Burning Branch
- August 7, 2024
- MoonTouched
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"Burning Branch" is an action rogue-like game where players hack and slash their way through unique bosses in a miniature animal inhabited world. The goal is to reach a colossal tree and uncover the reason behind the journey, while combining uniquely forged weapons and magic to become stronger. The world is filled with various creatures, some of which can be befriended or annoyed, adding depth to the game's story and setting.
PC
Steam Deck
Windows
Reviews
- The art style is exceptional, with beautiful visuals and character designs that enhance the overall experience.
- The gameplay is fun and engaging, with fluid combat mechanics that provide a sense of accomplishment as players improve.
- The story is deep and well-crafted, featuring interesting characters and themes that resonate with diverse audiences.
- The game currently lacks content, with limited playable characters and bosses, which may leave players wanting more.
- Some animations are rough around the edges, and the combat can feel rigid due to the inability to cancel certain actions.
- As an early access title, it has typical hiccups that require polish, including sound design and dialogue delivery.
- story35 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 51 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The game's story is praised for its strong themes, compelling characters, and engaging narrative, though some players note that it feels short, with significant progression achieved after just one run. The art and cutscenes enhance the storytelling, particularly highlighting the journey of the nonbinary protagonist, Sen, whose rescue mission adds depth to the plot. Overall, the story is described as dark and emotionally impactful, leaving players eager for more content in future updates.
“The game has a nice price, nice combat to learn, variety of bonuses, wonderful art, a story that is being built with great skill and has a heavy and dark air, something already mastered by the author.”
“Seeing each cutscene play is a pleasant surprise as the game moves both art and viewpoint to show off the liveliness of its main character, the nonbinary mouse Sen, whose passion for their rescue mission drives the story.”
“The dialogue is also nicely written, there is an interesting story with interesting characters, and I can't wait to progress it in order to see more of it.”
“Story is a bit short as of now (at the time of review you're basically done with story progression after the first finished run), but I'm loving what's here so far.”
“But it's got one incredibly horrifying story.”
“It seems like a love story at first.”
- gameplay18 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 28 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay is described as fun and engaging, featuring a solid "one more run" loop typical of roguelikes, with basic yet well-executed mechanics reminiscent of souls-like games. Players appreciate the balance and challenge, alongside the game's beautiful art style and music, although some note that the content feels limited at launch. Overall, it is considered an enjoyable experience that showcases the potential of a new developer.
“At the time of writing, I have finished chapter one, and have already fallen deep into the 'one more run' gameplay loop that I love in roguelikes.”
“The surprisingly moving music, gorgeous visual backdrops, and tight gameplay all come together in an impressively cohesive and enjoyable experience, making a definitive hidden gem of an early access game from a new developer.”
“The gameplay that follows this is some classic boss-rushing, roll-dodging, sword-dancing action that locks down the fundamentals rather quickly.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received high praise for their stunning art style and detailed presentation, which many players find captivating and engaging. Reviewers highlight the visual aesthetics as a standout feature, elevating the overall experience and contributing to the game's addictive gameplay. Overall, the art direction is celebrated as a key element that enhances both the enjoyment and immersion in the game.
“The visuals and style are fantastic, with enough story to satisfy one invested in the plot.”
“Burning Branch is a classy roguelike that easily slips me into that essential 'just-one-more-run' rhythm, and keeps me there with its slick presentation of its wondrous and subtly detailed art style and world.”
“While the game's art could certainly stand on its own, the execution of that art is what elevates the game's visuals from solid to fun and interesting.”
- music6 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is described as surprisingly moving and beautifully complements the art and character design, creating a cohesive and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers highlight its ability to enhance the game's gloomy setting without being overwhelming, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience.
“The surprisingly moving music, gorgeous visual backdrops, and tight gameplay all come together in an impressively cohesive and enjoyable experience, making a definitive hidden gem of an early access game from a new developer.”
“The art, character design, and music work together well, making the setting feel gloomy but not overwhelmingly so.”
“Great music!”
- character development2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development is enhanced by the cohesive integration of art, character design, and music, which collectively create a suitably gloomy atmosphere that complements the narrative without becoming oppressive.
