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Ben Chard


35 games reviewed
74.9 average score
75 median score
85.7% of games recommended
Mar 28, 2024

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth ups the ante in this unforgettable globe-trotting journey. Featuring some of the best characterization in gaming and a faithful and enjoyable recreation of Final Fantasy VII’s world, this is one train you won’t want to get off.

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Dec 6, 2023

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a gorgeous open-world adventure that, despite having some similarities to Ubisoft’s own Far Cry, has its own identity that begs you to explore every nook and cranny. That exploration won’t be for everyone, but for those of you tired of having your hands held, there’s a lot to see, do, and enjoy.

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Nov 8, 2023

Beyond the Dawn is a great time for those wanting more Tales of Arise, and the same great gameplay systems are all there, but it feels like a missed opportunity to expand upon what was an already great game given the time between release and DLC.

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Sep 20, 2023

A great follow-up to Cyberpunk 2077 with a stellar cast that brings a thrilling story to the streets of Dogtown. The gameplay changes bring it up to a better standard, but if you are not a fan of the original, don’t expect Phantom Liberty to change your mind.

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8.5 / 10.0 - Persona 5 Strikers
Feb 15, 2021

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.

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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.

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6 / 10.0 - Cyberpunk 2077
Jan 5, 2021

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.

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Nov 9, 2020

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.

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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!

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Sep 15, 2020

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.

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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.

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7 / 10.0 - Mortal Shell
Aug 17, 2020

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.

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6 / 10.0 - FAIRY TAIL
Jul 30, 2020

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.

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Jun 9, 2020

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.

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May 22, 2020

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.

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6.5 / 10.0 - Trials of Mana
Apr 22, 2020

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.

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Mar 10, 2020

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.

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Feb 4, 2020

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.

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Jan 23, 2020

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.

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Dec 16, 2019

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.

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