Thomas McDermott
For people that once loved Descent, and in their heart of hearts still do, Sublevel Zerois a compelling answer for those that want a modern day take on the genre. It is not without issues though. It is an expertly crafted 6DOF game with tight controls, but the rogue parts of its cross genre appeal are rough enough around the edges to be problematic.
Sure, all the gaping wounds that have plagued the series over the years are slowly getting fixed with each year that passes, but that does not change the fact this is a very sick series. In its current form I believe it is one that can never rise above mediocrity.
Aviary Attorney could've quite easily been a birdbrained game built solely to ruffled some of Capcom's feathers.
Like Chrysalis, Awake once again feels like the beginning of something great.
I have an ongoing, unending urge to dig my way to every secret corner of the map, and I will once again embark on this journey the moment I stop writing. I highly recommend you start your journey as I continue mine.
Just like Stardew Valley filled a void in the hearts of those missing Harvest Moon, Golf Story does what Nintendon't by delivering a highly competent take on the Mario Golf RPG formula – an offshoot of a franchise that has gone missing for well over a decade. Golf Story likely wouldn't have existed without looking to gaming's past for inspiration but that hardly makes it a knockoff. It excels in every way you'd hope a game in this niche but fascinating genre would.
Like a top-notch episode of a great TV show Oxenfree presents a well told singular story in parallel with interesting mythology.
Brave New World is yet another piece of lovingly crafted evidence that should banish any lingering doubt about the developer. They are a highly capable team and a near perfect fit for this series.
Hidden Agenda is a game built to be played with friends, but ultimately I found the most fun in single player. It is also a game made to be finished in one sitting, but I grew to like it more after two playthroughs.
AER is at its best whilst flying through the sky with little care in the world for the extra tasks the game demands.
The Mummy Demastered is a retro inspired game good enough to both whet the nostalgic urges of people of a certain age whilst fulfilling the needs of newcomers alike.
Cat Quest turned out to be a low impact game with a high emphasis on fun.
Before the Storm redefines what a Life is Strange game can be.
I don't often criticize a game for not living up to the standards of another but Tiny Metal tries so hard to mirror Nintendo's approach I must speak up when I see failings.
There may be much of Rumu's narrative that is not wholly original, but the story excels as it engages modern human sensibilities.
In many ways The Council is a brave step forward for narrative adventures; offering a multitude of ways to mold your character; more so than any effort in the genre before it.