Gundam Breaker 4 Launches on Multiple Platforms

Gundam Breaker 4: A Deep Dive Review Across Platforms

Back in 2016, the Gundam Breaker series was a niche import for PS Vita enthusiasts. The announcement of a global, multi-platform release for Gundam Breaker 4 in 2024 was a huge surprise, and after 60 hours across various platforms, I can say it's largely a success, though with some caveats.

This release is significant for its accessibility. No more importing Asian English releases! Gundam Breaker 4 boasts dual audio (English and Japanese) and multiple subtitle options, a significant leap for the series in the West. But how does the game itself fare across platforms?

The story, while serviceable, ranges from slightly tedious pre-mission dialogue to engaging character reveals and dialogue in the later stages. Newcomers will be brought up to speed, though the impact of certain character appearances might be lost without prior experience. The narrative is straightforward in the early chapters, but the main characters grow on you, with my personal favorites appearing later.

However, the core appeal lies in the unparalleled Gunpla customization. You can adjust individual parts, weapons (including dual-wielding), and even the scale of parts, allowing for truly unique creations, including the bizarre integration of SD parts onto standard Gunpla.

Beyond basic parts, builder parts add further customization options, some with unique skills. Combat utilizes EX and OP skills based on your equipped parts and weapons, further enhanced by ability cartridges with various buffs and debuffs.

Missions reward parts and materials for upgrading and increasing part rarity, unlocking more skills and allowing for strategic part cannibalization. The game's difficulty is well-balanced; grinding isn't necessary on standard difficulty, but three higher difficulties unlock later, increasing the challenge. Optional quests offer additional rewards and fun modes like survival.

Painting, decal application, and weathering effects add further depth to customization. Gundam Breaker 4 is a dream for Gunpla enthusiasts, but the gameplay itself also shines.

Combat is consistently engaging, even on normal difficulty, thanks to varied weapons and skills. Boss fights involve targeting weak points and overcoming various obstacles. While most are straightforward, one specific boss fight proved challenging due to AI behavior.

Visually, the game is a mixed bag. Early environments are somewhat lacking, but the Gunpla models and animations are excellent. The art style is stylized rather than realistic, and the effects are impressive. The game scales well on lower-end hardware.

The music is a mixed bag, with some forgettable tracks and some standout pieces. The absence of music from the anime and movies, and the lack of custom music options, is disappointing.

Voice acting, however, is a pleasant surprise. Both English and Japanese voiceovers are well-done, with a personal preference for English during action-heavy moments.

Minor issues include one repetitive mission type and a few bugs. Newcomers might find the gameplay repetitive if they dislike grinding for better gear. I encountered a few minor bugs, including save issues and some Steam Deck-specific problems (long title screen loading and a mission crash).

Online multiplayer functionality was tested on PS5 and Switch pre-release, but PC online testing is pending.

My personal Gunpla-building journey alongside the game's playthrough is detailed, highlighting the appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in these kits.

Platform Differences:

• PC: Supports over 60fps, mouse and keyboard, and multiple controller options. Runs well on Steam Deck, achieving 60fps+ at medium settings. Minor font issues were noted.

• PS5: Capped at 60fps, looks excellent, and features good rumble and Activity Card support.

• Switch: Runs around 30fps, with downgraded resolution, detail, and reflections. Assembly and diorama modes feel sluggish.

DLC: The Deluxe and Ultimate Editions offer early unlocks and diorama content. The early unlocks aren't game-changing, but the diorama additions are valuable for photo mode enthusiasts.

Overall: Gundam Breaker 4 is a fantastic entry in the series. While the story is enjoyable, the customization, combat, and Gunpla building are the true stars. The PC version is recommended for its performance and flexibility, especially on Steam Deck. The PS5 version offers excellent visuals and performance, while the Switch version is acceptable but hampered by performance issues. The Ultimate Edition offers worthwhile additions for fans of the diorama mode.

Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck Review: 4.5/5