Bound Reviews
[Bound is] for the people that want something thoughtful, meaningful, and intelligent. For that audience, this game is about as good as they come. As a member of that audience myself, it’s right up there with my favourite games of the year.
Bound follows the path of Journey but with its own innovations. A very intimate story, entertaining platform gameplay and an outstanding graphic design make this Santa Monica's game a must-buy for the PlayStation 4 players.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Bound is an ugly game, but it’s the most powerful, most enchanting kind of ugly. It dares to reject videogames’ obsession with “looking good” and instead focuses on using visual design to complement the core themes and emotional hook of the game. It’s an ugly game because, by taking those ugly fragments and piecing them together, we might just be able to find something beautiful.
Bound through, around who? Float and flow, don't gloat and blow. Prance, no... dance! Go! Bound, a review around you.
A work of art, which exemplifies the direction in which the gaming indie scene should be heading, while at the same time showcasing why it should also abandon AAA techniques of conducting narrative.
The stylized look is stunning and interesting visually. Even with the issues of the levels and controls, Bound uses the unique movements to make it more compelling and engaging. The story is emotional and deep. The lack of narration used to tell the story makes it even better.
For those looking for a different kind of experience, though, these issues will matter little. I loved my time with BOUND. These are the kind of visual and conceptual offerings I want more of from smaller studios. I’m anxious to see what Plastic comes up with next. PlayStation VR Note: I was able to try this out at the Sony VR booth at E3. The final game is said to be 'VR compatible'. It was a little off-putting at first to move a third-person character in VR, but I warmed to it by the end. I don't think the VR option is a reason to buy (or avoid), but if you end up purchasing PS VR, and are in need of a stunning vista to lose yourself in, go for it.
‘Notgame’ isn’t the right tag for Bound, as there is a game here with platforming, puzzle solving, and defending against dangers, though admittedly much of it is about the journey undertaken. Plastic stated that narrative was the focus and it is part of everything, from the way the environments are shaped to the obstacles placed in front of the ballerina. Bound is easily one of the most stunning games to release on PS4, and if you’re searching for something a little different I heartily recommend it.
Bound brings a unique approach to the speedrunning platformer by putting the focus on a heartbreaking narrative and a beautiful dance mechanic to pull players through its world.
Bound is a vague but undeniably powerful game. Its sweeping environments and spellbinding aesthetic invite you to look closer, appreciate its story, and find meaning through your own interpretation. The gameplay beneath is pleasant (if unremarkable) and dutifully supports the greater aim of giving the player something to reflect on. If that level of engagement suits you, Bound is one of PS4’s best games. If not, there’s still a resonant message to take away, though its brief journey left me pining for more time with the dancer in her beautiful, strange world.
Beautiful, compelling and strange. There isn't a reason not to try Bound, and although its heavy emotional focus might not be for everyone, its well implemented movement and speed mechanics will surely be enough to keep even the most stone-hearted player entertained.
Bound disappoints in some areas, but it did give me a deep appreciation of ballet and dance, which was entirely unexpected
It’s a visual and musical spectacle that really shouldn’t be missed if you’re a fan of art.
Bound is an imperfect but enchanting reminder of the power of art
A decent platform elevated by stellar audio work, and a phenomenal artistic vision.
A gorgeous platformer with an exceptionally unique protagonist and powerful narrative, Bound offers up all the elements of a compelling title that fits in with the growing list of games reaching for high art. It confusion about whether to fully commit to this is sadly to its own detriment though, sullying the underlying message and begging the question of what could’ve been.
Like the game, this review is short and to the point - if you're wanting for a singular, beautiful experience, that may be a little thin but is no less memorable, Bound is a game for you.
Bound schöpft leider nicht sein ganzes Potenzial aus und bietet neben der sehr gelungenen Umgebung, leider viel zu wenig. Wer sich aber 1-2 Stunden mit simplen Gameplay und einer flachen Story abfinden kann, wird auf jeden Fall mit Bound zumindest etwas schönes für die Augen bekommen.
Review in German | Read full review
What Bound lacks in challenging gameplay, it makes up for in breathtaking awe.
If you fancy a game that is a unique experience, Bound is certainly one that will get people talking even though it doesn't entirely meet all its goals.