Van Helsing II isn't a huge improvement over its predecessor, but it's certainly starting to show increasing signs of becoming an excellent RPG. Unfortunately, the game is still hindered by some combat issues and a bland story, but the basics are there, we just have to hope the Neocore continue to improve on their IP.
The combination of repetitive gameplay, pacing and story issues in relation to the Earth/Cybertron dynamic and the absence of almost any new ideas will result in Rise of the Dark Spark finding itself being forgotten in the not too distant future. In the vocally distorted words of Bumblebee… "[Sad bleeps]". Sad Bleeps indeed.
All in all, this is a homerun for FromSoft, and with another two episodes to come, Crown of the Sunken King has set a benchmark of quality that, if matched by episodes two and three, will mark an excellent continuation to an already great title.
For all of its variation in gameplay, War Thunder just never really feels very engaging. The extremely tactical nature that makes its closest relative so addictive just doesn't exist, and while that's not the only way to make a war sim entertaining, Gaijin haven't offered a suitable alternative.
Velocity 2X is an excellent digital title that delivers more than just a little substance for its modest price. While certain aspects could do with some slight refinements, i.e. some iffy controls and repetitive stages, the title as a whole is leagues better than most titles that claim to be as innovative as Velocity.
Time trials, speed potting and high score challenges all sit alongside the game's main career mode, and while they're all perfectly serviceable game types, it's Pure Pool's multiplayer that really stops the repetitive nature of the game from sticking its claws in.
Fortunately, Pre-Sequel is largely more of the same with a few new extras. With the return of the True Vault Hunter Mode from previous games, the first thing you'll want to do after sitting (or skipping) through the credits will be to do it all over again - the biggest sign I can give you that Pre-Sequel is more than just a cut-and-paste copy of past games.
If you're a Souls fan itching for something to fill the gap while waiting for Bloodborne next year then you won't be disappointed with LotF. For everyone else who isn't familiar with the Souls series, it's highly recommended that you try that series first.
As far as isometric games go, EKO Software's title is one of the better ones out there. Sure, it may be slightly shallow in certain departments, but what it lacks, it more than makes up for in an excellent co-op mode and an enticing amount of replay value. Definitely one to try out.