Motive's Dead Space Remake is a gloriously grotesque glow-up that embraces the original horror game's robust formula, and only a slight amount of jank keeps it from achieving perfection.
If you’re looking for a new Oddworld experience, then Soulstorm will likely scratch that itch. However, Soulstorm is far from being the 1997 sequel you might know and love. While a lot of what makes Oddworld wonderfully “odd” is still intact, Soulstorm’s experimental nature is almost a detriment. Nevertheless, being able to step into a new Oddworld experience in 2021 is something to behold. Soulstorm might be a little rough around the edges, but hopefully, the game serves as an experiment to determine the best direction for a brand new Oddworld quintology.
Battletoads could have survived by doing a lot less, yet Dlala has gone above and beyond what would have been required to grab the attention of hardcore fans. The result is a challenging, yet accessible, ‘90s inspired beat-em-up that doesn’t rely on nostalgia to be charming, fun and engaging. Sure, there’s some aspects of the game that feel a bit lacklustre or frustrating, but at its core, Battletoads is full of heart. This revival has put the toads back in the spotlight, giving them more of a chance to shine than ever before. Hell, I wouldn’t be surprised if Rash, Zitz, and Pimple end up with their own TV show.
Destroy All Humans serves as yet another example of how to recreate a beloved classic, without destroying what made it special. If you loved the original game, then everything that captured your originally his here and accounted for. Hopefully, this remake will mark a triumphant return for the series, which in turn would ensure that this weird little freak of a game can maintain its presence within game libraries for years to come. In any case, we welcome more Destroy All Humans.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom was a masterclass in how to handle a licenced game, so it comes as no surprise that Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated is a complete joy. In recreating this cartoon cult classic, THQ and Purple Lamp Studios have facilitated access to an important part of SpongeBob’s history to old fans and a new generation alike. It’s great to see interest in light-hearted platforming experiences make a comeback, especially when considering the market is overwhelmingly filled with adult experiences, much to the frustration of parents.
Huntdown stands as a neon-drenched monument on how to make a contemporary retro game. You might come for its highly stylised 16-bit aesthetic, but you’ll certainly stay for its authentic arcadey mechanics, amusing comedic overtones and unique boss battles. Despite being released long after its ancestors, Huntdown can stand tall within its genre, knowing that in reality, it probably holds more true to your nostalgic memories than what you actually played back in the day.
Jay and Silent Bob: Mall Brawl makes for a tremendous NES game, which might make it a great addition to your retro collection, but might come across as more of a novelty when played on modern hardware. Enjoying this game is a matter of context – if you’re playing on original NES hardware, then you’re likely going to be more forgiving of any inherited clunky mechanics. Regardless of how you play, there’s a lot of heart in this mall brawler, with lots on offer to enjoy for retro enthusiasts and Kevin Smith fans alike.
A gorgeous display of creative affection for a series limited by its original console confinement.
If you’re a fan of horror games, or narrative experiences, then Blair Witch is certainly worth a try. Allowing yourself to be immersed in the experience is key to this game's enjoyment, which perhaps also acts as a silver bullet for its replayability.
The soundtrack also makes a huge impression, again with each area having a different style of track. From creepy industrial house music to surf guitar riffs, you'll be doing a shoulder dance while you paint the town red.
The Division 2 has managed to elaborate on its established formula while addressing everything that held the first game back.
The Occupation might not be the first of its kind, yet it manages to provide a distinct experience that delivers on everything it promises. With completion only lasting a few hours, you’ll find yourself craving more, whilst not actually feeling like your time with the game was cut short.
Metro: Exodus manages to bring fans more of what makes the series great while expanding its potential beyond its original constraints.
Overall, Pikuniku makes for a joyful experience to be enjoyed by kids and adults alike, at least for the couple of hours that it lasts.
An aesthetically charming adventure with an important message, if you can tolerate the occasionally mundane game play.
Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy is a must play classic that acts as a great example on how to make a timeless title. Despite having a few quirks that remind us of its age, this Egyptian escapade is just as enjoyable as it was back in 2003, if not even more so on the Switch.