The new additions here, especially the integration of a brand new character, definitely make this Definitive Edition worth playing for those who have already played the original. For newcomers, this release is the perfect opportunity to jump into what many (including myself) consider one of the best games in the series.
While I ditched Persona 4: Dancing All Night immediately after reviewing it, I can definitely see Moonlight and Starlight remaining part of my normal rhythm game rotation.
Despite the plot taking itself much more seriously, Burst Re:Newal is still a Senran Kagura game, which means it still revels in giant bouncing breasts and panty shots. What I’ve said for the other games applies to this one as well: if you’re not averse to these elements, Burst Re:Newal is a hell of a fun time, and the heavier story focus here makes this entry all the more sweeter.
I can say that this is a musou game that I’ll actually go back to after this review is done…which, I believe, is a hell of a seal of approval for a game in this genre. Here’s hoping the next inevitable entry in the Extra/Extella series steps it up even further.
While I can’t say I like that the game feels like it’s hiding its true conclusion behind future DLC, the package that we have right now is still damn fun to play through. If you’re not averse to some over-the-top violence, Katana Zero is definitely a game worth checking out.
All in all, Tapsonic Bold is an incredibly solid rhythm game that lacks a bit due to its mobile roots. Neowiz has done an excellent job porting over a game built for mobile and tuning it for PC, but there’s still a few kinks here and there that they missed ironing out.
Overall, Gato Roboto is a fun little action game with a bit of exploration that doesn’t do all that much gameplay-wise to stand out from the pack. However, I don’t want that to be taken in a bad way; this game is a perfectly solid and entertaining experience, and I had a great time running through it.
What we have here is an excellent title with truly addictive mechanics and some fun exploration. It’s just missing that “shock to the system” quality that the original had for me. If you’re new to this sub-franchise, I can guarantee you’ll have a great time with this game. For returning players, as long as you’re aware that this game is more of the same at its core, there’s still plenty of fun to be had here.
Despite those issues, though, Virgo Vs The Zodiac is still a solid experience, and a great JRPG that just popped up out of nowhere at the end of the year. If you’re looking for something to play through during the holidays, this is a title definitely worth considering.
Don’t let its somewhat drab exterior fool you, Rolling Gunner is worth a look for genre professionals and up-and-comers alike. Its the kind of game that, despite only being six stages long, I can see myself returning to for a long time coming.
Disc Room is short and sweet, with an interesting aesthetic and some intriguing character building. Unfortunately the latter is hidden in menus, so there’s a chance not all players will get to see what is, in my opinion, one of the best parts of the game.
If you’re already a fan of the Dirt franchise, there’s little to take issue with here – jump right in. If you’re a racing fan who’s new to the series, though, I can definitely say Dirt 5 is worth a look.
While the question remains if Gust will stick with this formula when they eventually move away from titles staring Ryza, I personally hope they continue to revise and refine this model. If Ryza 1 caught my interest, then Ryza 2 definitely has my attention.
If you’re looking for an emotional ride that will likely elicit a tear or two, Lost Words is something that should be on your list. Hiding under the basic gameplay is a story worth experiencing.
What the Dub?! knows what it wants to be, and it does it well, straight-forward and with very little frills. If you have a friend group that already enjoys the Jackbox series and other quick and easy party games, there’s little reason not to add this one to your rotation.
At its budget price ($6.99 at the time of writing), this game is an absolute no-brainer for shmup fans. I would argue that it’s a great option for genre newcomers as well, with its relatively easy opening levels before the difficulty really ramps up. As I continue my exploration of retro shmups, I’m glad this one fell into my hands.
It really feels like Gust took the criticism of the original to heart here. We’ve gone from a massive stumble of a game with some good ideas to an incredibly solid JRPG that does just about everything it sets out to do correctly. From the character writing to the speedy gameplay, the world design to the excellent soundtrack, this is a game worth taking a look at.
The story here pulled me in quickly, and is well worth paying attention to. Exploration with parkour is just plain fun. The game doesn't feel like it's forcing the player to explore and complete every marker on the map, but rather giving the player options for how they want to approach the game. The survival aspects aren't overwhelmingly hardcore, but feel tuned to provide the perfect amount of tension.
Even with the heavy hitter Dragon’s Trap missing from this selection, Wonder Boy Collection is still a great option if you want to experience a more obscure retro franchise for the first time, or go back and revel in nostalgia.
The game does stumble a bit with its battle sequences and slow start, but I would recommend Endless Legend to anyone that is a fan of the genre, or even newcomers who are looking to try it out.