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The gaming mechanics of the title are quite fun and when mixed with these powerful vines that the player controls, it does create a sense of gaming wonder. Sure, it does lack replay value but if you want a few hours of escapism, this is definitely the answer!
Game of Thrones The Lost Lords Episode Two of Six is another brilliant addition to the franchise, however my biggest complaint about the game is the release time between episodes. In a perfect world, this game should be released weekly with the final episode being released a week before the official airing of the HBO TV series. The long wait is killing not just me but also other fans from around the world!
Dying Light is a fun game on the PlayStation 4 that definitely borrows heavily from the zombie genre and although the gameplay is not new, the inclusion of Parkour definitely adds a real element of excitement. However the Parkour can also be quite frustrating as a poorly timed jump can lead to your death on more than one occasion.
Although quite a short game, Life is Strange Episode 1 Chrysalis definitely brings a unique freshness to the gaming world and definitely gives a great twist and alternative to the Telltale Games. It has a very likeable character that when combined with the interesting gaming mechanics of time travel, it really makes you question the choices you make for Max that ended with me craving for more.
Elite Dangerous successfully takes the original game and turns it into a true 21st century revolution as you explore the furthermost reaches of the universe as you attempt assassinations, protect spaceports and search for those illusive credits in order to better yourself in this gaming world. The learning curve is a little steep and the controls can be at times fiddle some but overall, the developers of Elite Dangerous should be commended on creating a truly visual, immersive and memorable experience on the PC that not only pays homage to the original but takes it to a new level thanks to the MMO component and inclusion of the Oculus Rift DK2.
Captain Toad is a fun adventure and an enjoyable little break from Mario's typical adventures. Will it hold the world over until the next big Mario game? Definitely. It's easy enough for anyone to complete but complex enough to feel kind of smart playing through it. It's a nice change to Mario gameplay without making it unrecognizable.
Media Molecule created something magical with the original Little Big Planet games and, for the most part, Sumo Digital has managed to retain the essence of what makes this series such a joy to play. However, in some departments this doesn't feel quite like a fully fledged Little Big Planet entry, even with the jump to current gen consoles.
Forza Horizon 2 Storm Island is easily the best DLC of the year because of the amount of content jam packed into this release. However rather than sitting on their laurels, Playground Games have created new events and updated the graphics engine to create some spectacular weather effects and gameplay tweaks. Add in some difficult bucket list challenges, new online features and a new twist to racing thanks to the harshness of Storm Island and this DLC is definitely a must have additional to any Forza Horizon 2 fan.
I love the new weapons, gear and areas in Destiny the Dark Below but was not a big fan of starting that grind again in terms of my gear… but damn, they've got me hooked again!
The Crew is a very ambitious game that did suffer from day one release issues. Thankfully most have been patched but there are still a few graphical issues and gameplay nuances that can cause controller rage. Although the story is relatively forgettable, I actually did enjoy driving around American in its "free mode" and when engaged in missions, some were extremely difficult due to the control mechanics and insane difficultly of the AI. Nonetheless, it's an interesting racer that is probably a little too ambitious for most but definitely recommended for those not time poor!
Telltale's Game of Thrones Episode 1: Iron from Ice is another in-depth game of storytelling that successfully links to the TV series. By giving gamers access to the Forrester clan, it helps expand the Game of Thrones universe without impeding on the current story. Although it does suffer from some graphical issues and at times clunky gameplay, the powerful story and characters far outweighs these slight inconsistencies that leaves the density of the player in their hands of whether House Forrester will survive or perish!
Ask me what the best experience is on the Wii U and I would tell you Smash Bros. in a heartbeat. After a long winter of Nintendo titles that didn't quite hit the high note that people expected, Smash Bros. makes up for any shortcomings Nintendo has had in recent years. You don't even have to be a fan of fighting games to love Super Smash Bros. because it's a genre of its own. Its Nintendo's finest hour and I'll still be enjoying this game long after %100 completion.
Never Alone is beautifully presented on the Xbox One and successfully tells the story of the Iñupiat people through the eyes of Nuna and her pet fox. Sure, it may not be the most original title with its gameplay but its captivating characters and information create a thoroughly enjoyable experience on the Xbox One about a world encompassed by a never ending blizzard with magical spirit characters.
Shaking up the formula somewhat whilst still ensuring that longtime fans and purists are catered for, Lucid Games have done the unfathomable and created a game that betters the already stellar efforts of Bizarre Creations. The gameplay additions work tremendously well and also serve to keep players on their toes by demanding that they change their tactics in accordance with the context of a particular stage.
It's a brilliant, entertaining adventure that is worth repeating over and over again, you'll never get tired of chasing the American Dream in Los Santos.
Fantasia Music Evolved is a very interesting concept from Harmonix that actually works quite well on the Kinect 2 and you do feel like a magical conductor as you manipulate the music with your gestures. The only let down with the game is that once you have finished it a few times and tried to collect all the achievements and aimed for the high score, the replay value does become a little stagnant.
With 1080p graphics running at 60 frames per second, WWE 2K15 is easily the best looking game from the series and although the core mechanics have been changed for the better, the lack of the customisation options and reduced gaming modes is a little frustrating. Nonetheless, the fighting works well and you can quite easily get lost in the MyCareer Mode. With quick matches to online modes, the developers have definitely take the series in a better direction but there was a slight cost to some of the mechanics.
Rocksmith 2014 Edition is definitely a more streamlined game on the PlayStation 4 that has been fine-tuned for this console. It's definitely faster and a more flawless experience than previous instalments and I love the fact that you can share your music experience with the world. It features a great tracklist and more importantly, you can access your previously owned DLC as you attempt to be the best damn guitar player possible. However patience is the key to success with Rocksmith!
If you're a fan of the previous LEGO Batman games or you love DC Comics, than I could happily recommend LEGO Batman 3 Beyond Gotham to you. As mentioned time and time again, it is a LEGO game that at times can become a little repetitive but TT Games have tried to keep it fresh and unique by adding new gaming mechanics into the title. It also has over 150 characters to unlock (yes I'm serious) that also increases the replay value but best of all, it feels like a DC Comics game and that my friends is where LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham succeeds!
With the mantra 'the pitch is ours', PES 15 believes that it has done enough to usurp the title from the FIFA franchise. While PES 15 has improved on a number of features, there are some issues that dampened my experience. Pro Evolution Soccer 15 might have played well, but FIFA definitely still owns the pitch.