The console debut of Age of Mythology: Retold is welcome, as it's an interesting, fun, and long-lasting RTS. The gameplay changes introduced are convincing and expand the original experience without altering its essence. However, on Xbox machines, the adaptation of controls to a pad is somewhat awkward, sacrificing the intuitive PC control system. It's not unplayable but will require extra effort to master. Fans of the genre should consider this a recommended purchase.
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Honestly, sometimes I don't understand how certain productions, not even very successful, can become huge hits on PC. That's what I thought while playing The Mortuary Assistant: Definitive Edition, which, despite offering peculiar gameplay, didn't feel as explosive as its PC fame suggests. Beyond a gameplay loop that quickly exhausts its tricks, the sense of terror diminishes once you realize you're never in real danger. The fragmented experience also dilutes the interesting story, requiring patience to repeat the same tasks.
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House of Golf 2 is a pleasant surprise for arcade mini-golf fans. With fun gameplay, creative holes, and convincing physics, Starlight Games' title captures attention and offers hours of entertainment. Although the lack of game modes and poor Italian localization are limits, it's a great choice for those seeking a simple and immediate experience. If you enjoy arcade games and aren't too demanding about content, House of Golf 2 could be for you.
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If you enjoy Telltale's approach to graphic adventures (though not reaching the heights of The Walking Dead), you won't be disappointed by Sam & Max: The Devil’s Playhouse Remastered. The return of the two detectives retains the spirit of the third posthumous season, combining the five episodes from 2010 into one package. Despite maintaining all its original gameplay issues, it boasts a polished technical aspect that modernizes this vision of the duo created by Steve Purcell. A complete and interesting package for those wanting to (re)experience the crazy situations only a detective dog and a psychotic rabbit can.
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Don't be fooled by Phantom Spark's seemingly simple gameplay; it's as fun as it is straightforward. Borrowing elements from F-Zero, Trackmania, and Thumper, Ghosts' title is a hymn to speed and skill, an irresistible draw for those seeking the perfect lap time. Without unnecessary frills and power-ups, it maximizes the player's abilities, leading to a loop where the search for the perfect trajectory makes all the difference between victory and defeat. Simple to approach, hard to master, and highly satisfying.
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BUY IT! Seriously, I'm not kidding. Ten letters and an exclamation mark, plus having written it six times already, should be enough to convince you to spend 9.99 Euros on Doom + Doom II. If you don't, you might as well throw your console in the trash. Opening your wallet will get you two of the best video games ever created, in their most complete edition ever. To partially quote an old print review from the original release: if you don't like Doom + Doom II, you don't understand video games.
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As stated at the outset, for Hidden Through Time 2: Discovery, I could have reused the previous review, but that would not have been fair to the development team's efforts. They worked hard to offer a series of new levels for our pixel-hunting pleasure. While everything changes to remain the same, the game offers a light and fun experience. More like an add-on than a new episode, it's perfect for a few relaxing hours during this hot summer, a perfect appetizer while waiting for more substantial productions.
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Visually stunning and with its own personality, Cygni: All Guns Blazing represents an interesting approach to the shoot 'em up genre. While the narrative efforts are not very convincing, the gameplay and presentation shine. With unique mechanics and a tactical touch, the visual presentation brings spectacular firefights to life. The overall longevity is not stellar (a common genre flaw), and the ability to shoot at the ground is marginal, but the Scottish team's debut is highly convincing.
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Looking for a classic survival horror set in an original and well-defined setting? Then you should not avoid Conscript, which effectively and modernly incorporates elements from the genre's past. With a powerful and well-executed setting, plus an additional strong gameplay, Jordan Mochi's title also benefits from a refined indirect characterization. The enemy AI is sometimes inconsistent (except for the human blood-sniffing rats!) and the backtracking is quite invasive, but Conscript impresses positively in terms of quality and fun. Give it a chance; you won't regret it!
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During my roughly 5 hours with Indika, I constantly wondered where Odd Meter was heading, given its sudden shifts in progression. Despite occasionally unclear situations, the overall result was very enjoyable, thanks to a story filled with contrasts and struggles. While the mix isn't always perfect due to some technical stumbles, it's a less predictable narrative adventure worth experiencing.
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Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess reminded me of the 128-bit era when the gaming scene wasn't all about chasing success at any cost. Capcom’s title stands out by being unconventional, yet polished and fun. Don't be intimidated by its tight gameplay flow; the surprises from Osaka will impress you at every turn. Backed by excellent technical and gameplay elements, it’s a must-have for Japanese game lovers and those tired of repetitive productions.
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There's not much to say about Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III, as it retains its original incarnation despite some modern improvements. Bub and Bob's third adventure remains incredibly enjoyable and fun. While more bonus material would have been nice, the affordable price makes it a satisfying purchase. It's a game to replay if you loved it in the past or discover if you missed it on older hardware.
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If you grew up between the '70s and '80s and love robotic anime, Megaton Musashi W: Wired is the realization of that childhood dream. Level-5 has turned a mecha series into a long-lasting, fun game with plenty of customization options. With a more intriguing story than expected and solid, albeit repetitive, gameplay, it's a content-rich production and a tribute to Japanese animation. A game that was once unimaginable to see in the West, deserving of your attention.
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Exo One is a unique and intriguing journey worth your attention. Rolling, gliding, and flying across planets towards Jupiter delivers tangible emotions despite some control issues. Putting these aside, the game offers a whispered, ethereal story with evocative presentation. Exbleative's work captures those willing to dive into the cosmos' depths.
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The console version of Horizon Chase 2 kept us waiting, but after spending a significant number of hours with it (which will surely increase), I can confirm it was well worth the wait. Aside from some minor general simplifications, Aquiris' new work expands and improves on its predecessor's solid foundations, delivering a highly enjoyable and long-lasting arcade racing game. The single-player campaign is satisfying and substantial, complemented by a multiplayer component that now goes beyond local play, finally embracing online gaming. With a good car selection and impactful technical execution, Horizon Chase 2 is a must-play for arcade racing fans.
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It's said that the anticipation of pleasure is itself pleasure, but after playing System Shock Remake, I'm thrilled to have finally enjoyed the original title developed by Spector and Looking Glass. The game appears in top form even on consoles, as if the 30 years it carries were just a fleeting moment, with design and gameplay aging beautifully. Engaging, long-lasting, and incredibly fun, System Shock Remake is a must-have for immersive sim lovers and those seeking a timeless adventure. The transition from PC to console made some aspects slightly clunkier, but if that's the price to pay to challenge SHODAN again, who are we to complain?
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With Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, Ninja Theory continues their strongly auteur path, proudly advancing their unique series with this logical and predictable sequel. The new adventure of Senua doesn't stray from its past, at least gameplay-wise, limiting innovations and confining itself to being "better seen than played." The overwhelming beauty of the audiovisual production, despite evident compromises, stands as the most impressive on consoles today. Some will undoubtedly complain about the lack of interactivity, bland combat, and self-serving puzzles, but if viewed as a purely narrative experience with strong cinematic elements, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 will satisfy those seeking such an experience.
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With Jack Holmes: Master of Puppets, Antonio Esparcia Ibarra has delivered a highly respectable horror game that entertains and scares those who give it a chance. After about 5 hours needed to complete the adventure, it's hard to believe it was developed by a single person, given its surprising and inventive gameplay. While the absence of a larger development team and budget constraints occasionally show, Jack Holmes: Master of Puppets deserves to be played by survival horror fans for effectively embodying the genre's standards. I'm curious to see what TonyDevGame will bring next, hoping for better production values.
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Soul Covenant made me quite angry, as it failed to do justice to an interesting VR concept, resulting in an underwhelming experience. The script, a crucial element for a JRPG, was particularly lacking. The repetitive gameplay quickly reveals all its cards, but it remains fun and visually impressive. While it could have done more, Soul Covenant can still please those seeking a functional and unpretentious title.
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Saying I didn't enjoy Mixture would be false and unfair to Played With Fire's title. Sola and the Alchemist's adventure was fun and engaging, though it was marred by technical and conceptual issues that prevented it from being unforgettable. It's regrettable what it could have been with a bigger budget, but there's hope for a more successful sequel. I'd be happy to see that.
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