Lillymo Games returns to the brick-breaking genre with Tri Breaker: A Sacred Symbols Odyssey, a sequel that ambitiously builds on its predecessor, Twin Breaker. With its blend of a fun time-traveling narrative, action-packed gameplay, and a healthy dose of retro charm, the game strikes a balance between honoring its roots and experimenting with fresh ideas. We checked it out on a PS5.
Set a decade after Twin Breaker, the story follows Colin and Chris, now retired heroes, as they are reluctantly pulled back into action by a government agent named Dustin. The narrative leans heavily into its sci-fi themes, diving into the consequences of their previous mission while exploring the manipulation of time. While the dialogue and story-driven approach may appeal to fans of Sacred Symbols and narrative-driven gaming, and we enjoyed it a lot, it might come across as overly verbose for those seeking a straightforward arcade experience.
Gameplay is where Tri Breaker truly seeks to stand out. Its core brick-breaking mechanics remain intact but are significantly enhanced by new gameplay elements. The introduction of time-themed mechanics, such as stages that dynamically evolve as you play, adds a layer of unpredictability and challenge. Boss battles provide variety, breaking up the standard stages with encounters that demand precision and strategy. However, while these additions inject freshness into the genre, they sometimes disrupt the pacing, making the game feel uneven at times.
The controls are responsive and intuitive, though the more complex mechanics can be overwhelming, especially for players unfamiliar with the genre. Tutorials and prompts help bridge the gap, but there’s still a learning curve to mastering the (otherwise rewarding) new mechanics. On the PlayStation 5, the DualSense features are subtly utilized, adding a tactile element that complements the gameplay without feeling overdone.
Visually, Tri Breaker leans into its retro aesthetic with vibrant pixel art and detailed backgrounds that reflect the different time periods. The designs are eye-catching but can sometimes feel cluttered, especially during more chaotic stages. The soundtrack, composed of retro-inspired tracks, fits the gameplay perfectly, though it doesn’t break new ground compared to similar titles. The inclusion of voiceovers for key story moments adds a nice touch, enhancing the game’s narrative ambitions.
While Tri Breaker succeeds in pushing the boundaries of what a brick-breaking game can be, it’s not without its flaws. The story-heavy approach, while engaging for some, might not resonate with players looking for pure arcade fun. Additionally, the difficulty spikes and occasional (initial) lack of clarity in certain mechanics can lead to moments of frustration.
Overall, Tri Breaker: A Sacred Symbols Odyssey is a bold and creative evolution of its predecessor and genre. By blending narrative depth with experimental gameplay mechanics, it offers a unique twist on the brick-breaking formula. Fans of the genre and Sacred Symbols will find much to enjoy, while others may find its ambition both a strength and a hurdle.
Score: 8.1/10
Press Play Media 