Matt Miller
A rich fantasy characterized by deeply troubling themes, imagery, dialogue, and actions
Constant text-reading and unusual imagery are delights to speculative-fiction lovers, but others may be confounded
Strong voice acting recalls the movie version of these characters, but the humor and battles lack punch
Thrilling at first for Star Trek faithful, but lacks the depth for long-term engagement
The second episode is better paced and more engaging than the opener, but still struggles under its own technical limitations
One of the most challenging and rewarding twin stick shooters ever made
Pyre is a lengthy sojourn into a surprising setting, with gameplay focused on a thrilling, smartly balanced battle sport
With a focus on the way characters' pasts shape their future, the third episode is the most impactful so far
A riveting campaign adventure that ably transitions into a cyclical game of progression, cooperation, and competition
You are a merciless tornado of ruin touching down in an unforgiving world of battle and domination, and embracing that unfettered power is a joy
Higher emotional stakes lend weight that pulls back from the levity these characters are known for
This open world has plenty of racing content, but bad progression, technical problems, and throwaway storytelling make it hard to get invested
After a shaky start to the season-wrapping episode, the final minutes offer a satisfying conclusion
The storytelling lacks punch, the new play spaces aren't used to their full potential, and the endgame loop still has problems, but Curse of Osiris has more under the hood than first appears
The simple presentation belies a deep and engaging gameplay loop that unfolds over multiple playthroughs, as new unlocks completely change required tactics
A richly imagined seafaring setting lends novelty to what is ultimately an evolved iteration of very traditional isometric RPG fun
An abbreviated campaign is entertaining but limited in scope, while the subsequent pursuits are tailored to a satisfying if glacial curve of powering up
An invigorating shot in the arm to the Destiny franchise, this jam-packed release is absorbing for hobbyist players, even as it sometimes sacrifices accessibility
An engaging entry point into space combat and exploration, with just enough sophistication to be attractive to some veteran pilots
A deep progression system isn't enough to save these survivors from repetitive and poorly balanced missions