Andres Aviles
Although the overall risks of the narrative are pretty low, and even the gameplay feels laidback, the dialogue and interactions of each character shine and are solely worth the playthrough just for that. If you are an avid follower of the series, then your enjoyment will only multiply. KONOSUBA is a very popular anime that deserves a comical and authentic video game adaptation, and that’s exactly what this game is.
Well-documented leaks muddied initial opinions of The Last of Us Part II by now, but with the benefit of time, it is easy to see why it won so many awards four years ago, and it will stand the test of time as one of the greatest games ever made. The parallel storyline, risky payoff, immaculate soundtrack, and iconic performances, now remastered and with more meaningful content than ever, will always be there for us when we wish to relive a harrowingly told tale as old as time.
Although the runtime of the main narrative is relatively short, clocking in at about 20 hours or so, the replayability value of Granblue Fantasy: Relink is off the charts. Taking into account the more than 100 quests on offer, the Fate Episodes to learn more information about every character, and the online mode to set out on adventures with up to three friends is virtually an endless trove of entertainment for those looking for an Action RPG with substance.
Given PSVR2‘s current RPG offerings, RUINSMAGUS: Complete is a breath of fresh air with its mission-based incursions into its dangerous catacombs, customizable equipment, and narrative focused on climbing the ranks of the Magus Guild. Ultimately, the empowering sensation of being a mage in control of all their powers is a feeling this game recreates well. At the best of times, it can make you feel like you are inside a classic fantasy story, and if that is what you have been searching for, look no further.
Whether you are accomplishing a lifelong dream of playing with a train kit or are lucky enough to have a dedicated space and would just try the novel new VR game in the store, Toy Trains goes beyond what a usual offering of virtual reality does in that not only does it recreate a fun mechanic to try but in that, it also adds an original spin to establish itself as a PSVR2 title to spend a quiet afternoon in and make it a memorable one.
Among the current offerings on the VR market, Horizon Call of the Mountain stands out as a PSVR2 exclusive because of its unique use of all the PlayStation ecosystem represents. A faithful representation of arguably one of its biggest IPs, standout use of its flagship Adaptive Triggers and Haptic Feedback, and a heightened cinematic feeling throughout Ryas’ journey. If there ever was a system seller for an unproven technology, this is it.
Working as one of the best recreations of movie IPs of all time, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora reaches the heights and callbacks from some of the most memorable scenes from the series. Long gone are the days of cheap tie-in movies for a cash grab. Ubisoft has proven with this entry that a new form of video game world inspired by blockbuster intellectual property can exist.
Moira’s adventure can parallel many people’s experiences as teenagers, living that eternally rebellious angst and not knowing what to do about their future. Embracing its cultural inspirations and creating a heartfelt rendition of the Scottish Highlands and everything they represent, A Highland Song is a beautiful reminder that nature is the best teacher.
Playing dress up is always entertaining, especially with this many options. There is a clear area of opportunity for this type of cozy game that, with a bit more polish and focus, can truly shine. Fashion Dreamer is a step in the right direction for its target audience with its seemingly endless wardrobe choices, but the lack of any meaningful story content can make the game feel pointless. With the promise of updates and special events on the horizon, here’s hoping it can become a high-fashion game for the ages.
Stray Souls is a constant reminder that game development is tough to tackle, and what hopes to scare on the wrong hands may end up being terribly dull. It is a failed attempt at a great horror game that, with a little more polish and time in the oven, would have truly shined. As it stands, it's just a below-average experience with a few good jumpscares.
At the end of the day, Agatha Christie – Murder on the Orient Express shows one of the world’s greatest authors’ stories at the height of her powers. The carefully interwoven plot, the characters’ well-thought motives, and the renewed presentation of it all by the time you solve the case will undoubtedly delight any mystery-loving follower.
As the fanciful tale starts winding down and the end is in sight, Saltsea Chronicles’ metaphysical mysteries begin taking shape. It is a deeply moving story of love, loss, and understanding that no matter who you are or where you come from, that rooted sense of helping your fellow neighbor will always be there, and it is important to act and cause a positive change in your society.
Chants of Sennaar, once it clicks, undoubtedly makes you feel like a linguist and paleographer with its glyph-based and gesture-implying puzzles. Throughout the course of your playthrough, you will find the spark of languages and their history might make you want to study further your own and our world’s most profound historical writings as you decipher what each language has to offer.
Immortals of Aveum is a high-quality new AAA IP rarely seen in today's gaming landscape. Its relentless combat, strong worldbuilding, and lighthearted narrative offer a unique perspective as a First Person Magic Shooter. Although one of the most mentioned features of the game was that it was being made on Unreal Engine 5, it does not look particularly stunning or next-gen in most areas. But when it does, it has some of the most impressive-looking landscapes in modern gaming.
Agatha Christie – Hercule Poirot: The London Case starts as a slow burn but, through the methodical observations of its titular detective, devolves into a satisfying ending. Avid readers of the Hercule Poirot series are bound to find a pleasant mystery to solve here. To be in the shoes of the detective and sniff out clues in scenes of the crime will satisfy the most eager of fans.
Of course, the most important part of this game is the chaos that unleashes when you get together with friends, be it now through real life or online. Much can be said about the hassle of hauling your belongings and asking help from a company to aid you in such a troubled time. But Moving Out 2‘s incredibly wacky and wild multiplayer adventure as a mover will keep you coming back for one more round.
With elaborate ties to the first game, the wait was worth it. Night School Studio excels in poignant character studies and has proven once more that its creative writing knows no bounds. What OXENFREE II: Lost Signals lacks in the graphics or gameplay department the spectacular sound design and alluring interdimensional narrative more than make up for it.
Playing this particular game feels like being part of a very well-structured high-end space drama. Stakes are raised every so often to keep you engaged. A triumphant return not too often seen on the gaming landscape, The Expanse: A Telltale Series hits the ground running and doesn’t stop. By the time the first episode’s credits are rolling, you’ll be utterly hooked and counting down the days for the next release of this masterful tale.
Sinister secrets begging to be uncovered and pieced together lurk beneath the surface, and with each playthrough, it’s even clearer to see this masterful tale’s endgame. Frank and Drake both have very complicated lives, and unraveling them, connecting the dots, and ultimately understanding their purpose in life is a thoughtful experience to witness.
An ode to the creative spark is a direct correlation to all that is precious in our lives. Architecture, philosophy, and art are just as valuable as the nature that surrounds us, and Viewfinder urges us to look at things from a different perspective and challenge our worldview if it does not fit the task presented. Adapting and astute minds will flourish and appreciate the test that Viewfinder proposes in more ways than one.