A Golden Wake

The main pros of the game

• Atmosphere and Historical Detail: The game is praised for its well-researched historical backdrop set in 1920s Miami, with a charming Art Deco aesthetic and a jazzy soundtrack that enhances the immersive experience.
• Unique Narrative: Players appreciate the unconventional story arc that focuses on the rise and fall of a morally grey character, Alfie Banks, rather than typical heroics, providing a deeper character study.
• Visual and Audio Quality: The pixel art style is considered nostalgic and detailed, while the voice acting, though mixed, has standout performances that contribute positively to the experience.
• Engaging Puzzles: While some puzzles are criticized, others are seen as organic and integrated into the narrative, with a mix of dialogue-driven negotiation sequences that add variety.

The main cons of the game

• Uneven Puzzle Design: Some puzzles are viewed as contrived or repetitive, particularly the persuasion mini-games, which can disrupt the game's flow.
• Pacing Issues: The game’s pacing is inconsistent, with a brisk first half that slows down significantly in the later chapters, leading to a less engaging experience.
• Technical Problems: Some players reported crashes that negatively impacted their experience, requiring them to replay significant portions of the game.
• Flat Writing and Characters: Several reviews noted that the writing and character development felt flat, making it difficult for players to connect emotionally with the story.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Depth in Characterization: Players expressed a desire for more complex and engaging character arcs, especially for the protagonist and supporting characters.
• Challenging Puzzles: Some users felt that the puzzles were too straightforward, lacking the complexity found in other point-and-click adventure games, leading to a less challenging experience.
• More Interactive Gameplay: A few reviews mentioned that the game felt more like a visual novel than a traditional point-and-click adventure, indicating a desire for more interactive elements and exploration.
• Emotional Resonance: There were comments about the need for more emotional depth in the writing, as some players felt the narrative did not evoke the intended emotional responses.

Summary

• Overall, "A Golden Wake" is recognized for its unique historical setting and atmosphere, but it faces criticism regarding its puzzle design, pacing, and character development.

Summary generated on: November 24, 2025