Even with criticisms regarding combat, Trek to Yomi is far from a bad place. It’s apparent that Flying Wild Hog took this game as a labor of love, putting so much heart and character into it. Anyone that enjoys the samurai film genre, Japanese history, or less traditional games, in general, would be wise to give this a shot. I played this game on Xbox Series S via Game Pass, though it is available on other platforms. It can also be completed in anywhere from 5 to 6 hours, meaning that it won’t overstay its welcome. If you have an afternoon to spare, after reading our Trek to Yomi review, steel yourself and set forth on a journey you may never forget.
There’s been something of a PlayStation One era revival in the indie gaming scene over the past few years, with a visual style and presentation reminiscent of PS1 classics. Fatum Betula is no exception, adding further credence to the idea that we are seeing an early 3D era renaissance of sorts. Even for those that hold next to no nostalgia for such an old-school presentation, Fatum Betula’s problem-solving gameplay and borderline haunting mood make it a must-play.
Though it took a few years to release, it’s safe to say that Deltarune Chapter 2 is a success. While Chapter 1 was an enjoyable romp, featuring a story with various twists and turns, Chapter 2 is an improvement in virtually every way. It’s clear that Toby Fox put considerable love into this project, and the fact that it’s available to download at no cost makes it a no-brainer for curious gamers. If I were to levy any criticism toward Chapter 2, it’s that it’s over too soon, though this is a credit more so toward Fox’s work than anything else. Both Deltarune Chapters 1 and 2 are entirely free, with subsequent chapters able to be purchased once they’re released. If the quality seen in Chapter 2 carries over into subsequent entries, Deltarune will be an independent video game to remember.
Thomas Happ clearly set out to make Axiom Verge 2 a familiar yet fresh sequel. While players of the original game will feel at home upon taking their first steps in the Antarctic, it quickly becomes evident that this is an entirely new adventure. Axiom Verge 2 builds upon what its predecessor established in various ways. The combat may not be overly challenging or deep. Nonetheless, this doesn’t take away from the overall experience that the player will gain. For Metroidvania enthusiasts, in particular, this is well worth your investment.
Despite the game’s shortcomings, it’s difficult to deny that The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is the best way to play what’s considered the origin point of the entire series. Going back to replay this adventure on Switch, I found myself enjoying it much more. While I completed the Wii version roughly a decade ago, I was never motivated to replay it in the same way that I have other titles including The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, A Link to the Past, and the first Breath of the Wild. Skyward Sword had multiple quirks that the remaster smooth out or eliminates completely. In fact, between this, the Link’s Awakening reimagining on the same platform, and the Wind Waker and Twilight Princess remakes that landed on Nintendo Wii U, it begs the question: what other Zelda titles could benefit from remasters? Rumors have been circulating about such titles as Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons being revisited, though, with any rumors in the gaming industry, these should be taken with a grain of salt. In regard to this Skyward Sword HD review, given the game’s improvements, shortcomings, and all, the game comes highly recommended.
With all of this said, is Game Builder Garage worthwhile? The answer to this question largely depends on the mindset one goes into the game with. Keep in mind that this isn’t a traditional video game. Rather, it’s an application for game development. This isn’t Super Mario Maker 2 where, despite the focus on level creation, a full-fledged game exists within it. Game Builder Garage is all about building levels and projects from the ground up. This isn’t to say that the game lacks value for those uninterested in game development. This is where the user-generated content mentioned earlier comes into play. Within days of Game Builder Garage‘s initial release, a number of promising projects hit the internet. Everything from a first-person shooter level inspired by Doom Eternal to a Super Mario Kart track to a recreation of Minecraft can be seen and downloaded right now. Furthermore, even without an online sharing option in the game, there are fan communities that ensure such creations are found and experienced. YouTube channels such as GameXplain have been actively showcasing many of the best Game Builder Garage creations, generating that much more awareness. If you’re willing to do some digging online, you can find an ever-growing treasure trove of concepts waiting to blossom.