Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues

50%
Game Brain Score Based on 708 reviews
  • story
  • graphics
  • gameplay
Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues Game Cover
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"Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues" is a fantasy RPG that offers a rich, immersive world with deep storylines and player choice. Players can explore a fully interactive environment, complete with quests, NPCs, and crafting systems. The game also features a unique multiplayer experience, allowing players to interact and form communities within the game world.

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Reviews

50%
Audience ScoreBased on 708 reviews
gameplay18 positive mentions
story23 negative mentions
  • The game has a unique and ambitious MMORPG design that combines sandbox-style gameplay with a rich fantasy setting.
  • The community is extremely helpful and kind, creating a welcoming environment for new players.
  • The housing system is deep and customizable, allowing players to create unique living spaces and interact with the world in meaningful ways.
  • The game suffers from performance issues, with long loading times and low frame rates, making it difficult to enjoy the experience.
  • The questing system can be confusing and lacks clear direction, often requiring players to figure things out on their own.
  • Many players feel that the game is heavily focused on monetization through real money transactions, leading to a pay-to-win perception.
  • story213 mentions

    The story aspect of "Shroud of the Avatar" receives mixed reviews, with many players finding the main narrative and quest system lacking depth and coherence. While some appreciate the old-school RPG feel and the potential for player-driven storytelling, numerous complaints highlight disjointed quests, confusing dialogue, and a buggy quest journal that detracts from immersion. Overall, the game struggles to deliver a compelling and engaging storyline, often leaving players frustrated with its execution.

    • “The graphics and sound design are impressive, and the game features a deep and complex storyline with multiple paths and choices.”
    • “While only part of the plot is available in episode 1, there are novels available that have more backstory with more works anticipated.”
    • “With the talent and imagination of the Portalarium team, it is now obvious to me that SOTA is going to be a very special game indeed; with rapid enhancements over coming months to basic gameplay and mechanics, and deep, rich story expansions as it releases episodic content over months and years.”
    • “The promise of a player-driven narrative also falters, with disjointed quests and confusing dialogue choices failing to create a captivating story.”
    • “Overall it's very expensive to be great, too difficult to move, socially and politically crap, and the story is pure drivel, so just plain garbage overall for a game.”
    • “Let me be very clear on this point, I have nearly 2,000 hours on record playing this game and have completed the main storyline twice online and once offline, and it is absolutely abysmal.”
  • graphics147 mentions

    The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the charm and aesthetic appeal, while others criticize them as outdated and inconsistent, likening them to titles from over a decade ago. Many users note performance issues, such as stuttering and graphical glitches, which detract from the overall experience. Despite some improvements over time, the consensus suggests that the graphics do not meet modern standards, leaving a significant portion of the player base disappointed.

    • “The graphics are amazingly real to me, not cartoonish.”
    • “The graphics are really nice and the servers seem to be stable 99% of the time.”
    • “Graphics: 8/10 - it's a beautiful world, the textures and details are of a high standard.”
    • “I bought this game when it first came out and it appears to only have gotten worse... performance, graphics, audio... none seem to be consistent. Some models seem out of place, like they were made for a different game, same as textures, sounds, and effects. Especially audio... some sound effects are loud and abrasive and out of place, while others sort of match the environment they're in.”
    • “The game remains difficult to appreciate: outdated and poorly performing graphics, weak UI, microtransactions, lack of second character, and very limited quality of life features.”
    • “I know this is early access, but after the absolutely horrid graphics, I had to return this game. Mechanic issues be damned, this game has worse graphics than EverQuest 1, and that game is 17 years old... and more interesting.”
  • gameplay114 mentions

    The gameplay of "Shroud of the Avatar" is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating its ambitious sandbox mechanics and character development, while others criticize its clunky combat, overwhelming complexity, and numerous performance issues. Many reviews highlight a lack of polish and depth in core gameplay elements, leading to a frustrating experience for newcomers and seasoned RPG fans alike. Overall, while there are innovative ideas and a rich fantasy setting, the execution leaves much to be desired, often overshadowed by a perceived focus on monetization over gameplay quality.

    • “Shroud of the Avatar is a unique and ambitious MMORPG that combines a rich fantasy setting with sandbox-style gameplay.”
    • “Amazing game mechanics from the overall housing and decoration system to an intricate and customizable combat experience.”
    • “Sota is very playable and polished for an early access title despite there being many elements of the game that are either missing or are a work in progress; what is there works well and there are some interesting mechanics and systems that move away from the MMO norm.”
    • “The game can be overwhelming and confusing for newcomers, with many complex mechanics and systems to learn.”
    • “Glitches, bugs, and performance problems hinder gameplay and immersion, making it difficult to fully engage with the world.”
    • “The gameplay and graphics are clunky and look dated, the combat system is atrociously un-intuitive and generally just not fun, the new player experience is about as friendly as hugging a porcupine, and many other poorly thought out/implemented features that you can read all about from other reviews.”
  • optimization56 mentions

    The optimization of the game has been a significant point of contention among players, with many reporting persistent performance issues, including stuttering graphics, long load times, and crashes. While some users note recent improvements and quality of life updates, the overall consensus is that the game remains poorly optimized, particularly for lower-end systems, and still suffers from various bugs and inconsistent audio-visual elements. Despite some players finding it playable on decent hardware, the game's optimization continues to be a major barrier to fully enjoying the experience.

    • “I'm loving the optimization and quality of life improvements that make the game much better without dumbing it down.”
    • “Performance has improved a lot and they continue to work on it.”
    • “With a decent rig, you can actually crank it up to maximum settings now, and there seem to be no severe performance degradation anymore when playing for a while.”
    • “I bought this game when it first came out and it appears to only have gotten worse. Performance, graphics, audio - none seem to be consistent. Some models seem out of place, like they were made for a different game, as well as textures, sounds, and effects. Especially audio; some sound effects are loud and abrasive and out of place, while others sort of match the environment they're in.”
    • “Performance is terrible. So much is wrong here. Sometimes loading the map for the first time when you load the game will kick you from the server or crash the game. Everywhere you go, whether in an instanced area or on the overland map, there always seems to be some processes in the background constantly doing some kind of serious work, either running calculations of worldly proportions or something, all in the main thread. You always feel the full brunt of whatever unnecessary thing they are processing.”
    • “The performance is abysmal; even with a high-end machine, you will get nothing better than 25 to 30 fps if you are lucky in a large city.”
  • music52 mentions

    The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with many players praising the extensive music system that allows for player-generated content and social events, creating an engaging atmosphere. While some find the original compositions enchanting and reminiscent of classic titles like Ultima, others criticize the quality of certain tracks and sound effects, describing them as generic or annoying. Overall, the music aspect is highlighted as a significant feature, fostering creativity and community interaction, despite some dissenting opinions on its execution.

    • “The music is lovely and quite enchanting, and the whole world is beautifully designed.”
    • “I love music in real life, and to be able to play all these different instruments with other people is really awesome.”
    • “Right from the start, the music and scenery create an enchanting atmosphere that instantly hooks a fantasy fan such as myself.”
    • “With login music that sounds like something you would hear at a cheesy renaissance faire, to annoying overworld map music of the same woman moaning over and over again, I can't believe I had to turn this music off completely.”
    • “The music, graphics, sound effects, combat, the gameplay, performance all terribad.”
    • “More over, all music is player generated and I have already heard very generic Magix/Catooh samples in a lot of the player generated music.”
  • grinding49 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game is heavily criticized, with many players finding it tedious and unfulfilling, particularly in crafting and skill progression. While some appreciate the nostalgic, old-school MMO feel, the overwhelming focus on grinding for resources and experience can make gameplay feel monotonous and unrewarding. Overall, the game appeals primarily to those who enjoy extensive grinding, but it may deter players seeking a more dynamic and engaging experience.

    • “You might be forgiven for thinking the game has a huge variety of different builds to try out, but in reality, if you're not grinding millions of XP every week, you pretty much have to go magic.”
    • “Grinding in this game is rewarding; it feels like every hour spent farming brings you closer to unlocking something truly special.”
    • “The grind is real, but the satisfaction of leveling up and seeing your character grow makes it all worth it.”
    • “Totally screwed resource balance; you need to cut a big tree to make a whistle, which makes the game too grindy.”
    • “Crafting is tedious and much like having a real job.”
    • “Grinding for XP and materials will likely seem even more tiresome and unrewarding than expected because most of what you interact with looks and feels uninspired.”
  • monetization29 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game has been heavily criticized, with many users labeling it a "shameless cash grab" that prioritizes profit over quality gameplay. Despite significant crowdfunding, players feel the game relies on aggressive microtransactions and fails to deliver promised content, leading to widespread disappointment and frustration. Overall, the sentiment reflects a belief that the game exploits nostalgia while offering little value in return.

    • “The game feels like a free-to-play mobile game with in-app purchases.”
    • “The monetization model is well-balanced, allowing players to enjoy the game without feeling pressured to spend money.”
    • “I appreciate that the in-game purchases are optional and don't hinder the overall experience.”
    • “A shameless cash grab, with promises that will never be fulfilled.”
    • “This game crowdsourced something like 144 million, and is put to shame by modern free-to-play cash grab games, and their money-making tactics are 'more fair' than anything this game puts out.”
    • “I know game companies have to make money to develop games, but everything I see in the newsletters is more cash shop rubbish, no new mechanics or actual game content; it's a pure cash grab.”
  • stability27 mentions

    The game's stability has been widely criticized, with users reporting numerous bugs, glitches, and performance issues that detract from the overall experience. Many players experience significant frame rate drops, crashes, and a general sense of the game feeling unfinished, despite some acknowledging the potential for improvement through ongoing updates. While some users find the game playable and enjoyable, the consensus is that it remains a buggy and poorly optimized experience, particularly for those on lower-end systems.

    • “The game runs great at maxed out settings on my computer.”
    • “Since the game is still in development, do not expect something that is perfectly balanced and bug-free, but do expect an exceptional crafting system, a great community, and a development team who listens and acts on the input of their backers.”
    • “Glitches, bugs, and performance problems hinder gameplay and immersion, making it difficult to fully engage with the world.”
    • “Released after 2 years in beta, it is still painfully buggy.”
    • “Current state is a buggy and laggy mess. We are two months away from the supposed 'final wipe' and yet the game is still a laggy, buggy mess.”
  • humor14 mentions

    The humor in the game is described as a mix of intentional jokes and unintentional comedic moments, such as NPCs sounding silly and amusing developer interactions. Players find humor in both the game's design quirks and the absurdity of certain situations, though some aspects, like performance issues, detract from the overall experience. Overall, the humor is a notable aspect that adds a lighthearted touch to the gameplay.

    • “There are other things like NPCs sounding stupid, but I find it funny, like in ESO/Skyrim lol.”
    • “Be sure to read the comments on Kickstarter... very funny.”
    • “And at the moment, there are many funny moments too, some intentional and others just due to graphical anomalies.”
  • character development12 mentions

    Character development in the game is praised for its open-ended and classless system, allowing players to customize their characters and choose skills freely, reminiscent of classic RPGs like Morrowind. While some users appreciate the depth and potential for mastery, others criticize the initial gameplay flow and character design, suggesting that improvements are needed to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the character development system offers a rewarding progression for those who enjoy grinding and crafting.

    • “Gameplay 7/10 - wonderful character development and progression, be who you want to be, choose any skills and practice them to level the skill up.”
    • “I have been playing now for just about a full year, and have spent thousands of hours now testing, building on character development and social/community building.”
    • “Character development is utterly classless.”
    • “I can see that there is some promise in the game but boy do they need to get their fingers out and bring some flow to the gameplay in the beginning stages of your character development, skill progression, and crafting skills.”
    • “The character development is open-ended; you can master everything if you take the time, but it's no simple feat.”
  • atmosphere10 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its enchanting music and stunning scenery, which effectively immerse players in a rich fantasy world. Many reviewers highlight the attention to detail and the sense of time and place that enhance the overall experience, although some note a lack of atmosphere in urban areas due to player housing chaos. Overall, the atmosphere contributes significantly to the game's appeal, fostering a welcoming community spirit.

    • “Right from the start, the music and scenery create an enchanting atmosphere that instantly hooks a fantasy fan such as myself.”
    • “Some areas look fabulous, and nighttime with the lighting is very atmospheric!”
    • “However, there's such a level of detail and such a sense of time and place within the game that it's easy to get fully enveloped by the atmosphere and the story happening around your character or avatar.”
    • “- lack of atmosphere in cities, and utter chaos due to immense amount of player owned housing.”
    • “I did start playing it a few months ago, and at first I appreciated the atmosphere and the lack of handholding - you have to figure out things for sure.”
    • “However, there's such a level of detail, and such a sense of time and place within the game, that it's easy to get fully enveloped by the atmosphere and the story that is happening around your character, or avatar.”
  • replayability3 mentions

    Players note that the game's replayability has significantly improved due to recent quality of life updates and features, making it more enjoyable and accessible, even on mid-range systems. The inclusion of musical instruments adds a unique layer of engagement, enhancing the overall experience and encouraging repeated play.

    • “Even in the last few months I was off playing other things, the game is a lot more playable with many quality of life fixes and features added. While not amazing performance, it's been much improved recently and is perfectly playable on a mid-range gaming system (they are not kidding about the SSD requirement, by the way).”
    • “But it is way more playable than any game I've played in alpha.”
  • emotional1 mentions

    The emotional response to the game is largely negative, with players expressing feelings of disappointment and frustration, suggesting that it failed to meet their expectations and left them feeling cheated.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

645hMedian play time
1760hAverage play time
18-5000hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 9 analyzed playthroughs

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