Shanker Varma


12 games reviewed
80.0 average score
80 median score
66.7% of games recommended
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Dec 22, 2016

Hunting ghosts is taken to a new level as they copy the player upon being defeated, and the quick speed makes this a fun and frantic title, whether it is played alone or with friends. Between the arcade, challenge, and deathmatch modes, there is a lot to do for anyone looking for a simple and very enjoyable experience. The only drawbacks come from the lack of online play, but Extreme Exorcism is still great to play alone or with some friends.

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7 / 10 - WWE 2K16
May 4, 2016

WWE 2K16 feels more like an expansion pack than a whole new release, but it's still a great package for anyone looking to experience WWE on the PC. The in-ring action has only really changed in terms of the reversal system, but it still does a good job of recreating the action seen in the real life show. There are still some match types missing from the free play mode, and the flagship Showcase mode, while, while it excellently represents Stone Cold Steve Austin's career, has been disappointingly reduced from five, to two different campaigns. Fans of the show or of the previous game are sure to find something to enjoy, yet it still doesn't have something that will recapture those who have already drifted away from the franchise.

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Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas's comparisons to the Zelda series amplify its shortcomings but, as a standalone title, the game delivers a very enjoyable adventure. Gamers looking for a simpler challenge will relish the title, while those looking for something more engaging may be put off, but it remains a very well developed experience. Recreating the magic of a Zelda game is a tall order but Cornfox & Bros. has made a valiant effort to do so.

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7 / 10 - WWE 2K15
May 30, 2015

WWE 2K15 easily feels, looks, and sounds like an episode of its real-life counterpart thanks to the excellent production value. The game excels in its 2K Showcase mode, which engages players as it takes them on a journey through historic storylines. Sadly, other aspects, like the MyCareer mode, quickly grow tiresome and there is an obvious lack of customisation options and match types. Ultimately, this is a flawed but very enjoyable package and fans of the WWE are likely to find some entertainment from reliving certain parts of wrestling history.

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Anyone with an amiibo should download this to try it out, especially if he or she enjoys puzzle games and/or Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars. Everything has been created with the same care that is found in other Nintendo titles and each of the abilities gives their collectible counterparts probably their best use yet. The mission to get gold trophies means that even the most hardened gamers will find a challenge, while those looking for a more relaxing time can complete each stage at their own pace. This makes it accessible to a range of people, as skill isn't an immediate barrier to enjoyment. The only real barrier is the cost of amiibo, but it could be enough to tip those who were interested in buying one over the edge. Anyone who already has a sizeable collection is sure to relish the extra content that is now available for no additional charge.

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Jan 6, 2016

It has been far too long since a futuristic racer arrived on consoles and Shin'en Multimedia has done a fantastic job bringing the genre to the Wii U's eShop. FAST Racing Neo isn't a great game merely because the genre is lacking, it actually stands out on its own merits as a fantastic racer and a must buy for anyone who has been waiting years for a new game from the F-Zero or WipEout mould.

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8 / 10 - Train Valley
Feb 24, 2016

Players will be caught up in the wonders of Train Valley as quickly as they learn how to work its mechanics and lay tracks like a rail tycoon, all thanks to its accessible nature and engaging gameplay. The experience gets more challenging over the course of the 24 levels, yet the optional objectives and sandbox mode mean that it caters to a range of skills, so any budding train managers can play without fear of being overwhelmed or bored. The low price of £6.99 means that there is fantastic value of money for pretty much anyone who picks it up as it is easy to quickly get hooked on making the most lucrative and efficient rail networks possible to finish not only all 24 levels, but also all of the optional objectives. Anyone who remains to be convinced should try the free demo on Steam - it is highly likely that it will soon be followed by a purchase of the full version.

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8 / 10 - Cloudbuilt
Oct 23, 2014

First-person games are often dominated by a theme of shooting, but Cloudbuilt is one of the few games to place a low emphasis on combat. The game would work perfectly well without any confrontation and it is possible to complete the majority of it as a pacifist. Cloudbuilt's strengths lie in its amazing platforming elements, which are in abundance throughout the game. Whether it is running along walls, boost jumping between platforms or scaling high walls, the game creates a rush of adrenaline that makes it one of the most enjoyable experiences available.

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May 27, 2015

Not since Super Mario 3D World has the Wii U, or any platform, seen such a cheerful and enchanting platformer. Guiding Kirby around each world in Kirby and the Rainbow Paintbrush is a true delight thanks to fluid controls, innovative gameplay and magnificent audio and visual presentation. The challenge of finding every hidden collectible means that there is something for practically everyone, as a range of skill sets have been accommodated by the developers. It's hard to finish the game without being hungry for more, but this is due to the high quality on offer, not a lack of content, while the budget pricing makes it exceptional value for money.

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Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Tipping Stars is very reminiscent of Lemmings, as the goal is to guide Mario and friends through levels by manipulating objects around them, instead of directly controlling them. Creating inventive ways to avoid hazards and collect coins make each level a challenging, but endearing, experience. The ranking system is well crafted to make the game appealing to both casual and competitive gamers. Creating new levels in the workshop mode and then sharing them online adds further replay value to a game that is already rich in content. The whole package is presented with beautiful visuals and an incredible soundtrack to create something that should not be missed.

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Dec 5, 2014

Trine: Enchanted Edition offers a traditional platforming action-adventure game with a unique and incredibly entertaining twist. The physics make playing through each level even more fun, as players can experiment with the objects and enemies to their hearts' content. The whole game is presented beautifully, with an amazing accompanying soundtrack that fits perfectly within each of the levels. Whether it is exploring the hallways of the Astral Academy or navigating the Crystal Caverns, Trine delivers a truly memorable experience thanks to its entertaining gameplay, luscious visuals and truly legendary soundtrack. The smooth and enjoyable co-op mode is very much the delectable cherry on top of an already irresistible cake.

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Jul 12, 2015

A delightful knitted theme makes Yoshi's Woolly Worlda true joy to play, as everything from Yoshi and his various abilities, to the landscapes and elemental hazards, is beautifully rendered. The accessible gameplay ensures that such a visually delightful title can be experienced by as many people as possible, while the hidden collectibles and special stages more than make up for it and will test the reflexes of many gamers. It's easy to recommend this game to anyone who is endeared by its presentation and enjoys 2D platformers, as everyone has the autonomy to tailor the experience to his or her own skill set.

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