It is still hard to believe the residents of the Mushroom Kingdom and the Rabbids can live so harmoniously in the same game, but much like its predecessor, Sparks of Hope defies all expectations and provides a constantly delightful and rewarding experience on all fronts. Armed with delicious combat, swelling music tracks, and overflowing charm and hilarity, Sparks of Hope is one of the finest games of the year.
Valkyrie Elysium's strong combat can't fully overshadow an otherwise lifeless and mundane experience.
Though the presentation could have used one more coat of paint, it doesn't prevent the game's core from shining brightly. Posing difficult and meaningful questions, Road 96 makes the player feel like every decision made has its consequences. And with such a vibrant and sympathetic cast of characters, you will want to ensure all of them get the ending they deserve. This is a story with heart, passion, and is a game for the dreamers who wish for a better tomorrow.
A motion control party game that's best in couch co-op, but doesn't possess the same revolutionary novelty as its predecessor.
Scarf certainly is an enjoyable experience; its combination of engaging story and strong environments are enough to keep the player absorbed for its four hour campaign. But due to its commonplace gameplay, it doesn't do enough to make it a true standout in the genre. But regardless of its issues, Scarf is for those wanting a leisurely and fantastical escape from the troubles of the world; something we could all use from time to time.
The Lightbringer misses many opportunities. Despite having great core gameplay, it fails to immerse the player in its lore and aura due to its rough, and at times, incomplete edges. If players are willing to look past these shortcomings, the gameplay will keep fans of 2.5D platformers satisfied. That is, if they don't skip a level every time they are met with the slightest of challenges.
Though some mechanics haven't aged gracefully, Wonder Boy is still a lively and charming remake.
An underwhelming port of a cult classic.
This is one of the hardest games I have ever had to review. Partially because I haven't played the The Longing in its entirety, but also because I simply don't know where the journey will take me. Many people will write off this game for being boring or too slow paced; I certainly grew impatient many times and had to take a break. But if the player can understand the slow pacing as a means to communicate The Longing's true essence, they will be rewarded with a purgative experience unlike anything I've ever seen.
A dysfunctional port of an otherwise solid and charming platformer.
Upon reaching Lost Word's conclusion, I wasn't quite sure who the game's intended audience was. Yes, it is through the eyes of a young girl, and the platforming is approachable for newer gamers, but the story hits unexpectedly hard, and the emotions on display might be too difficult to comprehend for younger children who have never lost a loved one. As an adult, I was quite invested in the story, but unfortunately, not at all in the gameplay. Putting aside the uninteresting platforming, Lost Words: Beyond the Page is a lovely coming of age story, and a beautiful recreation of what its like to feel lost, and ultimately find yourself again.
Persona 5 Strikers is not a typical spin off; it is a full-fledged sequel filled with real characters, a gripping story, and an addicting gameplay loop. And though it is a different genre than its antecedent, the love and personality poured into this game puts it on par with the best follow ups I've ever played. Since Atlus creates a new set of heroes for every mainline Persona entry, this could be the last time we see Joker. I hope not. Persona 5 Strikers made me relive my love for Persona 5 and the Phantom Thieves, and I never want to see them go.
Overall, these impairments do not prevent Blue Fire from being a tremendously satisfying experience. Regardless of how tough the platforming can be, I savored every moment in this world. Even after dying dozens of times, I was still motivated to progress to see what new kinds of wonders awaited me if I could just make it to the next platform. The amount of mystery, content, and challenge ROBI Studios packs into a $20 package is quite impressive and left me hungry for more even after the game's conclusion. Blue Fire emulates the successes of definitive 2D and 3D games and is perfect for anyone with an appetite for a stimulating platformer or action-adventure complete with a gorgeous and enthralling world to explore.