If you passed on 'Tomb Raider' when it released earlier in 2013, or opted to hold out for the Definitive Edition, now is a great time to experience this incredible franchise reboot; highly recommended on a current gen console. While I was disappointed to see a $60 price tag associated with the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions, I realized after playing it that it is much more than a simple up-rez of a game nearly a year old. The opening moments of 'Tomb Raider' on the PlayStation 4 confirmed for me that the developers at Crystal Dynamics put their heart and soul back into a game they so clearly love. While the updated visuals are quite stunning and, at times jaw-dropping, the gameplay continues to be immersive – with incredible set pieces, high action, acrophobia-inducing platforming, and an interesting story with likable characters. I said it in 2013 when I completed 'Tomb Raider' the first time, and I'll say it again here – 'Tomb Raider' has found a way to give Naughty Dog's 'Uncharted' series a real run for the money, and I can't wait to see where Lara's adventure's lead her next.
'Don't Starve' has done a nice job of introducing me to a genre of videogames I had not yet experienced. The randomness of the world and unexpected, yet consistent, surprises were reason enough for me to stick with the game, but the repetitive nature ultimately sullied the experience. If there's one aspect that I truly appreciated about 'Don't Starve' it's in the understanding that Klei Entertainment is the team to watch. I may have been more partial to the tight brawler experiences of 'Shank', but their level of creativity and ability to broaden their development skills are enough for me to anticipate future titles.
'Assassin's Creed Liberation HD' is different from many of the Assassin's Creed games that came before it in that it is an Abstergo product - the player is playing in the Animus, rather than playing as the typical Assassin through the Animus. It provides a rare, yet incredibly strong female protagonist that has quickly become one of my favorites from the series. She is deadly and determined, wrapped in beauty and grace. Her heritage amid the game's pre-Revolutionary War setting promotes the idea of an incredibly deep character when faced with the tragedies of slavery and you cannot help but root for her throughout her journey. By porting this once Sony PlayStation Vita exclusive to the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC, Ubisoft Sofia has made her story, her struggle, and her adventure, available to millions of Assassin's Creed fans around the world. Common Assassin's Creed gameplay issues aside, it is a game worth experiencing, regardless of your devotion to the franchise.
Traveller's Tales has been creating Lego games for a long time now. They have found a formula that works exceptionally well and continue to breath life into a genre that is mostly looked down upon – the licensed videogame. With each new offering I continue to find improvements and more reasons to tap into my inner Lego spirit. Although I continue to hold out hope for the much-needed option of online co-op, I remain generally satisfied to enjoy their games the good old-fashioned way – on the couch with a friend or family member. 'Lego Marvel Super Heroes' is a treat for gamers of all ages and is sure to impress even the most finicky of Marvel fans. In a gaming landscape that tends to be oversaturated with bleak and apocalyptic story arcs, 'Lego Marvel Super Heroes' is a ray of sunshine that is certain to warm the heart and remind you that video games are meant to be fun.
The creative use of the Vita's many functions, along with the endearing story and lovable characters, makes 'Tearaway' a game that simply must be experienced. I liken the conclusion of the game to the feeling I received when completing thatgamecompany's 'Journey'. It is enough to bring a smile of utter joy to your face while you struggle to hold back tears. There are very few console games that leave a truly lasting affect on me, and even fewer Vita titles. Still, I'm quite happy to add 'Tearaway' into the category of memorable gaming experiences. If you own a PlayStation Vita you would be doing yourself a disservice by not playing this game. Kudos to the highly creative developers at Media Molecule for delivering this gem, it is greatly appreciated.
New IPs can be a risky proposition. Add a new console into the mix and the idea becomes even more daunting. Although I applaud the developers of Japan Studio for taking this risk, 'Knack' simply was unable to live up to expectations, and its difficulty negates its possibilities as a great family title. The story was less than exciting, the gameplay was repetitive, and the entire experience felt like one big missed opportunity as a flagship game for the PlayStation 4. 'Knack' has some interesting moments, but they were short lived and never fully realized. Gamers picking up a PlayStation 4 shouldn't cross 'Knack' off their list, but they may want to start with a different title.
'Resogun' was first out of the gate for the launch of the PlayStation 4, and there's a reason why Sony chose this downloadable title to be one of the first added to the PlayStation Plus Game Collection. Its impressive visuals, slickly smooth gameplay, and addictive score chase are a perfect match for the start of this new console generation. Although the number of levels currently available are small, and the variety of ships to play with are few, there's no denying 'Resogun' deserves a place among the PlayStation 4 family. Whether as a free game to start your next-gen addiction, or paid for in full, 'Resogun' should find a way into your gaming library sooner rather than later.
Pinch hitting for the highly anticipated 'DriveClub' as a part of the PlayStation 4 release was certain to be a daunting experience for the development team at Compulsion Games. Annoying bugs and short game play aside, they have nicely accommodated for those oversized shoes they needed to fill. 'Contrast' presents a wonderfully crafted and intimately personal story, while promoting an avant-garde take on the increasingly popular game play mechanics of light and shadow. The style of the game will keep you entertained from start to finish, but there isn't enough substance there to prompt a replay.
As a father and dedicated gamer, 'Skylanders: Swap Force' is that rare game that satisfies on a variety of levels. It makes me proud to see my daughters handling a PlayStation 3 controller with near pin-point accuracy, and puts a smile on my face as we mutually enjoy the same game when played together. As I have already come to realize, these gaming opportunities with my children will not last forever and I appreciate the effort Vicarious Visions put into the development of Swap Force. It was a pleasure to play solo and should not be missed if you are a parent of younger gamers.