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MONSTER

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty
Item: Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 3, 2023

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

DeveloperTeam Ninja

Overview

Set in the Later Han Dynasty of the Three Kingdoms, a nameless militia soldier uses the swordplay of the Chinese martial arts to battle demons in a dark fantasy world.

Elsewhere

6.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

27%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are varied. Some critics, such as PCGamesN and TheSixthAxis, appreciate the blending of historical events, such as the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, with a shady arcane conspiracy or recognizable characters. They find the story enjoyable, intense, and fun. Gaming Nexus also praises the game for capturing the essence of 3rd century China with intricate character and environment designs that remain faithful to history. These positive opinions highlight the game's ability to create an immersive and authentic setting. However, there are critics who express negative opinions about the story. ZTGD and Game Informer find the story difficult to follow and lacking depth, with ZTGD specifically mentioning that it serves as set-dressing for the gameplay elements. Screen Rant criticizes the story for devolving into a bloated melodrama with nonsensical plot twists, while TheGamer describes it as derivative and lacking in memorable characters or subverted expectations. These negative opinions suggest that the story may not be engaging or well-developed enough to fully captivate players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some appreciate the story's blend of history and fantasy, others find it lacking in depth or coherence. Critics such as KeenGamer and GGRecon mention that the story primarily serves as a backdrop for the gameplay, with KeenGamer specifically stating that it is decent but not exceptional. Softpedia considers the story to be generic but serviceable enough not to break immersion. This mixed consensus suggests that the story of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty may not be the game's strongest aspect, but it still manages to provide an adequate narrative framework for players to enjoy the gameplay experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Some praise its blend of history and fantasy, while others criticize its lack of depth and coherence. Positive reviews highlight its immersive setting, while negative reviews point out its convoluted plot and lack of memorable characters. Overall, the consensus is that the story serves as a backdrop for gameplay and is decent but not exceptional.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

75%

Mixed (50-79)

25%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are generally positive. Many critics praise the combat mechanics, with several comparing it to From Software's Sekiro and Team Ninja's Nioh. The gameplay is described as fast-paced, fluid, and satisfying, with a focus on parrying, deflecting, and managing a spirit gauge. The addition of unique mechanics such as the Morale Rank and Spirit Gauge is highlighted by critics like KeenGamer and TheSixthAxis, who appreciate the depth and risk-reward elements they bring to combat. The combat system is also commended for its depth and intricacy, rewarding excellence and perfection, as mentioned by critics like Push Square and Impulsegamer. The introduction of various weapons, skills, spells, and martial arts abilities adds variety and replayability to the gameplay, according to ZTGD and CGMagazine. However, there are some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Some critics mention occasional difficulty spikes that can be frustrating, as noted by PCGamesN and Gaming Nexus. The combat can also feel repetitive, particularly due to the forgiving parry window, according to RPG Site. The magic system is described as complicated and inessential by GameSpew, suggesting that it may not add significant value to the gameplay experience. Additionally, Softpedia mentions that the game is easier compared to previous Team Ninja titles, which may disappoint players seeking a more challenging experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the gameplay of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a strong aspect of the game. The combat mechanics, with its emphasis on parrying, deflecting, and managing a spirit gauge, are praised for being engaging, satisfying, and rewarding. The introduction of unique mechanics, such as the Morale Rank and Spirit Gauge, adds depth and risk-reward elements to combat. The variety of weapons, skills, spells, and martial arts abilities also contribute to the gameplay's variety and replayability. However, there are some drawbacks, including occasional difficulty spikes, repetitive combat, and a complicated and inessential magic system. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is positive, with the gameplay being described as fast-paced, fluid, and enjoyable, reminiscent of other successful titles in the genre like Sekiro and Nioh.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics praise the engaging and satisfying gameplay of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, likening its combat mechanics to popular titles like Sekiro and Nioh. The game's fast-paced nature, focus on parrying and managing spirit gauge, and unique mechanics like Morale Rank are highlighted. However, criticisms include occasional difficulty spikes, repetitive combat, and a complex magic system. Overall, the gameplay is commended for its depth, variety, and replayability, but falls short in some areas compared to previous Team Ninja titles.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

27%

Mixed (50-79)

73%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are mixed. In general, the art style and vibrant colors of the game are praised by multiple critics. Inverse mentions that the art style is vibrant and the graphics are crisp. PCGamesN also commends the sleek visuals and smooth animations, as well as the freakish monster designs. Gfinity adds that the world of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty looks fantastic on PS5. These positive comments indicate that the game has successfully created visually appealing environments and memorable enemy designs. However, there are also some negative opinions regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of the game. KeenGamer points out that while the graphics are solid overall, some textures are blurred and less polished compared to the rest. Gaming Nexus criticizes the dull and murky color palettes, as well as the texture quality that they consider similar to last-gen games. They also mention that the in-game UI and heads-up display are similar to Nioh, which may not be seen as a positive aspect by some players. Additionally, Gaming Nexus highlights repetitious level design and occasional pop-in, which can detract from the overall visual experience. Overall, the critics have differing opinions on the Graphics and Visual Design of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. While some critics praise the vibrant colors, crisp graphics, and memorable enemy designs, others criticize certain aspects such as blurred textures, dull color palettes, and repetitive level design. It is worth noting that there are positive comments from critics like Inverse, PCGamesN, and Gfinity, who highlight the game's visual strengths. However, the negative opinions expressed by critics like KeenGamer and Gaming Nexus should also be taken into consideration. Ultimately, players may have varying preferences when it comes to the visual aspects of the game, and it is recommended to consider multiple opinions before forming a final judgment.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Opinions on the Graphics and Visual Design of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are mixed. Critics praise vibrant colors and crisp graphics, but some mention blurred textures and dull color palettes. Positive comments highlight memorable enemy designs and sleek visuals, while negative feedback points out repetitive level design and occasional pop-in issues. Players should consider both perspectives before forming a final judgment.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

36%

Mixed (50-79)

55%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are quite varied. KeenGamer, Game Informer, Gfinity, Player 2, We Got This Covered, and Shacknews all have positive things to say about the sound design and music. KeenGamer praises the sound design for its fitting themes and well-blended weapon and attack effects, enhancing the game's atmosphere. Game Informer specifically mentions how the sound design enhances the combat experience with a musical twang of steel accompanying parries. Gfinity commends the impeccable soundtrack, with a scattered orchestra, percussion, and the distinct sound of an Erhu, which adds to the overall experience. Player 2 describes the score as beautiful and rousing, fitting the epicness of the battles and setting. We Got This Covered highlights the satisfying sound design, particularly when breaking an enemy's guard. Shacknews praises the music for immersing the reviewer in the game's alternate historical setting, with soothing woodwind sounds during quiet moments and memorable epic tunes during intense moments. On the other hand, PCGamesN, Gaming Nexus, Impulsegamer, Video Chums, and Gaming Nexus have more negative opinions about the sound design and music. PCGamesN criticizes the lackluster sound design, mentioning wooden voice acting, weapons lacking impact, and few standout tracks. Gaming Nexus points out that the English dub is poorly voice acted, and switching audio language requires quitting back to the main menu, recommending playing the game in Chinese or Japanese. Impulsegamer describes the audio as serviceable, but criticizes the horrendous vocal performance in the English dub. Video Chums mentions generic voice acting and cringey line deliveries. Overall, the critics seem to have a mixed opinion about the sound design and music of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. While some critics, like KeenGamer, Game Informer, Gfinity, Player 2, We Got This Covered, and Shacknews, appreciate aspects such as fitting themes, well-blended effects, enhancing the combat experience, impeccable soundtrack, and immersive music, others, like PCGamesN, Gaming Nexus, Impulsegamer, Video Chums, and Gaming Nexus, point out issues with wooden voice acting, lack of impact in weapons, poor vocal performance in the English dub, and generic voice acting. Despite the mixed opinions, it seems that the overall consensus leans more towards the positive side, with several critics highlighting the strengths of the sound design and music in enhancing the game's atmosphere and immersing players in the epic battles and historical setting.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics are divided on the sound design and music of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Some praise the fitting themes, well-blended effects, and immersive soundtrack, while others criticize wooden voice acting and lackluster performances. Overall, opinions lean slightly towards the positive side, with the game's strengths in enhancing atmosphere and immersing players in epic battles being highlighted.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

56%

Negative (0-49)

44%

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are quite varied. Some critics, such as PCGamesN and GameSpew, found the voice acting to be lacking, describing it as wooden and not a strong point. These comments suggest that the voice actors may have struggled to bring depth and emotion to their performances, resulting in a less immersive experience for players. Additionally, Gaming Nexus and Impulsegamer go as far as describing the English dub as poorly voice acted and horrendous in terms of vocal performance, respectively. These strong negative opinions indicate a significant issue with the quality of the voice acting in the game. On the other hand, there are a few critics who provide a slightly more positive perspective. We Got This Covered describes the English voice acting as "deliciously campy," which suggests that while it may not be of the highest quality, it still manages to add a certain charm or entertainment value to the game. Screen Rant also acknowledges Team Ninja's uneven English language voiceover tendencies, indicating that there may be some instances where the voice acting is more successful. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is subpar. The majority of reviewers express dissatisfaction with the English dub, using terms like "noticeably bad," "generic," and "cringey" to describe the performances. This suggests that the voice actors may have struggled to deliver believable and engaging performances, which can have a negative impact on the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game. While there are a few critics who find some redeeming qualities in the voice acting, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment and criticism.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics are divided on the voice acting in Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Some slam it as wooden and horrendous, while others find it campy but lacking quality. Overall, most reviewers criticize the English dub as subpar, using terms like "noticeably bad" and "cringey." The consensus is that the voice actors struggled to deliver believable performances, impacting the game's immersion and enjoyment.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

10%

Mixed (50-79)

70%

Negative (0-49)

20%

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

In terms of the technical performance of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, the opinions of the critics varied across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, on PC, KeenGamer reported no major game-breaking bugs and only mentioned some issues with attacks and deflect attempts not connecting. Similarly, Softpedia mentioned that the PlayStation 5 version of the game worked flawlessly, indicating a smooth experience without any technical issues. We Got This Covered also praised the technical performance on PlayStation 5, describing it as great with no bugs or hiccups reported. These positive experiences on PC and PlayStation 5 highlight that the game can provide a stable and enjoyable experience on these platforms. Moving on to the negatives, RPG Site mentioned issues with the PC port, specifically shader compilation stutter, which could potentially affect the gameplay experience. ZTGD encountered notable bugs on PC, including flickering visuals and frequent crashes, indicating that the game still requires further patches to address these technical issues. On PlayStation 5, GGRecon reported a game-breaking bug that forced the reviewer to start the game anew, suggesting a significant technical flaw that impacted the overall gameplay experience. Game Informer also mentioned noticeable technical issues on PlayStation 5, such as pop-ins and framerate drops in larger areas. Additionally, Gaming Nexus highlighted long load times on PlayStation 5 and the absence of DualSense controller features, which could be seen as missed opportunities for enhanced immersion. Shacknews experienced hiccups in performance mode on Xbox Series X, including framerate drops during cutscenes and a game freeze during a boss fight, indicating technical issues that affected the overall gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the technical performance of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a mixed bag across different gaming platforms. While there are positive experiences reported on PC and PlayStation 5, with no major game-breaking bugs and flawless performance, there are also notable technical issues mentioned on these platforms, such as shader compilation stutter, flickering visuals, and crashes. The game-breaking bug reported on PlayStation 5 and the technical issues encountered on Xbox Series X further contribute to the mixed opinions on the technical performance. It is clear that the game still requires further patches and improvements to provide a consistently smooth and bug-free experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics had mixed opinions on the technical performance of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Positive feedback included smooth experiences on PC and PlayStation 5 with no major bugs. However, there were issues like shader compilation stutter and game-breaking bugs reported on PC and PlayStation 5. Xbox Series X faced performance hiccups. Overall, the game needs more patches to iron out technical issues for a consistently enjoyable gaming experience across all platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

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 Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty are generally positive. CGMagazine praises the game for its freedom and interconnected areas that encourage exploration, as well as its multiplayer mode that allows seamless joining with friends. Gaming Nexus also highlights the game's build variety, randomized gear progression, and the ability to respec, along with the promise of future DLC. Push Square and Screen Rant both mention the presence of build variety and randomised gear drops, which contribute to the replay value. Shacknews appreciates the different battle options and self-imposed limitations, as well as the impact of NPC allies on gameplay. Stevivor mentions the cooperative and competitive multiplayer, as well as the ability to avenge the death of another player in another world. On the other hand, there are a few critics who express some negative aspects regarding the replay value of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Gfinity points out that while the game has an interlevel progression system based on morale, it can be artificially inflated by an overreliance on loot and grinding. Impulsegamer mentions that the game requires micro-managing multiple elements for little reward, which may not appeal to some players. PlayStation LifeStyle notes that although the game offers bite-sized levels that can be completed in a short time, the lack of an interconnected world may disappoint players who enjoy exploration. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty has a decent replay value. The game's freedom, interconnected areas, and multiplayer mode are praised for encouraging exploration and providing a seamless experience with friends. The presence of build variety, randomized gear progression, and the ability to respec are also highlighted as positive aspects that contribute to the replay value. However, there are some concerns raised about the overreliance on loot and grinding, as well as the lack of an interconnected world for exploration. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is that Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty offers enough incentives and gameplay elements to make it enjoyable for replaying.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics generally praise Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty for its replay value, highlighting its freedom, interconnected areas, multiplayer mode, build variety, and randomized gear progression. Some concerns include overreliance on loot and grinding, and the lack of an interconnected world for exploration. Overall, critics find the game offers enough incentives and gameplay elements to make it enjoyable for replaying.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

72%

Mixed (50-79)

28%

Negative (0-49)

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

In analyzing the opinions of multiple reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, it is evident that the game has received a mix of positive and negative feedback. The positive aspects highlighted by the critics include the enjoyable gameplay changes, interesting story, world-building, controls, movement, sense of style, deep gameplay mechanics, and engaging combat. GameStar, Inverse, TheSixthAxis, CGMagazine, and Push Square all praised the game for its enjoyable gameplay mechanics and recommended it to fans of the Soulslike genre. Additionally, Shacknews commended the complex combat system, challenging bosses, solid narrative, beautiful soundtrack, and great ally characters. On the other hand, some negative aspects were also mentioned by the reviewers. The most common criticisms include unfair difficulty spikes, lackluster audio, oversimplification of customization, technical issues with the PC port, poorly explained and underdeveloped new features, and repetitive gameplay structure. PCGamesN, RPG Site, ZTGD, GameSpew, Gaming Age, Video Chums, and TheGamer all pointed out various flaws in the game, such as difficulty spikes, technical issues, and repetitive gameplay. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a solid entry in the Soulslike genre, offering a challenging and rewarding combat system set in the dramatic backdrop of the Three Kingdoms. While it may not surpass its predecessors like Nioh and Sekiro, it still manages to provide an enjoyable experience for fans of the genre. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Softpedia praised the game for its refreshing and unique takes on familiar formulas, while Destructoid and We Got This Covered appreciated the unique setting, engaging gameplay, and rewarding mechanics. However, some critics, like TheGamer, felt that the game fell short in delivering a truly unique experience and missed the mark of its inspirations. Despite the mixed feedback, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception, with many critics recommending the game to fans of the Soulslike genre.

TL;DR

Critics have mixed opinions on Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty. Positive feedback includes enjoyable gameplay, interesting story, and engaging combat, recommended for Soulslike genre fans. However, criticisms mention difficulty spikes, lackluster audio, and technical issues. Overall, the game is seen as a solid entry in the genre but falls short of surpassing its predecessors. Despite some flaws, critics generally recommend it to fans of Soulslike games.

MONSTER

Reviews

196 reviews found

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Mar 5, 2023

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

A highly recommended game for fans of the genre or traditional martial arts, with a few minor issues.

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Push Square

PlayStation 5

Mar 2, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is an excellent action RPG that offers a unique and challenging take on the Soulslike formula.

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Destructoid

PlayStation 5

Mar 2, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is not for everyone, as it can be punishing and requires patience to overcome challenges. However, the unique setting, engaging gameplay, and rewarding mechanics make it worth pushing through. The reviewer hopes for more games like this from Koei Tecmo.

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Shacknews

Xbox Series X

Mar 2, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is praised for its complex combat system, challenging bosses, solid narrative, beautiful soundtrack, and great ally characters. The light performance issues and inconsistent voice performances are mentioned as drawbacks.

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Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 5

Mar 6, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is an excellent game with refreshing and unique takes on familiar formulas. It falls short of reaching the heights of Nioh 2, but still offers a challenging and rewarding combat system set in the dramatic backdrop of the Three Kingdoms.

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Game Informer

PlayStation 5

Mar 2, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a finely honed delight that induces trance-like focus and euphoric moments of victory.

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Softpedia

PlayStation 5

Mar 9, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is recommended for hardcore players who enjoy games like Nioh. It offers interesting new mechanics and is easier than previous Team NINJA titles.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 5

Mar 2, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a superbly fun action RPG with engaging combat and rewarding exploration. However, it suffers from repetitive gameplay structure and irritating flag-finding. The voice acting is also cringey at times.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Mar 13, 2023

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

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty is a fast, frenetic, and frustrating game. The boss battles and combat are up there with Team Ninja's best. The game is tightly designed and the developer's willingness to experiment with the formula creates a unique spin on the soulslike genre. However, it may be the roughest Soulslike to get to grips with yet.

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GameStar

Mar 2, 2023

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

The reviewer enjoyed the gameplay changes and found the story interesting despite not being familiar with Chinese folklore.

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