Trying to give everyone what they want can often be a risky move, but Shadows is a remarkably accomplished package that both new and old fans should be able to enjoy equally. The stealth gameplay has seen a significant leap in quality and Ubisoft's realisation of feudal Japan does them proud. The main quest is probably the tightest one in years and the side content is fun but not overwhelming. If Assassin's Creed Shadows is lighting the way for future entries, it seems like the franchise will be in safe hands for years to come.
Broken Sword - Shadows of the Templar: Reforged is a great introduction to a classic point and adventure, or a lovingly recreated remaster for hardcore fans
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster is a lovingly crafted release of the first six Final Fantasy games in one collection. Upgraded graphics, a gorgeous new soundtrack, and several must play games make this an essential item in any RPG fans collection.
Chained Echoes is not just a tribute, it's a fresh new take. An old school JRPG for a new school. Archaic systems and features have been cleaned up and now all the worst conventions of the genre are surprisingly manageable. Add in beautiful art direction, a rousing soundtrack, fleshed out characters and a wondrous world to explore and you have an excellent game in its own right.
While it might not keep up with the mega JRPG franchises, Star Ocean: The Divine Force is a big leap forward over previous entries, and has a fun combat system and just enough charm to recommend.
Life is Strange Arcadia Bay Collection allows a new generation of gamers to experience one of the 2010's best adventure games. Just don't expect the labelled 'remaster' to provide much of an added sheen
An interesting real time take on the strategy JRPG genre. Unfortunately bogged down by a generic story and a lack of purpose between missions.
Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers edition brings a classic JRPG to the PAL region for the first time. The port may not be exceptional, but the game itself deserves to be experienced.
Will Final Fantasy diehards get a kick out of Stranger of Paradise? It's hard to say. There are multiple enjoyable nods to past games throughout the levels, enemies and pieces of lore. The soundtrack is excellent, featuring remixed or remastered themes of multiple games. The combat is fast paced and the extensive job system takes the Final Fantasy system of old and thoroughly modernises it. Yet the game is decidedly un-Final Fantasy. Exploration is minimal, the story takes far too long to get going, the dialogue is often laughable and the characters are mostly bland blank slates. As an over the top action cheese-fest, the game puts points on the board. Just don't expect it to compete with the greatest hits.
Despite the performance issues there is plenty to like here. The story is engaging and the characters are likeable. Using the Monstrum abilities adds a genuinely new layer to the core Ys gameplay and combat remains a blast to play through. The Switch may crumble a little under the weight of the game, but Ys IX: Monstrum Nox is still highly recommended.
The best way to play a cult classic and experience the wonderful storytelling abilities of Yoko Taro. Nier Replicant is a worthy version upgrade to accompany 2017's successful Nier Automata
An affecting story and dazzling presentation is marred by a series of frustrating gameplay mechanics.
Those who love old school JRPG grindfests will find a lot to love with Bravely Default II.
So FIFA ends its run on this console generation as the undisputed champion of sales, and will probably remain that way for years to come. Whether EA will try to further innovate the actual game, or if they even want to remains unseen. eFootball PES continues to outshine it on a pure gameplay level, but without the flashy licenses and expensive bells and whistles many will be content to keep rolling with EA's juggernaut. FIFA is still a fun game to play and at times can still be addictive as anything. You just can't help but wish for those two or three major signings that would take it to the next level.
eFootball PES 2021 Season Update is last years game at a cut price with mostly up to date rosters. It's a beautiful game to play, marred by significant presentation issues and the lack of any killer game modes.