Jake Valentine


36 games reviewed
79.6 average score
81 median score
63.9% of games recommended
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9 / 10.0 - Avowed
Feb 21, 2025

Avowed isn't what I expected, but I loved every second. It's the type of game I'll gladly play through again and again, a feat made easier by its somewhat short runtime.

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Feb 16, 2025

There's a fantastic game somewhere in Civ 7 that I'll easily spend 1,000+ hours with. Even in its current state, I can see myself playing this for years to come, though nowhere near as much as I did with Civ 6. There are too many frustrating issues that need addressing. At least that's what I keep telling myself, only to come back to boot up another game. Firaxis made a gigantic gamble with the changes to Leaders and Ages, and somehow, it paid off. If they can improve the game's flaws with future updates, we'll have another iconic entry in the legendary 4X strategy series.

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Jan 27, 2025

Ninja Gaiden 2 Black reminds us why the franchise was formerly the gold standard for 3D action. It's fast, furious, and a bloody good time. I can't think of a better way to prepare for Ninja Gaiden 4.

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Jan 24, 2025

Donkey Kong Country Returns is still a fantastic game today. The fact that it stands tall compared to other platformers is a testament to the original release's quality. However, this is the third re-release the game has seen in 15 years, and this one carries a $60 price tag with virtually no new content.

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9 / 10.0 - Marvel Rivals
Dec 6, 2024

In its current state, Marvel Rivals is an absolute blast, no matter what role you play. The roster is balanced surprisingly well, especially since three heroes were added very close to public release.

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9.5 / 10.0 - Anomaly Agent
Jan 31, 2024

In a world where most hyped releases feel underbaked, Anomaly Agent delivers.

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Oct 10, 2023

Assassin's Creed Mirage returns the franchise to its roots in an enjoyable, albeit uneven, gameplay experience. While the story and parkour are disappointing, the city of Baghdad is a delight, and the stealth gameplay is satisfying.

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Jun 16, 2022

Super Mario Strikers is the best Mario sports game for Nintendo Switch yet, but it still feels like style over substance.

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May 5, 2022

Nintendo Switch Sports is a solid experience for those nostalgic for the days of Wii Sports. It's lacking in depth and variety, but you'll still be able to get plenty of enjoyment out of it.

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Apr 3, 2022

Kirby and the Forgotten Land is easily the best game the franchise has seen. It's an absolute delight from start to finish, filled with imaginative platforming and clever puzzles. With Forgotten Land, Nintendo has finally delivered the definitive Kirby experience.

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9.2 / 10.0 - Tunic
Mar 20, 2022

Tunic is a beautiful game. Its gorgeous visuals, moving soundtrack, and charming environments lure you into a world of mystery and wonder. Exploring each environment is an absolute delight and the challenges that await you are ready to be overcome and defeated.

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Feb 6, 2022

Pokémon Legends: Arceus is a legitimately good game, but it could have been so much more. The franchise has the breath of fresh air it so desperately needs, resulting in enjoyable and addictive gameplay in the wild of the Hisui region. Sadly, the game loves to also hold itself back, with a poor presentation, average visuals, and the same tried and true combat.

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Jan 23, 2022

Nobody Saves the World is an enjoyable action RPG with an excellent combat and class system. It doesn't always hit its stride, but when it does, there are few games out there that can compare.

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10 / 10.0 - Unpacking
Jan 2, 2022

Unpacking may take only a handful of hours to complete, but it stays with you for far longer. A beautiful, emotional, and unforgettable story awaits beyond a simple and calming puzzle-solving experience. Simply put, this is one of the best games of 2021.

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9.5 / 10.0 - Forza Horizon 5
Nov 22, 2021

Forizon Horizon 5 is the near-perfection of the franchise. Everything from past titles has been built up to this moment. A memorable location, unforgettable set pieces, solid and addictive gameplay, a killer soundtrack, and gorgeous visuals. One of the best games of 2021.

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9.7 / 10.0 - Doom
Jun 4, 2016

DOOM has no business being a good game, yet it may end of being one of 2016's best.

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Nov 25, 2015

Star Wars Battlefront may not be perfect, but it's still better than trade negotiations.

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9.2 / 10.0 - Far Cry 4
Dec 15, 2014

Far Cry 4 doesn't do much to differentiate itself from its predecessor, but it doesn't necessarily have to.

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4 / 10.0 - Driveclub
Oct 15, 2014

The entire time I spent playing Driveclub was time I wish I spent elsewhere.

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If you're itching for a digital card game, Hearthstone is ready and waiting. If you're interested in Magic: the Gathering, head on over to your local game store and inquire about learning the game.