MiceGard: Review

This game was reviewed on Playstation 5

Reviewed by: David Cameron

When MiceGard was first announced, it instantly caught my attention. A game that promised a heartwarming yet action-packed adventure set in a medieval world of tiny warriors? Count me in. With the power of the PlayStation 5 backing it, expectations were high for MiceGard to deliver not only on gameplay but also on immersion and storytelling. After spending considerable time with the game, I found it to be a delightful journey filled with charming characters, stunning visuals, and enjoyable combat—but it also stumbles in a few key areas that hold it back from true greatness.

A Captivating World of Tiny Warriors

One of MiceGard's strongest aspects is its setting. The world of Rodentia is beautifully crafted, bringing to life a medieval kingdom where noble mice, cunning rats, and various woodland creatures coexist. The attention to detail in the world-building is fantastic. Every village, castle, and dense thicket feels alive, brimming with personality. The PlayStation 5's hardware ensures that everything looks stunning, from the way torchlight flickers off stone walls to the tiny pawprints left in the snow after an intense battle.

The character designs are equally impressive. The game's protagonist, Sir Whiskers, is a noble mouse clad in intricate armor that reflects his heroic spirit. The supporting cast, including the wise sage Barnaby the Owl and the mischievous rogue Squeaks, add depth to the world. Each NPC is brimming with personality, thanks to top-notch voice acting and expressive animations.

Engaging Combat with Room for Improvement

MiceGard features an action RPG combat system that blends fast-paced swordplay with strategic positioning. Players can wield a variety of weapons, from swift daggers to heavy war hammers, each offering different playstyles. The inclusion of parries, dodges, and special abilities makes fights feel engaging, and there's a certain thrill in taking down a towering rat brigand three times your size.

That said, combat isn't without its flaws. While the variety in weapons and movesets is appreciated, enemy AI can sometimes feel inconsistent. Some foes offer a genuine challenge, while others seem almost oblivious to the player's movements. Additionally, hit detection can be spotty at times, leading to frustrating moments where attacks don't connect as they should. While not game-breaking, these issues do slightly dampen the experience.

An Intriguing Story That Falters Near the End

At its heart, MiceGard tells a tale of honor, betrayal, and redemption. Players step into the paws of Sir Whiskers, a once-proud knight who must reclaim his fallen kingdom from the tyrannical Rat King. The journey takes players across sprawling landscapes, from the towering Great Oak Fortress to the mysterious Forgotten Burrows, uncovering secrets and forging alliances along the way.

The narrative starts strong, with well-crafted cutscenes and emotionally resonant moments. There's a genuine sense of camaraderie as Sir Whiskers interacts with his allies, and the game excels at making you care about its world. Unfortunately, the later portions of the story feel rushed. Certain plot twists lack impact due to underdeveloped character motivations, and the final confrontation with the Rat King, while visually stunning, feels anticlimactic in terms of gameplay challenge.

A Soundtrack Worth Squeaking About

A good soundtrack can elevate an adventure, and MiceGard delivers in this department. The orchestral score perfectly captures the game's whimsical yet grand tone. Tracks like Brave Whiskers' March inspire heroism, while the haunting melodies of The Forgotten Burrows set an eerie mood. Sound design is equally impressive, with clashing swords, the rustling of leaves, and the distant chatter of villagers adding to the immersive experience.

Exploration and Side Quests: A Mixed Bag

The world of Rodentia is filled with side quests, hidden treasures, and secret pathways. Exploring these areas is a joy, as each environment is rich with detail and storytelling. However, some side quests feel a bit repetitive. Many fall into the typical "fetch quest" formula, which can make them feel like filler rather than meaningful additions to the experience. That said, a few standout quests, such as the Lost Legends of the Library Owls, offer intriguing lore and challenging puzzles that make them worthwhile.

Technical Performance and Polish

On the technical side, MiceGard runs well on the PlayStation 5. Load times are nearly nonexistent, and the game takes full advantage of the DualSense controller's haptics. Feeling the resistance in Sir Whiskers' tiny yet powerful strikes adds an extra layer of immersion. However, there are occasional performance dips during large battles, and a handful of minor bugs, such as characters getting stuck in terrain, break the immersion. Hopefully, post-launch patches will address these issues.

Final Verdict: A Whisker Away from Greatness

MiceGard is an enchanting game that successfully crafts a rich world and engaging combat but struggles with polish and consistency. Its strong atmosphere, charming characters, and immersive soundtrack make it an easy recommendation for fans of whimsical action RPGs. However, issues with AI, repetitive quests, and a rushed conclusion prevent it from reaching the heights of similar genre greats.

That said, MiceGard is still a journey worth taking, especially for those who appreciate unique settings and heartfelt storytelling. With some refinements, a potential sequel could truly shine.

Reviewed by: David Cameron