Arcanbreak

70%
Game Brain Score Based on 24 reviews
  • story
  • gameplay
  • graphics
Arcanbreak Game Cover
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A short story-driven game about two inquisitors, Arun and Quila, investigating a murder. During the game you'll control both, each having their own set of skills you'll need to solve the mystery.

  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

70%
Audience ScoreBased on 24 reviews
story10 positive mentions
music3 negative mentions
  • Engaging story with intriguing characters and a unique dual-character mechanic that enhances gameplay.
  • Well-designed pixel art and a dark, atmospheric soundtrack that complements the mystery theme.
  • Quick loading times and smooth controls, making for a generally enjoyable experience despite its short length.
  • Very short gameplay, typically taking only 1-2 hours to complete, which may leave players wanting more.
  • Several bugs and issues, including a problematic user interface and plot holes that detract from the overall experience.
  • Limited replay value and lack of windowed mode, which could hinder accessibility for some players.
  • story26 mentions

    The game's story is praised for its intriguing narrative, character switching, and a blend of detective elements, creating a rich and engaging experience. While it sets up a larger plot and offers a creative backdrop, some players feel it suffers from pacing issues and plot holes, leaving certain threads unresolved. Overall, it is recommended for fans of story-driven games, with anticipation for a sequel that promises to expand on its universe.

    • “I really liked everything about this game, the story, the two playable characters, the little alchemy puzzles, and the pixel art.”
    • “Their investigation leads them to finding out more about the murderer as well as a more underhanded plot that might just put the whole city in jeopardy.”
    • “The story was intriguing, and it does start off with a bit of narration about the world.”
    • “The writing suffers from plot holes.”
    • “I think it's too much information for a game this short, but if this game is to be treated as a side story connected to a much larger game universe, then it works in that sense.”
    • “You get a big important task for a huge world, but instead of concluding a story audiences already know, it presents a plot that remains to be seen.”
  • gameplay13 mentions

    The gameplay of *arcanbreak* is a point-and-click experience that allows players to choose between two characters, each offering unique interactions and insights into the game's lore. The controls are smooth, and the mechanics encourage exploration and experimentation, enhancing the overall experience. However, the game is relatively short, making it less appealing for those seeking extended gameplay.

    • “As for the gameplay, the controls felt smooth, and I liked clicking on the items and reading up on the lore and such.”
    • “I particularly liked the mechanic of how choosing which inquisitor to play as also affected what can or cannot be observed and interacted with within the surroundings.”
    • “The point & click gameplay involves switching characters competent in different skills while exploring the location.”
    • “If you're someone who would like to get more gameplay for the full price (5.99 USD) but would still like to try this, I recommend waiting for a sale.”
    • “Not recommended if you are looking for more than 1 hour of gameplay.”
    • “This is a prologue to the actual game which serves to introduce us to the game's setting and premise while getting the hang of Arcanbreak's mechanics.”
  • graphics7 mentions

    The graphics are characterized by appealing pixel art reminiscent of RPG Maker games, with a unique aesthetic that blends elements of Kingdom Hearts and Bloodborne. While generally well-received, some users noted that the game could benefit from additional save file options and graphics optimization. Overall, the visual presentation is enjoyable and enhances the game's intriguing plot and world.

    • “The design reminds me of RPG Maker games and is presented in pleasant-to-the-eye pixel graphics.”
    • “I really enjoyed the graphic part of this prologue and am looking forward to experiencing the world of the upcoming game.”
    • “There's a Kingdom Hearts meets Bloodborne aesthetic here, which I'm all for.”
    • “The overall graphics are fine.”
    • “Could benefit from one or two more save files, and some graphics optimization.”
  • music2 mentions

    The soundtrack features a limited number of tracks that effectively complement the game's mystery and dark themes, enhancing the ominous atmosphere and motivating players to continue their investigation.

    • “The soundtrack features a few tracks, but they fit well with the overall mystery and dark theme.”
    • “The dark lighting and ominous music create a sense that something sinister is brewing in town, which motivates players to stay engaged with the case.”
    • “The soundtrack is limited, which detracts from the overall experience.”
    • “The music feels repetitive and fails to enhance the atmosphere of the game.”
    • “While the ominous tones are intended to create tension, they often become monotonous and uninspired.”
  • optimization2 mentions

    The game's optimization is generally positive, enhancing gameplay through the collection of story elements and magic techniques. However, players feel it could improve with additional save file options and better graphics optimization.

    • “The game could benefit from one or two more save files, and some graphics optimization.”
    • “It is nice that this game provides the possibility of collecting pieces of the background story and the performance of magic's technique - the stated points managed to set up a more enjoyable type of gameplay than it would have been with the possibility of simply collecting and using various objects without combining them.”
  • humor1 mentions

    Reviewers note that while there are some new humorous references, the removal of casual and lighthearted elements has diminished the game's overall charm and appeal.

  • atmosphere1 mentions

    The atmosphere is characterized as dreary, suggesting a somber and bleak environment that may impact the overall experience of the game.

    • “The atmosphere is dreary.”
    • “The game lacks any sense of immersion, making it feel lifeless.”
    • “The overall ambiance is dull and uninspired.”
  • character development1 mentions

    Character development is noted for its appealing designs, though the depth of character growth and narrative progression may not be as emphasized in the reviews.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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