Jeffrey L. Wilson's Reviews
Contra Anniversary Collection is a solid retro video game bundle for PC that features some of the best run-and-gun titles of the 8- and 16-bit eras, but it lacks many features you'd expect in a contemporary compilation.
Featuring improved animations, more body-wrecking moves, and enhanced gameplay, Mortal Kombat 11 is the best entry in the long-running series. Unfortunately, some in-game shop elements, as well as the grind needed to obtain particular items, are annoying.
Team Ninja adds the new offensive- and defensive-minded Break Gauge to its trademark Triangle System. The result is a Dead or Alive title that retains its fan service and boasts additional strategies, but a few issues keep this fighting game from ranking among the genre's best titles.
This remaster gives Katamari Damacy the high-definition graphics and keyboard support that you'd expect in a modern PC game, but that's all. Considering the game's excellence, that's just fine.
Fans of Capcom's classic, side-scrolling brawling games will enjoy these seven action-packed beat 'em ups. Unfortunately, the bundle lacks some high-profile releases, as well as the in-depth design docs found in most retro compilations.
After a disappointing SoulCalibur V, Bandai Namco has returned from the forge with the newly crafted SoulCalibur VI, a PC fighting game with fresh modes and thrilling gameplay.
Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner Mars gives the PS2 cult classic mech game updated touches like 4K resolution and VR support. If you played the original game, this release is unlikely to change your opinion.
PlayGround Games takes Forza Horizon 3's excellent foundation and builds upon it a new game that exceeds its predecessor in nearly every way. With Forza Horizon 4, Microsoft once again has a genre-defining racing game that drifts close to perfection.
With Yakuza 0, Sega gives its long-running gangster story the origin it deserves. Featuring brutal combat, hard-boiled drama, and a wacky sense of humor, Yakuza 0 is a beat 'em up classic.
A retro racing throwback, Horizon Chase Turbo replicates the speed and fun of classic 1990s-style racers.
An interactive archival look into the groundbreaking Street Fighter series, this collection of a dozen titles is a must-have purchase for genre fans and gaming historians alike.
Rocksmith may resemble Guitar Hero or Rock Band on its surface, but the title is a surprisingly thorough instructional tool that teaches you how to play a real guitar.
Arc System Works' loving tribute to one of the most popular animated shows of all time is not only an early contender for fighter of the year, but overall game of the year, too.
A retro revival given a modern coat of paint, Mutant Football League sticks to its 16-bit roots and showcases the funnier, gorier, side of American football.
Marvel vs. Capcom Infinite pits comic book characters vs. video game characters in a battle for magic space rocks. The highly satisfying action is paired with an uneventful roster and mediocre presentation, but that shouldn't stop you from exploring this fun fighting game.
Sonic Mania distills Sonic down to its basic elements, resulting in a wonderfully lean Hedgehog throwback. Unfortunately, DRM issues prevent Sonic Mania from blazing a truly excellent trail.
Featuring excellent combat and deep customization, Tekken 7 is one of the best fighting games to come along in some time.
Saber Interactive's NBA Jam-a-like delivers monster dunks and a novel leveling system that enables this high-flying sports game to leap over at least some of its flaws.
Guardians of the Galaxy is packed with Star-Lord and crew's humor and classic rock tunes, but this stiff point-and-click adventure game won't quite leave you hooked on a feeling.
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 rumbles onto PC years after its original, last-generation console release. Despite irritating infinite combos and a barren online lobby, it was worth the wait, thanks to fun fighting, included console DLC, and a wallet-friendly price.