Casey Scheld's Reviews
Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl attempts to follow the Super Smash Bros. formula, but it just doesn’t take things far enough. There’s a general lack of polish to its presentation and its physics, making it hard for even the most diehard Nicktoons fan to get engaged. Not even Nigel Thornberry and his smashing antics can save this platform fighter.
The arcade action of Centipede: Recharged is inoffensive, but there simply isn’t enough content here to justify its price tag. Even the most devout score chaser will likely get bored with this title’s lack of variety, and its bland aesthetics seal its fate.
Those with a pocket full of quarters and a fervent love for the classics will be right at home with the side-scrolling action of Steel Assault. It might be a bit on the short side, but it encourages absolute mastery - just mind the gap.
Those with a taste for speedy fighters will be right at home with Melty Blood: Type Lumina. The series' in-depth mechanics are alive and well in this reboot, making this arguably the best entry yet.
Horatio Goes Snowboarding’s got the downhill action - and even the yeti - of Ski Free, but the start-and-stop pacing between runs prevent this blue fellow’s run from being a new casual classic.
Is World Racing ‘95 a retro throwback that will drum up nostalgia? Absolutely. However, despite looking and sounding the part, the awkward physics and slower action prevent it from hitting the same speed as AM2’s arcade classic.
The bad girls of idolYAKI are certainly bad, but for all of the wrong reasons. While this visual novel has got a novel concept, the execution and presentation prove to be too much of a has been to make an impact.
Those with the gambler’s spirit will enjoy raking in the dough with PEGGO!’s pachinko action, but this cathartic experience is a bit repetitive. It’s great for fans of multiplier frenzies, but less so for those looking for something a bit meatier.
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.