Braid Member Review for the Xbox360

Before I say anything, know that there are mixed feelings about Braid. This is undoubtedly an expensive investment, and it's not terribly replayable, but it is possibly the most innovative and satisfying game of the year. rnrnBraid's gameplay is seamless. The background is like a beautiful painting, the animated characters and baddies reminiscent of your favorite childhood cartoons. The levels weave into each other and tell an intricate story, and everything melts together as if it was crafted of decadent chocolate. I can't put this into words. You'll have to find out for yourself. rnThe animation of Braid is one of the best in an XBL Arcade game ever.rnrnBut this game isn't just looks. Braid is one of the most intelligent games, even for a puzzle game like it is, that has come out in a long time. Some of the puzzles will be apparent as soon as you set eyes on them, some will cause hours of agony and distress. But each puzzle tells a story. Not only does it fit with the world/physics, most of them have deeper meanings. The ending as well, is heart-rending. Really; I finished the game, sighed, layed down, and felt, ultimately, more satisfied than I ever have. Coming back and rewriting this review over half a year after finishing it, I still remember the feeling I got after watching the ending cutscene, playing through the incredible last level, and sinking satisfyingly back onto the ground as the final pieces of the puzzle came together.