Overall then, this really is one of the best games I've played this year. It's twitchy but easy to pick up, with depth that you wouldn't necessarily expect from a shooter, and it's an easy recommend from me. Happily, if you're of the PC persuasion, it's also playable on Steam Deck for those who prefer hand-held extermination. Who would think that spreading democracy would be such fun?
With a completion time of about 5 hours (8 hours to 100%), CyberCorp doesn't outstay its welcome. It's the definition of a quick-couple-of-goes blast, and honing your loadout between missions, while complex-seeming at first, is good fun, particularly when you can drop back in and make mincemeat out of a boss that's caused you some pain on previous attempts. At a reasonable price point of around £16, it's a definite one for twin-stick fans, while looter shooter aficionados will get their fix too.
Overall then, Beyond the Ice Palace 2 is a competent entry in the modern ranks of Metroidvania-style games. The graphics and sound are a good selling point and provide atmosphere, and the boss battles are fun and generally challenging without being unfair. However, the general gameplay is all a bit slow and the traversal awkward, which prevents it from being a classic of the genre. Worth a go if you go mental for this stuff or you find it on sale, otherwise try the demo and see how you get on.
Overall, while Europa isn't troubling my 2024 best-of list, its visuals, charm and story do enough to lift it above average and make it worth a look.
Is that a horrible tentacled thing ahead?
Blasphemous 2, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways
...this is a big winner for me and almost surpasses the first game
"I Was Well On Board Even Before Picking Up The Controller"
If you’re a Catan or board game fan, or just enjoy a relaxing, easy-to-pick-up experience then this is worth your consideration.
This game is a mess, but that's part of its charm
A must-buy for fans of the genre, and definitely worth a glance for others
On the surface, Bravery and Greed looks like a souped-up Wonderboy clone
Sometimes You Want to Just Smash Some Heads
You are scratching a living as the last surviving human...
A definite for wrestling fans
Imagine a 2D Lara Croft, with Prince of Persia Moves...
With Pixel-Art Graphics and a Dash of Humour