[PlayStation 5] Review of Pocket Bravery

PQube and Statera Studio have teamed up to bring a fresh take on the classic fighting game genre with Pocket Bravery, now playable on the PS5. With its nostalgic hand-drawn, retro-inspired design, this 2D fighter harks back to the 1990s gaming era. From the first round, fans of the genre will feel the nod to old-school fighters, complete with a robust system that welcomes both seasoned players and newcomers. Taking a look at the trailers and screenshots, it’s clear that Pocket Bravery’s unique chibi art style makes it distinct from typical fighting games.

When diving into the mechanics, each fighter has distinct attributes in Power, Speed, Range, and Difficulty. The game relies on an elemental combat system, where strategically using elements like fire, ice, or electricity can turn the tide of battle. As a four-button fighter, you have one button each for light and heavy punches and kicks. Familiar fighting game motions let you perform special attacks by combining moves like a quarter-circle motion with a button press, or using simplified controls for more accessibility.

Control-wise, light punches are tied to the Square button, heavy punches to the Triangle, light kicks to X, and heavy kicks to Circle. A simultaneous press of Square and X lets you grapple your opponent. As you engage in combat, your elemental bar fills; at 50%, a combo-breaking move becomes available, or at 100%, a more potent version can be activated even during a beating.

The elemental special moves add a dynamic twist, enhancing your character’s abilities by pressing additional inputs at the right time. For instance, pulling off a fireball move with added elemental flair requires a simultaneous press of both punch buttons. Under pressure, the Final Attack becomes crucial – usable only when your health dips below 30%, it can be a game-changer.

There are several modes to keep you engaged. Story Mode lets you explore each character’s background, while Arcade Mode offers a lean, straight-up fight against a roster of challengers. Versus Mode provides the classic face-off against another player or AI, and Online Mode brings worldwide competition into the mix, with both ranked and casual matches. You’ll also find a Tutorial Mode, perfect for mastering the basics and advanced tactics alike.

For those aiming to hone their skills, Training Mode offers a sandbox to experiment with combos and techniques against custom AI behaviors. Combo Factory and various extra modes – including Survival, Time Attack, Trials, Rainbow Edition, and Hot Pursuit – add even more depth, giving you endless chances to test your might.

Pocket Bravery also includes a Gallery, where you can access concept art, videos, messages from the developers, and more, tied to achievements in the game. You can unlock additional content through the in-game shop, purchasing new stages, modes, avatars, and even a new character using points earned by playing.

For trophy hunters, Pocket Bravery doesn’t disappoint with a comprehensive list, including a Platinum trophy. As a Cross-Buy title, you get both PS4 and PS5 versions for one price, each with separate trophy lists, offering a wealth of goals to achieve.

Accessibility features cater to various needs, including adjustable announcer settings, subtitle size, contrast modes, and a range of colorblind options. Pocket Bravery is available for $19.99, making it an enticing package for fans of the genre, packed with nostalgia and modern-day flair.

This review of Pocket Bravery is based on a PlayStation 5 version provided by PQube, ensuring an authentic experience of its vibrant combat and engaging modes.