Mato Anomalies Review for PlayStation 5

A game that seemingly came out of nowhere, this turn-based RPG called “Mato Anomalies,” developed by Arrowiz, takes players on a very “extra” ride where the developers seemingly added way too many ingredients to this dish. Journey across Mato, a fantasized neo-futuristic version of a bygone oriental city. The game is centered around two Protagonists Doe and Gram, who players control to investigate strange anomalies around the city or venture into rifts to battle demonic abominations that threaten to destroy said city. Doe is more of the investigator and Gram is more of the dungeon ass-kicker. Boy let me tell you, this is a story that is full of unexpected twists and turns, normally that would be a good thing, but when more simplicity is needed, “Mato Anomalies” decides to double down and try to get even crazier and harder to keep up with.

One of the stand-out features of this title is that it allows players to take control of not just a single character but two very distinct leads. As stated earlier, private detective Doe, players must gather intel and knowledge to unravel the mystery behind the city, while as the resolute exorcist Gram, they must venture into rifts and battle demonic abominations with their incisive arsenal. The game encourages players to find clues throughout Mato by talking to NPCs, taking on missions, and visiting shops to pinpoint Rifts, portals to the demonic creatures attacking the city. Once players enter the Rifts, they must defeat the demons in battle to collect abundant rewards.

While the game’s premise is intriguing, its story is convoluted and written in such a confusing way. The plot can be difficult to follow, making it hard for players to connect with the game’s two leading protagonists. The game’s story eventually becomes more insane when apocalyptic elements and time travel are thrown in. The game is also very much a visual novel, with a comic book/manga-style to it, as well as regular 3D-style cutscenes. “Mato” features tons of dialogue scenes to read, and the characters often go on long-winded tangents to the point where you almost forget what you’re doing. The game’s dialogue can be a bit overbearing at times, but it is well-written and if you manage to get sucked into it, you will have a decent time.
There are also deck-building elements that may not be everyone’s cup of tea. The game requires players to build a deck of cards that represent their abilities and attacks, and while this system can be fun, it can also be tedious at times. The game’s character design is well-done, and the dungeons are cool-looking and basic at the same time. However, the actual city of Mato is really pretty and detailed. The dungeons are the most fun aspect of the game, and players will find themselves immersed in the game’s unique dungeon-crawling experience. Having said that though, the rest of the game feels like filler in comparison. The lack of strong direction makes the game feel messy and not all that focused, but the developers have the right ingredients to create something special down the line.

Overall, “Mato Anomalies” is an interesting turn-based RPG to say the least that may appeal to fans of the genre. The game’s character designs and dungeon aesthetics are visually pleasing, and the game’s story is intriguing despite being excessively convoluted. With dialogue being overbearing, and the deck-building elements that didn’t really work for me it’s difficult to give this title a strong grade. The lack of strong direction makes the game feel really messy and not all that focused, but the developers have the right ingredients here to create something special down the line.

6/10

For more information, visit HERE

Related: Nick Navarro Reviews

Nick Navarro

Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87

• Destiny 2 - The Final Shape Review for PlayStation 5
• SYSTEM SHOCK Review for PlayStation 5
• Indika Review for PlayStation 5
• Another Crab's Treasure Review for PlayStation 5