Shining Resonance Refrain

 PlayStation 4
Metascore
67

Mixed or average reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 26
  3. Negative: 0 out of 26
Buy Now
Buy on
  1. GamingTrend
    Jul 9, 2018
    90
    Shining Resonance Refrain is an entertaining adventure through a somewhat cliche story, but it contains its own unique aspects that keep you engaged. Combat is easy to learn, but there's a decent amount of depth to it. Dragonshift and B.A.N.D. sessions are wonderful combat mechanics that add more charm to the game. The relationship building and dating also adds a cute slice of life portion to the adventure.
  2. Digitally Downloaded
    Jul 9, 2018
    90
    Shining Resonance Refrain might not be a classic example of the genre, but it gets the most important components of the genre right – the characters and the storytelling – and backs it up with some gorgeous art and a perfectly competent combat system.
  3. Meristation
    Jul 11, 2018
    80
    Shining Resonance Refrain is a title that stands out both for its combat system, charismatic characters and an interesting story as well as for including new additions in terms of content and playable characters.
  5. PlayStation Universe
    Jul 9, 2018
    75
    A great addition to the Shining franchise. Refrain is a fun title with good combat, interesting characters, and some great voice acting that accompany a great translation.
  6. 3DJuegos
    Jul 9, 2018
    75
    A more than acceptable remastered edition of one of those JRPGs that never left its homeland. Fun and enjoyable despite its (sometimes) frustrating difficulty final bosses battles.

Awards & Rankings

36
#36 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2018

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.2

Mixed or average reviews- based on 58 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 58
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 58
  3. Negative: 12 out of 58
  1. sonicman18
    Jul 10, 2018
    10
    i enjoyed what i played i wait for a new installment. The graphics look good and it plays well
  2. DeadsFortune
    Jan 29, 2019
    8
    Shining Resonance Refrain is one of those relaxing JRPGs to play.

    I wouldn't say it's combat is in the same league as the Tales games in    Shining Resonance Refrain is one of those relaxing JRPGs to play.

    I wouldn't say it's combat is in the same league as the Tales games in terms of depth, but it is still enjoyable. Though much like Tales, you do have the ability to play as additional party members. Each character has unique moves of their own, which breaks up any monotony you might find just playing as Yuma.

    Grinding was never a huge factor while playing it, as it is really easy. But grinding does become a factor towards the end game.

    Story wise, I wouldn't say it's anything special. There are some twists, some predictable, but I was never super invested into it to care. The characters do come off as cliche, especially the main protagonist, but they are overall an enjoyable cast if you can look past it.

    I don't get why some people have ripped Shining Resonance Refrain for it's English dub. I found the voice actors/actresses competent and fitting in their roles. No line felt awkward or out of place.

    Much like I initially stated, Shining Resonance Refrain is overall a really relaxing JRPG to play. I recommend it on that basis.    … Full Review »
  3. Tarks_Gauntlet
    Jul 19, 2018
    6
    An "Okay at best" rpg with a generic world, slow story, bland characters, good music, and a great battle system tragically marred byAn "Okay at best" rpg with a generic world, slow story, bland characters, good music, and a great battle system tragically marred by performance issues. There's not much else to say here besides this, Shining resonance refrain, refrains from resonating shiningly.… Full Review »
See all user reviews »