Netto’s Game Room's Reviews
Transformers: Battlegrounds is ultimately a fine game. It's far from the best tactical game that I've ever played, and by the end of the game, I was happy to see the end. To the game's credit though, this is the only Transformers tactics game we've ever received, and as a fan of the genre and the IP, I'm happy that Battlegrounds exists. The game had some intriguing genre innovations too, and unique character builds that kept me experimenting with different mechanics. Since the game is delisted, it isn't easy to obtain now, but if you can score yourself an inexpensive copy, I feel like it's worth experiencing. If you can only find pricey copies of the game, I don't know that I can recommend it, unless you're a diehard fan of Transformers or the tactics genre.
Thomas & Friends: Wonders of Sodor greatly surpassed my expectations. While it plays on nostalgia, the core gameplay is a full-on simulator that is a railfan's dream come true! With a massive amount of content that takes hundreds of hours to complete, this package offers much more than meets the eye and should not be overlooked. It is also a great title for children to watch, though parents will definitely need to be the ones behind the controls.
Tinykin is a short game, I beat it in around seven hours. There isn't a ton of content, but if you're seeking a fun, tight experience that you can beat in a weekend, I think you'd be hard pressed to find a better game of this caliber. It feels polished and thoughtful, and an altogether refreshing video game. And as if the gameplay wasn't solid enough, the adorable art style and presentation kept me smiling throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment with this game, and I earnestly hope that the developers aim to make a sequel.
FATAL FRAME II: Crimson Butterfly REMAKE is a haunting, modernized tribute to the golden age of survival horror. By blending rich Japanese folklore with its signature photography-based combat, the game forces players to confront their fears head on as they unravel the dark mysteries of the Lost Village. Though its steep learning curve isn't for everyone, the game is an unforgettable experience, and those who survive the village may find themselves drawn back to its beautiful, terrifying world time and time again.
Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered expertly blends the gameplay of Blood Omen and Soul Reaver while retaining the same masterclass in storytelling the series is known for. While its PS2 roots are still on display, the new camera angle paints the entire experience in a new light, making it a title both fans and newcomers will not want to miss.
I really enjoyed my time with Pac-Man World Re-PAC. Like I mentioned, it feels like a PS1 game, which can be both a good and a bad thing. The new, gorgeous graphics almost made me feel like I was playing a brand new game, but once I actually got into some stages, those nearly thirty year old, early 3D platformer mechanics and antiquated level designs were made more apparent. I think the game has a ton of charm to it though, and I found it to be quite enjoyable, despite its rougher edges. It's a relatively brief experience too, as I finished it in under eight hours. If you can grab it on sale, I really think you'll find a nice value in Pac-Man World Re-PAC.
BlazBlue Entropy Effect X is the definitive version of 2023’s addictive roguelike. While the previous release had few connections to the overall series, the expanded story by the original writers is a highly welcomed addition. Narrative aside, the solid gameplay is what will truly hook players and keep them coming back for more.
Grounded is a well-made and well-paced experience from start to finish. With the help of the community's feedback during early access, the developers managed to balance the best of all the genres they tackled, creating a very enjoyable game for solo players—but especially for those playing with friends. Somehow, they managed to make quite a few bugs cute as well, and that alone is an impressive feat.
Ys X: Proud Nordics is easily one of the best entries in the series, period. From the solid gameplay to the ocean exploration, this story of Adol, Karja, and their crew is engaging from start to finish, and one can't help but get a bit misty-eyed at the thought of saying goodbye.
Escape from Ever After is truly a delightful game, and a worthy successor to the Paper Mario franchise, at least until Nintendo hopefully brings the series back to its original RPG roots. While I had complaints with aspects of the game, mostly in the writing, the general soul of Paper Mario remained intact, and it was great playing what felt like a new entry in that iconic series. I hope the game is successful and that this is the start of its own franchise, as I think Escape from Ever After has laid a solid foundation to forge its own unique identity and legacy. With a greater focus on different storybooks and fairy tales, a potential sequel is set up for a home run. Even if this ends up being a one off game, I definitely recommend it.
ROMEO IS A DEAD MAN is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What initially feels like a standard, run-of-the-mill action game quickly evolves into a completely off-the-wall adventure that continues to surprise players from beginning to end. Even when the credits roll, you can't help but ask yourself what you just played—while knowing full well it was Suda51’s best action outing to date.
I found A Short Hike to be charming little game. It can be fully beaten within an evening, so be aware of that before going in possibly thinking the game will have a lot of mileage for you. I got it on a deep sale, and really enjoyed my brief time with the game. While I have complaints about the uneven writing, it's a small factor in the overall product, and there's more than enough to enjoy with the fun gameplay and enchanting visuals and soundtrack.
Anima: Gate of Memories I & II Remastered is a fun callback to the adventure games of days gone by. Players can easily immerse themselves in its unique, dark world filled with mysteries, but it is the exploration that will keep them coming back for more.
Rabbit & Steel is some of the most fun I have had with friends and solo! It's simple to learn but hard to master, with an addictive game loop that makes you want to try again and become better with your favorite class. It's cute, has amazing music, enjoyable story, really fun gameplay. What more could you want from a game?
BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW is an unforgettable chapter in the series that tackles multiple serious themes. The subject matter is something many players will relate to in one way or another, and the twisted manifestations of the protagonist’s traumas will leave players questioning reality. With spot-on environmental storytelling and an intriguing underlying mystery, this is an entry that both fans and newcomers will not want to miss.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is simply the game at its best. The 3.0 update added a surprising amount of new content and quality-of-life improvements that are truly game-changing. From streamlined crafting to improved controls and more, it would be difficult to return to the original version. While the Switch 2 upgrade itself doesn't offer much beyond 12-player multiplayer and visual boosts, it remains the definitive way to experience the game. Whether you are a returning fan or a new player, there has never been a better time to jump into the world of Animal Crossing.
With a creative set of abilities facilitating fun platforming, beautiful graphics reminiscent of the PS1 era, and an old-school experience that refuses to hold the player’s hand, the specific niche Pseudoregalia aims for will really love this game.
Ring Fit Adventure is a fantastic indoor workout tool and arguably one of the best fitness games on the market. The RPG Adventure Mode is addictive enough to motivate players and push them to complete every stage, while the wide variety of exercises provides a great full-body workout, and the inclusion of a pure exercise mode makes it a perfect title for both gamers and non-gamers alike. If you are looking for an accessible, effective at-home workout to improve your health, then this game is a must.
Darksiders is really a wonderful game through and through. The game doesn't have a weak point, or an aspect that left me dissatisfied. If you enjoy the classic 3D Legend of Zelda titles, I definitely think you'd enjoy Darksiders. Between the distinctive art and universe design, the delightfully violent, kinetic combat and the great story, there's just a whole lot here to love.
Pac-Man World 2 Re-PAC is more than just a remaster; it is what the original title should have been. It contains double the content, introduces new moves and abilities, and refines the existing levels. While the original wasn't game-changing, Re-PAC is a solid linear platformer and a great callback to the "good old days."