The story is meant to be controversial, pulling on the heartstrings of the player to tell a story of why war today is so much more convoluted than it used to be. In the story, many characters go through challenging moments that make the player ask whether they can handle making the hard decisions. While the story gets dark with instances of torture and terrorist attacks, the game feels like it was scared to go all the way, holding back when situations should have pushed for more. Although the story has tropes and moments of gamification, the plot is still incredibly relevant and thought-provoking. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare may be the best in the series.
Katana ZERO is far better than what should be expected of an action-platformer. The gameplay is incredibly rewarding and challenging in all the best ways, and the combat never ceases to portray the power the player has. As the main character fights for what he is told to do and to solve the lingering questions, the game does an amazing job of showing the folly of the character and even growth he goes through. Between the combination of story and gameplay, as well as a multitude of features unique in the genre, Katana ZERO stands above all others.
MOTHERGUNSHIP has done well to keep the fun bullet hell action that Tower of Guns offered while feeling like a different experience, giving players a game that stands on its own merits. The humor that has been introduced to the game is better delivered than its predecessor, and the gunplay is frantic and tricky with many options allowing players to find their preferred way to play. Even though the level design and secrets are not up to par, the levels are fun to explore and battle in, with a wide range of styles resulting in fundamentally different situations throughout. The game is great to sit down for a few hours and fight alien robots or, alternatively, to pick up and play a dungeon or two to kill time. All in all, MOTHERGUNSHIP has great combat and offers an experience most games have yet to provide.
Extinction has a lot of potential to be more than it is. While the title is worth playing, it could strive for better. The lack of guidance in the beginning and the learning curve can be tough for new players to acclimatise to. However, after a few hours of learning, some of the frustration drops away, and the game becomes more fun because the player starts honing their skills. Trying to take down the Ravenii as quickly as possible to save the city before rushing to the next giant can be stressful, but it is an enjoyable kind of stress. Similarly, facing off against two or more Ravenii can be a fun challenge, forcing different strategies, such as attacking the more weakly armored first or severing a leg so the player can focus their attention on the other ogre. The problems that hold Extinction back may be a make-it-or-break-it point for some players. The inconsistency in using the whip can bring exasperation, and the lack of varied game modes can become boring. Furthermore, the predominantly single-button combat system is lackluster because far greater complexity can easily be envisioned for a game of this type. Having more ways to perform sweeping attacks for crowd control or stronger direct attacks might make the physical act of play more enjoyable. With more varied game modes, a more in-depth combat system, and redesigned traversal mechanics, Extinction could stand out, but, in its current state, it simply exists.
Mulaka feels generic in its gameplay, but the intriguing themes of the Tarahumara folklore help the title to become more than just another action-platformer. The lackluster combat, level design, jarring animations, and basic plot line may not be worth the price of entry, yet Mulaka is a immensely engrossing adventure. Learning about a tribe of people that most have never heard of and playing a game about indigenous people is rare. Playing through Mulaka divulges a lot about the Tarahumara mythology and customs. Mulaka is best played to learn about the culture and origin stories of the Tarahumara people, who go down in legend as being some of the most athletic humans to ever grace the face of the planet.