Time will tell if the development team fills the holes it needs to for this game to become a true retelling of Solo Leveling, or if it remains more about fan service.
Of Ash and Steel is a truly fascinating world and experience that absolutely has merit.
Critiques are truly minimal in this case, mainly just about how Umami could have been expanded just a bit further in terms of gameplay without sacrificing its pacing or overall tone of sensory relaxation. I genuinely look forward to seeing more from this studio.
Like its predecessor, Tormented Souls 2 still struggles with storytelling and character elements that just don't quite hit the mark. While it doesn't go as deep as I would like, above all else, it still serves its grandest purpose with all the passion you could ask for.
Empire of the Ants is a welcome breath of fresh forest air in a genre that can always benefit from more nature-based simulators, and sets a well-earned standard for those looking to achieve a similar vision. The story is an enjoyable 20 or so hours inside a world that is fascinating to explore, and I think Bernard Werber would be proud of what Tower Five has accomplished.
In the world of city-builder games, the Frostpunk franchise stands proudly at the snow-capped peak of Mount Everest in terms of what definitively is the most all-around challenging IP in the genre. Frostpunk 2 easily helps it keep that title in a tight-gloved fist, with its incredibly intricate game design and uncompromising difficulty that is best suited for the most fearless and ambitious of Stewards.
Nonetheless, TEVI is not only a super fun and well-constructed addition to the metroidvania niche, I think it’s also definitely helping to usher forth the modernized 2D side-scroller renaissance that’s breathing new life into the most classic format of gaming. Development teams across the globe are contributing more and more to it, and I’m so glad to see that CreSpirit is continuing to do what they do best, and having little Tevi lead the way.
All in all, Party Animals brings a unique and adorably new experience to the table in the world of online multiplayer brawlers, helping contribute to a niche of that genre that is growing increasingly popular. While not absolutely groundbreaking, the game definitely brings a clever formula of its own making that is well-curated, clearly made with love, and incredibly enjoyable to play. There are plenty of laughs that get thrown around with just as many punches, and whether you want to be top dog (or cat, or goose, etc) is entirely up to you.