MONARK

The gameplay is characterized by a mix of interesting mechanics and a repetitive core loop, where players often find themselves engaging in similar battles and puzzles throughout the game. While the turn-based strategy elements and unique features like resonance and awakening add depth, many players feel that the execution falls short, leading to a grindy experience that can detract from the overall enjoyment. Despite these issues, the engaging story and character development keep players invested, though some recommend waiting for a sale before diving in.

The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising its quality and ability to enhance the gameplay experience, particularly during boss battles where the tracks are described as intense and engaging. While the overall soundtrack is considered fantastic, some players noted that in-game versions of the songs are often cut and looped, which detracts slightly from the experience. Overall, the music is a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere and enjoyment.

The grinding in *Monark* is widely criticized for being tedious, repetitive, and time-consuming, often requiring players to engage in the same battles to progress. While some players appreciate the story and combat mechanics, many find the excessive grinding detracts from the overall experience, making it feel like a slog rather than an enjoyable challenge. Overall, the game demands significant patience and a willingness to grind, which may not appeal to all players.

The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while the anime-inspired art style is appealing, the overall graphical quality is underwhelming for a 2022 release. Performance issues persist even on high-end hardware, and animations are often criticized for their stiffness. Despite these shortcomings, the unique aesthetic and accompanying music are praised, suggesting that the game's strengths lie more in its narrative and artistic direction than in its visual fidelity.

Character development in the game is generally well-received, with players noting that it is both beautiful and engaging, particularly in the second act where characters become more fleshed out. However, some reviewers feel that certain aspects, such as the motivations behind character choices and their connections to the overarching themes, could have been explored more deeply. While the human characters are relatable and typical of rebellious teens, the limited customization options for the main character detract from the overall experience.

The game effectively captures major emotional moments, delivering a satisfying narrative with shocking plot twists and heartbreaking backstories. While it attempts to tackle deep themes like depression and self-doubt, some reviewers feel that the writing quality detracts from its emotional depth. Nevertheless, the emotionally-moving characters and engaging story keep players invested throughout the experience.

The game's optimization has been widely criticized, with users reporting significant stuttering and frame rate issues even on high-end hardware. While some workarounds exist, they do not fully resolve the performance problems, leading many to feel that the game feels unfinished.

The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its well-composed soundtrack and artistic design, evoking comparisons to titles like Persona 3 and Shin Megami Tensei. Reviewers appreciate the creepy and oppressive ambiance, which enhances the overall experience, while even low-fidelity cutscenes contribute a nostalgic charm reminiscent of PS1 games.

The humor in the game is hit-or-miss, with some writing and characters providing genuine laughs, while the long pauses in dialogue can create an awkward atmosphere that may be amusing in certain contexts. Overall, the comedic elements are inconsistent but can be enjoyable at times.

Users find the monetization aspect frustrating due to high prices and a lack of clear advertising regarding costs.