Sea of Stars

GameSpot

Jason Fanelli·Sep 8, 2023

Critic90/100

Agreement—

Sabotage Studio unearths a time capsule in this incredible retro-style RPG.

Polygon

Josh Broadwell·Aug 28, 2023

Critic—

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Join Zale and Valere on a quest to fight an evil being known as The Fleshmancer

Eurogamer

Kaan Serin·Aug 28, 2023

Critic80/100

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Eurogamer's review of Sea of Stars, an RPG throwback with smart, modern craft.

PC Gamer

Kerry Brunskill·Aug 28, 2023

Critic79/100

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A throwback RPG that avoids mindlessly copying the '90s greats that inspired it.

Game Informer

Kyle Hilliard·Aug 28, 2023

Critic90/100

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Sea of Stars is a smooth, consistently thrilling adventure with fun combat, all in a gorgeous and inviting world.

GamesRadar+

Jon Bailes·Aug 28, 2023

Critic90/100

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It's a joy and a relief to realise that Sabotage hasn't merely mimicked classic '90s JRPG, but committed to understanding what makes them tick

Push Square

Stephen Tailby·Aug 28, 2023

Critic80/100

Agreement—

Overall, Sea of Stars is immensely enjoyable from start to finish. While it's been inspired by various classic RPGs, it sets itself apart with an engaging story, some brilliant characters, and surprisingly deep lore. On top of that, the combat is great fun thanks to its involving, strategic mechanics, and exploring the gorgeous pixelated world is rewarding. It isn't perfect, but it overcomes any flaws with its charming presentation, a world ripe with things to see and do, and no shortage of personality.

Nintendo Life

Mitch Vogel·Aug 28, 2023

Critic90/100

Agreement—

Sea of Stars is a sensational achievement for Sabotage. The studio is two for two in providing impressively designed and genuinely innovative takes on classic genres. Some pacing issues aside, the complex narrative, deep and strategic combat, thoughtful level design, and fantastic visuals and music all combine to make this one of the easiest recommendations we can make. If you consider yourself a fan of old-school RPGs, you must play Sea of Stars. And if not? The execution and polish here are so good that we'd suggest you give it a try anyway. There are few games that would be a better introduction and representation of what makes JRPGs great. Sea of Stars is an instant classic and a new high-water mark for modern retro-styled indies. You really shouldn't miss out.

Pure Xbox

PJ O'Reilly·Aug 28, 2023

Critic100/100

Agreement—

Sea of Stars is an exhilarating and absorbing indie gem that serves up delightfully clever turn-based RPG action in a world that's packed full of great characters, fun puzzles and genuine emotional heft. Sabotage Studios served up a bonafide banger with 2018's The Messenger, but this time around they've gone a step further, crafting an RPG adventure that's every bit the equal of the stone-cold classics it takes inspiration from. Don't spoil this one for yourself, dive in as blind as you can and enjoy a truly magical journey that's easily one of the best games you'll play this year and an absolutely essential addition to Xbox Game Pass.

IGN

Gabriel Moss·Aug 28, 2023

Critic80/100

Agreement—

Sea of Stars is an excellent tribute RPG that channels the best parts of its ‘90s-era forebears. It's not wholly original, but there are enough twists in its story to keep it interesting after the combat loses its luster.

Rock Paper Shotgun

Katharine Castle·Aug 28, 2023

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A beautifully made retro-inspired RPG that will instantly transport you back to the 16-bit golden years, for better or worse.