The Gardens Between

 Xbox One
User Score
7.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 37 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 37
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 37
  3. Negative: 5 out of 37

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  1. Xbox_Alive
    Dec 1, 2018
    8
    The presentation side of the game is something that ticked a lot of boxes for me because both the visuals and sound design created different emotions. Each of the puzzles in the game have been done well and while they aren’t really challenging the variety within them kept the game interesting. I found the time mechanic to be very interesting and in some ways unique which in turn did makeThe presentation side of the game is something that ticked a lot of boxes for me because both the visuals and sound design created different emotions. Each of the puzzles in the game have been done well and while they aren’t really challenging the variety within them kept the game interesting. I found the time mechanic to be very interesting and in some ways unique which in turn did make the gameplay come alive that little bit more. The story the game is trying to tell is sweet yet very distinctive and it did make me think about certain things along the way. I found the world in which the game took place to be very charming and I think it combined with the story extremely well. If you’re looking for an action-packed experience then you won’t find it here because it is a slow paced experience which can make things become a little tedious every once in a while. In terms of content the game doesn’t have a huge amount and once completed you’re highly unlikely to return back to the game. I remember back in the day with my friends playing because back then I didn’t have a worry about responsibilities. Instead it was a time of fun and adventure and those memories will stay with me to the day I die. This is basically what The Gardens Between is about and even though the game is short in length and doesn’t have much in terms of replaybilty it will stay with me long after completion. The story is told through different mannerisms instead of words and this for me made the experience even more powerful. When you combine this then with the intricate puzzles you end up having an experience that’s very unique and in my opinion it does make the game stand out quite considerably. Another thing that makes the game stand out is the world in which the game takes place in. This world is packed full of colour and the musical score that accompanies these visuals makes the game very immersive. In terms of problems the game doesn’t have too many and the only issue I had is that the game is a little too slow-paced for its own good at times. This however doesn’t impact on your experience very much though and when it’s all said and done The Gardens Between is a beautiful game that gets massive recommendation from me.… Expand
  2. DTester26
    Oct 21, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Beautiful game, the ending is unexpectedly touching and honours what surely was a beautiful friendship.… Expand
  3. jeffbizloc
    Sep 16, 2019
    9
    The Gardens Between was a pleasant surprise to me. Though it only lasted about 3 hours, the quality over quantity is appreciated.

    Game(s) like: Braid

    Pros:
    - Always enjoy timestop puzzles - the puzzles weren't too complicated but it is nice to have a relaxing game that still makes you think a bit
    - Very inviting world, sound, and story

    Cons:
    - I wanted more levels and puzzle mechanics
  4. ThaFlu84
    Jan 16, 2021
    8
    A beautiful and serene puzzle game about the friendship of 2 kids. It includes wonderful music, some thoughtful puzzles, and is climaxed by a memorable ending.

Awards & Rankings

39
#39 Best Xbox One Game of 2018
57
#57 Most Discussed Xbox One Game of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 7 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 7
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 7
  3. Negative: 0 out of 7
  1. Jeuxvideo.com
    Feb 29, 2020
    75
    The Gardens Between's story certainly does not shine but the game features a brilliant concept and artistic design and delivers a truly enjoyable experience.
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  2. Gamers' Temple
    Jan 11, 2019
    80
    The Gardens Between's aesthetics make for a relaxing and enjoyable experience, albeit a rather short one. You can complete the game within two hours, and once you do there's not really any reason to go back and play it again. If the game were longer and the puzzles more challenging towards the end, it would be easy to recommend the game to puzzle game fans. If you're OK with the short length and approach the game as something that you'll enjoy a quiet evening playing and then move on, you'll probably enjoy the experience.
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  3. XBLA Fans
    Dec 18, 2018
    100
    It’s a fairly simple game, but it does everything so well it almost feels effortless. Controls are easy for anyone to grasp, new concepts and increased difficulty unfold so naturally, you may not even notice. The narrative may be cliché but comes across sincere, brought to life with a charming interpretation of childhood imagination. It’s the gaming equivalent of a warm, cozy blanket – a relaxing and welcoming experience built for anyone to enjoy.
    Read full review
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