Codi Spence
Filament offers around 300 puzzles ranging from easy to extremely challenging, with some being mind-boggling. With a variety of puzzle mechanics used, gameplay is kept from getting repetitive. Investigating the happenings of the crew is interesting, although the ending is potentially vague and confusing.
KARDS is a free to play WWII card battler that combines card battling with resource management. You'll need to think carefully about what cards you play and when if you want to succeed. There are some balance issues, but nothing that ruins the game entirely. Online matchmaking is the quickest I've ever seen.
Pattern is a unique game about exploring the mysterious lands around you and learning about the creator's mindset. The visuals are a wonder to look at, especially coupled with the peaceful atmosphere. Unfortunately, there's not much else to do and the appeal wears off after about an hour or so.
Dogurai is an homage to retro platformers like Mega Man, with the inspirations being very clear. Simple controls and infinite lives make it easy to pick up and play, although it only takes a couple hours to complete. Some sections can be a bit tough, but overall it's a good time.
Bug Academy is a goofy game where you control four types of bugs in pursuit of wacky goals such as tossing cows, putting out fires, and much more. With a cartoony aesthetic and wonky controls, you're in for an insect filled treat. It doesn't last very long, but it's worth it.
Iron Danger is an interesting story of a young woman who obtains magical powers from a shard impaling her. The tactical combat and ARPG mechanics make for clever gameplay and a lack of grinding, although some fights are frustrating. The story itself is good, but the ending drags it down a lot by leaving you unsatisfied and wanting more.
Hypergalactic Psychic Table Tennis 3000 is a quirky twist on the classic Pong, where RPG and dating sim mechanics are added. Gameplay may get a bit repetitive, but health bars, spells, leveling up, and romancing add more depth to the game as a whole. With a low $2 price tag, and plenty of paddles to face, you've got a great reason to hop on in.
Hero must die. again shifts focus to the end of the typical RPG story, resulting in a shorter, more somber experience.
Table Manners is a dating game with intentionally wonky controls that tests your ability to impress dates with only one hand. It may seem like a butler simulator, but the reasoning behind your actions doesn't ruin the fun. Some people may get annoyed with the game's controls and design, but fans of Surgeon Simulator are sure to love it.
Zombie Army 4: Dead War is a great addition to the franchise, even if it's your first time experiencing it. The gunplay is awesome, especially if you activate a kill cam shot. The enemies provide a tough challenge, so be careful and don't get cocky. You can do it alone, but I highly recommend shooting with a buddy.
Dwarrows mixes town building, resource management, puzzle solving, and peaceful exploration into one enjoyable package. The lack of combat may turn some off, but it's not a detriment to the game. The various tasks, rewarding progression, and relaxing gameplay make this a winner for sure.
Mandate of Heaven is an interesting DLC that adds the events leading up to and including the Yellow Turban Rebellion. Incite the rebellion or attempt to crush it, it's your choice. Be prepared for challenging situations that may frustrate you and make you want to stop. Longtime fans of the series and genre may appreciate the challenge more.
Seven Days is a visual novel that focuses on themes of life, relationships, and loss. It's filled with charming characters, cute moments, and funny dialogue, but also heartbreaking moments and plenty of loss. If you want a powerful story, you've got one, but be ready to sink a good deal of time into helping these girls.
Avicii Invector is a beautiful tribute to the late artist Avicii (Tim Bergling). With a fantastic soundtrack, sci-fi visuals, and challenging gameplay, you'll want to keep on playing. The lack of online multiplayer is a bummer and the length is short, but it's a great time.
Draw Chilly is a 2D hack n'slash game that focuses on one man's mission to redirect wayward souls. With the help of an undead squad, a deadly weapon, and crazy abilities, Vladimir will earn his place in Purgatory. Some enemies and bosses are tough, but if you act carefully, you'll make it through.
Little Dungeon Stories is a charming little roguelike with card-based choice mechanics and relaxing gameplay. Gameplay gets repetitive and isn't very exciting, so it's best saved for short bursts of gaming. Even so, the interesting twist on the formula is worth checking out.
Dark Devotion is a 2D action game that focuses on combat and exploration. With a variety of weapons and items, foes, and branching pathways, you'll have plenty to fight with and experience. Some enemies, especially certain bosses, are frustrating and may have you considering throwing your controller. Even so, succeeding feels rewarding.
Death Stranding is a story of rebuilding America by connecting people far and wide. Stealth, exploration, combat, and inventory management are all necessary in order to succeed. With a fantastic cast, incredible set pieces, an engaging story, and Kojima's brand of incredibly enjoyable crazy, you won't want to put your controller down.
Grid offers an enjoyable racing experience that tests your driving skills. With the nemesis feature, a ton of racing personalities, and the flashback feature, there's a good amount to make it unique. There are some annoying track designs that drag you down, but most of them are winners.
Warsaw is a tactical turn-based game with some interesting aspects, although some of them hurt more than help. The setting is neat and the plot has real stakes, which is nice in a wartime game. The injury system along with ammo management will likely be a hit or miss for many.