A calm, almost meditative game with no violence – something there should definitely be more of in the industry. Engages the player’s imagination more than anything else with its modest visuals, great ambient audio and a simple but engaging story. [06/2020, p.56]

If anyone can introduce anything interesting into a runner genre, it’s Choice Provisions. Runner3 is one of very few such games that use their automaticity to their advantage instead of suffering from it. All levels are handcrafted, so there’s a true sense of progression and getting better by the hour, and the soundtrack is outstanding. [07/2018, p.51]

When Unravel did not annoy me with its poor level design and shortcomings related to gameplay mechanics, it was really enjoyable. [03/2016, p.38]

There are two categories of people I would recommend Blaster Master Zero to: fans of the original Blaster Master and those looking for an accessible introduction to Metroidvanias. [06/2017, p.62]

An excellent modern nod towards the likes of Final Fantasy, and a beautifully drawn, masterfully animated feast for the eyes. [12/2017, p.72]

The essence of good old Gothic-style RPG: a neat story, a lot of new enemies and of course all the features that made Two Worlds II enjoyable, including interesting crafting and character development systems. If you liked Two Worlds II, you will like the add-on even more. [December 2011, p.74]

It’s simply pure entertainment and a lot of laughs. The usage of renaissance paintings was wonderfully executed. [06/2020, p.48]

The Game Kitchen’s latest work is ideal not only for fans of metroidvania genre. For me its accessibility and sheer fun of gameplay compares to a “souls” version of last year’s Spider-Man, which is the best recommendation I can give. [12/2019, p.55]

The series has barely evolved since Sniper Elite 2 – it got stuck in World War II and one gameplay blueprint. Even the visuals are outdated. Moreover I simply can’t take Karl Fairburne’s exploits seriously as he singlehandedly clears whole villages full of Nazis, takes on tanks and for the third time shoots Hitler in the nuts in the DLC. Pure nonsense. [04/2017, p.60]

Due to quick levelling up and relatively small map Mutant Year Zero feels smaller than it actually is, but still don’t expect more than 12-15 hours of moderately engaging gameplay that unfortunately slows down towards the end. [01/2019, p.80]

It’s a pity that this bundle does not include more prominent games, because the ones we get are probably completely obscure to many players. On the other hand though it’s a chance to travel to possibly unknown regions of the past and see how the genre evolved. Oh, and Armored Warriors is really cool. [12/2018, p.89]

Another Crab’s Treasure neatly combines soulslike basics with accessibility and friendliness towards novice players, including young ones. It offers a cheerful story in an interesting setting and deserves to at least be checked out.

In terms of story, puzzles and length Deponia 2 outmatched its predecessor and the ending raises hopes for an equally great finale. [CD-Action 1/2013, p.69]

I don’t need great visuals to enjoy the game, but come on... OlliOlli looks like shareware releases from the 90. [10/2014, p.67]

Swery proves that his storytelling skills are unlike any other in the industry – I would only wish that someone helped him to design better puzzles. [13/2018, p.80]

A playable Czech cartoon. Short and likeable. Compared to other Amanita Design’s games it’s just a snack – but it still has the studio’s trademark pleasant quirkiness. [13/2019, p.90]

Camelot managed to develop a game that will please golf enthusiasts as well as engage those who fall asleep as soon as the conversation about this sport starts. [06/2014, p.65]

A very enjoyable game rich with well-designed modes, none of which feels forced or redundant. [12/2015, p.55]

In comparison to Guitar Hero Live the new Rock Band game is way too conservative. There’s a certain tradition in the music business: when a performer grows a beer belly and can’t climb to the top of the charts anymore, you send him to tour Japan, so he can grab some more money from a bit more loyal local fans. After seeing Rock Band’s current shape all I can say to it is “sayonara”. [12/2015, p.63]

Hazelight’s interactive movie sets a new standard for co-op games. It’s varied, thrilling, very pretty and enjoyable for both hardcore and casual gamers. It evokes tons of positive emotions and I can’t remember last time an action game moved me so much. [05/2018, p.50]

This game makes you forget you’re playing on a handheld – it’s a full-blown title with excellent graphics. Too bad enemies are sometimes incredibly stupid and checkpoints often frustratingly far from one another. [11/2013, p.85]

I really tried to like this game but the more I played it, the more tired I grew of its generic world, uninspired quests, dull characters and long distances you have to cross over and over again while cutting down respawning enemies. Combat is really good though, especially against massive foes, and the Pawns system is an interesting idea. [August 2012, p.66]

This cute, well-designed and relaxing little gem takes playing with light and shadows to the next level. Its gameplay is based on the cooperation between a little girl that’s afraid of light, and her shadow twin who helps her in her journey through magical, a little surrealistic and beautifully drawn environments. [02/2021, p.42]

Clichéd and predictable story might not be Unbound’s strong point, but the level design and mechanics definitely are. Behind the game’s fairy-tale charm, fantastic visuals and great music you’ll find masterfully crafted and challenging gameplay. This Romanian indie gem is not only highly polished, but also wonderfully varied and exciting from start to finish. [10/2021, p.76]

A delightfully absurd, genuinely funny tactical game that offers a lot of content, looks and sounds great and is an absolute blast to play in co-op. [05/2018, p.66]

A positive surprise in the metroidvania genre. Although it’s not overly complex and the game needs some time to find its own tempo. [04/2020, p.64]

I kept wondering whether the developer first came up with a brawler and then added the whole card game dressing to avoid expanding the arcade component or was it the other way around. Whatever the case may be the game is unique, I’ll give it that, but it doesn’t mean it’s good. [05/2015, p.66]

Despite RIGS’s modest content hats down to Guerrilla Games for proving that there’s a place in virtual reality for real, fast-paced first-person shooters, not just the on-rail variety. [13/2016, p.78]