Astrogon’s latest release, ABRISS – Build to Destroy, developed by Randwerk, arrives on the PlayStation 5 after gaining traction on other platforms in 2023. This atmospheric physics-destruction building game offers a unique twist to the puzzle genre, enticing players with the tantalizing prospect of constructing elaborate structures only to gleefully demolish them in spectacular fashion thanks to a great visual and physics engine.
Set against a backdrop of digital-brutalist cityscapes, ABRISS invites players to indulge their destructive instincts while flexing their creative muscles. The premise is elegantly simple: assemble a variety of parts to craft structures designed to obliterate specified targets. Each level presents a fresh challenge, with players tasked with devising innovative solutions using an ever-changing array of components, from thrusters and rotators to bombs and ultra-heavy cubes.
The game’s campaign mode spans seven worlds, each comprising several meticulously crafted stages. As players progress, they unlock new parts and encounter diverse environmental mechanics that add depth to the gameplay. Whether meticulously planning each move or embracing chaos as you experiment with different ideas as you go along, ABRISS offers a spectacle that captivates from start to finish – one where even failure can be interesting and fun to watch.
One of the game’s standout features is its complex destruction system, which seamlessly simulates physics and delivers breathtaking visual effects without compromising performance – despite its deceptively simple premise it really feels next gen. Watching structures crumble into thousands of debris particles is a visually mesmerizing experience, further enhanced by the game’s immersive audio design, inviting you to watch replay after replay of your destructive creations.
In addition to the campaign, ABRISS offers sandbox and endless modes, providing players with endless opportunities to unleash their creativity and compete for high scores. The inclusion of a photo mode allows players to capture and share their most exhilarating moments of destruction, adding a social dimension to the gameplay experience.
However, ABRISS is not without its minor flaws. Some players may find the controls slightly cumbersome, particularly when fine-tuning intricate constructions – making your journey from idea to execution rather long at times. Additionally, while the game’s visual and auditory elements are undeniably impressive, the lack of a compelling narrative may leave some players yearning for more depth or guidance.
Nevertheless, ABRISS – Build to Destroy stands as a great achievement in the puzzle genre, offering a unique and visually stunning experience that is as addictive as it is satisfying. With its blend of innovative mechanics, engaging gameplay, and gorgeous visuals, ABRISS becomes a digital playground like no other.
Score: 8.0/10
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