Braid

 PC
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1013 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 830 out of 1013
  2. Mixed: 129 out of 1013
  3. Negative: 54 out of 1013
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  1. Jwv
    Jan 9, 2014
    9
    Beautiful, enchanting artwork, a simple concept and truly ingenious puzzles. This game was also featured in Indie Game: The Movie, so watch this if you're interested.
  2. Praseidimio666
    Nov 24, 2015
    9
    Adds a third dimension to bidimensional games. So many new ideas in a genre that barely offers something new since 20 years or more. Graphics have a nice, simple style and the role of sound creates an almost psychedelic experience. You rarely have an impression of bland repetition or pointlessness that plagues most games
  3. boobins
    Jan 3, 2016
    9
    Great platform puzzle game. Some of the puzzles are really hard which I like. :o) .
  4. Leoka
    Aug 19, 2016
    9
    Este juego podría ser catalogado como un Mario Bros para adultos, no solo por la historia sino también por los gráficos y una resolución de puzzles que a veces puede ser demasiado frustrante. El arte de este juego es hermoso y si bien el personaje casi no tiene animaciones, no son necesarias ya que el juego en si es lo importante y la relación del tiempo es crucial para resolver cadaEste juego podría ser catalogado como un Mario Bros para adultos, no solo por la historia sino también por los gráficos y una resolución de puzzles que a veces puede ser demasiado frustrante. El arte de este juego es hermoso y si bien el personaje casi no tiene animaciones, no son necesarias ya que el juego en si es lo importante y la relación del tiempo es crucial para resolver cada pantalla.… Expand
  5. ornichola
    Oct 14, 2016
    9
    One of the greatest games - truly representative of independent development based on game passion. Johnathan Blow and his team created really cool puzzle with interesting game mechanic. Moreover, it is bear out by great art and story. I really love this game and recommend it to play.
  6. BarkingDoggy
    May 1, 2017
    9
    A great puzzle game with a cool time-manipulating mechanic that is used in many creative ways. The way these mechanics also complement the story and their philosophical meanings is brilliant. This painted world is a joy to explore and piece together. The puzzles are simple yet oh-so complex. Brilliant.
  7. thealexmott
    Mar 26, 2017
    9
    Sometimes frustratingly difficult, but it feels SO GOOD when you finally solve those puzzles. A genius and thought-provoking platformer. A memorable creepy vibe with a great ending.
  8. damaso7
    May 10, 2021
    9
    This game is a piece of art. The soundtrack, the background, the different levels of difficulty, everything is well tuned to achieve a really original game with the seal of Jonathan Blow
  9. Slayer
    Jun 7, 2009
    8
    Very nice little game, should be a little longer but it is nice at all.
  10. VinceK
    Apr 25, 2009
    8
    Everything Seamus said was wrong about the game is the reason why I love it. Yes, there is trial and error, and you have to rewind many times, but the game made it so easy and seamless that the payoff and satisfaction you get when you finally nail it at the end is immense and genuine. I think the only way your gaming experience will be hurt is if you consult gamefaqs or some other guide, Everything Seamus said was wrong about the game is the reason why I love it. Yes, there is trial and error, and you have to rewind many times, but the game made it so easy and seamless that the payoff and satisfaction you get when you finally nail it at the end is immense and genuine. I think the only way your gaming experience will be hurt is if you consult gamefaqs or some other guide, and rob youself of that satisfaction. Some of the hardest puzzles in the game had the easiest answers, none of them were "vague," it was just a matter of looking at it in a different light (except for the stars, but those are not integral to finishing the game (wait, can the game be finished?)). The only flaw I saw with the game is its short length and nil replay value,,,,but that has changed with the implementation of the level editor, which I hope will create a thriving Braid level-making community.… Expand
  11. FrancisK
    Apr 30, 2009
    8
    Ingenious time mechanics, beautiful art direction and music, fresh take on old gameplay and mind-blowing twist ending makes this a memorable gem among video games. However, the game is too short and storytelling is just too vague and feels disconnected from the game itself. It just looks like the author didn't want to care much about it, so he just put together random metaphors Ingenious time mechanics, beautiful art direction and music, fresh take on old gameplay and mind-blowing twist ending makes this a memorable gem among video games. However, the game is too short and storytelling is just too vague and feels disconnected from the game itself. It just looks like the author didn't want to care much about it, so he just put together random metaphors between the levels and said, "Well, this is good because it's so mysterious." No, it isn't. Even letting players guess he meaning has its limits and Braid is very close to that limit.… Expand
  12. OliverC.
    Jul 15, 2009
    8
    Game reminds me of portal, you feel like a genius when you beat it and the story telling and atmosphere were great. Be warned that this is a puzzle-platformer not a puzzle game disguised as a platformer. Because of that, a lot of the later levels end up being more a problem of timing rather than intelligence. The storytelling really shines in the epilogue, i wont give it away but the Game reminds me of portal, you feel like a genius when you beat it and the story telling and atmosphere were great. Be warned that this is a puzzle-platformer not a puzzle game disguised as a platformer. Because of that, a lot of the later levels end up being more a problem of timing rather than intelligence. The storytelling really shines in the epilogue, i wont give it away but the ending race is mindblowing. Still, I'm not sure I got quite 15 dollars worth of gameplay but i'm very impressed overall.… Expand
  13. Karlw
    Sep 13, 2009
    8
    Great game, very good puzzles, but it's plot was a bit too vague to be compelling. While it was absolutely interesting, there's a point where a game can just be a little bit too incoherent. I paid $5 for this game on steam, and I got about 4 and a half hours of play time from it. While I couldn't exactly justify a $15 purchase, it's a charming, entertaining puzzle Great game, very good puzzles, but it's plot was a bit too vague to be compelling. While it was absolutely interesting, there's a point where a game can just be a little bit too incoherent. I paid $5 for this game on steam, and I got about 4 and a half hours of play time from it. While I couldn't exactly justify a $15 purchase, it's a charming, entertaining puzzle game/platformer that's worth experiencing.… Expand
  14. Nathanc
    Apr 19, 2009
    8
    Not gonna lie, this game is a complete mind Fu** in many ways. On some of the worlds i literally exclaimed WTF? I really enjoyed the innovative puzzles that I have never seen before, but was very dissapointed that they didn't combine some of the "powers" together is later worlds, such as Using the ring, and the alternate universe trick. That would have been really satisfying. The Not gonna lie, this game is a complete mind Fu** in many ways. On some of the worlds i literally exclaimed WTF? I really enjoyed the innovative puzzles that I have never seen before, but was very dissapointed that they didn't combine some of the "powers" together is later worlds, such as Using the ring, and the alternate universe trick. That would have been really satisfying. The story in it, almost makes no since whatsoever, and i feel as if some of it was just thrown in at random. another thing I have to complain about is that it was uber short. I beat the game in an afternoon, which i feel makes the game slightly overpriced. Despite my gripes, this is a very fun indi game that should not be overlooked. It way by far the most fun I have had in a while. I eagerly look forward to a (hopefully longer) sequel.… Expand
  15. Itsapaul
    Mar 31, 2011
    8
    I usually hate puzzle games like this, but for a while it was pretty intriguing. The time mechanic keeps changing enough to keep up, and the boss fights are definitely fun. I guess I'm just not cut out for puzzles, since I just look up all of them in other games because I don't care about solving them.
  16. Marcio_Miranda
    Aug 17, 2011
    8
    Very good Indie game. Graphics, sound, music, controls and story are all well made. Maybe a little over-hyped but definitely good game. And even though it's short, it's also cheap, wich is good since that's not the kind of game I want to play for too long as it can get boring after a while. So I think game lenght is also made right. The game ends before getting tedious. The timeVery good Indie game. Graphics, sound, music, controls and story are all well made. Maybe a little over-hyped but definitely good game. And even though it's short, it's also cheap, wich is good since that's not the kind of game I want to play for too long as it can get boring after a while. So I think game lenght is also made right. The game ends before getting tedious. The time manipulation feature is part of the game mechanic and essential to solve puzzles. There's nothing to compare to the "error correcting" time-rewind from Prince of Persia. And there's nothing that reminded me of any other game (Mario?... Donkey Kong?... had to be someone that don't actually play games to say something like that).

    Worth playing.    … Expand
  17. keefbaker
    Oct 17, 2013
    8
    Intelligent, clever, beautiful and a really honest game the like of which is rarely seen. Takes old school 2D platformers to the level of art with its amazingly balanced gameplay and world of secrets it shows only to the most dedicated player.
  18. Chroma
    May 30, 2012
    8
    Braid was a game I got in a humble bundle that I hadn't played until now. I had already spoiled myself with the story and with no real plans of buying it. So when I saw in my downloads, I figured I give it a try since I had already bought it. I was surprised that I still managed to have fun playing the game and piecing the story together. You will see what I mean as I talk about Braid.Braid was a game I got in a humble bundle that I hadn't played until now. I had already spoiled myself with the story and with no real plans of buying it. So when I saw in my downloads, I figured I give it a try since I had already bought it. I was surprised that I still managed to have fun playing the game and piecing the story together. You will see what I mean as I talk about Braid.

    Story: This is the big thing you will hear about when people talk about this game. You probably won't understand it your first time through until you play the game again and notice how everything relates. Even then, there are still many discussions about the game story. So to not spoil things, I will tell you the premise your are given, Your trying to save the princess who has gone missing due to a mistake you made. As you go into each world's lobby, you can read books that give you more in site on the story. I personally think the story is very interesting and cleverly told through the game. It uses the world and optional books to tell the story rather then cut-scenes and dialogue.

    Gameplay:

    Braid plays like a 2D side scroller with the addition element of time. You make your way through each level while collecting puzzle pieces needed to reach the ending. You can't jump really high but if you bounce off an enemy you can jump higher. All puzzles are solved using the Speed button. You can rewind or freeze movement. It sounds simple but there are object that are not affected by rewind, objects that need to be recovered using rewind, and guiding enemies using the rewind function. New mechanisms get added to each world that keeps things interesting. Most of the puzzles are simple to figure with only a few can be frustrating if you don't understand a game-play mechanic that was not explained. I did have to use a walk-through to see precisely what to do on those frustrating parts. Many of the levels are short and the game can be completed in 6 hours. I enjoyed the game play and had fun.

    Graphics/Sound:

    The graphics in braid are like a beautiful watercolor paintings. It gives the feeling you are exploring strange worlds and relates to the mood of the story. They are so detailed that you want to play this game on the biggest screen you have. The the foregrounds and character makes me think of a theater using paper puppets. Everything is animated so well that nothing feels unnatural. The art style is perfectly done. The music in Braid is relaxing and atmospheric. You can fall asleep to it and dream. It fits well with the game and the story.

    Conclusion:

    Braid may seam like a simple plat former with a gorgeous atmosphere but it's much more then that. The story is surprisingly deep and deceptive at first. You will have to complete the game once or maybe twice to really understand the story. The game-play is simple and easy to get into but can get quite deep with the rewind mechanics. Most puzzles are easy to figure out but some are frustrating if you didn't figure out a game-play mechanic that was never taught. It can be bought for $10 on a online store or $20 DRM free and works on all Operating systems from the Developers website. Overall, It's a great game that you may enjoy.    … Expand
  19. stefrank
    Jan 18, 2014
    8
    Although it's not a perfect game as many reviewers appear to believe, Braid is certainly above average. The puzzles are challenging enough to be fun without feeling overwhelming, the art (specifically the backgrounds) are quite pretty, the music is nice, and the game-play in general is unique. While this game does suffer from rather strange enemy hit-boxes, the virtual invincibility ofAlthough it's not a perfect game as many reviewers appear to believe, Braid is certainly above average. The puzzles are challenging enough to be fun without feeling overwhelming, the art (specifically the backgrounds) are quite pretty, the music is nice, and the game-play in general is unique. While this game does suffer from rather strange enemy hit-boxes, the virtual invincibility of manipulating time usually makes it easy to fix ensuing mistakes.
    The worst part of this game is actually the plot, with some of the text bordering on cringe-worthy. This, however, is of little consequence as the plot can be skipped entirely if desired.
    All things considered, if you're interested in a 2-D platforming puzzle game, braid is a great choice (especially during a steam sale).    … Expand
  20. joshxdr
    Dec 26, 2013
    8
    Braid is a 2-D puzzle platform game where time control is the key game mechanic. There are a few places where quick reflexes are required, but for the most part solving the puzzles just requires figuring out the right sequence of actions. Most of the puzzles are intuitive yet difficult and require a lot of thought to solve. A few puzzles were so difficult that I had to consult a videoBraid is a 2-D puzzle platform game where time control is the key game mechanic. There are a few places where quick reflexes are required, but for the most part solving the puzzles just requires figuring out the right sequence of actions. Most of the puzzles are intuitive yet difficult and require a lot of thought to solve. A few puzzles were so difficult that I had to consult a video walkthrough. The goal of the game is to collect puzzle pieces, and then assemble the puzzle on a canvas. The puzzles are artsy-fartsty paintings which are pretty decent, and it is trivial yet fun to put the puzzle together. There are also books in the game that contain pieces of a story. Just like the paintings, the developer is trying to get artsy-fartsy with this story as well. For me the story was too disjointed and "out there" for me, but this does not really detract from the game. The art and music for the game are very good. I played this game with a game controller on my PC, it is probably a bit harder to play in on a keyboard. Overall it is an excellent game that I can strongly recommend. If you like this game, you might like these 2-d puzzle games: Limbo, Vessel, The Swapper. You might also try 3-d puzzle games Portal, Portal 2, and Antichamber.… Expand
  21. stranglehold
    Dec 24, 2013
    8
    In an age when many games feel like clones of one another or are designed to be easy to beat, Braid sticks to its guns and delivers a rewarding and memorable experience that's definitely worth checking out. It's like an invigorating breath of fresh air, and proof that a handful of independent developers can create games that raise the bar for others.
  22. curzon_dax
    May 9, 2018
    8
    Overrated for a 10, but it deserves an 8. The game is relatively original, though not extremely; there are various other puzzle games though this one is at least older than most of the similar ones. The puzzles can be often irritating not because they are inherently hard to figure out per se, but hard to perform. I doubt this game can get any awards for smoothness in gameplay mechanics ofOverrated for a 10, but it deserves an 8. The game is relatively original, though not extremely; there are various other puzzle games though this one is at least older than most of the similar ones. The puzzles can be often irritating not because they are inherently hard to figure out per se, but hard to perform. I doubt this game can get any awards for smoothness in gameplay mechanics of movement so I think it should have limited the need for acrobatics and it should have limited the hardness in mind games mostly. But anyway, in overall the game is good, the story ok (not stellar), the gameplay good, all in all it's good, it's almost a 7 but due to its originality at the time an 8 it deserves.… Expand
  23. everin
    Oct 1, 2015
    8
    Tier 2
    + For the most part expertly conceived
    + Good examples of gameplay informing theme, aesthetics, and story
    + Excellent visuals
    ? Somewhat disjointed and overwrought narrative
    - Some puzzles are more annoying than fun due to weird time mechanics
    - "Secret Stars" not particularly well designe
  24. Hunnoycombe
    Jan 21, 2014
    8
    As i have entered this game much later than others, oblivious to both hype and hate, i can really see both sides to the below reviews.
    On the one hand, it can seem a rather generic platformer at first (But it isnt) and is much too short, but on the other hand, if one feels it is short, its because you want more... and i certainly wanted more of Braid.
    the puzzles, the time mechanic, the    As i have entered this game much later than others, oblivious to both hype and hate, i can really see both sides to the below reviews.
    On the one hand, it can seem a rather generic platformer at first (But it isnt) and is much too short, but on the other hand, if one feels it is short, its because you want more... and i certainly wanted more of Braid.
    the puzzles, the time mechanic, the hand drawn art (especially the intricate backgrounds ) all fit together nicely enough to leave you wondering why Jonothan Blow didn't make any sequels (or even just more)    … Expand
  25. naufri27
    Mar 5, 2021
    8
    Aventura bonita y encantadora de las que siempre recordarás y tendrás un grato recuerdo, pese a ser demasiado corta. Con un mérito especial para la única persona que lo hizo posible: Jonathan Blow.

    No es un juego de plataformas corriente, se sirve de jugar con el tiempo en numerosas vertientes para transmitir al jugador una historia de amor fuera de lo común en entornos coloreados con    Aventura bonita y encantadora de las que siempre recordarás y tendrás un grato recuerdo, pese a ser demasiado corta. Con un mérito especial para la única persona que lo hizo posible: Jonathan Blow.

    No es un juego de plataformas corriente, se sirve de jugar con el tiempo en numerosas vertientes para transmitir al jugador una historia de amor fuera de lo común en entornos coloreados con estilo acuarela. En cada mundo, el tiempo será usado de diferente manera para recoger las piezas de rompecabezas necesarias para completar y darle sentido al fragmento de historia que nos va contando poco a poco. Hace reflexionar al jugador o jugadora sobre las relaciones y los miedos que todos arrastramos. Y es que, como clara referencia a Mario Bros., es muy posible que nuestra princesa ideal siempre esté en otro castillo.

    Añade además una banda sonora sobresaliente que redondea esa ambientación cautivadora, cuyo tema principal está basado en la canción tradicional de origen gallego-celta llamada O son do ar.    … Expand
  26. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    8
    Visualmente interesante y con unas mecánicas de juego sobre el control del tiempo que lo hacen una referencia en el campo de los juegos indies, pero tal vez la historia queda un poco desvinculada de la mecánica. Vale la pena comprarlo, sobre todo en rebajas.
  27. Basquilly
    Mar 14, 2016
    8
    I'll be honest, I cannot pinpoint why this game evoked so much emotion in me. Looking back it seems pretentious and dull. However, thinking back to how I felt when I actually played the game, I recall that I was engrossed in the subtle yet meaningful story, the innovative gameplay and the unique style of the game. I cannot deny that playing this game was one of the most memorableI'll be honest, I cannot pinpoint why this game evoked so much emotion in me. Looking back it seems pretentious and dull. However, thinking back to how I felt when I actually played the game, I recall that I was engrossed in the subtle yet meaningful story, the innovative gameplay and the unique style of the game. I cannot deny that playing this game was one of the most memorable experiences I've had in gaming.… Expand
  28. Amandaklop
    May 9, 2015
    8
    A very challenging and engaging game with interesting time mechanisms and commentary on relationships. Right up until the pretentious and unrelated ending.
  29. Shadran
    Dec 27, 2022
    8
    Sad puzzle game with beautiful art and nice relaxing music. There are few hiccups in difficulty that can make you mad, but other then that its pretty good. I especially liked the shadow levels and chandeliers fights.
  30. kezzyhko
    Aug 5, 2020
    8
    ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
  31. Topoide
    Feb 18, 2022
    8
    Juego con muy buena jugabilidad, muy buenos puzzles y una historia interesante.
  32. GeorgeD
    Sep 11, 2009
    7
    Not quite what the hype would lead you to believe. It is an interesting game with several different variations on time control and platforming. The music is excellent but I found the sound effects to be quite poor in comparison. The detailed and stylistic art is beautiful and almost always a nice sight to behold. All in all the game falls short on value with fairly frustrating game play Not quite what the hype would lead you to believe. It is an interesting game with several different variations on time control and platforming. The music is excellent but I found the sound effects to be quite poor in comparison. The detailed and stylistic art is beautiful and almost always a nice sight to behold. All in all the game falls short on value with fairly frustrating game play that doesn't lend well to replay. At 15 USD I feel it is a bit overpriced for what you get.… Expand
  33. UglyBaby
    Feb 22, 2013
    7
    If you don't know about this game you should. It isn't really even a game you should write a review of it should be mandatory to play this to call yourself a gamer. Braid is one of the touchstones of contemporary gaming and it is a perfect example of the immense amount of innovation games are capable of.

    Now that is in reference to the game play and mechanics. The story and characters    If you don't know about this game you should. It isn't really even a game you should write a review of it should be mandatory to play this to call yourself a gamer. Braid is one of the touchstones of contemporary gaming and it is a perfect example of the immense amount of innovation games are capable of.

    Now that is in reference to the game play and mechanics. The story and characters leave a lot to be asked for. While neither are big enough issues to take away from the general fun of the game the story reads like an one-star-highschool-emo-fantasy-novella (poorly) translated from german. The characters look exactly like what they are an overlooked element of the game.

    Music and backgrounds are beautiful. But they are sorely undeserved by the sprites.    … Expand
  34. JonesR
    Dec 1, 2011
    7
    Unique and interesting puzzle platformer. Six worlds, each offering a new challenge. Some of the puzzles are actually pretty difficult and can take a frustrating toll on your patience or more likely a trip to You Tube to figure them out. There is a story...kind of...but not really--I didn't really follow it. Overall, the game was enjoyable because it offered something different than theUnique and interesting puzzle platformer. Six worlds, each offering a new challenge. Some of the puzzles are actually pretty difficult and can take a frustrating toll on your patience or more likely a trip to You Tube to figure them out. There is a story...kind of...but not really--I didn't really follow it. Overall, the game was enjoyable because it offered something different than the norm, but it is pretty short.… Expand
  35. MOGEnrique
    Apr 10, 2011
    7
    Braid is an ingenious little puzzle/platformer, its core element is time manipulation in which each chapter has its own unique twist. The flow of the game is balanced, though sometimes depending on your platforming skills it can become a bit of a trial and error challenge, which may be tedious. The plot is a bit vague and confusing at first but the outcome is simply brilliant and wellBraid is an ingenious little puzzle/platformer, its core element is time manipulation in which each chapter has its own unique twist. The flow of the game is balanced, though sometimes depending on your platforming skills it can become a bit of a trial and error challenge, which may be tedious. The plot is a bit vague and confusing at first but the outcome is simply brilliant and well executed, exploiting the capabilities of the medium it's in. The visuals are aesthetically pleasing and the soundtrack is glorious. With roughly 10 hours of gameplay, its unique puzzles and mind-blowing epilogue, Braid is a must play.… Expand
  36. Breezix
    Sep 16, 2011
    7
    Definitely a great game, it has a deeper meaning and the art and music are extremely well done, it has a nice combination of puzzle, platform and adventure, but the fact is that the game play itself gets boring at some point. Once you're done with world 3, which is the 2nd world as you start in world 2, it gets quite boring and repetitive. The puzzling outside the main play is a very niceDefinitely a great game, it has a deeper meaning and the art and music are extremely well done, it has a nice combination of puzzle, platform and adventure, but the fact is that the game play itself gets boring at some point. Once you're done with world 3, which is the 2nd world as you start in world 2, it gets quite boring and repetitive. The puzzling outside the main play is a very nice touch and a much more fun way to tell the story as most people don't have the patience to read everything, even though it's fairly essential for the game. It has a lot of ups and downs, there were certain levels I did enjoy and once I didn't, it is a very innovative game and I have enjoyed playing it a lot, in the beginning. If you like puzzling and Mario, you might want to give this a try.… Expand
  37. CulturalFiend
    May 31, 2012
    7
    Overrated. Wait, before you disagree, just hear me out. This is a good game. A great game, actually. The gameplay is smooth, the artstyle is brilliant and the character design is interesting. The puzzles are each unique and fun to figure out. The story is, well, its there, somewhere. My only real problem with Braid is the fact that the creator deliberately made the game without anyOverrated. Wait, before you disagree, just hear me out. This is a good game. A great game, actually. The gameplay is smooth, the artstyle is brilliant and the character design is interesting. The puzzles are each unique and fun to figure out. The story is, well, its there, somewhere. My only real problem with Braid is the fact that the creator deliberately made the game without any discernible story. The creator himself has stated that their is more than one interpretation of the story and that he "would not be capable" of explaining it. So, the game has no story. It's just a bucketful of theories and ideas. But, don't give up on it, the game does have moral lessons embedded within the gameplay and "story". The most obvious theme is that the past cannot be reversed. What's done is done. While the story is different than normal games, and can turn many people away due to its vague nature, it's still interesting and a fresh take on both platformers and modern story-driven games. In my opinion, Braid shines due to its artistic aspect. The backgrounds in this game are amazing. Everything is, or at least seems to be, painted by hand. If not by hand, then in a "painterly" style, as the summary states. The character designs are simple, but very different and interesting when compared to other modern platformers. In conclusion, I would say that Braid is a unique game with a very vague, poignant and atypical story that will evoke a different theory from every individual that plays. While not a bad thing, it does not follow the traditional building blocks or plot outline that most games go by, and this can make it an unenjoyable experience for some. I give Braid a 7.5/10. Mostly because of how short the game is.… Expand
  38. NicholasJames
    Dec 16, 2012
    7
    I think it's simple and clever at the same time, why must it be either loved or hated, it's a puzzler and it makes you think, I enjoyed it and I recommend it to anyone who likes taking a break to something casual every now and then, now back to the zombies...
  39. markwhitton
    Nov 20, 2013
    7
    Braid is a very nice looking game with great aesthetic scenery… And it’s challenging… For me it was perhaps a little too far on the frustrating side! I did enjoy playing the game, providing I didn't get stuck in a place for too long, it’s then when I didn't enjoy my experience! The mechanic of time control is manipulated well (considering it’s the only one used that would be expected) andBraid is a very nice looking game with great aesthetic scenery… And it’s challenging… For me it was perhaps a little too far on the frustrating side! I did enjoy playing the game, providing I didn't get stuck in a place for too long, it’s then when I didn't enjoy my experience! The mechanic of time control is manipulated well (considering it’s the only one used that would be expected) and adds an interesting dynamic to the game! I personally didn't really have a clue what was going on in the game for the most part, however I did still enjoy it… The downside I feel is complete lack of replay-ability, I have no interest in playing the game again, but maybe that’s just me!… Expand
  40. Dco326
    Oct 5, 2021
    7
    Sve u svemu bilo je okej ali me je prica malo smorila jer je gomila gluposti manje vise, imaju dve tri puzle koje su govno tesko, uopste ne objasnjenje i tu se gubi gomila vremena, sve u svemu okej da se predje jednom.
  41. DJKrimson
    Dec 23, 2019
    7
    Cool puzzle platformer. Had fun playing it but I'd say 8.6 user score is way overrated.
  42. not_good
    Dec 15, 2010
    6
    What these guys aren't telling you is the controls are non customizable (you NEED a 3rd party app to use a controller or to change buttons). The graphics, while stylized and a neat direction, end up washed out and blurry, and the platforming is as generic as the story. Yes there is a "twist" to it, but if you played Prince of Persia, you won't be seeing anything new.

    The music is good,    What these guys aren't telling you is the controls are non customizable (you NEED a 3rd party app to use a controller or to change buttons). The graphics, while stylized and a neat direction, end up washed out and blurry, and the platforming is as generic as the story. Yes there is a "twist" to it, but if you played Prince of Persia, you won't be seeing anything new.

    The music is good, the controls tight, the game itself is decent, but this is not the second coming of platformers everyone is making it out to be. It is a generic indie game that reached circlejerk overhyped status; this is not a bad game or a great one, it is an average platformer.    … Expand
  43. Marlfox
    Dec 13, 2011
    6
    Was I suppose to get an instruction manual or something? I had to search Google to figure out exactly how to play because figuring it out on your own is not as simple as you would think. I can only praise this game for it's creativity and beauty.
  44. AWG
    Jul 7, 2013
    6
    Braid is a good game but it's not the greatest game. Yes, the concept is innovative and yes, graphics are cute but that's all. GOAT game? Nah. Poetry? Nah. More like "Your Average Indie Platform Game".
  45. Vonnd
    Jul 29, 2013
    6
    Bought it off steam summer sale. I had heard some good things about the game and wanted to check it out. It wasn't what I expected to be honest. The game is very short and using a guide would totally ruin it. I cleared the game with all the puzzle pieces in 2-3 hours. I'll keep it short and list all the things I liked and didn't like.

    Positive: + The art in the game was nice apart from    Bought it off steam summer sale. I had heard some good things about the game and wanted to check it out. It wasn't what I expected to be honest. The game is very short and using a guide would totally ruin it. I cleared the game with all the puzzle pieces in 2-3 hours. I'll keep it short and list all the things I liked and didn't like.

    Positive:
    + The art in the game was nice apart from the monsters.
    + I liked the little background story.

    Negative:
    - Rewinding time ruined the music. Luckily you can keep SFX sounds, turn the music down and put your own background music so this in itself didn't ruin the game for me. I still would've liked to listen to the original soundtrack without getting annoyed.
    - Puzzles were too easy in my opinion. I had about as hard time putting the 4x3 puzzles together as I had getting the pieces for them, apart from a very few levels.
    - Bosses were there simply to waste your time. Not providing any challenge or content to the game at all.

    Overall I'd say that there's a lot to improve. I did enjoy it a bit while it lasted so I'd like to see more games like this. I hope they'd last a bit longer though.    … Expand
  46. auditbadger
    Jul 30, 2017
    6
    I think that this is truly a unique game and I would recommend that if you are a fan of this type of genre then I think you should give this game a try.
  47. sebastianali
    Aug 25, 2019
    6
    Wow, jamas vi un juego tan sobrevalorado como Braid. Este juego es un amontonamiento de cosas buenas pero desgraciadamente también de cosas malas. El rendimiento es pésimo, los gráficos no se escalan para nada bien a la pantalla y por si fuera poco los puzzles si bien hay algunos buenos, otros son horribles. También la historia no parece tener mucho sentido. Es muy confusa y sin muchoWow, jamas vi un juego tan sobrevalorado como Braid. Este juego es un amontonamiento de cosas buenas pero desgraciadamente también de cosas malas. El rendimiento es pésimo, los gráficos no se escalan para nada bien a la pantalla y por si fuera poco los puzzles si bien hay algunos buenos, otros son horribles. También la historia no parece tener mucho sentido. Es muy confusa y sin mucho interés. El juego tampoco dura mucho, y dura muchísimo menos si te saltas los libritos que te cuentan chorradas y los puzzles aburridos. Pero la idea principal del juego es buena, por eso un 6… Expand
  48. JohnBerring
    Sep 10, 2009
    5
    This game was just a very simple port of classic donkey Kong. It reminded me of the Game boy color edition. It was the same thing with a dif guy and brushed up graphics. Apparently, when people say its original, they obviously havent played games 10 years ago. Im sorry, but this deserves a 5
  49. SJ_pl
    Jan 31, 2012
    5
    You can be an innovative creator, have an original idea and good level design but it doesn't make your game accessible and fun for many people. That's a shame.... but entry barrier is too high for such a regular user as me. I've played it for a few hours and drowned in frustration... I could think about it more, I could watch the answer on the web but the difficulty level isn't theYou can be an innovative creator, have an original idea and good level design but it doesn't make your game accessible and fun for many people. That's a shame.... but entry barrier is too high for such a regular user as me. I've played it for a few hours and drowned in frustration... I could think about it more, I could watch the answer on the web but the difficulty level isn't the problem. It's the lack of motivation that prevents me from pursuing it...… Expand
  50. tech-noir
    Dec 27, 2011
    5
    Braid is a puzzle, not a game, and I admit I am not good at puzzles. In fact, if they are too intricate, I will have trouble solving them. Braid is one of those complex puzzles. It started out fun and intriguing, but soon, I lost patience as the puzzles became more unreasonable. The platforming is minimal and only actually found in the last five minutes of the experience. In Braid, youBraid is a puzzle, not a game, and I admit I am not good at puzzles. In fact, if they are too intricate, I will have trouble solving them. Braid is one of those complex puzzles. It started out fun and intriguing, but soon, I lost patience as the puzzles became more unreasonable. The platforming is minimal and only actually found in the last five minutes of the experience. In Braid, you will be able to rewind and fast forward time in order to engineer your way through platforms, locks, and barriers. This appealing mechanic is used in a novel manner, and is implemented elaborately. The artwork is colorful and vivid, providing the player with a well developed background. Even if one does not enjoy the genre of music used in the soundtrack, the songs are fitting of the setting. Braid's plot is mildly interesting, even though it doesn't make much sense, nor does it provide much detail. You must appreciate and love puzzles in order to proceed and enjoy Braid thoroughly. I found the majority of the puzzles too complicated and impossible to solve without help. The overall experience is convoluted, jumbled, pretentious, and frustratingly complicated. This is a series of puzzles for puzzle lovers only. Even though the atmosphere of the puzzles along with their storyline are done well, it leaves me with an ultimate feeling of incoherence in the end. It's not that the puzzles are illogical, it's that they are overly complicated without needing to be. The process of solving these puzzles is not enjoyable nor satisfactory, and the ending is nearly pointless, being more of a continuation of loose fragments thrown together for no real reason. Braid is also very short and offers zero replay value. If you absolutely love puzzles or puzzles in games, give Braid a try. You might find it tolerable or even enjoy it. Personally, I feel that it is massively overrated and trite. Braid is about absolutely nothing at all. Its only purpose is to be self-important and pompous.… Expand
  51. res0nancer
    Jul 26, 2023
    5
    Определенно я не из тех, кто без подсказок может осилить данную игру. Увы, тупой. Игра имеет особую атмосферу, которая имеет странное воздействие на меня - будто я под чем-то в нее играю. Дроп.
  52. ankayah
    Dec 15, 2019
    5
    Poor me! I know that Braid is a classic game but it's too hard for me to acquire :(
  53. Lugo_xcv
    Jul 26, 2023
    5
    i know thats unpopular opinion, but yeah.
    pluses of the game: 1. style, 2. story
    minuses of the game: 1.gameplay so boring, 2. platforming in this game suck
  54. FelixS
    May 6, 2009
    4
    The game got nice graphics nice music and a good layout. Too bad the good stuff stops there. The gameplay is regular platform, jump here, jump there, Jump on the evil guys, watch out for the man eating flowers from the pipes. We seen it done before and I could say Braid improved on it, if there was anything to improve on. Braid is just like super mario on this part. So here comes the part The game got nice graphics nice music and a good layout. Too bad the good stuff stops there. The gameplay is regular platform, jump here, jump there, Jump on the evil guys, watch out for the man eating flowers from the pipes. We seen it done before and I could say Braid improved on it, if there was anything to improve on. Braid is just like super mario on this part. So here comes the part that Braid tried to make new, the time concept, which in itself is a great concept but in practice means you do the same thing over and over again till you get it right. The puzzles aren't so much puzzles as "what am I thinking about" questions, where there is only one right answer that doesn't have to be logical at all. The game is nice with its strange atmosphere and time modifying parts, but never do you get the feeling you actually accomplished anything, In fact you don't actually have to accomplish anything at all, if you didn't menage to get that piece of the puzzle you can just skip it. No strings attached for you to actually finish getting that last part of the puzzle unless you want to play the last 6th world, at which point my patience was well over already. I think Ill just stick to I Wanna Be the Guy, a game which at least doesn't try to hide you will get annoyed as hell on it.… Expand
  55. Jgibson2
    Jan 22, 2011
    4
    Braid is like getting a beautiful present, and opening it to realize youâ
  56. Avalanch3
    Nov 20, 2013
    4
    ‘Such an anti-climax.’

    I purchased this game having gotten somewhat tired of the same old games I have been playing of late. Looking forward to a game that has achieved such formidable critical acclaim and what can only be described as one of the greatest, most innovative indie games to have surfaced in recent years. All I can say is what a huge disappointment this was and I would quite    ‘Such an anti-climax.’

    I purchased this game having gotten somewhat tired of the same old games I have been playing of late. Looking forward to a game that has achieved such formidable critical acclaim and what can only be described as one of the greatest, most innovative indie games to have surfaced in recent years. All I can say is what a huge disappointment this was and I would quite simply like to have my money back. Don't get me wrong, I loved the concept of time manipulation included in the game as a core mechanic... It mightn’t be the most original of concepts but still it was a nice core mechanic to fool around and play with. As I eagerly encompassed my very first (and last) play through I quickly became mesmerised by the stunning visuals and the painterly stylistic design. Its touching (if not a little clichéd and pretentious) plot leaves much to be desired but is thankfully saved by its storytelling execution as it slowly unfolds and is told in such a captivating and beautiful manner. What I did take away from Braid that will undoubtedly leave its mark is of course its enchanting score. This however for me didn't save it from the puzzle based platforming tediousness and repetitiveness that soon followed and engulfed my enjoyable (at first) play through. For me the monotonous challenge invoked in this game soon lead to frustration which in turn created an unwillingness and lack of desire to continue and carry on with my progress. Who would have guessed trial and error could cause such anguish and misery. It is a wonderful accomplishment in some respects and I applaud the game’s developer for what he has created, but to blindly call this overhyped and incredibly overrated game a masterpiece is to insult the many other praiseworthy indie titles out there.    … Expand
  57. bboppy
    Oct 9, 2014
    4
    So apparently if you're a normal human being, you'll rate this game 10/10. I can't for the life of me figure out why. The puzzles are alright, but the story is pretentious and uninteresting.
  58. FredX
    May 1, 2009
    3
    Not knowing much about this game apart from the praise, I looked forward to this "innovative" indie game coming to PC, but after playing it, I've come to realize that most of the praise is just hype. I generally like 2-D scrollers and puzzle games, but this game still didn't grab me. The only going for it is actually the graphics in the background (I don't like the Not knowing much about this game apart from the praise, I looked forward to this "innovative" indie game coming to PC, but after playing it, I've come to realize that most of the praise is just hype. I generally like 2-D scrollers and puzzle games, but this game still didn't grab me. The only going for it is actually the graphics in the background (I don't like the chubby/compressed nature of the "sprites"). Gameplay is just tedious trial and error, which I get sick of pretty quick. They've tried to make everything vague (story and gameplay) just to make it more interesting, but vague isn't the same as interesting, to me it's plain boring. This does not feel original, it feels contrived, and just isn't fun.… Expand
  59. SeamusB.
    Apr 13, 2009
    3
    This surely has to be the most overrated 'indie' game of all time. Although somewhat innovative in its much-hyped time-manipulation mechanic, even though this was merely an elaboration on Prince of Persia's system, the rest of the gameplay falls woefully short. Much of the game's challenge comes not from the puzzles, most of which are blatantly apparent; but instead This surely has to be the most overrated 'indie' game of all time. Although somewhat innovative in its much-hyped time-manipulation mechanic, even though this was merely an elaboration on Prince of Persia's system, the rest of the gameplay falls woefully short. Much of the game's challenge comes not from the puzzles, most of which are blatantly apparent; but instead from the extremely fiddly nature of how your character controls, and the nigh-on unavoidable trial-and-error nature of both solving puzzles and fighting enemies. As such, the central mechanic of the game becomes its greatest hindrance - as the game is designed around time manipulation, and the ability to go back and fix errors, it also becomes a nightmare of micro-managing the character's actions, to the point where in some cases if the character is more than a few pixels off the intended route, or strays just a bit too far in a given direction, he is killed, forcing a rewind. Despite the easily solvable nature of most of the puzzles, several are far too vague, and at least for myself, required consulting GameFAQs.com more than once. The purpose of the jigsaw puzzles is not explained during the game, and neither is the fact that completing certain portions actually makes certain parts of the game inaccessible, necessitating a restart of the game from scratch if the player wishes to see these parts. Also, the plot of the game is deliberately vague, misleading and utterly pretentious and overblown - totally out of place, considering the game's rather cutesy, whimsical style and direction. Although great care has obviously been lavished on the graphics and music, both of which are a joy to behold, they feel lost on such a teeth-grindingly irritating core game. There are many better examples of progressive platforming/puzzle games with deep and innovative gameplay and great graphics and sound, most of which don't cost a penny, such as Iji, Within a Deep Forest, Knytt, Knytt Stories, Fancy Pants Adventure, Nevermore 3, Eternal Daughter and many more. I realize most will not agree with my take on the game, but I honestly could not believe there's a single negative review of it anywhere with what to me seem like such apparent and fundamental flaws in how the game plays.… Expand
  60. cratecruncher
    Mar 31, 2016
    3
    "Brilliant", "Beautiful", "Incredible story" is all I heard about this game until I bought and actually played it. I rarely have a negative review of a game. But I had to say something to warn others from falling for the hype like I did. The game mechanic consists of reading a few paragraphs of story followed by some incredibly tedious timed jumping to retrieve pieces of jigsaw puzzles"Brilliant", "Beautiful", "Incredible story" is all I heard about this game until I bought and actually played it. I rarely have a negative review of a game. But I had to say something to warn others from falling for the hype like I did. The game mechanic consists of reading a few paragraphs of story followed by some incredibly tedious timed jumping to retrieve pieces of jigsaw puzzles using awkward keyboard controls that can't be remapped. The problem is it's the same basic tedious timing puzzle over and over. I got bored with it within 30 minutes but soldiered on hoping for some variety that never materialized. I was really disappointed with this overhyped, overrated platformer. If you love the genre you've likely already played and love it (see first sentence). If you hate tedious, repetitive platforming games avoid Braid.… Expand
  61. bigsilverhotdog
    May 1, 2016
    2
    Jumpman, Super Mario World, Commander Keen 4 Goodbye Galaxy, Prince of Persia, all classic platformers.

    This is a bad platformer that shamelessly steals ideas and tries to pass them off as it's own.

    I found it incredibly irritating, lacking in charm, and just plain repetitive. Plus it wasn't the least bit fun to play at any stage. Yuck.
  62. Mogul
    Mar 26, 2013
    2
    This game has a beautiful atmosphere and story. It really does. Unfortunately, I simply did not enjoy working my way through the various puzzles. I just found them to be so unbelievably tedious, and only managed to put about 2 hours into this before deciding to move on to games that I actually like playing.
  63. suneater
    Dec 11, 2012
    2
    The epitome of pretentious indie hipster games. There is a decent puzzle-based platforming game here but the ending really soured the whole game for me. PoP: Sands of Time did everything this game did but better and 6 years prior.
  64. StoneSteal
    Nov 6, 2012
    1
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. How does this get so much praise?

    This game overall is so laughably bad that I'm ashamed that it got a 90. The design is so bad it rivals Bubsy 3D. The concept of rewinding time is ruined by un-rewindable objects, and you never really truly need it unless you die. Yes there is a good puzzle in world 3, but that's it. MOST OVERRATED INDIE GAME OF ALL TIME.    … Expand
  65. SiraitX
    Jul 31, 2016
    0
    This game is just crap. Braid is the most overrated 'indie' game of all time. Cheap story, just like Mario Bros story trying to save princess inside a castle. LOL
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best PC Game of 2009
18
#18 Most Discussed PC Game of 2009
12
#12 Most Shared PC Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 11
  3. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. Total PC Gaming
    90
    360 gamers were frothing at the mouth for good reason: it’s an instant indie classic.
    Read full review
  2. IGN
    88
    In an age when many games feel like clones of one another or are designed to be easy to beat, Braid sticks to its guns and delivers a rewarding and memorable experience that's definitely worth checking out. It's like an invigorating breath of fresh air, and proof that a handful of independent developers can create games that raise the bar for others.
    Read full review
  3. Thunderbolt
    80
    It doesn’t just copy a certain plumber’s early adventures verbatim like so many before it – some of them excellent in their own right – did, but seeks to plant the seeds of growth that the genre has lacked for so many years in showing that, by imprinting its own identity on a well weathered template, incredible things can happen.
    Read full review
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