TRANSFORMERS: Devastation

84%
Game Brain Score Based on 776 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • graphics
TRANSFORMERS: Devastation Game Cover
Transformers: Devastation is a rare gem that never lets off the gas. When other games try too hard to be more than they are Devastation truly is more than meets the eye.
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"Transformers: Devastation" is a comic book-inspired action game featuring fast-paced combat and five playable Autobots. The game boasts exceptional mechanics, awesome graphics, and delightful music, with an intriguing story and splendid replayability through five difficulty levels. Now available with new DLC including character skins and weapons.

  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Play​Station
  • Play​station 3
  • Xbox
  • Xbox 360
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

84%
Audience ScoreBased on 776 reviews
story57 positive mentions
grinding17 negative mentions
  • The game captures the essence of the original G1 Transformers cartoon with excellent visuals and voice acting from the original cast.
  • Combat is fast-paced and fluid, allowing for seamless transitions between robot and vehicle modes, making battles engaging and dynamic.
  • The nostalgic factor is high, providing a fun experience for fans of the franchise, with plenty of references and callbacks to the original series.
  • The game is relatively short, with a main campaign that can be completed in about 4-6 hours, which may not justify the full price for some players.
  • There is a lack of variety in environments and enemy types, leading to some repetitive gameplay as players progress through the chapters.
  • The weapon crafting and upgrade system can feel convoluted and underwhelming, with RNG elements that may frustrate players looking for specific upgrades.
  • story291 mentions

    The game's story is generally considered short, averaging around 4 to 6 hours for a complete playthrough, which many players find disappointing given the price. While the narrative is straightforward and reminiscent of classic Transformers episodes, it lacks depth and complexity, often feeling like a nostalgic but simplistic retelling of the Autobots' battle against the Decepticons. Despite its brevity, the game offers replayability through various characters and challenge missions, which can extend the overall experience for dedicated players.

    • “Great game! It had very fun gameplay and a pretty good story as well. I just beat the campaign and the end was amazing for such a good story.”
    • “The story fits perfectly in line with the cartoons, and the basic plot is that the Decepticons are bad and the Autobots need to stop them.”
    • “The story is engaging, and there seems to be a new twist at each turn.”
    • “The story mode is really short.”
    • “The story itself is forgettable but that never was going to be the main draw of a game inspired by an eighties cartoon.”
    • “The story is straightforward, but I look at it and think 'see, this is what the live action movies should have been like!' No complex plot and all, no humans interfering too much, Autobots and Decepticons with character development, it doesn't get any better!”
  • gameplay200 mentions

    The gameplay is characterized by its fast-paced, hack-and-slash mechanics that blend nostalgia with modern design, offering a satisfying combat experience reminiscent of titles like Bayonetta and Devil May Cry. While the combat is engaging and features a variety of characters and weapon customization, many players note that the gameplay can become repetitive and the campaign is relatively short, averaging around 4-6 hours. Overall, the game successfully captures the essence of the Transformers franchise, though it may not provide enough depth or variety to appeal to all players.

    • “It has simple yet effective combat, a good variety in characters and weapons, and extra challenge modes to get more out of the gameplay.”
    • “The weapons-customization aspect adds a little depth and replay value by encouraging you to change your gameplay style as you go.”
    • “The gameplay is tight and the graphics are perfect.”
    • “Gameplay gets repetitive; basically go into the level, shoot, drive around, collect stuff, shoot more stuff.”
    • “The gameplay is fitting but feels a bit like a 'Streets of Rage' in 3D with a very good combat system or 'Devil May Cry'.”
    • “The gameplay isn't revolutionary for Platinum; in fact, it's probably the most by-the-numbers combat they've done.”
  • graphics178 mentions

    The graphics of the game have been widely praised for their stunning cel-shaded art style, which effectively captures the nostalgic essence of the original 1980s Transformers cartoon. Reviewers noted the smooth animations and vibrant visuals, making it visually appealing even on lower-end systems. While some mentioned limitations in graphical options and performance issues on high settings, the overall aesthetic and character designs were celebrated as a highlight of the game.

    • “The graphics and animation are outstanding!”
    • “The graphics are stunning, even with everything set to low, the environments were still beautiful and the animations were impactful; punches that would logically have thousands of pounds of force behind them looked like they had thousands of pounds of force behind them.”
    • “The visuals absolutely nail the first generation transformers style, but the game looks better than the shows ever did.”
    • “The graphics look like they are from the 90s.”
    • “The game is a direct port from consoles, which is clearly visible in about everything in the game, but mostly in the way the menu works and the graphics.”
    • “While the combat is undoubtedly satisfying and rewarding, the sense of repetition, the last-gen visuals, and the brevity of the adventure feel more matched for a budget price.”
  • music125 mentions

    The music in "Transformers: Devastation" has received widespread acclaim for its high quality and energetic rock and metal compositions, largely contributed by Vince DiCola, known for his work on the 1986 animated film. Reviewers appreciate how the soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience, matching the fast-paced combat and nostalgic aesthetic of the Transformers franchise, although some lament the absence of classic tracks from the original series. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature, effectively capturing the spirit of the Transformers universe while providing an engaging backdrop for battles.

    • “The music is also from the composer who made the score for the animated movie, so it’s very high quality all the way through the game, and feels like you are playing a part of something set just before the animated movie.”
    • “The combat is fast-paced but fun as hell and the music is badass, and I say that not just as someone who loves video game OSTs but also a fan of rock & heavy metal music.”
    • “The soundtrack is outstanding and matches the styling and pace of the game perfectly.”
    • “Only bad thing is the lack of 'that' soundtrack, you know which one I mean....”
    • “The only real gripe I've got with it is that I can't find the soundtrack anywhere.”
    • “The music also is nothing to go home about, the typical butt-rock and plenty of guitar riffs to go with the action but it's nothing stellar.”
  • replayability56 mentions

    The game offers a mixed bag of replayability, with some players appreciating the variety of characters, difficulty levels, and weapon customization that encourage multiple playthroughs. However, many reviewers note that the short length of the main story (around 5-6 hours) and limited combat mechanics may deter those seeking substantial replay value, especially at full price. Overall, while there are elements that can extend gameplay for dedicated fans, the consensus suggests that the replayability may not justify the cost for casual players.

    • “The weapons-customization aspect adds a little depth and replay value by encouraging you to change your gameplay style as you go.”
    • “Replayability for this title is high for those who like these types of games!”
    • “The game has a lot of replayability due to the aforementioned five distinct playable characters, as well as loot drops that leave you eternally hoping for the best possible drop of a weapon you want and fodder weapons to mix with it.”
    • “I might replay it one day, but still… the full price is a killer and the replay value is not high enough to make up for it.”
    • “To me, not really replayable all that much as there aren't enough combos to keep me engaged and desiring to level up my weapons beyond the first playthrough.”
    • “The game is about 5-6 hours on a first run, so players who don't care about replay value will be left disappointed.”
  • optimization21 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is highly praised, with many players reporting smooth performance and minimal issues, even on lower-end systems. While it is well-optimized for controllers, some users noted that keyboard and mouse controls can be cumbersome. The game consistently runs at a stable frame rate, with only minor performance problems at higher graphics settings.

    • “The game itself is pretty cool, and works well on my PC with no performance problems; the gameplay is awesome.”
    • “Performance is excellent, and I rarely have any issues at all on my outdated rig.”
    • “However, the game runs great on my PC and it does have some optimization, running at a constant 59-60fps.”
    • “It's also clearly optimized for a controller as it is a pain to do everything with a keyboard and standard mouse.”
    • “Most Japanese games either don't make it to PC or get a very poorly optimized port, and Kamiya has said in the past he has no interest in PC versions of Platinum games, but this is an outstanding PC port so that's a huge plus.”
    • “Only small performance problems at higher graphics settings.”
  • grinding17 mentions

    Reviews indicate that while grinding is a notable aspect of the game, it can often feel tedious and repetitive, particularly in weapon upgrades and farming for loot. However, some players appreciate the depth it adds to combat and loadout customization, suggesting that those who enjoy completionist gameplay may find it rewarding. Overall, the grinding experience varies, with some finding it bearable and even enjoyable amidst the fast-paced action.

    • “I suggest getting it on discount, unless you like grinding and completionist style games.”
    • “Not much in the way of exploration, so it can sometimes feel a little grindy.”
    • “Grinding for the best perks on gear drops for fodder weapons can get tedious if you don't get the weapon you want right away.”
  • emotional6 mentions

    Players express a strong emotional connection to the game, often reminiscing about their childhood and the joy it brings, likening the experience to playing with beloved toys. The nostalgia is palpable, with many reviewers noting that the game evokes feelings of innocence and excitement reminiscent of their youth, particularly through its homage to classic franchises like Transformers. Overall, the emotional impact is significant, making players feel young and filled with wonder again.

    • “This game made me feel like I was a kid again playing in my room with these toys, and it brings that joy and imagination to fruition.”
    • “I welled up playing this game, waiting for it since the good old 80s. It does the G1 Transformers a great honor; today I felt like that wee kid I once was waiting for his hero to kick Megatron's butt on the big wooden TV.”
    • “There is a lot of rose-tinted glasses viewing in my opinion of this game, in that it made me feel 5 years old again; the Transformers game that couldn't have existed in my youth.”
  • humor4 mentions

    The humor in the game is characterized by clever throwaway lines and a dark sense of irony, particularly in character interactions like those between Wheeljack and Optimus Prime, which elicit genuine chuckles. However, some players find the humor to be cringeworthy at times, suggesting a mixed reception overall.

    • “Some of the characters have great throwaway lines combined with a dark sense of humor alluding to what is going to befall them in the movie (Wheeljack and Optimus Prime), which I found very well placed and made me chuckle.”
    • “In a way, it's hilarious to see all that CPU power, GPU iron, and software wizardry being utilized to emulate a goofy, error-prone cartoon.”
    • “I also find it funny because I just recently saw an episode in season 2 where, towards the last half of the episode, Megatron actually got the ability to start turning the entire Earth into metal; just a funny side note.”
  • character development4 mentions

    Character development in the game is praised for its straightforward yet engaging portrayal of Autobots and Decepticons, reminiscent of the original cartoon. Reviewers appreciate the fluid animations and vibrant art style, which enhance the characters' designs and contribute to a satisfying experience that honors the franchise's roots.

    • “The story is straightforward, but I look at it and think, 'See, this is what the live-action movies should have been like!' No complex plot, and all, no humans interfering too much, Autobots and Decepticons with character development; it doesn't get any better!”
    • “The art is wonderfully cartoony and colorful, animations are fluid and satisfying, and for the most part, the character design is pretty great.”
    • “G1 character design and looks pay homage to what started the entire franchise.”
    • “The character development is lacking; it feels like the characters are just there to fill space rather than grow or evolve throughout the story.”
    • “I was disappointed with how one-dimensional the characters are; they don't seem to have any real depth or backstory.”
    • “The lack of meaningful character arcs makes it hard to connect with anyone in the game.”
  • atmosphere4 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is characterized by a campy charm reminiscent of classic cartoons, enhanced by excellent voice acting and a vibrant art style that evokes nostalgia for the original series. The combination of heavy metal music during boss fights and cheesy 80s dialogue contributes to an immersive experience that transports players back to their childhood. Overall, the atmosphere is a delightful blend of humor and excitement, making for a memorable gaming experience.

    • “The voice acting is great, and the graphics and art style create the perfect Generation 1 atmosphere.”
    • “Coupled together with the incredible cartoon TV series rock music in the fights and the sheer atmosphere buildup for the big boss battles, it makes for a great experience that takes you back to when you were 10 years old, sitting in front of the TV on a Saturday morning going - wow!”
    • “Part of this game's charm is the all-around campy atmosphere that exists in the cartoons, rather than the seriousness that sometimes overtakes the movies and previous games.”
    • “I love the atmosphere of the settings, I love the flow of combat, I love the pulsing of heavy metal they play during boss fights, and I love the super cheesy 80's dialogue that they took straight from the show/movie.”
    • “Coupled together with the incredible cartoon TV series rock music in the fights and the sheer atmosphere build-up for the big boss battles, it makes for a great experience that takes you back to when you were 10 years old, sitting in front of the TV on a Saturday morning going - wow!”
  • stability3 mentions

    Overall, the game's stability is generally solid, with smooth performance at a consistent 59-60fps on most systems. While some users report minor glitches and occasional visual bugs, these issues do not significantly impact the gameplay experience.

    • “The game runs great on my PC, with solid optimization and a consistent frame rate of 59-60 FPS.”
    • “I appreciate how stable the game is; it rarely crashes and maintains smooth performance throughout.”
    • “The stability of the game is impressive, allowing for an uninterrupted gaming experience.”
    • “There are little glitches; however, they seem to be outside of the actual gameplay.”
    • “Great visuals, albeit a little bit buggy at times, although that may just be my computer.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

75% average critic score

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Play time

5hMedian play time
16hAverage play time
6hMain story
19hCompletionist
5-6hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 8 analyzed playthroughs

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