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Bound

Undeniably beautiful and mesmerizing, Bound invites you to find meaning in its vague but powerful story. The gameplay beneath falls short of greatness.
Bound Game Cover
76%Game Brain Score
Most mentioned positive aspects:gameplay, graphics
76% User Score Based on 57 reviews
Critic Score 69%Based on 19 reviews

Platforms

PlayStation VRPlaystation 4Virtual RealityPlayStation
Bound Game Cover

About

Bound is a single player platformer game with fantasy, drama and mystery themes. It was developed by Plastic and was released on August 16, 2016. It received mostly positive reviews from both critics and players.

Bound is a 3D platformer designed for people with the desire to concentrate on the narrative side of games and experience a mature story. On the other side of the spectrum, Bound is also being prepared for hardcore gamers looking for the challenge of one big puzzle that can be only solved by a community of players working together.

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76%Audience ScoreBased on 57 reviews
gameplay3 positive mentions

  • Bound features stunning artwork and a unique artistic vision that captivates players.
  • The game offers a deep and emotionally charged narrative that resonates with fans of exploration titles.
  • Excellent audio work enhances the overall experience, making it a compelling artistic journey.
  • Platforming mechanics are sub-par and lack the challenge that many players expect from the genre.
  • Camera controls can be frustrating and detract from the overall gameplay experience.
  • Some players may find the gameplay directionless and lacking in meaningful challenges.
  • gameplay

    6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay in "Bound" is often described as lacking depth, with oversimplified puzzles and a frustrating camera, which may disappoint players seeking a more engaging experience. However, its well-implemented movement and speed mechanics, combined with a strong emotional focus, can still provide enjoyment for those who appreciate aesthetic over complexity. Overall, while the gameplay may not be its strongest aspect, it offers a unique experience that some players may find worthwhile.

    • “There isn't a reason not to try Bound, and although its heavy emotional focus might not be for everyone, its well-implemented movement and speed mechanics will surely be enough to keep even the most stone-hearted player entertained.”
    • “Almost everything about the game is beautiful and unique, and if you find yourself enjoying games where gameplay takes a back seat to aesthetic, then you might want to think about picking up Bound.”
    • “Lackluster gameplay, frustrating camera.”
    • “Oversimplified puzzles, barebones gameplay.”
  • graphics

    5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of the game are widely praised for their beautiful and unique aesthetic, featuring stunning artwork, impressive animations, and a captivating abstract art style. Many reviewers highlight the visuals as a key aspect of the experience, often suggesting that the game's aesthetic takes precedence over gameplay. Overall, the combination of excellent audio and visuals contributes to a deep and engaging narrative.

    • “Almost everything about the game is beautiful and unique, and if you find yourself enjoying games where gameplay takes a back seat to aesthetics, then you might want to think about picking up Bound.”
    • “[beautiful, abstract art style, impressive animations, elegant narrative]”
    • “[stunning artwork and colors, deep story, unique concept]”
  • story

    5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story of "Bound" is praised for its beauty and depth, featuring a compelling and mysterious narrative that invites players to find meaning within its unique and imaginative concepts. The game's stunning visuals and audio enhance the storytelling experience, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that captivates players. Overall, the blend of narrative and gameplay elements contributes to a rich and engaging story.

    • “Undeniably beautiful and mesmerizing, Bound invites you to find meaning in its vague but powerful story.”
    • “Stunning environments, strange concepts handled beautifully, compelling and mysterious story, blend of narrative and speed focus.”
    • “Excellent audio and visuals, deep, streamlined camera mode, intriguing plot line.”
    • “The story is convoluted and leaves too many unanswered questions, making it frustrating to follow.”
    • “Character development is lacking, and the plot feels disjointed and unengaging.”
    • “While the visuals are stunning, the narrative fails to deliver a compelling experience.”
  • emotional

    2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The emotional aspect of the game resonates strongly with fans of narrative-driven experiences, akin to titles like "Gone Home," though it may not appeal to those seeking a more traditional platforming experience. While its heavy emotional focus may not suit all players, the engaging movement and speed mechanics can still captivate even the most indifferent gamers.

    • “Fans of emotionally charged titles like 'Gone Home' will be satisfied with what's on offer here – but those looking for a quality platformer may want to dance with something a little more competent in that department.”
    • “There isn't a reason not to try 'Bound', and although its heavy emotional focus might not be for everyone, its well-implemented movement and speed mechanics will surely be enough to keep even the most stone-hearted player entertained.”
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Frequently Asked Questions

Bound is a platformer game with fantasy, drama and mystery themes.

Bound is available on PlayStation 4, Virtual Reality, PlayStation VR and PlayStation.

Bound was released on August 16, 2016.

Bound was developed by Plastic.

Bound has received mostly positive reviews from both players and critics. Most players liked Bound for its gameplay.

Bound is a single player game.

Similar games include Keeper, RiME, Contrast, INSIDE, Forgotton Anne and others.