Despite expecting a Persona spinoff with Warriors style combat, Persona 5 Strikers is a Persona 5 sequel in every sense of the word. This is a must play for fans of the original although those here for a Warriors style game may be left disappointed by the focus on the story and out of combat moments.
Gust have spent a little longer than they usually do with Atelier Ryza 2 and the game is much improved over the first in nearly every way.
Cyberpunk 2077 is a game that was never going to live up to the massive hype it generated but what was released is an unfinished game with too many issues that may be beyond saving.
Watch Dogs: Legion is a disappointing follow up to Watch Dogs 2, no lessons have been learnt and despite enjoying the sights of London as a local, repetition in mission design coupled with dialogue feeling like a poor Guy Ritchie knock-off leaves a lot to be desired.
All said and done, Trails of Cold Steel IV is more of the same from its predecessor last year while bringing in more of the wider Legend of Heroes series to light. Those without prior knowledge will certainly miss out on a lot but for those who have been around since the start, this is one finale you will not want to miss!
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is an emotional rollercoaster packed in a visual novel style gameplay that is excellent from start to finish. The lackluster battle system lets it down and at times, gets in the way of a game that would be better without it.
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles is still as fun as it ever was, but the new additions fail to make an impact and in some places, lessen the experience.
Mortal Shell is an excellent first game from Cold Symmetry and although light on content, I cannot wait to see more of Mortal Shell down the line.
Fairy Tail is a fun romp through the kingdom of Fiore with many interesting features although newcomers to the franchise may feel lost at times with the story.
Despite being a remaster of a VITA game, Ys: Memories of Celceta is another excellent addition to the Ys series that is now accessible to a larger fanbase where it may perhaps get the recognition it deserves.
As a newcomer to both visual novels and the Utawarerumono series, it tells a compelling story that introduces you to a fantastic world. The story is entertaining throughout, and the battles are fun enough if a little basic.
Trials of Mana is the pure definition of an AA game and that is not necessarily a criticism, not every game has to be a AAA blockbuster. Indeed, despite my grievances with a lot of the game’s issues, I never once disliked my time with the game and hopefully this is the start of a revival for the Mana series.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a masterpiece in every single way. A thought provoking storyline, unbelievable music and plenty of customization. This is Ori bigger and better and a strong contender for game of the generation.
Re Mind is a fantastic DLC for those that are seeking a greater challenge than the base game offered. For those here for the story, you’ll be left sorely disappointed but with everything else the package offers, there’s something for everyone.
Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is a great RPG that deserved a second chance on a more popular console. The changes might not be numerous but what is there elevates the game beyond the original and for those with a tolerance of the idol industry, you’ll find a fantastic RPG that fills that Persona void on the Switch.
SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions may not be a game for everyone but for those willing to not judge the game on its presentation will find a rich world with a unique gameplay experience unlike any other. This is a great starting place for new SaGa fans and one of the best yet for long time fans.
All in all, Trails of Cold Steel III is an excellent Legend of Heroes game that brings the series to a more modern standard. The graphics are a lot better, the battle system is a lot more in-depth if not easy to break and the story is intriguing throughout. If you’re new to the series or have only played the previous Cold Steel games however, you’ll find yourself lost at times with the overall plot and many of the new areas and characters introduced here.
Ultimately, The Alliance Alive HD Remaster is an interesting call back to the JRPGs of old and the excellent combat system is its saving grace. If you played the original back on the Nintendo 3DS, there’s not enough new features to dive in for a second time however if you missed out on this game the first time around then The Alliance Alive HD Remaster is a competent if somewhat unremarkable game.
The Surge 2 improves upon the first game in almost every way which is a huge testament to how far Deck 13 have come as a developer. If you disliked the first game and found no enjoyment anywhere, you’ll most likely find nothing for you here but if there were parts you enjoyed about the original, the Surge 2 improves upon it and makes the sci-fi Soulslike genre it’s own.
Blasphemous is a great addition to the genre and it truly feels like a unique creation able to stand fine on its own without taking too much from other games out there. The world and lore are fantastic and enough to keep anyone with a passing interest engrossed to the very end.