Atari 50: The Wider World of Atari DLC is a fantastic addition to the Atari 50 collection. It delivers more of what made the original game such a standout: fascinating historical insights, a beautifully curated museum-like presentation, and, of course, more classic games. If you enjoyed your first trip through the digital halls of Atari history, this DLC offers a great excuse to jump back in. And for those discovering Atari 50 for the first time, The Wider World of Atari provides yet another reason to pick up the base game and experience one of the most comprehensive presentations of retro gaming ever made. While not everyone will find themselves captivated by the classic games on offer, after all, these titles are often simplistic by today’s standards, the historical value of the collection is undeniable. For retro gaming fans, this is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Samurai Kento is an average but enjoyable action-adventure game. While its premise of an elder samurai protagonist is unique, the gameplay doesn’t introduce anything particularly new or groundbreaking. That being said, the game has a certain charm, and I found myself developing a soft spot for it despite its flaws. Perhaps this stems from an appreciation for the developer’s effort and passion, which is evident in the final product. It’s clear that Samurai Kento was crafted with care, even if it doesn’t always hit the mark. For its modest price, Samurai Kento is more than worth the cost of admission, especially if you’re looking for a simple, quick game to play over a weekend. Just be sure to temper your expectations and enjoy the ride for what it is: a short, straightforward adventure that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Elsie is an excellent action roguelike that deserves the attention of any fan of the genre. Its tight controls, flexible gameplay mechanics, and addictive progression system make for a highly enjoyable experience. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it executes its familiar formula with enough polish and flair to keep players engaged. The game’s only real drawback is its adherence to the well-trodden path of the action roguelike genre. If you’ve already played your fair share of these games, Elsie might not offer anything new enough to rekindle your enthusiasm. However, if you’re still hungry for more roguelike action, or if this is your first time exploring the genre, Elsie is well worth your time.
Worlds of Aria does a brilliant job of recreating the tabletop RPG experience while maintaining its own personality. It’s an enjoyable game on your own, but it becomes absolutely fantastic when shared with friends. With simple mechanics and accessible gameplay, it’s easy for players of all skill levels to jump in and have fun. What really sets Worlds of Aria apart is its ability to make even failure fun. Whether you’re succeeding or stumbling through challenges, there are always laughs and memorable moments to be had. The game’s charm, coupled with its tabletop-inspired mechanics, makes it a must-play, especially if you have friends or family to join in.
Cash Cow DX is a solid arcade game that channels the spirit of 80s classics. As I’ve said about many of Flynn’s Arcade’s releases, if they ever opened a real arcade filled with the games they’ve published, I’d happily visit and spend a few coins. For the price of entry, Cash Cow DX offers a fun and challenging arcade experience that’s particularly suited for retro gaming fans. That said, the game’s difficulty might prove to be a bit too much for casual players or those unfamiliar with the punishing mechanics of old-school arcade games. While it’s not the best arcade game I’ve ever played, it’s certainly worth the cost for fans of quick, nostalgic action.
In the end, BAKERU is a delightful adventure packed with charm, offering a whimsical journey through a beautifully crafted world. The expansive levels, rhythmic combat, and fun driving segments keep things varied and engaging, while the game’s attention to detail and love for Japanese culture makes it feel like a heartfelt tribute to the country’s folklore.
Last Dream Fishing Arcade while simple, is a nice little fishing game to dabble in from time to time. In today’s gaming lingo, it might be considered a “loading game,” something to play while waiting for a bigger, more demanding title to install. While it doesn’t reinvent the fishing game formula, I can’t deny that it offers a pleasant escape, especially after a stressful day. It’s the kind of game that allows you to switch off your brain and enjoy a peaceful, low-stakes gaming experience. For the price of entry, it’s well worth checking out, particularly if you’re a fan of fishing games or just looking for something relaxing to play in short bursts
Shogun Showdown is a dangerously addictive roguelike but in the best way possible. Its challenging but fair gameplay encourages you to learn from your mistakes, and the more you play, the more you’ll improve. It’s perfect for fans of the genre, but its quick play sessions and easy-to-understand mechanics also make it a great choice for gamers who are short on time. Don’t be deceived by the simple pixel art. Shogun Showdown offers a deep, rewarding experience that’s well worth exploring. The game excels at delivering satisfying, strategic gameplay that keeps you coming back for more. A free demo is available on the Nintendo Switch eShop.
Yars Rising is a fantastic action-adventure game that brings back the charm of the original while adding fresh, modern gameplay elements. WayForward’s signature style is evident throughout, from the humour and exploration to the engaging combat and clever hacking mini-games. While the stealth sections may not appeal to everyone, the overall experience is compelling, especially with its excellent performance and polished presentation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Yars’ Revenge or new to the series, Yars Rising is well worth your time.
Crossy Road Castle successfully captures the pick-up-and-play ease and addictive nature of the original Crossy Road while presenting it in a new platformer design that’s both welcoming to newcomers and engaging for experienced players. Whether you’re playing alone or with friends, there’s something in this game for everyone to enjoy. For me, it’s a game that brings together all the best elements of mobile gaming and adapts them brilliantly to modern consoles.
Cylinder: Puzzles Returned is a solid puzzle game that offers a range of modes to suit different types of players. Whether you prefer the slower, more thoughtful pace of Adventure Mode, the fast-paced action of Endless Mode, or the competitive thrill of multiplayer, there’s something here for everyone. While Cylinder doesn’t necessarily reinvent the wheel, it offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience that puzzle fans will appreciate. It may not stick with you as much as other iconic puzzle games, but it’s still a worthy addition to any puzzle lover’s library and a great option for your next game night.
Gimmick! 2 is everything a sequel to the original classic should be. It takes the core elements that made the first game special and builds on them with refined graphics, improved level design, and a charming presentation that outshines the original in every way. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel or introduce groundbreaking new ideas, it does what it sets out to do exceptionally well. This is an easy recommendation for fans of retro platformers, and I’d even go as far as to recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good gaming experience.
In the end, Shadow of the Ninja Reborn is a game that knows exactly what it wants to be. It’s a love letter to the challenging, no-nonsense games of the NES era, complete with all the frustrations and triumphs that come with that territory. The beautiful new graphics and satisfying ninja action make it a pleasure to look at and play, at least for those who have the patience to see it through. However, it’s not without its flaws. The controls could have been modernized, particularly when it comes to the more complex ninja moves, and the decision to force players to manage items in real-time during combat feels like an unnecessary nod to retro difficulty. A younger version of myself, with more time and patience, would have adored this game and relished the challenge of mastering its every nuance. But as I’ve grown older, I find myself with less tolerance for games that demand such a high level of dedication. That said, I still appreciate what the developers have achieved here, and I believe that retro purists will love this game for its authenticity and challenge. Casual players, however, might want to think twice before diving in.
Treasure Journey is okay. Not amazing, but there’s fun to be found. Navigating through the islands, you’ll find yourself immersed in a variety of clever puzzles that require both strategy and patience. The simplicity of the graphics doesn’t detract from the enjoyment; instead, it allows you to focus on the satisfying challenge of solving each puzzle. Treasure Journey proves that sometimes, a good puzzle and a touch of adventure are all you need for a delightful gaming experience.
Castaway may be short and may not bring much new to the table in terms of gameplay, but it has a lot of charm. From its nostalgic pixel design to its variety of difficulty settings, Castaway offers a pleasant gaming experience perfect for a warm summer weekend. Whether you’re playing alone or sharing the game with a younger player, the adventure feels worthwhile despite its brevity. Here’s hoping the game finds an audience so we can see more from this developer in the future.
Just Crow Things is another fantastic effort from Unbound Creations. The controls are easy to pick up, making the game accessible to all ages, and the overall experience is a sheer joy to play. Whether you’re soaring through the sky or causing crow-style chaos, the game keeps you entertained from start to finish. It’s worth noting that the casual nature of the gameplay might not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for a more challenging experience. However, this is a game designed to be fun, to make you laugh, and maybe even to share that experience with a loved one. I’m incredibly happy with the time I spent playing Just Crow Things, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a lighthearted, uplifting game.
Dice & Fold is extremely addictive. I mostly played the game on Steam Deck, where I could use the touch screen to drag and drop dice. I picked this game up expecting a run-of-the-mill roguelike, but before I knew it, 10 hours had passed, and my hair was more grey. The graphics may be a bit bland, but Dice & Fold absolutely nails its gameplay. Easily one of the best roguelikes I’ve played this year. Highly recommended.
Overall, I like Guayota. The game takes a different approach by drawing on lesser-known mythology and offering an experimental style of puzzle-solving that is incredibly rewarding, especially when you have the space to take in the level and figure things out on your own. What didn’t click for me was the aggressive use of traps and hazards, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, while the dark cave settings contribute to the game’s atmosphere, they can sometimes make it difficult to see what you’re doing. Despite these issues, Guayota is well worth trying if you’re open to something new and different and enjoy puzzle games. It may not be perfect, but its unique approach and rewarding gameplay make it a standout in the puzzle genre. A free demo is available on the Nintendo eShop if you want to try it out.
Star Wars Bounty Hunter successfully revives a beloved classic, delivering an experience that combines nostalgia with a few modern enhancements. The game’s engaging combat, updated visuals, and authentic Star Wars atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of the franchise and action-adventure enthusiasts. Despite some repetitive elements and a lack of significant new features, Star Wars Bounty Hunter remains a solid addition to the Star Wars gaming universe. The re-release manages to capture the essence of the original while offering a fresh and polished experience for those trying for the first time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Jango Fett or new to the galaxy far, far away, Star Wars Bounty Hunter is still an old but good time.
Hannah’s Day is a cosy puzzler you can likely complete over the weekend. Its focus on a follow-your-dreams narrative and simple puzzles make it perfect for casual players. While the story didn’t entirely hit the mark for me, its positive message is one we can all get behind. Whether or not you decide to pick up the skateboard and ride with Hannah, her journey is a pleasant one. There is a free demo available on Steam to try out.