Reviews for South of Midnight Are Here — A Complete Roundup

The embargo has been lifted, and the much-anticipated reviews for "South of Midnight," the latest third-person action-adventure game from Compulsion Games and Xbox Game Studios, have begun streaming in.

A quick glance at the feedback shows that critics generally have found a lot to appreciate about the game. They’re particularly fond of the narrative, the striking art direction, and its seamless soundtrack. However, opinions start to diverge when it comes to the combat and certain gameplay elements.

As of this writing, "South of Midnight" has secured a respectable score of 78 on Metacritic, drawn from 62 different reviews. It echoes the sentiment seen on Opencritic, where it stands at the same score, but from an even more comprehensive array of 75 reviews.

Here are some of the notable scores and comments from a selection of gaming outlets:

• GamingTrend (95/100): They hail "South of Midnight" as a true exemplar of thematic consistency. They laud how the game’s music intertwines with its world and lore, enhancing the overall experience. For GamingTrend, this title sets a high bar for stylistic commitment.

• Pure Xbox (9/10): Their review paints the game as a bit of a revelation. While some combat mechanics might need refining, the spirit, character, and allure win them over, portraying it as an ideal example of what Xbox Game Studios should pursue more often.

• PCMag (8/10): PCMag views the game as a poignant exploration of personal growth and understanding. While the gameplay may rely on familiar genre conventions, it compensates with rich Southern cultural flair. Flaws aside, they deem it a cherished experience worthy of their Editors’ Choice award.

• Inverse (7/10): According to them, though the game’s boundless creativity and sleek presentation make it a delightful weekend play, it falls short of becoming the standout single-player experience they were hoping for.

• Eurogamer (6/10): They critique the game’s attempt to cast a wide net. In wanting to broaden its audience, they feel the game loses some of its potential for unique identity and interactivity, relying too heavily on traditional platforming and fighting elements.

Now, about the game itself—journeying through "South of Midnight" is an eye-catching spectacle, unfolding in a way that few games manage to achieve. While there’s consensus on the vivid setting and compelling story, the disparity arises when weighing how deeply these elements resonate with players.

Personally, I’ve been captivated by Hazel’s journey to rescue her mother. I’ve awarded "South of Midnight" 4 out of 5 stars in my review, expressing a desire to see more of Hazel’s story. It’s a heartfelt tribute to Southern Gothic traditions, a portrayal of Southern essence that leaves a lasting impression.

"South of Midnight" is set to launch on April 8, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC platforms, available through Steam and the Xbox PC app. As part of Xbox’s first-party lineup, it’s included in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. Those eager to dive in can access it early by purchasing the Premium Edition.