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Review of The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth on Nintendo Switch

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Mar 2017
Cover image of The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth on Switch
Gamefings Score: 9
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 17 Mar 2017
Genre: Roguelike, Action-adventure
Developer: Nicalis
Publisher: Nicalis

Introduction

In the edgy world of indie gaming, few titles grab attention like 'The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth'. Developed by Nicalis under the artistic vision of Edmund McMillen, this rogue-like action-adventure epic rocks a dark, quirky story that involves basement dungeons and projectile tears. Yes, you read that right, projectile tears. Let's dive into this pixelated plunge of emotional turmoil and burst out the details, even if it means shedding a few tears of laughter.

Gameplay

Playing Isaac—or one of his more colorful counterparts—is akin to ordering a mystery box of chaos at your local gaming café. Each time you slide into the game, you're slapped with a new set of randomly generated rooms, enemies, and loot, creating a fresh and wild experience with every dive. The gameplay features elements like permadeath and collectible items, meaning you can take a wild ride one minute, then hit the floor again when you're overrun by locusts or jealous yetis. Players blast through gleefully grotesque creatures using their dear little Isaac's tears as projectiles... because nothing says sweet retribution like shooting your eyeballs at your foes. Coupled with a myriad of items that can affect everything from the character's speed to the types of tears they shoot, the combinations create a complex web of strategy more impressive than your high school's final math exam. What's even better is that you can share your experiences using map seeds, ensuring your friends can witness your cries of both joy and despair as you navigate these twisted labyrinths. Add in a co-op mode where your friends can jump in as loose, tearful side characters, and you've got the recipe for glorious bonding time and plenty of chaotic giggles.

Graphics

Visually, 'The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth' channels its inner 16-bit nostalgia and cranks it up a notch in the style department. Sure, 'cutesy horror' might not be the most commercially viable genre, but it captures a unique aesthetic that leaves a memorable mark. The characters and enemies boast a charming yet creepy design thanks to McMillen's artistic touch. Graphics may not seem groundbreaking compared to today's AAA titles, but they serve the game's atmosphere perfectly—each room is a meticulously crafted pixel hell worthy of your awe and occasional giggle from its creepiness. Match these visuals with a soundtrack that’s fittingly eerie yet catchy, and you’ll find yourself humming along while simultaneously dodging bosses threatening to obliterate you.

Conclusion

'The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth' on Nintendo Switch masterfully mixes emotional storytelling with engaging and varied gameplay. The unique blend of rogue-like mechanics, dark humor, and a plethora of upgrades means you'll never experience the same run twice—just like hoping to find two Skittles of the same color in the bag. Whether you're drawn by the challenge of permadeath, the thrill of upgrading Isaac’s ridiculous abilities, or simply the curiosity to explore the dark, twisted realms below, this game swiftly earns a spot in the library of any self-respecting gamer. With a plethora of expansions such as 'Afterbirth' and 'Repentance', this title guarantees endless hours of delightful chaos. Tear away at those existential fears, because after all, who wouldn’t prefer flinging eyeballs while pondering their place in the universe?

See Latest Prices for The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth on Switch on Amazon

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