Casey Scheld's Reviews
BATTLE ZOMBIE SHOOTER: SURVIVAL OF THE DEAD is a generic shooter that brings nothing new to the table. This is one broken game, and there is no incentive to even give this title a passing glance.
Jumponaut has got his heart in the right place, but its puzzle platforming formula just provides far too much frustration for any extended period of time.
Brain 43℃ is a poorly made visual novel. The blatant grammatical errors and pretentious tone do not do the game any favors, and make its already short length feel like an eternity.
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.
Manaya tries something new with its roguelike elements, but the lack of depth and effort that went into the game is apparent. It just feels too one dimensional, and it is hard to get invested in the game when repetition sets in early on.
Grabity is a casual party game that largely succeeds at what it tries to do. It's not the deepest or unique title around, but those looking for a new game for their group can do far worse.
In a game that lives and dies by its physics, the engine powering Curling World Cup is positively broken. It's nearly impossible to play a consistent game, and this fact takes away the one redeeming quality of this title.
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.
Project Pastorate's world is one full of character, but the execution of its story could have used some fine-tuning. Those looking for something different can certainly find it here, but don't be surprised if you end up checking the Velvet Book for notes on more than one occasion.
Tempest 4000's time-tested gameplay still rings true, but some of the visual and design elements in this release add some unintended challenge. For what is ultimately an updated quarter-muncher, it has a steep price, but those looking to relive the past in 4K could do far worse than this title.
20XX's physics are almost a perfect recreation of a certain blue bomber, but the roguelike elements don't always work as they should. The procedurally generated levels don't have the same spark as Capcom's offerings, and its permadeath is an acquired taste.
Super Pillow Fight takes a one-note joke and puts a price tag on it. It is not fun to play, and the lack of detail that went into its engine is apparent.
Boxes Inc. tries to tap into the same vein as titles like Papers, Please, but this title does not have any of the charm or enjoyability. It feels like work, and there is little satisfaction to be had in its mailroom.
Visceral Cubes is a horror game that lacks soul. Not much effort was put into its world, making it an easy pass for even the most diehard fans of the genre.
Blood Waves feels like a pale imitation of Resident Evil's Mercenaries mode. Though the traps players can set add some variety, the lack of character and polish in this title is blatantly apparent.
Fighting EX Layer does not have a lot of options or fighters to choose from, but it does have a lot of heart. A lot of work went into its design, and those looking for a fighter that is a little out of the ordinary should set out to master its unique system.
MissileDancer changes up the shmup formula just enough to stand out. It's lack of difficulty and short length hinder its replayability, but those looking for something new could do far worse than this title.
The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit attempts to set the stage for Chris and his heroic adventures, but the execution is lacking. Its lack of focus, along with its robust “Awesome Things to Do” chore list, make its two hour runtime drag out far longer than it has any right to.
Null Vector takes two great things and combines them to make something even better. Its short length and lack of variables somewhat take away from this title, but those who don't mind repeatedly playing through similar scenarios for the perfect run will enjoy the roguelike elements in play here.
For those who have never played a Lumines game before, Lumines Remastered is a must buy. However, though the HD upgrade adds to its audiovisual splendor, don't be surprised if it feels a little too by the books.