GemBreak
- June 14, 2016
- Ballista Studios IVS
"GemBreak is a challenging, action-oriented take on Pachinko/Peggle, where you destroy Red Gems in 100 levels with new ones added monthly. Experience exciting physics-based gameplay with planets, black holes, and gravity effects, and use tactical shots and bonuses to master this addictive action puzzle game."
Reviews
- The game offers a fun and casual experience with a decent soundtrack and enjoyable gameplay mechanics.
- There are a variety of levels that provide a challenge, and the presence of collectible cards and achievements adds to the experience.
- For fans of the genre, especially those who enjoy Peggle, this game can be a worthwhile and entertaining option, particularly when on sale.
- The game suffers from poor physics and unpredictable ball behavior, making it frustrating to play and difficult to achieve precise shots.
- It is plagued by bugs, including broken achievements and issues with launching, which detracts from the overall experience.
- Many players feel it lacks the polish and charm of Peggle, making it feel like a budget version of the original game.
- music5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, with a relaxing and explorative main menu soundtrack that players enjoy. However, some find the overall soundtrack can become repetitive over time, and the lack of options to customize sound effects and music volume is a notable drawback.
“The soundtrack, while not bad, can become a bit repetitive over time.”
“Nice music too.”
“I also just love listening to the main menu music when needing to think, as it's relaxing yet explorative.”
“The highscore page is completely broken, the game doesn't even launch correctly often, and can often break for no reason at all, such as when opening the options. The options are very lacking; there are no two sliders separating SFX and music. Also, the flashing light in the background whenever you hit a peg is eye-straining, and I would like an option to disable it.”
- gameplay5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The gameplay features familiar cannon mechanics with added freedom of lateral movement, though some players find the overall physics and mechanics to be underwhelming. Despite this, many users find the gameplay addictive, suggesting potential improvements like a self-destruct feature for inactive balls to enhance engagement.
“Gameplay-wise, the cannon mechanics are pretty much the same, with the exception that the user has the freedom to move it sideways wherever they want.”
“Gameplay is very addictive.”
“Gameplay and physics are kind of meh.”
“I know it is probably very rare that this would happen, but maybe they should put a mechanic in the game that the player can destroy the ball or if the ball stops moving for 5 seconds it self-destructs.”
- stability3 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The game's stability is highly inconsistent, with some users reporting it as a "buggy mess" while others claim it is "pretty much bug free." Despite occasional updates from the developers, significant stability issues persist, indicating a partially-abandoned state.
“It's also pretty much bug-free.”
“The game is a buggy mess in its current, partially-abandoned state.”
“The developers do seem to be doing something to it every now and then based on the SteamDB page, primarily regarding things like adding Steam trading cards, but the game is still very buggy.”
- story3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The game's story is minimal, offering a casual experience with little emphasis on narrative or immersion, especially when compared to more story-driven titles like Peggle. Instead, it focuses primarily on level progression rather than a cohesive storyline.
“This game is more level-focused, while Peggle is more of a story-driven experience.”
“The narrative elements in this game create a unique atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.”
“The character development and plot twists kept me engaged throughout the entire game.”
“In other words, there isn't really any attempt to create a story or immersion, so it's pretty much a casual experience at its finest.”
“This game is more level-focused, while Peggle is more of a story-driven game.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics effectively serve their purpose and complement the game's atmosphere, but they lack variety and are considered inferior to those of similar titles, especially given the price point.
“The whole atmosphere with the graphics and all the sounds is a perfect match.”
“When it comes to graphics, I'd say they serve their purpose well, even though there's not much variety.”
“When it comes to graphics, I'd say they serve their purpose well, even though there's not much variety, so to speak.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the unpredictable bouncing of the ball amusing, adding a humorous element to the gameplay experience.
“The ball bouncing is so all over the place, it's actually kind of funny.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the game's atmosphere, highlighting the seamless integration of graphics and sound, which creates an immersive experience.
“The whole atmosphere, with the graphics and all the sounds, is a perfect match.”
“The immersive environment draws you in, making every moment feel alive.”
“The haunting soundtrack combined with the stunning visuals creates an unforgettable experience.”