Devolver Digital, known for supporting incredible indie games, has once again managed to strike gold with its latest game. Gunbrella, the latest creation from doinksoft, is a grungy noir-punk action-adventure that takes you on a journey through a world teetering on the brink of collapse.
Gunbrella casts you into the rugged boots of a lumberjack seeking revenge in an unfamiliar town. Armed with the Gunbrella, a high-powered firearm cleverly disguised as an umbrella, you embark on a winding investigation filled with twists and turns.
Without spoiling any elements of the narrative itself, Gunbrella‘s narrative hooks are set deep, immediately capturing your attention and refusing to let go. Fortunately, my playthrough of Gunbrella offered far more than just a compelling story; it was an immersive journey into a world where intrigue and action collide to create an unforgettable experience.
“The Gunbrella offers an array of possibilities.”
At the heart of the combat is the trusty Gunbrella. Despite being the only weapon in the game, it’s undoubtedly the star of the show, doubling as a tool for traversing the game’s world. Its unique maneuverability allows you to glide, swing, dash, and dive through the game world. With a bit of practice, you’ll be soaring across the screen effortlessly.
Despite being the only weapon in the game, the Gunbrella proves to be a versatile tool for combat. You can use different ammo types like grenades and shotgun pellets, making it the ultimate weapon for any situation. From precise platforming jumps to grinding on ropes while blasting enemies below, the Gunbrella offers an array of possibilities. And did I mention it can block bullets? It’s a gameplay mechanic that packs a punch and is easily one of the best parts of the game.
Progression in Gunbrella hinges on gathering gears and currency, both vital for upgrading your arsenal and procuring supplies from shops. Gears allow you to fine-tune your Gunbrella, enhancing damage output or reload speed. Currency, used for acquiring items like health packs and alternative ammunition, enriches the gameplay experience by encouraging exploration and defeating enemies to bolster your coffers.
“Gunbrella’s charm extends beyond the central storyline.”
Gunbrella excels in maintaining diversity in its adversaries. From dismantling a sinister cult that abducts citizens to clashing with creatures dwelling in the murky sewers below, the game ensures a rich tapestry of challenges. Each boss encounter blends perfectly with the grungy atmosphere and feels solely unique. Some enemies are harder than others, but none proved to be overly difficult.
The world of Gunbrella is a captivating mosaic of decrepit small towns linked by a barely functional train system. Each locale boasts a meticulous design and a peculiar cast of characters, flawlessly complementing the gritty ambience. Every interaction propels the narrative forward, ensuring your time is always invested in meaningful exchanges.
Gunbrella‘s charm extends beyond the central storyline with engaging side quests. Even in the first few hours, you encounter optional missions in each town, some offering multiple potential outcomes. Engaging in impromptu conversations with characters may lead to unanticipated twists, like bumping into someone later at a bar with surprising propositions. These unexpected turns infuse depth and replayability into the game, enhancing the overall experience.
The sole hiccup I encountered was related to full-screen mode on an ultrawide monitor. I couldn’t move the mouse cursor to the screen’s edges, which hampered my ability to navigate and engage with enemies effectively. Fortunately, I resolved this issue simply by switching to 1080p resolution.
Considering the enthralling narrative, dynamic gameplay, and captivating world it delivers, Gunbrella is worth every penny. At the low price of US$14.99 /Â AU$21.95, I wholeheartedly recommend it to gaming enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable experience.
*Disclaimer: Reviewed on PC; code was provided by the Publisher.
