Bomberman Live: Battlefest

Xbox Live Arcade

If ever there’s a game franchise that follows the “if it aint broke, don’t fix it” philosophy, it’s Bomberman. Of course there have been changes here and there, but the core of the game has remained true: strategic and well-timed bomb placements. Some out there may feel tired of that, and for sure the biggest problem with this game is that it doesn’t feel any different than its predecessors. But if you are in love with the gameplay and want some new level designs, or have never tried the game and looking for a good one to get into with friends, family, or online, and family, than Bomberman Live: Battlefest is a great choice.

The premise of the game is simple. Each level supports up to eight players on a grid. Natural or artificial obstacles stand in the way, and the player who can bomb their way to their enemies first and kills them wins. Most environments are not static and require even more strategy from you. For example, the layout can change in an instant, meaning the more you play, the more you’ll understand just when or how it will change. There are 15 different maps in total, all with their own unique gimmick, apart from the classic and giant arena. 

Battlefest keeps things fresh with some new game modes, like Capture the Flag. There’s still the classic deathmatch mode, but one of the more enjoyable one is VIP. Here you are put in teams, and each side is told of a specific player they are set to kill. It’s fun trying to see who the enemy team is targeting, and how you can get to your target without making it seem so obvious. Like all other Bomberman games, a level is quick, making it a great game to play in a hurry or to kill some time. Even online matches only take a few minutes to complete.

It’s the Deathmatch mode, however, that will have you returning more and more to play. When creating a match, there are so many customizable features and powers that every game can feel different. You can also set how many rounds need to be won rather than having to go back to the main screen all the time. As you play there are both power-ups and power-downs that affect the power of your bomb explosions.

A neat little feature that makes the game that much more fun is the ability to customize the look of your bomberman. With eight tiny bombers all running around, it can be a little bit of a problem picking out your guy when everyone looks the same. Plus, there are some costumes worthy of a chuckle.  Much of the wardrobe and head & body designs come straight from the original Bomberman Live, but Battlefest comes packed with 18 new customizable features, like Napoleon Bombparte’s Famous Hat. To top it all off, you can bomb away with your Xbox avatar.

So long as you don’t go into this game expecting hugely groundbreaking Bomberman material, you’ll be satisfied with the gameplay. It’s a great way to have some fun if you’re bored. The $10 price tag is well worth it.