Bugsnax

What to Know

Critics Recommend

Average Score

Total Reviews: 67

Days

Hours

Minutes

Play It

Bugsnax is one of the more memorable games of the year, and it’ll take years to get its theme song out of your head, but it suffers from overly repetitive and unremarkable gameplay.

Play It

Critics Recommend

Critic Reviews: 67

Critics Consensus

# Reviews: 67

Bugsnax is one of the more memorable games of the year, and it'll take years to get its theme song out of your head, but it suffers from overly repetitive and unremarkable gameplay.

Where to Play

** VSG may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.

Rate and Review

What did you think of Bugsnax?

Player Reviews0 Votes

Critic Reviews for Bugsnax

Critic Reviews

Distribution

67

Reviews

High Score - 90/100

90%

Average Score - 77/100

77%

Low Score - 60/100

60%

Recommended

Charlie Hall (Polygon)

Ultimately, it’s that modern-day Mr. Rogers moralism that saves Bugsnax in the end. I’d happily recommend it to any family, and to any parent looking for a few hours to themselves — either in front of the screen for a bit of casual gameplay, or in the next room while the kids enjoy it all on their own.

November 9, 2020 |

Full Review

Bugsnax’ unique concept is so compelling you’ll want to see and catch every one of its cute, crawling culinary creatures.

November 9, 2020 |

Full Review

8/10

Mike Epstein (GameSpot)

4/5 stars

Sam Loveridge (GamesRadar+)

Bugsnax will be remembered for its brilliant crafted world, characters and titular Bugsnax for many years to come, despite some repetition and frustrating load times.

November 9, 2020 |

Full Review

Charlie Hall (Polygon)

Recommended - (Read Review)

Mike Epstein (GameSpot)

8/10 - (Read Review)

Bugsnax’ unique concept is so compelling you’ll want to see and catch every one of its cute, crawling culinary creatures.

Sam Loveridge (GamesRadar+)

4/5 stars - (Read Review)

Bugsnax will be remembered for its brilliant crafted world, characters and titular Bugsnax for many years to come, despite some repetition and frustrating load times.

**Read all 67 critic reviews on the desktop version of VSG.

Read the Reviews (67 total)

Outlet	Author	Score	Date	Quote	Read
BaziCenter	Mohammad Talebian	8 / 10	11-17-2020	Bugsnax, without a doubt, is the most strange and unique game of 2020. One that tries to show the deep layers of social relations in most simplistic ways possible.	Read review
Bazimag	Vahid Zohrabi Nejad	8.2 / 10	11-13-2020	Bugsnax is one of the loveliest and most interesting surprises of this year. Under the wacky and crazy skin it's been showing since its unveiling, there is a very deep and fun gameplay with a good story full of lovable characters that make this one the absolute must plays of today's market.	Read review
But Why Tho?	Eva Herinkova	9 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax has me thoroughly impressed. I have truly, madly, and deeply fallen in love with Snaktooth Island and its entertaining cast of characters. Chasing after Strabbys and Buffalocusts, bonding with the Grumpuses, and uncovering the mystery of Elizabert Megafig is an experience like no other. Not only is Bugsnax a brilliant launch title for the PlayStation 5, but a brilliant game in general that I cannot recommend enough. They’re kind of bug and kind of snack. What’s not to love?	Read review
Checkpoint Gaming	Edie W-K	8 / 10	11-12-2020	No matter how many times I get frustrated at the little things, I can never stay mad at Bugsnax. It’s got a perfect blend of exploration and narrative, with a story that climaxes in a surprising but satisfying way. It’s not exactly a Blockbuster title for the next generation of consoles, but it’s a delightful adventure with hidden depths. Due to the clunky controls while using a controller, my recommendation is for the PC version, but it’s a great time either way. I’ll be back to Snaktooth Island to catch more Bugsnax very soon.	Read review
COGconnected	Haley Perry	90 / 100	11-09-2020	The intriguing mysteries, colorful characters to befriend, and overall charm in everything from the voice acting to the design of the different Bugsnax makes this game a true winner. It vaguely feels like Pokémon for the new generation, and both children and adults will find a lot to love here. The controls are easy to master, the gameplay is superb, and there’s a lot to do on the reasonably-sized map. If you are what you eat, then I’m the happiest Cinnasnail this side of Snaktooth Island has ever seen.	Read review
Destructoid	CJ Andriessen	7 / 10	04-28-2022	It's been a while since I've played a game with a cast of characters that was so good it elevated the rest of the experience, but that's where I am with Bugsnax. Because they're brilliant. And the concept behind Snaktooth Island is equally brilliant. It's just the actual gameplay here, catching all those 'snax, isn't quite compelling enough to match that brilliance.	Read review
DualShockers	David Gill	8.5 / 10	11-09-2020	With its fun story and entertaining characters, Young Horses' Bugsnax is a charming game that shouldn't be missed -- whether you play on PS4 or PS5.	Read review
Easy Allies	Daniel Bloodworth	3.75 / 5 stars	11-14-2020	Bugsnax is a delightfully goofy way to start the generation with more personal storytelling than you might expect.	Read review
Eurogamer	Christian Donlan	Recommended	11-09-2020	An island filled with critters is the setting for one of the more memorable games of the year.	Read review
Everyeye.it	Francesco Fossetti	6.7 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a fun and light adventure, suitable for a young audience but able to intrigue even the most grown players. It tells a story of friendship and courage, but also of acceptance of diversity and peaceful coexistence. Meanwhile, it leads us to discover the funny Bugsnax, chasing the same curiosity that is typical of monster collectors at Pokémon. The game mechanics are simple and long distance not too diverse (a couple of extra tools and traps would not have hurt), but thanks to an ever-present script and some surprise related to legendary Bugsnax, ten hours on snacktooth island are more than willingly spent. The price is modest, the production commitment well adapted to the team's ambitions. It won't have a particularly bright imagination or impactful graphics, but from the discovery of the Formikebabs to the fight with pizzafalena, Bugsnax always manages to snatch an honest smile.	Read review
Expansive	Sam Diglett	Recommended	11-25-2020	Bugsnax is just an absolute delight on PlayStation 5. It runs smoothly, is very entertaining to play, and is one of the best examples of a third-party game making use of the DualSense – along with DiRT 5 but that’s another story. Whether you have a PS+ subscription or not, you simply must play Bugsnax to see how it makes use of Sony’s wonderful new controller and make space on your hard drive for a truly delightful adventure	Read review
Explosion Network	Dylan Blight	8.5 / 10	11-10-2020	The whole game oozes charm, heart and playing it just feels like a warm hug from start to finish.	Read review
Game Informer	Matt Miller	7 / 10	11-09-2020	Equal parts bizarre and good-hearted, Bugsnax is a breezy sequence of encounters and puzzles, but the continual errand structure of quests starts to feel like a chore	Read review
Game Revolution	Paul Tamburro	3 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is an enjoyably dark mystery that deftly handles mental health issues with a superbly voice acted cast of entertaining characters, despite its shortcomings as an adventure game.	Read review
Gameblog	Gianni Molinaro	7 / 10	11-16-2020	Bugsnax could have been a silly and divisive game from Octodad's creators. But in the end, underneath its weirdness, it is a tasty experience of hunting, collecting and puzzles with some great writing ans characters, that can entertain everyone for a few hours.	Read review
GameCrate	Angelo D'Argenio	8.3 / 10	11-19-2020	Bugsnax is a truly weird game that is worth trying just for the concept. As the theme song goes "Everyone's talkin' bout Bugsnax." Well not everyone, but maybe they should be.	Read review
GameGrin	Adam Hurd	9 / 10	11-12-2020	Bugsnax is special. Young Horses have a unique, interesting and charming concept that's been executed perfectly. There are a few nitpicks here and there but if you have any interest in Bugsnax you'll find a game unlike any other and one I can't stop saying good things about.	Read review
GamePro	Hannes Rossow	80 / 100	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is not a technical masterpiece, but full of creative ideas, fun gameplay mechanics and a lot of heart.	Read review
GamesBeat	Mike Minotti	60 / 100	11-09-2020	I applaud Bugsnax’s creativity. It’s not the most stimulating puzzle game, but it’s worth checking out if you can’t get that theme song out of your head	Read review
GameSkinny	David Jagneaux	7 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is memorable for its writing, world, and creative premise, but its more gamified elements somewhat spoil a delicious meal.	Read review
GameSpew	Kim Snaith	9 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a joyful, lovely experience from start to finish.	Read review
GameSpot	Jason Fanelli	8 / 10	04-28-2022	Bugsnax' unique concept is so compelling you'll want to see and catch every one of its cute, crawling culinary creatures.	Read review
GamesRadar+	Sam Loveridge	4 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax will be remembered for its brilliant crafted world, characters and titular Bugsnax for many years to come, despite some repetition and frustrating load times.	Read review
GameWatcher	Bogdan Robert Mateș	7 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a feel-good adventure with a lovable cast, a rich variety of tasty prey to hunt, but thoroughly unremarkable gameplay.	Read review
GameXplain	Adam Conner	Recommended	04-28-2022	Video Review	Read review
GamingTrend	David Flynn	80 / 100	05-04-2022	Bugsnax is an odd combination of Pokémon, a Cabela's hunting game, and Octodad. It's got a lot going for it in the fun gameplay, as well as a wonderful island filled with incredible creatures to discover. I do think the ending doesn't necessarily fit, and the backtracking is annoying, but it doesn't make the game unenjoyable. If you want the weirdest game of 2020 that's unusually entertaining, then pick up Bugsnax. Now if you'll excuse me, the Kero Kero Bonito song is stuck in my head again.	Read review
God is a Geek	Lyle Carr	9 / 10	04-28-2022	Bugsnax offers thrilling gameplay with a poignant story about community and hope that continues to keep you engrossed throughout. The plethora of bugsnax are well-designed and different, allowing you to come up with various ways to catch them. and the colourful island of Snaktooth is a lot of fun to explore.	Read review
GotGame	Daniel Ladiano	8 / 10	11-29-2020	Ultimately, Bugsnax is one charming adventure. Underneath the wacky exterior of outlandish critters lies a surprisingly heartfelt story. Even with its shortcomings and glitches, the game rises above thanks to its charm. This is a case of style over substance that manages to exceed expectations.	Read review
Guardian	Stacey Henley	4 / 5 stars	11-12-2020	This warm, strange, endearing puzzle game brings new meaning to an old axiom	Read review
Hardcore Gamer	Kirstin Swalley	4 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a relatively short title, taking roughly around ten hours or so to finish depending on if players go for full completion or not.	Read review
Hobby Consolas	Alberto Lloret	72 / 100	11-11-2020	Bugsnax in a narrative adventure with some interesting ideas, an unforgettable cast of characters, lovely designs and a great script... that fails as a showcase of PS5 technical power, with come trial and error loop in its gameplay that can be frustrating at times.	Read review
IGN	Simon Cardy	8 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a puzzle-adventure packed full of charm, mystery and a surprising amount of emotional depth.	Read review
IGN Spain	David Soriano	7.5 / 10	11-11-2020	Beyond its rather ugly aesthetic (so it's not really going to bring out the capabilities of PS5), Bugsnax has been a fun and original game that you arrive at by capturing its more than 100 Bugsnax and you stay for the story and character development.	Read review
INDIANTVCZ	Jakub Kadlus	8 / 10	01-25-2021	Bugsnax is a very interesting title, but it can only surprised you and delighted in the final. It may seem to you that this is only made for children, but don't let it fool you, because the older ones will enjoy the play.	Read review
LevelUp	Pedro Pérez Cesari	8 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a charming and creative game that can goes beyond its meme status by respecting the player's intelligence with fun mechanics and an interesting plot. The game makes you think outside the box and let's you have fun catching weird animals. I hope that after its release, everyone starts talkin' 'bout Bugsnax	Read review
Luis Alamilla	Luis Alamilla	9 / 10	11-09-2020	Video Review	Read review
Metro GameCentral	Unknown	6 / 10	11-09-2020	An ambitiously odd game that has an innovative take on Pokémon style gameplay and features some of the most intriguing characters of the year – but is rarely as much fun as it should be.	Read review
MonsterVine	Joe Bariso	4 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	A weirdly moving love letter to community and found family hidden inside of a game about cute food bugs. I can’t recommend it enough.	Read review
New Game Network	Josh Hinke	77 / 100	11-16-2020	There may be a lot of games you want to try on the new PS5 console, but if you're looking for a palate cleanser between the bigger, flashier games, Bugsnax is the perfect aperitif to your next-gen feast.	Read review
Nintendo Life	Brett Posner-Ferdman	5 / 10	04-28-2022	Bugsnax is a game that is brimming with potential, but struggles in actual execution. Capturing hundreds of adorable snack-themed creatures sounds like such a great idea, but the lack of memorable characters, a frustrating control scheme, repetitive gameplay and numerous technical and design problems, particularly on Switch, makes for a somewhat lukewarm experience. There is certainly fun to be had here, but once you've played for a few hours, the magic fades and you're left with a disappointing game that doesn't live up to expectations.	Read review
NintendoWorldReport	Neal Ronaghan	8.5 / 10	04-28-2022	This is a wild and weird game that is a welcome addition to the Switch library. There is nothing else out there quite like Bugsnax and while the Switch version is not the best performing version, folks with only the Nintendo console or a desire for portable play shouldn't have too much to complain about if they decide to journey to Snaktooth Island.	Read review
Paste Magazine	Mik Deitz	6 / 10	05-05-2022	If Bugsnax wants us to seriously question our relationship to animals, our food sources, and nature itself, it probably shouldn't turn its equivalent to our livestock into run-of-the-mill videogame bad guys who need to be killed. It shouldn't portray these characters' escape as success. It'd be a far bleaker and more depressing game than anybody ever would've expected from that first trailer if the Grumpuses wound up being punished for their hostility to nature, but if Bugsnax isn't willing to fully engage with these weighty subjects, it shouldn't bring them up in the first place.	Read review
PC Gamer	Tyler Wilde	60 / 100	11-09-2020	It's got well-observed characters and some genuinely weird moments, but the actual bug hunting isn't much fun.	Read review
PC Invasion	Lawrence Le	7 / 10	11-09-2020	In lieu of what many community theories predicted is a cute and casual adventuring experience with an adorkable cast of Grumpuses and Bugsnax. But all that being said, Bugsnax isn't without its tricks.	Read review
PlayStation LifeStyle	Chandler Wood	8 / 10	11-13-2020	Bugsnax is a delight in the most unexpected of ways. Despite its cartoonish and exceptionally goofy exterior, it’s got deep messages of community, relationships, and belonging. Though there are certainly missed opportunities for a bigger gameplay loop around catching the various Bugsnax, everything about Bugsnax is a joy, perhaps the reason that I wanted more from it. It may not be an obvious showcase of the PS5’s power and capabilities, but it’s certainly a unique game that shouldn’t be missed.	Read review
PlayStation Universe	Adam Byrne	8 / 10	11-09-2020	Despite early fanfare very much focusing on Kero Kero Bonito's catchy theme song, and on just how outlandish a game the initial trailer seemed to show it as, the actual fact of the matter is Bugsnax is a real success, a game chockful of charm, wit, and plenty of heart	Read review
Polygon	Charlie Hall	Recommended	11-09-2020	Ultimately, it’s that modern-day Mr. Rogers moralism that saves Bugsnax in the end. I’d happily recommend it to any family, and to any parent looking for a few hours to themselves — either in front of the screen for a bit of casual gameplay, or in the next room while the kids enjoy it all on their own.	Read review
Press Start	Matthew Zimmari	8 / 10	11-10-2020	Whether it's the super-catchy theme song, the nostalgia-evoking gameplay, or simply the very basic fun of hunting new Snax to transform the Grumpuses, Bugsnax is a game that is well worth your time. Its simple yet addictive challenge of catching the cute yet strange creatures coupled with some wholesome storytelling delivers a well-rounded and fun adventure.	Read review
Push Square	Stephen Tailby	7 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a strange concoction of elements that come together for a truly unique adventure. Finding and catching the titular creatures is great fun, but the gameplay is broken up by story beats that belie the game's simple, whimsical style. The mysterious narrative and memorable ensemble cast will keep you interested between hunting for snax, too. Despite loading screens interrupting the flow and a handful of repeated beasties, this curious game is an unusual blend of flavours that works wonderfully.	Read review
Rapid Reviews UK	Squashpickle	4 / 5 stars	11-17-2020	In June, we were first introduced to the world of Snaktooth Island and its strange snack inhabitants. I was immediately fascinated by the distinct charm and oddness to Bugsnax but is the game worth a bite? Find out in this Rapid Review!	Read review
Rock, Paper, Shotgun	Steve Hogarty	Recommended	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a faintly naughty, but never crass adventure that feels simultaneously like a love letter to, and a sharply observed satire of, the games that inspired it.	Read review
Saving Content	Evan Rowe	4 / 5 stars	11-11-2020	Bugsnax may not be the next big thing in creature collection, but it does a great job of bringing something new to the genre and demonstrates a lot of untapped potential therein. More importantly, it instills you with a sense of adventure in a strange new place to explore where any and all of your expectations are subject to defiance at a moment’s notice. The bugsnax themselves are consistently cute punctuation throughout your journey, but the journey of uncovering the mysteries of Snaktooth Island is far and away the real purpose of this game. Bugsnax will surprise you, it will delight you, and it will absolutely, positively burrow its way into your subconscious once you’ve dug in.	Read review
Screen Rant	Zackerie Fairfax	4 / 5 stars	11-11-2020	Bugsnax may not have what it takes to be a chart-topping hit, but it does have the makings of an instant cult classic. Its goofy nature won't be for everyone, but players who take Elizabert Megafig up on her offer will be pleasantly surprised by Bugsnax's interesting gameplay mechanics and loveable characters. If nothing else, one thing is for sure: Bugsnax's ending is bound to surprise anyone who dares brave Snaktooth Island.	Read review
Shacknews	Asif Khan	9 / 10	11-09-2020	There were several times during my playthrough that something happened to work out and I just laughed. Bugsnax is a game that challenges the player while allowing them to play at their own pace. Young Horses has tapped into the essence of what made their first title Octodad so special with this second game, and the result is a truly emotional ending to the story of the century.	Read review
Sirus Gaming	Christian Pepito	9 / 10	12-04-2020	Bugsnax is quite a fun game to play from start to finish. Unlocking the mysteries of Snaktooth Island, looking for missing Grumpuses, and completing quests is not the meat of the game though. It’s in the act of hunting and catching Bugsnax. The characters are quirky and wacky with awesome voice-acting. One full playthrough is a perfect experience already, but I do not feel the need to replay it again in the near future. Despite its small flaws, it is a solid gameplay experience to experience at least once.	Read review
Slant Magazine	Steven Scaife	3 / 5 stars	11-12-2020	The game noticeably stumbles as it attempts to more overtly address the darkness beneath its concept.	Read review
SpazioGames	Unknown	7 / 10	11-23-2020	Bugsnax's story is a step backward for Young Horses, but the gameplay mechanics are a true triumph in terms of brilliance.	Read review
TechRaptor	Dan Rockwood	7 / 10	05-14-2022	The Bugsnax: Isle of Bigsnax DLC adds more of what makes the base Bugsnax game fun, but doesn't add compelling story or character content that makes this a must-play. That being said, fans of Bugsnax will love exploring this new island and solving the puzzles presented by figuring out how to capture the new different giant Bugsnax.	Read review
TheSixthAxis	Nic Bunce	9 / 10	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a unique and wonderful experience, and a must-play for anyone who can get their hands on it. If you're lucky enough to have secured a PS5, make sure you make the most of PlayStation Plus and pick up your free copy while it lasts. If not, this game is still well worth your hard-earned cash.	Read review
TrustedReviews	Jade King	4 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a strange, satisfying and utterly engrossing journey into another world – one that is never afraid to embrace its stranger side even if it means leaving your mouth agape in amazed confusion.	Read review
Twinfinite	Greysun Morales	3.5 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is an odd and wacky experience that’ll be remembered as the black swan of the PS5 launch lineup, in the best way possible. It highlights PlayStation’s commitment to having a diverse catalog of games at the PS5 launch, and with Bugsnax being free on PS Plus for PS5 players at launch, there’s no reason not to try it if you’re a subscriber.	Read review
USgamer	Mathew Olson	4 / 5 stars	11-09-2020	Bugsnax sees Young Horses building on the strange sense of humor it developed with Octodad while embracing some familiar, less adventurous gameplay hooks at its core. I let out an involuntary "aw" when I saw my first Kwookie scuttling across the ground, but the real heart of Bugsnax is its cast of lovable Grumpuses. It has great characters, an entertaining story, and all the Bugsnak catching is just varied enough to keep the experience interesting to its end. All that talk about Bugsnax over the past few months wasn't misguided: it's a flavor-blasted joy.	Read review
VG247	Malindy Hetfeld	Recommended	11-09-2020	Bugsnax is a pleasant little gem of a game, but I don’t think I’ve ever encountered another title that came so close to ruining it all for me so close to the finish line.	Read review
Video Chums	A.J. Maciejewski	7.4 / 10	11-16-2020	In Bugsnax, the bugs are snacks and that's quite cool. Beyond that, its relaxing open-world objective-based gameplay is solid for winding down with after a long day but it doesn't really have much else going for it.	Read review
WayTooManyGames	Todd Eggleston	8 / 10	11-09-2020	There is no reason not to visit this delightful world. Whether you focus on catching every single bugsnax available or mixing it with the mystery, wit, boss fights, charm and an overall system that appeals to adults while accessible to kids, it is a treat. Bugsnax is an excellent entry point to story driven narrative adventures.	Read review
Wccftech	Kai Powell	7.5 / 10	11-09-2020	The hunt for elusive Bugsnax is an interesting tale, requiring the patience of a fisherman and the experience of a Pokemon Snap master. This is one delicious adventure, though it might be an acquired taste for some.	Read review
Windows Central	Miles Dompier	4 / 5 stars	04-28-2022	Bugsnax is a captivating game filled with clever catching mechanics, hilarious creatures, and loads of complex relationships.	Read review

** Learn more about how to become a MetaMeter-approved Critic.

Game Info

Game Description / Storyline:

Bugsnax takes you on a whimsical adventure to Snaktooth Island, home of the legendary half-bug half-snack creatures, Bugsnax. Invited by intrepid explorer Elizabert Megafig, you arrive to discover your host nowhere to be found, her camp in shambles, and her followers scattered across the island alone… and hungry! It’s up to you to solve the mysteries of Snaktooth Island: What happened to Lizbert? What are Bugsnax and where do they come from? But most of all, why do they taste SO GOOD?

RELEASE DATES:

DEVELOPER(S):

PUBLISHER(S):

GENRES:

SERIES/FRANCHISE:

GAME MODES:

GAME ENGINE:

DLC:

BUNDLED IN:

DIRECTOR(S):

PRODUCER(S):

DESIGNER(S):

PROGRAMMER(S):

ARTIST(S):

WRITER(S):

COMPOSER(S):

LINKS:

AGE RATING:

Detailed Information

GAME MODES:

GAME ENGINE:

DLC:

BUNDLED IN:

DIRECTOR(S):

PRODUCER(S):

DESIGNER(S):

PROGRAMMER(S):

ARTIST(S):

WRITER(S):

COMPOSER(S):

Developed by Young Horses. All titles, content, brand names, trademarks, logos, artwork, and associated imagery are trademarks and/or copyright material of their respective owners. © All rights reserved.