

Otherwise, puzzles are mostly traversal-based, and almost platformer-esque in places. I'm unconvinced that multiple planets use the same electricity systems, and eventually you can become weary of following yellow lines around. There's an electricity puzzle where you interact with terminals to redirect the flow that's introduced pretty early on and then very overused. But, there's definitely an element of the puzzles being pretty repetitive. Rocket can hack terminals and Groot can lift platforms. Drax, for example, can lift and move hefty objects, while Gamora can leap up to high places to give you a boost. You can use these specific skills to solve puzzles in the world outside of battle too. There are some moments where I would have appreciated a touch more variety in the enemy types and the ways to use the skills, but it's mostly a great experience. Strategizing and reacting is great fun, and there are boss battles where you'll need to think carefully about what to do when. This all plays out in combat that always feels like you're fully in control. It's essential too, as not using the team's abilities can see you flatlining all too regularly, especially if you don't combo this up with Star-Lord's own abilities, including his elemental blasters. Or using Groot to wrap his roots around a group of enemies before using Rocket's bombs on them en masse.

For example, using Drax to diminish a stagger bar, before sending in Gamora to deal high-level damage. There's a great strategy element in figuring out how to take down the more powerful enemies, or when to unleash certain moves when you're feeling overrun.


Each of the Guardians has a unique set of skills that you can call upon in battle, commanding them almost RTS-style to use a specific ability on a certain enemy. Leadership will always have an effect in combat.
