We have another batch of reviews for the colorful and dynamically narrated action-rpg Bastion, confirming the enthusiastic reception Supergiant Games’ debut title has received so far.
Blistered Thumbs, 9/10.
Bastion is a remarkable accomplishment, one that is made all the more impressive by the fact that it is only the first title to be released by Supergiant Games. From story to gameplay to graphics to sound, everything comes together in Bastion to make it more than just a well made game, but one that stands as a high water mark for artistic accomplishment within the medium. That it does all this without sacrificing an iota of fun or accessibility in its gameplay makes this accomplishment only all the more astounding. Even owners of 360 who do not normally consider themselves fans of the action-RPG genre owe it to themselves to give Bastion a chance. I have played through Bastion three times from start to finish over the course of this review and the game feels just as fresh and engaging to me now as it did when I began. This is a rich, full featured title that can easily stand head and shoulders with its far more expensive AAA brethren and one that, at fifteen dollars, is one the best deals currently available in video games. To put it simply, Bastion easily stands as one of the best gaming experiences I have had this year.
RPGFan, 89%.
Quite simply, Bastion is a game with lots of character and precious few flaws. Any fan of old-school action RPGs would be remiss not to play this game. If every title released had Bastion’s sense of newness and adventure, the gaming world would be even better than it already is.
Game Shark, A.
It says a lot for a (little) XBLA RPG to be able to hold its own sitting next to Batman: Arkham City, as it did in the Warner Bros. Booth at E3 in June. Now we know why: Bastion is something special, clearly made with love and oodles of talent. Here’s to one of the very best games of the summer downloadable or otherwise.
GamingUnion, 9/10.
Bastion is an endlessly impressive game posing as a simple action RPG. The narration, combat, mechanics, aesthetics and story all feel carefully planned and equally poured over, creating a surprisingly deep and unique experience, one unlike anything else out there. This also makes Bastion an extremely player-friendly game that constantly presents clever ideas and choices where you wouldn’t expect them. Budding game designers should look no further than Bastion for inspiration.
The Next Level, 5/5.
What is truly remarkable is what Bastion goes beyond: I believe even when your time playing this game has long passed you will find that it carries a powerful and unshakeable grasp in your memories. Its greatest strengths extend far beyond what we consider a good game, making it an once-in-a-lifetime experience. I admit these are very strong words, but in the 27 years I’ve been able to hold a controller in my hand, there really hasn’t been anything like Bastion before. So, yes, I will use all of the most glowing words of praise I tend to avoid when describing a video game. It is an astounding achievement, phenomenal, and – why, yes – I’ll even call it art. This is more than just a great game that you should play, it is required, which is the highest praise I could ever give.
Vivid Gamer, 9.5/10.
Bastion is easily one of my favorite experiences in the arcade this year. It sets a good pace not only with items unlocked, but on secrets revealed. The gameplay is solid, and the worlds are lush and beautifully detailed. Supergiant games has definitely hit a home run with their first outing, and I look forward to whatever they’re working on next. While many gamers will be scared off at the $15 price tag, you’re really getting your money’s worth here. While the story isn’t the longest I’ve seen in RPGs (roughly 5-6 hrs) it definitely was one of the most memorable. This was a great way to start the 2011 Summer of Arcade, and hopefully the rest of the games can deliver as well.
Sestren, 9.5/10.
There are a lot of things that make Bastion a unique gem that you must add to your Xbox Live Arcade library. You owe it to yourself to at least check it out. It truly is a wonderful experience.
PixlBit, 5/5.
If there’s a title that has delighted me the most in at least this year, it is Bastion. The game’s rich story meshes perfectly with the narrator’s voice and pace. The narrator’s words flow with the music as the kid explores lands and battles enemies. The enemies can be fought through a number of different customization options. The entire game is a solid package, where each element of the title layers on to the one before it in an awe-inspiring manner. Bastion stands a tier above most titles in its generation.
Horrible Night, 5/5.
There are a lot more things I could and want to discuss, but I want people to experience them first hand. I haven’t even mentioned the art style, which is gorgeous. Upon seeing only the title screen for the first time, my wife (who isn’t a big gamer) said (Wow this game is beautiful.) The music is another absolute standout and people (including JDevL and myself) have been clamoring for a soundtrack to be released. There are also a couple of late game moments that I absolutely loved and wished I had more time with, but that is really the only complaint I can muster. The collecting of the monument pieces might seem like an old video game cliche but it works within the well crafted Bastion storyline. Supergiant Games has made a beautiful entry into the world of video games and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us next.
WhatCulture!, 5/5.
Bastion achieves the video game holy grail and manages to intertwine story and gameplay seamlessly. In fact the whole experience is so lovingly crafted it is difficult to find fault there within. Next time around one hopes Bastion’s success allows for more great story, more twists, maybe some co op but really just more of the same would be enough for many.
If you don’t like Bastion it will be for a specific reason, such as the narrator or the fiction, but if you don’t mind a game that tries to tell a story Bastion has a lot to offer.
TIME Techland, 9.2/10.
You’re getting a lot of game for $15 (or in Redmond-speak, 1200 Microsoft points). The story mode clocks in at about 20 hours, with plenty of arena missions on the side for replayability. After you finish Story Mode, you can go at it again in New Game+, which lets you bring all your beefed-up stats and weapons along.
411mania, 8.7/10.
Overall, Bastion offers a great experience, even if the dynamic narration is a bit of smoke and mirrors. The gameplay is simple yet effective, and the plot is interesting to follow. The game is a solid start to the Summer of Arcade promotion.
