James Luff


759 games reviewed
75.0% of games recommended
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Liked-a-lot - Sigma Star Saga DX
Apr 9, 2026

Sigma Star Saga DX is a fascinating mix of genres that still feels inventive years after its original release. The combination of top-down exploration and space shooter combat creates a rhythm that keeps the game feeling fresh from start to finish. Add in the weapon customisation system, memorable pixel art, and a story full of twists, and you have a game that stands out even today. The new release doesn’t add a huge amount of extra material, but the main adventure is more than strong enough to carry the experience. If you missed this title during its Game Boy Advance days, now is a great time to finally see what makes Sigma Star Saga such a memorable oddball in WayForward’s catalogue.

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Apr 9, 2026

Eko and the Bewitched Lands is a straightforward roguelike action game with a pleasant fantasy setting and simple pick-up-and-play gameplay. It doesn’t bring many new ideas to the genre, and its balancing and technical issues hold it back from reaching its full potential. With a bit more depth in its upgrade systems and some tweaks to difficulty, it could have become something much stronger. Even so, there’s still a certain appeal here. The setting is enjoyable, the gameplay loop is easy to understand, and sometimes that familiarity can be exactly what players are looking for. It may not stand at the top of the roguelike genre, but if you’re after a simple action adventure to dip into now and then, Eko and the Bewitched Lands can still offer a few entertaining evenings, especially if you catch it during a sale.

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Liked-a-lot - ROGOLF
Apr 3, 2026

Rogolf is a creative twist on the roguelike formula that swaps swords and action for mini golf clubs and tricky courses. The core gameplay is easy to understand, the progression system keeps things interesting, and the quick run structure makes it great for short play sessions. It’s the sort of game you can jump into for a few minutes and end up staying longer than planned. The visuals are fairly plain, and the shot power can feel a little strong at times, but those issues don’t stop the game from being enjoyable. If you like roguelikes and don’t mind trying something a little different from the usual action-focused approach, Rogolf is a fun little experiment that’s well worth a look. It’s certainly the most fun I’ve had in an office.

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Liked-a-lot - Super Meat Boy 3D
Apr 2, 2026

Super Meat Boy 3D is a pleasant surprise. Translating this famously brutal platformer into 3D could have gone badly, but the developers have done an impressive job keeping the tight controls and addictive gameplay intact. It’s still brutally difficult, still packed with hazards, and still built around repeated failure. That means it won’t be for everyone. But if you enjoy precision platformers and don’t mind dying dozens of times while learning a level, there’s a lot of fun to be found here. For the right audience, Meat Boy’s leap into 3D is a surprisingly successful one.

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Apr 2, 2026

Go! Go! Mister Chickums is a delightful arcade platformer that understands exactly what makes this style of game enjoyable. The egg-throwing mechanic is clever, the levels are quick and satisfying to play, and the whole experience captures that addictive “just one more go” feeling that great arcade games thrive on. It’s easy to jump into for a few minutes, but it’s also the sort of game you can happily sit with for longer sessions while chasing better scores and discovering its secrets. The boss fights might be a little too gentle, but the core gameplay is strong enough that it barely takes away from the overall experience. If you enjoy arcade platformers, retro-inspired games, or simply want something fun to dip into between longer gaming sessions, Go! Go! Mister Chickums is well worth checking out.

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Mind-blown - Aether & Iron
Apr 1, 2026

Despite a few slightly complicated systems, Aether & Iron left a really positive impression on me. The world-building is excellent, the characters are engaging, and the combination of noir storytelling with sci-fi elements makes the setting stand out. The dice-based dialogue adds unpredictability to conversations, while the turn-based car combat offers something genuinely different from most RPGs. It’s definitely a dialogue-heavy experience, so players looking for constant action might not connect with it. But if you enjoy story-driven RPGs and like the idea of something a bit unusual, there’s a lot here to appreciate. With its distinctive setting, strong writing, and creative mechanics, Aether & Iron feels like an RPG that isn’t afraid to try its own ideas, and for the most part, it succeeds as well as makes me want to shop for a fine waistcoat and hat.

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Liked-a-lot - Etrange Overlord
Mar 27, 2026

Etrange Overlord turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Beneath its unusual story lies a fast and accessible action RPG that’s easy to enjoy in short bursts. The combat is simple but entertaining, the rotating lane mechanic adds a bit of variety, and the cast of characters gives you plenty of options when building your party. The story can occasionally run longer than necessary, but it also provides many of the game’s funniest moments thanks to Étrange’s confident personality. If you enjoy anime-style RPGs and don’t mind a narrative that takes centre stage, Etrange Overlord is well worth a look. It’s a slightly odd adventure, but that’s very much part of its appeal.

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Mind-blown - Rotwood
Mar 20, 2026

Rotwood is a very enjoyable action game that keeps things focused and approachable. Its bite-sized hunts, smooth combat and steady progression make it easy to jump into, whether you’re playing for ten minutes or an entire evening. The variety of weapons, upgrades and co-op options gives the experience plenty of staying power, while the art style and monster designs add personality to every run. Whether you prefer playing solo or teaming up with friends, Rotwood offers a fun and flexible adventure that’s well worth checking out. I had an absolute blast playing it, and hopefully you will too

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Mar 13, 2026

Minishoot’ Adventures manages to combine two genres in a way that feels natural and engaging. By blending open exploration with shmup-style twin-stick shooting, it offers something that stands apart from the usual action-adventure formula. The flexible upgrade system, accessible difficulty options and rewarding sense of discovery make it easy to recommend to a wide audience. Whether you enjoy skilful shooters or simply want a relaxed adventure to explore at your own pace, there’s plenty here to love. It’s creative, energetic and consistently fun to return to. By the time I finished my time with it, I was already thinking about jumping back in for another flight. More good news if you buy the Switch version, the upgrade to Switch 2 is free.

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The New Zealand Story: Untold Adventure is an interesting attempt to bring a retro platformer back to modern audiences. It retains the core idea of rescuing kiwis across challenging stages, complete with quirky weapons, flying vehicles and unusual boss fights. For players unfamiliar with the original, this remake may simply feel like a tricky but colourful platformer with an unusual premise. Longtime fans, however, may find themselves feeling a bit nostalgic for the original arcade version. While the remake captures the basic structure, it doesn’t always recreate the same spark that made the classic so memorable. That said, it’s clear the developers approached the project with genuine appreciation for the source material. With some additional polish, it could become a more enjoyable way to revisit Tiki’s adventure. For now, it’s a remake that may appeal to curious newcomers or dedicated retro fans, though the original game still remains a very special experience in its own right

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Liked - Mirage 7
Mar 8, 2026

Mirage 7 is the sort of adventure that reminds you of a different era of game design. It focuses on storytelling, exploration and puzzle solving rather than complex systems or endless upgrades. The combat can feel repetitive, and some technical rough spots appear here and there, but the game’s creativity and atmosphere help carry it through. The story, interesting world and enjoyable puzzles make it easy to stay invested in Nadira’s journey. It might not be a flawless experience, but it’s an engaging one. If you enjoy narrative-driven adventures with a focus on exploration and problem-solving, Mirage 7 is definitely worth a look.

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Liked-a-lot - Under the Island
Mar 7, 2026

Under The Island doesn’t try to tear up the rulebook. Instead, it takes a well-loved formula and adds just enough of its own personality to make it worth your time. The puzzles are enjoyable, the dungeons are thoughtfully built, and the island itself is a fun place to explore. It may lean heavily on that classic top-down adventure blueprint, but it delivers a solid, engaging experience with a few surprises tucked away. If you’re in the mood for a colourful quest with light humour and satisfying exploration, this is an easy recommendation.

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Liked-a-lot - Dobbel Dungeon
Feb 26, 2026

Dobbel Dungeon doesn’t try to overwhelm you with systems or complicated mechanics. It introduces its ideas gently, then builds on them as you go. What I liked most is how welcoming it feels. Tactical RPGs can sometimes feel like homework. This one feels inviting. You learn as you play, and before you know it, you’re thinking three turns ahead without even realising it. It’s engaging without being exhausting. And once it gets its hooks in, it’s surprisingly difficult to step away from. If you’ve been curious about grid-based RPGs but never quite taken the plunge, this is a great place to start. And if you already enjoy the genre, there’s enough depth here to keep you busy. I had a really good time with it. Simple as that.

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Feb 21, 2026

Fate’s Theater is a quiet surprise. It starts reserved, even slightly confusing, but grows richer the more you invest in it. Beneath its simple card clashes lies a clever balance of strategy, resource management, and storytelling. It won’t satisfy those looking for deep competitive complexity. But for players who enjoy thoughtful duels, dark fairy-tale humour, and discovering strange little narrative outcomes, there’s something quite special here. It’s gentle without being dull. Strategic without being stressful. And those tiny rhyming tales give it a personality. For a modestly priced indie experience, it absolutely earns a recommendation.

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Liked-a-lot - Demon Tides
Feb 21, 2026

Demon Tides feels like a confident step forward. It expands the scope, refines the controls, and delivers a more polished experience overall. The platforming is responsive, creative, and satisfying. Exploration feels great, exploring every corner of the world. While the story and humour won’t resonate equally with everyone, the gameplay carries the experience easily. And if you weren’t completely sold on Demon Turf, this sequel might be the one that clicks. There’s also a free demo available, which makes it easy to test the waters before committing. For fans of 3D collectable platformers, this is absolutely worth checking out. It’s energetic and clearly built by a team that understands how good movement should feel. I had a great time with it, and I suspect many others will too.

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Liked-a-lot - Ys X: Proud Nordics
Feb 20, 2026

Ys X: Proud Nordics is the most complete version of an already strong action RPG. The refined performance, expanded story and extra challenges make it the definitive way to experience Adol and Karja’s journey across Obelia Bay. If you’re new to Ys or skipped the original release, this is an easy recommendation. Fast combat, enjoyable exploration and a solid central duo carry the experience confidently. If you’re a returning veteran, your enjoyment will depend on how ready you are to relive the voyage. Either way, Falcom proves there’s still plenty of life in this long-running series.

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Liked-a-lot - Cairn
Feb 17, 2026

Cairn is not a casual climbing game. It’s methodical, demanding, and occasionally stubborn. It will test your patience. It will make you rethink your route. And yes, it may frustrate you. But it’s also thoughtful, distinctive, and deeply absorbing when you meet it on its terms. This is a game about preparation, persistence, and pushing upward even when progress feels slow. It quietly mirrors life in that way; big goals rarely come with smooth routes. It won’t be for everyone. Players looking for a cosy stroll may find it intense. But if you’re willing to approach it with patience and curiosity, Cairn offers something genuinely memorable. I came away from it challenged, occasionally exasperated, but ultimately impressed. And honestly? That summit feels earned.

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Liked-a-lot - In My Bubble
Feb 11, 2026

In My Bubble is a reminder that free-to-play doesn’t have to mean compromised. This is a thoughtful, well-constructed 3D platformer built around a creative mechanic and a welcoming tone. While some platforming elements can be a little awkward, the forgiving design and steady stream of ideas more than make up for it. It’s accessible for all ages, rewarding to explore, and generous with its content. Honestly, it wouldn’t feel out of place as a paid release, which makes its free price tag all the more impressive. If you enjoy 3D platformers and want something gentle, imaginative, and genuinely enjoyable, In My Bubble is absolutely worth your time.

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Liked-a-lot - Anthem#9
Feb 10, 2026

Anthem#9 is a confident debut that takes familiar ideas and reshapes them into something distinctive. Its blend of deck-building, gem matching, and roguelike progression feels thoughtful rather than gimmicky, and the moment-to-moment gameplay is consistently engaging. There’s a short learning curve, but once the systems fall into place, the game reveals a depth that rewards repeated runs and experimentation. Whether you’re drawn in by strategy, style, or the sheer satisfaction of well-timed combos, Anthem#9 offers something worth your time. If you enjoy roguelikes and want something that feels new and original to the genre, this is well worth checking out.

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Feb 10, 2026

Astro Party EX doesn’t promise endless progression systems or competitive depth, and it doesn’t try to be more than it needs to be. What it delivers is a lightweight, easy-to-access multiplayer experience that works best when shared with others in the same room. For a free-to-play game with no aggressive monetisation, it’s hard to be overly critical. There’s room for expansion, perhaps with AI bots or additional modes, but even as it stands, Astro Party EX succeeds at what it sets out to do. If you’re looking for a simple multiplayer game to fill a gap during a game night, this is well worth a download.

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