The developers of Pine deserve immense credit for tackling such a challenging subject. Grief is not an easy topic to explore, but the game handles it with grace, showing both despair and fleeting beauty in equal measure. It also offers a rare and honest portrayal of male mental health, capturing the struggle in a way few games have dared to before. Pine: A Story of Loss is not for everyone. It’s emotionally heavy, and some may find its rawness difficult to face. But for those willing to embrace its message, it offers a deeply moving experience and even a few quiet smiles along the way. If nothing else it reminded me of the importance of appreciating the ones you love in the moment as you just never know what life will throw at you.
Completely Stretchy offers a pleasant walk through a highly unusual yet original world. Its simple mechanics and casual flow make it perfect for relaxed gaming sessions or even for sharing the experience with a friend. While it doesn’t innovate in gameplay, its unique art direction and whimsical charm make it worth exploring.
CarGo! is a quick, satisfying arcade experience, fun for solo runs or chaotic co-op sessions with friends and family. It’s easy to pick up, offering enjoyment for players of all skill levels. While the floaty controls may deter serious high-score chasers, the overall experience is fun and inviting. For a casual, lighthearted game night, CarGo! delivers
In conclusion, Town Keeper is a delightful and well-rounded strategy game that excels at being easy to learn while still offering enough complexity to satisfy players who enjoy fine-tuning their strategies. It’s great for anyone who wants a relaxed, enjoyable experience with the option to dial up the difficulty when desired. Whether you’re looking for a casual, low-commitment game or a challenge that tests your strategic thinking, Town Keeper delivers on all fronts with its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and versatile objectives.
Spirit Mancer is an ambitious 2D adventure that tries to do a lot and mostly succeeds. It’s like a love letter to the 90s when games crammed in as many features as possible. While the difficulty spikes and overwhelming mechanics might deter some players, those willing to invest the time will find a lot to love. Plus, co-op mode makes everything better. It’s not perfect, but as a first entry in a new IP, it’s a fantastic start. If the developers refine the formula in a sequel, we could have something truly special on our hands. A free demo is available on Steam, go give it a spin.
Tic Tac Toe World does its job at a basic level, but it’s not going to knock anyone’s socks off. It’s inexpensive, so if you’re an avid fan of the game and don’t mind playing against an AI, you might find some enjoyment here, especially with the added modes like Colour Mode. However, for most players, this game lacks the features needed to stand out. The absence of local multiplayer makes it hard to recommend, and the lifeless presentation does little to win players over. For a more authentic experience, a simple pen and paper might serve you better.
Servonauts is a delightful addition to any game night lineup. It’s easy to pick up, accessible for everyone, and packed with enough chaotic fun to keep you entertained for hours. Sure, it plays things a little safe, focusing heavily on its pipe-based gameplay without branching out much, but it nails what it sets out to do. Whether you’re yelling at friends to fix a broken pipeline or enjoying the game solo, Servonauts delivers a fantastic experience. What is the best way to fuel your Switch? With this game.
Slopecrashers is a love letter to the arcade-style snowboarding games of yesteryear. It’s accessible, fun, and packed with options for solo players and multiplayer chaos, local or online. While it doesn’t reinvent the snowboard, it’s a nostalgic ride down memory lane with a modern twist. Sure, it has a few rough edges, some modes are hit-or-miss, and the visuals aren’t groundbreaking, but the gameplay is engaging enough to keep you coming back for “just one more race.” A lot of hard work has clearly gone into this game from the developer, and it shows. I highly recommend it.
Snow Bros. Wonderland is a cheerful platformer that successfully brings the arcade magic of its predecessors into the modern era. While the story might overstay its welcome, and the controls can feel a little slippery at times, the overall experience is as satisfying as a snow day. Whether you’re playing solo or with friends, it’s a great way to chill out (pun intended) this holiday season.
Taito Milestones 3 delivers another stellar retro bundle. If you loved the previous two collections, this one’s an easy buy. Whether you’re here for Rainbow Islands, the joy of saving animals in Runark, or just some good old-fashioned bubble-popping action, this collection features some of Taito’s best, especially if you’re looking for a nice selection of local co-op games. It’s a shame there’s no behind-the-scenes content, but when the games are this fun, who’s complaining? Grab your Switch and get ready for some retro nights filled with charm, challenge, and a whole lot of nostalgia.
Ultimately, Billy Saves the World is an ambitious game that successfully merges precision platforming, puzzle-solving, and meaningful choice. I’ll admit, the game didn’t click with me immediately. It’s one that grows on you, especially as you start exploring its multifaceted approach to gameplay. For some players, the humour and mechanics will resonate right away, while others may need more time and patience to see their potential. I wholeheartedly recommend giving this game a try, but be prepared for a learning curve. It’s worth downloading the free demo to see if its unique blend of styles suits your preferences. A free demo is available on Steam.
VED is an original game that dares to try new things and succeeds at most of them. The decision-making feels meaningful, the dice-roll segments add tension and stakes, and the battles are genuinely epic. The art direction is nothing short of breathtaking. My main gripe is that the story, while captivating, sometimes drags and could use some tightening up. Even so, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a shot. The hard work of the developers shows, and it’s a journey that deserves to be experienced. A free prologue is available on Steam for those who want to dip their toes into the world of VED before taking the full plunge.
In the end, Fate of Fire: Kyvedy Guardiah wasn’t for me. I found the game tedious and challenging in ways that detracted from the fun. Yet, it’s clear the developers put considerable effort into creating an original world and story backed by a strong soundtrack and imaginative visuals. This game will likely appeal to players who relish problem-solving, have the patience for repeated level attempts, and enjoy overcoming intricate challenges. So, while I personally struggled with Fate of Fire: Kyvedy Guardiah, I can still see how it might resonate with other players, particularly those who thrive in challenging, unconventional games. It’s a game with heart and originality, and if you’re open to supporting indie developers and exploring new gameplay experiences, you might just find something special here.
Super Bunny Man is like a novelty gift: you’ll get some laughs and enjoyment out of it, but it’s probably not something you’ll revisit often. Solo play can be frustrating, but the co-op and competitive modes offer plenty of opportunities for chaotic fun with friends or family. While the awkward controls may drive some players hopping mad, the game’s silly charm and potential for laugh-out-loud moments make it worth a try, especially if you’ve got someone to share the chaos with.
Blobbton is a simple yet clever puzzler that stands out for its balance of accessibility and challenge. Each mode introduces a new twist on tile-based puzzles, creating variety without straying from the game’s relaxing core. For its affordable price, Blobbton offers hours of satisfying gameplay, with the added bonus of Steam Deck compatibility, allowing players to enjoy this cosy puzzler on the go. Blobbton is a delightful puzzle experience that prioritizes ease of play and welcoming vibes, making it a must-try for anyone looking for a light, engaging game.
Aero the Acro-Bat: Rascal Rival Revenge is a solid retro platformer with its own unique quirks and moments of frustration. It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who enjoy nostalgic games or have fond memories of Aero, it’s worth revisiting. The preservation of classic games on modern platforms is always a win in my book.
In the end, I found myself enjoying Astral Flux, though I recognize that it won’t be for everyone. Its high entry difficulty, reliance on limited resources, and repetitive starting levels could be deal-breakers for more casual players or those looking for a game that rewards exploration. Some mechanics, like the runes, also feel underdeveloped, as they often make an already difficult game even harder without offering much reward in return. Additionally, the upgrade system might feel sparse compared to other roguelikes, making the progression feel slower and less immediate. However, for players who appreciate a challenging, minimalist roguelike experience, Astral Flux can be a rewarding experience. I found the limited upgrades and tight oxygen system heightened the sense of vulnerability and urgency, leading to satisfying moments when I successfully navigated a challenging level. It’s a tough game, but if you’re up for the challenge, there’s a lot to appreciate. For those still unsure, the free demo, available on Switch and Steam, offers a good taste of what Astral Flux has to offer, try it, and see if this space adventure is right for you.
Tetris Forever is a fitting tribute to one of the most beloved video games of all time. Even 40 years after its creation, the simple yet addictive gameplay of Tetris continues to captivate players. This collection highlights why Tetris has endured and hints at why it will likely remain a staple of gaming culture for decades to come. For those interested in gaming history or even casual Tetris fans, Tetris Forever is a must-own. Digital Eclipse once again proves that this is the gold standard for preserving and showcasing video game legacies.
For its affordable price, Apples Busy Day delivers a delightful, short, and heartwarming experience. While the gameplay may not bring anything particularly groundbreaking to the table, its simplicity and charming design make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a relaxing, wholesome gaming session. It’s the kind of game that may bring a smile to your face simply by virtue of its good-natured spirit and gentle gameplay. If you’re in the mood for an easy, feel-good game that can be enjoyed in about an hour, Apple’s Busy Day is certainly worth a try.
Soul Stalker is a fantastic pick-up-and-play experience, particularly for players who prefer games that are easy to jump into and enjoy in short sessions. With its endearing art style, accessible mechanics, and an impressive variety of unlockables, it offers a compelling option at a budget-friendly price. While it may not convert sceptics of the bullet heaven genre, it serves as an excellent introduction for new players or a relaxed, low-stress alternative to more intense roguelikes. Soul Stalker has plenty to offer if you’re looking for a charming, low-commitment gaming experience.