Tales of Kenzera: ZAU

 Switch
Metascore
71

Mixed or average reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Nintenduo
    Apr 27, 2024
    73
    Tales of Kenzera: ZAU tells a touching story about the loss of a loved one through the metroidvania genre. Both its gameplay and execution are solid, though the ambition to create a vast map has turned the continent of Kenzera into an empty place to explore.
  2. Het Nieuwsblad
    Jun 19, 2024
    70
    An emotional but beautiful storyline. Beautiful graphics. 'Tales of Kenzera: ZAU' is a remarkable game for several reasons. Yet, as a player, you are left a little hungry.
  3. Jeuxvideo.com
    May 5, 2024
    65
    We would have liked all the charm of the African legends of Tales of Kenzera ZAU to also be found in a level design that was both inspired and inventive! Outstripped by a plethora of competitors, the first software from Surgent Studios lacks the depth and precision to establish itself in the domain of the Gods. However, it does not lack assets: with its low price (20 euros), its dynamism and its enchanting universe, this Metroidvania, less labyrinthine than the others, has interesting arguments to help you spend 8 entertaining hours.
  5. Nintendo Life
    Apr 26, 2024
    60
    Tales of Kenzera: ZAU is a decent game, but it sits in the shadow of much better Metroidvanias on the Switch. We love the setting and storyline, but as Surgent Studios' first stab at what has proven to be a wildly popular genre over the years, it struggles to set itself apart with rather bland exploration and repetitive combat. Coupled with compromised visuals and performance on Switch, veterans of the genre may want to give this one a miss. For newcomers, however, the breezy gameplay might make for a nice introduction to Metroidvanias.
  6. Nintendojo
    Jun 5, 2024
    50
    By the time the credits roll on Zau, players will have fought through swaths of foes and explored many interesting locales. As much as Zau manages to get right, it’s ultimately failed by a lack of innovation that results in an experience that feels like something is missing that would have pushed the game to the next level. Whether it might have been more creative uses of Zau’s powers, or more inventive world exploration, it’s hard to say exactly. I would nonetheless still love to see Salim and Surgent Studios team on another project and take what they learned with Zau and expand upon it. I give Zau a light recommendation for those who have been wanting a new Metroidvania to play, but anyone looking for something truly new is likely to be disappointed.