Pure Nintendo
HomepagePure Nintendo's Reviews
Spells & Secrets has potential, but the frame rate drops on the Nintendo Switch make it frustrating to play. Otherwise, the controls aren't too bad, but the overall story and characters are lackluster.
Despite its nearly 20-year-old origins, Hitman: Blood Money – Reprisal makes for a fun, violent time on the Nintendo Switch. The aging graphics and cumbersome controls aren't enough to hamper its core stealth action gameplay no matter what playthrough you're on.
Starward Rogue presents a solid shooter experience with a rocking soundtrack and plenty of action as you blast your way through five floors of bullet-riddled mayhem.
Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic is fun, but some significant issues (at least on Switch) make it fall slightly short of its predecessor. It might be better to grab this one on sale or when DLC arrives (hopefully with a performance patch). Creative types might not want to wait that long.
Gorgeous from start to finish, The Cub is a short but hugely entertaining 2D platformer that has been crafted with love to be not only a fun game to play, but a fantastic piece of satirical art that does not pull its punches in its critiques of contemporary reality.
Hammerwatch II's graphics and world design are amazing, and the soundtrack fits super well into each area. The gameplay is still a little frustrating, though. And with the very real chance of losing all of your progress, I wouldn't say it's worth it. It's sad to see such a well-designed game ruined by such fatal bugs.
The Legend of Steel Empire for Nintendo Switch strikes a solid balance between its modern upgrades and its Sega Genesis roots. Despite its short campaign, the game offers plenty for shmup fans to uncover and master without completely overwhelming casual arcade players.
Overall, if you're looking for something simple and chill that you can pick up and play whenever or tell yourself, "five more minutes," then Pan'orama is a great choice.
I couldn't help but think back to Minesweeper when playing Growth. There's much more to this relaxing, nature-based, hexagonal puzzle game, but its reliance on a mixture of clever strategy and random luck will appeal to (or repel) the same crowd.
While the number of games in this collection pales next to many other Switch compilations, shmup fans up for a challenge probably won't want to sleep on this one. Irem Collection Volume 1 offers some entertaining fun that will put your skills to the test. How about some love for Irem's In The Hunt next?
A provocative and technical feat, Terra Nil stands out from games with a similar environmental setting. It requires you to think creatively and intelligently about the challenges faced by the natural world, and it leaves you with a realistic vision of what humanity needs to do to change the world for the better.
One Night Burlesque isn't one of those indies where the fantastic gameplay spawns a cult of followers who keep it alive in tournaments. There's very little actual "game" here. But if you're a fan of visually innovative storytelling and want a movie-length experience, I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Knights of the Rogue Dungeon is simple yet addictive. This dungeon-hopping game truly matches the phrase "easy to pick up, hard to put down", with a strong replay element. Upgrades, enemies, music, and layout make this one easy to enjoy.
It's probably not good that the most distinctive element of Arcadian Atlas is its jazzy soundtrack, but it's still a decent tactical RPG that provides enough challenge and intrigue to overcome a few missteps. Genre fans will get their money's worth.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a splendid return to form for the series. The developers have done a terrific job with an original story and a visually impressive title that's well implemented on the Switch. The smooth gameplay, terrific map system, and satisfying combat and exploration make this a must-play for genre fans.
I've genuinely attempted to click with Berzerk: Recharged (and the Recharged series overall). But, after many weeks, it's clear I never will. This game doesn't deliver what it promises, which is a "revival of an arcade classic."
Overall, Pixel Cafe is a charming cafe time manager with great pixel art. The chill Lo-fi rock soundtrack fits well with the mood, scenes, and themes of each cafe you work at. I'd say its price, $12.99, is fair as the game is pretty well done and has a good amount of content.
Kickback Slug: Cosmic Courier is a pleasant little diversion with a dash of sarcasm, a pinch of difficulty, and a sprinkle of silliness (leave out the salt; our hero has some issues with that ingredient for some reason). What the game lacks in depth, it makes up for with simple fun.
If you really like the action RPG genre, Gothic II Complete Classic is a decent historical entry. I found elements which engage and disappoint in equal measure. Ultimately, the frustrations overpowered the attractions, and I was just as happy to put the game away.
Overall, Tevi is a beautiful-looking side-scrolling metroidvania with bullet hell and RPG elements. A heavy load of dialogue slows things down initially, but there's a deep game hiding beneath the surface with satisfying action and gameplay.