It’s still a poignant, haunting experience that challenges the traditional notions of gaming while presenting its own compelling gameplay. Braid also all the more relevant in today’s gaming world – one where video game budgets continue to balloon to absurd heights. Where some of the most relevant platformers are the dynasties and franchises – the Marios and Sonics of the world (no disrespect, of course). An industry where small and/or relatively unknown teams can still find absurd measures of breakout success.

"Braid is the story of Tim, an unassuming man who wants to find the Princess, ideally, save her from a monster and make up for a mistake he made."

Developed and published by Thekla Inc, Braid Anniversary Edition isn’t just a re-release – it offers gorgeous new visuals and backgrounds with higher-resolution art, updated sound effects and a more extensive soundtrack. There’s the option to switch between the original and updated visuals, and it really can’t be overstated how gorgeous the latter appears. Whether it’s the new foliage in environments, painted lights and shadows, improved effects for actions, improved animations or the extensive attention to detail, the graphical update is impressive all on its own. Suffice it to say that it runs incredibly well with no hiccups.

That’s not all, as new options like Speedruns (either for individual worlds or the whole game) and heaps of developer commentary are also included. It’s a lot to unpack, yet it would all be for nought if the core experience didn’t hold up.

Braid is the story of Tim, an unassuming man who wants to find the Princess, ideally, save her from a monster and make up for a mistake he made. By peering into short journal entries in each world’s “hub,” other aspects of Tim’s life are known, from his relationship with his parents to what seems like an experiment. The fact that the Princess is always noted as “being in another castle” by a cute stuffed dinosaur – who also questions whether she’s real – only adds to the mystery and intrigue.

There are initially five worlds to explore, each consisting of multiple levels where you collect puzzle pieces to form different frames. While the first level feels like a Mario clone, complete with goomba-like foes to stomp, things pick up immediately in the second as the player quickly learns of Tim’s ability to rewind time. It allows for negating deaths and redoing sections if you make mistakes, but that’s only the first world.

"Of course, if you want to see what every stage has to offer without bothering to collect the pieces of each frame, go ahead, but you won’t unlock the first and final world or the proper ending."

Subsequent worlds play around with different concepts of time, from everything – enemies, projectiles and even keys moving forwards or backwards in time and space as you do to some objects being unaffected by its flow.

So while you flip switches, jump off enemy’s heads and collect keys to unlock doors, it’s all wrapped up in clever puzzles that require ingenuity, timing and a fair number of retries. What happens when you start to think in terms of recording and rewinding your actions, especially when you create a temporary clone of yourself in the process or manipulate keys to open multiple doors? It’s a fascinating exercise that remains as clever now as it did all those years ago.

Of course, if you want to see what every stage has to offer without bothering to collect the pieces of each frame, go ahead, but you won’t unlock the first and final world or the proper ending. The responsiveness and physics of the platforming really are something to behold, especially when manipulating time.

Tim may be immune to fall damage, but can still bounce off the environment depending on the velocity, messing up some landings. He can drop down from ladders and fences but can’t leap up from them to attain greater heights. Minute as all this may seem, they’re critical to solving some trickier puzzles since you need to work around these limitations.

"You might think the developer commentary would shine more light on this, and, to be fair, it doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the more popular theories."

Otherwise, Braid lacks many of the so-called “traditional” platforming elements. There is only one boss to fight, who appears twice, though the method for taking them out differs significantly on the next go-around. Outside the frame pieces and mysterious stars, there aren’t any collectibles or extraneous dialogue during stages, making for a tighter, well-paced experience.

A good chunk of the game’s legacy also centers on the interpretation of its plot points, as it culminates in one of the best ending levels and reveals in a video game to date. The true identity of the Princess, Tim’s real life and how he views the world around him vs. its actual state, the misconception of heroism – there’s a lot to glean from it all, but Blow and his team aren’t forthcoming with the answers, even if some meanings are more blatant than others.

You might think the developer commentary would shine more light on this, and, to be fair, it doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the more popular theories. However, it’s a deep dive into the game’s development – its design, the art (both original and updated), music, programming and much more. There are options to delve into separate aspects of the entire experience – represented as separate interactive levels – or play through the whole game while the commentary outlines everything.

What motivated changing a certain level’s architecture? How did the idea for the game come about? Is the opening section meant to depict a city on fire (spoilers: it’s actually just a city during sunset)? All these questions and many more are answered throughout, while plenty remains up in the air.

"To say that Braid is an essential part of gaming history would be a given – it’s a title that should be experienced, even if some sections can be a little more frustrating than others, even when everything clicks."

If you thought there was some deeper significance to the boss and one other important character wearing armor…well, the answer may not be what you want to hear. It doesn’t change the fact that the sheer breadth of commentary, from early sketches and documents to interviews, is worth the price of admission for hardcore fans alone.

To say that Braid is an essential part of gaming history would be a given – it’s a title that should be experienced, even if some sections can be a little more frustrating than others, even when everything clicks. Even without one of the best platformers of all time and the various improvements made to its presentation, the Anniversary Edition stands out for its sheer range of extra content. It’s intriguing to hear about the process behind everything and how things came to be, not to mention Blow reflecting on the project after all these years.

In closing, Braid could be analogous to the industry itself, coming full circle and seeing the prologue seamlessly shift into an epilogue. Where the end becomes the beginning, and amid the doom and gloom, there’s some hope – or at least the potential for the same – even amid all the messy dealings. Maybe it’s unintentional, maybe not – the fact that it can still inspire such thinking to this day is undeniably impressive.

This game was reviewed on PS5.

PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs

We’ve seen the likes of Pac-Man 99 and its take on the battle royale format. Amber Studio’s PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs – try saying that five times fast – offers another spin, allowing up to 64 players to venture into each other’s mazes to consume them. It’s a dangerous game as mazes continually collapse during matches, but it’s a unique spin on a classic arcade formula.

Throw in some cosmetics and even indulge in Ranked Mode to place on the leaderboards. There are even private lobbies, complete with spectator support. PAC-MAN Mega Tunnel Battle: Chomp Champs launches on May 9th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch, and thankfully, supports cross-platform play.

Homeworld 3

It’s been almost 21 years since the release of Homeworld 2, and while Deserts of Kharak received a good reception in 2016, the franchise is finally moving forward with Homeworld 3. Launching on May 13th after multiple delays, the story sees the Hyperspace Gate Network in shambles and humanity embarking on another mission for survival. All the strategic tenets are here, from your fleet carrying over between missions to utilizing the Z-axis to flank and outmaneuver opponents.

New Megaliths mix things up, providing cover, while Fortresses demand clever flanking and trench runs to overcome. In addition to the story and PvP, there’s War Games, a rogue-like mode where players play through challenges and gain Artifacts to improve their fleet. It even supports up to three players.

The Rogue Prince of Persia

The Rogue Prince of Persia embraces an animated art style and sees the Prince fighting to halt an invasion from the Huns. The robust combat system offers several weapon types and opportunities for environmental kills. Launching on May 14th for PC via Steam Early Access, The Rogue Prince of Persia offers the first story Act with six levels and two bosses, with plans to effectively double the content with the 1.0 release.

Die by the Blade

Remember Bushido Blade and its emphasis on realistic, 1v1 fights between sword-wielding warriors? Die by the Blade by Triple Hill Interactive, Toko Midori Games, and Grindstone look to channel that visceral combat feel, albeit in a cyberpunk setting. You can customize the playable characters and blades alike, though opting for heavier weapons like the Nodachi could come at the cost of speed (which the katana is skilled at). Parrying and dodging are all here, with Practice, Tournament and Ranked modes, but remember: a single decisive blow is enough to end it all. Die by the Blade launches on May 16th for PC.

Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut

Finally, Sucker Punch’s acclaimed open-world action-adventure is coming to PC. Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut has garnered acclaim for many reasons. Jin Sakai’s struggle between honor and fighting the Mongol invasion of Tsushima by any means necessary. The combat with its fluid mix of styles and Ghost Tools, from kunai and explosives to bows and powerful Ghost Techniques. The various side quests, whether it’s helping out your would-be companions or investigating the legends of Tsushima.

There’s just so much to get into, and that’s before venturing to Iki Island in the expansion. On PC, the Director’s Cut offers unlocked frame rates, Ultrawide and triple-monitor support, fully customizable mouse and keyboard support and various upscaling solutions from Nvidia DLSS 3 and AMD FSR 3 to Intel XeSS. Whether you loved it on console or have waited for its PC release, Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut can’t be missed when it launches on May 16th.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2

Despite the baffling lack of marketing from Microsoft, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is probably the company’s standout release for the year thus (if not the biggest game in May). It continues the story of Senua as she ventures through a Viking Iceland to seek revenge and save those who “have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny.” Meanwhile, the Furies continue to ring through Senua’s thoughts, guiding her but still weighing on her mind.

Developed on Unreal Engine 5, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 is an absolutely gorgeous title, from its realistic weather effects and photo-realistic lighting and textures to the lifelike facial animations. It’s almost enough to make you forget that this is a digital-only release for $49.99 and lasts about as long as the first game. Despite all that and the 30 FPS lock on consoles, it’s a long time coming and worth checking out when it launches on May 21st for Xbox Series X/S and PC.

MultiVersus

MultiVersus finally makes its long-awaited return after its beta was delisted from storefronts last year. Player First Games has retooled it extensively, from shifting to Unreal Engine 5 and overhauling the netcode to adding new fighters like the Powerpuff Girls, new stages like Dexter’s Laboratory, and adding new moves for all existing fighters.

There are even new mechanics like Dash Attacks and Parrying, with improved readability during combat and a more responsive camera that dynamically zooms in and out. A new PvE mode is also finally on the way and even promises “unique rewards.” MultiVersus will be available on May 28th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and PC.

F1 24

Say what you will about Codemasters’ yearly sequels in the F1 series, but F1 24 is looking quite good. It’s out on May 31st for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Xbox One, PS4 and PC, and delivers some brand new content. Driver Career lets you actually control one of 20 real-world Formula 1 drivers, earning accolades and earning recognition, while Challenge Career takes an episodic approach with unique events for community members vote on. With new Dynamic Handling, updates to iconic tracks, and much more, F1 24 could be the best new entry in years.

World of Goo 2

The first World of Goo launched in 2008 and received such extensive acclaim from critics that then-EA Sports head Peter Moore was annoyed that it was on a top 50 games list and FIFA 09 wasn’t. Believe it or not, World of Goo 2 is very much the same, as you use the gooey living creatures in various ways. Create bridges and other structures, reshape the world and, most importantly, survive through all kinds of new and potentially maddening puzzles when it launches on May 23rd for Nintendo Switch and PC.

MotoGP 24

Milestone’s MotoGP series hasn’t exactly been setting the world on fire these past few years, but there are fans, and they’ll probably be happy that MotoGP 24 is out on May 2nd for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch. Career Mode is still here, but the game now offers Adaptive Difficulty to tune the challenge to your tastes. MotoGP Stewards helps curb rule-skirting, and LiveGP Championships promises monthly challenges for players to pursue. It may not unseat the usual racing sim kings, but MotoGP 24 could prove a fun alternative.

Undead Inc

Undead Inc. is described as a mix of Fallout Shelter and Two Point Hospital. Your job is to create a subsidiary for the totally-not shady Endswell Medical Corporation, building different officers, hiring staff, conducting research into bioweapons and viruses, and, of course, driving profits, ethics be damned. It’s not all smooth sailing – politicians and officials need to be kept in line, and there are rival corporations to deal with. Probably the best part is that it’s only a matter of time before things go south and descend into chaos. Undead Inc. launches on May 2nd for PC.

World of Warcraft: Cataclysm Classic

What’s better than Blizzard monetizing your nostalgia for World of Warcraft’s good ol’ days? Monetizing the expansions as well. World of Warcraft: Cataclysm Classic is the “latest” and “greatest” new addition to the lineup, seeing players take on Deathwing to prevent the end of the world. Cataclysm offers seven new zones, two new races (Goblins and Worgen), transmog, a new level cap, new dungeons and raids and the Elemental Plane for players to venture into. The re-release also offers a new dungeon difficulty system, smoother leveling and a “streamlined” Auction House. It goes live on May 20th for PC.

Morbid: The Lords of Ire

Launching for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch (with a demo out now on PS5 and PC), it features a new 3D perspective for more immersive combat and there are five lands to explore and five factions awaiting your challenge, not to mention all the terrifying bosses to face. As a hack-and-slash action adventure, Morbid: The Lords of Ire could be a dark horse when it launches on May 23rd.

System Shock (Xbox and PlayStation)

One of the more underrated releases of last year, not to mention a solid remake in its own right, Nightdive Studios’ System Shock is finally coming to Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS5 and PS4 on May 21st. While it’s enough to bask in the overhauled visuals and interface, a new update went live recently, improving the game even further. It added an option to play as a female hacker, reworks the final battle, and incorporates cloud sync. Furthermore, enemies have new attacks, and there are even waypoints on Easy difficulty for those focused on the story. Overall, these should make for an even better experience on consoles.

Braid: Anniversary Edition

Previously slated for April 30th, Braid: Anniversary Edition was delayed to May 14th on PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch and Netflix. Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One users have to wait until May 15th to get their hands on it, though the reason for the delay is unknown. It should still be worth the wait, whether you’re someone keen on experiencing the original with sumptuous new visuals and delve into the 35 new levels. The developer commentary should also be a treat, providing over 15 hours of worthwhile development details.

Braid: Anniversary Edition was originally announced for modern platforms all the way back in 2020. The re-release of the game will include quite a few new features, including repainted art, new animations, and more detailed environments. The game will also include new gameplay elements, with creator Jonathan Blow having revealed back in March that it will feature 35 new levels for players to figure out.

Along with all of the visual and gameplay upgrades, Braid: Anniversary Edition will also feature more than 15 hours of developer commentary, which will include commentary on various aspects of the game like the design, art style, puzzles, and gameplay.

Braid, when it was originally released on the Xbox 360, was considered to be one of the most influential titles out there, essentially kickstarting an era of indie development and digital releases across the industry. The game has since gone on to be a commercial and critical success.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

Among the many franchises that Konami has ignored through the years is Suikoden, and though it’s remastering the first two games, the potential next chapter is coming from a completely different studio. Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a spiritual successor, produced and directed by Yoshitaka Murayama, the driving force behind the first three games (who recently passed away).

It features three core protagonists – Marisa, Seign and Nowa – in the fantasy world of Allraan, where rune-lenses have become a popular commodity. With the Galdean Empire using them to command and conquer, it’s up to the trio to assemble allies from across the land to fight back. Cue over 100 different allies with unique stories and abilities, from the magical girl Mellore and her crew to CJ, Isha and Garoo from Eiyuden Chronicle: Rising.

Combat is turn-based, but battles play out differently based on the environment. If there are cliffs or other elevated positions, they can prove advantageous for long-range party members. This also affects the presentation of battles, giving them a cinematic flair. Players can also unleash Hero Combos to team up and deal devastating damage. On top of this is War Mode, which offers real-time combat over a larger scale, and the Alliance Headquarters, with mini-games and different activities available.

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes launches on April 23rd for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch.

Phantom Fury

You’re forgiven for not remembering Bombshell, an isometric character action game with a whopping 43 Metascore. Phantom Fury is the follow-up, releasing on April 23rd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch, but offers first-person shooter gameplay instead. It sees Shelly Harrison on a bombastic journey through the US, battling mutants, cyborgs and enemy soldiers to secure an artifact. While the standard handguns and shotguns are available, Phantom Fury has some unique options – like Bowling Balls and electric foam.

Weapons can be upgraded and modified, while Shelly can eventually unlock new abilities like a shield or punching enemy groups into a fine red mist. It may have some boomer shooter vibes, but with extensive interactivity (including playable arcade machines) and fast-paced combat, it may be a worthy FPS diversion.

Underspace

For many, Freelancer is the pinnacle of sandbox space combat titles, which very few have managed to compete with, much less surpass. While it’s too early to call Underspace a competitor, the prospect of a hand-crafted universe with cosmic horrors and Eldritch creatures to navigate (appropriately named Croft) is too enticing to ignore. Like Freelancer, you can pursue the main quest or be whatever you want, exploring the universe and solving puzzles, battling massive space serpents, interacting with more than 40 factions and venturing into the deepest reaches of space. And yes, you can engage in trade, shipping and piracy with co-op support.

There is a catch, though – Underspace launches on April 10th for PC in early access. The developer has clarified that extensive ship customization, several interiors and questlines, and even cockpit textures won’t be available. Multiplayer is also launching in a “very early state” without many key features. Early access will still offer plenty of campaign content, bosses, enemies, points of interest and more to explore, but further polish is still required. Even with all that in mind, we’re keen to try Underspace and embrace the void.

Sea of Thieves

Rare’s highly successful live service pirate title comes to PS5 as part of Microsoft’s new multi-platform approach. Since launching in March 2018 to a mixed reception, Sea of Thieves has undergone an exceptional transformation over the years, with new content, mechanics, cosmetics and even narrative-focused questlines with Tall Tales (which crossover with the likes of Monkey Island and Pirates of the Caribbean).

Don’t let its cartoony visuals fool you, as Sea of Thieves offers some realistic sailing to go with its combat and exploration. While it still doesn’t have a proper character creator, the new Safer Seas option allows players who don’t want to engage in PvP and explore the seas with their crew at their leisure, with some limitations. It’s out on April 30th for PS5, with Digital Deluxe owners receiving five days early access.

Final Fantasy 16: The Rising Tide

Final Fantasy 16 had a strong start when it launched last year and though its first DLC, Echoes of the Fallen, was pretty short, The Rising Tide looks to redeem it. Players explore a new region, Mysidia, with new locations, side quests and fresh enemies, including Tonberries. The focus of this DLC is on Leviathan, the forgotten Eikon, and along with a boss battle against it, Clive also gains new abilities, including one that has an Active Reload mechanic. An increased level cap is inbound, which should be helpful in the new end-game activity, Kairos’ Gate.

It’s a wave-based survival mode with increasingly tougher enemies and bosses, with new items and weapons as rewards. Beat all of the stages and a new secret boss becomes available. As a send-off to Final Fantasy 16, The Rising Tide is worth looking forward to when it launches on April 18th for PS5. Even for those who aren’t picking it up, a free update will go live, allowing you to create sets of Eikonic Skills, among other quality-of-life improvements.

Stellar Blade

Shift Up calls modern action games an inspiration for Stellar Blade which is pretty clear based on gameplay and the recent demo. Though sci-fi, the Earth is in ruins, and players explore linear levels and semi-open world segments alike, taking on requests while accompanied by a helpful drone.

For all its similarities, however, Stellar Blade offers high-fidelity visuals and detail with a crisp frame rate, and unique combat mechanics that mix Sekiro-like parrying with special attacks, perfect dodges and combos. The main campaign promises to last about 25 hours, with plenty of collectibles and unlockables to discover. Time will tell if Stellar Blade can rise further beyond its inspiration when it launches on April 26th for PS5, but so far, it’s looking good.

Tales of Kenzera: ZAU

From smaller titles from relatively lesser-known developers to triple-A level games like Immortals of Aveum and Wild Hearts, the EA Originals label has seemingly come full circle with Tales of Kenzera: ZAU. The story involves a boy reading a tale by his late father about Zau, who explores the land of Kenzera.

As a 2.5D Metroid-style game, there are some stunning visuals with beautifully realized environments to go with fast-paced combat. Tales of Kenzera: ZAU promises to be a perfect encapsulation of what grief is when it launches on April 23rd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC and Nintendo Switch.

Dead Island 2: SoLA Expansion

2023’s excellent Dead Island 2 received an expansion back in November of last year. Now it’s all set to released another one in the form of SoLA. Releasing on April 17, this expansion will takes players to a music festival in the heart of LA. Apparently, this festival is turning everyone into zombies. The SoLA expansion promises an interesting setup, so we are intrigued to see how it pans when we go hands on with it later this month.

TopSpin 2K25

It’s been over 13 years since the last entry in the acclaimed Top Spin franchise, but the wait is nearly over as TopSpin 2K25 nears release. Legends like Roger Federer and Serena Williams headline the 24-player roster with true-to-life venues like La Caja Mágica, Pala Alpitour and Foro Italico, and online multiplayer with cross-platform support. Solo players can venture into MyCareer and fight to become Grand Slam Champion, with MyPlayer offering an extensive range of options to customize your appearance, gear and more. TopSpin 2K25 launches on April 26th for Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, PS5 and PC.

Gigantic: Rampage Edition

Launched in 2017, Motiga’s Gigantic is making an unexpected comeback with Gigantic: Rampage Edition. Developed by abstraction and published by Gearbox for $19.99, it features the same MOBA-style gameplay loop, with teams of five players working together to take out the opposing Guardian. However, all microtransactions are now removed, with cosmetics acquired through gameplay.

It also adds two new heroes and maps, a new game mode called Rush and cross-platform play. Ranked Mode and additional hero skins are coming in post-launch updates. Gigantic: Rampage Edition launches on April 9th for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5 and PC, and regardless of its long-term success, it’s good to see it return.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants

Playing like the Konami classics of old, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants features Turtle Power that builds upon defeating enemies and can unleash powerful screen-clearing attacks. Local co-op is supported for four players, on top of the original stages and boss fights, though Wrath of the Mutants adds three more stages and six new bosses. Launching on April 23rd, it could offer some fun for those who want more TMNT brawling action.

Freedom Planet 2

Following extensive acclaim with its PC version, Freedom Planet 2 is out now on Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S on April 4th. The action platformer offers a new threat with Merga, the water dragon, and four characters – Lilac, Carol and Milla from the first game, and the now-playable Neera. Adventure Mode offers a mix of story cutscenes and a world map to explore, while Classic Mode focuses on the stages alone.

Boss fights are even more over-the-top than the first game – with the new Battlesphere Arena offering an extensive range of optional challenges. Thankfully, new Potions, Amulets and Charms can provide some buffs for one’s character, while a revival system offers a risky second chance. If you enjoy 2D Sonic the Hedgehog titles or want a fun action platformer, Freedom Planet 2 is well worth the time.

Inkbound

Roguelike turn-based combat in a universe where books act as worlds to be explored by the creators of Monster Train? That’s Inkbound in a nutshell, but there’s more. The combat allows free movement from players, but during online play, you can coordinate and act simultaneously with up to three other players. There are also several character classes, abilities and upgrades, hundreds of items and more to make each run feel fresh. Inkbound is currently in early access, but version 1.0 is out on April 10th for PC, adding new cutscenes, cosmetics and other content.

Sand Land

As set in a desert world, players control Beelzebub in SAND LAND, who ventures with Thief and Sheriff Rao to discover the Legendary Spring.

Though it’s an action RPG, the focus is on vehicle design, as players cobble together tanks, bikes and jump-bots from various parts depending on the need. The sense of adventure and aesthetic, alongside the combat, set it apart from the crowd, and we’re curious to witness the Sand Land’s world when the game launches on April 26th for PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC.

Braid Anniversary Edition

The classic side-scrolling indie platformer from Thekla Inc. returns with updated visuals and gorgeous new backgrounds (with the old art style available to switch to at any time). However, there’s more to Braid Anniversary Edition than revamped sound effects, revised tracks, or the +15-hour developer commentary and interviews which discuss the design. It also features 35 new levels with new puzzles, though other additions remain to be revealed.

Hilariously, only four or five new levels were to be added before things got out of hand. Either way, Braid Anniversary Edition should satisfy long-time fans and draw in new ones when it launches on April 30th for Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and PC.

The original plan was for no new levels, which progressed to adding “like four or five, without ruining the original game.” Of course, a bunch of design then “accidentally” happened, and here we are. The levels feature new puzzles, though how many now remains to be seen.

Braid: Anniversary Edition offers gorgeous updated visuals, with improved animations and revamped backgrounds full of detail, alongside revised versions of the soundtrack and reworked sound effects. Fans can also look forward to over 15 hours of developer commentary discussing the design, art style and more.

Players can also switch back and forth between the new and old visuals at any time. Stay tuned for more details ahead of its release next month.

Braid, Anniversary Edition

has 35 new levels.

Originally I thought there would be no new levels.
Then I was like, "hey I figured out a way to add like 4 or 5, without ruining the original game."
Then I accidentally a bunch of design.

— Jonathan Blow (@Jonathan_Blow) March 22, 2024

The focus of the new trailer is to showcase the graphical improvements made in Braid: Anniversary Edition over its original 2008 release. The visuals for the game have been “hand-repainted” by artist David Hellman, who worked on the original game as well.

The trailer also showcases other aspects of the game that have been improved for the upcoming release, including improved sounds, as well as mixes of the game’s original soundtrack. Braid: Anniversary Edition will also feature a commentary track, which is set to feature more than 15 hours of developer commentary.

Braid: Anniversary Edition was originally announced all the way back in 2020. The game was originally planned for release in 2021, but has since been delayed quite a bit. The original Braid was a critically-acclaimed title back when it came out, and was one of the games credited for creating an indie boom on consoles since it was originally released on the Xbox 360.

Jonathan Blow’s Braid is one of the most influential indie games ever and helped popularize the genre, especially on consoles. It’s now making a return with Braid Anniversary Edition which will be coming to Xbox Series X, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC. Check out the trailer below.

Braid Anniversary Edition features significantly improved visuals like repainted art, additional animations and effects, and more landmarks for environments. The sound and music has also been upgraded though it’s still pretty much the same soundtrack. Developer Thekla is being considerate to ensure that new visual elements don’t ruin the spirit of the original, those who just want the charm of the original can to switch back to it at the push of a button.

There will also be a hefty amount of developer commentary. In fact, Blow is looking to have the “craziest, most in-depth commentary ever” for a game. Braid Anniversary Edition is coming in 2021 for current and next-gen platforms. Stay tuned for more details in the coming year.