Video Game Review: Songs of Silence
Overall Rating: 8.2/10
- Gameplay: 8/10
- Graphics and Art Style: 9.5/10
- Sound and Music: 9.5/10
- Replayability: 7.0/10
- Performance and Optimization: 7.0/10
Introduction
Songs of Silence, developed by Chimera Entertainment, is a story-rich 4X strategy game that uniquely blends exploration, fast-paced military conquest, and rogue-lite progression. Set in a visually stunning fantasy world, the game challenges players to lead one of three distinct factions, each with unique units and abilities, as they navigate a land torn by conflict and the encroaching threat of Silence. The game is available on platforms including PC and PlayStation 5. I found it a refreshing 4x albeit limited (MORE RACES and MAPS!!).
Gameplay (8/10)
Songs of Silence offers a fresh take on the 4X strategy genre by integrating turn-based exploration with fast-paced, real-time auto-battles. Players manage their kingdoms, recruit armies, and engage in battles where strategic planning and card-based abilities play crucial roles.
Strengths:
- Innovative Battle System: The combination of auto-battling mechanics with card-driven special abilities adds depth and dynamism to combat, allowing players to influence battles through strategic card play.
- Distinct Factions: Each faction offers unique units and playstyles, encouraging players to experiment with different strategies and approaches. Songs of Silence
Weaknesses:
- Limited Strategic Depth: Some players may find the strategic elements lacking in complexity, with kingdom management and expansion feeling less impactful than expected.
- Repetitive Gameplay: The reliance on auto-battles and limited control during combat can lead to a sense of repetitiveness over extended play sessions.
Graphics and Art Style (9.5/10)
The game is lauded for its stunning Art Nouveau-inspired visuals, which set it apart from other titles in the genre.
Strengths:
- Unique Aesthetic: The Art Nouveau style provides a fresh and visually appealing experience, with intricate designs and vibrant colors. Songs of Silence
- Detailed Environments: Hand-crafted maps and beautifully designed units enhance immersion and bring the fantasy world to life. Songs of Silence
Weaknesses:
- Performance Issues: The high-quality visuals can lead to performance challenges, particularly on lower-end systems, affecting frame rates and overall smoothness. Steam Deck HQ
Sound and Music (9.5/10)
Composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto, renowned for his work on titles like Final Fantasy Tactics, the soundtrack of Songs of Silence is both atmospheric and memorable.
Strengths:
- Immersive Soundtrack: The music enhances the game’s atmosphere, complementing the visual style and narrative. Songs of Silence
- Quality Voice Acting: Well-executed voice performances add depth to the story and characters, enriching the overall experience. Songs of Silence
Weaknesses:
- Limited Audio Variety: Some players may desire a broader range of musical themes to accompany different gameplay scenarios.
Replayability (7.0/10)
While the game offers multiple factions and a story-rich campaign, some aspects may limit its replay value.
Strengths:
- Multiple Factions: Diverse factions with unique units and abilities encourage players to replay the game to experience different strategies. Songs of Silence
- Skirmish Mode: The inclusion of a skirmish mode with randomly generated maps provides additional gameplay beyond the main campaign. Songs of Silence
Weaknesses:
- Linear Campaign: The story-driven campaign may feel linear to some players, reducing the desire for multiple playthroughs.
- Limited Content: As of its current release, the game may lack the depth and variety found in other titles within the genre, potentially impacting long-term engagement.
Performance and Optimization (7.0/10)
Performance varies across platforms, with some players reporting issues.
Strengths:
- Controller Support: The game is fully playable with a controller, providing a comfortable experience on platforms like the Steam Deck. Steam Deck HQ
Weaknesses:
- High Resource Demand: The game is power-intensive, leading to high power draw and battery consumption on devices like the Steam Deck. Steam Deck HQ
- Text Size Issues: Some players have reported difficulties with small text size, leading to eye strain during extended play sessions. Steam Deck HQ
Final Verdict
Songs of Silence presents a visually stunning and musically captivating experience that brings a fresh perspective to the 4X strategy genre. Its innovative blend of turn-based exploration and real-time auto-battles offers a unique gameplay experience, though it may not satisfy players seeking deep strategic control. Performance issues and limited replayability are areas for improvement, but the game’s artistic achievements and engaging narrative make it a noteworthy title for fans of strategy games.
Impartial Reviews 