Michael Straw Avatar Image

Michael Straw


Favorite Games:
  • Heroes of Might & Magic 3
  • The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
  • Undertale

96 games reviewed
71.3 average score
71 median score
37.5% of games recommended

Michael Straw's Reviews

Veteran games journalist currently working as a senior editor for Insider Gaming.
Sep 27, 2018

All in all FIFA 19 is once again the most complete soccer game on the market today with tons of game modes and things to keep even the most hardcore soccer fanatics busy for hundreds of hours.

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Sep 24, 2018

Three years into its run, it's clear that NASCAR Heat is a series continuing to make a move to the front of the racing pack.

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Sep 16, 2018

It's not without its flaws, but NHL 19 is finally a game that any hockey fan would be better off picking up than skipping.

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Sep 11, 2018

The game makes the necessary adjustments to huge flaws from the previous year, with nice additions added in that keeps the 2K machine going as the Top Simulation Basketball Game on the market.

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3.5 / 5.0 - NBA Live 19
Sep 7, 2018

While it may have some issues like the lack of attention to Franchise mode and some gameplay problems — that are fixable –, one thing you can't deny is the overall package of NBA Live 19 nails what video games are supposed to be all about and that's delivering a fun experience for the gamer.

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Sep 4, 2018

The Golf Club 2019 presents a good challenge for new and experienced players alike, and does a nice job of making you feel like you've accomplished something anytime you pull off a successful round or tournament.

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I still recommend PES 2019 to anyone who is a fan of "The beautiful game" even if your favorite club is not licensed in the game this year.

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9 / 10.0 - F1 2018
Aug 18, 2018

F1 2018 is a game that once again shows why it's one of the best racing titles on the market. From a fun and deep career mode to an excellent on-track experience, it's everything that a racing fan would want in a video game.

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Aug 17, 2018

While it does improve on some things from its predecessor, there are still too many flaws to really recommend this game to anyone looking for an alternative football experience.

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7.5 / 10.0 - Madden NFL 19
Aug 7, 2018

In the end, Madden's pride and joy, Ultimate Team, has received the most impactful upgrades while the franchise mode fanbase will still feel as if Madden is still a solid two or three steps behind as they look over at other sports franchise modes.

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6 / 10.0 - Danger Zone 2
Jul 29, 2018

For what it is, Danger Zone 2 isn't a bad game.

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Jul 22, 2018

For the dedicated fan, Mario Tennis Aces is a must have.

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8.8 / 10.0 - Onrush
Jun 11, 2018

It's a one-of-a-kind experience that adds freshness to a market that desperately needed it. The vehicle abilities, awe-inspiring crashes, and the over-the-top action make Onrush a must play for anyone who enjoys racing games. Hell, even if driving games aren't your cup of tea, Onrush is one cup that everyone should try.

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May 5, 2018

It's fun and accessible enough that anyone can just pick it up and enjoy it while deep enough to keep even the biggest baseball purist entertained. When it's all said and done, Super Mega Baseball 2 could go down as the best baseball title of this generation of gaming.

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Apr 29, 2018

With no major improvements, awful presentation, mediocre gameplay and a higher-than-necessary price point, Casey Powell Lacrosse 18 is a game that only diehard fans of the sport will appreciate. And even that may be reaching a bit.

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8.7 / 10.0 - MLB 18: The Show
Mar 24, 2018

MLB The Show 18 is as deep an offering as Sony has ever put out despite the lack of an online franchise and a few smaller issues. From the incredibly in-depth modes like Road to the Show and Diamond Dynasty to the gameplay changes that see weather impact how a ball flies through the air and the way hits come off the bat, MLB The Show 18 is easier than ever to become invested in and enjoy.

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8.8 / 10.0 - EA Sports UFC 3
Feb 1, 2018

Even with the shortcomings in the grappling and submission systems, UFC 3 has so many positives that it's hard to deny the fact that it's the best MMA game ever created.

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Nov 27, 2017

Yet another attempt by EA to make the series relevant, Need for Speed Payback does few things right while doing so much wrong. From the dull and cliché story to the straight and narrow police chases, there's just nothing with this game that brings out any sort of excitement. The game looks nice and drives well, but it just isn't much fun which is the worst thing a video game can be.

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Nov 10, 2017

With fun on-field action, excellent visuals and a number of modes to choose from, Mutant Football League is the best arcade football game since NFL Street 2.

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Oct 20, 2017

If you haven't played the series since FHM 1 or 2, it's sure to blow you away. If you were big into the last edition then you may not find a lot different with this year's release aside from the Vegas addition, matchup screen, and some of the minor changes. It's just as deep as ever, but FHM 4 leaves you with a feeling of wanting more.

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