Blackguards 2 is not a perfect game and, unfortunately, not the reinvention of its predecessor it could have been. However, the game does ultimately reward a little (well, a lot of) patience, developing into a relatively enjoyable campaign once the player has progressed past the early stages.
It grew on me, which I admit is both contradictory and paradoxical in a way, given that I have criticized the game for its redundant features, tediousness and lack of variety. The visuals are certainly compelling and the animation is the most captivating aspect of the game. In the end though, this says as much about the content as anything else. The presentation promises much and is highly polished but it lies at the surface, working to conceal the more problematic aspects of the actual game itself.
Knights and Bikes did entirely not captivate me. That said, its sincere leading characters and exquisite art are certainly aspects to be admired.
If one was to ignore the technical issues and consider it in isolation, Pillars of Eternity 2 could be deemed a solid game.
Crusade does what all good expansions should do – it takes a base game and improves upon it in significant ways. There is a great amount of new content here that will give existing players a fresh experience when returning to Galactic Civilizations III. It's also competitively priced, which should entice newcomers as well. There are a few bugs and the rather large shadow of Stellaris that hang over this game, but all in all this is a really decent strategy title that should appeal to any fan of 4X gaming.
While this isn't the most overwhelming amount of additional content ever seen in a shmup, Bullet Soul's overall package and price point is fair. It should entertain newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
The art direction astutely compliments the gameplay and the self-referential, retro-infused style of Zombie Night Terror. It is a title that feels a lot like a postmodern love letter to games of a bygone era.
While Cross of the Dutchman doesn't offer much innovation in terms of gameplay, Triangle Studios still manages to infuse a great deal of originality and heart into their small but feisty game which, while short, is packed with life.
So long as the player expects nothing more from Xeodrifter than what it is very upfront about providing in terms of content, retro-aesthetic and gameplay, then it will be hard to feel disappointed after playing this game. It's not perfect, but there is a sincerity here that is likely to charm even the most sceptical of gamers.
At the end of the day, Rising Tide accomplishes precisely what it needed to for the Civilization franchise: it provides a good reason for those players who drifted away to potentially jump back into Beyond Earth, and it provides a timely injection of new content for those players who needed something more to continue sticking around. There are still flaws with the overall experience, but based on this reasoning alone, Rising Tide must be considered a success.
The Surge 2 has some really satisfying moments. It’s worth an investment based on the wealth of customisation options available, solid progression and genuinely fun combat. These innovations go some way to making up for the lack engrossing story or meaningful characters. However, the overriding sense is that the positive traits of Surge 2 often feel suffocated, mainly by a lack of visual and narrative investment in the world that surrounds its core mechanics.
This is a flawed title, but BattleTech's nuanced tactical depth and engaging system of progression will ultimately sustain it over the long haul.
Bridge Constructor Portal is not the Portal game many would have been expecting, but with the reassuring presence of GLaDOS and the Companion Cubes (also, coincidently, the name of my new band), it's nevertheless enough to scratch that 'fun with portals' itch left in the wake of Portal 2.
Much of the latter half of this episode follows Donnie, in the present day narrative. While this storyline culminates in some grisly discoveries and plot revelations that could potentially have some pretty significant ramifications for all involved, I did find the nature of his relationship with Randolph – and the mysterious, off-camera interrogator (from the beginning of Episode 2, the player may recall) – to grow slightly more confusing.
I’m not one hundred percent sure I buy the ‘standalone expansion’ label – which is the main reason I have awarded Rivals a slightly lower score than I gave Sorcerer King. For new players however, it’s well worth the price given the game’s well worked mix of RPG and 4X elements.
Episode ones raises a lot of questions but does a good job of not confusing the player by going too big, too soon. As a standalone product, it is held back only by its length which is a little on the short side. However Gaming Corps AB have created an excellent foundation that future episodes can build from, and the premise should entice anyone who enjoys a post-apocalyptic, science fiction tale. I hope the narrative goes deeper as each episode progresses but if episode one is anything to go by, it should be an exciting and engrossing ride.
There's a lot to love about this game but at times it really can feel like too much effort.
Grey Goo, if you'll excuse the pun, oozes originality. It's a refreshing take on a classic style of real-time strategy gaming. Players shouldn't be put off by the somewhat unappealing title. Grey Goo features a compelling story and an enjoyable gameplay experience. This is a game that's well worth a look for any RTS fan that definitely brings something new to the table.
The game offers different perspectives. Its game play is predicated on cause and effect. In short, there are a lot of moving parts that take time to master. The fast-paced nature of the campaign leaves little room to take a breath when in the middle of a mission. While this is a little overwhelming for new players, it certainly offers an awful lot of excitement and replay value.
Ultimately, Luftrausers is a game that balances a lot on its plate. It is easy to pick up but demands a lot of patience. It is challenging but lays all its cards out on the table within a very short time. It is fast and exciting, but requires the player to adapt. But it also doesn't pretend to be anything it's not, and all in all I found it to be a fun experience.