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The Enigma Machine has a solid, page-turning plot. The way it embraces unfolding technology (and in a unique visual style) is something I'd like to see more of. But the marriage of story and visuals with the gameplay is mixed. Some successful puzzles are let down by in-between, squinting-at-the-screen, bits; this is probably one to skip if you're playing on a Switch Lite. But if you have affection for the early 32-bit era, give The Enigma Machine a shot. It's not much of a commitment in terms of funds or time.
If you have not played the first Windjammers game and are interested in the franchise, with all of the new additions to Windjammers 2, you can't go wrong with this one. However, if you've played the first Windjammers and are still having a great time with it, I would suggest waiting for a sale before purchasing this entry.
Heaven Dust 2 offers around 10 hours of isometric action/puzzler fun. It's meant as an homage to Resident Evil, but it stands up well on its own even if you've never played one of those games or the original Heaven Dust. Just be prepared for plenty of backtracking and puzzle confusion along the way.
Faircroft's Antiques: The Forbidden Crypt Collector's Edition delivers. This good-sized adventure (glitch-free) is an easy recommendation for those who enjoy games like this. And again, "Everybody's just so nice!"
Watermelon Blocks is built for simplicity. It's missing some key details that would make the overall experience feel more complete, but it's still decently enjoyable at a cheap price.
I Love Finding Cats! features multiple puzzle types and various objects to find – it's not just about cats! There's plenty to do in this relaxing puzzle experience, although some of the controls are a little clumsy.
Lacuna is a surprise gem. It's a game where your choices matter. It will require some deep thinking and quite a bit of reading. But that's what makes it an excellent detective game. If you're up for a challenge, you shouldn't pass up Lacuna.
Epic Dumpster Bear 2: He Who Bears Wins is a funny game that controls great. Though I wish the story was a bit longer, you unlock bonus levels. I'd say it's worth checking out.
Sam & Max: Beyond Time and Space is an OK release overall. This 20-or-so-hour adventure has an admirable quantity of content, but the quality amongst the individual episodes is inconsistent. I found only two of the five to be the sort I'd want to replay. Still, Sam & Max are great characters. Pick up their earlier adventure, Sam & Max Save the World, to get an idea if this one is for you.
My time with Astroneer was a pleasant experience that let me enjoy a more chilled out base building game. It lets you explore these worlds and discover everything it has to offer without ever holding your hand, nor providing challenges to make you feel stressed. That said, the chill gameplay style ultimately is the game's long-term demise. After your first 10 to 15 hours, there's no real reason to continue on to other worlds. Besides the setting changes, there's nothing that new or challenging about going to other worlds. If you're looking for a fun game to play with your friends, then Astroneer can be a good pickup. If you're looking for the next long-term gaming experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
Headland is a simple but cute and well-made action adventure game, populated with cute characters, colourful settings and a surprisingly heart-warming message.
Match Three Pirates II is a solid puzzle game with various difficulty settings. However, there's nothing else to the game, so you might have short gameplay sessions.
6Souls is a challenging platformer with great graphics, music, and gameplay. It can border on frustrating, but if you're a glutton for punishment, have a high level of patience, and/or love a challenge, this one might be worth checking out.
Playing as a young girl named Maya, Ever Forward takes you through a series of puzzles to tell one person's story within a global pandemic. Challenging, fun, and interesting, this adventure puzzle game is worth the playthrough.
Ghost Sync is another solid entry in KEMCO's long line of retro JRPGs. Although the story isn't terribly compelling, its female protagonist and unique battle elements are engaging throughout. Use Ghost Sync when you need a diversion from more demanding, intense gaming sessions.
As an action/rogue-lite hybrid, Tunnel of Doom offers plenty of playtime and random arrangements to provide some uncertainty and challenge (no simple pattern memorizing). It's hurt by little variety, almost no story to engage the player, and limited visuals, but it isn't a bad option if you want a game to while away some time in darkened mine tunnels.
A Year of Springs is the heartfelt story of three young women in Japan, facing issues with love, friendship, and gender. This visual novel is cute yet compelling, and highly recommended.
Aspire: Ina's Tale combines a puzzle platformer structure with a rich magical story and a beautifully designed world to create a fun, if brief, adventure.
While Asteroids is iconic entertainment, this installment (like the Recharged series in general) is too conservative to vouch for at launch price. When I can say versions of these games from 40 years ago are just as fun, if not more, there is a problem. This series is running out of steam and needs a change in approach to revive interest.
What it lacks in an actual narrative, FILMECHANISM makes up for in everything else. With its addictive puzzles, simple yet thought-provoking mechanics, catchy soundtrack, and retro but modern 8-bit world, you have the complete package when looking for a 2D puzzle-action game.