GRIS

The majority of critics praised the story of GRIS for its emotional depth and impactful themes. Critics like GameSpew, Game Revolution, and Nintendo Insider highlighted the game's metaphorical representation of mental struggles, personal loss, and the journey towards healing and self-discovery. The use of symbolism, metaphors, and visual storytelling was commended for creating a poignant narrative that resonated with players on an emotional level. The story's focus on themes of grief, loss, and rebuilding after trauma was particularly well-received, with critics like DualShockers and Forbes appreciating the game's ability to convey complex emotions without the use of words. However, some critics expressed concerns about the story's lack of specificity and depth. Guardian and VideoGamer felt that the tale of a girl's fear and grief lacked nuance and failed to delve deeper into the darker aspects of the protagonist's emotional journey. Similarly, ZTGD mentioned that the abstract nature of the narrative left them unsure of the game's overall message, indicating a potential disconnect between the story's intended meaning and its execution. EGM also noted that the explicit nature of the storytelling could be a disadvantage, as it made the narrative feel common and lacking in emotional depth. Overall, despite some criticisms regarding the lack of depth and specificity in the storytelling, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive towards the story of GRIS. The game's ability to convey complex themes of loss, grief, and healing through stunning visuals, symbolism, and emotional resonance resonated with the majority of reviewers. The wordless narrative, filled with connotations and metaphors, allowed players to interpret the story in their own way, fostering a deep connection with the protagonist's emotional journey. Critics appreciated the game's focus on personal struggles and the journey towards self-acceptance, making GRIS a compelling and emotionally impactful experience for many players.

The gameplay of GRIS has received a mix of opinions from critics, with some positive aspects highlighted by reviewers. Critics such as PC Invasion and Worth Playing praised the well-balanced gameplay that becomes more involved as the game progresses. They appreciated the challenging yet clear puzzle sections and the gradual introduction of new abilities, which encouraged players to think and explore creatively. Game Informer also commended the well-designed gameplay that allows players to influence the environment with the protagonist's abilities, adding an interactive element to the experience. Additionally, Gameplanet noted that GRIS focuses primarily on exploration and puzzle-solving, providing players with new tools to interact with the environment as they progress, enhancing the sense of discovery. On the other hand, several critics pointed out negative aspects of the gameplay in GRIS. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Universe criticized the shallow and simplistic gameplay, with frustrating platforming and puzzles that lacked communication and precise timing requirements. God is a Geek highlighted issues with unclear instructions on controls, leading to confusion, and backtracking in the Metroidvania elements. IGN and Game Revolution mentioned minor frustrations and basic level design that made exceptional qualities feel superficial, lacking depth and innovation in gameplay mechanics. Some critics, like GameSpot, noted that while the movement mechanics were not challenging, they served to draw players deeper into the world, suggesting a missed opportunity for more engaging gameplay challenges. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the gameplay of GRIS leans towards a more positive reception, with a focus on the game's strengths in exploration, puzzle-solving, and platforming mechanics. Critics such as The Digital Fix and Guardian appreciated the elegant puzzles and gravity mechanics, while GameSpace and Attack of the Fanboy highlighted the engaging puzzle-solving elements that kept players immersed in the emotional narrative. While some critics found the gameplay to be simple and lacking in challenge, others, like Hardcore Gamer and Forbes, praised the adaptive abilities and clever puzzles that progressively became more elaborate and challenging. The general sentiment suggests that while GRIS may not offer groundbreaking gameplay innovations, its emphasis on artistic appeal, emotional storytelling, and immersive gameplay mechanics resonated positively with many reviewers, making it a worthwhile experience for players seeking a more contemplative and visually stunning gaming experience.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the graphics and visual design of GRIS, with many describing it as a masterpiece. The game was lauded for its stunning watercolor aesthetics, hand-drawn animations, and vibrant color palettes that evolve as the player progresses through the game. Critics such as Gameplanet and Nintendo Life highlighted the breathtaking art design and the feeling of playing a piece of artwork, with progressively colorful environments that enhance the overall experience. The visuals were commended for their unique style, sharpness, and memorable environments, as noted by New Game Network, creating a visually stunning and meaningful world that resonates with the protagonist's emotional journey. While the overwhelming sentiment towards GRIS' graphics and visual design was positive, some critics pointed out potential drawbacks. PC Gamer mentioned that the emphasis on beauty might hinder the portrayal of darker emotions associated with grief, suggesting that the game's focus on aesthetics could overshadow its thematic depth. Additionally, VideoGamer noted occasional confusion between foreground and background due to the equal importance placed on the beauty of both elements, which could potentially impact gameplay experience for some players. These critiques suggest that while GRIS excels in visual splendor, there may be a need for a more balanced approach to ensure that the gameplay and narrative elements are not overshadowed by the aesthetics. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of GRIS. The game is widely regarded as a visual masterpiece, with its hand-drawn watercolor visuals, intricate animations, and clever use of color symbolism impressing reviewers across different platforms. The stunning art direction, combined with the emotionally resonant storytelling, creates a captivating and immersive experience for players. Critics such as Game Revolution and TheSixthAxis praised the game for its wonderful watercolor art style and stunning visuals that evolve alongside the narrative, showcasing the seamless integration of aesthetics with gameplay. In conclusion, GRIS stands out as a shining example of how visuals can enhance storytelling and emotional depth in video games, earning it high acclaim from critics as a true work of art in the gaming industry.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the sound design and music of GRIS, highlighting it as one of the standout features of the game. Critics such as The Sydney Morning Herald, Game Informer, and EGM emphasized how the sweeping and expressive sound enhanced the visuals, creating a deeply immersive experience. The soundtrack by Berlinist was particularly lauded for complementing the game's beauty, emotional journey, and overall atmosphere. Critics like Nintendo Insider and CGMagazine appreciated how the sound design worked in harmony with the visuals, creating a magical and tranquil ambiance. The haunting and powerful music, as described by Attack of the Fanboy, was noted to stick with players long after playing, enhancing the emotional impact and creating an enrapturing experience. While the overwhelming sentiment towards the sound design and music of GRIS was highly positive, a few critics did mention some potential drawbacks. Game Revolution noted that while the soundtrack enhanced the emotional journey, the intense moments were accompanied by a soundtrack that could be perceived as imposing. Additionally, some critics like GameSpew mentioned that the lack of text or dialogue in the game made the music the primary means of communication, which could potentially limit the overall storytelling experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the sound design and music of GRIS is overwhelmingly positive. The exceptional orchestral score, evocative melodies, and adaptive soundtrack were highlighted as key strengths that enhanced the emotional impact, immersive atmosphere, and storytelling of the game. Critics such as DualShockers and GamingTrend praised how the music guided players through the narrative without the need for spoken words, while The Digital Fix and DarkStation emphasized how the music played a key role in creating the game's atmosphere and emotional resonance. With the majority of critics expressing admiration for the sound design and music of GRIS, it is evident that these elements played a crucial role in elevating the overall experience of the game and resonating with players on a deep emotional level.

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In terms of positives regarding the replay value of GRIS, several critics highlighted the game's hidden collectibles, optional challenges, and additional depth that incentivize players to revisit the game. Critics like DualShockers and Hardcore Gamer expressed a desire to replay GRIS due to its meticulous artistry, emotional depth, and hidden achievements, which enhance the overall experience. Additionally, reviewers such as New Game Network and Worth Playing commended the game for offering challenges and collectibles off the main path, providing added content and replay value for players looking to explore further. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain negatives that may limit the replay value of GRIS. PlayStation Universe and Game Revolution mentioned the short duration of the game, lasting around three to four hours, which could deter players from replaying it multiple times. Additionally, PC Gamer highlighted the linear progression and lack of strong incentives to complete collections as factors that diminish the game's replayability. Critics like GamersRD and Metro GameCentral also noted the lack of significant branching paths or choices, which may reduce the appeal for players seeking varied replay experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the replay value of GRIS leans towards a mixed perspective. While some reviewers appreciate the hidden collectibles, optional challenges, and emotional depth that encourage replayability, others find the short duration, linear progression, and lack of deep gameplay as limiting factors. The game's artistic beauty, emotional impact, and thematic depth seem to be the main draws for replay value, with critics like Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport acknowledging its worth revisiting for certain players. Ultimately, the replay value of GRIS appears to vary depending on individual preferences, with some finding it compelling for multiple playthroughs while others view it as more suited for a one-time experience.