Screenshots & trailers
Review sentiment over time
Weekly positive-review rate (green) and review volume (bars). Dashed lines mark significant patches; the amber line is the start of the current scoring window. Hover the dots to see what drove a dip or a jump.
How this score was computed
The VGC Score is a weighted blend on a press-comparable 0-100 quality scale. Steam approval rates are first calibrated (95% positive on Steam ≈ 89.5 quality, since Steam approval skews high). Press and tracked creator reviews each count ~2x a player review and share one cap against player evidence (creator buy/skip calls pool into an approval rate, calibrated like Steam approval); all-time sentiment is capped and halved (it's context, not verdict); reviews of the current build carry the most weight when a fresh patch anchors the window; and a 'typical game' prior keeps small samples from pegging the scale. Because press reviews and Metacritic user aggregates describe the launch build, their weight decays as the game ages (3-year half-life after a 1-year grace). That's how a game that launched rough can outgrow its old reception once updates win players over. Reviews under 2h playtime (the refund window), non-Steam activations, and free copies are downweighted.
| Component | Positive | Quality (0-100) | Weight (pseudo-reviews) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Press reviews (OpenCritic) | – | 72 | 31 |
| All-time Steam reviews | 92% | 86 | 1000 |
| Metacritic user ratings | – | – | 0 |
| Post-patch Steam reviews (trust-weighted) | 96% | 91 | 18 |
| Calibration prior (typical game) | – | 72 | 50 |
Scoring window: last 30 days (no significant patch detected) · 52 reviews sampled · 43 total reviews in window · weighted 14.9 up / 0.7 down · computed 10h ago · full methodology →
Press & Creators reviews (38)
Individual verdicts from outlets we track: scored reviews first, most trusted outlets first among them. The small badge is each outlet's trust score: how well its scoring history aligns with players.
- 70
“A Juggler's Tale is a polished title, delivering a smooth gameplay flow that's over too quickly for its launch price. Anyone can appreciate the visual presentation and voiced story. Meanwhile, enthusiasts will enjoy the blend of puzzles (albeit easy ones) and action. It's a unique game in many ways and one that leaves an impression. But, it also leaves you wanting more. I hope to cheer on Abby in a sequel, one whose price better matches its length.”
read full review ↗ - 60
“At just two - three hours in length, A Juggler’s Tale is a lean experience with little fat on the bones (though may still be a tad on the short side for some). Nevertheless, it’s a shame that the developer leant on the same type of puzzle for much of the game, as it makes certain areas feel repetitive as a result. If you’re a fan of games like Limbo and Inside, this is a nice alternative; just don’t go expecting a game of the same calibre or quality.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“A Juggler’s Tale is the new project by kaleidoscube: a small German studio that transports us to the unfortunate life of the puppet Abby”
read full review ↗ - 70
“Other than length I have very few real criticisms of A Jugglers Tale; Kaleidoscube have knocked it out of the park. What they’ve made is a very tight experience which is both harsh and beautiful, I just wish there was more of it.”
read full review ↗ - 81
“With its marionette characters and associated string-based challenges, rhyming narration, and a healthy dose of charm A Juggler's Tale is certainly unique...”
read full review ↗ - 75
“A Juggler's Tale drops the ball some with its design, but puts on a worthwhile show due to its presentation and story.”
read full review ↗ - 60
“If it all proves too much, at least many of the vistas and scenes will soothe your mood with lovely visuals, especially as the sun sets. They don't quite look photo-realistic; there's a dash of flair and care that makes for a very pretty little title. It won't set the world on fire, but A Juggler's Tale has a pleasing aura that may resonate with folk who know what they're getting themselves in for.”
read full review ↗ - 85
“The only real issue I experienced were some readability problems when it came to figuring out what certain puzzles expected of me, but I was always able to figure it out on my own in the end. A playthrough goes quickly, only lasting around two to three hours, so it doesn't overstay its welcome nor does it feel too brief. If you enjoy a good puzzle platformer, A Juggler's Tale is a worthy addition to your collection, no strings required.”
read full review ↗ - 85
“A Juggler’s Tale is a joy to play from start to finish. Gorgeous visuals, fun gameplay with puzzles that don’t frustrate and a narrative that plays out uniquely through the lens of the storyteller. If you enjoyed games like Limbo, Little Nightmares and others of a similar ilk, this is definitely one to add to your collection.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“A Juggler’s Tale isn’t a long game, it will only take you a few hours to complete. However, its length is refreshing in a time where we are surrounded by massive open-world games that can leave us exhausted just by looking at their playtime... this puppet’s tale will make you realise that strength comes in all sizes, even in the shape of a little marionette whose only real talent is juggling.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“A Juggler’s Tale is a short but very sweet atmospheric 3D puzzle side scroller. With a unique dynamic of controlling a marionette, puzzles become more thoughtful. The game is visually stunning and has a wonderful gaming experience. Intense at times with a wicked twist, the only downside is it’s short run time. Easily recommended to fans of Little Nightmares, or Puzzle side scrollers in general.”
read full review ↗ - 70
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Patch history
- Patchnotes 1.16Oct 11, 2021
- Patchnotes 1.15Oct 5, 2021
- Patchnotes 1.15Oct 5, 2021
- Patchnotes 1.14Oct 1, 2021
- fixed minor bugs (v.1.13):Sep 30, 2021