Bramble: The Mountain King Xbox Series X Review
| Game: | Bramble: The Mountain King |
|---|---|
| Publisher: | Merge Games |
| Developer: |
Prior to my discovery, Bramble: The Mountain King had remained under my radar, and I hadn’t really heard much about it. However, its striking visuals and intriguing premise caught my attention, prompting me to embark on a playthrough. As I delved deeper into the game’s world, I found myself enthralled by its many twisted and unforgettable moments. This hidden gem, with its unique style and memorable gameplay, turned out to be a delightful surprise, and I believe it’s a game worth exploring for anyone seeking an enjoyable horror adventure.
Set in a world inspired by Nordic folklore, Bramble: The Mountain King introduces Olle, a brave young boy at the heart of an emotional quest to find his missing sister. In terms of storytelling, a blend of in-game narration and hidden books gradually reveals the tale of the characters and their twisted world. With its unsettling imagery, the game delivers a haunting experience, leaving a lasting impression.
Bramble’s presentation is stellar, with its fixed cinematic cameras and gorgeous visual design. The fixed camera views often add a touch of unease, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the game. Furthermore, the subtle and muted colours further immerse you into this disturbing world. While minor frame-rate issues may occasionally arise, they don’t overshadow the game’s appealing aesthetic.
Bramble showcases a pleasing diversity in its gameplay mechanics, presenting adventure, stealth, and action elements. While the game introduces you to an imaginative world, it’s worth noting that the gameplay maintains a linear trajectory throughout the 5-6 hour adventure. Collectibles are thoughtfully placed within close proximity to your current path, ensuring easy accessibility. Additionally, the game features only a handful of puzzles, which might leave some wanting more, while the platforming can fill overly floaty at times. However, the joy of traversing the visually stunning world remains a highlight. Evidently, the developer’s intent was to maintain a fluid narrative with minimal interruptions, allowing you to experience the story without significant pauses.
Undoubtedly, a standout feature within the game lies in its twisted boss battles, each boasting an eccentric and unsettling design. Engaging these foes requires Olle’s adept utilization of a mystical light sphere, demanding strategic timing for well-timed strikes. These memorable encounters not only resonate long after the game ends but also contribute to some of its most haunting and unforgettable moments. Delving deeper into their specifics would risk spoiling the impact they have on the overall experience.
In summary, Bramble: The Mountain King deftly combines a variety of gameplay styles, imaginative world-building, and memorable boss encounters. Although the linear nature of the game’s progression and the absence of elaborate puzzles might leave some longing for greater complexity, the strategic placement of collectibles and the game’s consistent flow maintain an engaging adventure. The disquieting visual design and eerie ambiance contribute to a heightened sense of immersion, enriching the overall experience. While the enjoyable narrative might be simple, the meticulously crafted moments within Bramble: The Mountain King offer a memorable and haunting journey that may linger in the mind long after the final credits roll.
