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If you're looking for a relaxing game and don't mind Critter cafés simple approach, then you will get some mild enjoyment out of this sim/management experience. However, if you're after something with deeper gameplay or a more engaging story, you might find yourself wanting more.
X-Out: Resurfaced is a quality remake of a shoot 'em up originally released for the Commodore 64. The original's underwater setting and submarine customization options are now supported by improved graphics, UI fixes, and a co-op mode that should help it appeal to more than just those seeking their retro fix.
There's a lot of diversity throughout the arcade fighter Big Helmet Heroes, and it's really easy to pick up and get better at. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, if you like side-scrolling beat-'em-ups, I would definitely recommend it for single and two-player co-op fun.
Dreamless does what it should to get the player from the beginning to the end, but it very nearly actually put me to sleep playing it. If you really want a horror game, keep looking.
ROBOBEAT combines first-person shooters with rhythm gameplay, but never really defines its reason for doing so. Although the action does become engaging once you get the hang of it, awkward controls and drab level design will chase most dancers off the floor before the party can really kick in.
Ravenswatch combines cool characters and satisfying combat with challenging boss fights to provide a unique roguelite outing. The dark tone and twist on classic characters adds value and replayability; if only it had local co-op!
The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II does a good job of optimizing combat and dungeon exploration, and the new features and tweaks likely will appeal to series fans. Its slow story and propensity to disrupt its own momentum, however, make this a slight downgrade from the previous game, and a middling entry in the series.
As far as retro puzzle/platformers go, Moons of Darsalon is one of the most unique and entertaining I've played in quite some time. It's engaging, it's funny, and it's frustrating in (usually) the most entertaining of ways. The gameplay, graphics, and audio combine to remind us that sci-fi is still allowed to be campy fun. Gil Gerard would be proud.
If you're willing to get into the turn-based RPG combat of VED, it isn't bad. But because of the relatively slow action sequences and some of the script and voice directing choices, it never really pulled me in where I could lose track of time playing it.
Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is likely to overwhelm even the most experienced of SRPG aficionados at the start, but that's by design. Its depth and uniqueness will delight those choosing to stick with it, while others can just lower the difficulty to push through this colorful and charming adventure.
Cuisineer combines restaurant management and dungeon crawling to create a simple but absorbing game. It is cute and relaxing in a way that makes it easy to unwind while still working towards goals that are satisfying to achieve.
Nintendo continues its long tradition of enhancing past games with Donkey Kong Country Returns HD. While the third time isn't quite the charm it could have been-more of the same Retro Studios title that millions have already experienced on past Nintendo systems-the game is still plenty enjoyable, and even more in co-op. The Cranky Kong in me wants a long overdue brand-new entry in the series. But if you've missed this game through the years, this oldie is still a goodie, and make sure you don't miss it a third time. Even though these bananas are looking a little brown at full launch price, grab the game at a discount, and you'll have a "barrel-blasting adventure!"
With a mixed trio of tables, Williams Pinball Volume 8 offers an uneven package. Black Knight 2000 is peak '80s fun, but for $14.99, you're hoping for every table to be of comparable entertainment. Earthshaker's big claim to fame is HD Rumble, while Banzai Run is a "growing pains" table-empty and struggling to run on Switch. Wishlist this pack for a future sale, or stick with Pinball FX3.
Even if you're not a fan of the show, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind is still a good game as far as multiplayer arcade fighters go. If you ARE a fan of the show, you'll really want to add this to your library.
As far as remasters of remakes go, Ys Memoir: The Oath in Felghana is as good as they get. This PSP-era action RPG throwback is right at home on the Nintendo Switch. Its short time to completion helps prevent repetition and occasional aimlessness from being a real problem, making it an adventure worth taking.
Universe for Sale is a visual novel that will challenge genre and sci-fi fans thematically and structurally. While the graphics are certainly the highlight, the game's story and characters are unique enough to hold your attention when the puzzles and pacing slow things down.
Potionomics: Masterwork Edition is a charming and absorbing game that blends the day to day management of a growing business with a cute fantasy world populated by a community of wholesome and interesting characters.
EcoGnomix is a solid strategy game where you'll need to be on your toes through every run of the game. Patience is key with this one.
If these Taito milestone compilations are to continue, a slightly lower price combined with a couple more exclusives could be the winning combination. Some extra historical content (seen in comparable collections) could add welcomed value, too. But I'll say this for emphasis, if you already own the A-material in this third installment as individual Arcade Archive releases, you might not be the ideal audience.
Stray is a post-apocalyptic story told from a feline's perspective. It couples creepiness with tenderness, featuring many interesting characters and puzzles as you unravel the mystery of this dying world. The visuals and audio are delightful, and the story is satisfying to see through to completion. Well done!