The Outerhaven Productions
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When I get a WayForward Technologies game in my hands, I usually know I'm in for a treat. Except this time around I was really disappointed with what they had to offer. A generic Metroidvania-styled game, based on the failed Mummy reboot and completely devoid of any enjoyment. The gameplay is boring, the story is uninspiring and for the first time ever, I had to force myself to complete a WayForward title.
Despite the odd lull in gameplay, repetitive objective or feeling as though there's too much scale weighing you down – Shadow of War is completely inspirational in the way it's attempting to further narrative storytelling in videogames. The overarching storyline involving Talion is an engrossing one yet that almost becomes a sub-plot in itself – second to the mini meta-narratives you'll create amongst the factions of Orcs and Warchiefs you meet along the way. The voice acting and motion capture performances are really solid and the presentation is glossy and big-budget; it's as close to actually being in Middle-Earth as you're ever going to get. I'm about as swept up in this game as a Drake riding off into a fiery sunset; fantastic.
The Evil Within 2 does a good job of finishing the original story. Seb gets reunited with his daughter and overcomes his guilt. That said, the game revisits multiple events from the first game. This assumes you've played it and if not, you're left following scraps of content from the game. Outside of the story, the game is quite different from the first. It's a good follow-up, even if the horror takes a back seat to the action. Thankfully the game also addresses the performance issues from the first game and it runs like a champ (if you have the hardware). A solid entry for those new to the survival horror genre. While veterans may be a bit disappointed as the game puts more focus on combat than providing the scares. Still, fans of the first game will eat this up and come back for seconds.
Overall, I'm more than happy with LNM:TVG.
While not as good as the season premiere, Batman: The Enemy Within - Episode 2 - The Pact brings some very interesting storylines and characterizations to the forefront, and puts both Batman and Bruce Wayne into some very interesting positions.
Marvel vs Capcom Infinite tried so hard to be Marvel vs Capcom 2, one of the best entries into the franchise, but ends up falling short in terms of roster, character depth and gameplay. A lot of interference by Marvel's overlord: The Mouse; leading to a lot of fan favorites and X-Men characters being left out of the line up. The story, for what it is, isn't anything near the depth and interest that other games like Tekken 7 and Injustice 2 have done this year. Capcom was once the innovator and leading name in fighting games. While the Fighting Game Community might get some mileage out of the title, the casual player has already moved onto the game that does the Marvel vs Capcom formula right: Dragon Ball FighterZ
I'm glad that Battle Chasers: Nightwar was finally released, despite never being on my radar. This title is a breath of fresh air with several innovative battle mechanics, enjoyable characters and a return to my beloved turn-based gaming. The story could have been better, but for those looking for more Battle Chasers, you're going to be in love with it.
Ruiner is a fast-paced, hectic game of survival, cast in a cyberpunk filled future. A brilliant twin-stick shooter that is sadly riddled with control issues. Yet so full of fantastic artistic stylization, extremely pleasing visual and some pretty technical tricks. Definitely a good strong showing for Polish developer Reikon Games.
Agents of Mayhem should be a good game, however it seems like Deep Silver wanted to do another Saints Row game and did things that way instead. Unlike when Capcom did this with Resident Evil and created the great Devil May Cry series, Deep Silver just made a Saints Row game with a different label on it. You'd think that after so many games in that series that we would get something different, but we didn't.
Currently, I'm unconvinced by Pro Evolution Soccer 2018. It has all the trademarks of what a great footballing game should be, but sloppy presentation, jerky in-game transitions, poor commentary and a lack of exciting multiplayer modes leave this one still trailing FIFA's dust.
Pokken Tournament DX is definitely worth the upgrade. The game has changed just enough to stay fresh and the five new characters, along with the Popplio and Litten assists that were introduced, freshen the game up enough to matter in the long run. Despite the changes, everything is familiar to old players, and while Pokken DX isn't all that welcoming to newcomers, those who put the time into the game will definitely find a wealth of enjoyment. Pokken Tournament DX is a game that deserves way more than what it got in terms of support, and hopefully, on the Switch, it will get it.
In the end, Project CARS 2 takes everything that Slightly Mad Studios did for the original game, polishes it up and puts out perhaps the best racing title available on the PlayStation 4. Tons of cars, more tracks than you can shake a stick at, a full-fledged career mode and online options. Better controls, fantastic visuals, and PlayStation 4 Pro support. Yes, there are some rough areas and the sound isn't as good as I would have liked. Still, in the end, Project CARS 2 is an enjoyable and fantastic effort that I'm sure PlayStation 4 racing fans are going to enjoy.
Sine Mora EX isn't actually the shining beacon that all SHMUP's should inspire to be, but that game is still a fantastic entry. But for the price, exceptionally replay value and fantastic visuals, you definitely can't go wrong snagging up the title for a weekend venture. A fantastic skyward entry that both novices to the genre and grizzled SHMUP vets can both enjoy.
With tight and brilliant gameplay, fun scenes featuring both Mario and Rabbids characters, a very detailed world, and challenges that'll keep you coming back, Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is one of the best games on the Nintendo Switch.
Overall, episode 1 of Life is Strange: Before the Storm isn't the strongest entry in the saga – but it's far too early to judge. I'm hoping centering the story on Chloe isn't a poor choice on Deck Nine's behalf, there must be a story to tell without meandering around old locations and looking at random objects strewn across the floor. They've established some great roots here, now they must build on them to take gamers on an emotional rollercoaster.
Madden NFL 18 is near perfection, and I couldn't be happier to continue playing this game.
Nihon Falcom & Nippon Ichi Software has crafted yet another fantastic entry in the Ys series. The same great gameplay and storytelling elements that have become synonymous with the series, along with exceptional graphics. Sure, the top-down view has been replaced but the new 3D graphics help brings the world to life and I enjoyed the voice lines. Combine that with some enjoyable character development and a game that spans over 40+ hour and you got a game that you won't want to put down for a while.
While it might not reach the emotional height's of Nathan Drake's last adventure, The Lost Legacy is a welcome addition to the franchise. It features a compelling story and wonderful cast of characters, illustrating the point that this franchise is far from over. And as always, the visuals Naughty Dog is able to get out of a standard PS4 never cease to amaze.
Mages of Mystralia is not without its shortcomings, but its gameplay is too fun not to recommend. Through the use of an insanely clever system of spell-crafting, there's just the right amount of challenge in combat and puzzle-solving to be had. By pairing a lighthearted adventure with solid gameplay mechanics, there's something here for everyone.
This is what a remake should be.