Game Review - Braid

Braid is special, Braid is a true gem.

Braid is one of those games that comes out with no hype or no expectation and blows everyone away. Released on Xbox Live Arcade and Windows, Braid is a platform come puzzle game which follows the story of Tim, a young man who is searching for his princess. I do not want to reveal anymore of the story because for one, it is very philosophical and complex (or vague) and also I do not want want to ruin anything for someone who has not played the game. The game is split into 6 main levels and a final level after the game has been fully completed. You must collect puzzle pieces and construct images that tell parts of the story. It is fantastically simple and works perfectly.

The game play of Braid is a side scrolling platformer where it is impossible to die due to the ability to rewind time (much like 'The Sands of Time'). The difficulty comes from trying to capture all of the pieces and some of them are very hard to work out. The game has a charming soundtrack which fits the story perfectly, told via short passages read before each different level.

My only criticism of Braid is that for some people it will be too philosophical, trying to be too serious for how it is presented. I believe this should be welcomed and applauded as an independent developer (Johnathon Blow) has created a masterpiece.

I think the pricing of Live Arcade games is way too high and Braid falls under the 1,200 point mark (about £9-10) but I believe it is the only game which justifies the high price.

Braid
released 6th August 2008

9.0/10

Achievements:
Braid has simple achievements that make up 185/200 points, basically just 100% the game. The final 15G achievements requires a 45 minute speed run, which is rather difficult - good luck!