Casey Scheld's Reviews
Fans of catchy music, arcade-based rhythm gameplay, or even good games should give Project DIVA X a go. This is one of those titles that will stick with you, in more ways than one. After all, how can you resist the siren call of a VOCALOID?
VA-11 Hall-A's fresh take on the visual novel genre makes the jump to consoles with relative ease. Those that don't mind the occasional bit of salty language will find a cyberpunk adventure that will captivate you to the very end.
Old-school gamers and newcomers alike will find a lot to like in Shantae: Half-Genie Hero. It’s unique blend of humor, detailed art style, creativity, and platforming will appeal to most any type of gamer.
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.
The Silver Case is a rare breed of game that is a breath of fresh air in today's gaming landscape. The gameplay elements are somewhat rigid, but fans of gritty crime dramas or Suda51's distinct style will find a lot to like here.
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.
Danganronpa 1-2 Reload is an incredible value for fans both old and new. Those interested in a darker tale with some of the most unique anime flair ever created could do far worse than these two titles.
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.
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.
Super Hydorah goes toe-to-toe with Konami's Gradius series in terms of quality. Polished to a shiny sheen, those looking to relive the past will not be disappointed with this title.
A Hat is Time is a truly charming game. It does not quite have the polish of Nintendo or Rare's greats, but the sheer amount of originality and care that went into it makes it a must-play for platforming fans.
DJMax Respect has a steep learning curve, but it provides a rewarding experience with tons of content. Those willing to cut their teeth will find a rhythm game that can easily hang with the greats of the genre.
Rym 9000 is the coolest shmup you'll play this year. The game provides some serious challenge, but it always plays fair and is a treat to master.
UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH Exe:Late[st] is a flashy fighter that is a welcome addition to the fighting game community. It's not the deepest game around, but its unique mechanics and anime stylings will appeal to both novice fighters and seasoned vets.
Sonic Mania Plus offers a number of quality of life improvements, but the Encore Mode features some questionable design decisions. Those looking for more Sonic could do far worse than this title, but don't expect the extras to live up to the lofty standards set by Mania Mode.
Dragonward's resource management and roguelike elements make for an addicting formula that'll have you seek out the perfect run. The random elements are not always fair, but those willing to play past defeat will find much to like here.
Slipstream expands on the time-tested Outrun and dips it in a synthwave-flavored coating. Its gameplay might seem simple at first, but it provides a challenge that harkens back to the days of the quarter-munching greats.
NEO NEO is a breath of fresh air in the twin stick shooter space. Warping is a game changer, and its pick up and play nature makes it easy to jump in anytime.
Seek Etyliv's minimalistic stylings work greatly in the game's favor. Boiling everything down to a 3×3 grid does not take away from the challenge, and the aesthetics will keep you playing until every foe is vanquished and every puzzle is solved.
Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition shakes up the MetroidVania space with excellent worldbuilding and the challenge to match. Though the game does not hold your hand, those willing to face the world of Hallownest will find a game with a lot of “Soul.”