Kyle Bell
Even if it can be frustrating at times, the challenge feels like it gets paid off when you ultimately clear a stage. It is satisfying. The gameplay isn’t the only satisfying part, either. The graphics, music, and sound effects are wonderful throwbacks, making for a well-rounded indie game.
As a soft reboot, Infinity Ward kept the better aspects of Call of Duty (i.e. tight controls, high production value, loads of content) and smoothed out some of its blemishes (i.e. overly simplistic storytelling and an over-reliance on extreme drama). It’s a solid game that mixes things up a little bit but not too radically.
Gunlord X both looks and plays great. The 2D side-scrolling levels are mixed well with run ‘n gun gameplay, open-world stage design, varied enemies, and fun boss battles.
Whether you are stealing vegetables from a garden, turning on a hose and getting a person wet, or scaring a kid in order to steal his glasses, it’s all done in a way that is playful and innocent. It’s a game meant to elicit joy and laughter, and it does an admirable job. I just wish it was longer.
Ministry of Broadcast is a fascinating intersection of politics and psychology. It’s also an interesting mix of several video game genres: narrative-driven adventure, classic platformer, and puzzle game.
It’s polished. It has interesting gameplay mechanics. And it is priced right. What’s not to like?
Carrion is one of the best indie games released in 2020 so far. The premise – playing as a monster trying to escape a lab instead of as a human trying to contain an outbreak – is unique. I highly recommend checking it out.
Call of the Sea is easily one of the best Xbox Series X launch titles. It's a short adventure with clever puzzles and a heartwarming love story.
Tetris Effect Connected is a fun and fresh take on the classic franchise.
Harry Potter: Puzzles & Spells is one of the best free-to-play casual puzzle games on the market.
Super Mario 3D World is the game that the Wii U needed at launch.
This is close to a must-play for fans of rally racing games. However, it's not much different from WRC 9 and doesn't look next-gen.
Let’s get this out of the way: Spirit Hunter NG is not for everyone. In fact, it probably only fills a small niche in the horror video game market.
Whether you are looking for a casual game to play on your own or if you want something family-friendly to play with kids, Hidden Through Time is a pretty solid choice.
Minecraft Dungeons is a good entry-level dungeon crawler. Hardcore gamers might find it too simple.
The surprisingly compelling storyline and interesting puzzles keep you powering through, even as the dialogue drags on at times. Plus, the pixel art style and retro-inspired music give the game real charm. Considering the budget price, it’s well worth checking out.
Whether you're looking for a chill, non-violent ocean adventure or an educational product for kids, Beyond Blue does both surprisingly well. Just don't expect an action-packed experience.
Far Cry 6 is sure to please long-time series veterans and newcomers alike. It just doesn't break any new ground.
Marsupilami: Hoobadventure is a fun platformer that draws inspiration from classics like Crash Bandicoot and Donkey Kong Country.
Wonder Boy Collection is a surprisingly decent collection of classic games from a franchise that most people in the West probably have not played. It is missing Wonder Boy III: Monster Lair and Wonder Boy III: The Dragon’s Trap, but there’s enough variety here to keep you entertained for a while.