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As with movies, when a sequel to a game is about to be launched, fans have mixed feelings. They wouldn’t want their experience to be embittered if they loved the last one. Similarly, in games too. But fans have no such clinging to the past for Gundam Breaker 4, particularly because the last one, ‘New Gundam Breaker’, was unanimously hated, so it’s almost certain this one’s going to fare better. As of writing this, we are days before the launch, and the open network testing has shown good feedback for the game, so there is reason to be excited. Till the time you get your hands on it, build up some anticipation as I list out all you can expect from the game.
- For the first time, you’ll be able to play the game on Nintendo Switch, alongside the usual options like PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC via Steam.
- This time, you’re getting an action game packed with hack-and-slash and looter elements. If you remember how New Gundam Breaker faced criticism for its poor player-versus-player combat, you’ll be glad to know that Gundam Breaker 4 returns to player-versus-environment combat. It’s not just mindless button mashing; you’ll need to plan strategically to make progress.
- You can choose to play solo in single-player mode or team up with two others in cooperative multiplayer. Whether you’re tackling the story mode alone or with friends, multiplayer offers team-based missions and the chance to share parts with your squad.
- If you’re part of the Gundam subculture, you’ll love that the game goes back to basics and focuses on what matters most to true fans: smashing up AI-controlled mobile suits to create new and bizarre designs of your own. With over 250 base Gunpla kits available to buy on PS5 for Gundam Breaker 4, the scope for customization is immense. You can change the size, position, and angle of body parts. Paint, decals, and weathering effects let you personalize your designs even more. Be prepared to create outlandish Gunpla models that were never possible in the real world.
- Another interesting feature is the new diorama mode. You can pose your models in various scenes, creating detailed environments using different backgrounds and elements. You’ll be able to share your dioramas online, so if you enjoy the aesthetic and creative aspects of Gunpla beyond just the combat gameplay, this mode is perfect for you.
- When it comes to the storyline, Gundam Breaker 4 returns to the core gameplay loop that made GB2 and GB3 popular, but it goes beyond and expands the formula. The game is set in a new version of the Gunpla Battle Simulator called GB4 (GUNPLA Battle Blaze: Beyond Borders). You’ll find that it builds on what made the earlier games great while introducing fresh elements to keep you engaged.
- Key characters you’ll meet include:
- Your customizable protagonist: This is your character, and you’ll be able to mold them to your liking.
- Tao: An SD Gundam enthusiast with deep Gunpla knowledge but little battle experience. Expect him to bring some fun dynamics as he learns the ropes.
- Lin: A competitive newcomer who’s shaping up to be your rival, much like characters from past games.
- Reco: The AI news announcer is filling a role similar to the virtual idols from previous games.
- Mister Gunpla: The MC for events, to provide colourful commentary during battles to keep things lively.
- Misa: A familiar face returning from GB3, previously part of the Ayato Shopping District team.
- As for the gameplay, developers have introduced a dual-wielding system, which is new for Gundam Breaker gamers. This means you can use two one-handed weapons simultaneously, so start planning your tactics. Imagine mixing a beam saber with a machine gun for some unique combo attacks. Maybe you’ll want to keep a short-range weapon in one hand and a long-range one in the other? Another new feature is the ability to target specific parts of enemy Gunpla, like their legs, arms, or weapons. You can then equip those parts to your Gunpla or use them to upgrade your current setup. This adds a satisfying layer of battle, collection, and customization to the game.