Casey Scheld's Reviews
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Packing a unique hook, a high skill ceiling, and oodles of style, Lethal League is a worthy addition to the competitive gaming scene. It may not have tons of characters or stages, but what is here will keep players smashing away for years to come.
FlatOut 4: Total Insanity is what you make out of it. Though its Career mode drags on, the game has a number of different options that are sure to appeal to almost any kind of racer. It's not the most polished or refined racer on the market today, but its raw thrills will resonate with old-school gearheads yearning for days gone by.
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.
The fourth episode of The Walking Dead: A New Frontier is all build up and no payoff. The erratic behavior that occurs when going slightly off-script absolutely shatters any semblance of a cohesive narrative. Here's hoping the next chapter offers a more consistent and well-written story.
PaRappa the Rapper Remastered suffers greatly from being a lazy port with no extra features. The lack of calibration settings stings, but those willing to overlook its faults will find a unique experience worth at least one playthrough.
Bullet Soul takes liberal notes from classic 90s shooters like Raiden, putting the focus on firing and dodging bullets. Though it lacks the depth and replayabilty of classics like Ikaruga or Radiant Silvergun, players looking to rise the leaderboards will enjoy blasting through waves of alien scum.
The first episode of Telltale's Guardians of the Galaxy felt like it was phoned in. Though the trademark characters and world is there, it lacks the essence that put the series on the map. Here's hoping future episodes recapture the spirit that made the comics and movie so great.