Rad

The opinions of the critics regarding the Story of Rad are quite varied. Some critics, such as NintendoWorldReport and Game Informer, appreciate the post-apocalyptic setting and the quest-like nature of the story, where players take on the role of a teenager tasked with bringing life back to the world. This aspect of the story seems to resonate positively with these critics, as it provides a clear objective and a sense of purpose. Additionally, GamingTrend praises the story for its wit and small flourishes that add depth to the setting, showcasing Double Fine's trademark style. On the other hand, some critics express a more mixed or negative view of the story. Slant Magazine, for instance, criticizes the lack of connection between the story and the '80s aesthetic and advanced technology, suggesting that the narrative fails to fully capitalize on these elements. Similarly, TheSixthAxis states that while the game has hints of a greater narrative, the story is not the main focus. This suggests that the story might not be as developed or engaging as some critics would have liked. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Rad is a mixed bag. While some appreciate the post-apocalyptic setting and quest-like structure, others find the story lacking in depth or connection to the game's aesthetic. However, there are positive aspects mentioned by multiple critics, such as the wit and small flourishes that add depth to the setting, which could potentially make the story more enjoyable for players. Ultimately, the story seems to be a secondary aspect of the game, with the gameplay and mechanics taking center stage.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Rad are quite varied. Many critics highlight the positive aspects of the gameplay, particularly praising the roguelike elements and the mutations system. NintendoWorldReport describes the roguelike gameplay as interesting, with mutations providing different abilities and powers. The Indie Game Website mentions the new mutations and abilities that add depth to the isometric third-person action-adventure gameplay. DualShockers commends the challenging but enjoyable combat, encouraging experimentation and learning enemy attack patterns. Push Square praises the addictive roguelike gameplay and the joy of experimenting with different combinations of powers and mutations. These positive opinions indicate that the gameplay of Rad offers a fresh and unique experience, with engaging combat mechanics and a variety of abilities to explore. However, there are also some negative opinions regarding the gameplay of Rad. TheSixthAxis points out that the core gameplay can be inconsistent due to random enemy placement and mutations, which can make some runs almost impossible. GamingTrend criticizes the lack of explanation and the novelty of exploration wearing off quickly, stating that the mutations and combat lack excitement. Gameblog.fr describes the gameplay as repetitive and lacking excitement, with mutations offering little value. Twinfinite mentions balancing issues with melee attacks and mutations that don't synergize well. GameCritics criticizes the core melee combat, stating that it devolves into a repetitive pattern. These negative opinions highlight some flaws in the gameplay, such as inconsistent difficulty, lack of excitement, and unbalanced mechanics. Overall, the consensus among the critics is mixed. While some critics praise the gameplay for its addictive and satisfying loop, challenging combat, and the depth provided by mutations, others criticize it for its inconsistency, lack of excitement, and repetitive nature. However, it is worth noting that the positive opinions outweigh the negative ones, indicating that the gameplay of Rad generally offers an enjoyable and engaging experience. Critics like NintendoWorldReport, DualShockers, and Push Square particularly highlight the strengths of the gameplay, emphasizing the addictive nature, experimentation opportunities, and satisfying combat mechanics. Despite the criticisms raised by TheSixthAxis, GamingTrend, and GameCritics, the overall sentiment suggests that Rad's gameplay is a unique and worthwhile experience for players who enjoy roguelike mechanics and the exploration of mutations.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Rad are generally positive. Many critics praise the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetic, which is inspired by the 1980s. The use of bright neon colors, retro-themed visuals, and comic book-like art style are frequently mentioned as visually appealing aspects of the game. Critics like GameSpace, NintendoWorldReport, TheSixthAxis, PC Gamer, The Games Machine, DarkStation, Digitally Downloaded, DualShockers, Gameplanet, God is a Geek, IGN, Push Square, Screen Rant, Twinfinite, VGC, GameCritics, Video Chums, Xbox Achievements, and Xbox Tavern all express their appreciation for the game's visual design. They highlight the nostalgic atmosphere created by the bright colors and retro aesthetic, as well as the visually rewarding world and distinctive 80s style. However, there are some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Rad. Some critics, such as NintendoWorldReport, GamingTrend, Gameblog.fr, and Slant Magazine, mention certain drawbacks. They point out graphical setbacks in the Switch version, areas that are bland, unappealing art style, and questionable relevance of the 80s aesthetic to the story and setting. GamingTrend and Gameblog.fr also note that the game's 80s neon-synth aesthetic is underused, and assets are replicated throughout the game. Impulsegamer mentions that the hypercolour world with an overly neon look can be overwhelming. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Rad has a visually appealing and distinctive 80s aesthetic. The game's use of bright colors, neon visuals, and retro-themed design elements create an atmospheric and absurd world. Critics appreciate the attention to detail in the level design, the visually rewarding world, and the charming and colorful aesthetic. However, there are some concerns about graphical setbacks in certain versions, bland areas, and the underuse of the 80s aesthetic. Despite these criticisms, the positive aspects of Rad's Graphics and Visual Design outweigh the negatives, making it an overall visually appealing experience.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Rad are generally positive. Many critics praise the game's soundtrack, which features a synth-heavy and electronic sound that captures the essence of the 80s. Critics such as NintendoWorldReport, TheSixthAxis, GamingTrend, PC Gamer, The Games Machine, COGconnected, DarkStation, Digitally Downloaded, DualShockers, God is a Geek, IGN, Impulsegamer, Push Square, Screen Rant, Twinfinite, VGC, Video Chums, Xbox Achievements, and Xbox Tavern all mention the quality of the music, with descriptions such as "hardcore electronic soundtrack," "stellar synth soundtrack," "superb score," "divine music," "wonderful melodies," and "killer soundtrack." The use of synthesizers, bass voiceovers, and references to popular 80s songs also contribute to the immersive experience and the game's neon-tinged visuals. However, there are a few criticisms regarding the sound design and music of Rad. The Indie Game Website mentions that the narrator's voice can become grating, while Gameplanet notes some musical hiccups and performance issues on the PS4. Additionally, Xbox Achievements suggests that full character voice overs would have been a nice addition to further enhance the soundtrack. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Rad has a strong and fitting soundtrack that complements the game's atmosphere and visuals. The synth-heavy music, along with the sound effects, effectively immerse players in the 80s aesthetic and dystopian setting. While there are a few minor criticisms, the positive opinions outweigh the negatives, making the Sound Design and Music of Rad a standout aspect of the game according to the majority of the critics.

The overall sentiment regarding the voice acting in Rad is mostly positive, with several critics highlighting the enjoyable and amusing aspects of the voiceovers. GameSpace mentions the deep-voiced narrator as a silly and enjoyable aspect of the game, while Switch Player praises the excellent voiceover that reacts to the player's actions and mutations. PC Gamer also adds that the narrator's gruff and biting voice adds to the overall atmosphere of the game. These positive opinions indicate that the voice acting successfully enhances the gameplay experience and adds depth to the characters and story. However, there are a few critics who mention some negatives about the voice acting in Rad. TheSixthAxis states that while the narrator's voice is enthusiastic, it can become annoying. DarkStation also mentions occasional jokes that miss the mark. These criticisms suggest that there may be instances where the voice acting falls short in terms of maintaining consistency or delivering humor effectively. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Rad is a strong aspect of the game. GamingTrend mentions Double Fine's trademark wit shining through in the story delivery via voice-over, and Digitally Downloaded praises the tonally spot-on and brilliantly bad voiceover in Rad. These positive opinions, along with the mention of amusing and joyously weird voices by Push Square, indicate that the voice acting successfully adds to the unique and enjoyable nature of the game. While there are some minor criticisms, the overall sentiment leans towards the positive side, suggesting that the voice acting in Rad is well-received by the majority of reviewers.

In terms of the technical performance on the Nintendo Switch, there are mixed opinions among the critics. NintendoWorldReport mentions that the game runs smoothly but has graphical issues, such as blurry and pixelated visuals. Switch Player also notes some performance issues, specifically slight stuttering in the latter stages of each run. However, it is worth mentioning that The Games Machine played the game on PC and states that it is well-made from a technical standpoint. This suggests that the technical performance on the Switch may not be as strong as on other platforms, but it is still playable and enjoyable for the most part. On the PlayStation 4, there are some noticeable performance issues according to Gameplanet. They mention screen hitching and music hiccups, which can be quite disruptive to the gameplay experience. IGN also highlights a sluggish framerate on Xbox One S and long loading times on the PS4 version. These performance issues on the PS4 platform indicate that the game may not be optimized well for this particular console, leading to a less smooth and enjoyable experience for players. As for the Xbox One, Xbox Tavern mentions long loading screens that disrupt the game's flow. This negative aspect of the technical performance can be frustrating for players, as it interrupts the gameplay experience. However, it is important to note that IGN's review mentions a sluggish framerate on Xbox One S, suggesting that the technical performance issues may not be limited to just the loading screens. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Rad has some technical performance issues across multiple gaming platforms. The Nintendo Switch version seems to suffer from graphical issues and performance hiccups, while the PlayStation 4 version has screen hitching and music hiccups. The Xbox One version is plagued by long loading screens and a sluggish framerate. However, it is worth noting that The Games Machine's positive review on the PC version indicates that the game is well-made from a technical standpoint on that platform. Despite these technical shortcomings, it is possible that the gameplay and other aspects of Rad may still offer an enjoyable experience for players, as long as they can overlook or tolerate these technical issues.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Rad are generally positive. Many critics highlight the game's procedural generation as a key factor in keeping the gameplay interesting and varied. GameSpace, NintendoWorldReport, and Switch Player all mention the replay value being enhanced by the mutations, abilities, and extensive combination of powers that create different experiences with each playthrough. TheSixthAxis and Vooks also emphasize the progress elements that carry over between runs, such as unlocking new playable characters, modifiers, and items. DualShockers and Gameplanet mention the random powers and different endings, as well as permanent improvements to the home base, secrets, and lore to discover, further adding to the game's replayability. The Overpowered Noobs specifically mentions multiple customization options, unlockable quirks, and anti-frustration features that contribute to an enjoyable replay experience. However, there are some negative aspects mentioned by critics that may impact the replay value of Rad. GamingTrend and PC Gamer express disappointment in the game's lack of complexity, depth, and variety compared to other games in the genre. Slant Magazine mentions that new content doesn't unlock fast enough, and each new run can feel redundant and shallow. GameCritics notes that the randomness of the game can make runs feel futile, which may discourage some players from replaying. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Rad offers a solid replay value. The combination of procedural generation, mutations, abilities, and unlockable content provides variety and keeps the gameplay fresh. Critics like Push Square, Twinfinite, and VGC praise the endless personality and replay value provided by the combinations and options of powers and mutations. The inclusion of daily challenges, secrets, and lore also adds to the replayability of the game, as mentioned by Screen Rant, Video Chums, and Xbox Achievements. While there are some criticisms regarding the game's depth and unlocking pace, the majority of critics find Rad to be an enjoyable experience with enough content and challenge to keep players interested for multiple playthroughs.