James Luff
Twilight Monk is an excellent adventure game with a compelling world, rewarding exploration, and a unique combat system. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the source material, it’s an enjoyable adventure-style action RPG that stands strong on its own. The game’s mix of 2D action, RPG elements, and exploration gives it a distinct feel, setting it apart from typical adventure games. Combat feels fresh, thanks to the Phantom Pillar’s versatility, and the leveling system encourages engagement without feeling grindy. However, the difficulty spikes may be a bit much for casual players. But if you’re looking for a challenging, rewarding action RPG, there’s no need to meditate on this; Twilight Monk is a great pick.
Kemono Heroes is a fantastic pick-up-and-play arcade action game. It delivers instant, gratifying fun whether playing alone or with friends. The tight combat, engaging platforming, and gorgeous presentation make it an absolute joy to experience. The game does feel a bit short, leaving you wanting more, but all the time spent playing it is undeniably enjoyable. If you’re a busy gamer or simply looking for a fast, satisfying action game, Kemono Heroes is well worth picking up.
Bubble Ghost Remake is a fantastic action-puzzle game that will appeal to players looking for something fresh and new. It takes a simple concept, blowing a bubble, and builds an entire experience around it, complete with puzzle-solving, precision movement, and even boss fights. The game’s charming art style, touching story, and rewarding challenge make it a great remake of a long-lost classic. That said, this is not a game for everyone. If you lack patience or get easily frustrated, the trial-and-error gameplay might not be for you. However, for those who enjoy precision-based challenges and overcoming tricky obstacles, Bubble Ghost Remake is an absolute delight. If you’re unsure, a free demo is available on Steam, and I highly recommend trying it out. As for me? I loved it.
Which Way Up: Galaxy Games is a fun and engaging party game that delivers exactly what it promises: a lighthearted multiplayer experience filled with creative, gravity-defying mini-games. The mechanics are easy to pick up, the mini-games are well-designed, and the overall presentation is colourful and inviting. However, the game is at its best when played with a full group of four players. If you plan to play solo or with just one other person, the experience doesn’t quite hold up, especially with the absence of AI opponents. If you have a group of friends or family members ready to jump in, Which Way Up: Galaxy Games is a great choice for a lively game night. It’s a simple but well-crafted party game that’s easy to enjoy and offers plenty of fast-paced fun. A free demo is available on Steam, so it’s worth giving it a try to see if it’s a good fit for you.
Ronny’s Climb is a short but sweet platformer that delivers a cosy and enjoyable experience. While it doesn’t introduce anything revolutionary to the genre, its smooth gameplay, charming art style, and heartwarming story make it a delightful game for players of all ages. The difficulty level makes it an especially good choice for families, younger gamers, or anyone looking for a relaxing adventure without the stress of a tough challenge. With a reasonable price point and a runtime of around three hours, it’s a great game for a casual evening of play. If you’re looking for a platformer that’s filled with charm and heart, Ronny’s Climb is definitely worth checking out.
Head Over Heels Deluxe is an odd but endearing experience, the kind of game that feels like an acquired taste but ultimately wins you over. Its unique characters and clever puzzles create an adventure that rewards patience and careful thinking. Playing it took me back to the golden days of gaming when creativity reigned supreme, and players were left to figure things out for themselves. That said, it’s not for everyone. Casual players may feel lost, and the game’s trial-and-error nature can be frustrating at times. But for fans of the original or anyone who loves retro-style puzzle-platformers, this is the definitive version of a classic.
Microtopia is a deep, highly detailed management sim that rewards careful planning and patience. Its unique premise, striking art style, and intricate automation mechanics make it a standout experience in the genre. However, its complexity and time requirements mean it won’t appeal to everyone. Casual players may find themselves lost in its depth, but those who enjoy in-depth strategy games and optimization challenges will likely find it incredibly rewarding. If you’re a fan of management sims and enjoy perfecting automated systems, Microtopia is well worth a try. A free prologue is available on Steam, allowing you to test the waters before committing to the full experience
Morkull Ragast’s Rage doesn’t bring a ton of new ideas to the table, but what it offers is a solid, well-crafted platforming adventure with a lot of personality. Morkull himself is a fantastic lead, carrying the game with his quirky humour and fourth-wall-breaking antics. The gameplay is tight and enjoyable, though combat can be hit-or-miss, and navigation issues may test your patience. The difficulty makes it best suited for experienced players, as the punishing soul-loss system and challenging encounters may frustrate more casual players. But if you’re up for a tough but rewarding platforming experience, Morkull Ragast’s Rage delivers a fun, chaotic ride through a beautifully animated, villainous adventure.
Overall, Jumper Jon is a fun, frantic, and charming twist on the adventure genre. While it doesn’t revolutionize things, its unique time-based mechanic keeps things fresh and engaging. The adorable visuals, fast-paced movement, and upbeat atmosphere make for an enjoyable experience, even if the 30-second limit sometimes feels like both a blessing and a curse. It would have been great to see the game take even more risks with its central gimmick, particularly in boss fights. However, as it stands, Jumper Jon is still a solid, entertaining adventure that’s worth checking ou, especially for players who enjoy a bit of frantic, time-based challenge.
In the end, Freddy Farmer didn’t fully click with me, but I still respect what it achieves. Its unique level design, creative enemy AI, and polished presentation are all commendable. However, the game is clearly aimed at a very specific audience: players who enjoy brutally difficult, unforgiving arcade challenges. If you’re the type of gamer who thrives on memorizing patterns, overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and chasing high scores, Freddy Farmer will likely be a rewarding experience. There’s a real sense of accomplishment in finally clearing a level after dozens of failed attempts. However, for more casual players or those who prefer games with at least some level of accessibility, the lack of a save system and punishing difficulty make it a tough recommendation. There’s fun to be had, but only if you’re willing to endure a steep learning curve and plenty of frustration. For the low asking price, it’s at least worth a shot for those curious about the challenge. But be warned, this is not a game that holds your hand. If you’re looking for a hardcore arcade experience, Freddy Farmer delivers. If not, you may want to pass.
Momodora: Moonlit Farewell sends the series off with a well-deserved celebration of everything that makes the franchise great. It doesn’t reinvent the action-adventure formula, but it delivers a highly polished and heartfelt experience that showcases the developer’s years of growth and refinement. For longtime fans, it’s a fitting farewell. For newcomers, it’s an excellent starting point that may just inspire you to go back and explore the rest of the series. Either way, Moonlit Farewell is a fantastic adventure, one crafted with passion, precision, and a deep love for the genre.
Shalnor: Silverwind Saga is a competent but uninspired addition to the series. It doesn’t innovate or push the franchise forward in any meaningful way. The combat-heavy focus might appeal to those looking for a basic, low-effort action game. Still, for players who enjoy exploration, world-building, or engaging storytelling, it’s likely to feel barebones and repetitive. While the game is technically sound, and I encountered no major glitches, it ultimately fails to stand out. There’s a lack of excitement, depth, and surprises. For newcomers to adventure games, Silverwind Saga could serve as a gentle introduction to the genre. However, for seasoned players or fans of the previous entries, there are far better games to invest time in, including the previous Shalnor titles.
Cave Hikers is a cosy, uplifting experience that I highly recommend to anyone looking for a stress-free puzzle adventure. Whether you play it alone or share it with friends or family, it’s a game designed to put a smile on your face. I went into it not knowing quite what to expect, but I came out thoroughly charmed. If you’re in the mood for a lighthearted, funny, and beautifully crafted adventure, Cave Hikers is well worth your time.
Big Helmet Heroes is a joy from start to finish. Whether you’re playing alone or with a friend in co-op, there’s plenty of fun to be had without the game ever feeling overly complicated. It’s the perfect pick for a game night, especially if you’re in the mood for something lighthearted and silly. While the combat can get a little repetitive over long play sessions, the variety of knights, weapons, and unexpected surprises help keep things entertaining. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to pick up, full of humour, and packed with ridiculous fun, Big Helmet Heroes is an easy recommendation
Moons of Darsalon is a standout platformer that masterfully combines retro aesthetics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a generous dose of humour. Its mix of strategic problem-solving, creative tools, and engaging rescue missions make it a joy to play, even when occasional glitches or AI hiccups cause minor frustrations. For fans of retro-inspired games, puzzle platformers, or anyone looking for something truly unique, Moons of Darsalon is a sci-fi gem that deserves a spot in your library. With its charming visuals, witty humour, and rewarding gameplay, it’s a game that will keep you coming back for more.
Montezuma’s Revenge: The 40th Anniversary Edition is a faithful celebration of a gaming classic. The retro gameplay is intact, offering the same sense of challenge and reward that made the original so beloved. With its accessible features and expanded content the game appeals to both old-school fans and new players willing to embrace its retro charm. That said, its visual update feels hit-or-miss, and the difficulty level may deter some players. Still, for those who love high-score chasing and mastering tough platformers, this game delivers a rewarding, nostalgic experience
What starts as a seemingly standard Mega Man-inspired platformer quickly reveals itself to be a charming and enjoyable surprise. With its varied gameplay, creative character abilities, and clever level design, Basureroes: Invasion manages to rise above its familiar influences. The addition of co-op play and alternate game modes adds even more replayability, making it a game that’s easy to recommend. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers a polished and fun experience that fans of retro platformers will appreciate. Whether you’re tackling levels solo or with friends, there’s plenty here to enjoy.
Ender Magnolia is a fantastic achievement of dark fantasy storytelling and gameplay. Its gorgeous visuals, emotional soundtrack, and refined mechanics combine to create an unforgettable experience. While it doesn’t drastically reinvent the formula of its predecessor, it builds upon it in meaningful ways, offering a journey that is both familiar and fresh. For fans of Ender Lilies and adventure games in general, Ender Magnolia is a must-play. Its captivating world, engaging combat, and emotional narrative will leave a lasting impression, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, a glimmer of light can shine through. This is a message I took from the first game but it resonates just as much here.
Batography is a short but incredibly charming game that delivers a burst of positivity in under 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a stress-free, mood-lifting experience, this is absolutely worth picking up. And since it’s free, there’s no reason not to give it a try. Though brief, Batography hints at the potential for a much larger and more expansive game. If the developers ever choose to revisit this formula, adding depth to the camera mechanics and expanding the world, it could be something truly special. Until then, Batography remains a delightful gem that is great for young and old players who want to relax, smile, and enjoy a wholesome experience.
Symphonia is a stunning debut from Sunny Peak that breathes fresh life into the platforming genre. Its gorgeous hand-drawn art, enchanting music, and unique non-violent gameplay make it a standout title. While its precision-focused mechanics might not appeal to everyone, it offers enough accessibility options and charm to win over most players. The challenge didn’t always click for me, verging a little too close to frustrating at times. But for fans of artistic platformers or those looking for something fresh and innovative, Symphonia is well worth picking up.