Jason Hon
Despite the game's pacing issues and ability to enrage its players, Ghostrunner 2 can be a challenging game to put down. The game's exciting synth-wave tracks and well-written supporting cast pair well with its visuals and outstanding boss battles to keep players interested. Ghostrunner 2 improves on the first game in many ways, but if the sequel were an anime, a lot of it would feel like filler material between its more engaging, epic boss battles.
Now that the entirety of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 has been released, it's hard not to be disappointed in the anticipated title. For a franchise that once innovated and drove other shooters to be better, MW3 feels devoid of fresh ideas. Even the Warzone-like zombie mode feels like several good ideas smashed into a mode that doesn't click. Unfortunately, much of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 feels like a game stuck in the early 2000s, and players looking for something actually modern will need to look elsewhere.
Naruto Storm Connections introduces great upgrades to its addictive arena combat & a story that welcomes new players while tantalizing long-time fans.
A multiplayer game about killing the Justice League from the creators of the Batman Arkham trilogy fails to revolutionize an oversaturated genre.
Because of the disappointing presentation and lack of engaging modes, Jujutsu Kaisen Curshed Clash is difficult to recommend to anyone other than the most invested JJK veterans. While the characters and ultimate attacks can look great with well-constructed animations, the gameplay fails to be addicting enough to entice players to keep coming back. The franchise is an incredible vehicle for a great fighting game, but unfortunately that potential has not been realized in Jujutsu Kaisen Curshed Clash.
Ironwood Studios' debut game accomplishes to be an immersive survival driving adventure. Its intense treks through mind-bending obstacles are balanced with humor and relaxing moments provided by crafting and upgrading useful tools and car components, along with Pacific Drive's catchy alternative rock soundtrack. It's an incredibly impressive debut game that should put the new studio on the map: "there's no peace of mind or place you'll see, like riding on Pacific Drive."
Tekken 8 is jam-packed with modes, story, and customizable options that should allow players of any skill level to have fun. Battling against veteran players in the multiple online modes will likely be a punishing experience for new players. Still, the latest installment offers the best tools in the franchise yet to master each of its 32 playable characters. Despite being more accessible than ever, Tekken 8 is challenging to master, and continues to make a case for itself as one of gaming's most complex and rewarding fighters.