The Drifter
Released: 7/17/2025
Score Breakdown
85.0
Critic Average
15 reviews
98
Steam User Score
3,703 reviews
81
Metacritic User Score
43 reviews
Disparity Breakdown
85 vs 98
85 vs 81
Average of both sources
Review Disparities
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
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
8/10/2025
Launch Window“Adventure game fans should absolutely not miss what The Drifter has to offer.”
80
80/100
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
