Matt Hewson's Reviews
Like its predecessors it is dark, depressing and engaging, a game where you never feel comfortable. But unlike its predecessors, this feels like a complete package, not a promising game let down by technical issues. This is the best Metro has ever been and is one of the best FPS adventures that money can buy. Do not miss it.
neither the RPG or combat components are individually as strong as the games it is so clearly inspired by, but together they combine to create a wonderfully unique experience that takes both genres in new directions. Add to this some wonderful stealth mechanics and a sound and visual design second to none and Mutant Year Zero has easily climbed its way into my top games of the year.
In all, Big Bash Boom feels like a noble first effort in the arcade genre for Big Ant. Issues with graphics and a lack of game modes are pretty well countered by some solid gameplay and a nice sense of humour.
Speed based fisticuffs so good you wonder why no one else has done it before. An absolute blast and a must buy for fans of Sonic or Final Fight.
In all NBA 2k Playgrounds 2 lacks some of the simplicity of NBA Jam but more than holds its own with added features, an addictive gameplay loop and a fun, cartoonish presentation style. The microtransactions are the only downer in what is otherwise a stellar bit of arcade fun, one that should be enjoyed by anyone that has regular game nights with friends.
The only way 2K and the WWE will listen is if their poor excuse for a video game doesn’t sell. That way we might finally get the Stone Cold Steve Austin level game we deserve, not the Baron Corbin level game we have been getting.
High quality fisticuffs on the go that will satisfy long-term fans of the franchise without scaring of newcomers. A wonderful addition to the fighting game pool
As a Mega Man game, this version stands tall. However, there is no escaping the fact the formula is starting to show its age. Tough, challenging platforming we have all seen before.
The welcoming, customisable nature of the game coupled with jaw-dropping graphics, an endless supply of events, a meaningful weather and season system and a series-best suite of online components means that Forza Horizon 4 is the best in its class, bar none.
It is by no means a bad game but due to its lineage, its problems seem much greater than they should. I, without a doubt, enjoyed my time within the game, but at the same time, I felt it could have been just that bit better, that bit more refined. As a result, I was never hooked in the way that I was with Rise of the Tomb Raider and it left me feeling a little down. Shadow of the Tomb Raider is well worth playing and it is an entertaining game, it just isn't as good as it could have been and that is a giant shame.
Barring a massive rethink from 2K in regards to their microtransaction focus, I think NBA 2K19 is the last NBA 2K game I will be excited for. It is clear the developers only see its consumers as a walking pile of cash so why would I willingly subscribe to that philosophy.
A wonderful suite of different game modes are on offer and keep the gameplay fresh and exciting, while the gameplay itself is fast, fluid and flexible. NBA Live 19 is a huge leap forward for the franchise and one that promises to entertain until next year’s entry. Well done EA, you have brought Live back from the dead.
Sure Golf is a bit of a niche sport and doesn’t appeal to everyone, but for those that do enjoy a round, this is easily the best game available. It is much more welcoming than previous titles, includes the ability to play through the sport’s premier competition and has a never-ending supply of content thanks to the wonderful course creator. As a Golf fan, what more could you possibly want?
To say Divinity: Original Sin 2 is an outstanding example of the CRPG genre would be underselling. With a story that feels like a best-selling fantasy novel, a combat system that is deep and intuitive and a world that is interconnected in ways the boggle the mind, Original Sin 2 should be a must buy for any RPG fan. It requires dedication and demands your attention, but any sacrifice you make to play the game is well worth it.
The Banner Saga 3 is a dark, enthralling end to one of the best stories in gaming, a story that needs to be experienced by all.
Red Faction: Guerrilla is a game that knows its place in life and owns it. A game so confident in its gimmick that nothing else in the game world matters. It was refreshing when it was released and it is still refreshing now. No heavy stories, no deep combat systems, just a man, his hammer and a giant playground waiting to be torn apart. Bliss.
So with The Crew 2, I am left a little split on my feelings. There is nothing in the game I can point at and say “that’s bad” but there is undeniably something missing, something lacking. It is a game I will probably play on and off in the future, dipping in for a quick blast of boating or off-road fun, but I don’t think I will sink any more serious time into. This is a polished game that looks great and basically does what it says on the box but still is somehow less than the sum of its parts.
I warn you, no implore you, do not buy this game. Publishers don’t deserve to make a cent on a game that has clearly been rushed out to exploit a hole in the market, with no thought to actually making a good, working game. Sorry Tennis fans, the wait for a good game continues.
With ONRUSH, Codemasters has given arcade racing a shot in the arm. It has taken a tired genre and freshened it up by changing what the goal should be in a racing game. With the omission of standard races and the focus on teamwork this is a type of game that has never been seen before and should be a must but for anyone who gains even the slightest enjoyment from ultra speeds and vehicular mayhem.
A beautifully told gothic tale with interesting skill systems and some fun combat is only let down by window dressing and a location that feels like a stage and not an actual city. Vampyr might not be the game of the year, but it is certainly going to be one of the most interesting titles we see in 2018 and, sales permitting, a title that will only get better in future sequels.