The battle system is very intuitive and keeps gameplay from becoming too repetitive. The few issues like the constant loading screens and lack of autosave may frustrate players as it's a very long game. However these aren't deal breakers as Cris Tales is a wonderfully crafted game that strives to give the player a unique experience.
Kazuya is an intriguing addition to the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate roster, due to the fact that his lacklustre movement makes him somewhat limited. He may have the biggest move list in the game but players will have to be creative in getting them to land. His depth will create some very interesting strategies and having the ability to combine several attacks adds to his close-combat ferocity. He's not an instant pick-up-and-play character, but players who master his combos will cause some serious damage.
This may please fans of the series but other than the overhaul in graphics I feel it plays too much like its predecessors. That being said, this is still a great starting point for those wanting to experience the Disgaea franchise or those looking for a solid tactical JRPG.
Scarlet Nexus is all about its combat which Bandai Namco have crafted very well, the sheer level of depth poured into it is amazing. The story will please anime fans, but it's not the most original tale, however, the writing during the character interactions is always entertaining and helps players to engage with each character. Bandai Namco has an excellent new series under their belt that really redefines the genre, especially with its stellar combat mechanics.
Legend of Mana Remaster is a great game that goes against the traditional forms of storytelling to create a unique adventure. With the monster taming and variety within the Land Make system, completing this game is a colossal feat and will require a couple of playthroughs to see everything. The addition of two-player modes makes this a must-have for JRPGs fans and newcomers alike.
Mario Golf: Super Rush is everything you could expect from a Nintendo sports game, with flashy graphics and competitive gameplay. I really enjoyed my time with the game and was deeply impressed with the nice amount of depth built into the Golf Adventure mode.
There really wasn't a dull moment in this game with each adrenaline-packed level sending chills down my spine. There may prove to be a little too much chaos at times making it hard to ascertain what's actually happening but that's an oversight. My main issue is the length of the game which was bittersweet but left me wanting more. Mighty Goose's punchy pixel visuals matched with its marvellous action makes it one of the best indie games out at the moment.
The Ninja Gaiden game was always a joy to play and this time around is no different. Even though there haven't been many changes to the overall experience, having all three games and DLC rolled into one is a sheer joy. Players who missed this series should definitely pick this up as it's one of the best games in the hack and slash genre. The omission of the online co-op will displease hardcore fans however I think this can be easily overlooked as being able to have all three games on a portable console is the winning factor here.
Jin Conception is a great concept but the initial gameplay may scare gamers off. Nonetheless, players who stick to it will be rewarded with a long adventure that spans around 20 hours to complete. There are some very nice ideas presented here but not all of them hit the mark, with a few bugs that also hindered my experience. However, for all its flaws Jin Conception isn't a bad game, with the visuals and music being great throughout with some of the game's mechanics improving as you progress.
New Pokemon Snap is worth its twenty-two years wait. Developers kept what made the original game great but have added extra layers that have greatly improve the experience. The repetitive nature of the game may not be for everyone, with some finding it a slog to complete the game. However, I feel there is enough variation and depth here to warrant its lengthy play. New Pokemon Snap is a great addition to the Nintendo Switch that combines the warm nostalgia of the N64 classic while offering what all good sequels should, a compelling experience for fans and newcomers alike.
The Mysterious Trilogy Deluxe Pack is great for original fans and newcomers, all the added DLC and new features really improve the overall experience in each of the games. They all have something different to offer, that will satisfy different types of players. Like previous Atelier games the synthesising system is very daunting and can be confusing for newcomers. The game does try to explain the system but I feel it needs a much more detailed tutorial for players to understand all the ins and outs. But players shouldn't give the games a miss as they are great JRPGs to add to your collections.
Smelter is a fun action packed game with plenty of depth to keep players engaged for a while. The combat system is intuitive and works a charm with the level design actually presenting a challenge rather than just being superficial. However I do wish the developers focused more on these parts of the game and minimise the real time strategy sections which felt like drawn out mini games. Saying that Smelter is a well devised indie game filled with witty dialogue and stellar action to match.
Narita Boy is definitely one of the best looking indie platformers I've ever seen with it's unique art style and captivating music. It's neo-retro style mixed with religious themes make it unlike anything that's on the market today. The emphasis on combat shows with its well worked mechanics and engaging system. However Narita Boy does leave you wanting more from its exploration and platforming parts. But I did enjoy my time with Narita Boy and it's definitely one to pick up.
Monster Hunter Rise is an amazing game and probably one of the best titles on the Nintendo Switch. Veterans of the series may feel there is more emphasis on the action elements of the game compared to previous entries, but I feel that the game does well to balance the RPG elements with the action. The few other tweaks made to Monster Hunter Rise are fully welcomed as they don't take away what made previous titles great making it one of the best games in the series.
Bravely Default II to its core is what fans should expect from a well devised JRPG, with the depth of customisation and a stellar battle system combining for an enthralling experience. Only to be matched by its engaging script and blissful music making this a must have for Nintendo Switch owners. Saying that newcomers to the series or JRPGs in general may find Bravely Default II a bit too difficult and demanding, especially with the bosses dishing out defeats left, right and centre.
Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy is a great early entry for 2021 and an unmissable gem for JRPG fans.
Sephiroth does play like other swordsmen in the game, but his long-range and explosive projectiles will make him stand out. He does have a few drawbacks that can make him less desirable like his charged attacks that can leave him wide open or his uninspiring grabs that lack range. Saying that Sephiroth's shortcomings are meagre compared to what makes him great. The One-Winged Angel is a great addition to the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate roster with enough depth to become a deadly force.
Sam & Max Save the World Remastered is a great revival for the franchise and Skunkape Games have done an amazing job on implementing the much-needed updates without losing any of the original charm. Die-hard fans will welcome all the obvious and subtle changes that have been made and releasing a new version on the Switch, was definitely a great choice to attract a new generation of fans. Some people may find the humour is slightly dated and inappropriate, however I feel Steve Purcell's stellar writing still makes me chuckle after all these years.
Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is a breath of fresh air that shouldn't be overlooked. It's hard to believe that a game with this much detail and depth is from just two developers. The team at Edelweiss have created such a unique game with amazing production and polished gameplay. There are a few little features like enemy repetition and lacklustre level layouts at times that could be improved. However I think Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin is definitely one of 2020's exceptional releases.
Pumpkin Jack is a pleasant surprise just in time for Halloween, the overall design is amazing considering it comes from a single developer. The six levels offer enough variety and challenge as to not get repetitive and as this will take about 5-6 hours to complete on the first run players will come back to get all the hidden items for extra skins. However, the gameplay feels slightly dated, visually the quality really drops in handheld mode if playing on the Switch and the camera needs to be a bit more reactive especially as the platforming requires precision at a fast pace.