that resonates with many players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch wows critics with its immersive graphics and intricate visual design, creating a captivating atmosphere that enhances storytelling. While some minor texture issues and comparisons to other titles are noted, the game's attention to detail and unique artistic choices solidify its status as a standout in visual storytelling. Overall, it successfully pulls players into the Finch family's emotional journey.

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 overall sentiment towards the graphics and visual design of What Remains of Edith Finch is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game's immersive environments and meticulous attention to detail. Reviewers like MondoXbox highlight the original and detailed visual design, noting the surreal and dreamlike sequences that enhance the storytelling experience. Critics from outlets such as PSNStores and Push Square emphasize the rich detail found within the Finch residence, describing it as a character in itself, filled with mementos that reflect the family's history and personalities. The various artistic styles employed throughout the game, as noted by Gaming Age and DualShockers, contribute to a unique visual experience that resonates with players, while the use of environmental storytelling is lauded by Game Informer and EGM as a means to convey character backgrounds effectively. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the visual presentation. For instance, NintendoWorldReport mentioned texture loading issues in the PS4 version, which detracted from the otherwise stunning visuals. Additionally, while many praised the detail in the environments, some reviews, such as those from GameStar and Worth Playing, noted that the graphics, while beautiful, are not groundbreaking when compared to other visually stunning titles. Furthermore, Slant Magazine raised concerns that some visual elements trivialized the emotional weight of certain stories, suggesting that while the aesthetics are impressive, they do not always translate into emotionally resonant experiences. In summary, the consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a captivating and immersive atmosphere that enhances the storytelling. Critics across the board, including those from IGN and The Digital Fix, agree that the game's attention to detail and innovative artistic choices contribute significantly to the overall experience. While minor issues and critiques exist, they do not overshadow the game's ability to draw players into the Finch family's world, making it a standout title in terms of visual design within the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch excels in sound design and music, earning acclaim for its emotional depth and atmospheric qualities. Critics praise Jeff Russo's subtle score and professional voice acting, which enhance the narrative. However, some note a lack of memorable musical themes and impactful emotional moments. Overall, the audio elements are deemed essential for creating a resonant experience, solidifying the game's critical acclaim despite a few minor critiques.

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 praise from critics, with many highlighting the emotional depth and atmospheric qualities that enhance the gaming experience. Reviewers such as Atomix and Eurogamer Italy commend Jeff Russo's score for its subtlety and ability to complement the game's emotional tone. Critics like Digital Chumps and IGN Spain emphasize how the orchestral music enhances pivotal moments, contributing to the overall immersion. The voice acting is another standout element, described as professional and convincing by multiple sources, including Forbes and Gamer.no, which adds to the emotional weight of the narratives being told. The integration of sound design into gameplay is noted by several critics, including Guardian and The Digital Fix, who appreciate how it enhances the storytelling and atmosphere. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain limitations in the sound design and music. DarkStation noted that while the music selections fit the stories, none particularly stand out, suggesting a lack of memorable themes. Riot Pixels echoed this sentiment, stating that while the music is beautiful, it could have been more impactful during emotional moments. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from XboxAddict and Multiplayer.it, mentioned that the soundtrack, while well-composed, sometimes lacked the punch needed to elevate the emotional stakes further. This indicates that while the audio design is strong, there are moments where it may not fully resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in What Remains of Edith Finch significantly enhance the emotional and narrative experience of the game. The majority of reviewers, including PlayStation Universe and Push Square, agree that the audio elements are not just complementary but essential in conveying the various tones of the stories. The blend of high-quality voice acting, immersive sound design, and a well-crafted musical score creates a melancholic and warm atmosphere that resonates with players. While some critiques regarding the memorability of certain musical pieces exist, the overwhelming sentiment remains that the audio experience is a strong asset to the game, contributing to its critical acclaim and emotional impact.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the voice acting in What Remains of Edith Finch, highlighting its emotional depth and character immersion. Valerie Rose Lohman's portrayal of Edith stands out as particularly impactful. While some minor inconsistencies and the lack of non-English dialogue have been noted, the overall consensus is that the voice work significantly enhances the game's narrative and emotional experience.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including COGconnected and Forbes, praised the voice acting for its emotional depth and quality, which significantly enhances the overall experience of the game. Critics from Eurogamer Italy and Gameblog.fr highlighted how the performances bring depth to each character, effectively integrating with the narrative to elevate the storytelling. The standout performance by Valerie Rose Lohman as Edith has been frequently mentioned, with critics from PlayStation Universe and XboxAddict noting her ability to capture the character's youth and apprehension, making her narration feel both significant and engaging. However, not all reviews were entirely positive. The Jimquisition pointed out some inconsistencies in the voice acting, suggesting that while it contributes to the overall experience, there are minor drawbacks that detract from its effectiveness. Additionally, IGN Spain mentioned that the dialogues are only available in English, which could complicate the narrative experience for non-English speaking players, potentially alienating a segment of the audience. This concern about accessibility, while not a direct critique of the quality of the voice acting itself, highlights a limitation that could affect some players' enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in What Remains of Edith Finch is of high quality and plays a crucial role in enhancing the game's narrative and emotional impact. The majority of reviewers, including those from Twinfinite and Vandal, emphasized that the performances add significant depth to the characters and their stories, making the experience more immersive and engaging. Despite minor criticisms regarding inconsistencies and accessibility, the overwhelming sentiment is that the voice acting is a standout feature of the game, contributing positively to its overall reception.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"What Remains of Edith Finch" shines with solid technical performance on PC and Xbox One, earning praise for smooth gameplay. However, the PS4 and Nintendo Switch versions suffer from framerate dips and other issues that can disrupt immersion. Overall, while the narrative is compelling, technical stability needs improvement, especially on PS4 and Switch.

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.

Positive Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms Across all platforms, "What Remains of Edith Finch" showcases a generally solid technical performance, particularly on PC and Xbox One. Critics like Generación Xbox praised the Xbox One version for running smoothly at 30 FPS without drops, indicating strong optimization. Similarly, PC reviewers such as Multiplayer.it and PC Games reported smooth gameplay with no significant technical issues, suggesting that the game performs well even on less powerful machines. The Nintendo Switch version also received some commendations, with Pocket Gamer UK noting that the game runs well overall, despite minor graphical stutters. This indicates that the developers have managed to create a stable experience across various platforms, allowing players to immerse themselves in the narrative without major disruptions. Negative Aspects of Technical Performance Across Platforms However, there are notable technical issues that critics have highlighted, particularly on the PS4 and Nintendo Switch. On PS4, several reviewers, including DarkStation and IGN, pointed out noticeable framerate dips, especially during critical moments like approaching the house. Critics like LaPS4 and Worth Playing mentioned issues such as texture flickering and inconsistent frame rates, which detract from immersion. On the Nintendo Switch, while the game runs well overall, both Nintendo Life and Nintendo Insider reported performance issues, particularly with framerate drops during loading, which can disrupt the player experience. On Xbox One, while the performance is generally stable, some critics like Multiplayer.it noted animation glitches and occasional frame rate drops, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall Consensus of Critics In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that while "What Remains of Edith Finch" delivers a compelling narrative experience across all platforms, technical performance varies. The PS4 version has received mixed feedback, with several reviewers indicating that minor performance issues can disrupt immersion, though they often do not ruin the experience. The Xbox One and PC versions are generally praised for their stability, with few significant issues reported. The Nintendo Switch version, while playable, does experience some performance hiccups that may affect gameplay. Ultimately, while the game excels in storytelling, the technical performance leaves room for improvement, particularly on the PS4 and Switch, as noted by critics like God is a Geek and Nintendo Life.

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 suggest replay value through features like "Replay a Story." However, the consensus is clear: its short, linear narrative and lack of traditional gameplay challenges limit replayability. While some may return for its poignant moments, the game is best experienced in a single sitting, appealing more to narrative enthusiasts than to those seeking multiple playthroughs.

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.

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of What Remains of Edith Finch, there are notable positives that emerge from their reviews. Many critics, such as Twinfinite and PlaySense, highlight the game's emotional depth and unique storytelling, suggesting that these elements may encourage players to revisit the experience. TrueAchievements points out the "Replay a Story" feature, which allows players to revisit specific scenes, offering a semblance of replayability. Critics like The Sydney Morning Herald and Gameplanet express a desire to play the game multiple times to relive the impactful stories of the Finch family, indicating that the narrative's richness may draw players back, despite its brevity. Conversely, the majority of reviews underscore significant limitations in replay value. Critics such as Game Rant, DarkStation, and PC Games emphasize the game's short length—often cited as lasting between 1.5 to 3 hours—and its linear narrative structure, which collectively deter multiple playthroughs. Many reviewers, including InsideGamer.nl and Hardcore Gamer, explicitly state that the game lacks the traditional gameplay challenges that typically encourage replayability, leading to a consensus that the experience is primarily designed for a single, immersive journey rather than repeated exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the notion that while What Remains of Edith Finch offers a deeply engaging and emotional experience, its replay value is limited. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Worth Playing reinforce the idea that the game is best enjoyed in one sitting, with little incentive to return for additional playthroughs. However, there are exceptions, as some critics—like GameSpew and TheXboxHub—suggest that the desire to uncover missed narrative details or simply to experience the game's emotional impact again may prompt players to revisit it. Ultimately, the game is characterized as a poignant narrative experience with limited replayability, appealing primarily to those who appreciate its storytelling rather than traditional gameplay mechanics.

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 regarding What Remains of Edith Finch among critics is predominantly positive, with many praising its unique storytelling and emotional depth. Reviewers such as PC Games and Game Informer commend the game for its beautifully told narrative that balances tragedy and comedy, leaving a lasting emotional impact. Critics like Hobby Consolas and GameCrate highlight the game's ability to explore profound themes of life and death, showcasing the potential of video games as a medium for storytelling. The game's artistic presentation and innovative gameplay mechanics are also frequently celebrated, with Wccftech and Generación Xbox noting its role in raising the bar for interactive narratives. The emotional resonance of the game, as expressed by Polygon and Easy Allies, contributes to its status as a memorable experience that lingers in players' minds long after completion. However, despite the overwhelming praise, some critics express reservations regarding certain aspects of the game. EGM points out that while the storytelling is ambitious, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative and deeper character development, suggesting a sense of wasted potential. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and Game Revolution mention the game's brevity and minimal gameplay as potential drawbacks that may not satisfy all players. Critics like Game Rant also note that some may be disappointed by the game's ending and graphical issues, indicating that while the experience is largely positive, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that What Remains of Edith Finch is a standout title in the narrative adventure genre, offering a unique and emotionally charged experience. The majority of reviewers, including Time and Ragequit.gr, highly recommend the game for its storytelling and emotional engagement, despite acknowledging its brevity and some technical shortcomings. The game is described as a must-play for those who appreciate narrative-driven experiences, with many critics, such as Nintendo Life and XboxAddict, emphasizing its powerful story and innovative approach to gameplay. This collective appreciation underscores the game's significance and impact within the gaming community, making it a noteworthy entry in the genre.

TL;DR

What Remains of Edith Finch receives widespread acclaim for its unique storytelling and emotional depth, praised for balancing tragedy and comedy, with standout artistic presentation and gameplay. Critics highlight its exploration of life and death, declaring it a must-play for narrative enthusiasts. However, some note flaws in character development, brevity, and technical issues. Overall, it's recognized as a significant title in the narrative adventure genre, though not without its shortcomings.

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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