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The Darkest Tales

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2022

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Quick resume

When a nightmare creeps into reality, the only ones that can help are those whose magical powers we’ve believed in since childhood. A brave teddy bear heads to the far side of “happily ever after” to rescue his owner, Alicia.

Global score

72/100

Genres

Action, Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Platform

Pros

  • Unique dark fairy tale story and setting
  • Beautiful and atmospheric art style
  • Engaging combat and skill progression
  • Varied level design with exploration
  • Immersive voice acting and soundtrack

Cons

  • Clunky and inconsistent controls
  • Lack of map makes navigation frustrating
  • Some difficulty spikes and frustrating platforming
  • Bugs and occasional softlocks reported
  • Limited replay value beyond 100% completion

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players can choose weapons, skills, and explore levels with some freedom, but progression is mostly linear with some backtracking."

  • Competence
    2

    "The game offers a moderate challenge with skill-based combat and platforming, but some controls and mechanics are clunky and inconsistent."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No evidence of competitive or ranked play; focus is on single-player experience."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players report engaging story and atmosphere encouraging continued play, though some frustration with difficulty spikes and bugs may hinder long sessions."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player game with no cooperative multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Strong creativity in story, art style, and dark fairy tale reinterpretations; skill tree and weapon variety add customization."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No evidence of dominating others; gameplay is solo and narrative-driven."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Dark fantasy setting and immersive story provide strong escapism from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment; no indication of obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players experiment with different weapons, skills, and exploration paths; some mechanics encourage trying new strategies."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Exploration of varied levels with secrets and backtracking; lack of map makes discovery challenging but encouraged."

  • Expression
    2

    "Some character and weapon customization through skill trees and equipment, though limited cosmetic expression."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong fantasy elements with dark fairy tale reinterpretations and imaginative fictional world."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community gameplay elements; single-player focus."

  • Growth
    3

    "Skill tree and weapon upgrades provide learning and personal development opportunities."

  • Health
    -5

    "Typical sedentary gameplay with no physical activity elements."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention due to platforming and combat challenges; not suitable for casual background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No evidence of forming close relationships or social interactions within the game."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management roles; solo gameplay."

  • Progression
    4

    "Clear progression through skill trees, weapon upgrades, and story advancement."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "Some players find the game frustrating and tense due to difficulty spikes and clunky controls, though others enjoy the flow."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Appealing art style, music, and atmospheric sound design provide sensory enjoyment."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status systems present."

  • Story
    5

    "Narrative immersion is a strong aspect with dark fairy tale story, character interactions, and plot twists."

  • Strategy
    2

    "Some strategic elements in combat and skill selection, but overall gameplay is straightforward."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Challenging boss fights and tense platforming sections provide moments of suspense and thrill."

  • Value
    3

    "Generally considered good value for price with 7-10 hours of gameplay and replay potential."

  • Violence
    2

    "Combat involves fighting enemies and bosses, but not excessively violent or chaotic."

  • Survival
    2

    "Players must avoid failure in boss fights and platforming challenges, requiring careful resource and skill management."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026