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Review of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy on Xbox Series X/S

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Oct 2021
Cover image of Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy on Xbox Series X/S
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Released: 26 Oct 2021
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Eidos-Montréal
Publisher: Square Enix

Introduction

In a galaxy filled with cosmic chaos, there's one group that never quite knows what they're doing, yet somehow manages to save the day (or explode along the way)-the Guardians of the Galaxy. In this humorous adventure brought to you by Eidos-Montréal and Square Enix, you strap on your air guitar as Star-Lord, yell at your somewhat dysfunctional team, and pray your choices don't end with you floating amongst the space debris. So, grab some popcorn and let's dive into this chaotic romp through the cosmos!

Gameplay

You play as Peter Quill, the charming yet somewhat oblivious self-proclaimed leader of this ragtag crew. The gameplay leans heavily on your ability to master the fine art of yelling orders at your team while blasting enemies with elemental guns and indulging in some rockstar-style bravado. Each Guardian can be commanded during combat for elaborate tactics, such as asking Drax to charge into everything or having Gamora slash her way through enemies like a sushi chef on a caffeine rush. The combat involves a lot of mindless button mashing adorned with the occasional strategy when you remember that you have a team. Sure, you could solo those baddies, but why do that when you can watch Drax throw a giant rock at them while you throw in some elemental shot combos? It's beautiful chaos! Let's not forget those all-important dialogue trees. Your choices matter...sort of. While the overarching plot remains relatively fixed, your interactions can shape relationships with your teammates, leading to hilarious banter and some surprisingly heartfelt moments. It's like a drama club crash-landing into an intergalactic opera. Nothin' screams adventure like arguing with a raccoon and trying to contain a tree's anxiety about his size amongst some unwieldy foes!

Graphics

Graphically, Guardians of the Galaxy struts its stuff with vibrant, dynamic visuals that pull you right into its occasionally psychedelic universe. The art direction is reminiscent of a colorful comic book, which is fitting given the source material. Facial animations and character models are stellar, especially during those heartfelt post-mission cutscenes where you might just shed a tear-between the laughs, of course. The environments boast a charming mix of alien worlds that are as varied as the personalities in the crew. Who knew a swamp could feel so alive and yet utterly terrifying at the same time?

Conclusion

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy isn't without its flaws. Some might argue that the gameplay can devolve into button-mashing chaos, and certain mechanics could use a bit more depth. But honestly, if you're looking for a heartwarming, hilarious, and somewhat chaotic tale of redemption and unity in a universe where even a tree can be a hero, then look no further. The Guardians are here to remind us all that family is what you make it-plus it helps that you've got a gun and a raccoon by your side. While it might not be the savior we expected, it sure does keep us entertained in the most unexpected ways. Now, if only we could convince them to stop arguing about whose turn it is to pilot the Milano!

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