Contrast

 PlayStation 4
User Score
6.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 390 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 141 out of 390
  2. Mixed: 177 out of 390
  3. Negative: 72 out of 390

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  1. jedi5diah
    Feb 13, 2014
    8
    If not for the weak controls and glitches that you will just get stuck in random situations, this a an class act for story telling.

    Almost every scene are wonderfully crafted except for the last chapter was forcefully created for "dragging" with meaningless "platformings" and infamous glitchy box puzzles... (Good for you if you got thru with one try.)

    Definite a worthy title of your time.
  2. Reverz
    Dec 15, 2013
    8
    I liked the game... I've seen a lot of complaints about bugs but personally I haven't run into any. The game looks good, I liked the unique 2D-3D gameplay and most of all I liked the game setting and the vibe it was giving off. The puzzles are quite easy, some of em a bit frustrating at times but you should look at this game as more of a magical journey then just a game.
    If this is the    I liked the game... I've seen a lot of complaints about bugs but personally I haven't run into any. The game looks good, I liked the unique 2D-3D gameplay and most of all I liked the game setting and the vibe it was giving off. The puzzles are quite easy, some of em a bit frustrating at times but you should look at this game as more of a magical journey then just a game.
    If this is the worst game we'll get for free on PSplus, it'll be money well spent.    … Expand
  3. Joruto
    Dec 7, 2013
    4
    This game had so much potential. It had a brilliant gameplay mechanic and a really nice art style. However it is let down because of the glitchy mess that it is. Many of the puzzles in this game don't even work as intended because the physics in this game are so glitchy! There's also some kinda bad level design in some places and I feel like the shadow gameplay and controls kinda feelThis game had so much potential. It had a brilliant gameplay mechanic and a really nice art style. However it is let down because of the glitchy mess that it is. Many of the puzzles in this game don't even work as intended because the physics in this game are so glitchy! There's also some kinda bad level design in some places and I feel like the shadow gameplay and controls kinda feel stiff and awkward. Although this game has a beautiful art style I feel like this game is having an identity crisis. Does it want to be an old French movie or an old american noire style movie? I'm not too sure and I think these styles merge in a strange way and it's kinda corny. Also this game isn't really graphically impressive either, which isn't a bad thing, but kinda sucks. Also I won't spoil the story but you'll defiantly be disappointed with the ending and for a game that costs £12 in the UK you won't be spending your money's worth, luckily I had PS+, as the you could probably beat this game in 40 minutes.… Expand
  4. squall
    Mar 5, 2014
    8
    I'll just get this out of the way first, Contrast has a beautiful atmosphere, soundtrack, and art style. Now on to the other things. Overall i felt the shadow play was pretty good and enjoyable. The puzzles were nice and fun while some were simple other required you to wrack your brain a little bit to figure out which was also nice. The story though somehow felt very incomplete i feel asI'll just get this out of the way first, Contrast has a beautiful atmosphere, soundtrack, and art style. Now on to the other things. Overall i felt the shadow play was pretty good and enjoyable. The puzzles were nice and fun while some were simple other required you to wrack your brain a little bit to figure out which was also nice. The story though somehow felt very incomplete i feel as if sequel or better yet a prequel to better explain what happened to the character you play as. The game was a bit buggy nothing game breaking but your character would bet stuck on things when she popped out of the shadows or when carrying something but again nothing game breaking. Overall i really liked the game it was the first thing i beat on my PS4 and i have to say i'm not disappointed.… Expand
  5. FrankTCastle
    Mar 28, 2014
    8
    Contrast is a beautifully put together game from it's art style, 2d/3d game play to the music. The game has a good story and excellent voice over.

    The game play is fun and inventive, the collection items are also fun to look for as there is some fantastic artwork to look at among those collectibles. All in all it is a charming game and well worth playing.
  6. tnfsnobelxp
    Dec 21, 2013
    10
    Game play is brilliant, inspiring I have never thought that shadows can be used like this puzzles are really good and the game story as the story progress secrets reveal this is thrilling.
  7. nickyweg
    Nov 19, 2013
    5
    It was okay. At times it was too difficult. Overall I probably wouldn't recommend it to a friend. The time period and map feels very Bioshock Infinite-ish.
  8. BlackMagix
    Nov 26, 2013
    8
    The game has a very intriguing story that holds attention. The puzzles in the game leave some thought to be desired but they are a unique blend of the mechanics in the game. Overall the art style, music and immersiveness is quite good until you nail a bug. Haven't had anything game breaking thus far but it is a fun experiencing given the ps4's limited number of games.
  9. K2D
    Dec 4, 2013
    1
    This is a really interesting game with an intriguing story and a promising, easy going gameplay. There are some graphical hick-ups, and the background music isn't always as good as desired. This could easily have been enough for an 7/10. Sadly, this game is just plain broken. Puzzle elements need to get going are broken and each time you fail, you'll have to start from the very beginning.This is a really interesting game with an intriguing story and a promising, easy going gameplay. There are some graphical hick-ups, and the background music isn't always as good as desired. This could easily have been enough for an 7/10. Sadly, this game is just plain broken. Puzzle elements need to get going are broken and each time you fail, you'll have to start from the very beginning. Three game breaking puzzles in a row! NO EXCUSE. Until this game is fixed 1/10.… Expand
  10. Curmudgeon
    Dec 5, 2013
    7
    I gave this game a whirl during the whole BF4 debacle. I really liked the shadow concept of the game, and found the story/environment entertaining. And what's not to like for a free-2-play game. Their were a few annoying glitches, but that's almost to be expected with a smaller game title release such as this one.
  11. luiso_ksiq
    Dec 9, 2013
    8
    It is a charming story, with some serious flaws in the physical game and repetitive puzzles. It is a very interesting concept, but I think that Compulsion Games could have done more.
  12. FordPrefect
    Jan 28, 2014
    7
    I wanted to give this game a 10. It is an amazing concept with a simply gorgeous art style! Unfortunately, there are far to many glitches that makes some puzzles really frustrating and downright annoying. Putting down boxes always made my character get stuck for a few moments as she and the box tried to occupy the same space. Also, the story never made me really care or feel much ofI wanted to give this game a 10. It is an amazing concept with a simply gorgeous art style! Unfortunately, there are far to many glitches that makes some puzzles really frustrating and downright annoying. Putting down boxes always made my character get stuck for a few moments as she and the box tried to occupy the same space. Also, the story never made me really care or feel much of anything. Still, I would highly recommend this game since it is a truly unique experience.… Expand
  13. TheBigD-SMC
    Dec 19, 2013
    8
    A simply beautiful game for the price. Full of interesting puzzles, fantastic artwork, wonderful music, an engaging story, and somewhat above average acting.

    GAME PLAY There is no fast action in this game, save for a few timely maneuvers that need to be made while solving puzzles. The whole game can be completed in 1-3 hours. The camera and controls can be quirky at times, causing    A simply beautiful game for the price. Full of interesting puzzles, fantastic artwork, wonderful music, an engaging story, and somewhat above average acting.

    GAME PLAY
    There is no fast action in this game, save for a few timely maneuvers that need to be made while solving puzzles. The whole game can be completed in 1-3 hours. The camera and controls can be quirky at times, causing some slight annoyance; but I never encountered anything game-stopping or overly frustrating.

    DIFFICULTY
    It's not until late in the game that some puzzles become slightly challenging; but only the ones in the first Act (out of 3 Acts) are pitifully obvious. I was able to find all collectibles except 2 on the first run through the game; and the 2 I missed were simply because I went somewhere that forced a scene/Act change before I thoroughly explored.

    STORY
    The story is quite engaging, if (like me) you are attracted more to a story in a game than the actual game itself.

    TALENT
    The voice talent in the game is pretty good; however some of the flow is quite sub-par. Primarily, this complaint is directed to fact that you basically do everything in this game, while the character you are aiding in the plot for the most part just tells you where to go and what she needs you to do next.

    SUMMARY
    Pros: Artwork, Music, Story, Concept, Puzzles, Talent, Somewhat Easy
    Cons: Brevity, Control/Camera Glitches, Maybe Too Easy for Some, Little-to-No Replay Value    … Expand
  14. Superdooper
    Dec 29, 2013
    8
    I found this game enjoyable. As a PS+ subscriber it was free but would have been worth the $15. The concept was new and unique. The puzzles aren't overly complicated and the story was well written. The game leaves you wanting a little more. It is relatively short and by the end you are just really getting into it. Overall the graphics were not up to "next gen" but not cheesy. GetI found this game enjoyable. As a PS+ subscriber it was free but would have been worth the $15. The concept was new and unique. The puzzles aren't overly complicated and the story was well written. The game leaves you wanting a little more. It is relatively short and by the end you are just really getting into it. Overall the graphics were not up to "next gen" but not cheesy. Get this if you would like a break from the same old kill smash burn of most games.… Expand
  15. Cwhines22
    Jan 5, 2014
    8
    I really enjoyed this game it was free for plus members, I take into account that it's an indie game there are a few glitches but this by no means make it unplayable. I feel that did a good job telling a story and added some really cool control elements to the game. Over all I had a lot of fun playing this game and that's what really matters.
  16. VGrantN
    Jan 14, 2014
    8
    Very cool and unique game, it was definitely worth getting for free with playstation plus. The story is very weird and it has some very weird environments but like I said that's what makes the game unique. This game is not for everybody though.
  17. NkayD
    Jan 22, 2014
    7
    Contrast is beautiful. The graphics aren't the best, but it's beautiful. The short story takes you into the world of imagination in a beautiful sort of dream-like, noir France. The story follows a little girl and her imaginary friend; you. You play as Dawn, and interact through shadows, and it feels good. The gameplay has occasional drops but all in all, it's a good game. The reason I gaveContrast is beautiful. The graphics aren't the best, but it's beautiful. The short story takes you into the world of imagination in a beautiful sort of dream-like, noir France. The story follows a little girl and her imaginary friend; you. You play as Dawn, and interact through shadows, and it feels good. The gameplay has occasional drops but all in all, it's a good game. The reason I gave it a 7 however, is because it's good at it's price point; free. I wouldn't pay for this game, but as a free bonus to playstation plus, it is a welcomed game to my library.… Expand
  18. rickman33
    Jan 27, 2014
    8
    Though Contrast is offered as a free game for the PlayStation 4, I nearly didn't even take the time to install the game. I'm glad I eventually gave did.

    At first (and second glance, even) Contrast seems like a game that has been done over and over, and in a way it is. It's essentially an adventure platformer, but with an original puzzle mechanic. To some extent there have been games    Though Contrast is offered as a free game for the PlayStation 4, I nearly didn't even take the time to install the game. I'm glad I eventually gave did.

    At first (and second glance, even) Contrast seems like a game that has been done over and over, and in a way it is. It's essentially an adventure platformer, but with an original puzzle mechanic. To some extent there have been games in the past that have played with the idea of changing the perspective between a three-dimensional plane and a flat, 2D plane. Paper Mario first comes to mind. Contrast is a little different in that the world retains its 3D form while you transform into a shadow against a wall. Other shadows on walls then play the role of the platforms you must use to access what otherwise would be unreachable for your fleshy human form. This also makes for a few interesting puzzles where you have to control or move light sources around to cast the shadows to get you where you need to go.
    The puzzles aren't too difficult, though I did get hung up on one because I was not aware of something I could do when shifting in or out of a shadow. (I actually had to look up the solution- something I never do- and was a little perturbed when I found out my character had the ability to do something I didn't know I could do). This thing that I did not know was either not explained to me or I had somehow missed it when it was. In any case, most of the time the puzzles involved having to figure out how you would reach a part of the level or how you can get an object (ball or box) to a certain part of the level. Though the puzzle mechanic and the puzzles themselves were fairly interesting, this wasn't necessarily the best part of the game for me.

    What I liked best about the game was the art direction. It's not too often that you find a game set in such a wonderful 1920's vaudevillian dreamscape. The world feels eerily vacant, dreary, yet with a whisper of magic and whimsy. The music gives the game most of its "life" since the dreamworld you traverse while playing the game is void of any characters. Only occasionally will a scene be played out during gameplay- between the shadows of characters, set against the backdrop of a walls to allow your shadow to access a certain area.

    The majority of the story is told through cutscenes between puzzles/acts. The voiceover work isn't spectacular, but it fits the "story" well. The acting is a little hammy, which one would find very much in place in 1920's vaudeville.

    The main distractions of the game are the somewhat clunky controls and that the game feels a little glitchy. I say that it "feels" a little glitchy in that there is nothing I came across that broke the game. Occasionally, I could shadow in and out of places that clearly weren't intended for me to do so (like finding myself standing on nothing, high up in the air against the wall, in human form ). I never got stuck anywhere, and I never was provided any advantage from the glitch, so it didn't really detract too much from the game.

    Contrast is a little short, but it's understandably so, being a free game. Regardless of the brevity of the story and the fact that I'm not an avid, everyday gamer, it still so happens to be the only game that's come about in a few years that I've stuck with to the end. The game has a sliver of replayability in that after you beat the game, you can go back and play any of the levels to collect any items you have missed (there's not too many of them- 29 Luminaries, 26 Collectibles, 21 PSN trophies. You'll need the luminaires to progress in specific parts of the game (though you're not required to gather them all). The collectables aren't needed- they aren't anything special, nor do they really offer any revelation too significant to the story.

    I give Contrast an 8/10 because it is a moody romp in a fantastic film noir-ish dreamworld. Though the controls and glitchiness sometimes keep you from enjoying the game fully for what it is, the game is unique enough with its puzzles and ambience to keep you coming back until you reach its ending, all too soon.

    You may like Contrast if you liked:
    Tomb Raider: Underworld (for its enjoyable adventure and puzzles with somewhat inelegant, glitchy gameplay)
    BioShock: Infinite (for its surreal environments and early 20th century America vibe)    … Expand
  19. djjohnsson
    Jul 15, 2014
    8
    Contrast might not be as clever or challenging as it could have been, or even as it already believes itself to be. Fact is that the so called puzzles are rather easy and the hours of the game scarce. But what it does actually deliever is a beautiful and atmospheric adventure with a nice little message to all of its players.
  20. SLY12
    Nov 21, 2013
    8
    My first completed PS4 game. Nice style, voice acting, graphics and music. The controls aren't as bad as some reviews lead you to believe. The only problems I had encountered was switching into or out of a shadow while jumping, that's it.

    Overall, a very good game especially for free with PS Plus that has a good story too for a puzzle game. I found it interesting all the way through    My first completed PS4 game. Nice style, voice acting, graphics and music. The controls aren't as bad as some reviews lead you to believe. The only problems I had encountered was switching into or out of a shadow while jumping, that's it.

    Overall, a very good game especially for free with PS Plus that has a good story too for a puzzle game. I found it interesting all the way through and fun, which is the main thing.    … Expand
  21. MaKaPa
    Nov 27, 2013
    8
    Contrast is a beautiful, artistic, creative and has unique game play. The title had the potential to be an indie classic, but it is unpolished. I can't help but wonder if its release was rushed just so it could be part of the PS4 launch line up. Hopefully, the game will be patched to fix some of its issues. Nonetheless, I found the title enjoyable. I hope they make a more polished sequel.
  22. 1234marcos
    Nov 15, 2013
    7
    great unique and fascinating games but the boring generic puzzles and most of the gameplay is boring,replay value seems low in my opinion but the story and atmosphere are thrilling!
  23. smoovelai
    Dec 10, 2013
    6
    interesting and impressive features and decent story but i found the game boring

    its style of platforming intigued me to play at first i stopped caring about the story halfway thru then the game just started to get really stale for me
  24. aadms
    Nov 18, 2013
    8
    The only game out of the PS4's launch bundle that is worth downloading. It's a very original formula of platforming and puzzel solving that you'll adjust your shadows or time the shadow movement just right in order to progress. It has an ingaging storyline, set in the 1920s, that is told out in a "bioshock" formate that also blends in well with the dreamscape world that you areThe only game out of the PS4's launch bundle that is worth downloading. It's a very original formula of platforming and puzzel solving that you'll adjust your shadows or time the shadow movement just right in order to progress. It has an ingaging storyline, set in the 1920s, that is told out in a "bioshock" formate that also blends in well with the dreamscape world that you are interacting in. Graphics are up to date. looking excellent on my brand-new PS4, and the voice acting is very well done.… Expand
  25. GeoMarine
    Dec 20, 2013
    3
    Currently broken. I imagine that they were forced to release the game early for Playstation Plus due to 'Driveclub' being delayed. Whatever the reason though, as of the 20th Dec 2013 the game is broken. I got all the way until the end but then the game would not progress, not good for obvious reasons.

    As for the actual game up until that, I think it started off quite enjoyable. I liked    Currently broken. I imagine that they were forced to release the game early for Playstation Plus due to 'Driveclub' being delayed. Whatever the reason though, as of the 20th Dec 2013 the game is broken. I got all the way until the end but then the game would not progress, not good for obvious reasons.

    As for the actual game up until that, I think it started off quite enjoyable. I liked the game mechanic of turning into shadows but eventually this got boring. The story was overall lacking and not worth playing through for. Basically, if you can get the game for free it's worth a shot just to test out how it plays but don't pay any money for it. You'll regret it, believe me. Such a shame for one of the PS4 launch titles.    … Expand
  26. ShinKagato
    Nov 30, 2013
    9
    Contrast is one of the first games to be made available to the Playstation 4 user-base (for free if you have Playstation Plus) and unlike most games at launch this one is not a sequel, a prequel or a game developed by a big third party developer. Its also in this reviewers opinion the best thing available for the console at this time.

    The game itself is set during the 1920s in Paris    Contrast is one of the first games to be made available to the Playstation 4 user-base (for free if you have Playstation Plus) and unlike most games at launch this one is not a sequel, a prequel or a game developed by a big third party developer. Its also in this reviewers opinion the best thing available for the console at this time.

    The game itself is set during the 1920s in Paris and follows the story of Didi and her attempts to get her parents back together after he apparently walked out on them. The player takes control of her imaginary friend Dawn as although Didi has a knack for being able to fix things, she is still just a little girl and doesn’t have the strength to break down doors, pick up heavy objects or turn into a shadow.
    This brings us neatly onto the games primary mechanic, the ability for Dawn to leap into her own shadow and navigate seemingly impossible jumps or unreachable platforms by jumping on the shadows of nearby objects. What is cleaver about this mechanic is that the majority of light sources in the game can be manipulated, so you find the shadow of a bin next to the shadow of a well and its too short, moving the light source back makes the bin's shadow grow longer and just like that, you can reach the platform. There are also some scenes in the game where two characters shadows will be conversing, and you as Dawn will have to become a shadow yourself and use their still moving images to climb previously unessable ledges or leap over great chasms. Every time you encounter this is just as impressive as the first.

    The game has literally dozens of such problems along with some more traditional platforming and physics based puzzles and although challenging, the game never feels too hard or too easy always allowing progress to be made even if you only have enough time to play the game in small intervals. The narrative itself is split into chapters which is segmented further into smaller acts so there is always a natural stopping point just around the corner.

    The games visuals channel a Tim Burton-esq look without going too over the top, the visuals are very style heavy and running on Unreal tech allows them to really pop. This isn’t something that could only be done on PS4, this game could easily have been done on a much less powerful console but its art style look with a heavy contrast between light, dark and the use of primary colour does make it a great looking game regardless.

    The sound design is simply fantastic, the game's splash screen opens with a song that sounds like I was ripped straight from a nightclub of that era and the rest of the game follows suit. Much of the games soundtrack consists more of ambient background noise and only makes itself more obvious when you enter a themed area such as the circus or nightclub where Didi's father works. The voice work for the full cast of the game, even those who are only in a couple of scenes are way beyond what id expect from and indie game which is good because Dawn and Didi are the only characters you can actually see, everyone else are represented as shadows so having an excellent voice cast really helps us in learning who the characters are and what motivates them.

    I was extremely impressed with this game, the attention to detail and level of polish is way beyond what im used to seeing on indie games and if this is the future of this kind of game on PS4 then I am excited to see what else pops up on the service. The game has a very personal tale to tell and a unique way of doing it, if I had to complain about anything it would be the length as I was able to get through the full game with all trophy’s unlocked in just under 4 hours. The ending itself although having a great plot twist, comes very suddenly and the credits roll straight after that. I feel the game could maybe have done with an extra hour or so but what is there is of such high quality already that perhaps padding it out would have been a poor move.

    There are some small glitches when dropping boxes and fading into shadow, thankfully none of these are game breakers but I did find myself frozen whilst a box slid slowly down to the ground or stuck behind a piece of scenery whilst in shadow form on more that one occasion. Both are fairly easy to overcome and do not take away from the games enjoyment too much but do warrant a mention.
    In conclusion, if you have Playstation plus already you already have this game and you owe it to yourself to play through this little gem as soon as possible. If you don’t have Playstation Plus then you should put this at the top of your to buy list, its better than anything else released on the platform this month and is only a fraction of the cost at just over a tenner. This is a prime example of how a small focused team with a modest budget can make something unique and spellbinding without the interfering of a large corporate publisher.    … Expand
  27. phoenix0207
    Nov 16, 2013
    8
    Assisted my wife in playing Contrast. Interesting setting and story with some good puzzles. It does have some control issues, but nothing that breaks the game. Definitely worth a couple hours of your time.
  28. darksoulvii
    Nov 20, 2013
    8
    A fantastic and beautifully stylized game. A joy to play through from start to finish. The only downfall this title as is its length. I just wish this game was longer. Definitely worth a buy and a bonus for PS+ members for whom this title is currently free.
  29. VirgilX
    Nov 22, 2013
    8
    I was surprised to be drawn into Contrast as it seemed a little simplistic for my taste. Once you get a taste of what it is like to switch from a person into a shadow, you might find yourself playing this game all the way through. The game isn't long, so you might finish the game in one sitting.

    You play as Dawn, an imaginary character who is the figment of a little girl's, you guessed    I was surprised to be drawn into Contrast as it seemed a little simplistic for my taste. Once you get a taste of what it is like to switch from a person into a shadow, you might find yourself playing this game all the way through. The game isn't long, so you might finish the game in one sitting.

    You play as Dawn, an imaginary character who is the figment of a little girl's, you guessed it, imagination. Her father is trying to win his family back by proving himself, but ask helped from some loan sharks who are desperate to get their money back. Dawn works with the little girl to get her daddy out of the jam and reunite the family once again.

    The story is simple and straightforward, but it seems to draw you in and make you want to see how everything plays out. The level design reminds me of something from American McGee's Alice or anything in an Alice in Wonderland fiction.

    Considering this game is free if you own PlayStation Plus, it's a pretty good title to jump into in between AAA games. I found myself playing this game the same night I bought my PS4, and it did not disappoint.    … Expand
  30. matt71667
    Nov 16, 2013
    10
    I unique game with really great puzzles and a new and interesting style of game play. It's nice to have a game you can take your time with and not have to play at a blistering speed of impossible hand/eye coordination talents. My entire family has really enjoyed playing this game.
  31. True_Reclaimer
    Mar 17, 2016
    9
    Got every trophy for this game. One of the only puzzle platformers Ive enjoyed, despite strange glitches (most of which actually enhance the gameplay). The only real issue I had was not understanding or timing the puzzle right, but after a few tries even the toughest puzzle is solved. The music was pretty good too.
  32. lMasterBetal
    Nov 16, 2013
    7
    Why should I play a puzzle game on the PS4 when I could just play one on Kongregate. IDK maybe that's my taste but for all of you PS+ players, try it out. You might like the gameplay as it is similar to another Flash Game Puzzle called Shift. I'm going to give it a 7/10 to be lenient because I think my view on Puzzle games is different than other games with a price tag on them.
  33. Marxists
    Nov 19, 2013
    0
    Unique in the sense of how it pops when you begin to play it, but the overdone puzzles and repetitive game play hamper what is a visually good looking game.
  34. FriedConsole
    Feb 5, 2014
    4
    This game is not good. Wonky controls. Ugly visuals. Puzzles that aren't even very interesting. Lots of just walking around trying to figure out what to do next. Boring.
  35. Lozsta
    Mar 10, 2014
    0
    Utterly horrible. Played it for a while, ghastly horrible game I wish it would never have even entered someone's head to create.

    It is just completely a non entity. As for a replacement for Drive club at release... I am astounded it made it in. Such a bad game. Don't even waste the band width downloading
  36. Storm1672
    May 12, 2014
    7
    A beautiful, original, atmospheric fairy tale of a little girl trying to have a family. The concept is great and it is laid out pretty well and woven into the story with care. The story is quite interesting and quite realistic in spite of the pretty artsy look. It's a well thought drama, that incorporates the player to feel as a piece of its world.

    The gameplay supports the concept in a    A beautiful, original, atmospheric fairy tale of a little girl trying to have a family. The concept is great and it is laid out pretty well and woven into the story with care. The story is quite interesting and quite realistic in spite of the pretty artsy look. It's a well thought drama, that incorporates the player to feel as a piece of its world.

    The gameplay supports the concept in a wonderful way, although the platforming sections could expand in more ways with such a great concept to back it. The exploration feels great as the game has a nice and original atmoshpere and really invites you to explore the world. Too bad that it's a small world with the whole game expanding to about 4 hours.

    It's worst aspect is the technical one. The framedrops can get nasty and the controls feel slippery, which is not a good thing for a platformer.

    If it had more of the same ideas so that it could last longer and had it been more polished, it would be truly great.

    It stands as it is though, on the top with the other excellent art-oriented indie titles of the last few years, such as Brothers, Papo & Yo, Journey, Unfinished Swan, etc.    … Expand
  37. Teh_Beavs
    Nov 21, 2013
    6
    Interesting gameplay with being able to travel into shadows. Unfortunately the game is plagued by numerous bugs, i had about 3 minutes of gameplay left when i ran into a bug i could not get past. reloading the level over and over again eventually got tiring and I gave up. Give it a shot if you can pick it up for free but otherwise steer clear if thinking about putting money down on this game.
  38. Steyraus
    Jul 30, 2014
    2
    Contrast was one of the first games I played on the PS4 and what a terrible way to be introduced to a new system. Im not a huge fan of puzzle games but when they are done right they can be very enjoyable. Contrast adds a slight twist of puzzles that occur once or twice in other better games. The game play graphics and story were painfully bland and uninspired to the point of being a choreContrast was one of the first games I played on the PS4 and what a terrible way to be introduced to a new system. Im not a huge fan of puzzle games but when they are done right they can be very enjoyable. Contrast adds a slight twist of puzzles that occur once or twice in other better games. The game play graphics and story were painfully bland and uninspired to the point of being a chore to play.… Expand
  39. BenTheWicked
    Nov 18, 2013
    2
    I would give this game a 5 or 6 if it were on the PS3. There is absolutely no reason for it to be on the PS4. I enjoy the puzzles, and the platforming is fine. However, the story is just kind of there. I wanted this game to take me to narrative realms that I've never explored before. Instead, it was an excuse to check out new environments. The only good part of this game is that it's free.
  40. Hunkpapa
    Nov 19, 2013
    6
    I wanted to give this game a 10. It is an amazing concept with a simply gorgeous art style! Unfortunately, there are far to many glitches that makes some puzzles really frustrating and downright annoying. Putting down boxes always made my character get stuck for a few moments as she and the box tried to occupy the same space. Also, the story never made me really care or feel much ofI wanted to give this game a 10. It is an amazing concept with a simply gorgeous art style! Unfortunately, there are far to many glitches that makes some puzzles really frustrating and downright annoying. Putting down boxes always made my character get stuck for a few moments as she and the box tried to occupy the same space. Also, the story never made me really care or feel much of anything. Still, I would highly recommend this game since it is a truly unique experience.… Expand
  41. joaopontesvaz
    May 29, 2014
    5
    Graphics: 5.5 Sound: 5.0 Gameplay: 4.5 Fun/Story: 6.0

    Fairly game. The stylish´s not bad at all but the execution of the idea it´s not well done. Controls, physics and collision aspects are very poor.
  42. Tresidentevil
    Dec 2, 2013
    6
    Really good ideas in places, but seems rushed overall.

    I love the graphical/artistic style in this game atmospheric film noir inspired 1920's. Perhaps not so unique these days but certainly works. The idea of phasing in and out of shadows is a nice idea and provides some interesting puzzles but doesn't really go beyond that, couldn't they have done more with it? Exploring the little    Really good ideas in places, but seems rushed overall.

    I love the graphical/artistic style in this game atmospheric film noir inspired 1920's. Perhaps not so unique these days but certainly works. The idea of phasing in and out of shadows is a nice idea and provides some interesting puzzles but doesn't really go beyond that, couldn't they have done more with it? Exploring the little world is nice at first but is just limited in scope this extends to the story line. Special note however to the fantastic music, really adds to the atmosphere.

    Unfortunately the game really lacks depth, that's why I tend to think it was rushed. In addition to this everything seems to be on rails and very linear. The only thing breaking that up is the series of puzzles this simply isn't enough. Story line is somewhat decent/compelling but very predictable.    … Expand
  43. loadstone007
    Dec 8, 2013
    7
    Eek. The premise of the game, a shadow-inspired platformer, is OK and not too exciting. Game has some bugs and is not very fun to play, especially since there are lots of top games like Killzone Shadow Fall and Assassin's Creed Black Flag. You get the game for free with PS+, so this makes this game just fine. Get it and try for yourself.
  44. drlowdon
    Dec 19, 2016
    7
    A puzzle-platformer Contrast is a rather ugly looking game with slightly fiddly controls but the shadow based puzzles are very clever at times (and the logic behind them always consistent) and it is able to tell an affecting story in just 3-4 hours of gameplay without resorting to long cut scenes. It’s far from perfect but, now that all the bugs and glitches have been patched out, it’sA puzzle-platformer Contrast is a rather ugly looking game with slightly fiddly controls but the shadow based puzzles are very clever at times (and the logic behind them always consistent) and it is able to tell an affecting story in just 3-4 hours of gameplay without resorting to long cut scenes. It’s far from perfect but, now that all the bugs and glitches have been patched out, it’s worth playing if you can find it relatively cheap.… Expand
  45. Jimmydm90
    Nov 18, 2013
    6
    Though it's not a game I'd pay for, Contrast provided around 5 hours of gameplay and some interesting puzzles/game mechanics. By about the half way mark the game starts to become pretty repetitive. None of the characters are all that dimensional with some of them being down right unlikable. The game's biggest problem is a lack of variety and a glitchy control system that can at times beThough it's not a game I'd pay for, Contrast provided around 5 hours of gameplay and some interesting puzzles/game mechanics. By about the half way mark the game starts to become pretty repetitive. None of the characters are all that dimensional with some of them being down right unlikable. The game's biggest problem is a lack of variety and a glitchy control system that can at times be VERY frustrating. The setting and style are both interesting but I would have like to see them do more to make the world feel lived in.… Expand
  46. MrScratch
    Apr 26, 2020
    8
    I want to recommend this game. Yes, it needs a polish here and there (especially the mechanics), but it's worth the time. The world and character design, music, story... it all fits together. All combined were able to immerse me until the very end. The game is short and it can be finished in two sittings, but I recommend playing it slow and enjoy what it has to offer.
  47. mosessaur
    Jan 5, 2014
    6
    The game is fine. Just little bit buggy and dodgy sometimes. However I enjoyed the story. It was 7hrs of game play to collect all the trophies. I was happy with at the end. But can't really give it more than 6.
    Interesting puzzles that I really liked. Playing with shadows and switching between 2D and 3D was interesting.
  48. Arcendus
    Jan 24, 2014
    7
    A unique experience with a clever idea and relatively poor execution. As I understand many of the initial bugs have been patched, but playing the game as it was originally released led to plenty of frustration in terms of the character getting stuck somewhere, being able to "cheat" using shadows, etc.

    However, it's a short enough experience that it deserves a play through, not to    A unique experience with a clever idea and relatively poor execution. As I understand many of the initial bugs have been patched, but playing the game as it was originally released led to plenty of frustration in terms of the character getting stuck somewhere, being able to "cheat" using shadows, etc.

    However, it's a short enough experience that it deserves a play through, not to mention the obvious appeal of it being free to PS+ subscribers at the moment.

    It wasn't a particularly memorable game, but I had fun with it.    … Expand
  49. Magnifico
    Jan 20, 2014
    7
    I enjoyed playing Contrast from the start, story kept me playing till the end and I love the puzzles using the shadows. Voice acting too was surprisingly good. I did have a problem with glitches quite often, and the movement mechanics maybe could've been more fluent and smoother.
  50. grenouille
    Jul 9, 2015
    5
    Not much to say about this one. Game has some game-breaking bugs 1.5 years after release (had to repeat an entire act of the game because of one issue). Gameplay does not take full advantage of the shadow mechanic, movement is buggy, and platforming does not feel good at all. The story started out as serviceable, but was absolutely pointless by the end of the game (I just stopped caringNot much to say about this one. Game has some game-breaking bugs 1.5 years after release (had to repeat an entire act of the game because of one issue). Gameplay does not take full advantage of the shadow mechanic, movement is buggy, and platforming does not feel good at all. The story started out as serviceable, but was absolutely pointless by the end of the game (I just stopped caring somewhere midway through). Soundtrack is pretty good though.… Expand
  51. JBryant0619
    Jan 30, 2014
    7
    Fun little game. There's not much of a challenge though (unless you count the Puppet Show adventure) Puzzles also aren't that difficult. Story was alright although I was confused on why Dawn and her little friend were the only people in the game not represented by shadows. Free for Plus Members to check out but everyone else should wait for a price drop.
  52. Skullz
    Feb 5, 2014
    7
    Such a cute little game! While most of the games on the PS4 look brilliant this one is no exception, a fifties styled game with a neat little concept. Welcome to the Shadow Dimension. A little indie puzzler with a cool concept, slightly repetitive puzzles and glitchy physics comes all together for a cute little experience. The story is sweet also. A very child friendly game, and a greatSuch a cute little game! While most of the games on the PS4 look brilliant this one is no exception, a fifties styled game with a neat little concept. Welcome to the Shadow Dimension. A little indie puzzler with a cool concept, slightly repetitive puzzles and glitchy physics comes all together for a cute little experience. The story is sweet also. A very child friendly game, and a great one for the kids to play in my opinion and even for adults who enjoy a short puzzler every now and then. While a few things take away from the gameplay it's not as bad as I thought it would be.… Expand
  53. Kriostyx
    Dec 27, 2014
    0
    This is utter trash. The game has some interesting aesthetic design going for it and the story itself is somewhat interesting, but the game is designed as a 2D / 3D platformer/puzzle solving game. And the jumping mechanics, physics engine and controls in general just can't hack what the game throws at you. For the entire runtime of the game you will be bangin your head against the wallThis is utter trash. The game has some interesting aesthetic design going for it and the story itself is somewhat interesting, but the game is designed as a 2D / 3D platformer/puzzle solving game. And the jumping mechanics, physics engine and controls in general just can't hack what the game throws at you. For the entire runtime of the game you will be bangin your head against the wall with every single jumping puzzle, since the game keeps bugging out and dropping you into endless pits against it's own rules. The jumping also has no concept of momentum, it seems that both gravity and the continuity of motion sort of come and go based on pure chance. You have a dash mechanic that will cause you to fall to your doom without fail, since even when you actually reach the platform you were supposed to go to, the game decides to throw you down by the means of glitching. The controls are the worst controls of any game this side of Sonic 2006. Jumping very simply again does_not_work. And running and camera control is so wildly sensitive that you will end up just darting everywhere even if you are just thinking of moving the thumbsticks. Every puzzle is a lesson in frustration and they will eventually make you ragequit this game and go outside for a walk and hope that this idea of a game would have been made by some other dev team. There is no fun to be found here. Avoid at all costs.… Expand
  54. wike
    Jan 8, 2014
    6
    Una sombra que parece desvanecerse ante sus propios errores.

    Nos encontramos frente a uno de los títulos que acompañan al PS4 en su lanzamiento, y tal como el estilo gráfico que maneja, nos entrega varios claroscuros en cuanto al modo de juego. Contrast es un adventure/puzzle, el cual nos cuenta una historia ambientada en una versión surrealista Tim Burtoneana de los años 20’s, con    Una sombra que parece desvanecerse ante sus propios errores.

    Nos encontramos frente a uno de los títulos que acompañan al PS4 en su lanzamiento, y tal como el estilo gráfico que maneja, nos entrega varios claroscuros en cuanto al modo de juego.

    Contrast es un adventure/puzzle, el cual nos cuenta una historia ambientada en una versión surrealista Tim Burtoneana de los años 20’s, con tonos oscuros y abismos entre calle y calle, los cuales podrán gustarnos o no, pero le dan una personalidad única al juego.

    La gente de Compulsion Games nos mete en su mundo sin avisarnos, ni pedirnos permiso, ya que apenas comenzar el juego, no sabemos nada de nuestro personaje, solo vemos a la pequeña Didi, quien parece conocernos mejor que nosotros mismos.

    Toda la trama gira en torno a ella y su historia familiar, pero durante la misma, iremos descubriendo cosas de nuestro personaje, una chica de apariencia delgada y oscura, pero a su vez fuerte y amigable.

    El título se maneja en tercera persona, pero la dinámica principal no solo es caminar o saltar en este mundo bizarro, sino que se centra en nuestra habilidad de convertirnos en sombra, utilizando así las siluetas de las demás personas u objetos para resolver diversos acertijos y poder continuar con la historia.

    Durante las diversas acciones del juego, deberemos de alcanzar alguna plataforma lejana, mover cajas, apretar switches y jugar con las luces para entonces poder cruzar a través de las sombras que los diversos objetos proyectan.

    Podemos decir que la idea de Contrast es entregarnos un puzzle artístico e innovador, y lo logra, solo que parece que al enfocarse en estos aspectos descuidaron otros, como el control y la física de los objetos.

    Algunos saltos que pudieran ser simples, llegan a complicarse por estar luchando con controlar a nuestro personaje, además de que será muy común durante todo el juego, el ver que quedamos atrapados entre el gráfico de la pared o inclusive al momento de dejar las cajas que cargamos.

    Todos estos errores dan al traste con las buenas intenciones del juego, denotando así un pobre proceso de testeo durante su desarrollo, ya sea por las prisas de tenerlo listo para el lanzamiento o por la falta de experiencia de sus creadores.

    Musicalmente Contrast cumple al sumergirnos en el estilo noir de su propio mundo, destacando la canción de cabaret que interpreta la mamá de Didi.

    Contrast está disponible como título de lanzamiento en PS4,llegando de manera gratuita a los usuarios con PS Plus, pero también saldrá para PC, Xbox 360 y PS3, por lo que se hace más evidente que no fue desarrollado para la Next-Gen y solo entro al quite después del retraso de Driveclub.    … Expand
  55. Game_Row
    Nov 16, 2014
    8
    It's a good puzzle game using light and shadows. Story is weird but based in the 40's-50's. Don't expect an action packed game. This game is mostly for the "sit down"/casual gamer. I enjoyed it. I wouldn't pay more than $7.99 though. Try it our Amigos!

    -Game_Row
  56. Krobolt
    Mar 21, 2014
    5
    Combining stylish visuals and a unique gameplay style, Contrast is full of promise combining both 3D and 2D platforming. The game, however, fails to entice any further than its unique design. Each step forward is quickly followed by two steps back. Unique gameplay styles are halted by a short campaign and beautiful visuals are crafted around a glitchy and empty world. What sounds like anCombining stylish visuals and a unique gameplay style, Contrast is full of promise combining both 3D and 2D platforming. The game, however, fails to entice any further than its unique design. Each step forward is quickly followed by two steps back. Unique gameplay styles are halted by a short campaign and beautiful visuals are crafted around a glitchy and empty world. What sounds like an excellent experience on the surface, Contrast ends up feelings like a shadow of what could’ve been a great game.

    You play as Dawn, Didi’s powerful imaginary friend who can phase between a 3D model as well as a shadow amongst the walls. Dawn acts as Didi’s guardian and travels with her on her adventures. Didi sneaks out one night to watch her mother perform and finds her father whom she hasn’t seen in a long time. It is here Dawn and Didi journey throughout the night to find out the mystery behind what happened to her father and how Didi can help mend their broken family.

    Throughout the game, players will alter lights to form and shape shadows so Dawn may traverse forward. These create unique sequences as its challenges players to think within two dimensions, the light world as well as the shadows. At the push of a button Dawn can blend into the shadows and platform along the shaping. This gives players a new way of looking at the world as everything within the room should be given attention as everything gives off a shadow. What may appear as a small piece of geometry can actually attain a large shadow that can help players reach their next objectives.

    Contrast doesn’t have much life outside of the puzzles. There are small collectibles here and there that give the world a bit of backstory such as newspaper clippings. There are also “Luminaries” outside of the world that are required to progress through the story. These are easy to find around the Hub world and take little effort in requiring enough to proceed. Aside from the small amount of collectables, you will be walking around the lifeless streets in search of your next objectives. The Hub world has such little personality other than the landmarks of key story moments such as a circus complete with a live shadow puppet show and pirate ship as well as a cabaret show with neon lights acting as its beacon in the night. The visuals and set pieces are beautifully made in itself but behind the curtain is only empty streets and darken buildings.

    The game itself however is very short, clocking in at around three hours. The puzzles aren’t too difficult so players won’t be scratching their heads for very long within each sequence. The main difficulty to the game is trying to complete sequences around the glitch riddled world. There were numerous times throughout my play through where my character would detach from the shadows only to be launched several stories into the air. As I pushed my character forward towards what appeared to be the correct way to completing a puzzle only met with Dawn attempting to phase out of the shadows and start to tremble wildly, sometimes even being oddly teleported to safety.

    Contrast is a game that is full of ambitious designs but is left feeling empty overall. The puzzles are few with low replay value giving players little reason to return. Overall however Contrast shows that it is unique enough that players should experience it as a whole. Its story may leave some with more questions than answers but its gameplay style and attractive visuals give Contrast plenty of heart.    … Expand
  57. GrassDaemeon
    Dec 12, 2013
    3
    Thi sgame has very good ideas. i played it for about an hour and i Just could notlike this. it looks like it's trying to have an interesting art style but it looks ugly to me.as i played on all i could think of is how repetitive the puzzles are. The whole time i was playing this all i could think of was the new Zelda A Link Between Worlds because it has a simmilar game mechanic. but theThi sgame has very good ideas. i played it for about an hour and i Just could notlike this. it looks like it's trying to have an interesting art style but it looks ugly to me.as i played on all i could think of is how repetitive the puzzles are. The whole time i was playing this all i could think of was the new Zelda A Link Between Worlds because it has a simmilar game mechanic. but the new zelda had more than just morphing into walls.… Expand
  58. EdenChi
    Dec 1, 2013
    7
    Very good free game, a good hobby. Graphically is correct and the story is nice. And small enigmes are fun. The gameplay is not great but affordable for a free game.
  59. Gryhok
    Dec 3, 2013
    7
    Great gameplay concept, great story, great art and mood. However, many bugs and some strange design decisions prevent this game from reaching its true potential of being an indie classic.
  60. Rowlystravel
    Dec 6, 2013
    6
    I liked the art, the sound, story was pretty nice and it was quite an entertaining game. However, way too many bugs and glitches from being trapped in small spaces, boxes being lowered slowly to the ground, random character freezes during object interactions. I also did not like the fact that there are no people, only shadows (makes no sense anyway but in guess the protagonist is a shadowI liked the art, the sound, story was pretty nice and it was quite an entertaining game. However, way too many bugs and glitches from being trapped in small spaces, boxes being lowered slowly to the ground, random character freezes during object interactions. I also did not like the fact that there are no people, only shadows (makes no sense anyway but in guess the protagonist is a shadow jumper) it is eerie and not in a good way, it feels hollow. It was a bit hand holdish in places too.

    That said I liked the concept and it isn't a bad game so in my view deserves more than 5. I think a 6 is fair. The game 'should have been" like the princess scene. That was fun. Like a 2d Cave style platformer

    I don't normally go back to games but given it is such a short game I may try and get all the trophies    … Expand
  61. ITZZZPERRY
    Jul 15, 2015
    6
    Contrast is an artful experience for many to experience. The only problem that it has is that it fades to darkness too often and is bogged down by bugs.
  62. BryanCalabro
    Dec 15, 2013
    7
    Great start on the PS4 system but it was a tad buggy with the glowing boxes. I loved the story, concept of moving through shadows and the art style. I wish it was twice as long, a lot more challenging and had a couple different environments to play through though.
  63. Steeliosis
    Jan 1, 2014
    7
    I have played little of this game, but from what I've seen it has it's ups and downs. Something which could be considered somewhat in the middle is some weird spiraling transition between being cutesy and adorable, a tale about a young girl and her seemingly cross dimensional friend. It then transitions into a darker half, about divorce and abuse and shady gentleman who, from what I couldI have played little of this game, but from what I've seen it has it's ups and downs. Something which could be considered somewhat in the middle is some weird spiraling transition between being cutesy and adorable, a tale about a young girl and her seemingly cross dimensional friend. It then transitions into a darker half, about divorce and abuse and shady gentleman who, from what I could gather, seem to be some kind of loan sharks. It does this well, but I am still deciding whether or not I like it. You play as the shadowy friend who seems to only be able to see the remnants of people through the shadows they cast. The only person you see clearly is the young girl, who seems to kind of have one foot in one dimension, and then the other in the opposite, hence being able to see both you and everyone else. This is just an assumption, however; the game is far too surreal to pinpoint exactly what is happening,and I guess I must complete it to fully appreciate it.

    Overall, the game makes good use of puzzling situations and some rather emotional story telling. The game has already lost me, so I guess I need to complete it to understand it. The gameplay itself is unique, but can feel a bit dull and plastic, just wandering around a city which has been designed with a fantastic art style in mind, but seems somehow cheap and thrown together in a rush. I do like this game, but I do not strictly love it as such. Perhaps I'm just maturing to a state at which I am incredibly picky with which games I play and wholly enjoy.

    My final verdict; a good game with great mechanics and fantastic story telling, not to mention the stunning art style and surreal world design, but seems to lack flow and full player involvement.    … Expand
  64. OMGtoasty
    Jan 6, 2014
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Contrast is one of the more unusual games that I have played. The game itself takes only a few hours to play through. The story itself is entertaining. You play as a invisible person named Dawn who accompanies a little girl while she tries to bring her family back together. Its simple and somewhat of a cliche. The father was kicked out because he was a con man. The daughter believed he just left. The mother is the worst character seeing as she jumps from pushing away the father one minute and then clinging to him the next minute. All of the characters in the story except for you and the girl are shadows. Thats right, they only show up as black figures on walls. There's more that happens, but I won't spoil it all for you. Enough about the story.

    Contrast is a puzzel game. Unlike other puzzel games, contrast takes to the shadows. That mechanic itself was appealing enough for me to start playing it in the first place. As you progress in the story, you come across obstacles that would otherwise be inaccessible without your shadow ability. Even with that ability you will sometimes need to take crates with you into the shadows in order to complete some areas. The game doesn't really have a tutorial to speak of, so you will be left figuring out some tricks on your own. Even with the lack of help, the obstacles re never to tough for you to finish. In fact, most of the game was pretty easy to beat. The main reason I finished was the game was to see what happened at the end of the story, which for the most part was predictable except for one small part at the very end.

    Overall the game was interesting enough for at least one play through. Sadly the game has no replay-ability unless there was something you missed in the story. The voice acting was good and the visuals were spectacular. It was a great effort buy the developers and I would really like to see more content by them. They just need some more practice. The game is worth every penny. I have PlayStation plus so I didn't have to pay for it.    … Expand
  65. masterjohnson1
    Jan 22, 2014
    6
    I don't know what it is about contrast but I just couldn't get into the game. The puzzels where ok, it looks fine and the voice acting was great but the game as a whole had some problems for me.
    I would recomend it to people who love puzels and nobody else
  66. georgegmarino
    Jan 19, 2014
    6
    An interesting idea but as other reviews have said, it feels rushed. I think a lot of this is down to the fact that they were forced to be a Playstation Plus freebie for the release date of the PS4. Driveclub had some setbacks and this was pushed forward instead, quite an afterthought.

    I think the trailer captures it's style and mood perfectly, I'd recommend watching that and if you're    An interesting idea but as other reviews have said, it feels rushed. I think a lot of this is down to the fact that they were forced to be a Playstation Plus freebie for the release date of the PS4. Driveclub had some setbacks and this was pushed forward instead, quite an afterthought.

    I think the trailer captures it's style and mood perfectly, I'd recommend watching that and if you're intrigued then pick it up. If not, give it a pass.    … Expand
  67. wellspokenman
    May 22, 2014
    6
    I want to give it more than a 6, but the bugs are dragging the score down. Good sound, acting, script, amazing art and concept, better than average puzzles, but some frankly inexcusable bugs. The one that really ruined it for me was the final step of the final puzzle wouldn't trigger. Had to hit the forums to find out it was a bug - restart from a long way back and cross my fingers that itI want to give it more than a 6, but the bugs are dragging the score down. Good sound, acting, script, amazing art and concept, better than average puzzles, but some frankly inexcusable bugs. The one that really ruined it for me was the final step of the final puzzle wouldn't trigger. Had to hit the forums to find out it was a bug - restart from a long way back and cross my fingers that it didn't repeat. Luckily it didn't, but it really epitomised my entire experience with Contrast. Just as it's about to take your breath away with amazing visuals and story, it brings you crashing back to earth with its half cooked buggy gameplay.… Expand
  68. xRapture
    Mar 17, 2014
    7
    VERY GOOD - The game is interesting and even though there are a few glitches the experience is worth while. The concept is original and the story gives a unique vibe from the start screen. The style and music go great with the setting of the game. Definitely a game to complete.
  69. roshi82
    Aug 17, 2014
    7
    The visuals in this game are gorgeous. I love the setting. I love the idea! Being an imaginary friend. I thought Dawn was a great character and that little girl was very annoying. Sometimes the game could be a bit buggy but no real dramas with anything. It was fun figuring out the puzzles but what I really REALLY wanted from this game was the opportunity to explore more. If this gameThe visuals in this game are gorgeous. I love the setting. I love the idea! Being an imaginary friend. I thought Dawn was a great character and that little girl was very annoying. Sometimes the game could be a bit buggy but no real dramas with anything. It was fun figuring out the puzzles but what I really REALLY wanted from this game was the opportunity to explore more. If this game was a huge open world with heaps of collectables I would have loved it way more. But anyway. Great game! Not very long but great idea. While not everyone enjoyed this I would say get it if it was on sale! I paid full price for it and will play it through a second time to collect everything and get all the trophies. :)… Expand
  70. Karimchii
    Mar 31, 2014
    6
    The concept of this game was very cool, the shifting between normal game play and being a shadow using shadows (sorry was hard to explain) was very unique. The puzzles were great and the developers clearly put a lot of effort into the game. The main character has a cool design and the story-line is pretty good.

    However the game play is spoiled by the glitches, unfortunately there was a    The concept of this game was very cool, the shifting between normal game play and being a shadow using shadows (sorry was hard to explain) was very unique. The puzzles were great and the developers clearly put a lot of effort into the game. The main character has a cool design and the story-line is pretty good.

    However the game play is spoiled by the glitches, unfortunately there was a major glitch near to the end, where it wouldn't let you advance to the final level, so I ended up having to restart from the last checkpoint about 5 times until it eventually let me play the next level. It also had a few minor glitches when jumping and would sometimes lead to getting a bit frustrated and learning where there was a few invisible walls where the character would get hit/blocked by when jumping.

    Overall was worth a play and did enjoy the game, needs quite a few improvements, so a 6/10    … Expand
  71. Artur95
    Jan 26, 2015
    9
    Why is this game receiving to much hate? I don't remember the game having glitchy problems. I recommend this because the gameplay is incredibly fun, also the puzzles are interesting and sometimes a little bit hard. The story is good, i liked it a lot (won't spoil).

    This game was one of my first tries on PS4 and i had lot of hours of fun and made me fall more in love with indies.
  72. juancmontoya2
    Feb 27, 2015
    9
    This game brings back some 3D platforming along with 2D and it does it wonderfully. If only a bit more time was given to the game to really flesh it out and some more testing to fix the glitches I think it could of been a 10 but the game was still very enjoyable, so if you like platformers then you should give this game a try.
  73. Nel
    Dec 11, 2016
    5
    Was fun to play until it got riddled with crashes, and game breaking bugs. The idea was great, but the execution was for from perfect. Wasted potential
  74. seriimac
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    Game is seriously underrated. It's one of the best indies alltime. I played on PS3 and it was for me a 7 or less, but now on PS4 it feels more better. And then I compared with Journey, now, after a lot of indies ahead, this is a really really good game.
  75. Lazlo21
    Jul 27, 2015
    6
    Contrast (which i got for free) was the first game i had played on my PS4. It honestly did not make me feel like i was playing a next generation game. The concept is actually very interesting. You play as a girl's imaginary friend who can morph in and out of shadows. You use this power to solve puzzles, some of which were pretty difficult, especially towards the end of the game.

    The    Contrast (which i got for free) was the first game i had played on my PS4. It honestly did not make me feel like i was playing a next generation game. The concept is actually very interesting. You play as a girl's imaginary friend who can morph in and out of shadows. You use this power to solve puzzles, some of which were pretty difficult, especially towards the end of the game.

    The graphics do not look good. Yes, i just go ahead and drop it like that. I did not think it looked appealing, especially considering this is a PS4 game. It just didn't click with me. The gameplay is fun though. I enjoyed solving puzzles in the "shadow world". There are box puzzles though. That is where the game drags, having to pick up boxes, move boxes, move them again. Also there is a fair share of bugs and glitches, some forcing me to restart the game. On a final note, i love the 1920's atmosphere of the setting.

    Contrast is not a game i can really recommend, or i would go back and play again myself. 6/10    … Expand
  76. erhankzk
    Oct 4, 2015
    6
    i liked it. i like its colors and gameplay. but it is really short. there can be a lot of episodes with this gameplay. too bad. i finished it in 3 hours.
  77. Professorfett
    Jun 8, 2019
    5
    Overall it isn't a bad game it has some pretty big flaws in gameplay, characters and making an interesting story. If you can get it for free I'd say check it out but any amount of money for this is too much. I give this a 2.5 out of 5.
  78. PSGaming
    May 30, 2021
    6
    It is the type of games that are short.Maybe its me, but i didn't understand the narrative.Art style is great,and the gameplay mechanics with the shadow warping is unique for me.

Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Best PS4 Game of 2013
12
#12 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2013
25
#25 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
59

Mixed or average reviews - based on 39 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 39
  2. Mixed: 28 out of 39
  3. Negative: 6 out of 39
  1. Playstation Official Magazine Australia
    Mar 3, 2014
    65
    Great idea, not so great execution. Contrast's really only suited for the hardcore puzzle lover. [January 2014, p82]
  2. CD-Action
    Feb 10, 2014
    40
    Calling a game with a gameplay based on shadows a shadow of what it could’ve been is a cheap trick. So is joking that Contrast contrasts with the vision of itself depicted in the previews and press releases. Still I couldn’t resist to do both because what we got is a half-baked mediocrity that has too little good moments but loads of wasted potential. [02/2014, p.62]
  3. XGN
    Jan 3, 2014
    50
    Contrast could have been a great game, but it feels too rushed. The controls are stiff and the platform elements aren´t that challenging. And we aren´t even talking about the countless bugs we found in the game.
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