Cubed3's Reviews
At the end of the experience, it's one that wouldn't be worth missing, but getting to that point could be disappointing more than inspiring.
Game of Thrones: Episode Five - A Nest of Vipers is possibly the weakest episode thus far. Although there are some fantastic moments, it suffers at points where it feels some of the progression of the story from previous episodes took a step backwards. This, in combination with the limited gameplay segments, makes for a disappointing entry in the series.
From the gate it was clear that Life is Strange was a title to keep an eye on. It's now evolved into an experience over a million players are constantly on the edge of their seats to continue, and is poised to become one they'll likely never forget. Even a seemingly shorter, more linear episode like this one shines in all the right places; it's a visual novel with a choose-your-own-adventure twist in which choices matter, and consequences are finally catching up like the dark cyclone ever hurdling toward Arcadia Bay.
Adventures of Pip is the good kind of nostalgia: it doesn't simply mimic the production values of vintage games, nor does it feel the need to constantly allude to their existence. Instead, it revives the design philosophies that made those old titles so inspiring. The result may not be the most forward-thinking game ever produced, but it also doesn't need to be. For anyone looking for a light-hearted platformer with a firm understanding of its own mechanics, Adventures of Pip is the best choice available since Shovel Knight.
This is definitely a series that has more mileage in it, for sure, and it is hopeful that Rocksteady decides that they do indeed have something to add in the future, for it would be a shame if this was the end of what has been a great ride.
Atlus doesn't reinvent the Etrian Odyssey wheel with 2 Untold, but it does build on what made the first release so much fun, without making any readily apparent sacrifices. It features the original Etrian Odyssey 2, as well as a new story-based campaign, successfully separating itself from both the first Untold and the original sequel. While The Fafnir Knight could benefit from more inspired UI elements (especially in building the city and managing the restaurant) and maybe a little more life regarding the characters and NPCs, it's clear that this is a solid entry in a unique RPG franchise, and fans and newcomers alike are going to have a lot of fun with it.
Of all the Deception series, Deception IV: The Nightmare Princess is the complete package that has it all. It's great for neophytes since it has an adequate tutorial and offers an unbelievably wide breadth of what the series is all about, and long-time fans will be satisfied by the new twists on the old formula.
Toxic Games' influences are clear, and in a way Q.U.B.E. Director's Cut can be seen as a weird expansion to Portal, if eyes are squinting. A little glitchy at times, and not the most fulfilling puzzle adventure, but fairly solid and it does have fleeting moments of originality. One thing missing that was a key component to the success of Portal is charm and wit; this game can be very dull because of how sterile and desolate the setting is and how dry the story can be. There's not much in terms of levity or heart, making it ultimately feel forgettable.
Bladestorm: Nightmare is thoroughly enjoyable throughout. From its awful voices to its crazy fantasy mode about fighting dragons, or its more down to earth medieval tale, the game really tries to make up for any shortcomings the original release had. The updated visuals are very good, even with its downfalls, and the gameplay, once it's been deciphered, is fun. All in all, it's a great title for fans of the Warriors franchises, but be prepared for the differences and enjoy the new experience. Here is hoping for a sequel!
J-Stars Victory Vs+ is an exceedingly hard game to effectively score. It's aimed at a very specific fanbase, and those not familiar with at least a few anime or manga series will find little to catch their interest here. The target audience will find fanservice through and through, and this will be an instant buy regardless of reviews or scores. For those on the fence it's worth the price for the experience alone, and to help support more of these titles being released outside of Japan. While J-Stars may be fundamentally flawed in many ways, it offers something many fans never imagined they would get to experience, and it has some truly great moments.
The Escapists fills a niche that few developers dare to tread: a strategy title that demands planning and focus, leaving no room for failure and very limited handholding. Such restrictions limit the overall appeal, but those brave enough to venture into Mouldy Toof Studios' and Team17's latest release on PlayStation 4 will find buckets of charm and invention to reward their patience, as well as plenty of value for money.
Tembo the Badass Elephant's ride may be a very short one, but it is undeniably a high quality romp. The game has very high highs with very few low points and not a single bit of filler or wasted moments. Tembo can almost be too lean by being so utterly focused in upping the challenge, though. The design and aesthetics are 100% on the mark and it is curious that Game Freak doesn't do more original titles like this as often, since it is clearly very good at it. Game Freak is so much more than just Pokémon and Tembo the Badass Elephant proves it.
While there's a slight stumble with regards to story progression, for the most parts it's a great success and the fact that it's all the result of one man's labour of love makes it all the more impressive. Occasionally, modern day tributes miss the mark and lack some of the heart that made the inspiration so great but it's safe to say that Thomas Happ has totally nailed the Metroid vibe with Axiom Verge.
A delightful knitted theme makes Yoshi's Woolly Worlda true joy to play, as everything from Yoshi and his various abilities, to the landscapes and elemental hazards, is beautifully rendered. The accessible gameplay ensures that such a visually delightful title can be experienced by as many people as possible, while the hidden collectibles and special stages more than make up for it and will test the reflexes of many gamers. It's easy to recommend this game to anyone who is endeared by its presentation and enjoys 2D platformers, as everyone has the autonomy to tailor the experience to his or her own skill set.
Never Alone is close to being an OK game. It has a lot going for it with its gorgeous aesthetics and authentic presentation. It even has a couch co-op mode, and the few times the game does have things to do in it, there is some legitimate involvement. Too bad these moments are too far apart, and the more vulgar qualities of Never Alone are the most apparent, such as the buggy AI, barren level design and lacking gameplay.
Scram Kitty DX's twist on the shooter-platformer is one that requires perseverance. Its unconventional method of manoeuvrability has the power to turn away most people that pick up a pad to give it a go, but it makes the case for the perfect example of a game that allows the rewards to be reaped if taken the time to be mastered.
This is a title for anyone who has ever looked at the ocean or the night sky and been stunned by the unfathomable vastness of the universe and the mystery of the human condition. Hopefully, that's everyone.
There's a good reason why a lot of these older games are commonly referred to as 'classics' and even a modern day re-rub replicating the timeless gameplay has the ability to evoke memories of a misspent youth shovelling coins into an arcade cabinet. Ultratron is an addictive little blast that does justice to Eugene Jarvis's original vision.
LEGO games may very well be formulaic, but the old adage of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it" applies very aptly here. There is the same comedy and parody of the source material as with many of the other releases, which while is done to make the game more family friendly, has the added benefit of resulting in some genuinely funny moments. The games are simple and fun to play for audiences of all ages and sizes; for fans of Jurassic Park or the LEGO games in general, LEGO Jurassic World is a must pick up.
Tales from the Borderlands: Episode Three - Catch a Ride on PlayStation 4 is easily the best episode to date in a series that is already full of fantastic chapters. Brimming with the trademark stellar storytelling and character development that made Telltale what it is today, Catch a Ride continues to develop the story in original and unpredictable ways, delivering an all round superb experience.