Simon Brown's Reviews
A competent if flawed JRPG that has a unique combat system undermined by poor localisation as well as just dull implementation. If you are after a Persona-like RPG you might get some enjoyment from this, but it's pretty generic fare.
An ambitious, complex sandbox space game that allows you to do almost anything from spacewalking to commanding a carrier with a fleet of ships onboard. A steep learning curve and an inconsistent interface mar an excellent return for Egosoft's flagship series.
An intriguing RPG/Survival hybrid sandbox that invites you to experiment in the world it presents. Some technical hiccups interrupt the open world and the freeform nature definitely isn't for everyone but if you are after something different, Kenshi is the very definition of that.
A satisfying colony-building sandbox with a lot of replayability that suffers from a lack of polish in the UI. A great aesthetic and quirky sci-fi take on the genre mean there is a lot to like here, it just takes a little digging to get there.
A laser-focussed expansion that adds variety and depth to the already solid base game. BattleTech: Flashpoint gives players new stories and something to plan their time around whilst playing in the sandbox of the BattleTech universe.
The return of the horsemen delivers an entertaining if challenging action adventure. Some beautiful environments and fun enemy design help keep it engaging as you play but Darksiders' third outing is ultimately forgettable.
An interesting experiment that fails to nail either side of the experience, it uses Fallout trappings to good effect and can be fun with great environmental storytelling and West Virginia itself is gorgeous. The lack of NPCs and overall cohesion along with lacklustre PvP hinder its identity, however.
No online multiplayer, oddly narrow selection of properties, a lack of characters and imagery from the shows they used along with oddities like no voice work make it hard to recommend, there's the nugget of a great kart racer in here but it all feels so half-hearted. A real shame.
A great little twin-stick shooter that wears its inspiration on its sleeves but backs it up with challenging wave based fun that might easily become an addiction as you try to work your way up the leaderboards.
TWEWY -Final Remix- does a stellar job with updating the DS originals visual and aural design. Some control issues and changes to combat mechanics to fit the Nintendo Switch are unfortunate but the story and game systems are still excellent and will still have you eagerly trying to survive the Reaper's Game.
A fast, furious and fun shoot ‘em up that brings some interesting gameplay changes into its different modes. Doesn't do anything groundbreaking but plays like a dream and looks and sounds exactly as you remember shmups do!
A solid, if uninspiring run ‘n gun title with some very nice visuals. The game's length and difficulty make it hard to recommend without reservation but if you are after something a little quirky you might enjoy your brief time with this.
The Bard's Tale IV revisits the classic dungeon-crawling formula from years past, simultaneously showing reverence for its history whilst not being afraid to change it up mechanically. Visually stunning with a wonderful Gaelic folk soundtrack to go with it.
SNK's female-only fighter lacks the complexity of its older brethren but can be a glitzy over-the-top fun time if you let it. Fanservice hides a fun, simple to grasp fighting system that is deeper than you think.
A polished, well put together remaster of a game that never really got a fair shake during its original release. If you like mecha punching each other or the idea of piloting one in VR is your thing you can do a lot worse than giving Zone of the Enders The 2nd Runner: Mars a go.
Shenmue I & II brings the Dreamcast classics to a new audience as well as those nostalgic for the old days. They are still fun, exciting games even with a few quirks due to their age and are well worth playing in 2018.
A fun little momentum shooter with a drab visual style that is perfect for quick bouts of play. The difficulty and repeat play design won't be for everyone but if you are after a Luftrausers-esque title at a budget price you can't go wrong.
A great improvement over the original that almost nails the aesthetic and feel of the games it lovingly recreates even if it is a little rough around the edges. For those yearning for Burnout's Crash mode or that just enjoy score attack games there is a lot to enjoy here!
A beautiful, challenging game that is supremely polished in every area. A fantastic blend of tactical combat mixed with metroidvania style progression. Combined with an interesting and very quirky setting makes it a compelling package overall.
An interesting attempt to blend roguelite elements within a narrative and a welcome return to Prey's quirky alien world. It won't be for everyone but it's a satisfying, fun and challenging experience for fans of one of last year's best games.