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MONSTER

WrestleQuest

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of WrestleQuest
Item: WrestleQuest
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Fighting, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableAug 22, 2023

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

DeveloperMega Cat Studios

Overview

In WrestleQuest, players assume the role of a young wrestling hopeful, on his quest to become one of the all-time greats while he powerbombs, slams, and suplexes his way to the top. Inspired by icons like the legendary "Macho Man" Randy Savage, our hero must immerse himself in the world of professional wrestling, which will not only test his athleticism but his will and conscience too.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest delivers a nostalgic and charming narrative featuring aspiring wrestler Randy Santos and real-life legends like Macho Man Randy Savage, praised for its engaging characters. However, critics cite significant pacing issues, disjointed storytelling, and lack of character attachment that undermine the experience. While some players enjoy its unique premise, others find it confusing and dull, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of WrestleQuest has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its nostalgic appeal and engaging characters. Reviewers like CGMagazine highlight the compelling narrative centered around Randy Santos, an aspiring wrestler, and his journey to emulate his idol, Macho Man Randy Savage. Many critics, such as We Got This Covered and RPG Fan, noted the emotional depth and charm of the story, emphasizing the endearing nature of the characters and their journeys. The incorporation of real-life wrestling legends and homages to wrestling culture has also been appreciated, with GameCritics and IGN recognizing the game's ability to weave these elements into its narrative, making it enjoyable even for those who may not be wrestling aficionados. However, the game's story is not without its flaws, as numerous critics pointed out significant issues with pacing, coherence, and depth. Game Informer and GameGrin criticized the narrative for being chaotic and disjointed, with a lack of attachment to characters, which detracted from the overall experience. Gamers' Temple found the dialogue to be dull and sleep-inducing, while WellPlayed noted that the story was overly long and confusing, leading to difficulty in understanding the characters' roles. This sentiment was echoed by several others, including New Game Network and Digital Chumps, who mentioned that the narrative structure felt choppy and lacked the necessary depth for player connection. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while WrestleQuest offers a unique and entertaining premise with nostalgic elements, it struggles with execution. The dual protagonist narrative, while ambitious, often leads to a disjointed experience, as noted by Cultured Vultures and GameSpot. Despite its charming characters and engaging moments, the story's pacing issues and occasional incoherence hinder its potential, leaving some players feeling indifferent or bored, as highlighted by Gamereactor UK and Gamers' Temple. Ultimately, WrestleQuest presents a mixed bag of storytelling that resonates well with some players but fails to fully captivate others.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest blends turn-based RPGs with wrestling mechanics, impressing some critics with its unique combat features and accessible tutorials. However, it suffers from repetitiveness and a lack of depth, leading to tedious gameplay and inconsistent difficulty. While nostalgic for RPG and wrestling fans, its execution falls short, limiting broader appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

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

The gameplay of WrestleQuest has garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with several highlighting its unique blend of turn-based RPG mechanics and wrestling elements as a notable strength. Critics like CGMagazine and GamingBolt praise the incorporation of wrestling mechanics, such as unique attack methods and the hype meter, which adds depth and strategy to the combat system. The game’s ability to allow players to execute signature moves and tag-team attacks is seen as an enjoyable twist on traditional RPG gameplay. Additionally, the tutorial has been noted for effectively teaching players about combat and wrestling terminology, making it accessible for newcomers to both genres. The exhibition matches were also highlighted by GameCritics as a particular highlight, showcasing the fun potential of the game's mechanics in a more engaging format. However, the criticisms surrounding WrestleQuest's gameplay are significant and often revolve around issues of repetition and lack of depth. App Trigger and GameSpot point out that the combat can feel tedious, with repetitive quick-time events and a lack of strategic options. Critics like GameGrin and COGconnected echo these sentiments, noting that the combat system lacks variety and can lead to frustrating experiences during battles. The need for certain mechanics, such as pinning enemies, has been described as unnecessary by GameCritics, while others have mentioned inconsistent difficulty levels that can disrupt the flow of gameplay. Furthermore, some critics, including TheSixthAxis and WellPlayed, have expressed that the quests often boil down to simple tasks, detracting from the overall engagement of the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of WrestleQuest is that while it has a solid foundation and some enjoyable mechanics, it is marred by repetitiveness and a lack of depth. Critics like Shacknews and Twinfinite have acknowledged that the inventive combat system and boss fights add excitement, yet many reviewers have pointed out that the gameplay loop can become tedious and frustrating. The game’s attempt to combine classic RPG elements with wrestling flair has potential, but the execution leaves room for improvement, as highlighted by various reviewers across platforms. Ultimately, WrestleQuest presents a nostalgic experience for fans of both RPGs and wrestling, but its shortcomings in gameplay mechanics may hinder its appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest's graphics earn praise for their nostalgic pixel art and vibrant visuals that evoke classic wrestling and RPG vibes, capturing the charm of the '80s and '90s. Critics love the fun character designs and bright environments, but some note issues like visual quirks, lack of engaging town activities, and reused assets. Overall, the visuals enhance the game's playful homage to wrestling, despite areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of WrestleQuest is largely positive, with many critics praising its nostalgic pixel art style that pays homage to classic wrestling and RPG aesthetics. App Trigger highlights the fun 16-bit throwback sprites, while GameCritics appreciates the aesthetic that captures the essence of the wrestling scene from the '80s and '90s. CGMagazine and GamingTrend commend the beautiful pixel artwork and vibrant environments, noting that the visuals enhance the game's nostalgic feel. Critics like GameSpot and God is a Geek emphasize the bright and colorful visuals, which contribute to the game's fun personality, while Gamers' Temple and Worth Playing mention the detailed character models and animations that evoke the charm of action figures and toys. However, several reviewers pointed out notable drawbacks in the visual design. GameCritics mentioned visual quirks and incorrect information onscreen, indicating some inconsistencies in presentation. IGN criticized the underwhelming nature of towns, suggesting a lack of engaging activities that detracts from the overall experience. Additionally, Noisy Pixel pointed out issues with reused assets in dungeon designs, which can lead to confusion. Critics like Digital Chumps noted visual artifacts and inconsistent frame rates on the Nintendo Switch version, which may impact gameplay, while Cultured Vultures remarked on the mini-map's shortcomings and frustrating character movement. Despite these negatives, the overall consensus among critics is that WrestleQuest successfully captures a whimsical and charming aesthetic that resonates with fans of wrestling and retro gaming. The game's vibrant visuals and nostalgic pixel art effectively evoke a sense of playfulness, as noted by TheSixthAxis and GamingBolt, who appreciate the creative designs of environments and characters. While some critics highlighted areas for improvement, such as the need for more engaging content in certain regions, the majority agree that the visual design contributes significantly to the game's appeal, making it a delightful homage to the wrestling genre's glory days.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest's sound design and music receive mixed reviews—critics praise its nostalgic soundtrack and immersive sound effects, but many slam muddled audio and repetitive voice lines. While some enjoy the variety and wrestling-themed tunes, others find flaws in clarity and relevance. The game shows potential but needs refinement for a better auditory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of WrestleQuest have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting several positive aspects of the game's audio experience. For instance, CGMagazine lauds the "dynamite soundtrack" that enhances the nostalgic atmosphere of the game, effectively complementing its wrestling theme. RPG Fan echoes this sentiment, noting that the soundtrack showcases a variety of music genres and improves as the game progresses, alongside excellent sound effects that enhance the overall immersion. Critics like Worth Playing also appreciate the inclusion of voice clips from famous wrestlers, which fit the tone of the game, and KeenGamer points out that the background music complements the gameplay without overwhelming it, contributing positively to the overall experience. However, the reviews also reveal significant criticisms regarding the sound design and music. App Trigger highlights muddled sound design that makes it challenging to hear character voices over the music and ambient noises. Several critics, including Gamereactor UK and God is a Geek, express frustration with the voice lines, describing them as annoying and lacking context, with God is a Geek specifically mentioning that the soundbites do not match the on-screen action. New Game Network mentions that while the music has variety, it fails to evoke classic wrestling themes, and Noisy Pixel points out the repetitiveness of pre-recorded voice lines, which detracts from the overall experience. Hardcore Gamer adds to the critique by stating that while the sound effects are fantastic, the soundtrack itself is weak. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate the game's soundtrack and sound effects and those who find significant flaws in the voice work and sound design. While RPG Fan and CGMagazine commend the music and sound effects, others like App Trigger and Noisy Pixel highlight issues with clarity and repetitiveness. This dichotomy suggests that while WrestleQuest has the potential to deliver an engaging auditory experience, it ultimately falls short in certain areas, particularly concerning voice lines and the overall sound mix. The varying opinions indicate that the sound design and music could benefit from further refinement to achieve a more cohesive and enjoyable experience for players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest's voice acting is a mixed bag; while some critics appreciate its nostalgic charm and alignment with the game's tone, major flaws overshadow these positives. Sound design issues make character voices hard to understand, and repetitive lines, especially from Macho Man, become grating. Critics describe the voiceovers as "dorky" and lacking authenticity, leading to a frustrating experience that detracts from immersion. Overall, the game's homage to wrestling legends misses the mark due to limited execution and coherence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

The voice acting in WrestleQuest has garnered a mix of opinions, with some critics noting positive aspects. GameGrin highlights that the voice lines during matches evoke the essence of the legendary Macho Man, suggesting that there is a nostalgic charm in the character portrayals. Similarly, Worth Playing acknowledges that while there is no comprehensive voice acting, the voice clips that are present align well with the game's overall tone, indicating a degree of effectiveness in the limited voice work. Hardcore Gamer also points out that some voice clips are specifically tailored for the legends and characters, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience, albeit in a limited capacity. However, the criticisms surrounding the voice acting are more pronounced. Critics like App Trigger express frustration with the sound design, which makes it difficult to comprehend character voices during battles. This sentiment is echoed by Noisy Pixel, who finds the repetition of a few pre-recorded lines—particularly Randy Savage's voice—grating over time. Gamereactor UK goes further, describing the voices as "dorky and bad," while Gaming Nexus and TheXboxHub both criticize the voiceovers for lacking authenticity and relevance to the on-screen dialogue, suggesting a disconnect that detracts from the overall immersion of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while WrestleQuest attempts to pay homage to wrestling legends through its voice acting, it falls short in execution. The limited and repetitive nature of the voice clips, combined with sound design issues, leads to a frustrating experience for players. Critics like App Trigger and Noisy Pixel highlight these shortcomings, while others like Gamereactor UK and TheXboxHub emphasize the lack of coherence between the voiceovers and the gameplay context. As a result, the voice acting in WrestleQuest appears to be a mixed bag, with some moments of charm overshadowed by significant flaws that impact the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest's technical performance is a mixed bag across platforms. While PS5 and PC versions show some improvement post-launch, serious issues like game-breaking bugs, dodgy save systems, and long loading times persist. Critics across the board highlight significant stability problems, especially on Nintendo Switch, where crashes and visual glitches are common. Overall, WrestleQuest struggles with technical flaws that overshadow its potential, leaving players wanting a more polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The technical performance of WrestleQuest varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, while reviewers like GameCritics acknowledged the presence of technical issues, they also mentioned that a critical autosave glitch had been patched, indicating responsiveness from the developers. This suggests that there is an effort to improve the game post-launch. On PC, RPG Fan noted that while there were some mild slowdowns during visually busy cutscenes, they did not detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. This points to a level of stability that some players may find acceptable. Additionally, while Game Informer pointed out navigation challenges due to a lack of a readily accessible map, they did not emphasize these issues as game-breaking, suggesting that the core experience remains intact for many players. However, the negatives associated with WrestleQuest's technical performance are pronounced across all platforms. On the PS5, App Trigger and TheSixthAxis highlighted serious issues, including game-breaking bugs, freezes, a dodgy save system, and lengthy loading screens. This paints a picture of a game that struggles significantly with stability on this console. For PC, multiple critics, including GameSpot and GamingTrend, reported various technical issues, such as save progress problems, bugs requiring reloads, and environmental collisions. These concerns indicate that the PC version also suffers from substantial technical shortcomings. On the Nintendo Switch, Digital Chumps and Nintendo Life both reported crashes, visual artifacts, and health bar issues, suggesting the game is not well-optimized for this platform either. Overall, the consensus among critics across all platforms is that WrestleQuest is plagued by a variety of technical issues that detract from the gameplay experience. While some reviewers noted that patches have addressed certain problems, the presence of game-breaking bugs, save system flaws, and performance inconsistencies remains a major concern. Critics like GameSpot and App Trigger emphasized the need for further optimization and stability improvements, indicating that until these issues are resolved, the game may not meet the expectations of players seeking a polished experience. The mixed reviews suggest that while there is potential in WrestleQuest, its current technical performance leaves much to be desired across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

WrestleQuest offers potential replayability with diverse character alignments, extensive content, and a karma system. However, critics warn of bugs, slow combat, and lackluster story choices that could dampen motivation for multiple playthroughs. The game's replay value hinges on personal tolerance for its flaws, leaving opinions mixed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

13%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of WrestleQuest present a mixed yet intriguing perspective. Several critics highlight the potential for replayability through various gameplay mechanics. For instance, We Got This Covered notes the opportunity to play as different character alignments, such as a Face versus a Heel, which could lead to varied experiences and outcomes. Additionally, Gamers' Temple emphasizes the game's extensive content, including side quests and hidden items, suggesting that fans of JRPGs might find the game worth revisiting due to its long playtime and depth. Digital Chumps also mentions a karma system that can influence gameplay, hinting at further replay opportunities, albeit without detailed elaboration. On the flip side, several reviewers express concerns that may hinder the game's replay value. App Trigger points out that bugs and combat issues detract from the overall experience, making it challenging to stay engaged until the end. Similarly, Worth Playing mentions that the slow pace of combat could discourage players from wanting to replay the game. Noisy Pixel's perspective reflects a lack of desire to explore different story branches, indicating that while there are choices to be made, they may not be compelling enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. Twinfinite adds that while there are opportunities for exploration, some areas feel tedious, which could further impact the game's overall replay value. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while WrestleQuest has elements that could encourage replayability, such as character choices and extensive content, significant drawbacks exist that may deter players from returning. The mixed feelings about combat pacing, bugs, and the overall engagement level indicate that while some players might appreciate the depth and variety, others may find the experience lacking in motivation to replay. Critics like Noisy Pixel and App Trigger highlight these concerns, suggesting that the game's replay value may ultimately depend on individual player preferences and tolerance for its flaws.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

WrestleQuest has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, particularly for its nostalgic homage to the wrestling scene of the '80s and '90s and its unique blend of RPG elements. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and CGMagazine, highlight the game as a heartfelt love letter to wrestling, praising its charming visuals, engaging story, and the clever writing that resonates with fans of both wrestling and classic RPGs. TheSixthAxis and Shacknews commend the game for its fun pro-wrestling action and intuitive combat, while Hardcore Gamer appreciates it as a fantastic pick for both pro wrestling and JRPG enthusiasts. Overall, the vibrant atmosphere and quirky characters have been recognized as standout features that contribute to the game's charm. However, despite its many strengths, WrestleQuest is not without its flaws. Critics frequently point out significant technical issues, slow pacing, and a bloated gameplay experience that detracts from the overall enjoyment. GameSpot and IGN mention frustrations stemming from combat mechanics and navigation, while Game Informer notes a lack of refinement in certain systems that prevent the game from reaching its full potential. Additionally, several reviews, including those from DualShockers and WellPlayed, highlight repetitive gameplay and balancing issues that can make the experience feel tedious. Critics like Cultured Vultures and God is a Geek express that while the writing and humor are enjoyable, the gameplay itself is often only passable. The overall consensus among critics is that WrestleQuest is a charming and nostalgic experience primarily aimed at dedicated wrestling fans, but it struggles with execution and technical performance. While many reviewers, such as GameCritics and GamingBolt, appreciate the game's unique approach and fan service, they also caution that its flaws may alienate casual players or those unfamiliar with the wrestling genre. Ultimately, WrestleQuest is seen as a game with great potential that, despite its shortcomings, can still provide enjoyment for those willing to embrace its quirks and nostalgic appeal.

TL;DR

WrestleQuest is a nostalgic love letter to '80s and '90s wrestling, blending RPG elements with charming visuals and engaging storytelling, earning praise from critics and fans alike. However, it suffers from technical issues, slow pacing, and repetitive gameplay that can frustrate players. While it shines for dedicated wrestling enthusiasts, its flaws may deter newcomers, making it a mixed but enjoyable experience for those who appreciate its quirks.

MONSTER

Reviews

53 reviews found

100

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2023