The Golden Compass

 Xbox 360
The Golden Compass Image
Metascore
41

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 25 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
4.3

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 15 Ratings

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  • Summary: The Golden Compass follows the screenplay adaptation of the first book in the acclaimed trilogy, capturing the fantasy adventure set in a parallel world where giant armored bears rule a kingdom, beautiful witches fly through the frozen skies, and human beings' deepest essence is manifest asThe Golden Compass follows the screenplay adaptation of the first book in the acclaimed trilogy, capturing the fantasy adventure set in a parallel world where giant armored bears rule a kingdom, beautiful witches fly through the frozen skies, and human beings' deepest essence is manifest as talking animals that remain their faithful companion for life – their daemon. Players can assume the role of Lyra, a young girl, along with her daemon Pantalaimon (Pan), as she journeys through the frozen wastes of the North to rescue a friend kidnapped by a mysterious organization known as The Gobblers and winds up on an epic quest to save not only her world, but ours as well. Gamers can also take on the character of Iorek Byrnison, a great armoured polar bear who joins the quest. As Lyra, players use their daemon and collaborate with in-game characters, collecting special items in order to explore, evade, and deceive their way through confrontations with the Gobblers, the Magisterium, and the horribly dangerous spy fly to find her friend. They can also do battle as Iorek with special attacks and a riding mechanic as he protects Lyra during the journey. Gamers can unlock secrets and mini-games using a mysterious, truth-telling golden compass device called an alethiometer. Players can explore 13 vast locations, including all-new breath-taking environments not seen in the film, on this massive journey of collaboration, exploration and the eternal struggle between good and evil. [Sega]… Expand
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 25
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 25
  3. Negative: 19 out of 25
  1. Game Chronicles
    78
    Despite the mere average visuals and sound presentation (music not withstanding), The Golden Compass was a fun adventure and a fantastic gameplay experience that took me the better part of two days to complete.
  2. Official Xbox Magazine
    60
    There's no reason to play The Golden Compass unless the movie or book absolutely monopolizes your imagination. [Jan 2008, p.62]
  3. GameSpot
    45
    The Golden Compass is just another family-friendly film cash-in with few redeeming qualities.
  4. IGN
    35
    Even if you were completely charmed by Philip Pullman's work or enjoyed the movie adaptation, there's absolutely no reason to give this game a try. Even the music, as pretty as it is, can't redeem such poor gameplay and atrocious presentation.
  5. MEGamers
    32
    No matter how hard you look trying to find something good about this game, you won’t come up with anything. Trust me, I tried.
  6. GameDaily
    30
    The camera moves about uncontrollably, making it hard to navigate certain areas or get a lock on enemies. Do not walk in this game's direction.
  7. Game Revolution
    0
    In general, playing the game is a sinusoidal process of momentary elation as you uncover a new element, quickly followed by deep disappointment as you discover it’s a piece of crap.

See all 25 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 4
  3. Negative: 3 out of 4
  1. Daniel_N
    Feb 6, 2021
    6
    I wouldn’t say it’s terrible, the game has some good moments, but there are many moments where you want to just stop playing. However, thereI wouldn’t say it’s terrible, the game has some good moments, but there are many moments where you want to just stop playing. However, there are some moments during the game that were pretty neat.… Expand
  2. daredad
    May 9, 2013
    4
    I picked the game up for $0.99, and the game is pretty pathetic. True, there are enjoyable moments, like fighting a tank while riding on anI picked the game up for $0.99, and the game is pretty pathetic. True, there are enjoyable moments, like fighting a tank while riding on an armored bear, but for most of the game you're stuck playing boring mini games as Lyra instead of destroying monsters. Overall, it's worth my one dollar, but not much more.… Expand
  4. DaredadCrust
    Sep 5, 2013
    1
    The last three letters in the title 'The Golden Compass' literally define this game. I have never played a more boring game ever. You couldThe last three letters in the title 'The Golden Compass' literally define this game. I have never played a more boring game ever. You could read my science book and be more fascinated. If you hate someone, then this is a great gift to give them. If you give this to someone as a gift, they will most likely never speak to you again. If you give it to your spouse, (s)he will divorce you and move thousands of miles away. Anyone who loves this game is really stupid and needs their brain checked.… Expand
  5. Nikolai
    Dec 31, 2007
    0
    Why do software developers continue to create games based upon movies? No matter how much the studio offers you to make it, just say no. Why do software developers continue to create games based upon movies? No matter how much the studio offers you to make it, just say no. Almost every single time it's a dud. Boring gameplay for a relatively decent movie. Let the movie do its own business and stop selling out to make a few extra bucks. It will lend more credibility to you to develop original games rather than movie knock offs.… Expand