Brandnew Boy Review

Dave Cook

Brandnew Boy manages to bring the hack 'n' slash genre - tricky combos and all - onto the iPad. Find out how in our review.

Published on Jul 20, 2012

The hack n’ slash genre has been around for many years, but it’s failed to really work on iPhone or iPad. Part of the problem is in control, and the lack of both buttons and analogue sticks.

However, Brandnew Boy features a control system that is both suited to the simplicity of screen taps and swipes, yet delivers the depth that the genre is known for.

Set in a wacky world where you, a boy with no memories, must battle his way to the truth behind his past. The game looks absolutely gorgeous running in Unreal Engine 3.

Moving around the lush world is simple, as you just tap to move to a spot and tap again to stop. When you encounter enemies in the field, simply tap to engage them and tap in time with the battle gauge to string together hard-hitting, death defying combos.

When normal attacks won’t do, you can tap special move icons to really dish out pain and keep your combo meter flowing. Victory rewards you with money that can be spent on new weapons, outfits and skills, expanding your combo tree significantly.

The depth on offer is absolutely superb, bolstered by the fact that even the most intricate of combos can be executed by tapping with one finger. It’s a formula many have tried, but that none have nailed so flawlessly.

Score Breakdown

Graphics

9.0 / 10

Sound

8.0 / 10

Gameplay

8.0 / 10

Longevity

7.0 / 10

Multiplayer

N/A / 10

Overall