Gamefings logoimg

Review of Backfirewall on Xbox Series X/S

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Jan 2023
Cover image of Backfirewall on Xbox Series X/S
Gamefings Score: 8
Released: 30 Jan 2023
Genre: Puzzle/Adventure
Developer: Naraven Games
Publisher: All in! Games

Introduction

Welcome to Backfirewall, a game where you can finally embrace your inner digital anarchist! Ever wondered what happens inside your smartphone? Spoiler alert: it's a lot of weirdness and a bit of self awareness! Strap in as we explore puzzles that would make even the sharpest minds take a vacation.

Gameplay

In Backfirewall, you step into the shoes of an update assistant-yes, that's right, we're actually taking a peek inside the convoluted world of smartphone software! Your mission? Sabotage the altruistic OS by breaking the update before it can happen. Think of it as a digital heist, but instead of robbing banks, you're deconstructing apps and dodging existential dread along the way. The core of the gameplay revolves around clever puzzles lush with environmental manipulation. You'll be using intriguing commands that your favorite smartphone contractor-uh, I mean, "game narrator"-feels like would be a great idea for you. Actions like "delete" let you toss out items like a reckless teen clearing their closet, while reversing the gravitational pull on objects will have your brain twisting like a cartoon character on a bad trip! Admittedly, some of these puzzles require a bit more than just a quick glance; you'll need to problem-solve as if you just crashed your party's WiFi setting! Each level throws a unique curveball at you, so don't expect a monotony of cookie-cutter challenges-each room in your imaginary smartphone is packed with a plethora of unique conditions that you'll have to fiddle with to advance. Spoiler: the hint systems, including some wise words from a rubber ducky and the increasingly exasperated OS9, are there to help when your mind goes blank as a 404 error page. For those who'd like to harness their hidden genius, be prepared: mental strain might ensue, but so does the sweet satisfaction of ripping apart virtual functionality and giving your brain a workout in the subcategory of 'being a digital vigilante.' Seriously, if you like to flex your replica Sherlock Holmes cap-this one's for you!

Graphics

Graphically, Backfirewall is as vibrant as a candy-coated device filled with quirky characters-think Tow Mater but with a degree in software development! The colorful aesthetic hits just the right notes of silliness and charm. Each area, from the RAM to the eye-popping battery compartments, is filled with delightful 3D designs that feel alive, albeit a bit frenetic. The attention to detail is commendable; it's like the devs said, 'Let's make a software world where every pixel feels like a caffeinated software engineer's dream!' And guess what? They nailed it! That being said, not all ends of the spectrum came through flawlessly. Some reviewers found parts of the design a bit muddled-like someone mismanaged their app updates and left the visuals feeling jumbled. But let's call that a feature, not a bug!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Backfirewall is a deftly crafted puzzle-adventure that invites players to explore a cheeky narrative while also puzzling out some legitimately challenging conundrums. The skills required include curiosity, critical thinking, and a sprinkle of humor to keep your spirits up during those hair-pulling moments. While it might not be everyone's ideal game (looking at you, fast-paced action and button-mashing addicts), for those who enjoy mental gymnastics, Backfirewall offers an escapade that's both hilarious and engaging. So grab your controller, summon your inner digital guerilla warfare expert, and dive into a world where your smartphone's ineptitude becomes your greatest adventure. Just remember to avoid the factory reset button-those are SO last season!

See Latest Prices for Backfirewall on Xbox Series X/S on Amazon

See Prices for Backfirewall on Xbox Series X/S on Ebay

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Sophie Turner Is Lara Croft — How Tomb Raider's Brutal Skill Ceiling Will Shape Amazon's TV Take'
Hemal Harris - 04 Sep 2025
Sophie Turner will play Lara Croft in Amazon's Tomb Raider series. Here's how the show can capture the games' brutal challenge loo...
image for news article 'Gamescom 2025: From Hornet's Revenge to Gunfights in the Future — The Biggest Reveals, Ranked by Hype (and Probability of Screaming)'
Gemma Looksby - 27 Aug 2025
Gamescom 2025 unleashed release dates, surprises, and enough nostalgia to power a retro arcade. Hollow Knight: Silksong finally la...
image for news article 'From Sidekick to Symptom: An In-Depth Look at How Game Characters Grow (and Break) Over Time'
Tanya Krane - 22 Aug 2025
A witty, in-depth analysis of how video game characters evolve - from antiheroes and companions to tragic villains - and how gamep...
image for news article 'Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Skill Test — How to Survive When Friendly Fire Is A Feature'
Hemal Harris - 22 Aug 2025
Helldivers 2 turns cooperative shooters into a terrifying teamwork exam. From friendly-fire fiascos to stratagem juggling and glob...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus August Drop: Mortal Kombat 1, Spider-Man, Sword of the Sea and Two Resident Evils — Sony’s Buffet of Beatdowns and Beachside Introspection'
Chucky - 22 Aug 2025
Sony's August PlayStation Plus drop mixes Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel's Spider-Man with day-one indie Sword of the Sea, EDF6 co-op ...
image for news article 'Tariff Drama and Console Character Arcs: How the PS5 Price Hike Recasts PlayStation's Story'
Tanya Krane - 21 Aug 2025
Sony just raised PS5 prices in the US - but this is more than a number. We break down the cast, the catalyst (hello, tariffs), and...
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...