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MONSTER

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World
Item: Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableMay 28, 2021

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch

DeveloperArtdink

Overview

Asha, the warrior protagonist of the game, is involved in a serious incident that will affect the survival of her world. Our green-haired heroine doesn’t have to save the world all alone, and sets off on an adventure with her cute flying friend, the blue Pepelogoo. Asha and the Pepelogoo have to work together to become the heroes the world needs them to be. The road ahead is long - will they be able to save their world?

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World charms with nostalgia and a simple quest to save elemental spirits, appealing to fans of the original Monster World 4. Critics praise its colorful design and whimsical elements but slam the story for lacking depth and character development, calling it simplistic and outdated. While it's a delightful adventure, the narrative fails to engage modern players, making it feel more like a backdrop for gameplay than a compelling story. Overall, a nostalgic ride, but a missed opportunity for a richer narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World has received some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its nostalgic appeal and the simplicity of its premise. Many reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and Nintendo Life, appreciate how the narrative ties back to the original Monster World 4, adding a layer of nostalgia for long-time fans. The light-hearted and straightforward nature of Asha's quest to save elemental spirits is seen as fitting for a colorful platformer, as noted by IGN and Noisy Pixel, who emphasize that the narrative complements the gameplay without overwhelming it. Additionally, the inclusion of charming character designs and the whimsical companion Pepelogoo have been highlighted by critics like COGconnected and Gamer Escape, contributing to a delightful gaming experience. However, the majority of critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the story's depth and execution. Reviewers like App Trigger and The Games Machine criticize the narrative for its lack of character development and complexity, describing it as simplistic and reminiscent of gaming norms from the 1990s. Player 2 and Vandal echo these sentiments, noting the reliance on arbitrary challenges and a basic framework that serves primarily as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a compelling story. Furthermore, several critics, including PLAY! Zine and Gamer Escape, have mentioned issues with dialogue quality and awkward translations, which detract from the overall narrative experience. The overall consensus among critics is that while the story of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is serviceable and nostalgic, it ultimately lacks the depth and engagement that modern players might expect. The narrative is often described as a basic framework for gameplay, with many reviewers, such as Destructoid and TrueGaming, noting that it doesn't significantly enhance the player's experience. Despite its charming elements and the appeal of its protagonist, Asha, the story is generally viewed as a missed opportunity to provide a richer narrative, as highlighted by critics like Gameblog.fr and Gaming Nexus. In summary, while the game succeeds in delivering a light-hearted adventure, it falls short in delivering a compelling and immersive story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

"Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World" charms with nostalgia and classic platforming but divides critics. While some praise its faithful mechanics and engaging companion system, many slam it for simplistic, outdated gameplay, clunky controls, and linear design. It caters to newcomers but may frustrate veterans seeking depth and challenge, ultimately falling short of modern expectations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

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

In analyzing the gameplay of "Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World," it is evident that several critics appreciate the game's nostalgic charm and its adherence to classic platforming mechanics. Many reviewers, such as NintendoWorldReport and Atomix, highlight the game's faithfulness to its predecessor, offering a blend of platforming and light RPG elements that evoke fond memories of the original titles. Critics like Push Square commend the combination of traditional RPG elements with the introduction of the companion character Pepelogoo, which adds versatility to both combat and puzzle-solving. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and GameSpew, note that the gameplay is fast-paced and engaging, with responsive controls and a variety of environments that keep the experience enjoyable. However, the gameplay also faces significant criticism from numerous reviewers who describe it as simplistic and outdated. IGN's multiple reviews emphasize the frustration stemming from limited moves and mechanics that rely heavily on backtracking and rote memorization. Critics like God is a Geek and Gameblog.fr describe the platforming as archaic and tiresome, while others, such as KeenGamer and Siliconera, point out the clunky controls and lack of modern conveniences, which can detract from the overall experience. Many reviewers express disappointment in the game's level design, describing it as linear and uninteresting, with repetitive enemy attack patterns that fail to provide a satisfying challenge. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic elements and those who find the gameplay lacking in depth and innovation. While some, like Vandal and LevelUp, acknowledge the game's accessibility and enjoyment, others, such as TheSixthAxis and IGN, argue that it feels dated and uninspired. The gameplay is described as a straightforward experience that may appeal to newcomers but could leave veteran players wanting more complexity and challenge. Ultimately, "Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World" seems to cater to a specific audience, balancing nostalgia with modern expectations, but ultimately falling short in delivering a fully engaging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World impresses with vibrant colors and charming designs, earning praise for its cel-shaded visuals and lively animations. However, critics argue the graphics are inconsistent, with bland environments and simplistic enemy designs detracting from the experience. While some celebrate its update of a classic, many feel it fails to capture the original's charm due to repetitive and uninspired visuals. Overall, it's a mixed bag—visually appealing yet ultimately lacking depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The graphics and visual design of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World have garnered a mix of praise from several critics, particularly for their vibrant colors and charming character designs. Reviewers such as Nintendo Life and Push Square highlighted the game's eye-catching visuals, noting how the cel-shaded style adds a modern twist while maintaining the essence of the original. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Malditos Nerds appreciated the lively animations and the overall aesthetic, describing the environments as colorful and appealing, which enhances the game's whimsical nature. Additionally, Switch Player emphasized the high-definition graphics that breathe new life into the game, showcasing how it can be viewed as a successful update of a classic title. However, despite the positives, numerous critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the game's visual presentation. Many reviews, including those from Nintendo Enthusiast and IGN, criticized the graphics for being inconsistent, with some environments appearing bland and lacking detail. TrueGaming noted that enemy designs were overly simplistic, while Destructoid echoed similar sentiments regarding the repetitiveness of the backgrounds. Critics like App Trigger and GameCritics remarked that the visual style often felt generic and uninspired, detracting from the overall experience. This sentiment was further reinforced by IGN Italia, who mentioned that the simplistic backgrounds and stuttering issues negatively impacted the visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided reception regarding the graphics and visual design of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World. While many appreciated the vibrant colors and charming character designs, a significant number of reviewers, including Gameblog.fr and Gamer Escape, expressed disappointment with the lack of detail and depth in the environments, suggesting that the visuals do not fully honor the charm of the original game. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Vandal acknowledged the game's appeal but highlighted performance issues and repetitiveness as detractors. In summary, while the game succeeds in certain aspects of visual appeal, it ultimately falls short in delivering a consistently engaging graphical experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World's sound design and music earn praise for modernizing the nostalgic soundtrack, with critics highlighting enhanced instrumentation and charming themes. However, repetition and some underwhelming sound effects detract from the experience. While many reviewers enjoyed the refreshed audio, concerns linger about its memorability and consistency. Overall, the game successfully appeals to both newcomers and series fans, but could use further audio refinement for a truly standout experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World have received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the enhancements made to the original soundtrack while maintaining its nostalgic charm. Reviewers like Atomix praised the modernized music for enhancing the overall experience, while Gamer Escape noted the charm of the catchy main theme and the addition of Japanese voice acting, which adds depth to the game. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and Nintendo Life emphasized the delightful nature of the remastered tracks, with the latter noting a wider variety of instrumentation that enriches the gameplay experience. Overall, many reviewers appreciated the effort to reorchestrate classic melodies, contributing positively to the game's atmosphere as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and Hardcore Gamer. However, not all feedback was entirely favorable, with several critics pointing out issues of repetitiveness in the soundtrack. IGN and IGN France specifically noted that while the soundtrack features many renditions of the main theme, it can become repetitive during longer levels, detracting from the overall experience. Destructoid described the music as decent but not memorable, indicating that it serves more as a backdrop rather than a standout feature. Additionally, some critics, like KeenGamer, expressed frustration with specific sound effects, such as an annoying whistling sound, which detracted from the overall audio experience. This sentiment was echoed by Impulsegamer, who felt the soundtrack was pedestrian compared to the game's visual ambiance. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World successfully modernizes its sound design and music, enhancing the nostalgic elements of the original game, it faces criticism for repetitiveness and inconsistency in sound effects. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe appreciated the infectious and cheerful nature of the soundtrack, while others pointed out shortcomings that hindered the audio experience. Ultimately, the game strikes a balance, appealing to both new players and fans of the original series, but it could benefit from further refinement in its audio design to elevate the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World's Japanese voice acting is largely praised for adding depth and matching the anime aesthetic, enhancing character engagement. However, criticisms about inconsistent NPC dialogue, minimal voice performances, and accessibility for players preferring English dubs create a mixed reception. Overall, while many enjoy the immersive feel, some players may be left wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The voice acting in Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World has received a mixed but generally positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the inclusion of Japanese voice acting. Reviewers like Atomix and But Why Tho? highlighted that the new Japanese voice acting adds depth and makes characters more lovable, enhancing the overall storytelling experience. Additionally, critics such as Universo Nintendo and Vandal noted that the voice performances align well with the game's anime aesthetic, contributing positively to the atmosphere. Critics on the Nintendo Switch platform, in particular, appreciated the feel-good atmosphere created by the Japanese voice acting, as mentioned by Switch Player, indicating that it resonates well with the audience despite the language barrier. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting that detract from the overall experience. App Trigger pointed out that NPCs speaking in broken English can be jarring and detracts from immersion. Worth Playing echoed concerns about inconsistency in the use of full speech versus guttural noises, which can disrupt the flow of the narrative. Additionally, Gamer Escape's observation that the game features minimal voice acting, primarily consisting of simple sounds, suggests that the lack of depth in vocal performances may leave some players wanting more. Critics like LevelUp also noted that while the Japanese voice acting might appeal to some, it could be a drawback for players expecting English dubs. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the Japanese voice acting is a commendable addition that enhances character engagement and aligns with the game's aesthetic, there are significant inconsistencies and limitations that some players may find off-putting. The mixed reviews indicate a divide among players regarding their preferences for language and voice quality. While many critics, such as Shindig and Nintenderos, appreciated the character depth provided by the Japanese performances, others raised valid concerns about the overall execution and accessibility of the voice acting, ultimately leading to a nuanced reception of this aspect of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World shines on PS4 with solid performance and minimal bugs, but struggles on Nintendo Switch with frame rate drops and sluggishness. While the PC version is technically sound, it has quirks that need fixing. Overall, the game’s experience varies widely by platform—PS4 is a win, Switch is a mixed bag.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

69%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The technical performance of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World varies across platforms, with the PlayStation 4 version generally receiving positive feedback. Reviewers like MGG Spain highlighted that the game maintains a constant frame rate without slowdowns, contributing positively to the overall experience. Similarly, PlayStation LifeStyle described the game as an "almost bug-free experience," indicating good stability. Critics from Atomix and LevelUp acknowledged the smooth performance at 1080p and noted minor issues with command detection, but overall, the PS4 version is seen as a solid experience. The Nintendo Switch version also has its merits; for instance, Nintenderos mentioned that it performs well and supports various play modes, while SpazioGames praised the overall optimization despite rare frame drops. On the downside, the PS4 version is not without its flaws. Critics like App Trigger and Jeuxvideo.com pointed out issues with a cumbersome manual save system and typos, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. Video Chums noted occasional graphical and auditory stutters, although they are infrequent. The Nintendo Switch version, however, faced more significant criticism, with multiple reviewers like CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral reporting frame rate drops and sluggish performance, particularly in handheld mode. IGN France and Player 2 echoed these sentiments, indicating that the game struggles to maintain a stable frame rate, which detracts from the overall experience. The PC version, while praised for its solid technical aspects by Ragequit.gr, has a specific issue with puzzle doors not functioning properly at high framerates, as noted by PC Invasion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the PS4 version of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is generally well-received for its stable performance and few technical issues, the Nintendo Switch version suffers from significant performance problems, particularly with frame rate and stability. Critics like Metro GameCentral and Gameblog.fr emphasized the negative impact of these issues on gameplay, while the PC version, despite its solid technical foundation, has specific quirks that need addressing. Thus, while the game shows promise across platforms, the experience can vary significantly depending on the system used.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World has mixed reviews on replay value. While some critics appreciate its nostalgic charm, engaging platforming, and opportunities for completionists, many feel the game suffers from monotonous gameplay, backtracking, and limited content. The consensus leans towards the idea that its short length and linear design make replaying it less appealing, with most players unlikely to return after finishing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

73%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World reflect a few positive aspects that some critics appreciate. For instance, Gamer Escape notes that the game’s relatively short completion time of 4-5 hours may entice players to revisit the original game, suggesting a nostalgic connection that can enhance replay value. Similarly, MGG Spain highlights the engaging platforming elements and exploration opportunities that can motivate players to replay certain sections. Additionally, Nintendo Life mentions that the ability to revisit areas to collect missed items and complete subquests adds a layer of replayability, which may appeal to completionists looking for 100% achievements. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's limited replay value. Destructoid points out the monotonous gameplay and backtracking, which detracts from the appeal of repeated playthroughs. Atomix and Worth Playing echo this sentiment, indicating that the game lacks significant extra content or features that would typically enhance replayability. Moreover, PlayStation Universe notes that once a boss is defeated, players cannot return to previous areas, which restricts exploration and diminishes the incentive to replay. Critics like Everyeye.it and Malditos Nerds also emphasize the straightforward design and lack of challenging elements, suggesting that these factors contribute to a less engaging experience upon revisiting the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World has limited replay value, primarily due to its short length and linear structure. While some reviewers, such as C0Gconnected, claim that there is replay value to be found, particularly for completionists, the majority of opinions lean towards the notion that the game does not provide enough incentives for players to return after finishing it. Critics like Vandal and Screen Rant summarize the general sentiment by highlighting the game's brevity and lack of additional content, which ultimately leads to a perception that replaying the game may not be worthwhile for many players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

26%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World" showcases a blend of nostalgia and charm, with several critics acknowledging its appeal to fans of the original game. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Vandal highlight the game's lively and charming nature, suggesting that it successfully revitalizes a classic title. Many critics, including Gamer Escape and PlayStation Country, emphasize that the remake offers enjoyable gameplay, appealing visuals, and a nostalgic experience for those familiar with the franchise. Additionally, some reviewers, such as COGconnected and Pure Nintendo, commend the game's endearing protagonists and polished presentation, indicating that it can be a fun introduction for newcomers to the genre. However, the criticisms of "Asha in Monster World" are significant and recurring. A large number of reviewers describe the game as a dated remake that fails to innovate or modernize the original experience. Critics like App Trigger and IGN France label it a "lazy remake," while others, such as TrueGaming and TheSixthAxis, express disappointment in its outdated design choices and simplistic gameplay. Many reviews point to a lack of depth and engagement compared to its predecessors, with Gameblog.fr and Player 2 noting that it feels like a missed opportunity. Furthermore, the game's short length and limited replay value are common points of contention, with TouchArcade and Screen Rant highlighting that it may not justify its price for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide between those who appreciate the nostalgic charm of "Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World" and those who feel it falls short of modern gaming standards. While some reviewers, like Hardcore Gamer, laud it as one of the finest 2D platformers available, others argue that it lacks the necessary improvements and innovation expected from a remake. The game is generally recommended for dedicated fans of the original and those with a fondness for retro platformers, but many critics caution modern players about its dated mechanics and limited content. Overall, "Asha in Monster World" serves as a nostalgic trip for some, while others view it as a missed opportunity to elevate a classic to contemporary standards.

TL;DR

"Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World" blends nostalgia with charm, winning over some fans with its lively presentation and enjoyable gameplay. However, many critics slam it as a "lazy remake" that fails to innovate, showcasing outdated design and simplistic mechanics. While it offers a nostalgic trip for devoted fans, others warn modern players of its short length and limited replayability, making it a missed opportunity for a true modernization of the classic.

MONSTER

Reviews

105 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 4

May 28, 2021

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

The game is described as a nostalgic good time with reimagined visuals that enhance the experience. It is recommended for RPG and platformer fans, as well as newcomers to the series.

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Pure Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Jun 2, 2021

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

The game is described as polished and highly enjoyable.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 4

May 30, 2021

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

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is a superbly playable RPG platformer hybrid that successfully remakes a classic, appealing to both new and returning players.

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Universo Nintendo

Nintendo Switch

Jun 9, 2021

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

Overall, 'Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World' is a nostalgic and enjoyable platformer that successfully captures the essence of its predecessor, despite some technical flaws.

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LevelUp

PlayStation 4

Jun 2, 2021

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

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is a solid and faithful remake that appeals to both new players and fans of the original, though it could benefit from additional content.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 4

May 21, 2021

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

The game is described as a lovely experience with tight gameplay, adorable visuals, and rewarding upgrades, but it could use more gameplay mechanics and some elements haven't aged well.

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Hardcore Gamer

Nintendo Switch

Jun 1, 2021

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

The review praises Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World as one of the finest 2D side-scrolling platformers on the market and the best remake of a classic game in quite some time.

Push Square

PlayStation 4

May 29, 2021

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

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is a fantastic remake. While the save system feels as though it is painfully stuck in the past, every other aspect of the game is lovingly remade. For newcomers and longtime fans alike, this is a great adventure that you will certainly fall in love with.

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Jun 1, 2021

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

Wonder Boy: Asha in Monster World is a charming remake that successfully modernizes a classic title, making it a worthy addition for fans and newcomers alike.

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GameSpew

PlayStation 4

Jun 3, 2021

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

Engaging gameplay, worth the time, but better side-scrolling adventure games exist.

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