The reviews for South of Midnight are finally in, as Compulsion Games and Xbox Game Studios welcome feedback on their latest third-person action-adventure offering. With the embargo now lifted, critics are diving into what this game has to offer.
Through the lens of various reviews, most critics are resonating with the game’s story, artistic direction, and the immersive soundtrack it boasts. However, there’s a mixed bag of opinions when it comes to the combat and some gameplay mechanics.
Currently, South of Midnight holds a score of 78 on Metacritic from 62 reviews, aligning with its 78 score on Opencritic, which aggregates feedback from 75 reviews.
Below, I’ve compiled a collection of notable quotes and scores from various gaming outlets:
GamingTrend, scoring it 95 out of 100, remarked, “South of Midnight is a masterclass in selecting a theme and weaving it throughout the game. The use of music to enhance character and lore is exemplary. From character designs to the music, every element displays a commitment to style.”
Pure Xbox, rating it 9 out of 10, commented, “South of Midnight triumphs in capturing soul, charm, and personality. While not perfect, especially in combat, it’s a delightful experience that I hope Xbox Game Studios replicates more often.”
PCMag awarded it an 8 out of 10, saying, “The game revolves around growth, discovery, and navigating fear through curiosity and empathy. Despite familiar action-adventure mechanics, it rewards players with rich Southern culture. Like a cherished heirloom, it’s imperfect but holds value, making it a contender for game of the year and deserving our Editors’ Choice accolade.”
Inverse gave it a 7 out of 10, appreciating its “endless imagination and stylish presentation,” making it a solid weekend pick for Game Pass subscribers, though not quite hitting the mark as a standout single-player action title.
Eurogamer, with a score of 6 out of 10, critiqued its broad appeal approach, suggesting it loses the depth of interactivity and unique identity beyond recognizable platforming and fighting formulas.
As I read through these opinions, it’s clear that while some aspects, like the setting and story, are broadly praised, others like combat invite more debate. Personally, I found a lot to love in this narrative about a young Weaver determined to save her mother. I rated it 4 out of 5 in our review, hoping Hazel’s journey is just the beginning for future stories. The game is a beautiful homage to the Southern Gothic style, leaving me with a deeper appreciation and hoping others find similar resonance.
Set to release on April 8, 2025, South of Midnight will be available on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC (via Steam and the Xbox PC app). It will also be accessible through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, with early access granted to those who opt for the Premium Edition.
