PGC NEWS

The immensely popular match-3 genre, home to classics like Bejeweled and Candy Crush, has primarily found its home on mobile devices. These games, known for their simple yet addictive gameplay, offer a perfect way to kill time. However, this same simplicity has often prevented the genre from gaining significant traction on PC and consoles, where gamers typically crave deeper, more engaging experiences. Trinket Studios recognized this gap and set out to create a fresh take on the match-3 formula with Battle Chef Brigade, a game that blends culinary competition with action-packed monster hunting. But does Battle Chef Brigade have the right ingredients to satisfy players’ appetites? This review explores just that.

Hunt, Cook, and Conquer in Victusia

Battle Chef Brigade follows Mina and her fellow aspiring chefs as they compete to become the ultimate culinary champion in the kingdom of Victusia. But before you can even begin cooking, you need ingredients. This is where Battle Chef Brigade distinguishes itself. Ingredients aren’t simply given; they must be earned through thrilling hunts.

From sparrows and boars to fiery dragons and multi-headed serpents, a wide variety of creatures become potential ingredients. The thrill of the hunt adds a unique flavor to the cooking experience. Engaging in fast-paced combat using magic, special abilities, and unique weapons provides a refreshing contrast to the puzzle-solving aspects of the game. However, remember that efficiency is key. You don’t want to return to the kitchen with a bounty of exotic ingredients only to find you have mere seconds left on the clock.

Battle Chef Brigade – Combat

Battle Chef Brigade – Gathering Ingredients

Mastering the Culinary Arts

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to head to the kitchen. Here, Battle Chef Brigade transforms into a match-3 puzzle game, where you manipulate the flavors of your dishes.

Each dish comprises three core flavors: fire, water, and earth. To impress the judges, you must not only use the required ingredients but also balance these flavors to their liking. Whether the judges crave dragon meat or rare gems, it’s your job to procure and skillfully incorporate them into your dishes. Each ingredient possesses a unique combination of flavors. By strategically placing them in the pan and “stirring” to match adjacent flavors, you create more potent flavor combinations, increasing the dish’s value and earning higher scores. Your choice of cookware also plays a crucial role, as different pots and pans offer unique benefits. And remember, nobody likes a poisoned dish, so be sure to eliminate any toxins!

A Feast for the Senses

The innovative gameplay mechanics are the main course, but the presentation is equally important. Battle Chef Brigade boasts stunning hand-drawn visuals. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring the world to life, while the fluid animations add a touch of magic, reminiscent of a captivating animated film. The hand-drawn style allows for nuanced expressions, further enhanced by the excellent voice acting, which imbues each character with distinct personality and emotion.

Beyond the main competition, Battle Chef Brigade offers a variety of side quests, including puzzles, serving tables, and hunting, adding to the game’s replayability and providing opportunities to earn extra coin to purchase upgrades for your hunting and cooking endeavors.

Battle Chef Brigade – Cooking

Battle Chef Brigade – Ingredients

The extensive recipe list, with dishes varying based on the ingredients used, adds another layer of enjoyment and encourages culinary creativity. The game’s heartwarming story, centered on family and personal growth, adds a touch of emotional depth to the experience.

A Satisfying, if Not Unforgettable, Meal

While Battle Chef Brigade excels in its innovative blend of gameplay mechanics and charming presentation, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a deep combat experience, a captivating narrative, extensive exploration, or a complex, brain-teasing puzzle game. The soundtrack, while pleasant, is not particularly memorable.

Battle Chef Brigade – Gameplay

Battle Chef Brigade doesn’t strive to be an unforgettable experience, but rather a thoroughly enjoyable one, and in that, it succeeds admirably. Its unique blend of action, puzzle-solving, and charming presentation makes it a dish worth savoring.

Conclusion

Battle Chef Brigade offers a refreshing and engaging experience for those seeking a unique twist on the match-3 genre. Its blend of action-packed monster hunting and strategic puzzle-solving, combined with its charming presentation and heartwarming story, makes for a delightful and satisfying gameplay experience. While it may not be a groundbreaking title in any single genre, its innovative approach and attention to detail make it a worthwhile addition to any gamer’s library.