Last year, Compulsion Games took a hefty gamble with their latest original game, South of Midnight, for Xbox platforms. But it paid off tremendously, showing the range and depth that the studio could become known for. And now it’s on other platforms, recently making its debut on PlayStation 5 (which we’re reviewing it on) and Nintendo Switch 2. With that, it’s safe to say that if you missed it before, you shouldn’t miss it now.
Though some parts of Midnight are pretty straightforward when it comes to Hazel’s journey to find her mother in a gothic bayou, it’s still compelling stuff. That’s because of the rich presentation that the developers wrap the game around. If the deep, twangy music doesn’t win you over, the colorful, inventive visuals will.
I do wish there was more to the game’s combat, which is pretty cut and dry. However, the platforming is a genuine touch, and later parts of the game are highly enjoyable, as they move the story along. Plus, as a reminder, it’s about the journey, not the destination. South of Midnight certainly packs a good one.
It may not look like your typical gaming fare, but trust me. South of Midnight has enough essence and goodness to sway you back to the bayou.
South of Midnight Packs On the Story
When you begin South of Midnight, it starts off fairly simple. You’re Hazel, a young woman living in a mysterious land where a storm suddenly sweeps in. That forces her to part ways with her mother as their house is swept away. Thus, she begins a journey into beautiful New Orleans lands filled with mystery and chaos, hoping to figure it all out.
And, really, story piles on pretty thick with this game. If the main journey doesn’t get you, chances are the secondary missions will. You’ll learn all about triumph and heartbreak along the way, in a style that Compulsion Games truly nails here. In fact, the story is the genuine reason to stick out the adventure, just to see where Hazel’s tale comes to a close.
The platforming is excellent, as you earn new abilities like hovering and double jump, as well as a cool wall-running technique and more. That’s good, because the combat falls a slight bit flat. It is cool how you have to liberate dark spirits after you defeat them, but I wish there were more weapons and stylish moves to unlock. Still, at least it works moderately well.
All of this ties together into an adventure that will take you several hours to beat. That includes tracking down helpful secrets and discovering each secondary tale, including some involving strange creatures. (Why, yes, that is a large catfish, why do you ask?) Some might balk at the slightly higher price, but this definitely lives up to the value when it comes to content. Plus, again, the storytelling is very well done here.
The only turnoff might be with it going heavy on its New Orleans drawl. But I appreciate this innovative approach, and chances are if you’re looking for an original style of game, you will too. South of Midnight is pretty great on the adventure end. I just wished the combat was allowed to evolve further.
South of Midnight Has That Sweet Presentation
The gameplay definitely measures up with South of Midnight, but where it truly excels is with its presentation. This one has style aplenty.
Visually, the game is spectacular. It features solid 60 FPS (on the PlayStation 5 itself), with additional goodies for PS5 Pro owners. The way the lands unfold is astonishing, with lots of surprises and style aplenty. And some of these characters – like that catfish – are absolutely welcoming. This is easily one of the better looking adventure games out there. Also, dare I say that the stop-motion effects are the best I’ve seen in a video game this generation? They really are.
As for audio, just wow. Along with top notch voice acting (keep an ear out for Ahmed Best from the Star Wars universe) and solid sound effects, the music is nothing short of incredible. There’s a wide assortment of lively and heartbreaking tunes available here, along with atmospheric touches that really get you involved in this magical world. Grab your headset for this one and get ready for a ride.
Set the Time For South of Midnight
If you can accept the slightly flat combat gameplay and some slight hitches here and there, you won’t mind the adventure South of Midnight takes you on. It’s really a compelling journey, loaded with narrative galore and an imaginative design that brings the world to life. Plus the soundtrack can’t be beat, really engulfing you in that New Orleans mood.
I know Starfield just dropped for PS5 and all, and that could easily take your attention. But save some time for Midnight, because you’ll savor the flavor it brings to the table. Just like a good ol’ bowl of real gumbo!
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Microsoft for providing us with a review code! South of Midnight is available now for Xbox, PlayStation,Steam/PC and Nintendo Switch 2. It’s also available on Xbox Game Pass!
Need another Microsoft adventure for your PS5? Check out our review of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle!
