BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special review

I enjoy visual novels and their many twists and turns. Furthermore, this is a relaxing genre that helps me unwind after a stressful day. With Christmas around the corner, I couldn’t resist giving BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special a go. This festive-themed game isn’t all joy and candy. Instead, it is pretty depressing in places as it traverses an array of emotional subjects.

Developer COWCAT has created this prequel to its much-loved BROK the InvestiGator. Unlike that game, this one has no adventure or beat ’em up elements. Instead, it focuses on choices and the many consequences that unfold. Additionally, this special edition is a quick read. You’ll push through this in under 2 hours, and the language, themes, and ideas are suitable for gamers of all ages.

BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special, isn’t all that festive!

BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special follows Graff and Ott as they prepare for the Natal Untail. This twisted event follows the ancient traditions of their people. The pair aspire to become “Drumers”. This coveted role leads to an easier life inside the glass dome. Accordingly, they must work hard and make sacrifices if they are to be successful.

It is these sacrifices and the strain on their relationship that this story follows. Additionally, you’ll spend time with BROK as he meets up with old acquaintances. As the story unfolds, you must make minor decisions that can have major ramifications. Thankfully, the developer allows you to restart from the point of no return if your game ends.

Thoroughly entertaining.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming plot filled with Christmas joy, this may not be for you. Instead, BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special, intertwines the horrific nature of the dystopian world with the hardships of its lowest citizens. The wonderful pacing of the plot and the interesting characters bring this theme and world to life.

On top of this, each of the chapters is short enough to be devoured in one sitting. This makes this the ideal visual novel for people with short attention spans. You may be concerned that the slightly darker ideas and themes may not be suitable for younger gamers. However, there isn’t anything gory, unsightly, or rude. Consequently, despite the occasional uncomfortable moment, it is all child-friendly.

BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special looks fantastic.

If you want an all-singing and all-dancing game, this won’t be for you. However, if you are familiar with the genre, you’ll appreciate the clean lines, vibrant colours, and excellent character models. Additionally, the backdrops are varied and suit the nature of each interaction. The audio is more detailed and compelling than many of its peers. I love the daunting music, the excellent use of sound effects, and the uncomfortable atmosphere. Subsequently, this game is aesthetically pleasing.

If you don’t want to control the text, you can set the pace and automate the action. Furthermore, there are some excellent accessibility options to ensure that this is accessible to as many people as possible. BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special has plenty of twists and turns, but it has limited replay value. Sadly, once you’ve exhausted the main storyline, there is little reason to return.

BROK: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special is a weird but good visual novel.

I expected a festive treat, but this never happened. Instead, it was a little sombre, weird, and out there. However, this isn’t a complaint as I love the characters, the settings, and the incredible aesthetics. Accordingly, it is a good visual novel, and you should get a copy from the Xbox Store!