GameSpew's Reviews
Double Dragon is back, and it looks better than ever. Good looks and more freedom when it comes to movement doesn't translate to a game that's more fun to play, however, with the combat of Double Dragon Revive feeling rather clunky. And so, while it isn't a bad game by any means, it's simply not as enjoyable as it should be.
Set after the events of Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, this latest game set in the Chicken Run universe lets you put together your own team and attempt to rescue yet more chickens from a variety of locations. The result is a simple stealth game with one or two frustrations, but thanks to its charming animation and impressive voice cast, franchise fans will likely enjoy it quite a lot.
Featuring 12 levels over three distinct themes, Escape Simulator 2 has plenty of content at launch, with every level being brilliantly designed and filled with clever, challenging puzzles. For those who want more, there's a level designer and the option to play community-created levels, so there's potentially endless content here. A bargain for £14.99/$19.99.
If you can't resist feeding some coins into a Fast & Furious: Arcade machine whenever you visit an arcade, you might appreciate being able to play it at home in the form of Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition. For most, though, this barebones port will feel too light on content to feel worthwhile.
While the remake of the original The House of the Dead proved to be a fairly entertaining jaunt, this update of the sequel inexplicably comes off far worse. From horrible controls to poor visuals that are simply too dark at times, it's a big disappointment. Still, it's the only way to play this arcade classic on modern consoles, and it boasts some new modes and features.
There's a lot of content in Hot Wheels Let's Race: Ultimate Speed, and there's no doubt that young fans of the Netflix show it's based on will enjoy the package here. But considering the poor handling and a number of other frustrations, it's hard to fully recommend this game, particularly when the excellent Hot Wheels Unleashed series exists.
Tormented Souls 2, like its predecessor, offers some solid survival horror action inspired by classics of the genre. Some might find dealing with or avoiding enemies a bit frustrating at times though, and a number of its puzzles could be considered a little too obtuse for comfort.
Improved over its predecessor in just about every way, PowerWash Simulator 2 is the ultimate in cleaning sims. New locations, new tools and a brand new home hub make washing away dirt and grime more enjoyable than ever, and while there's the occasional grumble, it's not enough to spoil the zen-like nature of virtual powerwashing.
The first brand new Katamari game in years, Once Upon a Katamari doesn't disappoint. While it suffers from the same issues the series always has, like wonky controls and camera, there's no denying that it's as fun as ever to play. There's nothing else like it, and we'll never grow tired of the utter weirdness of rolling up items with a special ball.
Plants vs Zombies Replanted is the same game you know and love, albeit with a shiny new veneer. Some games don't get old, and providing you're in the mood for something laid-back and casual, protecting your garden from zeds is as much fun as it's ever been.
A new Ninja Gaiden for a new generation, Ninja Gaiden 4 features combat that's faster-paced and more intense than ever before. It's the most accessible, too, thanks to a range of difficulty levels and assists. It's just a shame that its new protagonist isn't a little more likeable.
Halls of Torment combines the character-building, loot and atmosphere of Diablo with the conciseness and pick-up-and-play nature of the Survivors-like genre to create an experience like no other. You might encounter the odd minor frustration while playing, but this is very easy to recommend.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2 has a wealth of issues, from an open world that feels wasted to combat that feels scrappy throughout. Thanks to a gripping narrative that you can shape with your actions, however, you'll likely still enjoy your time spent sucking blood across Seattle.
A gorgeous adventure that is as surprising as it is beautiful, Keeper is far more than the game about a sentient lighthouse that it presents itself as. Filled with engaging puzzles, mesmerising scenery and a visual story to make you think, Keeper is well worth taking the time to complete.
Feeling like a combination of Vampire Survivors and Peggle, BALL x PIT is a unique roguelike that we simply can't get enough of. It's tough, and death can come quite easily, but that just makes us want to jump in again and again.
Battlefield is back. While the single-player campaign of Battlefield 6 has its moments, it's pretty mediocre on the whole. Thankfully the game's extensive multiplayer offerings make up for it. The action here is fast-paced and wonderfully intense, making each match rewarding whether you win or lose. Some maps could do with some tweaks, but other than that there's not much to complain about.
A trashy, retro-styled survival horror, The Lacerator stands out due to the fact that it forces you to play on even if you lose a limb. It's quite simple and rather short, but numerous routes and endings will entice you to play through it multiple times.
With its stunning visuals, beautiful soundtrack and gratifying gameplay, Absolum will draw you in from the outset. And thanks to its roguelike elements it has plenty of longevity and depth. One of the best games of 2025, this is a must-play whether you're a fan of beat 'em ups or roguelikes.
Dicealot is simple to get the hang of, but has a lot of depth for those who want to master it. This dice-based roguelike game will certainly have you coming back for a second or third game, but I'm just not sure if there's enough here to keep you hooked for weeks to come.
More than a straightforward remaster or remake, Yooka-Replaylee reimagines the original game, adding new challenges and gameplay elements while tweaking and improving others. Ultimately, it's a much-improved experience, with its worlds densely packed with things to do and its gameplay finely-tuned. This is easily one of the best 3D platformers currently available.