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The Drifter

Released: 7/17/2025

Critics
85
vs
Users
98

Score Breakdown

85.0

Critic Average

15 reviews

98

Steam User Score

3,703 reviews

81

Metacritic User Score

43 reviews

Disparity Breakdown

Steam Disparity
-12.7

85 vs 98

Metacritic Disparity
+4.0

85 vs 81

Combined Disparity
-4.4

Average of both sources

Review Disparities

Positive = critic higher than usersNegative = critic lower than users

Each point represents a critic review. Hover for details. Positive = critic higher than users. Negative = critic lower.

1/29/2026

Late Review

The Drifter is an outstanding graphic adventure that is finally available in Spanish. Death as a narrative mechanic works well, the puzzles are logical and accessible, and the science fiction story with hints of thriller and drama is captivating from start to finish. Highly recommended for any lover of point-and-click games and good stories.

80

80/100

Read

8/15/2025

Launch Window

The Drifter is part of a class of modern classics for point and clicks, joining 2025's other great adventure game, Old Skies, in both honoring and advancing the genre. With a compelling, tension-filled narrative and a cinematic presentation style, it becomes one of my easiest recommendations — not only as one of the best games this year but as an all-time point and click must-play.

90

90/100

Read

8/10/2025

Launch Window

Adventure game fans should absolutely not miss what The Drifter has to offer.

80

80/100

Read

8/5/2025

Launch Window

I was optimistic about The Drifter just from seeing the trailer, but I was unprepared for just how remarkable the game truly is. From gorgeous pixel art, to fantastic vocal performances, to a truly bonkers and melancholy storyline, The Drifter is one of the most memorable and unique experiences I’ve had in a point-and-click adventure in a long time. If you’re a fan of the genre, The Drifter is undeniably a must-play.

90

90/100

Read

8/3/2025

Launch Window

Exciting and good-looking wild science fiction in the shape of a classic quest that doesn't look archaic.

80

80/100

Read

7/22/2025

Launch Window

In summary, The Drifter offers accessible yet not simplistic gameplay, where every interaction serves to heighten the atmosphere and support the narrative. It stands as proof that, in an era when graphic adventures seemed destined to remain a nostalgic memory, titles like this one mark a vibrant revival of the genre, especially within the indie scene. The protagonist is a tormented man, closed off from the world, a prisoner of his own ghosts and haunting regrets. He is portrayed with remarkable depth: hopeless, crushed by past mistakes, and reluctantly forced to start over. It’s a surprisingly intimate portrayal for a graphic adventure that is just as surprising, beautiful, and absolutely unmissable.

85

85/100

Read

7/18/2025

Launch Window

The Drifter has everything you want from a modern point-and-click adventure – a banging story, excellent characters that are unabashedly Australian, and expertly designed puzzles. It's one of the best adventure games you'll ever play and it feels like an evolution for the genre, and Powerhoof deserves all the acclaim about to come its way.

95

95/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

Powerhoof deliver one of the most engaging and compelling tales you're likely to experience this year. Joining Mick on his journey filled with emotional stakes, peril and thematic intrigue is a pleasure, and one I'd encourage you to embark on for yourself. Aside from the occasional technical issue, The Drifter is a wonderfully crafted noir point-and-click adventure from start to finish.

90

90/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

Deserving of a place in the point and click hall of fame, The Drifter is a pulpy thriller with fantastic storytelling, excellent puzzles and truly stand-out voice acting. Undoubtedly one of the highlights of 2025, make sure this is on your radar if you're a fan of adventure games with unforgettable narratives.

100

100/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

What stumbles there are, though, do little to loosen The Drifter’s sturdy grasp of the genre. With a steady stream of plot twists and storytelling intrigue, the game is a propulsive and polished example of the form, every bit the satisfying pulp adventure it sets out to be.

70

70/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

The Drifter is an excellent adventure game with a fantastic story, excellent sound, and lovely pixel art, though sadly drags a bit here and there.

80

80/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

A brutal, lightning-paced take on the point-and-click adventure, The Drifter stands confidently among the greats of Australian horror fiction. Building a uniquely unsettling atmosphere with its chilling prose and narration, it presents a compelling supernatural mystery that will satisfy any adventure game fan. With gorgeous pixel art, killer voice acting, a soundtrack full of bangers, and an engaging gameplay loop, The Drifter is a home-grown triumph.

90

90/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

If concepts like Stephen King, John Carpenter, and low-budget 80s horror films hold a special place in your life, you’ll absolutely love The Drifter.

80

80/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

The Drifter is a gorgeous and moody point 'n' click adventure with impeccable art, but its pulp leanings undermine its best qualities.

70

70/100

Read

7/17/2025

Launch Window

The Drifter is a well-written, fast-paced point-and-click thriller that will keep you glued to your seat. It's a must-play for those who love puzzlers, mystery, and adventure.

95

95/100

Read