Gundam Breaker 4 Review – Steam Deck, Switch, and PS5 Tested

Gundam Breaker 4: A Deep Dive Review Across Platforms

Back in 2016, the Gundam Breaker series was a niche import title. Now, Gundam Breaker 4 boasts a simultaneous global release on Steam, Switch, PS4, and PS5, marking a significant milestone for Western fans. After 60 hours across multiple platforms, I'm enamored, though a few minor issues persist.

This release is monumental, not just for the game itself, but for the series' accessibility. Gone are the days of importing Asian English releases; Gundam Breaker 4 offers dual audio (English and Japanese) and multiple subtitle options (English, French, Italian, German, Spanish).

The story, while serviceable, isn't the main draw. Early dialogue can feel protracted, but the latter half delivers compelling character reveals and more engaging conversations. Newcomers will be brought up to speed, though the significance of certain characters might be initially unclear. The focus remains on Gunpla customization, combat, and progression.

Customization is unparalleled. Players can adjust individual parts, weapons (including dual-wielding), and even scale, allowing for truly unique Gunpla creations. Builder parts add further customization options, some with unique skills. EX and OP skills, dependent on parts and weapons, enhance combat, further augmented by ability cartridges with various buffs and debuffs.

Missions reward parts, materials for upgrading, and materials to increase part rarity. The game is well-balanced; grinding isn't necessary on normal difficulty. Three higher difficulties unlock later, increasing challenge and part level recommendations. Optional quests, including a fun survival mode, offer additional rewards.

Beyond combat and upgrades, players can customize paint jobs, decals, and weathering effects. The depth of customization is astonishing. Gameplay is consistently engaging, even on normal difficulty. Weapon variety and skill systems keep combat fresh. Boss fights, with their unique introductions and weak point targeting, are a highlight, though one specific fight presented an unexpected challenge due to AI behavior.

Visually, the game is a mixed bag. Environments are initially uninspired, but overall variety is good. Gunpla models and animations are exceptionally well-rendered. The art style, while not realistic, is effective and performs well on lower-end hardware. Music is mostly forgettable, lacking memorable anime tracks. Voice acting, however, is surprisingly excellent in both English and Japanese.

Minor issues include a repetitive mission type and a few bugs (one impacting Steam Deck's title screen loading, another causing a crash in one specific mission). Online multiplayer functionality on PC was unavailable for testing at the time of writing.

The PC port shines with its support for over 60fps, mouse and keyboard controls, and multiple button prompt options. Steam Deck compatibility is excellent, running smoothly with Proton Experimental. While some minor graphical quirks exist, the performance is impressive.

The PS5 version delivers stunning visuals at a locked 60fps, while the Switch version, while playable, suffers from lower resolution, detail, and performance issues, particularly in the assembly and diorama modes.

The DLC included in the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions offers additional parts and diorama content, enhancing the experience. However, the story itself isn't the primary selling point; the gameplay and customization are the true stars.

Overall, Gundam Breaker 4 is a spectacular entry in the series. Minor flaws aside, the exceptional customization, engaging combat, and impressive depth make it a must-have for Gunpla enthusiasts and action game fans alike. My Steam Deck experience was particularly enjoyable.

Gundam Breaker 4 Steam Deck Review: 4.5/5