Goomba Stomp
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Persona 5 is a great game that sets a high bar with its amazing visuals, audio, gameplay, and story. It is a definitive purchase for anyone who finds themselves to be a fan of role-playing games, Japanese or otherwise.
Wonder Boy: The Dragon’s Trap sets the standard for remakes in the future. Lizard Cube has done a fantastic job in creating an imaginative world that still caters to fans of the original, as neither party has to make compromises here. The audio and visual switching mechanic works flawlessly and is easily the most exciting part about this title. While some of the game’s mechanics may seem dated due to the original title's age, it’s the gorgeous world and satisfying gameplay that make this game an easy recommendation.
A terrible platformer, only redeemed by the occasional bit of challenge, and a decent soundtrack.
A beautiful game with a fitting soundtrack, Night in the Woods pleases with its writing but fails in everything else with artificial choices, pacing problems, and an ending that doesn't go with the tone set in the beginning.
What Remains of Edith Finch evolves the walking simulator in a way that shows a new aspect of what gaming is capable of, both in terms of immersion and storytelling. This is the game.
Despite some relatively minor blemishes, Shovel Knight: Specter of Torment is an innovative and satisfying experience I would recommend to any fan of 2D platformers or retro games.
Though the main campaign is a little on the easy side, the continuous ability-switching, along with increasingly complex level design, provides a surprising sense of progression and expansiveness. As a result, 'Bye-Bye BoxBoy!' caps off HAL Laboratory’s puzzle platforming trilogy at a high point.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe can hardly be called a mere re-release. The substantial amount of additional content coupled with the obvious superiority of the Switch creates a brand new experience almost worthy of being called its own game. With a versatility that’s unmatched by any other entry in the series, this game is a must-buy for newcomers and veterans alike.
Psychologically scary as it plays on the fears from your childhood. Visually beautifully, wonderful use of music and sounds, with a clever message lurking within it. Gentle, but sometimes tricky puzzles, though the lack of variety of puzzles means gameplay doesn't remain challenging throughout the game. However, a beautifully crafted game which doesn't rely on thrills and gore to create horror.
Even with its flaws, World to the West is a fun adventure game that has plenty of clever moments. The characters are enjoyable all the way through, the environments are a joy to look at, and the puzzles are a blast to solve. Each of the main characters' unique abilities are used to their fullest potential as well, meaning that there is enjoyment to be had with each one. It’s just a shame that the combat is only fun with one of them. Fans of classic Zelda titles will not be disappointed, however, as this world is certainly worth exploring.
NBA Playgrounds takes inspired elements from its predecessors and re-purposes them for the current generation. While it's far from perfect, the game's mechanical inconsistencies are easily outshined by its simplicity and precision. Not as beginner-friendly as expected, but addicting fun for the dedicated player.
A beautiful fighting game with an incredible depth to the mechanics. Stylish, compelling, and above all fun, 'Guilty Gear Xrd REV 2' hits all the right marks. The depth of the content and tutorials allow both seasoned fighting game veterans and those completely new to the genre to dive in to the world of Guilty Gear.
It's hard not to think of Tacoma as a game or even a narrative piece, but the truth is that Tacoma is an interactive experience. It might not reward you in the same ways as other games, or books, or even plays. It's a different kind of medium, where you get out of it what you put into it. I say play Tacoma, it might not tickle you in the same way it does me, but if you enjoy Sci-Fi and digging through people's personal lives, you'll dig Tacoma.
A valiant attempt at the 'Dark Souls' formula, but ultimately fails to be anything but references to better games.
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia brings a lesser known chapter in the franchise's history to the forefront. Its compelling gameplay, top notch presentation, and captivating cast of characters make it one of the best entries in the 27-year-old franchise.
Despite its clever concept, quality combat, enjoyable ARPG gameplay, and attractive art direction, Ever Oasis gets buried beneath a series of small but grating missteps. Another engaging adventure on the 3DS, but one that'll quickly be lost to the sands of time.
If you're a hardcore Strategy-RPG fan and have a Switch, Disgaea 5 Complete is a godsend. The amount of content here is incredible and frankly a bit intimidating. The depth series veterans cut their teeth on is fully intact, and the game works perfectly as a portable experience. This is immediately one of the strongest titles for the Switch and sets the standard for what third party support for the system should look like going forward.
While it certainly has its fair share of flaws, ARMS absolutely nails the fun-factor. It's a simple game that offers so much depth for players willing to put in the work, and while the content is fairly limited, there is enough for both casual and hardcore audiences.
It's a shame that Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped is such a dreadful experience because the first two games in this collection are absolute gold. Vicarious Visions has succeeded in making Crash look completely contemporary, however, the level design and structure has remained unchanged. This is the best way to introduce new gamers to the orange marsupial, however, it's his existing fans that will enjoy it the most.
There’s no doubt that the title has a public who loves everything about it, but those expecting something akin to a broader Stardew Valley will be deeply disappointed.