Reviews Are In for South of Midnight — Here’s a Summary

The embargo has been lifted, spawning a wave of reviews for South of Midnight, the latest action-adventure game by Compulsion Games and Xbox Game Studios.

Critics have generally embraced the game, with many praising its narrative, visual style, and music. However, opinions are split when it comes to the combat mechanics and some gameplay elements.

Currently, South of Midnight holds a score of 78 on both Metacritic and Opencritic, reflecting the verdict of dozens of reviews.

Here are some of the comments from various outlets:

• GamingTrend (95/100) describes South of Midnight as excellently coherent, fully embracing its thematic elements throughout. The game’s integration of music as part of its storytelling is highlighted as a standout feature.

• Pure Xbox (9/10) found the game to be charming and soulful, even if not without flaws. The combat might not be perfect, but the overall experience is satisfying and engaging.

• PCMag (8/10) appreciates the game for its depiction of growth and empathy, albeit sticking closely to familiar genre patterns. Despite its imperfections, it’s seen as a worthwhile contender for game of the year and a beloved experience.

• Inverse (7/10) sees it as a delightful weekend escape for Game Pass subscribers, though it misses the mark as a truly thrilling single-player adventure.

• Eurogamer (6/10) feels that while the game tries to reach a wide audience, it loses some depth in gameplay and distinct identity.

South of Midnight offers players a visually stunning journey. While some are divided over its combat mechanics, others celebrate its rich storytelling and evocative atmosphere. Personally, I gave it 4 out of 5 stars, captivated by the story of young Hazel Weaver’s quest to save her mother. It’s a heartfelt tribute to Southern Gothic, leaving a profound impression.

The game sees its official release on April 8, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC platforms, and is part of the Xbox Game Pass lineup. Those eager to jump in can opt for early access through the Premium Edition.