Rebecca Stow's Reviews
A storytelling masterpiece
Below struggles with its identity and, with gameplay dramatically shifting between enthralling exploration and bothersome survival, the game never quite finds it footing.
Perfecting the mechanics the franchise established way back in 1999, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a crazy, chaotic joy. With a gargantuan roster of fighters, an amazing adventure mode and more unlockables than would ever have seemed possible, this is a game that packs one heck of a punch.
Everything aside from the story is simplistic, but it doesn't matter if the puzzles are non-existent or that the graphics are basic, because The First Tree packs an emotional narrative and is a game that every indie fan should play as a result.
Subnautica is a perfect example an open world survival game that doesn't rely on action, horror or combat elements to excite. Whilst these classic gaming features are involved to an extent, they take a back seat compared to the story, crafting and surviving elements. And this is what sets Subnautica apart from other survival experiences out there. Don't let this be the one that got away.
At the heart of the game is the message of corruption, suffering and horror. Though it falters slightly due to its weak combat system the game is otherwise delightful and, with a unique and twisted story, Bendy and the Ink Machine is an indie title that coloured me terrified.
An eerie open world filled with deadly AI enemies elevates The Forest above a good number of survival horror experiences out there. Don't let the lack of story and minor repetition turn you off this atmospheric title.
Graphics are the main standout feature of indie game and the games unique visual style leaves a strong impression on the player. The narrative whilst simplistic is endearing and the concept stands out as memorable and unique, Moonlighter is a intriguing and clever approach at the action adventure genre and one which will have no trouble standing out.
Pinstripe is the result of one man’s passionate attempt to create a whimsical tale which sits shoulder to shoulder with other highly regarded indie titles. Pinstripe not only matches the success of these games but in some cases surpasses them by delivering a clean cut adventure, one which is hard to forget and easy to recommend.
For now, the future of the final season is up in the air and we can’t be sure as to what will happen with the two remaining unpublished episodes. If this is the last, we see of Clementine its been a bittersweet adventure, one which I hope gets the ending it deserves.
Quinn is the one who explores the game, each nook and cranny and the one who is a threat from a ticking clock. For the most part you are just a passenger in his story, it’s a great concept but a few creases need ironing out to make STAY an truly unmissable game.
The Long Dark is a well cultivated survival game with an enthralling story mode heavily influenced by the early access survival mode which granted the game success back in 2014. The Long Dark beautifully pairs together intense survival an intriguing story resulting in an entrancing and addictive experience. With more content to come in future The Lone Dark is rewarding and enjoyable game, one that makes it worth struggling through those long cold nights.
Just from the first episode is impossible to know the layout for the final season. Done Running gives players a taste of its new graphical style, collectibles and introduces an array of secondary characters, most of which probably won’t survive to see the finale. Done Running is just a taster of what’s to come, and we’re hungry for more.
Planet Alpha is an enjoyable sci-fi indie, one that is undeniably stunning and engaging thanks to a unique day-night dynamic and interesting puzzles. Its major downfall is the glaring predictability of the story, but most players will be over the moon with what this game has to offer.
With challenging racing and a diverse car management system, F1 2018 is filled with endless opportunity. Although undeniably similar to last season's effort, small changes have improved the overall experience enough to merit a revisit. And, ultimately, F1 2018 takes the chequered flag as the best F1 instalment to date.
We Happy Few is enticing, and the premise of this twisted dystopian thriller certainty has its hooks. The setting is eerie and heavily implemented regulations leave the city of Wellington Wells feeling dense with pressure and rules. It’s a tale reminiscent of George Orwell’s 1984, but for this game to also become a classic it still needs some work.
Whilst State of Mind boasts an impressive level of immersion for an indie title, its let down by its content. Half is exciting and fresh and involves unravelling the plot and exposing the secrets of the game, whereas the other half feels like filler. It’s a slow burning mystery and one that has a great finale and conclusion, but slow gameplay may result in the stones in this thriller being left upturned.
Overall the game encompasses a powerful message told in a powerful way. Everything is thoughtfully implemented, faded colours show signs of depression and in Anamorphine small and subtle acts lead to bigger things. Anamorphine and its core message made me wonder. However, when I look back on this game I will remember the lags, repetition hidden amidst Elena’s powerful story.
Sticking with Hello Neighbor takes a lot of patience and forgiveness. While the lure of the secret in the basement is a strong one, the glitches, complicated puzzles, and problematic AI all make for a giant slog. With improvements this indie could be a spine-tingling horror game, one which plays on deep childhood fears and leaves a lasting impression, but in its current state, we wish that we'd just stayed at home.
Airheart: Tales of Broken Wings has potential but without a solid story powering it forward and lots of tedious grinding, you'll struggle to see it through to the end. While the game is visually stunning and at least exciting in principle, Airheart never quite takes flight.