Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 355 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 309 out of 355
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 355
  3. Negative: 26 out of 355

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  1. neomoonsevin
    Jan 21, 2023
    8
    Very good co op or solo game the storyline is great and the view structures are great
  2. hydroquaqua
    Mar 19, 2022
    10
    _уникальный опыт в управлении персонажами, понятная история рассказанная на непонятном языке, мир шокирующий своими видами, интригующее приключение, это Brothers a Tale of Two Sons, пример когда в одной игре работает всё как нужно игроку

    _a unique experience in managing characters, an understandable story told in an incomprehensible language, a world shocking with its views, an    _уникальный опыт в управлении персонажами, понятная история рассказанная на непонятном языке, мир шокирующий своими видами, интригующее приключение, это Brothers a Tale of Two Sons, пример когда в одной игре работает всё как нужно игроку

    _a unique experience in managing characters, an understandable story told in an incomprehensible language, a world shocking with its views, an intriguing adventure, this is Brothers a Tale of Two Sons, an example when everything works as the player needs in one game    … Expand
  3. CloudStrife05
    Aug 19, 2021
    9
    Brothers was so well done. A beautiful scenery with good mechanics. You use the right thumb stick to move the one of the bothers and when you have to cross both brothers in certain puzzles, it runs very smooth.
  4. Chain_Affinity
    May 25, 2020
    10
    Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is such a beautiful and magical tapestry of story weaving. The minimalistic design told through imagery, ambiance and music come together to create a gem of an experience. Simply a masterpiece.
  5. drlowdon
    Dec 22, 2018
    8
    Many big budget titles could really learn a thing or two from indie games on the art of telling a story without the need for constant interruptions and cut scenes. One of the best examples of this in recent years is Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons which tells a dark, yet moving, tale with a gut punch of an ending.

    Of course, a good story is pretty meaningless if the gameplay isn’t up to    Many big budget titles could really learn a thing or two from indie games on the art of telling a story without the need for constant interruptions and cut scenes. One of the best examples of this in recent years is Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons which tells a dark, yet moving, tale with a gut punch of an ending.

    Of course, a good story is pretty meaningless if the gameplay isn’t up to scratch, but Brothers delivers in this department too. The key to the gameplay is the unique control scheme that tasks the player with guiding both brothers at once using the two analogue sticks, as well as R1 and L1 for context sensitive actions. This has allowed the developers to create some brilliantly clever puzzle and gameplay sequences that simply wouldn’t otherwise be possible. Again, this is a fairly short experience but one that’ll stick with you long after the credits roll.    … Expand
  6. Mumes
    Oct 9, 2015
    9
    I downloaded this game a few months ago, when it was for free if you had a Xbox Live Gold account. I had heard of it, it seemed a interesting concept, so I played it for a while, enjoyed it's puzzles and gameplay, and simple story got me engaged, though after that session of playing I kind of forgot about it until today, now I finished, and I can say that i never expected such a story, aI downloaded this game a few months ago, when it was for free if you had a Xbox Live Gold account. I had heard of it, it seemed a interesting concept, so I played it for a while, enjoyed it's puzzles and gameplay, and simple story got me engaged, though after that session of playing I kind of forgot about it until today, now I finished, and I can say that i never expected such a story, a experience to come from such a simple and short game, it was amazing and surprising, leaving me really touched with the journey the Brothers went through, this game is definitely worth playing.… Expand
  7. Epik_Ninnja
    May 25, 2015
    8
    It's a short adventure/puzzle game about two brothers going out into the dangerous world and bringing back medicine for their sick father. It's fun and all, with frequent creative bits on display, but it's no more than a 7/10 until the last half hour. The ending is esecuted excellently, and in a game this short, that ought to boost its score a point. In short, play this game for itsIt's a short adventure/puzzle game about two brothers going out into the dangerous world and bringing back medicine for their sick father. It's fun and all, with frequent creative bits on display, but it's no more than a 7/10 until the last half hour. The ending is esecuted excellently, and in a game this short, that ought to boost its score a point. In short, play this game for its inventive gamwplay and its ending.… Expand
  8. Bajo19
    May 17, 2015
    10
    I can't tell how much I love this game. Controlling two brothers, figuring out puzzles and watching them helping animals and people. Really cute game. Those feelings..
  9. Termin8ter
    Apr 26, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Brothers: A tale of Two Sons is an almost amazing experience. You play as the two brothers (obviously) but each stick on the controller controls one of the brothers, you don't have to do co-op. I found that as I played through, it reminded me of The lord of the rings or another adventurous novel. This game feels very adventurous. In the begging of the story/game the mother dies and the father is very sick, so you talk to this elder and he shows you a map to where you find the cure to save your father from dying. The story is a little bit basic, but it gets told in a great way and its powerful. Buy this game.… Expand
  10. TimCameron
    Apr 16, 2015
    10
    Brothers is one of my all time favorite games. Never have I felt more strongly connected to a game's protagonists; more deeply invested in their fortunes and the consequences of our shared actions; more engaged with the narrative of a video game. I think Brothers achieves a rare and delicate balancing of the feeling of self possession; of action and control that you get from a well craftedBrothers is one of my all time favorite games. Never have I felt more strongly connected to a game's protagonists; more deeply invested in their fortunes and the consequences of our shared actions; more engaged with the narrative of a video game. I think Brothers achieves a rare and delicate balancing of the feeling of self possession; of action and control that you get from a well crafted interactive experience, in concert with the sense of directed-ness, of being an onlooker swept up in someone else's experiences such as you might feel when reading a gripping book or watching an engaging film. This surely is the gold standard for a role-playing game and there are very few others out there that truly measure up I feel. I enjoyed it so much that after I'd finished I made my own brother play it and sat through watching him play, and then we played it through a third time to find the rest of the easter eggs which were all fantastic!… Expand
  11. JackC
    Mar 24, 2015
    8
    At first I though this would be a light hearted puzzle game based around the idea of controlling two characters at once, what I got was a touching and dark story of the importance of family cloaked by the theme of death.

    The game itself is fairly simplistic and short but the characters, story and context carry you through.

    8/10
  12. TheQuietGamer
    Feb 12, 2015
    9
    An emotional, fairy-tale story with haunting moments that will stick with you long after the credits have rolled. It might not take long for the credits to roll and it lacks replay value outside of getting all the achievements (an easy task), but it's worth picking up for the gorgeous world, emotional story, and unique gameplay.

    Controlling two characters can be a little awkward at    An emotional, fairy-tale story with haunting moments that will stick with you long after the credits have rolled. It might not take long for the credits to roll and it lacks replay value outside of getting all the achievements (an easy task), but it's worth picking up for the gorgeous world, emotional story, and unique gameplay.

    Controlling two characters can be a little awkward at times, but for the most part it's not a huge issue. The puzzles and platforming aren't difficult but are still fun. If you'r willing to put up with a slower pace than most games offer there are plenty of excellent things to behold in this game. It's one of the most memorable experiences I've had with a video game, as well as one of the most thought-provoking and genuinely mature. It's a game that knows how to involve gamers directly and make us feel. A huge achievement that most game just can't pull off.    … Expand
  13. Calebd2
    Feb 11, 2015
    6
    Brothers is a short, but worthwhile experience. The first thing you'll notice is the different control mechanics. One never really gets use to them, and you'll be aware of how odd it is the entire play through. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing as it directly relates to the story. The mechanics are an interesting change of pace.
    The story is touching and interesting, although I    Brothers is a short, but worthwhile experience. The first thing you'll notice is the different control mechanics. One never really gets use to them, and you'll be aware of how odd it is the entire play through. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing as it directly relates to the story. The mechanics are an interesting change of pace.
    The story is touching and interesting, although I was expecting something a little more after all the raving positive reviews I'd read and heard of this game. Strangely, many people reported this as the best game they'd ever played, which is just silly. It is, however, an excellent experience, though short (about 3 hours). I played it in one sitting and I think that's the best way to do it. I found the length appropriate and think if it had been much longer it would have taken away from the game. This is a unique game that should be experienced.    … Expand
  14. Bo33y
    Feb 6, 2015
    6
    A beautiful, timeless, epic....... A shame that it was just too damn short.

    This game had many great ideas. Controls/game-play, graphic's, story. Unfortunately to put them into 3-4 hours of gaming doesn't do this game much justice. Conclusion was predictable, really saw that happening from prior rescue. Yet flawed, because rather then making the long way home, it wanted too wrap up    A beautiful, timeless, epic....... A shame that it was just too damn short.

    This game had many great ideas. Controls/game-play, graphic's, story. Unfortunately to put them into 3-4 hours of gaming doesn't do this game much justice.

    Conclusion was predictable, really saw that happening from prior rescue. Yet flawed, because rather then making the long way home, it wanted too wrap up quickly. Leaving empty on what could have been greater

    Wouldn't it have been better having more playtime, the ghost appearing more as a guide, the brothers themselves losing their way, possibly getting split up, open world, more quests..

    I am confused how the owl griffon, but a spliced phoenix resurrected? I didn't like the basket ball either...    … Expand
  15. Winterspark
    Feb 4, 2015
    5
    Cute, but ultimately a bit pointless. For all its arty cell shading and quirky dual controls there isn't really much here to speak of. The story is rather redundant and the opportunity to introduce any engaging puzzles is missed. The ultimate effect is somewhat similar to watching an arty manga film whilst twiddling your thumbs.
  16. Poodlepuff
    Feb 2, 2015
    10
    I really enjoyed this. I was more invested in the characters in this short game that spoke minimally in a language I didn't even understand than in any of the characters in the entire Fable series I just sunk 100+ hours into.

    It was beautiful, unique and enjoyable to play. I also want one of those owlcats.
  17. DonKnottsGhost
    Jan 7, 2014
    9
    This is what true video game story telling should be. Brothers uses an innovative gameplay mechanic to help the player coordinate cooperation and discovery between the two titular brothers. While others have complained that the mechanic is awkward, I felt that it helped reinforce the challenges of working together and solving problems from 2 different perspectives. Ultimately the gameThis is what true video game story telling should be. Brothers uses an innovative gameplay mechanic to help the player coordinate cooperation and discovery between the two titular brothers. While others have complained that the mechanic is awkward, I felt that it helped reinforce the challenges of working together and solving problems from 2 different perspectives. Ultimately the game mechanic also helps develop a sense of bonding and loss between the main characters. A short, but sweet experience, but certainly worthy of your time.… Expand
  18. ForeverFalling
    Jan 2, 2014
    10
    A genuinely beautiful game that just takes your breath away many times. Great atmosphere, inventive control scheme (each thumbstick controls a brother), some amazing set piece moments, clever puzzles, touching music, decent graphics for an arcade title and it is incredibly emotional at times. The story is simple but it hits home. We need more titles like this one. Starbreeze and JosefA genuinely beautiful game that just takes your breath away many times. Great atmosphere, inventive control scheme (each thumbstick controls a brother), some amazing set piece moments, clever puzzles, touching music, decent graphics for an arcade title and it is incredibly emotional at times. The story is simple but it hits home. We need more titles like this one. Starbreeze and Josef Fares, congrats on creating a unique little gem and I hope you have more in the bag!… Expand
  19. Cdw01
    Dec 30, 2013
    8
    An enchanting fairy tale adventure with gorgeous scenery and effective storytelling without using a single line of intelligible dialogue. The dual-stick control scheme is clever, intuitive, and implemented to great effect for puzzle gameplay. Showcases how games can be used as an effective storytelling medium. Reminiscent of ICO. Definitely worth giving a shot.
  20. Jorgenus
    Dec 14, 2013
    5
    I want to start out with saying I played this game from beginning to end. I was so upset at the ending that I created an account just to write this review. And it is a very good game so hear me out. When I heard of this game I thought I have to buy this. I started playing and I was very impressed. Some of the scenes are some of the best I've seen in a game. As far as game play it suitsI want to start out with saying I played this game from beginning to end. I was so upset at the ending that I created an account just to write this review. And it is a very good game so hear me out. When I heard of this game I thought I have to buy this. I started playing and I was very impressed. Some of the scenes are some of the best I've seen in a game. As far as game play it suits the game well. I think it should be easy to tell an epic story. If you say this game has puzzles then you must consider matching shapes in the correct holes a puzzle game. But still, I think the game play suits this game very well. The sound is fantastic, story leading up to the end is fantastic, visuals are absolutely amazing and only get better the further you travel through this game. But that brings me to why I would still give it a poor review the ending. I can't say exactly why I couldn't stand it without spoiling it. I'm sure I'm in the minority here so chances are if you like what you hear so far you will love the ending. If that's the case, disregard my review and buy the game now. After this point is possibly very mild spoiler. So here it goes. To me the ending is much like ones in popular Chinese movies. Tell a great story and leave you feeling defeated. But what I disliked the most about this ending is not only did it make me feel like I ultimately lost the game, it rubbed my nose in it to remind me. I know this sounds hard to believe but usually I like a story where things could turn out either good or bad and it isn't a cliché Cinderella story. It makes it feel more real. I even knew this game wouldn't end up all roses and was looking forward to it. This game left me staring at the screen saying to myself, what was the point of that. To me, you can't go full negative. Give me a major lesson or some silver lining or a word or two of wisdom so I can walk away with something. The ending was so bitter that the only positive thing that happens actually seems painful. Now I know some people enjoy misery and that's fine. Maybe I'm in left field and the true meaning of this game was lost on me. I just don't like walking away from a story with emptiness. Maybe that was the point. It is just my opinion that the ending didn't match the game well at all. Ultimately I have to say I'm didn't like the game. I know negative reviews are seldom helpful, but hopefully this helps some. Thank you for your time.… Expand
  21. kavilash
    Nov 23, 2013
    10
    awesomeeeeee story!!! adventure games had always been my first priority. animation well done! left a mark deep inside my heart. 505 games developers thank you all. moving in the right direction waiting for a sequel :P
  22. JPRocha14
    Nov 21, 2013
    10
    I think that this game is truly meaningful. I relate myself to Big brother and Little brother's relationship. It is the best story in a game I have played by far. Hope this will get the game more players. My ehole family almost cried at the ending.
  23. AntonieGeerts
    Nov 21, 2013
    10
    Beautiful game. Those first two words are my review, as this game doesn't need any more. Sadly enough Meta Critic cannot understand that somethings are great enough to be summed up in just two words.
  24. jabalazs
    Nov 15, 2013
    10
    It's been a while since I've played a game as complete as this one. Not only it has a stunningly beautiful setting but the gameplay, story and emotional message are noteworthy.
  25. morrae
    Nov 2, 2013
    9
    One of the best titles of the year. I highly recommend it. Visuals are outstanding, story engaging and touching, it manages to be very deep without ever saying a single word. It's not for the kids, since it has some brutal stuff. Art design is one of the best I ever saw (frozen village and battlefield especially stand out). I wish there was more tames like that. The only downfall the gameOne of the best titles of the year. I highly recommend it. Visuals are outstanding, story engaging and touching, it manages to be very deep without ever saying a single word. It's not for the kids, since it has some brutal stuff. Art design is one of the best I ever saw (frozen village and battlefield especially stand out). I wish there was more tames like that. The only downfall the game has it's kinda short. But maybe it's how it supposed to be. Lot's of things happen during this few hours. Check this game out, you will not be disappointed.… Expand
  26. rickywilliams34
    Oct 29, 2013
    9
    I don't normally write reviews, but I felt compelled to write one for this game. I just finished it. If you enjoyed Ico, Journey, Flower, Shadows of the Colossus, or any other game that fits this mold of introspective, yet satisfying adventure/puzzle fantasy games, you've got to check out Brothers. It is an adventure game following two brothers on a quest to heal their sickly father in aI don't normally write reviews, but I felt compelled to write one for this game. I just finished it. If you enjoyed Ico, Journey, Flower, Shadows of the Colossus, or any other game that fits this mold of introspective, yet satisfying adventure/puzzle fantasy games, you've got to check out Brothers. It is an adventure game following two brothers on a quest to heal their sickly father in a fantastical setting with the tracings of Nordic mythology. It really is stunning. Small control kinks were not even worth considering in my score, they were so minor and did not distract from the otherwise well executed design and art style. I tend to judge a game based on if accomplishes what the developers set out to do, and Brother seems to have done that in spades. The only complaint I think that could be fairly lodged at it is the fairly short playtime (I beat it in about 3 hours in two sittings) for the price. But, if you're like me, that's really not a concern when the game reaches such lofty emotional and game play heights. Check it out.… Expand
  27. DavidHGG
    Oct 22, 2013
    10
    Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a beautifully crafted game from its design to the music and everything in between. If you haven't tried it try playing it with a friend sharing one controller. The experience I got from that kind of playing was really intense and enjoyable. I could go on with lots of exclamations of how this was a fresh and moving contribution to the gaming world, butBrothers: A Tale of Two Sons is a beautifully crafted game from its design to the music and everything in between. If you haven't tried it try playing it with a friend sharing one controller. The experience I got from that kind of playing was really intense and enjoyable. I could go on with lots of exclamations of how this was a fresh and moving contribution to the gaming world, but nothing I say would justify it so I'd just like to say Play it!
    The only minor setback was that it could have been a bit longer for an overall bigger experience. This is very minor since the game as a whole will leave you with more than wonder and satisfaction.
    Again I'd like to say Play it, and be ready for a ride!    … Expand
  28. Zoombied
    Sep 24, 2013
    10
    Different in a good way: great aesthetics, innovative controls, a both cosy and scary feeling of fairytale far away from Hollywood. Simply a great game!
  29. StandingCow
    Sep 17, 2013
    10
    This game really tugged on my emotional strings, very sad story... with some happy moments as well. Don't read up on the game or just watch a "Let's play"... you will miss out an a lot of why the emotional impact is so high.
  30. jaybeau1979
    Sep 12, 2013
    10
    Amazing game. Unique control scheme gives this an edge over must other puzzlers. The relationship between the brothers (and with the player) is established so well that I worry about them when the game isn't even on. I'm about 80% finished and can't wait to get to the end. Outstanding on every level.
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Awards & Rankings

13
#13 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2013
26
#26 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2013
36
#36 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 56 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 52 out of 56
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 56
  3. Negative: 0 out of 56
  1. NZGamer
    Oct 21, 2013
    93
    Brothers is a wonderful piece of storytelling and a fantastic puzzle game that’ll make you want to hug a loved one. Highly recommended.
    Read full review
  2. GameOver.gr
    Oct 11, 2013
    90
    A magical journey through the human feelings and the sad sense of loss. "Brothers" is one of those unique games that make the industry proud.
    Read full review
  3. Pelit (Finland)
    Oct 5, 2013
    87
    An excellent action adventure in a beautiful and mysterious fantasy world. The atmospheric story is quite sad. [Sept 2013]
See all critic reviews »