Jon Scarr's Reviews
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate mixes roguelike action with TMNT’s classic style. Each Turtle’s unique abilities, co-op mode, and randomized levels keep gameplay fresh. The dynamic visuals and high replay value add to the experience, making Splintered Fate a great fit for TMNT fans and roguelike enthusiasts alike.
Lost Eidolons is a turn-based tactical RPG that draws players into a medieval fantasy world torn by war. With grid-based combat, a morally complex story, and intricate strategy mechanics, it’s a journey for fans who enjoy detailed planning and decision-making. Minor technical issues aside, it’s a worthwhile adventure for tactical RPG enthusiasts.
Ashen is an indie action RPG that combines minimalist design with a compelling story and engaging gameplay. You explore a desolate world filled with secrets and challenges as you seek friendship and light. While some combat can feel repetitive at times, the overall experience is rewarding and memorable.
Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged delivers an enjoyable racing experience with tight controls and creative tracks. The upgraded track editor and accessibility options add to the experience. While minor technical issues exist, the game offers plenty of fun for both new and returning players.
Ghostwire: Tokyo immerses you in a hauntingly empty Tokyo, where Japanese folklore blends with a modern cityscape. Instead of traditional weapons, you take on ghosts using unique elemental powers. Despite some repetitive combat and minor performance issues, Ghostwire: Tokyo offers a memorable supernatural adventure.
Metal Slug Tactics takes the classic run-and-gun gameplay and turns it into a tactical, turn-based experience. The game features roguelite elements, making each playthrough feel different and encourages you to try new strategies. While some mission objectives can feel repetitive, the beautiful pixel art and engaging gameplay make it a worthwhile addition to the Metal Slug series.
The Resident Evil 4 brings a new intensity to this survival horror classic. Enhanced visuals, updated gameplay, and careful story adjustments make it a must-play for any horror fan. Capcom’s use of the RE Engine delivers a hauntingly immersive experience, from environmental details to chilling soundscapes. Whether you’re revisiting Leon’s mission or encountering it for the first time, this remake offers everything you could want from a modern horror game.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered takes an already iconic game and makes it even better, thanks to updated graphics, improved NPC animations, and added haptics that enhance immersion. While the core gameplay stays the same, the refinements make Aloy’s world feel richer than ever. This remaster is perfect for newcomers and a fresh experience for returning players.
Life Is Strange: Double Exposure brings Max Caulfield back in a meaningful way, showing her as a more grown-up character at Caledon University. The game skillfully mixes an intriguing mystery with tough moral choices, letting you make decisions that really matter. With a strong story, well-rounded characters, and beautiful graphics, it keeps the spirit of the original while adding new elements. While there are a few minor technical hiccups, the overall experience is emotionally powerful and a must-play for fans of the series.
The Black Ops 6 campaign takes the franchise to new heights, blending intense gunplay with a story that refuses to let up. Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is a worthy addition to any COD fan’s collection and a must-play for shooter enthusiasts.
Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven is a remake that beautifully blends classic JRPG elements with modern gameplay features. You take on the role of various characters across generations as they face off against seven former heroes who have now become villains. The game’s unique gameplay mechanic, known as the Inheritance System, allows you to pass down skills from one character to the next. While the graphics and music are impressive, the story is a bit simplistic. However, if you enjoy a good challenge, the overall experience is definitely enjoyable.
MechWarrior 5: Clans offers a mix of intense mech battles and character-driven storytelling. You play as Jayden, a rookie pilot leading a team against the Great House Lords. While the game features impressive customization options and engaging combat, some missions can feel repetitive and the story has familiar clichés. Overall, it’s a solid addition to the series that balances action and story, making it enjoyable for both new and returning fans.
Open Roads is a heartfelt game that takes you on a road trip with Tess and her mother, Opal, as they uncover family secrets. The game focuses on the emotional depth of their relationship and with its simple controls and a minimalistic art style, it encourages you to reflect on your own connections while making choices that shape the story. If you enjoy games that prioritize storytelling and character development, Open Roads offers a memorable experience that stays with you long after you finish playing.
Ys X: Nordics is the latest entry in the action RPG series that introduces ship exploration and dual-character combat. You control Adol and his companion Karja, as you make your way through a Norse-inspired world. The game features enjoyable combat mechanics and a well-paced story filled with memorable characters and side quests. While the visuals and soundtrack are great, the voice acting is a mixed bag. Overall, Ys X: Nordics is a solid addition that fans will appreciate.
The Last of Us Part 1 is a faithful remake that visually and mechanically upgrades the original, making it the definitive way to experience this post-apocalyptic adventure. The emotional journey of Joel and Ellie is as powerful as ever, backed by exciting gameplay and amazing visuals. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning player, The Last of Us Part I is a must-play.
Metaphor: ReFantazio delivers a deeply immersive experience with tactical combat and a richly imagined world. Fans of Persona will appreciate its familiar themes, but with a twist: deeper strategy and high-fantasy elements. With its impressive visuals and complex combat mechanics, Metaphor stands as a strong entry in Atlus’ RPG legacy. While the pacing may drag in spots, the overall experience is rewarding and offers significant replay value for genre fans.
Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero revitalizes the iconic series with fast-paced combat, a rich character selection, and engaging multiplayer modes. Featuring polished visuals and balanced mechanics, it builds on its predecessors with seamless controls and cinematic finishers. The story mode is filled with nostalgic moments, while multiplayer enhances the competitive spirit. Though the gameplay is solid, minor pacing issues and a learning curve can be a challenge for new players.
South of the Circle follows Peter’s journey in Antarctica as he reflects on love, duty, and survival. The minimalist style enhances the story’s focus. Though short and light on mechanics, it delivers a thoughtful, lasting experience
Until Dawn (2024) gives a fresh look to the 2015 PS4 horror classic. It uses Unreal Engine 5 beautiful graphics, smooth animations, and an eerie atmosphere. While the main story and gameplay remain pretty much the same, the updates make it feel new, especially for fans of choice-driven horror. If you loved the original, the new details and choices are worth checking out, but the core story is still mostly the same.
Silent Hill 2 remake successfully brings the classic horror game into the modern era with stunning graphics and improved sound. You play as James Sunderland as he searches for his missing wife in a town filled with disturbing creatures and dark secrets. While the gameplay features some unnecessary padding and backtracking, it still maintains the original’s themes of guilt and trauma. Overall, this remake honours the legacy of the original while offering a fresh experience for both new players and fans.