Atelier Sophie 2 has a well-built alchemy setup and battle mechanics that make it enjoyable even if the overall game has an outdated look. Hopefully, these fun mechanics will reappear in an expanded form in future Atelier games. In the meantime, savor this good dream!
Ultimately, Aztech Forgotten Gods is a decent outing with its intriguing heroine and equally intriguing world of massive boss fights. It certainly has the potential to be a great game, but its graphics and gameplay mechanics need more refinement before it can reach that level. For now, these gods risk being forgotten again.
The Cruel and the Great Hero is a delightful RPG to play for those looking for a relaxing, wholesome story. The game feels more like a small adventure than a large-scale epic like Final Fantasy, but that’s totally fine. Grab your twig and venture forth, soon-to-be-great hero!
Rune Factory 5 takes a big step going all 3D, but it stumbles a bit with framerate issues and uninspiring textures. However, the game’s cast of characters, inclusion of same-sex marriages, and barnful of gameplay value mean players shouldn’t pass this up. The farming life is a decent life, indeed.
Gal*Gun Double Peace, despite the overflow of lewdness and some frustrating rail shooting, has a nice set of interesting characters and multiple endings that offer a decent amount of replay value. It’s also just a fun little guilty pleasure, so take aim and find your true love.
Pretty Girls Rivers is one of the better puzzle games offered by EastAsiaSoft and is recommended to those who enjoy mahjong solitaire. Unfortunately, there’s not enough content to satisfy players for too long. Still, clear the pile and make room for this one, puzzle lovers.
Light Fairytale Episode 1 is fun, but it feels more like a tease. This JRPG inspired title has what it takes to become a great game, but it needs more content to prove it. Those who enjoyed classic JRPGs from the ‘90s will want to visit this world. Turn your blade on and prepare for a quick battle.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is a must-play arcade throwback regardless of whether you are familiar with the franchise. With clean animations and the option for a party of six, it’s hard not to pass the game up, even if the adventure is short. Grab a slice of pizza and jump in. Cowabunga!
Capcom Fighting Collection is a fun compilation of arcade games that any fighting fan, new or old, will want to own. Practice your Hadouken and catlike reflexes. It’s time to fight!
Voyage is an indie game for all ages that’s worth a trip if you’re looking for casual exploration in a stunningly beautiful 2D world. It’s unfortunate that the title can be finished so quickly and is occasionally tedious, but the journey is still pretty nice while it lasts.
Blossom Tales II: The Minotaur Prince is a fun, pixel adventure sequel that shouldn’t be missed, especially if you’re a fan of classic 2D Zelda games. Get ready for another exciting tale from Grandpa and save your bro!
Super Bullet Break is a game that has a lot of potential, but its frustrating roguelike gameplay makes it difficult to hang onto and finish. If you have the ambition and are willing to learn the game’s strategic mechanics, give it a whirl and save the gaming world!
Mega Man Battle & Fighters is a fun port for Mega Man fanatics to play since most have never had the chance to try The Power Battle and The Power Fighters. Unfortunately, the game's single-player-only mode and lack of additional content prevent it from being greater. It’s more Decent Man than Mega Man.
The Legend of Heroes: Trails from Zero may have outdated graphics, but it’s still a fun and entertaining game that role-playing fans should pick up. Grab your badge and report for duty!
From creating potions to going on dates and more, Potion Permit’s simple name belies the fact that this game will swallow you in with plenty of things to do. Those who enjoy simulation games should give this a whirl despite some weird glitches and easy minigame challenges. So settle into Moonbury, grab some ingredients, and start producing those potions!
Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is a fantastic strategy game with a great roster of heroes, an impressive soundtrack, lovely animation, humor, and more. In other words, having Mario and the Rabbids come together (again!) is a delight for newcomers and veteran gamers alike. Let’s-a go to battle!
Lunistice is a diamond-in-the-rough game with a great soundtrack that deserves your attention if you enjoy polygon throwbacks to the ‘90s. Seriously, it’s only $5, so pick it up and get ready for a polygonal ride.
Lil Gator Game is simple but entertaining, and will suck you in for hours of delightful, heart-warming, adventuring fun. Even if it’s missing a convenient feature or two, when all is said and done, you’ll wish you could play at the playground even longer. Hail, the lil gatoring hero!
The Knight Witch has a great mixture of gameplay styles and a fulfilling soundtrack that players will want to explore from top to bottom. While it has some technical issues, it doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy this special indie title.
NeoGeo Pocket Color Selection Vol. 2 has a few interesting titles but as a whole, there’s not enough to satisfy that price tag. You’re better off purchasing some of these titles separately and still spend less.