Gundam Breaker 4: A Deep Dive Review Across Platforms
Back in 2016, the Gundam Breaker series was a niche import title. Now, Gundam Breaker 4 boasts a simultaneous global release on Steam, Switch, PS4, and PS5, marking a significant milestone for Western fans. After 60 hours across multiple platforms, I can confidently say it's a fantastic game, though not without a few minor flaws.
This release is monumental. No more importing! Gundam Breaker 4 offers dual audio (English and Japanese) and multiple subtitle options (English, French, Italian, German, Spanish), a stark contrast to the Asia English-only release of Gundam Breaker 3.
The Story: While the narrative has its highs and lows (lengthy pre-mission dialogue in some parts, compelling character reveals later on), it effectively introduces newcomers to the series. The main characters are endearing, though my personal favorites appear later in the game. The early chapters feel somewhat straightforward.
The Real Star: The story takes a backseat to the core gameplay loop: building, customizing, and battling with your Gunpla. The customization is exceptional. You can adjust individual parts, weapons (including dual-wielding), and even scale parts, allowing for truly unique creations, including blending SD (super deformed) parts with standard ones. Builder parts add further customization options and skills. EX and OP skills, along with ability cartridges, provide strategic combat depth.
Progression and Upgrades: Missions reward parts and materials for upgrading and increasing part rarity. A recommended part level system guides progression, but the game is well-balanced, minimizing the need for grinding on normal difficulty. Higher difficulties unlock later, significantly increasing the challenge. Optional quests, including a fun survival mode, provide extra rewards and variety. The ability to upgrade and re-purpose older parts adds a satisfying layer of resource management.
Beyond Combat: Customization extends to paint jobs, decals, and weathering effects. The sheer depth of customization is impressive and caters perfectly to Gunpla enthusiasts.
Gameplay: The combat is engaging and varied, even on normal difficulty. The diverse weapon types and skills keep things fresh. Boss fights are satisfying, involving weak point targeting and strategic combat. One specific boss fight proved challenging due to AI behavior, but this was an exception.
Visuals and Audio: The visuals are a mixed bag. Environments are somewhat lacking early on, but the Gunpla models and animations are stunning. The art style is vibrant and well-suited to the game. The music is forgettable in parts, but some tracks stand out. The lack of anime music DLC is a slight disappointment. The voice acting, however, is excellent in both English and Japanese.
Bugs and Issues: Minor bugs were encountered, including a few Steam Deck-specific issues (long load times returning to the title screen, and a mission crash). These seem isolated incidents.
Online Multiplayer: Online multiplayer functionality was partially tested on PS5 and Switch. PC server testing was unavailable pre-launch. A full online review will follow once servers are live and tested thoroughly.
Platform Differences:
- PC: Supports above 60fps, mouse and keyboard, and multiple controller options. Excellent Steam Deck performance.
- PS5: Capped at 60fps, looks amazing.
- Switch: Runs around 30fps, with noticeable downgrades in resolution, detail, and reflections. Assembly and diorama modes feel sluggish.
DLC: The Deluxe and Ultimate Editions offer additional Gunpla parts and diorama content. The early unlockable parts aren't game-changing, but the builder parts are helpful. The diorama mode is a highlight, enhanced by the DLC additions.
Final Verdict:
Gundam Breaker 4 is a fantastic game, especially for Gunpla enthusiasts. While the story is enjoyable, the core gameplay loop of building, customizing, and battling is where the game truly shines. The PC version, particularly on Steam Deck, offers a superb experience. The Switch version is playable but suffers from performance issues, especially in the assembly section. The PS5 version is visually stunning but capped at 60fps. The Ultimate Edition offers worthwhile additional content.
Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck Review: 4.5/5
