Jason Rodriguez's Reviews
With a combination of multiple features and mechanics from different genres, as well as a setting that's steeped in mystery, Chernobylite attempts to be the jack-of-all-trades. Unfortunately, a mediocre combat system, repetitive mission structure, and dull gameplay loop lead to questionable results.
Humankind is ambitious in size, scale, and scope, allowing you to try out multiple combinations of cultures as you progress through various eras. However, it's also hampered by limitations in certain mechanics and systems that don't mesh well with the overall gameplay.
Far Cry 6 Vaas: Insanity provides a deeper and more nuanced look at a troubled character. Unfortunately, it has a fairly restrictive rogue-lite system if you're pressed for time. Worse, there's not a lot to look forward to after your initial clear.
WWE 2K22 does have some notable problems, such as modes that feel lacking or tacked on. Thankfully, it manages to excel in other departments, including visuals, controls, and performance. Although its predecessors set a very low bar, WWE 2K22 still cleared it and exceeded expectations.
Sniper Elite 5 reuses a tried-and-tested formula that has made the franchise a hit. Unfortunately, that familiarity can wear thin as you continue to progress. Still, some multiplayer modes might keep you engaged.
The Quarry is still filled to the brim with thrills, tough choices, and brutal deaths. Unfortunately, it still suffers from the same pitfalls that have plagued past titles. It's worsened by poorly written character relationships and a rather unsatisfying ending.
Cult of the Lamb relies on its demented humor and zany ideas that add charm. Sadly, some mechanics are either too streamlined or troublesome. You're bound to enjoy it for several hours until it becomes repetitive to a fault.
While there are some notable flaws and shortcomings, Asterigos: Curse of the Stars does manage to entertain and provide the necessary thrills.
Space Hulk: Tactics offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of the board game, however, several issues prevent it from reaching the light of the Astronomican.
A constrained experience compared to what This War of Mine usually offers. The Last Broadcast tries to pull at the heartstrings, but you're mostly playing as Esma crafting or exploring, while your husband idly waits for something to happen.
MegaCorp is a decent inclusion to Paradox Interactive's spacefaring strategy sim. Sadly, it can be overshadowed by what the free update already provides to the core Stellaris experience.
Delightful, fun, quirky -- Book of Demons keeps you entertained as it provides a unique take on what Diablo and the ARPG genre provides. Unfortunately, it also becomes repetitive and aimless towards the end.
Dead or Alive 6 uses reliable mechanics while adding new twists to freshen up the gameplay. Combat is fluid, fun, and exciting, yet, overall, it's not without glaring flaws.
Anno 1800 is a return to Blue Byte and Ubisoft's long-running city-building franchise. Sadly, a number of flaws prove to be detrimental to an enjoyable voyage.
A treat for fans of H. P. Lovecraft's works, mystifying settings, and followers of the Cthulhu Mythos. Unfortunately, its weaker combat and exploration mechanics remain asleep at the bottom of the ocean.
Civilization VI: Gathering Storm has new leaders, wonders, and mechanics to freshen up your experience. Unfortunately, some of these features occur fairly late, or are non-factors in your playthroughs.
Hordes of enemies, hundreds of items, and numerous dungeons aren't enough to prevent Warhammer Quest 2: The End Times from becoming all too repetitive after only a few hours of play.
Vambrace: Cold Soul will surely keep you entertained and engaged if you prefer roguelike games. Unfortunately, bland combat, interface and info issues, along with some save file problems can hamper your enjoyment.
Total War: Three Kingdoms - Eight Princes feels familiar, although, sadly, also a repeat of what you've already gone through in the past. While you can choose from eight princes, your overall experience (especially if you've put in hundreds of hours into the base game) would be more like a solid "7" instead.
With loads of content, amazing core gameplay mechanics, and unrivaled presentation, it keeps you engaged whether you're playing casually or competitively.