Casey Scheld's Reviews
Cruis’n Blast focuses on style over substance, making the end result feel a bit hollow. Navigating a careening ferris wheel is the stuff action movies are made of, but there’s just not enough content here to justify picking this home release up over sinking a few bucks into the arcade version.
Although Beat Souls features a kaleidoscope of color and a wealth of anime girls, the music and action of this rhythm game are far too tame for their own good. It provides an interesting twist on the genre, but it will leave players feeling like something is missing.
A title described as an “invasive expression of gesture” might not sound like a good time, but Cuccchi’s blend of art and gameplay largely pays off. Those that can stand a bit of awkwardness in its navigation can enjoy a novel experience that they are sure to remember.
While the aerial movement of Neon Wings: Air Race helps this title stand out, its poor implementation hinders its balance when all is said and done.
If 2236 A.D. Secretary Stories shows the future of visual novels, then things look bleak. This title manages to make nearly every mistake in the book, making this AI PASS an easy pass.
Although it is not the most polished game around, Aery – Calm Mind manages to provide a relaxing experience free of danger and worry. Those looking to zone out a bit will enjoy hitting the skies, but those seeking out something meatier best approach with caution.
The experimental nature of Heal Hitler pays off in dividends. By focusing squarely on the script, this visual novel features a real human element that makes every choice truly matter. Those looking for an enthralling tale with one of history's most infamous dictators have certainly found it in this psychologists' office.
If you've got the slightest interest in the horror genre, you've already seen what Night Book has to offer. The idea of a full motion video tale with multiple endings is a noble one, but the poor acting and breakneck pace ruin its chances of ever standing out.
Peekaboo Lite's hide and seek premise looks good on paper, but the awkward execution and hardcore paywall kills any of its potential.
Wild Dive's first person running action channels the kinetic energy that make Sonic's early 3D outings so great. Although the loose controls take some getting used to, this short but sweet score chaser is well worth the time of any speed freak.
The world of Super Totally Ultimate Dad Showdown is a mixed bag. Some of the minigames are far better than others, but all those that bring some friends along can have some fun with this free-to-play title.
SnOut's combination of Breakout and Snake is great in theory, but the execution leaves something to be desired. There just isn't enough real estate to move around, and the awkward layout means that runs will be over sooner rather than later.
Retro Racer does the bare minimum needed for the racing genre. The vaporwave aesthetic has been done to death, and the lack of any sort of meaningful content makes this an easy pass.
Slappyball turns the game of volleyball on its head, adding arcade-like elements and zany gameplay into the mix. Though the controls are floaty and the microtransactions gratuitous, this still proves to be a fun party game.
Guilty Gear -Strive- sets a new gold standard for fighting games. Everything from the netcode to the presentation has been polished to a shiny sheen, and its incredibly high skill ceiling will keep players coming back for years to come.
There's no better way to see the Dragon Ninja Ryu Hayabusa in action than with the Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection. Those that can deal with the odd loading stutter can experience some of the finest hack-and-slash combat on the market today.
The three button setup of Virtua Fighter 5: Ultimate Showdown has stood the test of time, providing an incredible amount of depth with a strong emphasis on the fundamentals. It's just a shame that the spotty netcode drags down the overall experience; those looking to seek out new challengers best come with a bit of patience.
Superstorm Melon Date's dystopian world tries to be original with its bizarre premise, but this visual novel follows the standard tropes of the genre a bit too closely to make a splash.
Describing a game as abstract and surreal might make it seem like it is cutting edge, but A Long Time and its inoffensive world plays things far too safe. While it doesn't waste the players time, it also feels like there should be more to it.
Bacon May Die plays it safe, featuring combo-heavy action that has a low skill ceiling. While it can be a fun way to get out some pent aggression, this little piggy just isn't king of the hill.