GameWatcher
HomepageGameWatcher's Reviews
Defunct combines speed and exploration in a package that's simplistic but engaging. The gravity functions lack a variety of uses but they're necessary in nearly every situation, and there's so many ways to engage with the game the way you want. It doesn't have all of its screws tightened, but what's there is packed with replay value.
Bombshell isn't the worst game I've ever played, but it's among the most dull and uninteresting. From its cheesy, late-90s alien blasting plot to its absolutely repetitive action, it's tough to pull out any redeeming qualities. Even assuming its bevy of technical issues get ironed out, this one still isn't worth your time.
Lara's greatest adventure yet
As a RTS Homeworld: Deserts Of Kharak doesn't actually have much new, but it's still one of the better releases for the genre in a long time. In many ways it feels like a modern Westwood classic, but most importantly it evokes the same feelings of complex strategy that you might have had when playing the original Homeworld games.
A great way to play one of the weakest entries in the classic Resident Evil canon
For those looking for something unique and original, Tharsis definitely offers that up in spades. It's not a game that can be played for hours on end, but you'll certainly return to it time and again should you fall for its clever blend of roguelike and strategy board games.
Dragon's Dogma is a great game that feels unique among fantasy RPGs thanks to its blend of mechanics and influences. Its flaws - repetitive quests and a somewhat aimless structure - don't block out its enormous strengths. Its core combat is great, and fighting the game's array of giant beasts is some of the most fun I've ever had in an RPG. And this PC version is absolutely the best way to play it.
Although perceptibly divisive in execution and theme, it becomes difficult to imagine an individual that would experience That Dragon, Cancer and not feel richer and better off for having been immersed in its bittersweet storytelling as the end credits roll. While some might be understandably put off by the slim pickings of traditional genre fare on offer here, That Dragon, Cancer staunchly remains as an experience that everybody should let into their lives regardless.
Assassin's Creed Chronicles: India is a stealth game with Assassin's Creed adornment. Its story barely invites you to understand more about Arbaaz Mir and Climax Studios completely fails at telling one, but if you are desperate for a stealth game, you will be challenged and fairly compensated for your time and money.
Blood and Gold is a mess of ideas that feels half-finished.
FIVE, at its core, is a competent action RPG with fun abilities and some original ideas. But with achingly slow opening hours, limited character progression, loads of meaningless loot, and an utter lack of difficulty, its appeal is limited.
Not as clever as the Devil
HellDivers is one of the best multiplayer games of the year. We've anxiously awaited the Steam version, and it delivers every bit of the experience that we've jealously spied over the shoulders of Playstation players for months now. Factoring in the excellent and unique gameplay, the beautiful and variable graphics and environments, the variety of enemy types, the hilarious satire, and the perfect sound, we happily recommend you pick this one up.
Just don't call it "Army Men"
Forget Shoot 'em ups. We need more Blow 'em ups
Thea: The Awakening is something of a surprise, really. From an unknown indie developer comes a game that blends RPG and strategy together very well, in a fashion that means one doesn't dilute the strengths of the other. It is complex, sure, and perhaps that will be off-putting for as many as it will be endearing for, but there's an original game here - one that ought to appeal to fans of both spectrum of genres.
There are bugs in the game that make it feel frustrating and unfinished. At many points I felt like I was fighting the game simply to play it, and while there's tons of promise, the current product just doesn't feel worth the effort it takes to play.
Syndicate is another Assassin's Creed. Its characters and setting are likeable, it's not a technical mess, and it has some fun new features, which certainly puts it in the upper tier of the franchise since Brotherhood. This is another pseudo-historical playground, another set of Templars to stab, and another checklist of collectables to grab. It's a solid entry in a series that's been far too prolific, and while Syndicate is good, it's tough to be excited about it.
Nevertheless it can't be denied that Battlefront is quite simply a fun multiplayer game that utilises the license very well. And in the four years since Kinect Star Wars that's all I ever wanted.
Pretty soon you're not just a part of the story, you're the storyteller. Then you realize that not all stories have happy endings, and not all heroes make it unscathed through their hero's journey.