Stephen LaGioia


99 games reviewed
69.5 average score
70 median score
35.4% of games recommended
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8 / 10.0 - Super Mario RPG
Dec 26, 2023

While feeling more “evolutionary” instead of “revolutionary” overall, this enriching Mario journey is still as memorable as ever, and makes a terrific swan song for the Switch.

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78 / 100 - Rad
Aug 23, 2019

With the vast array of wacky mutations and other random elements, you can milk a whole lot of enjoyment out of this $20 adventure. Roguelike aficionados and retro gamers alike should definitely give RAD a look.

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78 / 100 - Draw Chilly
Jan 3, 2020

Don't expect a masterpiece, but those who enjoy pure, undiluted action-survival gameplay - and are fine with a bit of repetition - should get a kick out of Draw Chilly.

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78 / 100 - Effie
Mar 7, 2020

Effie isn't going to blow any minds, but its tried-and-true action and 3D platforming design makes for a delightful callback to yesteryear.

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76 / 100 - CastleStorm
Jul 11, 2015

Castlestorm is an addictive and charming tower defense title that, despite a few minor faults, stands out from many of its ilk. With surprisingly deep and plentiful content, and easy to learn mechanics, this one is worth checking out.

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Apr 6, 2015

Kirby and the Rainbow Curse is a fun little title that doesn't bring a ton to the table, but what it does offer, it executes quite well. A good game if you're looking for short bursts of platforming fun, just don't expect anything epic in scope.

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75 / 100 - Splatoon 2
Aug 15, 2017

Unlike its unique predecessor, you largely know what you're getting into with this third person ink shooter sequel, but that's not a bad thing. Shortcomings aside, Splatoon 2 still just might be the best multiplayer experience on the Nintendo Switch so far.

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Nov 7, 2018

Super Mario Party manages to return to the roots of the series while sprinkling in some new features and a wealth of diverse content that all but guarantees there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Minigames are usually simple and easy to grasp, while still being enduring.

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Aug 18, 2019

Lost Orbit: Terminal Velocity is a competent action-scroller that often reaches stellar status. It's a cool little indie with some neat ideas, and definitely worth taking for a spin at $10.

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7.5 / 10.0 - Diablo IV
Jul 6, 2023

I was mostly enthralled exploring Sanctuary, dungeon-crawling, and wreaking havoc. However, the experience was marred by some spotty online issues, bouts of repetition, and uninspired lore.

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Sep 17, 2016

A great union of retro flare and novel concepts, strengthened by solid mechanics and some great music, Road to Ballhalla is sure to provide many with at least some entertainment, especially those who favor arcade-style gaming.

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74 / 100 - My Friend Pedro
Jul 20, 2019

While a few finicky mechanics and a lack of content outside the campaign keep this from getting a universal recommendation, $20 still gets you a memorable experience and offers a deliciously fun twist on the sidescrolling shooter formula.

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73 / 100 - Halo Wars 2
Feb 26, 2017

Halo Wars 2 doesn't break any new ground, and won't soon overtake the leaders of the genre, but it offers plenty for gamers who seek a refined console-focused RTS and another joyous trip into the Halo universe.

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Jul 19, 2018

Mario Tennis Aces is ultimately a solid party game whose weak spots mainly lie in the peripheral areas like the campaign, swing mode, and fairly limited customization. The core gameplay is enjoyable and takes center stage in the addictive, fun multiplayer modes.

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Feb 19, 2019

Ravva And The Cyclops Curse is yet another reminder that an old formula can still be both fun and interesting, if the execution is up to snuff and a few bits of innovation are sprinkled in. Those who enjoy a bite-sized platforming experience should find much to like about this little indie.

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72 / 100 - Joggernauts
Oct 16, 2018

Joggernauts is a charming party-platformer that will invoke feelings of both joyful laughter and rage. The game forces your brain to think in an obscure new way, as you scramble to juggle color coordination, pitfall hopping, and team communication.

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Apr 15, 2019

Operencia: The Stolen Sun proves ambitious for an indie project, and one that offers a wealth of satisfying content for the asking price. Its methodical, sluggish nature may not be for everyone, but those who accept it as a rough-around-the-edges retro dungeon crawler, should get a kick out of it.

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72 / 100 - Code Vein
Oct 13, 2019

This sometimes convoluted action RPG won't be for everyone. Still, Code Vein should draw in anime fans looking for a gripping, challenging gaming experience. Souls fans should enjoy this too, assuming they're seeking combat that's a tad less stressful, with additional colorful twists to the old formula.

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Nov 12, 2015

Yoshi's Woolly World is a fun and amusing platformer in its own right, though the quirky art style and gameplay gimmicks seem to take center stage here. Tries a bit too hard to emulate its predecessors.

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Oct 17, 2016

What you see is pretty much what you get here – Pokken Tournament is a solid multiplayer experience that should make both Pokemon and fighting genre aficionados take notice.

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