Casey Scheld's Reviews
Samurai Riot has a number of novel ideas, but the repetitive levels and wonky engine undo any good will. Those who are looking for the next coming of the beat-em-up will likely be disappointed with this title.
Senran Kagura: Peach Beach Splash knows exactly what it is. It's not the deepest game around, but those that can appreciate its absurdity will find a solid enough third person shooter that certainly stands out.
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.
An Oath to the Stars is a decent enough shmup that doesn't really stand out. Those with itchy trigger fingers will appreciate its score-based style, but its short length and standard gameplay don't make a lasting impact like the genre greats.
Super Comboman: Smash Edition wears its inspiration on its sleeve, but doesn't quite manage to rise above its source material. Diehard fans of Nintendo's Super Smash Bros. series may enjoy Struggles' moveset, but its unfair nature might turn some people off.
One Way Trip is an offensive title on all accounts. Though it may try something new, players will no doubt be turned off by this game within the first five minutes of playing it.
Though the plot moves slowly in episode 3 of Guardians of the Galaxy, it still sets the stage for something great. Those looking to learn more about the crew of the Milano may enjoy it, but the more impatient among us may see this chapter as a half step.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.