Breakdown

 Xbox
  • Publisher: Namco
  • Release Date: Mar 16, 2004
Metascore
71

Mixed or average reviews - based on 62 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 62
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 62
  3. Negative: 4 out of 62
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  1. GameSpot AU
    40
    Breakdown is exactly what it says on the box - a game with a broken engine.
  2. GameCritics
    35
    With flat, repetitive environments and uninspiring combat, Breakdown doesn't have much to recommend it.
  3. Game Revolution
    33
    That’s just about all Breakdown has going for it: a genuinely good sci-fi story. But even that gets overpowered by numerous gameplay flaws, from the unconvincing AI and crummy fragging to the boring environments and irritating pacing.
  5. NTSC-uk
    30
    A fairly awful experience with just a literal handful of inspired moments, and since these moments are so heavily scripted, you are better off just watching videos of it instead. [JPN Import]

Awards & Rankings

90
#90 Best Xbox Game of 2004
30
#30 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2004
75
#75 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2004

User Reviews

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User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 30 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 30
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 30
  3. Negative: 4 out of 30
  1. Mastuda5555
    Sep 21, 2014
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. I'm probably biased because of nostalgia and having played it when I was 14. The story is so deep andOne of the best games I've ever played. I'm probably biased because of nostalgia and having played it when I was 14. The story is so deep and confusing which I loved. Threw in some unexpected plot twists that didn't feel cliche at all to me even now as a somewhat jaded adult when it comes to cliches. Looking back the fighting controls were a bit choppy and could really screw you over on the hardest mode. The graphics were top notch for the time it came out and I think still hold up fairly decently, but they could have done a little more interesting level designs. Some of them were cool, but there was a lot of sameness. They set it up for a sequel though and that sequel never came! I try to look at the fact the they never went ahead with a sequel as a good thing because at least this way there is no chance of the game being tarnished for me. It will forever remain a classic in my eyes. Even though it has some flaws. I'm giving it a 10 because it holds a special place in my gaming memories.… Full Review »
  2. Ponstory_Games
    Sep 22, 2013
    10
    The word "innovative" has lost its meaning over the years because quality in games is judged by subjective elements like "graphics," "sound,"The word "innovative" has lost its meaning over the years because quality in games is judged by subjective elements like "graphics," "sound," and "replay value." But Breakdown is a masterpiece for all the right reasons, and in the areas where it needs work, you can't blame it because it's already doing so much at once. For the gamer who doesn't see quality in Breakdown's well-designed and unique enemies, its set-piece moments that radically change level structure and narrative flow, the unique real-time first-person fighting mechanics, the super powers (like the ability to slow time to a crawl, jump incredibly high, and sweep rooms with sonic blasts), or the intricately designed time-travel plot, at least play the game for the subjective reasons reviewers themselves present to you as incentive to play: Breakdown was one of the first of its kind to utilize motion capture, and indeed it was used to great effect with each and every character; the game is also very difficult, even on the ''easiest'' setting (which seems to garner attention these days, since most games are simply too easy, which holds the player back from using everything at his/her disposal); lastly, it actually has a soundtrack that's heart-pounding, eerie, and anticipant at all the right moments. There is no game in existence that is more deserving of a sequel than Breakdown; if it got the recognition it deserves, the result would be a truly fulfilling franchise.… Full Review »
  3. MercurousSnake
    Jul 29, 2014
    10
    Honestly one of the greatest experiences I've had. Yes the game has many faults but this game so much innovation during its time. It's hadHonestly one of the greatest experiences I've had. Yes the game has many faults but this game so much innovation during its time. It's had that it was extremely underrated title. Would have loved to have seen a sequel to this franchise. The story alone had me glued to my old CRT TV for HOURS! Man do I miss this game I need to buy an Xbox now XD… Full Review »
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