The Unfinished Swan
Last updated: 2025-12-31
- Innovative and creative gameplay mechanics
- Visually stunning and unique art style
- Soundtrack enhances immersion deeply
- Short length feels unrewarding overall
- Weak narrative with unclear ending
- Frustrating movement and controls
Emotions
Frustration17%Disappointment13%Satisfaction7%Appreciation6%Enjoyment6%
- Sample precision
- Helpful reviews
- 57%
- Unhelpful reviews
- 43%
- Protest reviews
- 0%
- 70%Helpful reviews with positive sentiment
- 30%Helpful reviews with negative sentiment
- Positive points
- 512
- Negative points
- 367
- Gameplay points
- 409
- Perf. points
- 43
- Rec. points
- 74
- Misc points
- 29
| Point | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
Innovative and creative gameplay mechanics
| The game is lauded for its fresh and original mechanics, such as painting the world to reveal surroundings or evolving gameplay per chapter. Players appreciate the constant introduction of new ideas, keeping the experience engaging. | 97% |
Visually stunning and unique art style
| Players consistently praise the game's minimalist yet rich visuals, describing it as a 'minimalist marvel' with a 'unique aesthetic' that enhances immersion. The art direction and level design are frequently highlighted as key strengths. | 60% |
Soundtrack enhances immersion
| The game’s soundtrack is praised for its delicate, melancholic tone, which perfectly complements the visuals and narrative. Players describe it as subtle yet immersive, elevating the overall experience. | 55% |
Emotional and thought-provoking themes
| The narrative explores profound themes like grief and impermanence, resonating emotionally with players. The story’s open-endedness allows for personal interpretation, adding to its impact. | 25% |
First chapter stands out
| The initial levels are frequently highlighted as particularly impressive, with players praising the visual effects, mechanics, and atmosphere. The first chapter is often described as a strong introduction to the game’s unique style. | 14% |
Unique collectibles and replayability
| Optional collectibles, such as balloons, add replay value by encouraging exploration and unlocking new abilities. Players enjoy the added challenge and depth these mechanics provide. | 13% |
Comparisons to narrative-driven games
| The game is often compared favorably to titles like *What Remains of Edith Finch* and *Firewatch*, with players noting its similar focus on storytelling and creativity. Some highlight its more gameplay-driven approach as a strength. | 10% |