The Council

 PlayStation 4
Metascore
74

Mixed or average reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
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  1. Hardcore Gamer
    Jan 28, 2019
    70
    Gameplay is far more superior to any other episodic title on the market, with Big Bad sending an important message to other developers that this aspect should never be overlooked in episodic gaming. From the opening moments of The Mad Ones, it’s clear as day that the RPG mechanics would bring forward an engaging experience over the story. The developer didn’t hold back from introducing a new mechanic in the later stage of the title and it seamlessly worked in harmony with the features that have been there since the opener. While it doesn’t boast mind-blowing visuals or sounds, The Council has a simple art direction that makes it feel right at home in the period that it takes place.
  2. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    Jan 27, 2019
    70
    Though the chat is scintillating, however, it feels cut short. [Issue#158, p.90]
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  3. RPGamer
    Dec 13, 2018
    70
    For those looking for an investigative adventure, The Council is worth checking out. It makes good use of its setting to create the initial intrigue, even if it veers away from it a bit too much at the end. The use of RPG and skill elements gives players a sense of progress as Louis learns more about the situation and becomes more adept at dealing with the other characters. While not all-powerful, The Council certainly has some interesting things to say.
  5. Game Informer
    Dec 6, 2018
    65
    The Council’s bad graphics, voice acting, and load times didn’t bother me as much as its problematic narrative. What’s the point of having choice and consequence when you don’t care about the story you’re inhabiting? The Council seems promising with its good ideas, but then when you get further into it, it betrays you like a dishonest politician.
  6. We Got This Covered
    Dec 23, 2018
    60
    The Council starts strong and manages to liven up the adventure genre with some smart decisions. As the series drags on though, the bugs, unappealing visuals, and lackluster plot development mar an otherwise engaging adventure.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 121 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 89 out of 121
  2. Mixed: 24 out of 121
  3. Negative: 8 out of 121
  1. apolyakov
    Mar 15, 2018
    10
    Like the other reviewer here, I was not expecting much.
    I did not hear anything about this game - came across it on PS store today    Like the other reviewer here, I was not expecting much.
    I did not hear anything about this game - came across it on PS store today accidentally.
    Well, I checked some trailers and reviews, decided to give it a go and buy it, four hours later I can say this is the best investment of 8 dollars I could have made.
    This is a telltale game done good - with much more freedom and more RPG elements (skills, exp, inventory) that allow you to develop unique traits of character that actually have an impact on the plot. I'm really hooked on the story now, I hope these guys don't screw up in the next episodes, right now it is a 10/10 for me. Some of the decisions were also damn hard to make, like in key moments of Game of Thrones form Telltale or Life is Strange. Some people complain about the graphics and controls, but on PS4 they are just fine.    … Full Review »
  2. manmythledgend
    Mar 14, 2018
    8
    This game was actually better than I expected. The characters’ faces are wonky, sure, but the game still stands up well on its own. TheThis game was actually better than I expected. The characters’ faces are wonky, sure, but the game still stands up well on its own. The leveling system is very engaging, and directly impacts your interactions with other characters as you move through the game. My girlfriend and I played through together and the plot/interactions were engaging no matter which one of us was holding the controller. Well worth the $6.99 they’re asking for Episode 1 and definitely looking forward to the future releases.… Full Review »
  3. Bioware-Critic
    Apr 1, 2018
    10
    One of THE best and THE most interesting games I have ever played - PERIOD!
    I am a lover of RPG's. In my honest opinion, I would estimate    One of THE best and THE most interesting games I have ever played - PERIOD!
    I am a lover of RPG's. In my honest opinion, I would estimate that anyone who likes good stories and characters will cherish this gem.

    I can recommend this title wholeheartedly.
    I true AA-indie jewel!

    On a side note: In a time where "Hellblade: Senua's sacrifice" makes a stand for AA-titles, the title "The Council" makes me hopeful for an era of better games ... "far, far away" ... from all toxic AAA-industry-influence.    … Full Review »
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