Trevor Gould's Reviews
The ball is still in play in Pinball FX, and we hope it doesn't wind up in the drain early. While fun, it's a clear step back from FX3 visually on the Switch, and in terms of content. New players should still have a blast, but for existing fans, Zen Studios has let us down.
It's a shame that the unique elements of Onigo Hunter (monster acquisition, map trimming) have only a marginal impact. You're left with a generic RPG, the kind that many uninformed associate with the publisher. This game could be comfort food to grab on sale, but there are superior offerings from this publisher.
Atlus gave DS series fans more of what they enjoyed with this entry. Now, thanks to SEGA's publishing, additional players can experience what all the fuss was about. It's unnecessary for me to extend this review any further with nostalgic gushing or flirts with spoilers. To conclude, while newcomers might prefer starting with the first game to determine if its repetition becomes addictive, existing fans might find Etrian Odyssey III HD is the installment they want.
A lower learning curve gives Garden Simulator accessibility the genre isn't known for. The lack of touchscreen support is a negative worth noting, but the overall title (quirks and all) evens out as something worth digging a little deeper into.
While I can't say I'll reach for this over its predecessors, Puzzle Bobble Everybubble! Is a good (replayable) entry more often than not, and recommended. Younger players and families who can enjoy local co-op should have this higher on their wishlist than solo players who might wait for a sale (or update with more online options). The new Puzzle Bobble vs. Space Invaders is a sizable draw!
Farming Simulator 23 is a well-executed title for what it is, and it even offers touch screen support for handheld players. However, it's the type of game that's best appreciated when you're in the right mood. If and when that moment strikes, it can serve as a good, if somewhat repetitive way to unwind.
Even with an inconveniently designed save system, Lunark is a game I'll look back fondly on for reaching the highest of highs. It's easily one of my favorite titles in recent years, one I'll undoubtedly revisit. A must-play for cinematic platformer fans, Lunark's full of surprises, bound to leave lasting positive impressions with players. If this is indie studio Canari Games' first release, I can't wait to see what they come up with next.
My gaming acumen recognizes Rakuen: Deluxe Edition as a high-quality release that checks most of the right boxes. At the same time, this is a title I simply never want to play again and am anxious to forget. Its heavy-handed final act is unpleasantly predictable, making a game that felt fresh feel paradoxically clichéd. People grieve differently, and many will meld with this finished product. But I'm left saying it's a good game that's not for me: too bitter without enough sweetness to offset it.
Papertris is solid for its budget price. While I would've liked more options (and a consistent challenge), it's a game built off classics. Local and online leaderboards help, too.
Colossal Cave was a classic text adventure, but whether this reimagined take is "the adventure you've longed for" might boil down to your tolerance for dated elements. So much has changed in the decades since the original title, and the developer and Roberta Williams were household names in the gaming community. Going through the passages of this non-linear adventure can still be a mysterious, secret-filled romp. But it's likely best tackled with a good dose of nostalgia.
The shadow of a prior collection from mere months earlier, plus the fact that this is pricier (while still feeling incomplete), is tough to ignore. Yet there are still plenty of good games here, so Wonder Boy Anniversary Collection is one to grab on sale.
Alphadia Neo is a steadily entertaining RPG for 15 hours, give or take your side quest consumption. Extra challenges and a handful of post-game extras are a bonus. With enjoyable battling and fun fishing, this one is better than the sum of its parts and comes recommended.
I see Papetura having a broad appeal to both fans of cinematic puzzle platformers and graphic adventures. It doesn't overstay its welcome, yet it feels fully realized. It grew on me, and I suspect I'm not alone. With attractive visuals, a captivating world, and more, this game is well worth your attention.
Super Kiwi 64 is pretty decent overall and won't hurt your wallet. That said, despite the many things working in its favor, it has a rough around the edges feel I didn't expect. A patch may determine if this a game you go back to every so often or if it's a one-and-done deal.
Paradise Marsh seems less concerned about being an "adventure" and more about delivering feelings. Some will no doubt appreciate its efforts. Others, like me, might feel it needs to work harder at providing what's advertised. I feel bad knocking a solo dev's first release, but I sincerely enjoyed little of my short time with this game, same as our contributor with whom I sought a second opinion. The visual and gameplay repetition combine with other shortcomings to make a forgettable title. Next time.
Whether you're looking for a nostalgic kick, curious to check out rare titles, or looking to bone up on games of a bygone era, Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration has you covered. Yes, some odd omissions, seemingly from something other than licensing, leave you wondering. And there are numerous redundant and "one time is enough" games. But the rare gems are worth finding, playing, and replaying.
Arkanoid Eternal Battle is an approachable game that delivers some timeless fun. But much like Bubble Bobble 4 Friends, it's another Taito arcade classic that's taken one step forward, two steps back. It brings less content to the table while asking for more money from the players. With online being something of a ghost town, I suggest waiting for a price reduction.
Beeny knows what it is, and the 99-cent price reflects that. While pretty good is probably the most it could hope for with its scant content, it is fun while it lasts. The enjoyable graphics and music certainly help, too.
While those more familiar with the series might have some gripes, Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival was an excellent introduction for me. No worries about being overly skilled at these types of games; you'll have a good time, especially if you have friends in the room for a party-type setting. But even more solo gamers will have the main story and many unlockables to keep them busy. Whether competing or cooperating, this could be a ton of fun for family gatherings.
Murder on the Marine Express has plenty of issues, an unlikeable lead being chief among them. But, for better or worse, it doesn't overstay its welcome due to its two-hour length. For the budget price, genre fans can wishlist it and hope for a more developed sequel.