Cindy Minguez
The Bug Butcher is a fun arcade title that has the player exterminating bugs at an increasingly frenetic pace until all bugs have been destroyed. The easy-to-operate game mechanic and variety of difficulties that are available make it fun for all skill levels, but the challenging achievement list and buggy saving could squash some players' enthusiasm like...well, like a bug.
All in all, Aven Colony is a blast. Planning out the best places to put your facilities in order to keep most people happy is both fun and absorbing. Surprisingly simple to learn, the game makes it easy to quickly get in the groove of building and splashes of humor keep you smiling.
Embers of Mirrin employs a unique approach to the puzzle platformer, a two-stick mechanic that is both innovative and challenging.
All in all, Mr. Shifty is a real blast to play, and anyone who enjoys arcade action should consider giving it a try.
All in all, Styx: Shards of Darkness is a game you won't want to miss.
Candleman is a great platformer with beautifully rendered graphics and wonderful attention to detail. You will find yourself cheering on the little candle as you help him navigate the many obstacles in his way as he tries to reach the magnificent beacon shining from the lighthouse. The gameplay is simple yet challenging, nicely varied, and requires a studied balance of using light, shadow, and movement.
Seasons after Fall is a beautiful puzzle platformer with gorgeous artwork and music, well-voiced appealing characters, and a captivating story.
Not a Hero is a lot of fun with its cheesy humor and simple game mechanic, but players can expect to die A LOT in their bid to help BunnyLord gain global domination. The game quickly becomes quite difficult, especially for people new to shooters. With any number of ways to kill and die, the game has a good bit of variety, but running through buildings endlessly gets monotonous at times. Over half of the achievements can be picked up in the normal course of a casual game, but it will take a long time to 100% this one and you can expect to experience a lot of frustration along the way. Overall, it's a fun addition to your game library, especially for shooter fans who enjoy a challenge.
Azkend 2: The World Beneath is a fun, if sometimes frustrating game well worth its asking price.
While a bit slow to start due to the sub-par tutorial, the game becomes more absorbing as you get a feel for it, research new tools, and try to save the crystal. The recruitment of new characters along the way adds variety, as well as researching new builds with which to beat back the enemy in new and interesting ways. The game would benefit from better explanations and perhaps a glossary of terms, as well as local multiplayer for when the going gets tough. Overall, despite the bugs, it's an enjoyable experience that requires the player to stay on his or her toes while keeping the crystal's light alive.
Anyone who's a fan of this type of puzzler will be in for a good time with Sparkle 2, but the last four achievements will definitely take some time and effort.