NeverAwake

 PC
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 9 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 9
  3. Negative: 0 out of 9
  1. Gamer Escape
    Oct 4, 2022
    90
    NeverAwake is a truly polished gem, an absolute pleasure from start to finish. The short levels, simple controls, and satisfying challenge all combine to make it oh so tempting to play “just one more level” until you’ve binged the whole game. While there are certainly a few areas here and there that feel less polished, they really focused on the core that makes for a great shooter.
  2. Hey Poor Player
    Oct 3, 2022
    90
    Small issues aside, NeverAwake is still a transcendent and shockingly enjoyable adventure. Not only did I get invested in the story of the game, but the gameplay constantly kept me on my toes, and was a balanced challenge. While some may be irritated by the hardcore vibe of the game, I’d say this is a title that almost any gamer can appreciate. Add in the low price, and this is a must own adventure.
  3. GameSpew
    Sep 27, 2022
    90
    One of the most inventive and interesting twin-stick shooters we’ve played in some time. From its meticulously-created enemies to its responsive controls, everything here has been tuned for your enjoyment. And so once you’ve started playing, chances are you’ll have a hard time pulling yourself away from it. If you’re a fan of twin-stick shooters, make sure you check this out.
  5. PC Invasion
    Sep 27, 2022
    85
    Neverawake doesn't just have stellar graphics, it offers up some really special shmup gameplay with a surprising amount of content.
  6. Tech-Gaming
    Nov 9, 2022
    83
    Innovative and thoroughly polished, NeverAwake is ideal for shooter fans seeking a Burton-esque excursion.
  7. IGN Japan
    Nov 20, 2022
    80
    From graphics to game design, music and general playfeel, everything in NeverAwake is of surprisingly high quality. It reminded us of why we love shmups. Nearing the end of the game, the difficulty spikes and can feel a bit unfair, but that can also be seen as a part of the game’s identity as a shmup.
  8. KeenGamer
    Oct 12, 2022
    80
    NeverAwake is a simple scrolling arcade twin-stick shooter. It is nothing new, but it does not need to be, as it does what it tries to pretty well. The game is fun with its good gameplay and art style. The powerups are well-paced alongside the game's difficulty, naturally ramping up in a way that felt challenging but never frustrating. The story acts as an emotional backdrop that creatively drives the gameplay.
  9. Movies Games and Tech
    Oct 5, 2022
    80
    Simply put, NeverAwake is a smooth, responsive, and entertaining shoot ‘em up. The gameplay is both fast-paced and increasingly challenging, offering a lot of replayability. Artistically, the unique blend of realism and abstract imagery perfectly illustrates the nightmarish aesthetic. Likewise, the sound design and original OST accompany the games conceptual thematic phenomenally well. Most of all though, the emotionally charged narrative is portrayed in such a way that almost anyone can relate to it. I sincerely hope that NeverAwake gets the attention it deserves. And at £15, I cannot recommend this game enough.
  10. Worth Playing
    Sep 27, 2022
    75
    Twin-stick shooter fans will certainly have some fun with NeverAwake. The short levels make it perfect for quick, on-the-go bursts of shooting, while the actual shooting and power-ups make for a fun and challenging experience. It looks and sounds great, while the presence of two different endings gives the game some replayability. That said, the story isn't all that compelling considering that we've seen it used before, and the game can start to feel like it's running on for too long due to the sameness in some levels.