"Worth every MS Point!"

This game has an excellent mix of puzzle, strategy, story, and hidden secrets! Far above and beyond all other Xbox Live Arcade games, this story really draws you in making you want to know what the HECK is going on!

At fist glance Braid looks like just another platform adventure. That is a lie! While braid is a platform adventure type game, it is so much more than anything you have ever played. In fact, many hours will be spent wondering how to move on, and when you're done moving on you'll come back to realize there was something else you could have done!

When you start the game you are brought into a world that is truly like nothing else. Braid gives you a sense of being fully involved with that world by allowing you to read into the story while keeping you detached while playing through the levels. The intrigue level stays remarkably high even when you can't quite seem to figure out what is going on. Then, when you finally do figure it out, the whole story can change in the blink of an eye!

The game consists of six levels (Worlds) that you play through. The opening to each World allows you to invest time in the story. There are books containing story elements before you reach the doors that open up to each level. In most doors in each World there are Puzzle pieces scattered throughout that you can put together back in the house (sort of the World Hub) to create giant Puzzles. Completing the Puzzles and Worlds unlocks achievements and allows for advancement in the storyline.

The game relies on your understanding of time manipulation. Moving time forward, backward, and in some cases maintaining one state while time around you moves. Most methods are "taught" during the game by the inclusion of a few "tutorial" levels. I use the words "taught" and "tutorial" lightly because you learn these new methods by actually playing through another level.

There are few boss fights, each requiring a different amount of skill and ingenuity to defeat.

I would recommend this for all gamers teenage and up, though I will say it is best to play with a friend by your side to help you work out some of the difficult puzzles.

There has been a lot of discussion as to whether this game was worth the cost. Personally, I don't think it's valued high enough! Play this game! You won't be sorry!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 08/18/08

Game Release: Braid (US, 08/06/08)