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Review of Breakout: Recharged on Nintendo Switch

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Feb 2022
Cover image of Breakout: Recharged on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 10 Feb 2022
Genre: Retro Arcade Action
Developer: Adamvision Studios, SneakyBox
Publisher: Atari, Inc.

Introduction

Ahoy, ye savvy gamers! If you've ever found solace in pixelated nostalgia while dreaming of smashing blocks like it's your job, then strap on your joysticks because 'Breakout: Recharged' is here to sweep you off your feet! This spunky remake of the 1976 classic promises to recapture the magic of bouncing a ball against a wall of bricks - but now, with fancy graphics and power-ups that'll make your head spin. Let's dive in and see if this reboot can stand the test of time or if it's headed straight for the digital dumpster!

Gameplay

Now, those who remember the original 'Breakout' might think the gameplay is simple. Spoiler alert: they're right! You control a paddle, because for some reason, they couldn't afford a proper team of block demolishers. You bounce a ball to smash perforated bricks in a dizzying array of colors. The more bricks you smash, the more points, which is very important because without points, what's the point? (Pun totally intended.) The game introduces a series of levels, which is a nice change from the original's monotonous grind. Your paddle shrinks as you progress, which is a great way to heighten the panic as you try not to lose ball contact. It's almost like being in a relationship - just when you think it's going well, boom! Back to square one. The controls are intuitive whether you're playing handheld or docked, and if you mess up, don't worry; your sheer ability to reset will make you feel like a phoenix rising from the ashes - or at least, a mildly annoyed bird.

Graphics

Visually, 'Breakout: Recharged' is a stunning upgrade that makes the original look like it was scratched onto a cave wall with a rock. The vibrant colors pop like a bag of jelly beans, and the animations are as smooth as butter on toast. The backdrops are reminiscent of candy land, and if there was ever a place to smash bricks without consequences, your childhood dreams would've probably looked like this. Plus, the visual radiance of power-ups zipping across the screen is enough to make you feel like you're powering up your gaming prowess, or at least making you hungry for sweets. Fancy graphics aside, this version does an excellent job of keeping the original spirit alive while simultaneously throwing a rager for your eyeballs. It's like trying to convince your grandmother that makeup can be good; they both at least once had a pretty neat foundation (pun not intended).

Conclusion

'Breakout: Recharged' takes an absolute classic and gives it a slap on the rear end, sending it to ambitious new heights. While the core mechanics remain as addictive as ever, the improvements in graphics, level design, and power-ups bring a refreshing twist to this beloved game. Is it a complete reinvention? Nah, but it doesn't need to be. It's fun, nostalgic, and all in all, the kind of giggle-inducing gameplay that can turn a boring afternoon into hours of block-shattering joy. Whether you're a retro gaming guru or a curious greenhorn looking to enjoy some good old-fashioned fun, this game is worth bouncing into your Switch library. We're giving 'Breakout: Recharged' an adventurous 8 out of 10 - now go smash those bricks and claim your victory!

See Latest Prices for Breakout: Recharged on Switch on Amazon

See Prices for Breakout: Recharged on Switch on Ebay

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