The strategic gameplay is fun but isn’t quite as deep as I expected. The story has moments that felt very on-brand for the series and well done, while at some other points, I wasn’t grabbed like I felt I should. The RPG elements are well made and add to the experience, but they don’t have the same punch as its namesake. I can see fans of the series enjoying it, but compared to its brothers, it isn’t as strong an entry, and franchise fatigue plays a part in my feelings towards the game. Perhaps Atlus should consider looking to the next era of Persona before they end up tarnishing the great legacy created with this one.
Sea of Stars is a triumphant JRPG that pays homage to the classics and carves its own space in the pantheon of its best titles. The world and characters were excellent, and experiencing the story alongside them was an absolute joy. Whether it was combat, exploration, or puzzles, I always found myself fully invested in the adventures of Zale, Valere, and everyone else I met on the journey. The masterful way that Sabotage Studio has been able to capture that feeling of adventure and nostalgia is nothing short of incredible, and Sea of Stars not only sits among some of the genre’s greatest, but it manages to exceed them. It is truly one of the best JRPGs I have ever played.
To boil it down to the basics, Diablo IV is the best version of the series formula we have seen, even with a few blemishes. Everything great about the series, the combat, gameplay, loot chasing, dungeon diving action is all top-notch, and its simple yet profoundly complex and layering systems show why Diablo is the top dog of action RPGs.
Developer Fatshark’s newest outing builds upon the great foundation of its work on Vermintide. Darktide offers a refined and evolved co-op experience with expanded, thrilling combat and more robust customization. While a lack of an engaging story and network issues hamper its potential, this co-op shooter still offers one of the best Warhammer games I've seen in recent years.
A fast-paced tactical bullet hell RPG that manages to blend its different elements with real skill, despite a few pacing and story issues.
The Phantom Thieves are back! Having released in Japan last year, Persona 5 Strikers finally makes its way to Western audiences. This new action JRPG blends the brilliant style and story of Persona 5 with dynasty warriors gameplay, giving us whole new way to experience this stellar world Atlus has created.
Ever fancied playing a dating sim without all the lovey-dovey nonsense? Would you rather enjoy wacky scenarios and clever yet juvenile writing? If your answer was yes to any of these, then you should look no further than Monster Camp.