Predecessor

The graphics of the game have received mixed reviews, with many praising the stunning visuals and smooth performance, particularly in comparison to other MOBAs. However, some players criticize the graphics as inconsistent or inferior to the original Paragon, citing issues like blurriness and a cluttered UI. Overall, while the graphics are often highlighted as a strong point, there are calls for further refinement and optimization.

The optimization of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players praising its smooth performance and graphics, particularly on mid-range systems, while others report significant issues such as stuttering, crashes, and poor controller support. Many users express that the game requires further optimization and balancing, especially after updates, indicating that while it shows potential, it still has a long way to go in terms of stability and performance improvements. Overall, the game is seen as a work in progress, with some players enjoying the experience while others recommend waiting for further enhancements before diving in.

The monetization strategies of the game have drawn significant criticism, with many players labeling it as a "cash grab" due to overpriced bundles, low-quality cosmetics, and a lack of refund options for microtransactions. While some reviewers acknowledge that the developers are attempting to address these issues, the overall sentiment is that the monetization practices are predatory and exploitative, particularly in a free-to-play model that targets high-spending players. Despite these concerns, a few players express hope that the game will improve and prioritize gameplay over aggressive monetization in the future.

The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting frequent freezes, crashes, and various bugs that disrupt gameplay. While some users have experienced smooth performance and minimal issues, others have faced significant problems, particularly with matchmaking and character abilities. Overall, the game appears to be in a state of early access, with ongoing stability concerns that need to be addressed for a more polished experience.

Players express significant frustration with the grinding mechanics in the game, describing the farming process as tedious and unbalanced, often leading to feelings of futility. Many feel that the time investment required to progress is excessive, with some suggesting that the game intentionally makes it difficult to gain an advantage through farming. While some players appreciate the complexity of character abilities and the potential for rewarding gameplay, the overall sentiment leans towards grinding being a major drawback that detracts from the enjoyment of the game.

The music in the game is generally perceived as lackluster and generic, failing to enhance the gaming experience or immerse players in the world. While some users appreciate the main menu theme, many criticize the overall soundtrack for being uninspiring and insufficient, often describing it as dry or missing entirely. Overall, there is a strong desire for improvements in both the music and sound design to create a more engaging atmosphere.

Character development in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising the character design and graphics as stunning and engaging, while others criticize certain designs as unappealing or overly influenced by pop culture aesthetics. Players appreciate the unique gameplay mechanics and character balance, but some feel that the personalities and lore of the characters need further development. Overall, while the visual aspects are generally well-received, there are significant concerns regarding the depth and richness of character narratives.

The story aspect of the game has received mixed feedback, with some players noting a lack of depth and visual storytelling, particularly in character backstories like that of Shinbi, which have become more generic. While the game is a revival of the original Paragon and has nostalgic value, many feel that it currently lacks a compelling narrative, focusing instead on gameplay mechanics. Overall, players express hope for future developments that may enhance the storytelling experience.

The humor in the game is a mixed bag, with players finding amusement in both the game's bugs and the chaotic nature of the community, including toxic interactions and trolling. While some moments, especially in five-stack matches, lead to memorable and funny experiences, the overall playerbase behavior often leans towards negativity, which can ironically be entertaining. Additionally, the game's AI chat monitor adds a layer of humor, showcasing the absurdity of certain interactions.

Players express a deep emotional connection to the game, often reminiscing about their love for Paragon and feeling a mix of joy and heartbreak at its return. Many describe the experience as nostalgic, with some even shedding tears of happiness, while others highlight the emotional instability caused by the competitive nature of the game. Overall, the emotional impact is significant, with players feeling both elation and frustration as they navigate the game's highs and lows.

The game's atmosphere is praised for its teamwork dynamics and beautiful map design, making it a strong alternative for players missing NHL hockey on PC. However, some users feel let down by the overall quality and nostalgic expectations, describing a mix of enjoyment and disappointment in the game's ambiance.

Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability, largely due to its diverse character roster that adds depth and variety to gameplay. However, some players feel that the addition of more playable characters could enhance the experience further.