Benjamin Bell's Reviews
Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream is a simple yet fun simulation game that fully doubles down on the bizarre and provides players with an island canvas to create nearly anything they can imagine. How much enjoyment one can get out of the game completely hinges on your own creativity, and those willing to invest their time will simply have a better experience. It is a slow burn, however, and players wanting instant gratification will not find it here. Instead, Living the Dream encourages players to stop by each day and live this life with the Miis themselves, simply enjoying the ride.
Blue Reflection is a gloomy yet cozy high school life simulator with a touch of escapism. While its underused RPG mechanics had the potential to be great, they ultimately fall flat due to how simplistic the game truly is. Although not everyone will be able to relate to its story, the narrative is what makes the title worth experiencing and is the primary reason one should consider playing. However, if taking on the role of a high schooler and encountering school drama isn't up your alley, then this one will not be for you.
Subliminal: Episode I is a fun, yet short, little experience. While it isn't perfect, the unique setting ripped directly from our childhoods is an instant blast of nostalgia, and the story is interesting enough to see through to its conclusion. Unfortunately, there are very few answers here, but this is only the beginning, and I personally look forward to seeing what is to come.
Spica Adventure is pure arcade action bliss! With its kaleidoscope of colors, wacky enemy designs, and a surprisingly complex and satisfying combat system, it is easy to see why so many arcade-goers were addicted. If you are someone who enjoys shorter experiences and loves shooting for the high score in classic-styled arcade games, then there is no reason not to give this one a chance. It is just... fun!
Resident Evil Requiem is a masterclass in survival horror. It expertly blends the classic style with more action-oriented outings, features outstanding stage design, and contains some of the most interesting zombies ever seen in a video game. Capcom has proven itself yet again; one can’t help but feel a bit sad when the credits roll—not because of the story, but because you know you’ll never get to experience this game for the first time again. It is truly something special.
Never 7: The End of Infinity isn't a bad visual novel by any means, but it also isn't anything too special. With most of the game being taken up by generic slice-of-life moments, it isn't until the Cure routes come into play that the true plot reveals itself. While there are some interesting questions brought up along the way, the game is ultimately a product of its time that was surpassed by both the writer's and director's future works.
Neopets: Mega Mini Games Collection – The Neopian Arcade Odyssey is a difficult title to recommend. While it features a handful of addictive mini games, the appeal is inconsistent, and many of these titles exist in more "complete" versions elsewhere. However, the 2000s-infused aesthetic carries a certain charm that is bound to trigger nostalgia. This collection is likely a must-have for active Neopets members looking to farm daily rewards, but it offers very little for anyone else besides fans.
Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor greatly surpassed my expectations. While it plays on nostalgia, the core gameplay is a full-on simulator that is a railfan's dream come true! With a massive amount of content that takes hundreds of hours to complete, this package offers much more than meets the eye and should not be overlooked. It is also a great title for children to watch, though parents will definitely need to be the ones behind the controls.
FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE is a haunting, modernized tribute to the golden age of survival horror. By blending rich Japanese folklore with its signature photography-based combat, the game forces players to confront their fears head on as they unravel the dark mysteries of the Lost Village. Though its steep learning curve isn't for everyone, the game is an unforgettable experience, and those who survive the village may find themselves drawn back to its beautiful, terrifying world time and time again.
Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered expertly blends the gameplay of Blood Omen and Soul Reaver while retaining the same masterclass in storytelling the series is known for. While its PS2 roots are still on display, the new camera angle paints the entire experience in a new light, making it a title both fans and newcomers will not want to miss.
BlazBlue Entropy Effect X is the definitive version of 2023’s addictive roguelike. While the previous release had few connections to the overall series, the expanded story by the original writers is a highly welcomed addition. Narrative aside, the solid gameplay is what will truly hook players and keep them coming back for more.
Ys X: Proud Nordics is easily one of the best entries in the series, period. From the solid gameplay to the ocean exploration, this story of Adol, Karja, and their crew is engaging from start to finish, and one can't help but get a bit misty-eyed at the thought of saying goodbye.
ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What initially feels like a standard, run-of-the-mill action game quickly evolves into a completely off-the-wall adventure that continues to surprise players from beginning to end. Even when the credits roll, you can't help but ask yourself what you just played—while knowing full well it was Suda51’s best action outing to date.
Anima: Gate of Memories I & II Remastered is a fun callback to the adventure games of days gone by. Players can easily immerse themselves in its unique, dark world filled with mysteries, but it is the exploration that will keep them coming back for more.
BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is an unforgettable chapter in the series that tackles multiple serious themes. The subject matter is something many players will relate to in one way or another, and the twisted manifestations of the protagonist’s traumas will leave players questioning reality. With spot-on environmental storytelling and an intriguing underlying mystery, this is an entry that both fans and newcomers will not want to miss.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is simply the game at its best. The 3.0 update added a surprising amount of new content and quality-of-life improvements that are truly game-changing. From streamlined crafting to improved controls and more, it would be difficult to return to the original version. While the Switch 2 upgrade itself doesn't offer much beyond 12-player multiplayer and visual boosts, it remains the definitive way to experience the game. Whether you are a returning fan or a new player, there has never been a better time to jump into the world of Animal Crossing.
Ring Fit Adventure is a fantastic indoor workout tool and arguably one of the best fitness games on the market. The RPG Adventure Mode is addictive enough to motivate players and push them to complete every stage, while the wide variety of exercises provides a great full-body workout, and the inclusion of a pure exercise mode makes it a perfect title for both gamers and non-gamers alike. If you are looking for an accessible, effective at-home workout to improve your health, then this game is a must.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-PAC is more than just a remaster; it is what the original title should have been. It contains double the content, introduces new moves and abilities, and refines the existing levels. While the original wasn't game-changing, Re-PAC is a solid linear platformer and a great callback to the "good old days."
AI: The Somnium Files is a fantastic mystery adventure game that explores just how far someone is willing to go to protect the ones they love. It features a memorable cast of characters, a unique dream-like investigation system, and countless plot twists that no one would see coming. Despite its dark subject matter, there are still plenty of laughs to be had, and those who reach the conclusion will find themselves wishing the story would never end.
The Imperial Capital Burns – Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse is a solid introductory chapter to the series. It features a compelling cast of characters and gives readers a glimpse of life before the BETA reached Japan, while perfectly capturing the horrors brought on by the alien threat. It is a must-read for fans, but it can also serve as a quick introduction for newcomers. Either way, this story deserves to be seen.