The Artful Escape

 Xbox Series X
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 81 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 57 out of 81
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 81
  3. Negative: 10 out of 81

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. ColdHand
    Sep 18, 2021
    4
    By now, we're all too familiar with the Annapurna Interactive artsy (borderline pretentious) games, so it won't come up as a surprise when I tell you "The Artful Escape" follows the usual script : almost no gameplay at all, close to no plot, no challenge and great attention paid to artistic direction. Basically, it's some sort of 5 hours interactive visual experience. Maybe it's yourBy now, we're all too familiar with the Annapurna Interactive artsy (borderline pretentious) games, so it won't come up as a surprise when I tell you "The Artful Escape" follows the usual script : almost no gameplay at all, close to no plot, no challenge and great attention paid to artistic direction. Basically, it's some sort of 5 hours interactive visual experience. Maybe it's your thing, but as for every other Annapurna games, it's unfortunately not mine.… Expand
  2. Chiyou
    Sep 19, 2021
    6
    Although I really enjoyed the messaging and I absolutely loved the visuals it ended up being a mediocre experience for me because of the non existent gameplay. I appreciate that this is more broadly accessible but it brought me as a gamer absolutely no challenge. The visuals dazzled me but the gameplay was move right until you get to a simon says mini-game. Performance also wasn't great, IAlthough I really enjoyed the messaging and I absolutely loved the visuals it ended up being a mediocre experience for me because of the non existent gameplay. I appreciate that this is more broadly accessible but it brought me as a gamer absolutely no challenge. The visuals dazzled me but the gameplay was move right until you get to a simon says mini-game. Performance also wasn't great, I was running it on a Xbox Series X which shouldn't have any problems but I was encountering constant frame drops. That all being said I don't think this game was specifically made for me but I appreciate it exists for people who find games too challenging or are looking for inspiration to be who they really want to be.… Expand
  3. SuperkenGaming
    Nov 8, 2021
    7
    The Artful escape
    The power of music!
    The artful escape is a linear nearl 4 hour long narrative adventure, you’re the nephew of a legendary musician trying to find yourself, and a night before a big gig youre abducted by aliens.. This is a game about finding yourself as an artist.. youll go through these beautiful locations just rifting on your guitar, eventually getting to a boss    The Artful escape
    The power of music!
    The artful escape is a linear nearl 4 hour long narrative adventure, you’re the nephew of a legendary musician trying to find yourself, and a night before a big gig youre abducted by aliens..
    This is a game about finding yourself as an artist.. youll go through these beautiful locations just rifting on your guitar, eventually getting to a boss battle that will have you playing a simon says like mini game.. then its off to the next area..
    This game is again beautiful, I was so impressed with the visuls nd I loved sliding down hills and the platforming here, the story however I was kinda bored of after a while, wasn’t one that really clicked with me so I didn’t care how it turned out all that much..
    But I still had this eautiful world to pull me through..
    Gameplay wise this was my favorite aspect, it was fun putting on a little rock show for these aliens before sliding through some caves.. but if this doesn’t sound like a story that intrigues you, the gameplay isn’t enough on its own to justify a playthrough..
    Overall The Artful escape is a good game..
    Not one Ill think about much going forward, but at the same time has the potential to be one of someone elses favorite games of the year,
    I give The Artful Escape
    a 7/10    … Expand
  4. SugarHBear
    Sep 29, 2021
    4
    This game is very niche: less than 30% of players have finished this FIVE hour game, according to Xbox achievements. So the odds are it won't appeal to you. While I liked the art and the music was fine (I actually preferred the folk stuff on the title screen), I was not into the limited gameplay or the drawn out story.
  5. Ademali
    Sep 13, 2021
    6
    لعبة بلاتفورمينج بسيطة من حيث الجيم بلاي،القصة جيدة عموما،أكثر ماشدني للعبة هو عالمها الجميل جدا بألوان رائعة وتوجه فني خرافي
  6. Adamsfamily
    Sep 15, 2021
    3
    I can hardly call it a game.You go left and right,sometimes jump and if you hold x,something moves in the background,but there isn't any challenge.At the end of each level there is a boss battle,but you just have to press the glowing buttons.
    I think the creators didn't have any concept and they simply made the game colorful to sell it.
  7. xaviar_nl
    Sep 12, 2021
    9
    I truly enjoyed playing this game, even though is it light on actual game mechanics. The visuals are trippy & stunning. And the soundtrack is just a blast, with rock opera, eighties throwbacks, and all kinds of synthy stuff. And the voice acting is very good/fitting too.
    Truly something to experience!
  8. Nusferatu_DUDE
    Sep 13, 2021
    10
    Amazing game that gave me a lot of emotions, I saw where the inspiration came from which made my experience even better. It might not be the most challenging game, in fact its an easy one, but its a beautiful one, made with heart! the art, the music, the story.... all works really well, a fresh breath of air between all the AAA games. I couldn't recommend it enough, hopefully it will giveAmazing game that gave me a lot of emotions, I saw where the inspiration came from which made my experience even better. It might not be the most challenging game, in fact its an easy one, but its a beautiful one, made with heart! the art, the music, the story.... all works really well, a fresh breath of air between all the AAA games. I couldn't recommend it enough, hopefully it will give you the same amazing emotions it gave me!… Expand
  9. LadiesMan217
    Sep 21, 2021
    9
    This title, for me, was the most fun gaming experience of 2021. Yes, it's short. The sheer brilliance packed into these 4-5 hours was enough to thoroughly blow my mind. As a music nut, I loved the little references to lyrics and artists strewn throughout the dialogue. As a guitarist, I was inspired by the journey of our hero. It's a brilliant story, catered to musicians or music lovers. OnThis title, for me, was the most fun gaming experience of 2021. Yes, it's short. The sheer brilliance packed into these 4-5 hours was enough to thoroughly blow my mind. As a music nut, I loved the little references to lyrics and artists strewn throughout the dialogue. As a guitarist, I was inspired by the journey of our hero. It's a brilliant story, catered to musicians or music lovers. On top of that, the level design and visuals are out of this world. It's basically a graphical showcase with a bit of Side Scroller and Guitar Hero gameplay thrown in.

    I loved it.    … Expand
  10. mongz79
    Sep 13, 2021
    8
    I was really surprised at how much I liked this game. It starts out a little slow, but I ended up having a lot of fun playing it. Games, so often now, are just not that enjoyable. This game actually had me laughing at some points. It's really weird, has crazy vibrant colors, and a unique soundtrack. I would highly recommend it. It's a must play if you have GamePass.
  11. memus
    Sep 18, 2021
    9
    The better sequel to original Psychonauts than the one done by Double Fine (theirs is just fine). This game is a perfect mix of coming-of-age story and wonderful music. Feels a little bit like an interactive Adventure Time episode: the same psychedelic effect, just a ukulele is replaced with an electric guitar. This game has soul in it :)
  12. victortb12
    Sep 11, 2021
    8
    A great surprise, as a guitar player, I really liked this game.
    It’s great experience!
  13. Midget007
    Sep 18, 2021
    10
    Audio video masterpiece. Such a joy to play. Incredible voice acting. It is basically a playable Wes Anderson movie complete with dioramas and Jason Swartzman.
  14. Lonejumper23
    Oct 3, 2021
    10
    How did this game go under the radar!?!?!!? It is FANTASTIC, AMAZING, GENIUNUS, IMAGINATIVE, MESSED UP, BACKWARDS, SHOCKING and the list goes on. WOW and what an experience the have in video games. Never thought I would see anything like this and what a a work of art to bring gamers into and through that story; and concept of telling a story like that. I applaud this gaming company thatHow did this game go under the radar!?!?!!? It is FANTASTIC, AMAZING, GENIUNUS, IMAGINATIVE, MESSED UP, BACKWARDS, SHOCKING and the list goes on. WOW and what an experience the have in video games. Never thought I would see anything like this and what a a work of art to bring gamers into and through that story; and concept of telling a story like that. I applaud this gaming company that made this game for us. Thank you for showing me that style of art and putting me through that journey. WOW,WOW and WOW! No joke people and try it for an hour and you will go on a magical ride!… Expand
  15. TheMoil
    Sep 13, 2021
    8
    Beautiful short and sweet experience. Needs support to keep studio invested to keep ceeating.
  16. dafunkk
    May 9, 2022
    9
    TLDR: 8.5/10, a very fun, beautiful and memorable way to spend 5 hours

    Two important disclaimers: 1. I played this game on Game Pass, I cannot imagine paying more than the cost of a movie ticket for it. 2. This is not a game in the traditional sense. At all. I can understand the negative reviews. This is basically one part walking sim, one part adventure game, one part rhythm game    TLDR: 8.5/10, a very fun, beautiful and memorable way to spend 5 hours

    Two important disclaimers: 1. I played this game on Game Pass, I cannot imagine paying more than the cost of a movie ticket for it. 2. This is not a game in the traditional sense. At all.

    I can understand the negative reviews. This is basically one part walking sim, one part adventure game, one part rhythm game and all of that is smothered in beautiful art and wonderful music. If you want something with legit gameplay, look elsewhere. This game is more of an "interactive experience." Personally, I found it very refreshing, I loved the characters and the voice acting. The music was phenomenal and the graphics, settings and story were all top notch. Not quite on the level of Journey but certainly lives in the same neighborhood inside my heart.    … Expand
  17. BradMorgan
    Jan 9, 2022
    8
    I would describe The Artful Escape as a journey in the most colorful and beautiful fantasies you can ever imagine. Almost a spiritual search for your true self and breaking free of the expectations that the world around you has of you. This sounds very vague, but the game really was at times. The lines of the characters are full of fantasy sometimes and it almost seems like an LSD trip.I would describe The Artful Escape as a journey in the most colorful and beautiful fantasies you can ever imagine. Almost a spiritual search for your true self and breaking free of the expectations that the world around you has of you. This sounds very vague, but the game really was at times. The lines of the characters are full of fantasy sometimes and it almost seems like an LSD trip. Still, it suited the approach of this game.

    At it’s core it is amazing in image and sound, super nice art style with color palettes that you can dream away with and the underlying message is not difficult to follow. It is an amazing journey after all.

    Pros:
    - Artstyle alone is a reason to play this game
    - Color palettes
    - Core story
    - Soundtrack
    - Customization options for character during story. Nice addition to get a feel with the character

    Cons:
    - Gameplay mechanics are minimal
    - Script goes to far sometimes. It disconnects the player during conversations    … Expand
  18. ZeSimoes
    Sep 11, 2021
    8
    Great game that you can complete on one or two sittings. Nice story, great visuals, music and feel. Recommend.
  19. AlexTrashiboi
    May 2, 2022
    8
    Fantastic game! The art style is interesting and the story is compelling. the music is honestly the greatest part of the game because I caught myself holding down the X button for the majority of the game just to hear the main character do a pretty cool guitar solo. The game is just a one off story game that doesn't have much or any replayability at all and feels like it was cut a little short.
  20. churros
    Dec 12, 2021
    8
    Pros:
    + character customization
    + great voice acting
    + characters personality
    + beautiful scenery
    + funny writing

    Cons:
    - repetitive music
    - too little gameplay
    - wonky platforming
  21. BWT
    Sep 11, 2021
    8
    The game is truly unique. I liked the visuals, the music and space opera vibe. it's not about challenge, it's some sort of meditation.
  22. zezeljmare
    Jun 24, 2022
    8
    EN:
    Magical! Great indie game, with a great story, a solid dose of humor, a brilliant soundtrack and a beautiful visual design. A hidden gem!

    SRB:
    Magično! Sjajna indie igra, sa odličnom pričom, solidnom dozom humora, brilijantnim sountrackom i prelepim vizuelnim dizajnom. Skriveni dragulj!
  23. JasperThorn
    Nov 11, 2021
    9
    This is fun and story driven game with amazing art vibrant colors and great music try it out you won’t be disappointed.
  24. ArVilla
    Sep 15, 2021
    9
    I started this game not knowing anything about it, but I was infinitely glad that I did. The game isn't overly challenging, complicated, or long, but it had incredible visuals and music. The design of the game and the pacing of the story made it incredibly easy for me to keep playing, finishing the game in a single sitting. Though a short game (i finished a little over 3 hours), I wasI started this game not knowing anything about it, but I was infinitely glad that I did. The game isn't overly challenging, complicated, or long, but it had incredible visuals and music. The design of the game and the pacing of the story made it incredibly easy for me to keep playing, finishing the game in a single sitting. Though a short game (i finished a little over 3 hours), I was smiling the entire time. I can't seem to pinpoint the exact reasons, but when the credits rolled, I was incredibly satisfied. If I had a single gripe, it probably would have been the length of the game, but even then, making the game any longer may have ruined the very pacing that I praised. In the end, a great feel-good game.… Expand
  25. Ultimus_117
    Sep 20, 2021
    10
    The Artful Escape although simple tells a Incredible story not only that but provides Great visuals and Incredible Music.
  26. rangeman
    Sep 11, 2021
    10
    Very nice game, give it a try! The art style is amazing, the story is never boring
  27. Slaine13
    Sep 12, 2021
    8
    Super sympa mais c’est plus une « expérience » psychédélique, une sorte d’aventure qu’on vit sans vraiment jouer (quelques phases de plateforme et des « combats » de boss). Un trip assumé d’amoureux de guitares et de narrations travaillées.
    Franchement le « jeu » est magnifique et perso j’adore l’ambiance. En l’état il aurait mérité d’avoir un vrai gameplay et en faire un vrai jeu de    Super sympa mais c’est plus une « expérience » psychédélique, une sorte d’aventure qu’on vit sans vraiment jouer (quelques phases de plateforme et des « combats » de boss). Un trip assumé d’amoureux de guitares et de narrations travaillées.
    Franchement le « jeu » est magnifique et perso j’adore l’ambiance. En l’état il aurait mérité d’avoir un vrai gameplay et en faire un vrai jeu de plateforme avec des boss bien plus compliqué à faire, y implanter des phases type guitar hero par exemple.
    Clairement un jeu qui devrait se faire en VR.

    L’ avantage avec le gamepass, c’est qu’on peut faire ce genre de jeu sans se dire « purée, j’ai payé 30 euros un jeu que j’ai fini en 3h max » et adorer le moment qu’on vient de passer sans culpabiliser.

    Je le conseille aux amoureux de rifs endiablés, de belles musiques folk et aux curieux d’expérience complètement barrée.    … Expand
  28. MojoRosen
    Sep 12, 2021
    10
    I just loved The Artful Escape! It is a breath of fresh air. It is visually magnificent, and the story is fun. There are great characters and the game play is a bit simple but I really enjoyed it. You can't go wrong with this game.
  29. Jielcafc
    Sep 12, 2021
    9
    Fantastic game. Lovely graphics, simple gameplay, great story. If you have gamepass don't miss this one
  30. AlejoYz
    Sep 25, 2021
    9
    It is a very good game, I felt a lot of emotions while I was playing it. Me and my friends enjoyed this experience together. I recommend it. God no?
  31. Jbolota
    Dec 4, 2021
    9
    Great Game, short but straight to the point, one of the most beautiful games of the year if not the most,def recommend it if you like music and good fun games.
  32. tiam101
    Dec 4, 2021
    9
    very nice indi .without bad point. beutifull music and art . 3 hours with wonderfull wibe and easy full achivmante .
  33. dan-man
    Mar 25, 2022
    10
    Sick! Dope! Solid! Sweet! Want to play awesome riffs whilst running through psychedelic alien landscapes? Yeah, you do! It's on game pass. Well, what are you waiting for?

    Essential for all rock and metal fans. Welcome to the jungle.
  34. FrAgNuS
    Dec 20, 2021
    8
    More of a running/music sim than a game in the truest sense of the word, the artful escape is just a beautiful story in an even more beautiful world. I lii oh vex the characters and the journey they go on with each other and found myself at the end of it all hopeful that there may be some sort of sequel (somehow) in the future.

    Fans of music and narrative focus games should give this a go.
  35. notifycritic
    Jun 22, 2023
    8
    Os gráficos são bonitos e a história muito boa porém o que mais me motivou a jogar foram os 1000G fáceis.
  36. tom974
    Aug 27, 2023
    8
    A nice little game reminding me of GRIS and in that way, it is not for everyone. That is to say : the emphasis is put on the artistic direction and a strong theme, alongside little to no gameplay. I liked very much the themes concerned (identity, social pressure) and the way the game manages to bring the notion of emotion which music can bring.
    Besides, the very basical gameplay and the    A nice little game reminding me of GRIS and in that way, it is not for everyone. That is to say : the emphasis is put on the artistic direction and a strong theme, alongside little to no gameplay. I liked very much the themes concerned (identity, social pressure) and the way the game manages to bring the notion of emotion which music can bring.
    Besides, the very basical gameplay and the lack of challenge prevents it to be as great as GRIS for me.    … Expand
  37. Stan_Osbourne
    Jul 3, 2022
    6
    At first, the first third of the game evoked only positive feelings in me. Very beautiful visual, everything is atmospheric. A good soundtrack is here too, and even the plot seemed to be interesting - knowing oneself in an artistic inner journey. But after going through the game to the end, a slight residue of disappointment remained.

    The most important thing is, of course, the almost    At first, the first third of the game evoked only positive feelings in me. Very beautiful visual, everything is atmospheric. A good soundtrack is here too, and even the plot seemed to be interesting - knowing oneself in an artistic inner journey. But after going through the game to the end, a slight residue of disappointment remained.

    The most important thing is, of course, the almost complete lack of gameplay. In fact, it's a very dull walking simulator that for some reason chose a 2D platformer as its shape, and added more visual novel elements that also do not work, because our choices in the dialogue wheel do not affect anything. The platforming itself is very weak and boring - there is no challenge for the player. The whole essence of an artistic escape into oneself is overcoming a creative crisis and a very hard struggle. And according to the plot - we are simply the best because we are the best .... and that's it, the end.

    I do not recommend buying, except through a Game Pass subscription to try. Glory to Ukraine!    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

24
#24 Best Xbox Series X Game of 2021
27
#27 Most Discussed Xbox Series X Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 34 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 34
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 34
  3. Negative: 0 out of 34
  1. CD-Action
    Jan 19, 2022
    60
    The idea behind The Artful Escape is great, the art style is breathtaking, while the story about coming of age, teenage insecurities and meeting expectations is told brilliantly. Unfortunately, all that doesn’t count for much when a music game has an awful score, guitar shredding quickly becomes boring and the whole thing is basic to a fault. [12/2021, p.77]
  2. GameGrin
    Oct 13, 2021
    75
    The Artful Escape is a great visual-novel and a rock and roll dream. It is one of the best looking games I’ve played with an equally interesting narrative. However, the severe lack of interactiveness really drags down the game.
    Read full review
  3. Edge Magazine
    Oct 9, 2021
    70
    For players who find themselves similarly unsure of their own identities, it could well resonate long after the amps and stage lights have been switched off. [Issue#364, p.116]
See all critic reviews »