Benjamin Bell's Reviews
Rugrats: Retro Rewind Collection is a great compilation for fans of the series and those who are nostalgic for the original releases; however, it offers very little for anyone else. There is some fun to be had here, sure, but nothing has changed in the decades since these games were first released. All of the original annoyances remain, and the minigame-focused titles might not be for everyone, but thankfully, the new rewind feature can help players get through these frustrations. Overall, I do not regret my time playing through these classics, but players should be aware of what they are in for before diving in.
R-Type Dimensions III is a standout remaster of an SNES classic. Its challenging gameplay demands total dedication, and the unique stage design remains just as memorable today as it was decades ago. While the graphical overhaul is visually pleasing, the inclusion of the original style as an option is a welcome touch for purists. Thankfully, the new Infinite Mode allows players of all skill levels to see the end, but even then, expect the journey to be filled with constant death.
ChainStaff is a fun yet challenging tribute to the golden age of the run-and-gun genre. Its hand-painted, grotesque aesthetic and pulse-pounding soundtrack feel like stepping into a living '80s rock album, while the titular ChainStaff offers a unique twist as you navigate each stage and face off against massive bosses. With sprawling areas to explore and various upgrade paths to master, ChainStaff encourages multiple playthroughs—an easy feat given how addictive the experience truly is.
Directive 8020 is simply captivating. With a story that invites players to question the very nature of the protagonists they control—and an alien that can impersonate anyone—the game is an intriguing tale about what awaits mankind beyond the comfort of our home on Earth. Even after the credits roll, there are plenty of secrets left to discover, and it is thanks to the Turning Point system that players can easily explore every branching path and outcome that awaits on the Cassiopeia.
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.