Among Us
" Engaging casual party game with social deduction and cross-platform play but toxic lobbies "
Among Us Review
Among Us is a social deduction party game that combines simple mechanics with deep psychological gameplay, creating a unique experience centered around deception, teamwork, and deduction. Players take on roles as crewmates completing tasks or impostors attempting to sabotage and eliminate others without detection. The game thrives on social interaction, making it especially enjoyable with friends or groups who communicate well. Its cross-platform play and customizable cosmetics add to its appeal.
While the game boasts high replayability and engaging social dynamics, it faces challenges such as repetitive tasks, reliance on player engagement, and issues with public lobbies often filled with disruptive or inexperienced players. Bugs and penalties for leaving matches prematurely also frustrate some users. Despite these flaws, frequent updates and mods have added new roles and features, keeping the experience fresh for many. Overall, it remains a beloved title for casual and social gaming, though best enjoyed with a trusted group.
Highlights
Among Us' gameplay mechanics shine through its easy-to-learn yet strategic social deduction elements, fostering intense and hilarious interactions. The minimalist 2D graphics complement the gameplay by focusing attention on player dynamics rather than visual complexity. The storyline is minimal but the emergent narratives from player interactions create memorable experiences. Cross-platform support and a variety of maps and customization options enhance replayability. Mods further enrich gameplay by introducing new roles and modes. The game’s social energy and the thrill of deception are consistently praised, making it a standout in party and multiplayer genres.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the repetitive nature of tasks and gameplay after extended play, which can reduce long-term engagement. Public lobbies are often described as chaotic or toxic, with many players leaving mid-game or behaving disruptively, which harms the experience. The game’s penalty system for leaving matches is seen as harsh and frustrating, especially when caused by bugs or connection issues. Some players feel the addition of new roles has complicated the original simplicity, and that matchmaking or better lobby filtering is needed to improve player quality. Bugs and account glitches also detract from overall enjoyment.
Pros
- • Engaging social deduction gameplay ideal for groups and friends.
- • Simple mechanics that are easy to learn and accessible to all players.
- • Cross-platform play allows friends to join regardless of device.
- • High replayability with varied maps and customizable settings.
- • Customization options including skins, hats, pets, and mods.
- • Mods add fresh roles and game modes enhancing variety.
- • Minimalist 2D graphics keep focus on social interaction.
Cons
- • Public lobbies often chaotic, toxic, and filled with disruptive players.
- • Repetitive tasks and gameplay can become tedious over time.
- • Penalty system for leaving matches can be harsh and frustrating.
- • Lack of voice communication in public matches reduces engagement.
- • Matchmaking system is absent, leading to poor lobby quality.
- • New roles complicate gameplay and may imbalance original dynamics.
- • Bugs and glitches cause connection issues and account problems.
Rating Criteria
An online and local party game of teamwork and betrayal for 4-15 players...in space!
