Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver

 PlayStation
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
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  1. Hot Games
    100
    Graphically, this could well be the PlayStation's finest hour. The lighting effects are nothing short of incredible, with each environment sporting realistic and amazingly effective touches on each surface.
  2. Adrenaline Vault
    100
    An amazing mix of fighting, puzzle-solving, and platform style action and adventure. The only PlayStation titles that come even remotely close to being this immersive and enjoyable in my experience is the "Resident Evil" family, but even they lack the sheer depth and playability of Raziel's quest.
  3. PSX Nation
    96
    Aside from the story this is Crystal D's finest moment with a title that should make Lara Croft seems like yesterday's news.
  5. Absolute Playstation
    94
    With drop dead graphics, haunting sound effects and non stop action it will leave you in a similar state last experienced with the original "Tomb Raider."
  6. IGN
    93
    Such an ambitious game - and one that achieves nearly everything it sets out to do - that few games come close to it. This game puts Tomb Raider to shame.
  7. TotalGames.net
    92
    Raziel is tremendously well animated and his surroundings are epic. In fact, the whole feel of Soul Reaver is epic, more than just a third-person adventure, but a whole tale of jealousy, betrayal and revenge.
  8. Just RPG
    91
    With an exciting story, unique gameplay, and excellent presentation, you can't go wrong with Soul Reaver.
  9. Gaming Age
    91
    The visuals are incredible... [and] environments are jaw-dropping.
  10. GameSpot
    90
    A bit on the easy side. The platform-jumping sections aren't too tough, the puzzles not too complex, and the bosses fairly simple to beat.
  11. Electric Playground
    90
    If there is one fault with Soul Reaver it has to be some of the platform jumping required in the game. Not since the long ago days of my Atari 2600, have I been frustrated enough with a game to fling my controller across the room as I did while playing Soul Reaver.
  12. Games Domain
    90
    Seasoned gamers who are prepared to persevere will find it ultimately rewarding, however, as the stunning graphics and atmospheric sound makes it an engrossing experience.
  13. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    90
    Visually stunning goth-action vampire romp with soul-sucking goodness. [Mar 2002, p.34]
    All this publication's reviews
  14. Cheat Code Central Platinum
    90
    One of the best games I've ever played. Everything about this game is top notch (except the ending): the story, voice acting, graphics, control and even the camera is excellent.
  15. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    88
    A sprawling, horrific 3D action game starring a guy with a very weak chin. [Jan 2004, p.188]
    All this publication's reviews
  16. GameCritics
    85
    Without quiet moments of reflection, down-time to relax, or any meaningful relationships that go beyond the passive cut-scenes within the actual game, it all starts to feel as unrelenting as the final quarter of a bone-crunching Steven Segal movie.
  17. All Game Guide
    80
    Where the original had lots of hack-'em-up action, this one replaces it with a puzzle (flipping and moving blocks into their appropriate locations). And they're hard – don't be surprised if you find yourself stuck for hours in one room.
  18. Game Revolution
    67
    The horrible ending to this game has ruined what looked to be a good contender for the best Playstation game of the year. All the potential is there, but Eidos and Crystal Dynamics simply released an unfinished product.

Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best PS1 Game of 1999
6
#6 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 1999
11
#11 Most Shared PS1 Game of 1999

User Reviews

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User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 263 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 237 out of 263
  2. Mixed: 18 out of 263
  3. Negative: 8 out of 263
  1. razburnknj
    May 4, 2011
    10
    Stunning scenarios, epic soundtrack, the best voice acting possible(Tony Jay), addicting game play, anti heroes, gothic theme... the perfectStunning scenarios, epic soundtrack, the best voice acting possible(Tony Jay), addicting game play, anti heroes, gothic theme... the perfect recipe. just...play it!… Full Review »
  2. MarkD.
    Nov 4, 2006
    9
    As far as PSX action adventures go, this is second only to the mighty Metal Gear Solid and its just as awe-inspiring in its own way. A bit of As far as PSX action adventures go, this is second only to the mighty Metal Gear Solid and its just as awe-inspiring in its own way. A bit of a forgotten classic I think so if you see it going cheap you know what to do.… Full Review »
  3. FrontierGames
    Oct 13, 2014
    10
    This is the best game of the Legacy of Kain.The Graphics are amazing,the soundtrack is very good and the gameplay is Awesome and is one of theThis is the best game of the Legacy of Kain.The Graphics are amazing,the soundtrack is very good and the gameplay is Awesome and is one of the best games of the PS1 generation.… Full Review »
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