If you had to buy one XBLA game, this would be it.
Personally, I was skeptical of Braid at first. But after playing through the game I discovered that this game has had a quite long-lasting impact on me, making it one of the best Xbox Live Arcade Games I’ve ever played.
Obviously, the main ability used throughout the game is the ability to reverse time. Throughout the game, you must use this ability in order to solve puzzles and obtain puzzle pieces. These are used to construct paintings of each world the player goes to, and once all of them are completed the last world (or should I say, first) is unlocked.
The best part is that there is no repetition at all. Each puzzle is solved in its own unique way. Moreover, in each subsequent world the player arrives in, a new mechanic is added to the game allowing for more complex puzzles (such as objects with green auras. They are not effected by time travel). In effect, this allows the game to never make the player repeat older strategies. The game’s shorter length also attests to lack of repetition. Braid is very much akin to Portal, whereas a shorter gameplay time is used to give the player a condensed experience that will be easily remembered.
The artistic style of the game is very atmospheric and is easy to lose yourself in. It also has some quirky ideas within it, like the rabbits that sound like cats. There are several homages to Mario games, which are a nice touch, considering the game is a platformer first and foremost. The music is also very relaxing.
The story is also very complex and interpretative. This can be a mixed-bag; some would like it, others don’t. Personally, I did not care much for the story. But the fact that it is there (and the fact that you can easily skip it in it’s entirety) is a plus.
The game can get frustratingly difficult, but as someone who did not use a walkthrough, I suggest you do the same. It is very rewarding at the end.
Spending your $15 is worth it. It is expensive for an Xbox Live Arcade title, but considering it is more compelling than all of the other games available it is definitely worth a purchase.
