Gundam Breaker 4: Optimized for SEO Dominance

Gundam Breaker 4: A Deep Dive Review Across Platforms, Including Steam Deck Performance

Back in early 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 significant surprise for fans. Having logged 60 hours across various platforms, I can confidently say Gundam Breaker 4 is a fantastic game, though not without a few minor flaws.

This release is monumental, marking a significant leap for Western accessibility. No more importing Asia English releases! Gundam Breaker 4 boasts dual audio (English and Japanese) and multiple subtitle options (English, French, Italian, German, Spanish), a feature rarely seen in previous Gundam titles. This review will cover the game's core aspects and compare the various platform versions, culminating in my personal journey into Master Grade Gunpla building.

The narrative offers a blend of highs and lows. While some pre-mission dialogue feels protracted, the latter half delivers compelling character reveals and more engaging conversations. Newcomers will be brought up to speed, though the significance of certain characters might be initially unclear. The story, limited to the first two chapters for this review, initially feels straightforward, but I grew to appreciate the main characters by the end, particularly two favorites who appear later.

However, the true allure lies in Gunpla customization. The depth is astonishing. Individual part adjustments (arms, ranged/melee weapons) and scaling options allow for truly unique creations, even incorporating SD (super deformed) parts for bizarre, Frankenstein-esque results.

Beyond basic part customization, builder parts add further layers of personalization, some with unique skills. Combat utilizes EX and OP skills dependent on parts and weapons, complemented by ability cartridges offering buffs/debuffs.

Missions reward parts, materials for leveling up, and materials to increase part rarity, unlocking additional skills. The game's difficulty is well-balanced; grinding isn't necessary on standard difficulty. Three higher difficulties unlock later, increasing the challenge significantly. Optional quests provide additional income and parts, with some, like survival mode, being particularly enjoyable.

Customization extends to paint jobs, decals, and weathering effects. The sheer amount of content is impressive.

Gameplay is largely excellent. Combat remains engaging, even on easier difficulties, encouraging experimentation with various weapon types. Boss fights involve targeting weak points and managing multiple health bars, with one notable exception where AI presented a challenge. The visual style, while not photorealistic, is effective and scales well on lower-end hardware. Effects are impressive, and boss fight scale is noteworthy.

The soundtrack is a mixed bag, with some forgettable tracks and a few standouts. The lack of music from the anime/movies, a common feature in previous installments, is disappointing. Custom music loading, present in other Gundam games, is absent.

Voice acting is surprisingly good in both English and Japanese, with a personal preference for English during action sequences.

Minor issues include a repetitive mission type and a few bugs (one impacting name saving, others possibly Steam Deck-specific). The online component remains untested on PC at the time of this writing.

My parallel Gunpla building project (RG 78-2 MG 3.0) highlighted the intricate detail involved in kit design.

Platform Differences:

• PC: Supports above 60fps, mouse/keyboard, and controller input with customizable button prompts. Runs exceptionally well on Steam Deck, achieving 60fps+ with adjusted settings.

• PS5: Capped at 60fps, visually superior to Switch, with good rumble and Activity Card support.

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

DLC: The Deluxe/Ultimate Editions offer additional parts and diorama content, though the value proposition requires further assessment.

Overall: Gundam Breaker 4 is a spectacular entry, excelling in customization and gameplay. While the story is enjoyable, it's secondary to the core mechanics. The Steam Deck version is particularly impressive.

Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck Review: 4.5/5