Explosions, freedom, and pixelated mayhem — Broforce is everything action movie fans never knew they needed. Developed by Free Lives and officially released in October 2015, this 2D side-scrolling run-and-gun game is a love letter to ’80s and ’90s action heroes.
Available on PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch, it pits you and your fellow “bros” against terrorists, aliens, and the forces of evil, all in the name of liberty.
With over-the-top destruction, a massive roster of parody heroes, and couch co-op that fuels chaotic fun, Broforce delivers a fast-paced, patriotic thrill ride that never takes itself too seriously.
Development and Release of Broforce
Free Lives originally released Broforce through early access in 2014, quickly attracting attention for its frantic gameplay and unapologetic humor. Fueled by community feedback and frequent updates, the game evolved into a polished gem that officially launched in October 2015 under the banner of Devolver Digital.
What started as a tongue-in-cheek action parody became a cult favorite, earning acclaim for its addictive gameplay and hilarious character roster.
If this kind of chaos appeals to you, check out Metal Gear Solid—another iconic side-scrolling shooter loaded with arcade charm and explosive action.
Storyline and Setting of Broforce
While Broforce doesn’t rely heavily on plot, it has just enough narrative to drive the carnage. You play as part of an elite group of “bros,” elite soldiers modeled after iconic action heroes like Rambo, Terminator, and Blade—all with cheeky name twists like “Rambro” or “Brobocop.”
Your mission? Liberate occupied territories from evildoers, rescue fellow bros, and spread freedom with a heavy dose of firepower. Each level ends with a triumphant American flag raise and a helicopter extraction—because of course it does.
The setting spans war zones, alien hives, jungle bases, and even hell itself. Wherever there’s tyranny, the bros go charging in guns blazing.
Game Modes of Broforce
Whether you’re flying solo or battling alongside friends, the game offers a handful of modes to keep the action rolling:
- Campaign Mode: Fight through dozens of handcrafted levels, each filled with traps, enemies, and destructible environments.
- Co-op (Local and Online): Team up with up to three friends. Just be careful—friendly fire is always on!
- Arcade Mode: A faster-paced version of the campaign that dials up the challenge.
- Versus Mode: Face off against other players in free-for-all carnage.
- Level Editor: Build and share your own missions, complete with custom layouts and enemy placements.
Love creative tools? Crab Champions might be your jam—letting you build, share, and challenge others in your own custom platforming levels.
Gameplay Mechanics of Broforce
At its core, Broforce is all about high-speed chaos, pixel-perfect explosions, and unique character abilities. Here’s what makes it click:
- Hero Switching: Every time you rescue a bro, your character changes to a new one at random—each with their own weapon, movement, and special attack.
- Destructible Environments: Blow up everything—from floors to ceilings to enemy bunkers. The terrain is both your weapon and your obstacle.
- Fast Respawn: Die? No problem. Respawn as a new bro and keep the carnage going.
- Power-Based Combat: Some bros excel in range, others in melee. You’ll constantly need to adapt based on who you’ve got.
- Boss Fights and Set Pieces: From helicopter duels to Satan showdowns, the game doesn’t hold back on spectacle.
Beginner Tips and Tricks
New to the freedom-fueled madness? These tips will help you dominate early on:
- Learn Each Bro’s Strengths: Some are great with explosives, others with speed or melee. Knowing who does what makes a big difference in tight spots.
- Use the Environment: Don’t always engage enemies head-on—drop barrels, collapse platforms, or snipe from above.
- Save Bros Strategically: Rescuing a bro gives you an extra life, but it also changes your current character. Use that switch to your advantage.
- Go Slow When Needed: The game encourages speed, but rushing can backfire. Take time to scout explosive traps or enemy ambushes.
- Abuse Airstrikes and Special Attacks: Some bros have powerful one-use specials—don’t hesitate to clear entire screens with them.
For another pixelated action fix, give Batman: Arkham Knight a go—fast, stylish, and packed with slick swordplay and time-manipulating mechanics.
Key Features of Broforce
So what makes Broforce stand out from a sea of retro-inspired shooters? Let’s break it down:
1) Massive Roster of Bros
With over 30 playable characters, each modeled after iconic action heroes, Broforce offers an endless variety of gameplay. Every character comes with their own unique weapons, moves, and explosive personality. The roster keeps the game fresh and unpredictable, ensuring that no two runs are ever the same.
2) Fully Destructible Environments
Everything you see in Broforce can be obliterated. Walls, enemy fortifications, and even the ground beneath you are fair game. Whether you’re using grenades, explosives, or just a well-placed shot, you’ll quickly realize that destruction is key to success.
3) Fast-Paced Local and Online Co-op
Grab up to three friends for chaotic, fast-paced fun in either local or online co-op. The game’s frantic nature leads to a lot of laughs, but it also requires strategic teamwork to survive the onslaught of enemies. The combination of madness and cooperation creates an addictive experience that keeps players coming back for more.
4) Custom Level Creation
Unleash your creativity with the game’s robust level editor, allowing you to design your own stages. Challenge yourself or the global Broforce community to take on your creations. Custom levels offer endless replayability and a chance to show off your explosive design skills.
5) Slick, Retro Visuals with Modern Polish
The pixel art in Broforce is sharp, the animations are smooth, and the explosions are gloriously satisfying. The game combines the charm of classic retro visuals with modern polish, making it a visual treat for both nostalgia seekers and new players alike.
Advanced Tips for Mastery
Ready to go full Bro Mode? Here are a few advanced tricks to dominate harder levels:
- Use Enemies as Shields: Some characters can grab or stun enemies—use them to block bullets or take hits while you reposition.
- Chain Bro Rescues: Grab multiple bros back-to-back to rack up extra lives before a tough boss or trap-heavy section.
- Timed Explosives Tactically: Drop bombs or grenades behind walls or on upper levels to clear rooms before you enter.
- Jump + Melee Combos: Certain bros have unique mid-air or dash attacks. Use movement and verticality to your advantage.
- Revisit Old Levels: Unlock hidden bros by exploring levels thoroughly or tackling alternate paths.
Why Broforce Is a Cult Classic
What sets Broforce apart isn’t just the gameplay—it’s the unapologetic energy. Every level is a fireworks show of freedom, and every bro is a hilarious tribute to action cinema’s most over-the-top moments. It walks the perfect line between parody and genuine fun.
Whether you’re playing for five minutes or five hours, the game’s quick levels, constant variety, and explosive humor make it hard to put down. It’s the kind of game you show your friends just to hear them laugh at the name “B.A. Broracus.”
System Requirements
If you’re jumping in on PC, here’s what you’ll need:
- OS: Windows Vista or later
- Processor: Intel Core Duo or faster
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Graphics: OpenGL 3.0 compliant video card
- Storage: 1300 MB available space
Broforce doesn’t just bring the boom—it brings the bros. Whether you’re craving couch co-op madness or a single-player run packed with explosions, there’s no better place to suit up, shout “FREEDOM,” and dive into pixelated glory.
