Dan Rizzo's Reviews
For fans who are looking for an amazing RPG experience, and for Shin Megami Fans who have yet to dive into the world of Fire Emblem, this is an amazing entry point to familiarise yourself with it’s lore. While it’s completely different from what is expected from a standard Fire Emblem, it is what we’ve come to expect from ATLUS and their incredible creativity. Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is an essential for any JRPG lovers, and Nintendo Switch owners.
While we sat there for many an hour watching Goku yell and scream over an exaggerated amount of episodes to finally hit Super Saiyan on Frieza’s pale and purple behind, being able to physically land the final blow on evil emperor makes everything come full circle in what I consider to be the ultimate nostalgic set piece of any fan of this incredible franchise. Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, is a must have and must play experience for fans of this generous and enthralling generational franchise.
Does it wrap everything up nicely, plot wise? No, it doesn’t. That’s what leaves me befuddled on why the title is so good. Does it deserve an accolade and be recognised amongst the best presented in 2019? Hell yes. It most certainly deserves to be in the same conversation as anything labeled “Game of the Year”, and I for one will argue for it. It’s different, It’s unique, it’s incredible. Death Stranding is one of the best, and unmissable video games of this generation.
The franchise certainly has a bright future, and a new home on the Nintendo Switch, remembering that it’s initial release was for the Nintendo3DS only excites me further to see what Level-5 could potentially develop for the hybrid handheld-home console. We could possibly see a revamp and brand new engine laid upon us for future installments, and that on it’s own certainly thrills me. The Professor Layton franchise will forever be one of the best puzzle-adventure franchises, and I certainly cannot recommend Layton’s Mystery Journey enough.
It’s a little-big adventure at heart, that relies on it’s impeccable writing, lovable cast of characters, it’s beautiful design, and incredible gameplay that truly revolutionised combat tactics in the JPRG genre. The Alliance Alive HD Remastered is a welcome addition, to the expanding Nintendo Switch Library, and will still have JRPG lovers talking about it’s originality and incredible detail for years to come.
AIBA’s shining personality really helps in times of ominous footing. Boss’ guidance really sets a pace between her relationship with Date, and making sure he remember’s why he’s an officer in the first place. I love everything about AI: The Somnium Files. It’s story, it’s presentation, it’s sound design, and it’s characters. Spike Chunsoft and Numskull Games truly have themselves a Game of the Year contender on their hands.
It’s interpretation of the Souls category relies on it’s established past, but brings in elements from many other Role-Playing titles, but conveys an uncommon commitment. From its amazing level and dungeon design, its vast and beautiful world, its insane cast of characters, and addictive gameplay, Code Vein will no doubt be remembered as one of 2019’s best.
It’s inspired gamer’s and developers for generations, and Super Mario Maker 2 will inspire many young gamers for many years to come. The tools given here to a younger generation of gamers will only inspire a new pool of developers in the coming years. Think, Design, and show it to the world. Super Mario Maker 2, shows the industry how groundbreaking the Mario franchise is, and forever will be.
It’s title’s like this that will definitely make you miss the Nintendo3DS as a platform, but know that you will treasure your experiences on the handheld for years to come. Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth is a must own for all JPRG lovers, handheld gamers, and Persona fans alike.
A Plague Tale: Innocence, certainly delivers. An astounding cinematic experience, with gameplay that will have you hooked for hours. A Plague Tale: Innocence, is definitely an early contender for Game of the Year.
It’s fantastic for old lovers and newcomers to the franchise, and a great entry point to anyone looking for a quick fighting game fix, but would also love to experience the immerse genre of fighting games. The most accessible, and also, the most extensive fighter out right now. Mortal Kombat invites all gamers out there to experience what is great in the fighting genre, and it’s latest entry is definitely proof of it. Mortal Kombat 11 is definitely the best fighting game I have ever played.
Of course, for those who have experienced the trilogy on it’s original platform, you aren’t necessarily getting anything new here, however, if you are a hardcore fan of the series, you’re definitely getting a well deserved upgrade. The ability to play all three titles on your TV, or even with upgraded graphics on the Nintendo Switch, makes this the perfect replacement.
I speak for myself here when I say that I loved Ninja Theory’s ideal reboot to the franchise with DmC: Devil May Cry, but has nothing on the series original arc. It’s low risk-high reward accessibility that allows any gamer, casual to hardcore, to easily pick up and play. Fast paced, violence, with blood pumping action, an amazing storyline that ties up loose ends from previous entries, and amazing callbacks, that will have any hardcore DMC fan devilishly grinning from ear to ear.
It’s a simple, elegant, effective, beautifully crafted, artistic piece, that I will personally cherish in my gaming collection, and would be happy to go back and experience again in the future. Just like any well written story. Well done Campo Santo, Well done.
Being able to talk to, and discuss an old school game to the younger generation, and have that be something that’s new for them, is simply awesome. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (3D), may not be the typical, nor standard franchise story we see, but will always stand the test of time, and be memorable for being the most unique title, of it’s series.
If there’s one thing to say about this title, it’s that Mario Kart 8 is the savior that the Wii U desperately needed. We’ve seen many key franchises release titles over the past year, but nothing comes close the amazing detail that Mario Kart 8 gives. From the characters, to the track, the full Nintendo experience is here, and it is glorious. Well done, Nintendo.
All we know is that from Gameplay to Graphics, inFamous: Second Son is simply outstanding. The only thing for the series to improve on would be a little better writing for it’s next entry, and Sucker Punch are more than capable.
While Team Ninja leave us wanting more from their unique Souls series, they are an inspiring reminder to all gamers everywhere of how innovative the Kyoto based, development company are, and how it will forever be associated with this franchise. Nioh 2 forges a legacy that will ultimately set a benchmark for future Souls-like titles, in hopes to eventually lead us into a new generation of vigorous, yet compelling video games.
With an established franchise that has had its fair share of mixed emotions in prior entries, it’s wonderful to see it reach new heights, and garner a wider appeal amongst gamers. Animal Crossing New Horizons is no doubt, an essential staple to the growing Nintendo Switch library, and will be marked as such a memorable social tool in a time that humanity, truly needed it.
Its accessibility is consistent, and makes for a smooth and flawless experience. It’s fun and engaging to play, and would be a great entry point for those looking to experience a JPRG, on a smaller scale. Trials of Mana remains legenadary through its 2020 remake.