ANOMALITH is a coherent survival third-person shooter that, most of the time, seems to be trying to figure out what it wants to be with its action and survival mechanics. While the story is engaging, the cutscenes are not, but the characters are where this game shines, especially as it goes on. The resource-management aspect is my favorite part, and I really hope to see this mechanic expanded upon in future titles or other games. Overall, this game is confused about what it wants to be, but it comes out as a very okay adventure through the anomalies of Japan.
Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival feels like a 2010 game in the best possible way, boasting a beautiful presentation and some of the most gruesome scenery I have ever seen in a video game. It combines elements of BioShock and Resident Evil into a wonderful cocktail of what makes both series so iconic. While certain mechanics feel a bit dated, none of them drag down the overall experience. I truly hope we see Saber Interactive take another stab at classic horror franchises to give them new life.
Mexican Ninja is a surprisingly good time, full of combos, upgrades, and a funny, wonderful art direction that will keep players saying "one more run." It also helps that the setting is extremely unique, constantly making you look around the world, ask yourself, "Do Japan and Mexico go together?", and then tell yourself, "Yes, they do!" I recommend checking out Mexican Ninja if you like beat-'em-ups or just roguelikes in general!
The Sinking City 2 doesn't innovate in the third-person survival horror genre, but that's okay because of its unique world design. This handcrafted setting is fun to explore; it is full of distinctive characters, straightforward puzzles, and standard enemies. It also helps that the story is engaging enough if you are interested in H.P. Lovecraft, pulling from lore that is very cosmic-heavy and sometimes taking turns you do not expect, even if saving your unconscious lover isn't your cup of tea.
MineGeon: Renegades is an attempt at a very popular genre, clearly made by developers who are familiar with it and genuinely love it. The game almost lands the spaceship, but it ultimately falls flat because of its weak onboarding. If mechanics were explained to the player directly, the overall experience might land better than it does. It is filled with beautiful pixel art, wonderful music, and fun characters. If you enjoy bullet-hell games, I could recommend giving it a shot—though perhaps wait until you have nothing else in your backlog to play!