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Yellow Taxi Goes Vroom reimagines platformer mechanics by eliminating the jump button and instead utilizes dynamic environments to challenge players. With a heavy emphasis on collectibles and engaging level design, the game offers both nostalgia and innovation, appealing to fans of classic arcade games. While the unique gameplay and generous checkpoints provide a fresh and friendly experience, the game's intense focus on collecting every item and some underdeveloped late-game content could detract from its appeal for more casual players.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes is a beautiful JRPG from beginning to end. It captures the wonder of discovery and adventure in every scene, with an added dose of tension as you navigate the complexities of a nation at war. Still, much of the weight has been removed from the player to the point where it feels like the entire experience is on autopilot and you're simply participating when it wants you to, like in a boss battle or environmental puzzle. That said, if I look at this game through the lens of it being Murayama-san's adventure and not mine, I'm just happy that he allowed me to accompany him on this path. While it's a brilliant showcasing of retro meets modern, there are areas to improve, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
Looking Up I See Only A Ceiling delves into the emotional and personal experience of a stress-ridden student navigating daily challenges amidst unusual phenomena. This title epitomizes the indie game ethos of storytelling from a deeply personal perspective, aiming to resonate with players on an emotional level. While the game's narrative and character development might not connect with every player due to its minimalist approach, its visual and audio elements work together to create a gloomy, atmospheric experience.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is an exceptional sequel that surpasses expectations in nearly every aspect. It combines compelling storytelling, innovative combat, and a wealth of engaging content to deliver an unforgettable adventure. As a bold continuation of the saga, it sets the stage for the final installment, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what comes next. Square Enix has truly outdone itself, showcasing the depth and potential of the Final Fantasy VII universe.
Sympathy Kiss is a great otome game with its blend of romance and relatable experiences, with its office setting appealing especially to a more mature audience. While the faceless protagonist and rather compromised approach at some of the narrative beats are definitely its biggest gripes, it still manages to be a short and sweet story that both fans and newcomers to the genre can appreciate.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink showcases CyGames at their best. They don’t attempt to reinvent the action JRPG genre; instead, they focus on putting their unique twist on the formula. The result is a responsive and addictive experience for solo and online play. For those wanting the most, the online quests offer an almost endless supply of action. At the same time, the story campaign serves as a general introduction to the mechanics but remains equally epic. There’s room for improvement, though, and post-launch support will determine the lasting appeal of this experience, but for what it’s worth, the wait was worth it, and I’m excited for future growth in this series.
Persona 3 Reload is a highly-anticipated remake that doesn't deliver on all fronts. Still, it tries to do so with plenty of meticulous care. The added character scenes and new activities make the experience even more compelling, while the modernized visuals and new English voice cast live up to this classic's legacy. However, some of the new gameplay features make the experience too easy and forgiving. Additionally, the exclusion of some elements, like The Answer from Persona 3 FES, makes this launch less definitive than it could have been.
Anomaly Agent offers a succinct gaming experience, combining platforming and combat within a sci-fi narrative. As Agent 70, players address global anomalies, facing challenges that require both strategy and skill. The game balances its story, combat, and platforming elements effectively. However, repetitive boss fights and a simple upgrade system are questionable. Despite these issues, its design and mechanics make it a notable indie game, with enough depth to encourage replayability.
Phantom Abyss offers a thrilling gaming experience, but it won't keep you hooked for hours on end unless you have a group of friends to tackle the temples alongside you.
Another Code: Recollection is an absorbing experience from start to finish, one that will keep mystery fans comfortably engaged thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and enjoyable cast. Lacks a little special something, but it's got a lot of heart.
Tekken 8 sets a new standard for 3D fighting games with its breathtaking visuals and intricate details. This installment boasts a diverse and immersive soundtrack that enhances the overall experience. With a robust roster of 32 characters and an epic storyline, it offers extensive single-player content, including Arcade Quest mode and Tekken Ball. The gameplay emphasizes aggression, and the Heat and Rage systems add depth to battles. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the series, Tekken 8 offers an unforgettable 3D fighting game experience that transcends the genre. Don't miss this masterpiece.
Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth is an ambitious mainline outing that doesn't quite check all the right boxes, but definitley attempts to do so with a ton of heart. The gameplay variety, improved combat system, and excellent character dynamics make this an adventure for the ages with standout setting distinction. However, the poor narrative pacing, questionable ending scenes, and noticeably lacking difficulty stand out in an otherwise addictive experience.
Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy is a package featuring unconventionally gripping character arcs and quintessential Ace Attorney shenanigans. The compelling strife of protagonist Apollo Strife is the throughline pushing everything forward, alongside an engaging multi-faceted central cast that makes the world immensely more well-rounded and full of depth. Despite the inconsistent quality across this release's several mysteries and episodes, some of the franchise's best are showcased here in newly defined form. Further, the trilogy-exclusive features, such as the extensive art gallery, music player, and ease of accessibility with plenty of playable languages, make this another Ace Attorney homerun. Still, those who have strong attachments to the original trilogy may find it difficult to become endeared to these experiences.
Yuuna and the Haunted Hot Springs: The Thrilling Steamy Maze Kiwami delivers a competent yet familiar dungeon-crawling experience, blending light-hearted anime storytelling with engaging roguelike gameplay. While the narrative is enjoyable and predictably steeped in anime tropes, the game's real strength lies in its challenging gameplay and strategic depth, particularly in its item management system and the unique Resonance Hot Spring feature. However, the game's themes and visuals lack innovation, and the PC port disappoints with its limited options and subpar controller support. Despite its solid mechanics and charming narrative, the game struggles to distinguish itself in a genre filled with more compelling titles.
Criminal Border 1st Offence offers a unique blend of engaging narrative and complex character development, set against the backdrop of a digital drug saga. The visual novel excels in subverting gender stereotypes and presenting a rich, glitch-inspired aesthetic with a fitting digital soundtrack. However, the game's heavy editing for certain platforms and its niche appeal for adult audiences may limit its accessibility. Despite these drawbacks, its deep exploration of human desires, moral dilemmas, and the unforeseen consequences of technology make it a thought-provoking title. Overall, it sets a strong foundation for its sequels, promising a continued exploration of dark and introspective themes.
I can’t recommend investing time or money into Crystal Story: Dawn of Dusk right now. In so many ways, it just feels incomplete. It feels more or less like a demo that you have to pay twelve dollars for. My sincerest wish is that the developer can polish this game into something greater because, for what it’s worth, I can see the love and the effort. I just think it needed a little more time to be a true indie gem.
Fans of the previous Reigns games will enjoy this new title, which improves on certain aspects of its previous entries and adds new mechanics to keep the series fresh. With new deeds and goals to reach, Reigns Three Kingdom will cause players to spend countless hours completing every task at hand as they live through the final years of the Han Dynasty... If they manage to live that long.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is an unapologetically stylish and sleek Metroidvania action adventure that boasts magnificent movement and brilliant boss design. Aside from setting itself apart from other entries in the Prince of Persia series, it also stands toe-to-toe with some of the genre's giants. While the narrative isn't comparatively engrossing, this one-of-a-kind journey will undeniably satisfy both beginners and veterans of the franchise. The never-mundane gameplay loop full of ceaseless reward and discovery is one that shows clear, meticulous thought poured into it. At its core, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown redefines what Prince of Persia can bring to the table and proves that it can still shine in the modern age if given enough polish and opportunity.
Snowman Story is a delightful blend of touching narrative and engaging puzzles, set in a nostalgically pixelated winter world. Following Chris, a snowman on a quest to avoid melting, the game offers an emotional journey through beautifully crafted landscapes, with a soothing soundtrack that enhances the experience. This heartwarming, introspective adventure is perfect for a peaceful afternoon, resonating with its simplicity and emotional depth.
Trinity Fusion offers a fresh perspective in the roguelike genre, impressively blending elements from successful predecessors with its own unique twist. While the genre often faces skepticism, this game from Angry Mob Games manages to captivate with an addictive gameplay loop set in a narrative-driven multiverse. Players navigate different biomes with three versions of the protagonist, Maya, each possessing unique abilities and encouraging diverse playstyles. The game shines with its engaging combat system that combines rhythmic actions and strategic weapon choices, though it faces challenges in visual presentation and character animation. Despite some repetitive environments and occasional bugs, the game's rewarding upgrade system and varied enemy encounters keep the experience fresh.