Jonathan Blow’s xbox live arcade indie hit Braid has finally been released on the PC and I have got my hands(well not literally since it’s a digital download version) on it. You can purchase Braid currently on Steam, Gamersgate, Impulse, or Greenhouse for USD$14.99. Lets just get one thing out of the way, Braid is awesome!
Braid is a 2D puzzle game that takes the shape of a platformer. It incorporates a time manipulation mechanic to devise devious puzzles that are mind bending and will drive you mad at times. Braid has many reference to Super Mario Bros from the Goomba like enemies to the end of level flag pole and princess saving goal of the game. Each level carries a piece of a jigsaw puzzle that you collect to give you some insight into the story. The game never really forces you to get these pieces, you can rush through the levels to reach the ‘end’ level.
There are 6 worlds with many levels in each world. Each world has its own ruleset that changes how you manipulate time. For instance in one world, moving to the right moves time forward and moving to the left moves time backwards. By learning the rules of the different worlds and observing the objects you can manipulate by rewinding time in a level, solving a puzzle often involves a clever use of the rules of the world and objects in the level.
What makes Braid a fascinating experience is the way the narrative is weaved into the game. The gameplay mechanics of time manipulation and the princess are all allegories to Tim’s(the character in the game) battles with his conscience. There are quite a bit of text to read but they always have a deeper meaning and Braid’s story feels awfully personal.
Despite it simplistic(yet beautiful) art style and simplicity(gameplay mechanics), Braid has a plot that I feel many will be able to emphathise with. It has a stronger emotional impact compared to many fancy graphics triple A games. Jonathan Blow weaves a realistic tale in the form of a fairy tale video game. Some aspects seem like its obvious and some others seem a lot more open to interpretation. I won’t spoil the story but it’s something everyone should play to figure it out and there is an interesting twist in it.
Braid looks beautiful like a painting that has come to life. Art is done by Daniel Hellman and it plays along with the poignant story of the protagonist. Braid is an experience not to be missed. It is a gaming landmark in terms how the narrative and simplistic gameplay mechanics can mix together. The perfect union of narrative and gameplay. It doesn’t last very long but it is a game everyone should play.
The Good
- Fascinating story
- Challenging puzzles that are not unfair and do not require amazing platforming reflexes
- Great art style
- Priced at only USD$14.99
The Bad
- It’s short(but good)
- Not much replay value
Rating : 4/5
Demo link here
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