The action RPG combat is enjoyable, if not outstanding, and the world and storytelling are really engrossing.
The writing isn’t going to win too many awards, and I could’ve done without the unnecessary anachronisms, yet there was still some magic to be found in my journey through the Deepwood.
Dusk Diver inevitably invites comparisons to both Persona and Yakuza. Yet this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as while it doesn’t have the thematic aspirations of the former or the writing and attention to detail of the latter, the decent combat and low-key charm make it an overall pleasant experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome.
On one hand, the game’s narrative and characters are engaging enough. On the other, the actual RPG elements are hindered by a battle system that, while having some neat ideas, doesn’t really come together.
There are still enough lingering issues with Skyward Sword HD that keep it from being in the same league as the series’ best installments.
While this latest installment has a compelling story worth experiencing, the game is riddled with technical issues that make it difficult to recommend.
Woblyware’s Devious Dungeon 2 provides a similar experience by keeping the randomly-generated levels while nixing the permadeath element. While the game is mildly enjoyable in short bursts, it never really rises above that.
While Oninaki had its fair share of ideas that could have potentially made it a gem, it is ultimately undone by weak storytelling that doesn’t do its heavy subject matter justice and combat that is enjoyable at times yet held back by design flaws that hinder the experience.
Ravenlok is incredibly endearing on the surface with its charming visual style and vibe. It’s just a shame that the underlying game never completely lives up to that charm factor. With combat that ends up tiresome and an underwhelming story, there’s always a feeling that the game is missing something.
Combining tactical RPGs and soccer is a good idea that could be further developed and improved upon, but Ganbare! Super Strikers really misses the mark in execution.
It does have a few interesting ideas under the hood, but the end result ends up being pretty lacking across the board.