Minecraft: Story Mode – Episode 4: A Block and a Hard Place Review

Minecraft Story Mode A Telltale Games Series Episode 4 A Block and a Hard Place Review Screenshot 1

I was very excited to jump back into Minecraft Story Mode with episode 4, to see how things were going to continue since last time. The series started by feeling light-hearted and full of humour, but we are now starting to see a much more serious story, full of action and even sad moments.

I don’t want to spoil anything, but last time episode 3 ended on a sad note. This episode continues where episode 3 finished. The gang of heroes have to rally together to continue on their quest to stop the Wither Storm. The series has proven that its capable of telling a strong story, with a variety of well fleshed out characters. This fourth episode in the series is supposedly where we are going to see the end of the Witherstorm. The series still has funny moments, that feel fresh and helps to balance out the more serious storytelling.

Minecraft Story Mode A Telltale Games Series Episode 4 A Block and a Hard Place Review Screenshot 2

This episode is certainly the most serious and darkest so far. The characters are having to deal with a lot, but this works well as it really shows character development. This time they are trying to get to ‘The Far Lands.’ The Far Lands occupies the very edge of the world. I have really enjoyed seeing the characters grow and change over the series. I think it has also helped that the releases of the episodes haven’t been too far apart. The episode is full of dialogue options that push the story forward. As we go into each episode the choices are becoming much more serious and impactful. I have played a few of the Telltale games, including the Walking Dead, Game of Thrones and The Wolf Among Us, but this is the first time since The Walking Dead that I have actually felt emotionally invested in the characters and story. The story here is great and I feel it reaches adults, while staying appropriate for children.

I have to say that I really enjoyed the gameplay in this episode. There are traps, secret doors and interesting puzzles that keep things interesting. In this episode it really feels like the perfect blend of gameplay and storytelling. We learn more about the characters and even some of the rifts between them. I don’t want to spoil the story for people, but its interesting to see the character’s relationships change over the series. The pacing of the story is spot on and keeps the narrative moving forward. Even the moments where you solve puzzles don’t feel forced in, and work well within the context of the story.

Minecraft Story Mode A Telltale Games Series Episode 4 A Block and a Hard Place Review Screenshot 3

What the series has done well is not have to stretch the story over the episodes. In my opinion the story has been compact and concise. This helps keep every moment entertaining and fresh. The episode finishes off on a huge climax. Telltale manages to create gameplay moments that are both emotional and exciting to play. The episode finishes leaving you wanting more, which is great and I can’t wait to get the final piece of the story. This is what this type of game should be about. It tells an interesting story that appeals to all ages and also has gameplay that is interesting.

The presentation of the game again is spot on and stays true to the world of Minecraft. The sound design and music works well and again the voice acting is very good. Overall Minecraft Story Mode has gone from strength to strength. There were some slow moments early on in the series, but now its really showing its strengths. I’m genuinely very excited to see what plays out in the final episode. Episode 4 finishes in a way that makes you wonder what can happen next. If you’re looking for a game with a good story, characters and interesting gameplay, then I would recommend you check out Minecraft Story Mode.

REVIEW CODE: A complimentary Sony Playstation 4 code was provided to Brash Games for this review. Please send all review code enquiries to editor@brashgames.co.uk.

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