Chapter 1: Introduction to Biomutant

The audio aspect of a video game can significantly influence its overall success. Unfortunately, Biomutant falters in this regard.

Created by a small team of just 20 developers at Experiment 101, Biomutant debuted a year ago on platforms like PS4 and Xbox One. It also runs on newer consoles, with the Series S and X offering a resolution upgrade to 4K, while the PS5 lacks additional features.

My initial intention was to immerse myself in the expansive world of Biomutant shortly after its release, aiming to compose an in-depth review. This was supposed to mark a transition in my writing focus from tech products to gaming.

However, my plans were derailed when I encountered the game. The experience felt laborious. It begins with a rather disheartening logo animation for the developer and unfortunately does not improve much from there. The character creation process is quite expressive, but without prior gameplay, it’s challenging to make informed choices. Combat feels loose and lacks precision, marred by numerous visual glitches, including a frequent issue where the main character appears to float above the ground. Actions such as opening doors or attacking lack the satisfying impact that is essential in gaming. Additionally, the game seems to draw heavily from various Asian cultures, blending elements in a way that feels more odd than offensive.

The limited budget adversely affects not only the visuals but also the audio. The game features only a handful of voice actors for the majority of its English dialogue, with much of the spoken content presented in a fictional language. While a patch improved the timing of translations, the pacing of dialogue scenes still lags behind those found in larger open-world games.

Some might argue that it’s unjust to compare a game developed by such a small team with larger projects. However, the world they crafted is undeniably impressive. The lush landscapes and captivating locations stand out as the game’s primary strength. The thrill of exploration in Biomutant is truly engaging, boasting numerous intriguing areas that would typically be expected from a far more extensive production.

Despite my initial disappointment, I’ve returned to Biomutant multiple times, drawn by its vibrant world. Yet, I quickly remember the various issues that plague the experience. Still, I could overlook these flaws if the game excelled in one critical area: sound design.

Regrettably, Biomutant suffers from some of the most abysmal sound design, mixing, and editing that I have encountered in a full-priced video game. From start to finish, the audio experience is so lackluster that it makes the other shortcomings seem minor. Sound effects are either too faint or completely absent. The ambient sounds are nearly nonexistent, and the spatial audio cues, crucial for a character action game, fail to function effectively.

Given the vibrant visuals of Biomutant, one would expect to hear a rich tapestry of jungle sounds, complete with birds and wildlife. Players would anticipate distinct footstep noises across various surfaces and impactful combat sounds that heighten the excitement of battles and provide critical feedback.

Unfortunately, the game does not deliver on these expectations. Footsteps often go unheard, while environmental sounds are limited to a gentle breeze. Combat noises are muted, with little indication of approaching enemies and weapon effects that are poorly balanced within the overall sound mix. Strikes between weapons lack satisfying audio feedback, further diminishing the already floaty combat feel.

With a properly crafted audio mix, this game could elevate itself from mediocrity to cult status. It contains a wealth of fun, intriguing concepts, yet the sound design resembles the dull thud of wet noodles on pavement. As someone who frequently reviews gaming headsets and audio equipment, even the most basic TV speakers reveal how bland the soundscape is.

I hesitate to pile on the criticism. I recognize the remarkable achievement of this small team, but it’s evident that the majority of their effort was concentrated on creating a vast open world with appealing visuals. The game features a variety of skills to unlock and items to collect, comparable to titles developed by teams many times larger.

What I truly wish for is some semblance of sound design. Just a hint of audio to complement the stunning visuals. Effective sound is what transforms a production from amateur to professional, akin to the difference between a poorly made video and a well-shot film. Quality audio fosters a sense of immersion, enabling players to suspend disbelief and enjoy the fictional adventure.

In our everyday lives, we navigate through intricate sound environments, so it’s natural to expect the same dynamism from video games. Playing Biomutant feels akin to being trapped in a soundproof box, occasionally interrupted by a sword clattering to the floor. It stands out as one of the most disappointing audio experiences I've encountered in gaming.

Chapter 2: Exploring Video Critiques

In the video "What Went Wrong? - Biomutant," the reviewer delves into the various shortcomings of the game, highlighting the issues that hindered its potential.

The follow-up review, "I Definitely Do Not Recommend: Biomutant," offers a critical perspective on the game, discussing why it fails to meet expectations.