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MONSTER

Super Bomberman R

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Super Bomberman R
Item: Super Bomberman R
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresAction, Puzzle and Logic, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 3, 2017

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperKonami

Overview

"Since its release in 1985, Bomberman has been a familiar party-battle game for many years. Now, Bomberman is coming back as "SUPER BOMBERMAN R" to Nintendo Switch. In SUPER BOMBERMAN R, the simple rule remains the same: operate the main character (Bomberman), place bombs, and battle with enemies and rivals, but it's coming back in a modern style with 3D stages and photo-real graphics. You can enjoy battles with rivals from all over the world. There is "Battle" mode for maximum of 8 players, and single play "Story" mode (cooperative play for 2 players is possible as well) where players clear each stage one by one, with a big volume of 50 stages. Also, there is a new rule where the condition to clear the stage is not just by wiping out all the enemies. This simple but strategic game with new rules and 3D stages is fun for everyone, from children to adults."

Elsewhere

5.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R charms with its nostalgic, cartoonish vibe and over 50 diverse levels, but critics slam its story mode as flat, repetitive, and uninspired. While the gameplay engages, the lack of depth in the narrative leaves it feeling like an obligatory add-on rather than a meaningful part of the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Super Bomberman R has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its animated cutscenes and the nostalgic, cartoonish vibe it presents. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Video Chums have noted that the story mode resembles a Saturday morning cartoon, which adds a layer of charm to the overall experience. The game features a substantial number of levels—over 50—across various themed worlds, providing players with a diverse range of tasks beyond the classic bomb-placing mechanics. Critics such as GamingTrend and Digital Chumps appreciate the engaging gameplay and the introduction of different objectives, which help to keep the experience fresh, even if the narrative itself is not particularly deep. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics leans toward the negative when it comes to the story's execution. Many reviewers, including Vandal and LaPS4, criticize the narrative for being flat, simplistic, and lacking depth. The missions are often described as repetitive, and the overall plot involving the villain Buggler and the Bomberman siblings is seen as uninspired and cliché. Metro GameCentral bluntly states that the story mode is a "horrible waste of time," while Atomix and XGN echo sentiments about its forgettable and uninteresting nature. Critics like FNintendo and Game Informer also highlight the lack of engagement and the tediousness of the cutscenes, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. In summary, while Super Bomberman R does have its moments of charm and offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the franchise, the consensus among critics is that the story mode fails to deliver a compelling narrative. The repetitive gameplay and lack of depth in the storyline overshadow the game's potential, leading to a perception that it serves more as an obligatory addition rather than a meaningful component of the overall experience. Critics such as Everyeye.it and EGM encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the story is merely a light-hearted backdrop that does not engage players effectively. Overall, Super Bomberman R presents a mixed bag, where the engaging gameplay contrasts sharply with a lackluster narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R nails classic Bomberman charm with simple, accessible gameplay and a fun multiplayer experience. Critics praise its local and online play, but the game stumbles with pacing, controls, and a lackluster single-player campaign. Technical issues like lag and visibility problems frustrate the fun, leading to mixed reviews. While nostalgic and enjoyable for some, it may leave players wanting more depth and refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Super Bomberman R has been praised for retaining the classic elements that fans of the franchise cherish. Critics like DualShockers and COGconnected highlight the game’s adherence to the iconic Bomberman mechanics, emphasizing the simplicity and accessibility that allow players to easily pick up and enjoy the game. The multiplayer experience, in particular, has received accolades, with Eurogamer Italy and Metro GameCentral noting that it excels in both local and online play, making it a great party game. Additionally, the game incorporates a variety of objectives and power-ups, which some reviewers, such as EGM and Digitally Downloaded, appreciate for adding depth to the gameplay experience. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Digital Chumps and We Got This Covered both mention issues with pacing and control, which can lead to a frustrating experience, particularly in multiplayer modes. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and TheXboxHub express disappointment with the campaign's lack of challenge and replayability, with the former noting that boss encounters can feel unengaging. Furthermore, several reviews, including those from NZGamer and InsideGamer.nl, highlight technical issues such as lag in multiplayer and visibility problems due to the isometric camera angle, which can complicate gameplay and lead to frustrating moments. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Super Bomberman R successfully captures the essence of classic Bomberman gameplay, it struggles with pacing, control issues, and a lack of depth in its single-player mode. Reviewers like XGN and Trusted Reviews echo this sentiment, indicating that the multiplayer shines but is hampered by technical issues and limited customization options. Despite these criticisms, the game remains a nostalgic experience for many, with its core mechanics and multiplayer fun being a significant draw, as noted by critics such as GameSpot and PlaySense. The mixed feedback indicates that while Super Bomberman R has its merits, it may not fully satisfy all players, particularly those seeking a more refined and innovative experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R's graphics receive mixed reviews, praised for their colorful, cartoonish aesthetic reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons but criticized for poor execution. While some find the visuals charming, most reviewers highlight significant flaws like uninspired design, problematic camera angles, and lack of vibrancy, leading to a consensus that the game misses the mark on delivering a visually compelling experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Super Bomberman R have garnered a mix of opinions, with some critics highlighting the game's colorful and cartoonish aesthetic as a positive aspect. Many reviewers, such as Everyeye.it and Nintendo Enthusiast, noted that the visuals are bright and fitting for the light-hearted tone of the game, with a style reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons. Critics from Gameblog.fr and Game Revolution appreciated the character designs, describing them as cute and charming, while the animated cutscenes received praise for their lively and engaging presentation. Additionally, some reviews, like those from Cubed3 and Twinfinite, acknowledged the game's attempt to modernize its graphics while maintaining a nostalgic connection to the series' roots. However, the overall sentiment regarding the visual design is largely negative, with numerous critics pointing out significant flaws. Gameblog.fr and IGN Italia criticized the poor color choices and uninspired visual style, which detracted from gameplay clarity. The camera angles were frequently mentioned as problematic, with Cheat Code Central and XGN noting that they hindered visibility and made maneuvering difficult, especially in multiplayer scenarios. Critics like Eurogamer Italy and Vooks described the graphics as generic and lacking vibrancy, comparing them unfavorably to previous entries in the series. The consensus among many reviewers is that while there are some appealing elements, the game ultimately suffers from a lack of polish and innovation in its visual presentation. In summary, the critics' opinions on Super Bomberman R's graphics and visual design reveal a clear divide between appreciation for its colorful aesthetic and disappointment in its execution. While some reviewers, such as Game Revolution and NintendoWorldReport, found the visuals to be charming and fitting, the majority expressed concerns over the uninspired design, poor camera angles, and lack of vibrant environments. The overall consensus suggests that although the game has potential with its cartoonish style, it falls short of delivering a visually compelling experience, leaving many critics wishing for a more ambitious approach to its graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R features upbeat music and effective sound effects praised by some, but critics largely slam the repetitiveness of the soundtrack and poor voice acting, which detracts from the experience. Many lament the absence of classic Bomberman tunes, leading to a mixed reception overall—a few highlights overshadowed by significant shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

24%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Super Bomberman R have garnered a mix of opinions from critics, with some praising certain aspects of the audio experience. Many reviewers noted that the music is upbeat and fitting for the arcade-style gameplay, with Hobby Consolas highlighting the catchy themes hidden within the soundtrack. Critics like COGconnected and DarkStation appreciated the cheerful and synthesized tracks that accompany the action, contributing positively to the game’s overall atmosphere. Additionally, SomosXbox found the sound effects to be simple yet effective, enhancing the character interactions during gameplay, while GameSpot mentioned the fun nature of the sound effects and J-pop vocal tracks, indicating a degree of enjoyment among players. However, the criticisms regarding the sound design and music are notably more pronounced. A significant number of reviewers pointed out the repetitiveness of the soundtrack, with Areajugones and GameSpew both indicating that the music can become monotonous over time. The voice acting received a considerable amount of negative feedback as well, with critics like Atomix and Xbox Tavern describing it as forced and detracting from the overall experience. GamingTrend went as far as to describe the voice repetition as brutal, and God is a Geek found the enthusiastic theme tune and voices irritating. Moreover, the absence of classic Bomberman music was a common lament, with Video Chums and SpazioGames noting that the new soundtrack fails to inspire compared to previous titles in the series. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the sound design and music of Super Bomberman R. While some aspects, such as the upbeat nature of the music and effective sound effects, received praise, the overwhelming sentiment points to significant shortcomings in variety and quality. The repetitiveness of both the music and voice lines is a common thread in the critiques, with many reviewers suggesting that these elements detract from the overall gaming experience. Critics like Game Revolution and Vandal encapsulate this sentiment, noting that while the sound design has its merits, it ultimately falls short of enhancing the gameplay in a memorable way.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R's voice acting is a mixed bag—praised for its charm and nostalgic appeal reminiscent of 90s cartoons, yet criticized for forced performances and poor quality that detracts from the experience. While some enjoy its quirky style, many find it lacks consistency and immersion, making the overall reception divided.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Super Bomberman R has garnered a mix of opinions, with several critics highlighting its charm and suitability for the game's whimsical nature. For instance, SomosXbox praised the voice acting for being well-suited to the characters, reflecting their distinct personalities effectively. Similarly, Cubed3 noted that each of the eight main bomber characters has their own unique voice, delivered with an endearing level of charm. Critics like Nintendo Enthusiast and We Got This Covered also appreciated the nostalgic feel of the voice work, likening it to early 90s cartoons, which adds a layer of fun to the overall experience. This positive sentiment is further echoed by DarkStation, who mentioned that the fully-voiced cutscenes contribute personality to the game. However, the voice acting has also faced significant criticism, with many reviewers pointing out its shortcomings. Critics such as Atomix and LevelUp found the English voice acting to be forced and unpleasant, which detracted from the narrative experience. New Game Network echoed this sentiment, describing the performances as cheesy and awkward, with some feeling ill-fitting. Additionally, Xbox Tavern and InsideGamer.nl highlighted the poor quality of the voice acting, particularly in campaign cutscenes, which negatively impacted the overall experience. The repetitive nature of the voices, as mentioned by Video Chums, has also been a point of contention, making the audio experience feel monotonous during extended gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Super Bomberman R has its moments of charm and fits the cartoonish style of the game, it is often marred by a lack of quality and consistency. Many reviewers, such as DualShockers and Destructoid, pointed out the wonky and lackluster delivery that can detract from immersion. While some critics found enjoyment in the campy and nostalgic aspects, others felt that the overall execution was lacking, leading to a mixed reception. Ultimately, the voice acting serves as a double-edged sword—contributing to the game's quirky aesthetic while simultaneously falling short of elevating the narrative experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Super Bomberman R" on Nintendo Switch has a mix of praise for offline play but is plagued by major technical issues like input lag and connectivity problems, particularly in online modes. Critics across all platforms agree that while the game shows potential, serious performance flaws hinder the multiplayer experience, necessitating urgent fixes to improve enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of "Super Bomberman R" across various platforms, the Nintendo Switch emerges with a mixed bag of opinions. On the positive side, some critics like Trusted Reviews and EGM noted that the game performs well, with easy online multiplayer and no significant lag in their personal experiences. Additionally, Cubed3 mentioned that the game maintains a steady 30 frames per second offline, which is commendable given the chaotic nature of multiplayer gameplay. Critics like Digital Chumps also highlighted that despite some control lag issues, the overall gameplay experience was positive, suggesting that the game can be enjoyable when conditions are right. However, the negatives significantly overshadow the positives for the Nintendo Switch, as a majority of critics pointed out serious technical issues. Vandal, Nintendo Enthusiast, and TheSixthAxis all reported problems with input lag, particularly in crowded scenarios and during online play, which severely impacts gameplay. Games.cz and TrueGaming echoed these sentiments, noting multiplayer connectivity issues that lead to long wait times and frequent timeouts. Furthermore, FNintendo and Cheat Code Central highlighted problems with low resolution, frame rate, and controller compatibility, indicating a lack of polish in the game's technical performance. This pattern of criticism suggests that the online multiplayer experience is particularly fraught with challenges. For the Xbox One and PS4 platforms, the consensus is somewhat more favorable, yet still marred by significant issues. Critics like Digital Chumps and TheXboxHub on Xbox One noted that while the game is well-crafted, online performance suffers from a low player count, making it difficult to find matches. On the PS4, while Vandal and Eurogamer Italy acknowledged stable performance at 60fps, they also noted matchmaking issues and minor input delays that detract from the overall experience. Overall, across all platforms, the critics agree that while "Super Bomberman R" has the potential to be a fun multiplayer experience, it is hampered by inconsistent technical performance and connectivity issues that need urgent attention, particularly in its online modes. The overwhelming sentiment suggests that without significant patches and improvements, the game's technical shortcomings will continue to detract from its enjoyment.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Super Bomberman R offers chaotic, fun multiplayer action, especially with friends, and features unlockable content that enhances replay value. However, it falls flat in single-player mode with repetitive stages and no level replay, plus online play suffers from technical issues and a dwindling player base. Critics agree that while local multiplayer is a blast, the overall content is sparse, making it hard to justify the price for long-term fun. In short: great for a party, but lacking substance for solo play.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

Super Bomberman R has garnered a mixed reception regarding its replay value, with several critics highlighting the enjoyable aspects of its multiplayer modes. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer Italy and Nintendo Life, emphasize the fun and chaotic nature of the multiplayer experience, particularly when played with friends. The game allows for local multiplayer with up to eight players, which is seen as a significant draw for social gatherings. Critics like MondoXbox and CGMagazine also mention the wealth of unlockable content and various modes as contributing factors to its replayability. The customization options and the ability to earn gems to unlock new characters and accessories add layers of engagement for players who enjoy competitive gameplay. However, the game faces considerable criticism regarding its single-player mode and overall content depth. Critics like XGN and Hardcore Gamer point out the lack of replayability in single-player due to the inability to replay earlier levels and the repetitive nature of the stages. The online multiplayer experience is also marred by a small player base and technical issues, as noted by Areajugones and DualShockers, which can lead to a less engaging experience. Many reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and Attack of the Fanboy, express disappointment in the limited variety of modes and the overall sparseness of content, making it hard to justify the game's price for long-term engagement. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Super Bomberman R has potential for enjoyable multiplayer experiences, particularly in local settings, it suffers from significant limitations that hinder its replay value. The single-player mode is often described as lacking depth, serving mainly as a tutorial, and the online multiplayer is hampered by technical issues and a lack of players. Despite the fun that can be had with friends, as highlighted by critics like Vandal and Digital Chumps, many reviewers agree that the game does not offer enough content to maintain long-term interest, leading to a mixed sentiment about its replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

87%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Super Bomberman R has received a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting its enjoyable multiplayer aspects. Critics like GameSpot and Nintendo Life praised the game as a "welcome retro rush" and a "perfect fit for the Switch's local multiplayer focus," respectively. The multiplayer experience is often described as fun and engaging, making it a suitable option for gatherings with friends. Many reviews, such as those from Game Revolution and Digital Chumps, noted that the game shines in competitive play, particularly for fans of the franchise looking for a nostalgic experience. The charming presentation and addictive gameplay were also mentioned positively, indicating that there is enjoyment to be found, especially in local multiplayer scenarios. However, the game is marred by several significant drawbacks that overshadow its strengths. Critics like Trusted Reviews and Gameblog.fr expressed disappointment over the lack of content, with many stating that the game feels overpriced for what it offers. The single-player mode is often labeled as lackluster, with reviewers like Game Informer and TrueGaming pointing out that it lacks depth and innovation. Technical issues, including lag and poor online performance, were also highlighted by critics such as NZGamer and Digital Chumps, further detracting from the overall experience. The in-game currency system received criticism for being poorly implemented, adding to the frustrations of players. The overall consensus among critics is that while Super Bomberman R has its moments of fun, particularly in multiplayer, it ultimately falls short in delivering a comprehensive gaming experience that justifies its price point. Many reviewers recommend waiting for a price drop before purchasing, as echoed by critics like USgamer and ZTGD. The game is viewed as a missed opportunity to innovate within the franchise, with several critics noting that it does not surpass previous iterations. In summary, Super Bomberman R is seen as a decent but flawed entry in the series, best enjoyed in local multiplayer settings, but lacking the depth and content necessary to recommend it at full price.

TL;DR

Super Bomberman R offers fun local multiplayer that's a nostalgic hit, but it suffers from a lack of content and a disappointing single-player mode. Critics praise its charm and competitive play but note technical issues and a poor in-game currency system. Overall, it’s a decent but flawed game that's not worth the full price—wait for a discount.

MONSTER

Reviews

121 reviews found

Video Chums

PlayStation 4

Jun 14, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is recommended for those who don't own it on Switch and enjoy Bomberman.

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Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Jun 18, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a worthy investment for fans, offering classic gameplay with new mechanics, despite some flaws in voice acting and camera control.

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Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Mar 13, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a great party game with solid multiplayer options and enjoyable single-player content, making it a worthy addition to the series.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Mar 3, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a no-frills entry in the series, but a perfect fit for the Switch's local multiplayer focus. It is recommended for old-school gamers and those new to the Bomberman series. It is a great multiplayer launch title.

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GameSpace

Jun 28, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a fun game with enjoyable gameplay and good replay value.

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Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Mar 4, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a satisfying candidate for multiplayer competitions and online battles, despite some slight issues with online lag and repetitious voice clips.

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Areajugones

Nintendo Switch

Mar 19, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the game is fun in local multiplayer but lacks content and replayability, making it feel repetitive after a short time.

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Video Chums

Nintendo Switch

Mar 4, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a joyful return for the series with addictive gameplay and a charming presentation, despite some minor complaints regarding content and audio.

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CGMagazine

Nintendo Switch

Mar 7, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Well worth considering if you want something to play with friends, despite some flaws.

MondoXbox

Xbox One

Jun 24, 2018

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Super Bomberman R is a solid entry in the series, combining classic gameplay with new features, though it has some issues with online play.

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