Sea of Solitude

 PlayStation 4
Metascore
69

Mixed or average reviews - based on 46 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 46
  2. Mixed: 26 out of 46
  3. Negative: 2 out of 46
  1. GameCritics
    Jul 11, 2019
    45
    I hate to be critical of something clearly inspired by someone’s personal journey and their hard-won life lessons, but simply sharing such things does not equate to a compelling experience. With a lack of focus, unconvincing voicework and gameplay that runs out of steam halfway through an already-brief running time, Sea of Solitude is like sitting through a few hours of a stranger’s therapy session — it certainly means a lot to someone, but I walked away unaffected.
  2. Slant Magazine
    Jul 11, 2019
    40
    So much of the game feels only slightly more cohesive than someone scribbling the word “depression” over, say, a picture of a person being eaten by a shark.
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In Progress & Unscored

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  1. Eurogamer
    Jul 10, 2019
    A brief, frequently beautiful meditation on mental illness that can be overly blunt in its messaging.
  2. Polygon
    Jul 5, 2019
    Sea of Solitude is not subtle in its warning about the power and danger of loneliness.
  3. The Jimquisition
    Jul 10, 2019
    But seriously, it's pretty good. Y'know, it's fine.
  5. The Verge
    Jul 5, 2019
    Sea of Solitude isn’t the first game to explore mental health issues; 2017’s Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice is one notable example. But those games are often rough around the edges. Sea of Solitude may tell a story that’s painfully personal, but it’s also incredibly approachable. The fantasy setting makes it easy to get into, as does the streamlined gameplay. Actually experiencing the story, though, is painfully difficult; it might even hit a little too close to home for some. Sea of Solitude is beautiful and dark and tragic — and if you happen to see yourself in it, those feelings only multiply.

Awards & Rankings

85
#85 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2019
51
#51 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2019

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
6.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 82 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 34 out of 82
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 82
  3. Negative: 25 out of 82
  1. Rycatchere
    Jul 5, 2019
    10
    Really beautiful, emotional and I love the character design. I want more games like this in my life.
  2. TheScoundreL
    Jul 16, 2019
    10
    This game is worth everyone's time, especially if they've dealt/are dealing with depression. At $20, it's quality > quantity & is worth everyThis game is worth everyone's time, especially if they've dealt/are dealing with depression. At $20, it's quality > quantity & is worth every penny. It doesn't overstay its welcome & is one of those rare, truly special games that every gamer (or fan of well-crafted narrative story in general) should experience at least once - not unlike 'What Remains of Edith Finch' - for originality alone. This one will stick with you - SOLID 10/10… Full Review »
  3. kraenk
    Jul 10, 2019
    10
    This is a special game with a lot of heart and an interesting topic. The game has a few flaws but is definitely worth playing for the greatThis is a special game with a lot of heart and an interesting topic. The game has a few flaws but is definitely worth playing for the great art and atmosphere alone.… Full Review »
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