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MONSTER

Wizard with a Gun

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wizard with a Gun
Item: Wizard with a Gun
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 16, 2023

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperGalvanic Games

Overview

Wizard with a Gun is an online cooperative sandbox survival game set in a magical wilderness wrought with dangerous creatures and arcane mysteries. Embark on a journey alone or with friends to collect, craft, and outfit your wizard however you see fit as you explore the unknown.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Wizard with a Gun offers a captivating premise in a magical, post-apocalyptic world, praised for its imaginative setting and intriguing lore. Critics appreciate its whimsical yet dark tone and the dense narrative. However, many highlight significant flaws, including a lack of depth, incomplete storytelling, and lifeless NPCs that hinder immersion. While the game's foundation is solid, it ultimately falls short on character engagement and storytelling, leaving critics disappointed despite its potential.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for Wizard with a Gun present a mix of positive sentiments, particularly regarding the game's imaginative setting and premise. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and GameGrin appreciate the magical world and the lore that players can uncover as they progress. The game’s narrative, which involves a wizard cowboy tasked with restoring balance and preventing chaos, is seen as intriguing by several reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer, who notes the enjoyable and dense story with interesting lore. The whimsical yet sinister tone mentioned by Digital Chumps adds depth to the experience, while the well-crafted text and lore highlighted by Screen Rant suggest that there is a thoughtful narrative foundation, even if it is somewhat predictable. However, a significant number of critics point out the story's shortcomings, indicating that it lacks depth and complexity. IGN criticized the narrative as incomplete and anticlimactic, while PC Invasion described it as generic, with lifeless NPCs that detract from immersion. Many reviews, including those from Shacknews and TechRadar Gaming, highlight that while the premise has potential, the execution falls short, with a lack of emphasis on lore and character interactions. The repetitive dialogue and limited character depth noted by Softpedia further contribute to a sense of disappointment regarding the storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Wizard with a Gun offers a captivating premise set in a magical, post-apocalyptic world, it struggles with narrative depth and character engagement. Many reviewers, such as Worth Playing and XboxAddict, recognize the interesting aspects of the story, but they also emphasize that the gameplay often overshadows the narrative elements. Ultimately, the game seems to have a solid foundation that could have been developed into a more engaging story, but numerous critiques point to flaws that prevent it from fully realizing its potential.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Wizard with a Gun impresses with its addictive gameplay, engaging exploration, and unique crafting system, earning praise for its cooperative play and diverse enemies. However, critics flag issues like simplistic combat, cumbersome controls, and balance problems that can frustrate players. While it offers a compelling roguelike experience, the game needs refinement to fully shine in the crowded market.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Wizard with a Gun has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging mechanics and addictive gameplay loop. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Noisy Pixel praise the captivating nature of the gameplay, emphasizing the exploration elements and the thrill of combat against various enemies. The game’s crafting system, which allows players to create and modify bullets, has been noted by critics such as Shacknews and Siliconera as a significant aspect that adds depth to the overall experience. The cooperative play feature has also been highlighted by IGN, who mentioned the fun spell combos and unique combat scenarios that enhance the multiplayer experience. Additionally, the variety of enemy types and the roguelike elements, as pointed out by Gamersky and PC Gamer, contribute to a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics have identified notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Some reviews, such as those from Screen Rant and PC Invasion, describe the combat mechanics as simplistic and repetitive, lacking the depth that could elevate the experience. The controls have been criticized for being cumbersome, as noted by SpazioGames and The Games Machine, which can detract from the overall enjoyment, especially during intense combat scenarios. Additionally, the balance issues mentioned by IGN, where solo mode is deemed too difficult while co-op is too easy, indicate a lack of polish in the game's design that could frustrate players. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and Hardcore Gamer also pointed out that the reliance on resource gathering and crafting can lead to moments of frustration, particularly in the early stages of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Wizard with a Gun offers a compelling and addictive gameplay experience, particularly for those who enjoy roguelike and survival elements. While the game excels in creating an engaging loop of exploration, combat, and crafting, it is hindered by some mechanical flaws and balance issues that may affect player enjoyment. Critics like Worth Playing and Digital Chumps encapsulate this sentiment by acknowledging the methodical and satisfying gameplay loop, while also recognizing the potential for improvement in areas such as combat depth and control responsiveness. As a whole, Wizard with a Gun presents a promising experience, but it may require further refinement to fully realize its potential in the competitive gaming landscape.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Wizard with a Gun impresses critics with its charming graphics and unique aesthetic, reminiscent of French comics and Cult of the Lamb. The colorful visuals and engaging world are standout features, though some criticize repetitive dungeons, lack of enemy variety, and occasional glitches. Overall, its artistic presentation shines, making for a captivating gaming experience despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Wizard with a Gun have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its unique and charming aesthetic. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming highlight the game's gorgeous visuals, likening them to traditional French comic books, while Gamereactor UK notes the animation style and art direction as standout features reminiscent of Cult of the Lamb. Many critics, including Hardcore Gamer and Hey Poor Player, appreciate the colorful and personality-filled visuals, emphasizing the engaging world created despite limited resources. The game's blend of fantasy and Western elements, as observed by Hardcore Gamer, contributes to its eye-catching, cartoonish art style, which is further supported by the positive remarks from IGN Portugal about the well-designed characters and biomes. However, there are some criticisms regarding the game's visual design. Gamersky points out that while the game features four distinct regions with unique art styles, the repetitive dungeon process and underwhelming final boss battle detract from the overall experience. Noisy Pixel mentions a lack of enemy variety, which could affect the visual engagement during gameplay. Additionally, Windows Central notes visual glitches and oddities that may disrupt immersion, while XboxAddict highlights some repetition in enemy designs, suggesting that while the visuals are colorful and distinct, they could benefit from greater diversity. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Wizard with a Gun excels in its artistic presentation, with a delightful mix of styles that enhance the gaming experience. Critics agree on the game's charming and engaging visuals, with many, like Softpedia and Worth Playing, emphasizing the art style's ability to enhance gameplay mechanics and create an enjoyable world to explore. Despite some concerns regarding repetition and occasional visual glitches, the game's aesthetic appeal remains a significant strength, making it a visually captivating experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics generally praise the enchanting soundtrack of Wizard with a Gun, highlighting its immersive quality and blend of acoustic guitar and Western influences. While some find the music forgettable and the sound design standard, the overall sentiment leans positive, with many noting it significantly enhances the game's atmosphere and charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews for the sound design and music of Wizard with a Gun reveal a generally positive sentiment among critics. Many reviewers highlight the enchanting and immersive qualities of the soundtrack. Checkpoint Gaming praises the "dreamy guitar soundtrack," which enhances the game's atmosphere, while Hardcore Gamer describes the music as "particularly lovely," characterized by a blend of acoustic guitar ballads and bardcore influences. IGN Portugal adds to this by noting the Western-inspired elements reminiscent of Ennio Morricone, which contribute to the game's unique aesthetic. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming mentions a playful feature in the sound design, where the main menu strums like a guitar, further enriching the overall experience. The eclectic mix of genres, including country music and fantasy elements, is noted by Worth Playing and Softpedia, who both appreciate how the soundtrack enhances immersion. However, not all opinions are entirely favorable. XboxAddict points out that while the soundtrack fits the game's mood, it is "largely forgettable," indicating a lack of memorability in the music. This sentiment is echoed by some critics who feel that the sound design is somewhat standard, with Softpedia noting the absence of voice acting, which may detract from the overall audio experience. Additionally, while several reviewers appreciate the soundtrack, there are mentions of sound effects, such as footsteps and weapon firing, taking precedence over the music, which could lead to a less cohesive auditory experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the soundtrack of Wizard with a Gun is a strong point, contributing significantly to the game's immersive atmosphere. Reviewers like LevelUp and Windows Central emphasize how the music complements the various biomes and enhances the overall experience. Despite some criticisms regarding the forgettability of certain tracks and the standard nature of sound design, the majority of opinions lean towards a positive reception of the music, with many finding it to be an integral part of the game's charm and adventure.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Wizard with a Gun shines on PC and Steam Deck with smooth performance and minimal issues, earning praise from critics. However, PS5 and Xbox Series X versions struggle with frame skips, stuttering, and optimization flaws, hindering gameplay. A clear need for console improvements is evident to match the positive experience on PC.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The technical performance of Wizard with a Gun varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with PC users generally reporting a positive experience. Critics from GameGrin and The Games Machine praised the game for its smooth performance, with no bugs or issues encountered even at high settings. Worth Playing also noted that the game performs well on the Steam Deck, achieving 60fps most of the time, which is commendable for a handheld device. This suggests that the developers have optimized the game effectively for PCs and handheld gaming, allowing players to enjoy a fluid experience without major disruptions. Conversely, the performance on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X appears to be less favorable. PlayStation Universe highlighted issues such as regular frame skips, stuttering, and occasional freezing, which detract from the overall gameplay experience. Push Square echoed these sentiments, mentioning unoptimized controls and frame rate drops, while WellPlayed noted "occasional technical hiccups." On the Xbox Series X, LevelUp reported frame rate drops during intense moments with many enemies on screen, and Windows Central corroborated this by mentioning occasional dropped frames and stutters. These criticisms indicate that the console versions of the game suffer from performance inconsistencies that could hinder player enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a clear divide in technical performance based on the platform. While PC and Steam Deck users enjoy a largely smooth experience, the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions face notable challenges that impact gameplay. The contrasting reviews highlight the need for further optimization on console platforms, as the issues reported by critics like PlayStation Universe and LevelUp suggest that the game may not be fully polished for these systems. As it stands, Wizard with a Gun shows promise on PC, but it requires attention to technical performance on consoles to ensure a uniformly enjoyable experience for all players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Wizard with a Gun" shines with engaging mechanics and strong multiplayer features, earning praise for its replayability through procedural maps and roguelite elements. However, critics warn of potential repetitiveness and a lack of deep progression, which could dampen long-term player interest. While it’s a blast for multiplayer fans, its lasting appeal remains uncertain due to concerns over gameplay simplicity and diminishing excitement over time.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Wizard with a Gun" is largely positive, with many reviewers highlighting the game's engaging mechanics and features that encourage players to return. Critics like But Why Tho? and Noisy Pixel emphasize the game's potential for replayability, citing its ever-expanding adventure and robust multiplayer functionality. The procedural generation of maps, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Softpedia, adds variety to each playthrough, ensuring that players encounter different challenges and experiences. Additionally, the roguelite elements, mentioned by Player 2 and XboxAddict, provide a compelling incentive for players to experiment with different strategies and build combinations, further enhancing the game's allure. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's long-term replay value. Some reviewers, such as Gamersky and Screen Rant, point out that while the gameplay loop can be enjoyable, it may become repetitive over time, potentially leading to a decline in player engagement. Critics like PC Invasion and Shacknews express concerns about the lack of strong progression hooks and post-game content, which could limit the game's longevity. Furthermore, the simplicity of gameplay, as highlighted by IGN Portugal, may deter some players from fully immersing themselves in the experience, suggesting that the initial excitement might wane after extended play. In summary, while "Wizard with a Gun" offers a variety of features that encourage replayability, such as its cooperative gameplay, crafting systems, and roguelite elements, critics are divided on its long-term appeal. The consensus appears to be that the game provides a fun and engaging experience, particularly in multiplayer settings, as noted by Gamereactor UK and Digital Chumps. However, concerns about repetitiveness and a lack of substantial progression may hinder its replay value for some players. Overall, the game seems to cater well to those who enjoy its core mechanics, but its sustainability as a long-term title remains in question.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Wizard with a Gun" is predominantly positive, with several critics praising its engaging gameplay, unique premise, and artistic direction. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Worth Playing highlight the game's balance between crafting and action, awarding it high scores of 9/10 and 8/10, respectively. Many critics, including Hardcore Gamer and GamingTrend, commend the game's vibrant visuals and immersive world, noting its potential for both single-player and multiplayer experiences. The crafting system and magic mechanics are frequently mentioned as standout features, providing depth and variety in gameplay. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and Siliconera appreciate the game's accessibility, making it enjoyable even for those who may not typically engage with survival genres. However, the game is not without its flaws, which have been pointed out by several reviewers. Critics like Gamereactor UK and IGN express concerns over the overwhelming crafting and RPG mechanics, which can detract from the overall experience. The game has been described as repetitive and grindy by God is a Geek and Screen Rant, with some reviewers noting that it lacks depth and fails to engage players over extended periods. Technical issues, such as control responsiveness and frame rate drops, were also mentioned by critics like PlayStation Universe and WellPlayed, indicating that the game may feel unfinished or unpolished in certain aspects. Despite the mixed feedback, the overall consensus among critics suggests that "Wizard with a Gun" is a solid title worth exploring, particularly for fans of crafting and roguelite experiences. While some reviewers like Shacknews and PC Invasion note that the execution of certain mechanics could be improved, the game's charm and potential for fun, especially in multiplayer settings, shine through. Many critics believe that, with future updates and refinements, "Wizard with a Gun" could evolve into a more polished and engaging experience, making it a title to keep an eye on as it develops.

TL;DR

"Wizard with a Gun" has garnered mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay, unique premise, and vibrant visuals, earning high scores from critics. Standout features include its crafting system and magic mechanics that appeal to both solo and multiplayer players. However, concerns over overwhelming mechanics, repetition, and technical issues have been raised, with some reviewers deeming it grindy and unfinished. Despite its flaws, many agree it's worth exploring, especially for fans of crafting and roguelite games, with potential for improvement in future updates.

MONSTER

Reviews

47 reviews found

GamingTrend

Oct 16, 2023