Pyre

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 179 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 136 out of 179
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 179
  3. Negative: 22 out of 179

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  1. abowman
    Jul 26, 2017
    9
    Another amazing game by Supergiant.

    I can see how this game would turn off some folks, even if you've liked other previous Supergiant games. I myself was actually worried going into this one after watching some game play, but it has definitely exceeded my expectations. The first few battles start off slow, but after I got to the third battle or so, and realize what they're going for, I    Another amazing game by Supergiant.

    I can see how this game would turn off some folks, even if you've liked other previous Supergiant games. I myself was actually worried going into this one after watching some game play, but it has definitely exceeded my expectations. The first few battles start off slow, but after I got to the third battle or so, and realize what they're going for, I was insanely immersed.

    The ambiance that's presented for each new enemy is very well done. There's a different theme and music score for basically every new foe you face. The slow pan down and narration when introducing each fight is some of the best presentation I've seen in a game for quite some time. If you don't like visual novels, and a good amount of dialogue, this game might not be for you. However, these type of games aren't usually what I look for, either.

    The game is actually very challenging as well on hard mode. It always a good thing when you're getting worked up when the enemy completely crushes you. When I finally beat one of the fights I had been stuck on, there was a very awesome feeling of intense satisfaction... to me that's a sign of a great game. I don't know if i'll play this thing online against other players, but the ambiance presented in the story mode is EASILY worth the price tag. Also... the soundtrack, absolutely amazing.    … Expand
  2. Deemer
    Jul 26, 2017
    10
    First off, if you can't stomach visual novels you'll want to avoid this. During the first four hours, the gameplay has far more RPG-style management and dialogue than gameplay. After that, it starts to even out.

    Speaking of gameplay, this game is a unique experience in that it's a high-fantasy tackle-basketball game with RPG elements and a graphic novel structure. I won't spoil the    First off, if you can't stomach visual novels you'll want to avoid this. During the first four hours, the gameplay has far more RPG-style management and dialogue than gameplay. After that, it starts to even out.

    Speaking of gameplay, this game is a unique experience in that it's a high-fantasy tackle-basketball game with RPG elements and a graphic novel structure. I won't spoil the story twist - which is great - but there's also an element of campaign management (think Banner Saga) thrown in partway through. It's strange, but well done and engaging.

    While the gameplay is solid, this game focuses more heavily on presentation. There's a huge cast of fantastically designed and (mostly) interesting characters that bounce off of each other wonderfully, and the art and music are outstanding. If you're looking for a unique experience or enjoy either visual novels or sports management games, you should definitely give this a shot.

    PROS:
    -Excellent art and scoring
    -Great setting and characters
    -Unique and interesting gameplay once it gets going

    CONS:
    -Slow start    … Expand
  3. PyRo1005
    Jul 26, 2017
    9
    I picked up this game hoping that the co-op was for campaign. While I was disappointed to find out it was only for versus mode, at $20 I was surprised with how much fun I am having with the game.

    Pyre works closer to Transistor in terms of pacing where combat occurs once in a while and intertwines it with Bastion's engrossing storytelling and item/trinket selection. If you are    I picked up this game hoping that the co-op was for campaign. While I was disappointed to find out it was only for versus mode, at $20 I was surprised with how much fun I am having with the game.

    Pyre works closer to Transistor in terms of pacing where combat occurs once in a while and intertwines it with Bastion's engrossing storytelling and item/trinket selection.

    If you are looking for a hack and slack, shoot 'em up fest, this will most likely not be your game.

    In terms of combat gameplay, you select three characters to bring an orb to their area (Basketball?) and each character has different abilities that make this easier.

    While this might not sound appealing, intertwining this with the story I found myself amazed at wanting to play more rather than hopping on GTA.

    The people at Supergiant Games once again nailed music as I have found myself downloading their soundtrack for the game as well.

    Pyre is one part visual novel and one part Quasi-Basketball and all parts fun and highly recommend picking it up.    … Expand
  4. sickofthebs
    Jul 25, 2017
    10
    The negative reviews for this game on here read like a bad attempt at a comedy roast.... I only recently became aware of the title, and having played and enjoyed both Bastion and Transistor I decided to give this one a go.

    I was really surprised by the fun aspect of the rituals, especially since I am not a big sports fan. And the story is great and kept me wanting more. Do not want    The negative reviews for this game on here read like a bad attempt at a comedy roast.... I only recently became aware of the title, and having played and enjoyed both Bastion and Transistor I decided to give this one a go.

    I was really surprised by the fun aspect of the rituals, especially since I am not a big sports fan. And the story is great and kept me wanting more.

    Do not want to spoil things, but the choices and "visual novel" style of the game between the intense matches reminded me of the day to day activities from the Persona series where at certain times you are given a choice as to what to do and have to sacrifice doing the other option - making your choices actually matter. And the characters will respond to your every choice, including if you decide to leave them out of a ritual.

    Some have brought attention to the lack of online, but I think there are enough other games with this - not every game requires it, and it is much much more entertaining and satisfying playing this in local versus with an ACTUAL person (there is a bot option too, which is a godsend).

    Highly recommend this title as a spark of uniqueness in an industry that is seemingly becoming clustered with generic AAA squalor.    … Expand
  5. Deadheadbill
    Jul 28, 2017
    9
    Great game. The handrawn art is visually arresting and the gameplay is lot's of fun. Also, your decisions really matter in this game unlike others.

    One bit of caution though. The game is a slow starter and doesn't hit it's stride until a couple of hours in. When I read some of the negative reviews I can tell they are from players who never bothered to get over that initial hump.
  6. Aretino89
    Jul 30, 2017
    9
    Innovative and fun gameplay with lots of variations, a compelling narrative that branches at your will and a cast of superbly written characters make up for the best indie game of the year so far.
    Also, Pyre features an otherworldly score and jaw-dropping art. The ending drove me to tears, which is uncommon.
    If I have to mention a flaw, I'd say there are a few frame drops during the most    Innovative and fun gameplay with lots of variations, a compelling narrative that branches at your will and a cast of superbly written characters make up for the best indie game of the year so far.
    Also, Pyre features an otherworldly score and jaw-dropping art. The ending drove me to tears, which is uncommon.
    If I have to mention a flaw, I'd say there are a few frame drops during the most chaotic battles, and if you don't love reading you might find it a bit verbose - though I thing it's not.
    What are you waiting for? Get this game already!    … Expand
  7. sityoazzdown
    Jul 29, 2019
    8
    Gameplay consists of a visual novel and a sports arena 3 v 3 (vs cpu) game where the goal is to get the ball into enemys "basket". Different characters have different abilities to assist you in this goal.
    Pros: Interesting characters and endgoal, character abilities, light rpg elements.
    So-So: only one gameplay mode essentially. Cons: No cons, unlike you don't like visual novels or    Gameplay consists of a visual novel and a sports arena 3 v 3 (vs cpu) game where the goal is to get the ball into enemys "basket". Different characters have different abilities to assist you in this goal.
    Pros: Interesting characters and endgoal, character abilities, light rpg elements.
    So-So: only one gameplay mode essentially.
    Cons: No cons, unlike you don't like visual novels or sports.
    Unique game, not for everyone, but it was a fun and interesting experience for me.    … Expand
  8. Hermaeus
    Aug 7, 2017
    9
    As it's largely a visual novel interspersed with a repetitive mini game, I can understand how a few players aren't having fun with Pyre.

    However, a certain type of player is absolutely going to love it. I fall into this camp. The characters were extremely likable; I found myself caring about most of the party. As expected, the soundtrack is great. The lore and world-building is very    As it's largely a visual novel interspersed with a repetitive mini game, I can understand how a few players aren't having fun with Pyre.

    However, a certain type of player is absolutely going to love it. I fall into this camp. The characters were extremely likable; I found myself caring about most of the party. As expected, the soundtrack is great. The lore and world-building is very intriguing, while the writing has a distinct and engaging flair. I would love to see another game set in Pyre's world.

    I was less fond of the Rites, which as other reviewers have noted are essentially fantasy basketball. They held my attention, but they weren't riveting. Having colorful rival characters to go up against helped, though, and I was so involved in the world and my team that it wasn't a big deal. I will certainly play this game again and try for a different outcome.    … Expand
  9. Winko
    Oct 21, 2017
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. (ゝ‿O)
    Good:
    - Very unique title created by mixing together elements from sport games, visual novels, and RPGs
    - Dialogue is masterfully written; you’ll find something to like in each of your teammates as their pasts and personalities are revealed
    - Interactions between the Nightwings and opposing teams are always entertaining and well written
    - Most of the opposing teams are fully fleshed out and have interesting back stories
    - The salvation mechanic is used extremely well; The party size dwindles as the story progresses, leaving it up to the player to decide the order in which teammates are returned to the commonwealth
    - Beautiful art style, set pieces, and animations
    - Very diverse and well-crafted soundtrack
    - Expansive multiplayer; players can pick any exile featured in the game to play on their team
    - Appropriate options to make the rites as easy or as difficult as you want

    Mixed:
    - Meaningful choices are few and far apart but that can be a good or bad thing depending on what you’re trying to get out of the game
    - Personally, there’s too much lore to digest but some players will definitely love the world building the developer have put so much time into
    - The check point system is a little too lax and can be easily exploited to get the best outcomes possible

    Bad:
    - Slow to start; the game feels relatively linear for the first 2-3 hours
    - There should have been graver consequences for losing liberation rites; permanently forfeiting a team member when you lose a rite or wiping out enemy teams by winning one would have been a good counterbalance
    XXX    … Expand
  10. RebelliousRam
    Jun 30, 2018
    9
    After the stunning looking RPG's Bastion and Transistor, Supergiant Games gives birth to the third Masterpiece Pyre.

    In contrast to both previous Action-RPG's, comes a intriguing Mix between Visual Novel and Sport-Games. (Close to Basketball) The Art Design is flashy, the Soundtrack again superb. Combined with a fascinating Setting, interesting Story and lovable Cast of Characters, Pyre    After the stunning looking RPG's Bastion and Transistor, Supergiant Games gives birth to the third Masterpiece Pyre.

    In contrast to both previous Action-RPG's, comes a intriguing Mix between Visual Novel and Sport-Games. (Close to Basketball) The Art Design is flashy, the Soundtrack again superb. Combined with a fascinating Setting, interesting Story and lovable Cast of Characters, Pyre is instantly a Hit.

    All this tasty Ingredients filling this Journey with a magical Atmosphere, making it the Insider Tip and Indie Game of the Year.    … Expand
  11. klasflod
    Jan 23, 2018
    9
    Supergiants best game, thus far, imo. I loved Bastion and thought Transistor was cool but neither of them got me as hooked as Pyre did. I played and played and played this game. Every character is interesting and well fleshed out, the rites are (after a certain point) challengning and engaging. The music is absolutely top notch and so is the writing. My only complaint is that the storySupergiants best game, thus far, imo. I loved Bastion and thought Transistor was cool but neither of them got me as hooked as Pyre did. I played and played and played this game. Every character is interesting and well fleshed out, the rites are (after a certain point) challengning and engaging. The music is absolutely top notch and so is the writing. My only complaint is that the story sort of drags a bit for the last 2 or so hours, I thought it should have ended juuuuust a tad sooner than it did. Otherwise, this is another must play from the freaking amazing year that was 2017.… Expand
  12. jeffbizloc
    Apr 18, 2018
    8
    I actually got platinum on this game. I was really excited, then kind of let down, then it grew on me.

    Pros:
    - The 3 on 3 games were overall enjoyable
    - The leveling up system was well done
    - I like that some team members may permanently be released

    Cons:
    - Some of the AI gameplay seemed random
    - Woulda been a nice game for multiplayer
  13. Sly2win
    Aug 15, 2017
    8
    I really loved the story of pyre and thought that the characters worked really well, both in story and gameplay. I would however have loved some more animation within the story sections and from time to time I found the story a bit overlong. All that said, it is still neck and shoulders above what most of the major studios are offering currently
  14. livevil999
    Nov 6, 2017
    9
    The most devisive thing about Pyre is probably that it is more like a barely interactive story book than a game for the most part. The game parts are the made up sport where two teams compete to extengish the other's Pyre, which works and takes some actual skill to compete at times, but the parts that make this game exceptional is it's art, it's music, the characters, and the story. IfThe most devisive thing about Pyre is probably that it is more like a barely interactive story book than a game for the most part. The game parts are the made up sport where two teams compete to extengish the other's Pyre, which works and takes some actual skill to compete at times, but the parts that make this game exceptional is it's art, it's music, the characters, and the story. If this sounds like what you are looking for you should give Pyre a play.… Expand
  15. Balrock1230
    Mar 13, 2019
    8
    To reduce this game on its basics, Pyre is FIFA, 20 times better with a story 1000 times better, characters more sympathetic than any footballer you know.

    Art style is awesome and gameplay is so much fun. For me its interesting, how you can create such a deep story around a fantasy sports game. Awesome game
  16. rennah13
    Apr 12, 2020
    9
    I love Supergiant's games, and Pyre is no exception. I found the gameplay to be a bit slow in the beginning, but as time went on and the difficulty increased I enjoyed it more and more. I loved the story and the characters, but it is told entirely through text. And there's a lot of it, which might be a turn off for some players.
  17. tommydlbass
    Oct 17, 2021
    8
    Wonderful game. Is a mix of visual novel with a sport game so be prepeared. The story is really good and the world is very interesting. The only bad things I can come up are how easy the normal difficulty is (you can chose harder tho so not really fair from my part) and the trinket system that is not interesting enough.
  18. Daemon20
    May 8, 2022
    10
    Possibly the best a game has ever done narrative gameplay synchronicity. Everything fits incredibly well together, the writing, the music, the characters, the gameplay, are all amazing and push each other higher. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, but when all the parts are great themselves? That's when youre talking about a masterpiece. Admittedly, the game is veryPossibly the best a game has ever done narrative gameplay synchronicity. Everything fits incredibly well together, the writing, the music, the characters, the gameplay, are all amazing and push each other higher. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, but when all the parts are great themselves? That's when youre talking about a masterpiece. Admittedly, the game is very unconventional in a lot of ways and HEAVY on dialogue, so some people will be turned off right away, however if the game works for you it is an experience like no other.… Expand
  19. Blackvomit
    Aug 4, 2021
    10
    Hands down one of the most unique and satisfying games I’ve ever played. Music and gameplay and story were flawless
  20. RatchetClank111
    Aug 12, 2021
    8
    This game is currently on sale for very cheap and I definitely got a great experience out of the game. I was really surprised on how well the characters and the story are written.

    Pros -Great usage of colors/art, character detail -The story is very good and keeps you wanting to progress - Almost all of the characters are well written and good voice acting helps as well. Like for your    This game is currently on sale for very cheap and I definitely got a great experience out of the game. I was really surprised on how well the characters and the story are written.

    Pros
    -Great usage of colors/art, character detail
    -The story is very good and keeps you wanting to progress
    - Almost all of the characters are well written and good voice acting helps as well. Like for your team I liked most of the characters and would use most of them in the battles. Even the rival teams that you go up against, each of the leaders have distinct personalities, to where some you feel sorry for, and some you just want to win against no matter.
    - The game goes in depth for character's backstories and makes it easier to connect to the teammates, and goes into some interesting rivals where your team and the other team get into some interesting banter and arguments.

    Cons
    -The game does at times have a lot of talking and some of it can get repetitive
    - even though it's a 3v3, a lot of the times you just end up using one character and don't really pass the ball around that much. It's not fluid enough and the other characters. they shouldn't just stand alone, there should be like commands like hey defend the goal, or run to the enemies goal. Because what happens is you just pick the quickest character to get some easy points against the other team
    -Some characters feel way too powerful, and others just feel little to no impact, so for example the characters with the quickest speed can easily just get free points by rushing to the other goal since a lot of the times the AI just won't react quickly enough.

    Overall, the game starts out somewhat slow but after 4-5 hrs, the game allows you to just play the action part more and less of the story. There's a lot of talking throughout the game, and for some that may just be too annoying. Would recommend the game if you like games with more story and detailed characters.

    8/10 score    … Expand
  21. xAETHERIUSx
    Jun 28, 2023
    8
    Supergiant has made a name for themselves in gaming through art direction, storytelling, and crisp gameplay with deceptively high levels of depth. Pyre fits right in with the other games from the studio. Player choices are important, the characters are interesting, and, while the gameplay can take some getting used to, it can be very satisfying. It’s a great indie from a great studio. ItSupergiant has made a name for themselves in gaming through art direction, storytelling, and crisp gameplay with deceptively high levels of depth. Pyre fits right in with the other games from the studio. Player choices are important, the characters are interesting, and, while the gameplay can take some getting used to, it can be very satisfying. It’s a great indie from a great studio. It has some annoying quirks and it can feel a little finicky sometimes, but the overall package is well worth the investment.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

29
#29 Best PS4 Game of 2017
92
#92 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2017
50
#50 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 48 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 44 out of 48
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 48
  3. Negative: 0 out of 48
  1. The Digital Fix
    Sep 14, 2017
    80
    A quirky fusion of genres which challenges as much as it charms.
    Read full review
  2. games(TM)
    Sep 8, 2017
    80
    You've never played anything quite like this. [Issue#191, p.74]
  3. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Sep 8, 2017
    90
    An engaging fantasy visual novel elegantly supplemented with an addictive and unique sport, Pyre is a true original. As gaming obsessions go, it burns bright, if not long. [Oct 2017, p.93]
See all critic reviews »