Sea of Stars: Throes of the Watchmaker tries to improve on the base game’s weak protagonists with a stronger character focus, but unfortunately, it does so with brute force and ultimately falls short. At the very least, its combat remains highly engaging, and even if there are far too many puzzles now, the game’s aesthetics still carry it hard.
Labyrinth of the Demon King has its flaws, sure—but it’s got a certain charm that makes it hard to put down. Its combat system is fast and reflex-heavy, but while it’s definitely rewarding if you play it straight, it doesn’t take much to break once you know what you’re doing. Still, with its tight visuals, creepy enemies, and wonderfully distorted audio, it nails the retro horror vibe in all the right ways.
Despite a weak, clumsy prologue, Wuthering Waves quickly proves itself with a sharp, emotional story driven by an active, memorable protagonist. Its core combat remains intact but has deepened through inventive boss design and content suited for all skill levels. Combined with standout visuals, polished audio, and a low-pressure gacha system, it feels more like a complete, carefully crafted RPG than a typical mobile title.
Commandos: Origins offers gameplay that hits the mark for real-time tactics fans, but everything surrounding it feels like it’s stuck in the past. The visuals and audio are functional at best, with little flair, and the story is exactly what you'd expect—and nothing more. With its $49.99 price tag, it's hard not to feel like you're paying a bit too much for something this straightforward.
Atelier Yumia doesn’t really take big risks, but it still manages to keep things fun. The combat’s a solid step up from past games, and gathering isn’t nearly as much of a chore anymore—though you’ll still manage to trip over the tiniest rock now and then. It looks great (sometimes too great for its own good if your PC isn’t ready), and the soundtrack’s an easy win. Sure, the $70 price tag might sting a little, but with how much content there is and the replay value, it’s not a bad deal. Just be ready for some of the dialogue to get a little in-your-face at times.
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist proudly carries its predecessor’s legacy into a new era of metroidvania, with enhanced gameplay, improved audiovisuals, and refined storytelling. It’s a near-perfect action platformer that captivates with its immersive world and engrossing tale.