Oxenfree

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 110 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 82 out of 110
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 110
  3. Negative: 11 out of 110

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  1. Almighty_David
    Aug 9, 2016
    7
    Oxenfree is flawed but still an enjoyable experience and one of the better "walking simulators" I've played so far.

    After reading some mediocre reviews I was skeptical going in, but I was positively surprised by how well written and interesting the dialogue and the characters were and I was intrigued by the choices I was offered, because they seemed to be more substantial than in most    Oxenfree is flawed but still an enjoyable experience and one of the better "walking simulators" I've played so far.

    After reading some mediocre reviews I was skeptical going in, but I was positively surprised by how well written and interesting the dialogue and the characters were and I was intrigued by the choices I was offered, because they seemed to be more substantial than in most other games in this genre.

    The story, however, ultimately was disappointing and it felt (too) "dumbed down", like they were constantly sacrificing depth just to make it as easy to follow as possible for everybody.

    The whole game is pretty simplistic in general and I liked that about Oxenfree, but some people might feel a little underwhelmed or even bored by the lack of challenge and sophistication.

    The biggest problem for me was that the game makes promises in the first half that it just can't deliver on in the second half, because in the beginning the story appears to be pretty fascinating and mind-bending, but that only leads to a much greater let-down when it eventually turns into something very unoriginal and predictable and ends in a completely unsatisfying way.

    All that being said though, I'm still glad I bought this roughly four hour long adventure (on sale), because I really enjoyed the dialogue and since I was given a good number and variety of choices throughout I even thought it had some decent replay value.    … Expand
  2. Nexre
    Nov 5, 2016
    8
    Good story, little confusing and could do with random, not story driven dialogue so when you get lost you dont get bored, couple times i felt like just quitting because some bits required a lot of walking.

    Otherwise great story and great dialogue, voices were a bit "studio" rather than walking around in the woods but whatever
  3. Shibanima
    Apr 1, 2021
    0
    Lot of bugs that freezes the game, and trophy doesn't pop correctly, rendering an entire playthrough wasted. Zero gameplay, zero charm, 100% trash. Can't believe I wasted real money and time on this.
  4. rodericrinehart
    Jan 21, 2017
    9
    I was very pleasantly surprised playing this game. It was just fun to play from start to finish, at about 7 hours. A perfect length with almost no padding or busy-work or anything that distracted from the game.

    The artists had a vision, and delivered it graphically, musically, and through the dialogue. The soundtrack was great - right there with Bastion, Fez, FTL, and many other    I was very pleasantly surprised playing this game. It was just fun to play from start to finish, at about 7 hours. A perfect length with almost no padding or busy-work or anything that distracted from the game.

    The artists had a vision, and delivered it graphically, musically, and through the dialogue. The soundtrack was great - right there with Bastion, Fez, FTL, and many other memorable ones.

    A really great sci-fi, supernatural, suspenseful, psychological thriller, Basically an episode of The Twilight Zone, Outer Limits, or Black Mirror.    … Expand
  5. keanex
    Mar 30, 2017
    8
    Oxenfree was recommended to me as a fan of Life is Strange and Gone Home. While the story is a supernatural "thriller," I fully understood why by the end of the game. The story is well paced, and when things get hectic I found myself wondering what would happen next. There are some easy puzzles, but the focus on the game is the story telling and character development - even though it'sOxenfree was recommended to me as a fan of Life is Strange and Gone Home. While the story is a supernatural "thriller," I fully understood why by the end of the game. The story is well paced, and when things get hectic I found myself wondering what would happen next. There are some easy puzzles, but the focus on the game is the story telling and character development - even though it's hard to tell what is what at times.

    The ending of the story is phenomenal. I admit I barely cared about the characters initially, but the ending made me want to play through it a second time. Speaking of the ending, there are a few ways it can flesh itself out and a New Game+ allows for a slightly different story the proceeding times around.

    I got this for $10 and it's well worth it. I plan to play through again at a later date, but for now it will sit on my hard drive while I digest it.    … Expand
  6. traskular
    Mar 27, 2018
    10
    Thought it was going to be another "Firewatch" waste of time. Slow start, but wow, what a finish. Do yourself a favor and play this. I've been playing games for 30 years, and this holds the intellectual merits of a great game.
  7. raulacho
    Dec 29, 2017
    8
    Honestly this game scared me more than other 'Scary' games have ever done, i loved everything, dialogues, atmosphere, story is a little confusing but is all about the characters, the ending was great. Great game.
  8. SuperDuck23
    May 28, 2017
    8
    While the gameplay itself is hardly thrilling, this distinctive game makes up for that with other interesting elements. Because of an inventive story, great characters and neat design, Oxenfree is well worth playing.
  9. TroikaP999
    Jan 28, 2017
    8
    Flawed plenty but with a lovely story and realistic characters and realistic acting. It feels bland occasionally and I'm not sure why. Overall, it's worth a try, but I'm not sure it's worth the twenty dollar price tag.
  10. aew3
    Apr 4, 2017
    9
    Oxenfree is slow and its only game mechanic is tuning in a radio. But Oxenfree is a great example of how video games can tell stories - and it uses the objectively most realistic conversation system ever created. The characters uhm and ahh, and the conversation never stops for you - allowing you to cut others off, or keep your silence if you miss your opportunity. Its story excels inOxenfree is slow and its only game mechanic is tuning in a radio. But Oxenfree is a great example of how video games can tell stories - and it uses the objectively most realistic conversation system ever created. The characters uhm and ahh, and the conversation never stops for you - allowing you to cut others off, or keep your silence if you miss your opportunity. Its story excels in delivering on the choice given to players, and, sure sometimes choice don't matter as much as you want, but more often then not, Oxenfree is far more open than any other similar games (Life is Strange, I'm looking at you), although its short play time and limited mechanics mean I expect that saved dev-time to go somewhere. The player-choice and conversation style make this more a conversation simulator than a walking one. The horror elements make Oxenfree scary and tense without actually having any horror that is directly scary, something that is very well executed. Its ending might feel a bit like a cop-out, but it still feels like less of a disservice than Life is Strange or Infinite, in that its mind **** makes just enough sense to have an emotional impact whilst maintaining a proper character arc for everyone and preserving that I'm-like-85%-sure-whats-going-on effect that permeates the entire game. The New-Game+ that is now available (but i haven't played yet) seems set to solve that cop-out feeling, although I don't really feel like re-doing the whole game again, because it seems like it would get boring quick given its so-called "walking simulator" status.… Expand
  11. PrimozaPL
    Nov 12, 2017
    9
    When two cousins from California founded Night School Studio they promised they would make games with interesting stories and great narratives. They invited several Telltale Games employees who formed the first Walking Dead and a group of Disney workers. Such a team could not fail. The game despite its low budget is a small masterpiece. Oxenfree in his genre does all the work he needs toWhen two cousins from California founded Night School Studio they promised they would make games with interesting stories and great narratives. They invited several Telltale Games employees who formed the first Walking Dead and a group of Disney workers. Such a team could not fail. The game despite its low budget is a small masterpiece. Oxenfree in his genre does all the work he needs to do, he speaks his story in a great way with dialogue, climate and style. I'm looking forward to another game from them, but maybe this time a little longer and more difficult.… Expand
  12. MichaelMunoz
    Dec 21, 2017
    8
    Great story telling, but not sure if it's worth it for the price. While Oxenfree blew my mind by the end, the mechanics where getting repetitive and I was ready to be done. For the most part the voice acting is very well done, and the whole really suprised me! All in all a good game, yet I can't really recommend for $25. Wait till' a sale.
  13. Emrys89
    Feb 13, 2018
    9
    One of the best story driven game I've ever played. The characters are fun and enjoyable and the story is so good. Also you need to replay the game after you have first finished the game. You will never want to stop playing.
  14. bersi84
    Aug 25, 2018
    8
    Oxenfree is a very enjoyable scenic adventure, where decisions matter in the outcome of events. The presentation comes as 2.5D with a decent soundtrack. Every communication and interaction in the game is presented in voice snippets with the only exception being a series of collectible letters.

    Events take place on an island where friends meet up to hang out. Every character has a    Oxenfree is a very enjoyable scenic adventure, where decisions matter in the outcome of events. The presentation comes as 2.5D with a decent soundtrack. Every communication and interaction in the game is presented in voice snippets with the only exception being a series of collectible letters.

    Events take place on an island where friends meet up to hang out. Every character has a specific role and sidekick in the whole presentation driving the events and atmosphere. You unleash mysterious events with certain radio waves where you synchronize "strange atmospheric holes" that resonate to you and uncover the myths on the island with forceful powers that are breaking up the group from the inside.

    Although the overall style tends to be smooth and child-like the events sharpen to mystery and even horror-esque sceneries that leads you sometimes intrigued, puzzled or pumped for what is coming up. The overall atmosphere tends to be dark moody with a pretty nice mystery touch.

    I dont want to spoil too much of the story. One of many possible rides (one playthrough) takes around 4-6hrs. Replayability is given. Although I feel that after the second playthrough you ll be pretty much done and/or satisfied with what you got out of the game.

    For a price of 5-10€ this game is absolutely a nice pick to go for. I d give the atmosphere and uniqueness of this game even a 9 to 9.5 whereas the short length of the game (and for my taste) too slow movement of the characters I d rate 6 to 7. Making it a worthwile grab for a day or two.    … Expand
  15. SplitMind
    May 23, 2021
    9
    Oxenfree is a remarkable game that I expect to live on remarkably in my memory long after I have played it.

    The graphics are able to be both lacking in innovation yet also memorable as they serve a role in a greater purpose. This is the stereotypical indie game lacking a AAA budget, but the animated characters are able to hold their own and diversify regardless of polygon counts. I    Oxenfree is a remarkable game that I expect to live on remarkably in my memory long after I have played it.

    The graphics are able to be both lacking in innovation yet also memorable as they serve a role in a greater purpose. This is the stereotypical indie game lacking a AAA budget, but the animated characters are able to hold their own and diversify regardless of polygon counts. I quite liked how a bucolic setting is shaken by a paranormal presence. The isometric view is perfect for what the game wants to achieve.

    The gameplay of Oxenfree isn’t overly complex but doesn’t fall into repetition too much either. There’s a lot of walking around and interacting with the supernatural elements My biggest and only real gripe is that a few times you are dropped with an objective or a location but getting there is left ambiguous or vague. Given that traversal can be slow, it can be very frustrating to discover you have wandered in the wrong direction. There were a few times also where using the radio necessitated looking up online guides and the mini game in Adler’s house was irritating. I think what I enjoyed most were the dialogue choices, but it’s hard to see in one playthrough what, if any, impact my choices had.

    This leads me to the focal point of Oxenfree – the story. The story premise itself on a stereotypical coming-of-age theme, but the supernatural elements quickly emerge and add a very interesting depth to the story. Making choices and learning more about why things are happening is very compelling and definitely the best aspect of Oxenfree. It’s best not to spoil it so I won’t say any more. The criticism I have is that you have a very narrow window to choose your dialogue responses, which may not be such a bad thing either as saying nothing has its own consequences.

    Overall, Oxenfree is like a breath of fresh air. I had it laying in my library for literally years and I wish I had played it sooner. I can highly recommend it if you’re interested in a more indie experience with an emphasis on narrative.    … Expand
  16. hello_world
    Aug 4, 2019
    8
    Oxenfree is a well written game, which is good considering that it is a narrative-based adventure game. If you like telltale games or life is strange, this should be up your alley. There is less emphasis on giving you choices that impact the overall narrative of the game, but the narrative they do construct was well done, which is often preferable to mediocre narratives that branch out.Oxenfree is a well written game, which is good considering that it is a narrative-based adventure game. If you like telltale games or life is strange, this should be up your alley. There is less emphasis on giving you choices that impact the overall narrative of the game, but the narrative they do construct was well done, which is often preferable to mediocre narratives that branch out.

    The dialogue is engaging and the system was created in such a way that there is little dead space between characters speaking, giving the conversations a much more natural feel. The characters are perhaps too witty for actual teenagers, but they are fun to listen to.

    However, there is one decision you make early in the game that I think should be removed.the choice didn't change the narrative, just the order you see things in. But the pacing of the story was much better for one of the choices.    … Expand
  17. coorhys
    Jun 18, 2019
    8
    Oxenfree grabbed me in a way I didn't expect - it has supernatural elements, and although it might not seem quite right to describe it as a 'horror' game as such, it certainly creeped me out in a way other games that are marketed as straight horror experiences don't. It has genuinely unsettling moments, however that just does more to suck you in and keep you playing through the story.Oxenfree grabbed me in a way I didn't expect - it has supernatural elements, and although it might not seem quite right to describe it as a 'horror' game as such, it certainly creeped me out in a way other games that are marketed as straight horror experiences don't. It has genuinely unsettling moments, however that just does more to suck you in and keep you playing through the story.

    The art style is very appealing however is quite simplistic, but everything in this game just works and suits the overall tone perfectly. The characters are endearing, the story is extremely engaging, and even though the gameplay is quite slow-paced, everything controls smoothly, even if some of the sections where you need to climb or cross ledges can be a little clunky.

    It is not an overly-long game, but you will want to dive back in for another run to do the opposite choices and take the game in different directions. An easy game to recommend, and can quite often be found on sale, so take the opportunity to pick it up if you haven't tried it. An excellent example of some of the indie gems out there.    … Expand
  18. DanielTheCritic
    Nov 17, 2019
    10
    Oxenfree has got to be one of the best indie titles I've ever played. The story is what steals the show here, tying it in such a unique way with its gameplay loop. One of those games you'll run through multiple playthroughs in succession. Play this game!
  19. MaxCaulfield
    Aug 12, 2021
    10
    I simply love this game to pieces! The mood is so special. Made me think of Stand By Me for some reason. Absolutely cannot wait for the sequel to come out
  20. AbhinavDasiga
    Mar 29, 2022
    7
    Oxenfree offers a distinct experience where the story unfolds as the user chooses responses to NPCs. The narrative can branch in multiple directions and results in varying outcomes for the relationships with characters. What’s neat is how this aspect is tightly integrated with the core gameplay as the conversations flow replicate a natural flow. However, the movement within the game isOxenfree offers a distinct experience where the story unfolds as the user chooses responses to NPCs. The narrative can branch in multiple directions and results in varying outcomes for the relationships with characters. What’s neat is how this aspect is tightly integrated with the core gameplay as the conversations flow replicate a natural flow. However, the movement within the game is tedious and backtracking can be a total buzzkill. Also, the main plot isn’t anything which will blow one away. If that was more compelling, Oxenfree would have been a significantly better game.… Expand
  21. Mp8
    Apr 9, 2021
    10
    Masterpiece,just play it ,just play it ,just play it,just play it , just plaaaaaaaaaaaay(sorry I had to fill up more than 75 characters)
  22. TheFlyinPancake
    Sep 20, 2021
    9
    Oxenfree has one of the best conversation systems I've ever come across. The dialogues are written really well and feel natural. The voice acting and the art style is all really neat. Don't expect much of the gameplay since it's mostly just walking. If you are the type of player who skips dialogue in games, then this game isn't for you. However, if you do like story games then this is a must buy
  23. WellEvil
    Oct 29, 2022
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game with a huge focus on story, characters, and world-building. I don't remember the last time when the story absorbed me so much. Yes, there are a few bugs here are there, but nothing game-breaking. Usually minor visual glitches.… Expand
  24. elgarmius
    Jan 16, 2022
    2
    Right off the bat, you're playing out an extremely tired trope -- two dudes and a chick she's constantly making choices between.
  25. brennenmorrow
    Feb 26, 2022
    10
    This game is awesome! The story and dialogue are so good, the art style is great, and I am so excited for the sequel. There is no combat, so watch a review from a source you trust and understand what you're signing up for before you purchase the game. It's not for everyone. I really can't recommend it enough though.
  26. Yojimbo2015
    May 11, 2023
    7
    Nice little narrative-based adventure with attractive graphics that stands out from the crowd thanks to some very good dialogue and voice acting.
  27. aaronnmp96
    Feb 3, 2023
    7
    A well-carried madness, the story is basic but I like the mysteries, the way of choosing the endings is approved.

Awards & Rankings

72
#72 Best PS4 Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. Gamers' Temple
    Oct 5, 2016
    82
    The game's story was captivating enough to keep me playing in spite of the lack of any real gameplay challenge.
    Read full review
  2. RPG Fan
    Aug 11, 2016
    90
    Oxenfree is an extremely well put-together horror game from a new developer, and one that I can find very little fault with. Night School Studios might just be 2016's class valedictorians, and any fan of Telltale games and suspense fiction simply must give this one a go.
    Read full review
  3. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Jul 16, 2016
    80
    One of this year's best indie offerings so far. [Aug 2016, p.88]
See all critic reviews »