Max: The Curse of Brotherhood shows promise

The drawing mechanic works surprisingly well

A spiritual successor to Max and the Magic Marker, Press Play’s Max: The Curse of Brotherhood was about what I expected in terms of platforming. While the handling is a bit loose, I will say the magical marker itself controlled better than anticipated. When holding down the right trigger, you’ll assume direct control of the marker and can quickly raise earth pillars, draw vines, and create a gushing stream of water that propels Max forward.

These elements can only be drawn into existence from preset nodes in the environment, which will hopefully result in puzzles that are challenging but not frustratingly so. In my hands-on time, I could only create vines to swing on and branches that served as platforms; the other abilities will of course come later on. With such a limited toolset, puzzles didn’t get too tough but the platforming was, at times, difficult. I died — more than a few times! That’s a good thing.

I’m not super enthusiastic about The Curse of Brotherhood as it stands, though it will more than likely be something I check out and probably enjoy later this year on Xbox Live Arcade. It didn’t grab me, is all. Still worth putting on your radar if you’re into puzzle-platformers.