David Poole's Reviews
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition may not be a “new” game, but it’s definitely the best way to experience this story. Remaster or not, the quality-of-life changes and new epilogue make it a much more enjoyable time. While the game may take a few visual hits in portable mode, it’s still playable and helps to grind out that extra experience. With an incredible world to explore and several great characters, there’s no better time to jump into Xenoblade Chronicles.
It lets players give in to their destructive tendencies, piling on dry humor in the most absurdly entertaining ways. Maneater is a rare breed indeed, and it’s well worth spending time with.
When it comes down to it, SNK Gals’ Fighters is a pretty fun fighter from an interesting time. It manages to be impressive both in animation and in it’s deep fighting options. The original release might not have lived up to it’s full potential, but with the Switch, it’s given a second life.
Sega found a great way to bring Sakura Wars back into the world, and it deserves to stay. If you like anime, this one deserves to be on your radar.
While Final Fantasy VII Remake isn’t a direct translation of the original, it does an astounding job recreating the experience from the ground up. The music, the characters, and the attention to detail just sucks you into Midgar like never before. Add on the additional story elements and fantastic combat, and you have a real winner here.
As long as Capcom addresses fan feedback, this could be a game that will have people playing for a long time. Being a part of the Resident Evil 3 package makes it even sweeter. If you’re a fan of games like Dead by Daylight or Friday the 13th: The Game, then this is worth checking out.
Even though it’s definitely a different experience from RE2, Resident Evil 3 feels like a healthy mix of old and new. While it shifts focus from horror to action, it still delivers a short but sweet experience.
Playing The Foundation gives me a lot of hope for the next expansion. If the Alan Wake connection is really going grow deeper, then it’s something I really look forward to. Hopefully I can keep my expectations in check, but I’m confident that Remedy can handle this. The Foundation makes that clear to me, and if the next expansion is even remotely as good as this one, fans have a lot to look forward to. This is an awesome expansion for anyone that enjoyed the original game, and it’s well worth checking out.
While it’s definitely a casual anime arena fighter, there are definitely worse examples. The game has a certain flow to the fights that feels really good to play. Despite some performance issues and overly simple gameplay, it still offers some fun. If you enjoyed the first one, then chances are you’ll also enjoy this iteration as well.
If you’re looking for a long JRPG experience to satisfy a gaming itch, especially during times of isolation, Persona 5 Royal is the definitive version of an amazing experience. Unleash your rebellious spirit, form your bonds, and take the hearts of the unjust. Your calling awaits.
Owlchemy Labs did a great job bringing their Job Simulator formula to the Rick and Morty universe. While it’s a short experience, there’s plenty of things to experiment with, and tons of secrets to discover. The amount of interactive objects is commendable and fans of the series should love to see all the references. Rick and Morty: Virtual Rick-ality is worth picking up for your VR headset if you’re simply a fan of the series looking for something to hold you over in the wait for more episodes.
Overall, the Shadow of Doom DLC is a worthy addition to the game, rounding out the ultimate alliance nicely. The story is entertaining enough to engage with and the additional characters bring a lot to the table. While there aren’t significant changes to the formula, it truly makes the game feel like the “ultimate” Marvel Ultimate Alliance game. A truly fantastic addition to an already mighty game.
When all is said and done, Bleeding Edge does feel like a side project for the developer. While it does feel that way, there are some extremely redeeming qualities of it. The aesthetically pleasing style and the unique personality of the characters shine through the gameplay. Even though content is a little light, the game is half the price of a usual game, and it’s free on Xbox Game Pass. For what is available, the game is a lot of fun, and despite the slow progression, there’s always that feeling of “one more game” lingering.
If the controls could be adjusted to be more forgiving with the timing, Ski Jumping Pro VR would be exactly what it needs to be. Unfortunately, given the circumstances, you may be better off forgetting the controls and simply watch a VR ski jump video. This game could’ve made for an excellent experience, but unfortunately, it’s simply too difficult to recommend as it is.
If you’re a fan of the series, it might be cool to give it a shot. Otherwise, if you’re simply looking for something new to play on your VR headset, it may be wise to avoid taking a trip to the good doctor.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a truly gorgeous spectacle of a platformer. The level design is fantastic and the variety in the gameplay keeps things fresh and invigorating. Gareth Coker’s music sets the mood perfectly, making the experience much more emotional and endearing. The combat keeps things challenging and allows for plenty of experimenting, and really feels like a progression to the Ori formula. Overall, this sequel reaches the bar the original game set, and climbs even further to make an incredible journey.
While it may not be a long experience, with a story lasting roughly a half an hour, Space Channel 5 VR: Kinda Funky News Flash! is still a groovin’ good time. The music and dancing is addictive fun, and it really challenges players to keep track of the rhythm. As far as VR games go, it’s one of the better games I’ve played, working well in both concept and function.
Overall, I came in knowing very little about Granblue Fantasy, and I came out not knowing much more. Despite this, Granblue Fantasy Versus is a unique and competent fighter.
Fans of the original may love to stroll down memory lane again. You might not show up for the story, but you’ll at least stay for the gameplay. The high-octane feel of the ARS is still a blast to enjoy and it makes for a great part of the 10th anniversary bundle with Bayonetta.
When it comes down to it, Re Mind is here to explain the ending further, and even tease more of what’s to come. It was clearly added to give the player more challenge, and it definitely succeeds in that. Unfortunately, at the price point of $29.99, it doesn’t feel like it’s worth it.