Gundam Breaker 4 Impresses on Steam Deck, Switch, PS5

Gundam Breaker 4: A Deep Dive Review – From PS Vita Imports to Steam Deck Domination

Back in 2016, the Gundam Breaker series was a niche find for PS Vita enthusiasts. These action RPGs, blending hack-and-slash combat with extensive Gunpla customization, quickly captured my attention. The Asia English release of Gundam Breaker 3 on PS4 and PS Vita marked my entry into the franchise, and I haven't looked back. Now, with Gundam Breaker 4 launching globally on Steam, Switch, PS4, and PS5, the series has truly arrived. After 60+ hours across multiple platforms, I can confidently say Gundam Breaker 4 is a triumph, though not without a few minor hiccups.

This release is significant not just for the game itself, but for the series' Western expansion. No more importing! Gundam Breaker 4 boasts dual audio (English and Japanese) and multiple subtitle options (EFIGS and more), a stark contrast to the past. This review will cover the game's core mechanics, story, and performance across different platforms, culminating in my Master Grade Gunpla building experience.

The narrative is a mixed bag. While initial dialogue can feel protracted, the latter half delivers compelling character reveals and more engaging conversations. Newcomers will easily catch up, though the significance of certain characters might be lost without prior experience. (Embargo restrictions prevent detailed story discussion beyond the first two chapters.) Despite a somewhat straightforward start, I found myself genuinely invested in the main characters by the end, though my personal favorites emerge later.

However, the story isn't the star. Gundam Breaker 4's true allure lies in its unparalleled Gunpla customization. The depth is astonishing. You can fine-tune individual parts (arms, legs, weapons), adjust weapon types per arm, experiment with dual wielding, and even modify part size and scale. Mix and match parts – even using SD (super deformed) elements – to create truly unique, Frankensteinian masterpieces.

Beyond the standard parts, Builder Parts add extra layers of customization, some even with unique skills. Combat utilizes EX and OP skills determined by your equipped parts and weapons, further enhanced by ability cartridges offering buffs and debuffs.

Missions reward parts and materials, crucial for leveling up and increasing part rarity. Each mission suggests a recommended part level, offering a helpful guide. Upgrading rarity unlocks additional skills, allowing you to strategically utilize older parts.

While optional quests provide extra income and parts, the main story remains well-balanced, minimizing the need for grinding on normal difficulty. Three higher difficulty levels unlock as you progress, significantly increasing the challenge and recommended part levels. However, don't overlook optional quests entirely; some, like survival mode, are genuinely enjoyable.

Customization extends to paint schemes (unlocked through progression or DLC), decals, and weathering effects. The sheer amount of content is impressive, making it a dream for Gunpla enthusiasts.

Gameplay excels. Combat remains engaging throughout, even on normal difficulty. I constantly experimented with weapons before settling on a greatsword. The diverse skills and stats maintain a fresh feel.

Boss fights are thrilling, with the spectacle of Gunpla emerging from their boxes never losing its charm. Targeting weak points, managing health bars and shields remains the core strategy. I only encountered significant difficulty with one boss fight involving two enemies simultaneously. The AI proved challenging in this specific instance.

Visually, the game is a blend of excellent and adequate. Early environments feel somewhat sparse, but overall variety is good. The focus is clearly on Gunpla and animations, resulting in stunning visuals. The art style isn't realistic; expect a stylized aesthetic that performs well on lower-end hardware.

Music is a mixed bag: some tracks are forgettable, while others shine in specific story missions. The lack of anime music is disappointing, especially considering past DLC practices. Custom music import, a feature in other Gundam titles, is also absent.

Voice acting, however, is a pleasant surprise. Both English and Japanese voice tracks are high-quality; I preferred English during action sequences to avoid reading subtitles.

Minor issues include one repetitive mission type and a few bugs (one impacting name saving, and two potentially Steam Deck-specific). The game's length and focus on replaying missions for better gear may deter players averse to grinding.

Online play (tested pre-release on PS5 and Switch) functioned well, though PC server testing awaits. I will update this review once PC online is accessible.

My parallel Master Grade Gunpla build (RG 78-2 MG 3.0) provided a unique perspective, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in these kits. I'll complete this build post-embargo.

Platform Differences:

• PC: Supports over 60fps, mouse and keyboard, and multiple controller profiles. Steam Deck performance is excellent, achieving 60fps+ easily with medium settings.
• PS5: Capped at 60fps, visually stunning, and includes PS5 Activity Card support.
• Switch: Runs around 30fps, with noticeable downgrades in resolution, detail, and reflections. Assembly and diorama modes feel sluggish.

DLC: The Ultimate Edition's DLC offers additional parts and diorama content, but isn't game-changing.

Conclusion:

Gundam Breaker 4 is a fantastic entry in the series. While the story is enjoyable, the game truly shines in its deep customization and engaging gameplay. The PC version, particularly on Steam Deck, provides a superb experience. Choose your platform wisely, considering the performance differences, especially on Switch. For Gunpla enthusiasts, this is a must-have.

Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck Review: 4.5/5