Last Dream Fishing Arcade while simple, is a nice little fishing game to dabble in from time to time. In today’s gaming lingo, it might be considered a “loading game,” something to play while waiting for a bigger, more demanding title to install. While it doesn’t reinvent the fishing game formula, I can’t deny that it offers a pleasant escape, especially after a stressful day. It’s the kind of game that allows you to switch off your brain and enjoy a peaceful, low-stakes gaming experience. For the price of entry, it’s well worth checking out, particularly if you’re a fan of fishing games or just looking for something relaxing to play in short bursts
Shogun Showdown is a dangerously addictive roguelike but in the best way possible. Its challenging but fair gameplay encourages you to learn from your mistakes, and the more you play, the more you’ll improve. It’s perfect for fans of the genre, but its quick play sessions and easy-to-understand mechanics also make it a great choice for gamers who are short on time. Don’t be deceived by the simple pixel art. Shogun Showdown offers a deep, rewarding experience that’s well worth exploring. The game excels at delivering satisfying, strategic gameplay that keeps you coming back for more. A free demo is available on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
Yars Rising is a fantastic action-adventure game that brings back the charm of the original while adding fresh, modern gameplay elements. WayForward’s signature style is evident throughout, from the humour and exploration to the engaging combat and clever hacking mini-games. While the stealth sections may not appeal to everyone, the overall experience is compelling, especially with its excellent performance and polished presentation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Yars’ Revenge or new to the series, Yars Rising is well worth your time.
Crossy Road Castle successfully captures the pick-up-and-play ease and addictive nature of the original Crossy Road while presenting it in a new platformer design that’s both welcoming to newcomers and engaging for experienced players. Whether you’re playing alone or with friends, there’s something in this game for everyone to enjoy. For me, it’s a game that brings together all the best elements of mobile gaming and adapts them brilliantly to modern consoles.
Cylinder: Puzzles Returned is a solid puzzle game that offers a range of modes to suit different types of players. Whether you prefer the slower, more thoughtful pace of Adventure Mode, the fast-paced action of Endless Mode, or the competitive thrill of multiplayer, there’s something here for everyone. While Cylinder doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, it offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience that puzzle fans will appreciate. It may not stick with you as much as other iconic puzzle games, but it’s still a worthy addition to any puzzle lover’s library and a great option for your next game night.
Gimmick! 2 is everything a sequel to the original classic should be. It takes the core elements that made the first game special and builds on them with refined graphics, improved level design, and a charming presentation that outshines the original in every way. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel or introduce groundbreaking new ideas, it does what it sets out to do exceptionally well. This is an easy recommendation for fans of retro platformers, and I’d even go as far as to recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good gaming experience.
In the end, Shadow of the Ninja Reborn is a game that knows exactly what it wants to be. It’s a love letter to the challenging, no-nonsense games of the NES era, complete with all the frustrations and triumphs that come with that territory. The beautiful new graphics and satisfying ninja action make it a pleasure to look at and play, at least for those who have the patience to see it through. However, it’s not without its flaws. The controls could have been modernized, particularly when it comes to the more complex ninja moves, and the decision to force players to manage items in real-time during combat feels like an unnecessary nod to retro difficulty. A younger version of myself, with more time and patience, would have adored this game and relished the challenge of mastering its every nuance. But as I’ve grown older, I find myself with less tolerance for games that demand such a high level of dedication. That said, I still appreciate what the developers have achieved here, and I believe that retro purists will love this game for its authenticity and challenge. Casual players, however, might want to think twice before diving in.
Treasure Journey is okay. Not amazing, but there’s fun to be found. Navigating through the islands, you’ll find yourself immersed in a variety of clever puzzles that require both strategy and patience. The simplicity of the graphics doesn’t detract from the enjoyment; instead, it allows you to focus on the satisfying challenge of solving each puzzle. Treasure Journey proves that sometimes, a good puzzle and a touch of adventure are all you need for a delightful gaming experience.
Castaway may be short and may not bring much new to the table in terms of gameplay, but it has a lot of charm. From its nostalgic pixel design to its variety of difficulty settings, Castaway offers a pleasant gaming experience perfect for a warm summer weekend. Whether you’re playing alone or sharing the game with a younger player, the adventure feels worthwhile despite its brevity. Here’s hoping the game finds an audience so we can see more from this developer in the future.
Just Crow Things is another fantastic effort from Unbound Creations. The controls are easy to pick up, making the game accessible to all ages, and the overall experience is a sheer joy to play. Whether you’re soaring through the sky or causing crow-style chaos, the game keeps you entertained from start to finish. It’s worth noting that the casual nature of the gameplay might not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for a more challenging experience. However, this is a game designed to be fun, to make you laugh, and maybe even to share that experience with a loved one. I’m incredibly happy with the time I spent playing Just Crow Things, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted, uplifting game.
Dice & Fold is extremely addictive. I mostly played the game on Steam Deck, where I could use the touch screen to drag and drop dice. I picked this game up expecting a run-of-the-mill roguelike, but before I knew it, 10 hours had passed, and my hair was more grey. The graphics may be a bit bland, but Dice & Fold absolutely nails its gameplay. Easily one of the best roguelikes I’ve played this year. Highly recommended.
Overall, I like Guayota. The game takes a different approach by drawing on lesser-known mythology and offering an experimental style of puzzle-solving that is incredibly rewarding, especially when you have the space to take in the level and figure things out on your own. What didn’t click for me was the aggressive use of traps and hazards, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, while the dark cave settings contribute to the game’s atmosphere, they can sometimes make it difficult to see what you’re doing. Despite these issues, Guayota is well worth trying if you’re open to something new and different and enjoy puzzle games. It may not be perfect, but its unique approach and rewarding gameplay make it a standout in the puzzle genre. A free demo is available on the Nintendo eShop if you want to try it out.
Star Wars Bounty Hunter successfully revives a beloved classic, delivering an experience that combines nostalgia with a few modern enhancements. The game’s engaging combat, updated visuals, and authentic Star Wars atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of the franchise and action-adventure enthusiasts. Despite some repetitive elements and a lack of significant new features, Star Wars Bounty Hunter remains a solid addition to the Star Wars gaming universe. The re-release manages to capture the essence of the original while offering a fresh and polished experience for those trying for the first time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Jango Fett or new to the galaxy far, far away, Star Wars Bounty Hunter is still an old but good time.
Hannah’s Day is a cosy puzzler you can likely complete over the weekend. Its focus on a follow-your-dreams narrative and simple puzzles make it perfect for casual players. While the story didn’t entirely hit the mark for me, its positive message is one we can all get behind. Whether or not you decide to pick up the skateboard and ride with Hannah, her journey is a pleasant one. There is a free demo available on Steam to try out.
Valley Peaks is a climb up the mountain I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I did. Its unique climbing mechanics make each ascent a satisfying challenge, even when things don’t go to plan. After completing each mountain, I was eager to tackle another route or simply take in the experience of exploring the valley and chatting with NPCs, something not all games compel me to do. If you’re looking for a relaxing climbing game where you might learn a little about yourself in the process, I highly recommend Valley Peaks. A free demo is available on Steam for you to try out.
Abathor is old arcade action at its best. Rich, detailed levels with satisfying combat and platforming make this well worth picking up for anyone looking to take on its challenge. It’s certainly a challenge that may feel harsh to some players, but old-school arcade players would likely not have it any other way. For me, it felt like a game that took the excitement and instant gratification of an arcade game but felt appropriately adapted for modern players. Throw four players into the mix, and you have your next fantasy game night. Wearing costumes is optional. A free demo is available on Steam.
Stolen Hearts: Wolf Knight is a charming and challenging platformer that showcases the developer’s passion and creativity. While its difficulty might deter some casual players, those who enjoy precision platformers will find plenty to love. The adorable heart creatures, inventive level design, and satisfying mechanics make it a game worth experiencing. Whether you’re in it for the thrill of perfecting your runs or simply to enjoy the quirky, heartwarming adventure, Stolen Hearts: Wolf Knight is a gem that stands out in the crowded platformer genre. Just be prepared to face the Wolf King and maybe a few frustrating jumps along the way. A free demo of the game is available on Steam.
The Land Beneath Us ended up being a wonderful surprise for me. It is a clever mix of gameplay that plays like a classic dungeon crawler but adds clever mechanics to make the formula feel fresh and new. It has a great weapon upgrade system, a hefty amount of new moves and upgrades to unlock and addictive gameplay that’s very hard to put down. If you absolutely detest rogue-lite games, then maybe this won’t be the case for you. But if you are new to or experienced in this genre, then The Land Beneath Us gets a thumbs up from me on Nintendo Switch.
Cyber Citizen Shockman Zero is a solid retro platformer. Despite its age, it still offers plenty of fun. While it may not be the best in the series, it’s a great starting point for newcomers. With all four games now available on the Nintendo Switch, it’s worth considering for your next retro game night, especially if you can share the experience with a friend.
Overall, this is easily the best way to enjoy Parasol Stars on modern systems. For me, it’s probably not the strongest game in the Bubble Bobble trilogy. But in no way dismisses all the elements this game gets right. It is an upbeat action arcade game that you can enjoy alone or with a loved one. An art style that explodes positivity. And, of course, a few quality-of-life improvements to make this version of the game welcoming to old and new fans alike. If it’s raining outside, consider your next retro gaming session sorted.