Casey Scheld's Reviews
Despite cribbing gameplay elements from a number of different games, Flinthook manages to be its own unique beast. Its unforgiving and repetitive design is not for everyone, but those craving pixel perfect platforming with a dash of difficulty will find a lot to like here.
Guilty Gear Xrd: REV 2 isn't as big of a jump as the one -REVELATOR- made, but it is a welcome one nonetheless. It still remains one of the best fighting games out on the market today, and the additions present here make an already good game even better.
The final episode of The Walking Dead: A New Frontier ends the season on a low note. It's lack of interactive elements, frequent bugs, and substandard writing will have fans of the series looking to the TV show or comic to get their walker fix.
Danger Zone may crib liberal notes from the Burnout series, but its lack of personality and options greatly hinders it in the long run. Those dying to relive days gone by might find some enjoyment here, but those looking for the next coming of Criterion's classic are better off playing the originals.
Tekken 7 is more of a sidestep than a total knockout for the series. It's broken online modes and sparse single player content leaves something to be desired, but those looking to throw down will appreciate its depth and complexity.
The second episode of Guardians of the Galaxy does a fair job of setting the stage for future installments. If you can get over the consistency errors and hammy writing, you've got the potential for a b-movie blockbuster full of action, drama, and blue-skinned cyborgs.
Castle of Shikigami is shoot-em-up comfort food. Though it does not reinvent the wheel, it provides enough unique setpieces and mechanics to warrant at least one playthough. It might not reach the heights of Cave's offerings, but diehard fans of the genre may enjoy their time with this game.
DiRT 4 will appeal to almost any type of racer. The sheer amount of options guarantees long term play, and though more locales will be nice, the variety of vehicles, modes, and conditions more than makes up for it.
Between the nonstop action and the overall aesthetics, Nex Machina is the most video game-like title you'll play this year. The overall design can get somewhat repetitive, and the odds are often not the most fair, but those looking for a challenge have found their latest addiction.
Valkyria Revolution fails to live up to the pedigree of its lineage. Though it tries something new with its dynamic battle system, the clunky execution will leave players frustrated and yearning for something different.
Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy is an incredible deal for platforming fans. These three games are old-school (for better or worse), but those looking for a proper remaster of Crash's adventures have found their game.
The first episode of this new season captures the spirit of Minecraft while still being its own unique beast. Though it skews toward a younger demographic, fans of all ages will appreciate the gameplay elements and lighthearted writing this chapter brings to the table.
Super Cloudbuilt has complex platforming mechanics that work well with its grandiose level design. Though the game does not always play nice with controllers, those who take the time to learn Demi's moves will enjoy their search for the perfect run.
Tacoma tries to tell a tale in a unique way, but does not quite achieve its vision. The disconnect between the player and the characters, along with the short length, make it a hard sell for fans of walking simulators.
Graze Counter's Graze and Burst mechanics add an extra layer of strategy to this shoot-em-up. It's not the most robust or revolutionary game around, but those looking to take to the skies will appreciate what it has to offer.
Rez Infinite is an audiovisual treat all gamers should experience at least once. It might not be the longest or most in-depth game out there, but it aesthetics are practically unrivaled in this day and age.
Sonic Mania has everything you could ever want from a Sonic game. The levels are carefully crafted, the bosses are unique, and the fanservice is off the charts. Those looking for the second coming of SEGA's mascot have found it here.
Shmups may be known for their challenge, but Aeternum is simply unfair. It may have the basics foundation down, but the execution leaves something to be desired.
The second episode of this season of Minecraft: Story Mode is designed for kids, but dumbs things down a little too much in the process. Though some of the gameplay elements are welcome, the meandering plot does not seem to be hitting its stride. Here's hoping the third episode picks up the pace.
Windjammers is a timeless game that is perfect for competitive play. DotEmu's release isn't the most robust around, but those looking to recapture the spirit of SNK will have fun with this title.