Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden is a fun romp through an apocalyptic, post-human Earth, Mutants and all. Engaging gameplay mechanics and room for creativity make this lovely title worth giving a shot. And your brain will surely get some healthy exercise from strategizing victory in this turn-based, tactical adventure and may even undergo a mutation or two.
Spyro Reignited is a shining example of a modern remaster for an old school classic done right. Spyro's original series on the PS1 is now handsomely dressed in enhanced visuals, animations, and redesigns thanks to the team over at Toys for Bobs. All three games are presented in picturesque graphics that are right out of a Pixar film, bolstering lighthearted charm everywhere you look. The crisp and fluid controls still stand the test of time, echoing the overall craftsmanship of the originals and that unique soundtrack composed by Stewart Copeland is still drumming along to the beat of its own drum. Spyro's original series translates seamlessly onto a modern generation of consoles.
Save Me Mr. Tako! is a wonderful title that holds all the qualities that made the old-school retro Gameboy games what they were. The monochromatic visuals and retrograde audio tie the whole ensemble together in this call back to an older era of games. Yet, frustrating and drab level design act as a counterweight to all the positives the game has to offer. The fun factor is just a bit lacking as a result.
Blade Strangers is a fun and charming 2D fighter that is readily open for any kind of player to enjoy. Whether you're a newcomer to the fighting genre or a hardened veteran that instinctually whiff punishes anything. Everyone can play this game and appreciate the obscurely, iconic roster of characters and stages that Nicalis and Studio Saizensen have given us.
Koihime Enbu RyoRaiRa is a solid fighter all things considered, but still a bit lacking in some departments. The art style and design of characters are a bit generic and uninspired. The stages feel just a bit empty. And the lack of modes is disappointing. Regardless of faults, the gameplay is fun and responsive. Fatal Counters add some zest to how the game plays. Characters bring their own spice and flavoring to the table. Plus, the music is nice and sets the tone for exciting matches.