Codi Spence
My Big Sister is a pixelated top-down game with interesting premise. The light puzzles and weirdly appealing cast keep the game fairly light-hearted, but be prepared for some serious topics to come up. It doesn't take long to beat, but it's worth the time.
Battalion 1944 is a WWII shooter that doesn't do much to set itself apart or feel very memorable. The gameplay is alright, but bad spawns and quick deaths can be frustrating. Graphical issues are noticeable and break immersion. Wartide drags on for too long.
Layers of Fear 2 is a fascinating horror game that centers on exploring a mysterious ship and its ever-changing layout. It isn't the scariest game, but the unsettling nature of everything you encounter more than makes up for it. The constant environmental changes designed to mess with you are amazing and one of the best aspects.
Devious Dungeon 2 is an entertaining action platformer that adds onto the original's premise. Choosing a class made the game feel different enough while still retaining its charm. Buying equipment in order was still a drag, but it doesn't hurt the game too much.
Total War: Three Kingdoms is a fantastic addition to the series, taking place in the Three Kingdoms period of China's history. The gameplay requires patience and strategizing, but is satisfying when successful. With plenty of aspects to manage, you won't be wanting for something to do, although it may be too much for some gamers.
Hellmut: The Badass From Hell is an interesting rogue-like shooter where you can transform into various deadly creatures. The gameplay is engaging but doesn't get too difficult and doesn't take long to complete a run. Having multiple forms is fascinating and very helpful in the long run.
Devious Dungeon is a simplistic action platformer that is entertaining to play. The combat is easy to learn but you still need to be careful of enemy attacks. The step-by-step equipment purchases is a bit of a bummer though.
Mortal Kombat 11 offers the same gory, over-the-top violence that we've come to love from the series. The story is interesting, meshing past and present together in a fun way. Several modes offer replayability, but the grinding resources for the Krypt may get tedious.
Ritual of the Moon is a reflection of life, tranquility, and choice that is more of an experience than a game. The paper aesthetic and color palette fit the tone perfectly. There's not much in terms of content, but the short bursts are nice each day.
Driftland: The Magic Revival is a mix of RTS and god game that focuses on the realm of magic. The indirect control of individual units and their free will can lead to insubordination, which ruins the fun. Planning out your moves is the key to success.
Earth Defense Force: Iron Rain lets you blast away at hordes of alien enemies, making you feel powerful. The framerate drops when too many enemies appear, but it doesn't ruin the game. The story isn't very compelling, but manning your PA gear in combat makes up for that.
God's Trigger is a fast-paced top down shooter in the realm of Hotline Miami, which brings with it some brutal deaths. The various abilities and ways to attack are fantastic. The story doesn't delve deep, but it does what's needed to keep you engaged.
Weedcraft Inc. is an interesting tycoon game that focuses on the weed business. The premise may be controversial to some, but it offers an experience not typically known by people. The resource management can be challenging and fun, though the soundtrack may get annoying.
Hob: The Definitive Edition is a 3D adventure game that combines fluid combat, landscape altering puzzles, and engaging platforming. The varying area designs and atmospheres are a treat to experience and entice you into pushing forward. The enhancements since the original improve the experience as well.
Dying Reborn is an escape room game with some creepy elements to it. The story has an interesting premise, but quickly becomes uninteresting and confusing. Some puzzles feel rewarding, while far too many feel obscure and annoying.
Akashicforce is an incredibly challenging puzzle game that feels rewarding when you succeed. The bumping music, fantastical visuals, and fast-paced action keep you engaged. A tutorial would've helped the start of the game immensely.
Peasant Knight is a nostalgic 2D platformer with a unique twist. Being tasked with strategically stopping while racing a time limit provides a fantastic challenge. The game won't take too long to beat, but boy is it a fun ride.
Himno is a relaxing 2D platformer where death only comes from falling. The levels are dark and ruin-like, yet emit tranquility and beauty as well. It's best played in short bursts, but if you just want to turn off your brain and relax, here's your chance.
The Second Chance Strip Club is an odd yet surprisingly charming rhythm game about stripping. The gameplay is simple yet challenging, with a musical focus. The quirky characters and catchy beats are a treat, but don't expect much animation for the actual dancing.
Golf Peaks is an interesting mix of puzzle-solving and golfing. The card playing mechanic is entertaining and adds a good challenge. It doesn't take very long to complete every level, but it's a nice journey.