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KickBeat: Special Edition is a solid enough game, but it never does anything beyond its initial concept to make it feel unique. Decent presentation and a comical plot help to balance out boring gameplay and a disappointing soundtrack, culminating in a release that neither looks good nor bad on the dancefloor.
Considering that EA Sports took an extra year to craft NHL 15, the wealth of missing features here is inexcusable. The solid, exhilarating gameplay is still present, and feels better than it has in a couple of years, but the astounding absence of features and game modes overshadows everything that the game does right. . . . Put simply, this is not a complete game.
Flockers is a fun Lemmings throwback that provides a decent challenge. While the trial and error heavy gameplay will certainly put some off, those willing to engage their brains and reflexes will have a good time herding their flock through some downright dastardly levels – even if the experience is marred with occasional control niggles. Yes, the package is a little bit bare bones, and the gameplay never really mixes things up too much – but at this price, it isn't something that you can really bleat about.
Destiny's budget was out of this world, and it's there for all to see in the finished product. Bungie's smash hit isn't the gameplay revolution that some wanted, but its accessible RPG systems, sublime gunplay, and incredible presentation over all aspects of the release elevate it beyond some of the very best shooters on the market. And although its flaws keep it from becoming legend, group together with friends, and you'll partake in an intergalactic experience that's a beacon of light in an increasingly darkening genre.
Even without the ability to install mods and play on infinite worlds propped up by dedicated servers, Minecraft: PlayStation 4 Edition is still a strong addition to your next-gen library. The improved visuals and larger settings alone make for a significantly better experience than is currently available on older consoles. Granted, the title's not to everyone's tastes, but there's a reason that it's dug a path into the hearts of millions of players since its initial release in 2011 – and you'll probably have an inkling of whether you're a fan by now.
The result is a package that settles for a par score – nothing less and nothing more.
Last Tinker: City of Colors is a solid platformer that fans of the genre will certainly enjoy, although the issues are hard to ignore. An incredibly erratic framerate, little replay value, and the lack of any real challenge throw a few wrenches in the gears, but overall, it's not a particularly bad game, even if you'll never look back once the adventure is over.
The best thing that can be said about Madden NFL 15 is that it works properly, and that it's made some notable, positive changes to defence and play calling that really improve the whole experience. It's no secret that in previous years, the changes were subtle and lacking, making it fantastic to see the franchise finally evolve in a meaningful manner, with dramatic camera angles and intense defensive battles bringing the fun back. It's Madden season once again, and there is now a reason to celebrate.
Even though Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate is buried in some slightly lacklustre content, you're definitely getting your money's worth with this shockingly robust package. The franchise's seemingly simplistic alterations to the Warriors formula hide some extraordinary depth, and the gigantic character roster will be enough to send most fans into a daze. Even if you're new to Tecmo Koei's divisive software, this may be a perfect starting point thanks to its standalone, over the top story – just try not to burn yourself out before the next inevitable release.
Velocity 2X is everything that a game should be. Requiring skill and dedication, it's been built for core gamers ready to challenge themselves; for people who desperately miss the likes of Contra and R-Type. Don't be fooled, though, this isn't a throwback or even a celebration – this is a modern game done right, and the new standard for which indies have to aim on PlayStation.
Addictive, deep, and just a little bit crazy, Disgaea 4: A Promise Revisited is the perfect companion for someone looking for some on-the-move RPG greatness. Few people are ever going to see it all — a fact made truer by the often vague introduction of features — but what they do see is going to knock them over. Either that, or give them a very real addiction to sardines.
Plants vs. Zombies: Garden Warfare stays true to its roots, while at the same time branching out to new audiences by switching up the franchise's familiar format a little. The gameplay is rock solid, the music and visuals are adorable, and, while the release's multiplayer focus won't appeal to everyone, it's a finely pruned package overall. PopCap deserves credit for taking an existing concept, and making it blossom all over again.
inFAMOUS: First Light is never going to set the world alight, but if you've been gagging for more of Sucker Punch's superhero series, then it will fill that hole until a full sequel charges onto store shelves. Fetch's fast-paced take on the neon power set makes her an entertaining protagonist to play as – especially in the frantic Battle Arenas. In many ways, this represents the brand stripped back to its very basics – and you'll need to decide whether that's enough for you.
All in all, whether you're new to the franchise or not, the abandoned underground has never looked this inviting.
Despite its seemingly vanilla exterior, CounterSpy is a remarkably ambitious title. It makes an admirable attempt at creating a new kind of 2D stealth game, but unfortunately the results just aren't particularly compelling. While its presentation is dapper and divine, its gameplay is clunky, and the whole experience gets tiresome very quickly.
Diablo III: Reaper of Souls - Ultimate Evil Edition still has flaws – a boneheaded narrative, minor framerate hiccups, and an inventory system that lacks the elegance of its PC counterpart – but these small niggles fail to dent what is an otherwise exceptional experience. It's a bit mindless, yes, but collecting loot and slaying enemies is seldom as sweet as it is here. Quite simply, this is an excellent action RPG.
Through the three or so hours that it takes to complete Hohokum, you'll almost certainly fall in love with its impeccable art direction and genius audio pairing. Sadly, in the gameplay realm, this wriggle-'em-up doesn't really have enough direction to make it truly engaging. The title's at its best when you meander through its oversaturated scenes without purpose, but that means that it's not recommended for everyone.
Surgeon Simulator: Anniversary Edition's concept will almost certainly be lost on a few, but if you play with a combination of patience and trial and error, then you'll often yield positive results. The clunky controls are unforgivable, but its humorous attitude towards surgery is endearing, creating an experience that's as weird as it is funny. This isn't a game for perfectionists looking for a true simulation of a busy A&E department: it's more like a training ground for psychopaths looking to learn the ropes, shave a few eyebrows, and play with lasers.
VooFoo can chalk this down as another successful adaptation, as Pure Pool proves to be an enjoyable and astoundingly well presented interpretation of arguably the greatest pub pastime. The tutorials and help sections should get newcomers up to speed, while the 'Pro' difficulty will definitely test veterans. There are a few difficulty issues which prevent it from hitting a perfect break, but the stripped back interface and immersive atmosphere mean that it certainly won't be snookering you tonight.
As this is an indie title closely aligned with Sony's PlayStation Plus programme, Road Not Taken has its work cut out right from the very start of its arduous journey. Taken on its own merits, however, it offers an enjoyable ride for the five to ten hours that it lasts. Niggling performance issues aside, it's hard not to enjoy being the star of your very own fairy tale world – even if that fictional realm has a particularly odd approach to infant safety.