COGconnected's Scores

  • Games
For 4,976 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 62% higher than the average critic
  • 6% same as the average critic
  • 32% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 0.3 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 75
Highest review score: 100 Final Fantasy XVI
Lowest review score: 10 Wander (2013)
Score distribution:
4982 game reviews
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    I enjoyed my time with Moving Out, but that’s not to say I had fun. This game frustrated me. Deeply. In much of the same way Overcooked did. But Moving Out never entirely lives up to the bar set by Overcooked. At times it feels unfocused, scattered, and above all else, inconsistent in its rules. But where the technical side of the game lacks, the flair and pizazz of everything make up for it. I love the characters and the music, the couch co-op gameplay is second to none, and I appreciate a game that has no problem being there if you only need it for a few minutes to pass the time.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    I like a game that tries to combine several different gameplay styles, but the overall experience seems rushed and unpolished. It offers plenty of content and skills, yet doesn't seem to excel at any particular one. Elemental: Fallen Enchantress does a lot of things right but never truly delivers on any of them.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    This is a great game that still has the power to engross today’s gaming audience. However, for all those who have played it already, I hate to rain on your parade, but Heavy Rain might not be worth another visit.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    If you want a modern take on the classic Zelda formula that includes multiplayer and a health dose of both nostalgia and fresh experiences, I cannot recommend Rogue Heroes enough.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    One could make a long list of things that Jupiter Hell isn’t, but that would be missing the point and the prize. Jupiter Hell is an easy-to-understand, but challenging and addictive roguelike, with turn-based action that never gets bogged down with the minutiae of facing, hexes, grids, or overly-complex mechanics. Instead, it zeroes in on cover, position, tactics, and the smart use of the tools at hand. The procedurally generated elements are the stuff of hit and miss, luck of the draw, run-ending frustration, and occasionally some pretty barren levels. Aside from that, Jupiter Hell is a focused and fun homage to an era of shooter where you never knew what was around the next dark corner.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Eastward is a game about a journey and the characters you meet along the way. Although the combat and puzzles are quite typical, the setting, sound and art style are remarkable, making this an essential trek through an incredible world.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    State of Decay is certainly not without its flaws, but if you can see past them you’ll find that there is a boatload of entertaining gameplay that awaits you in this unique zombie survival simulator.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    It’s smart, the jokes are funny, and the story is incredible with some excellent twists. I fell in love with its canvas visuals and character interactions, making this one of my favorite point-and-click adventure games in recent memory. It plays wonderfully on console and its charm is never lost. Its relatively short length isn’t a detriment in the slightest; It only encouraged me to fall for it over and over again.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    You definitely won't find anything else like Retro/Grade on PSN, so if you're a fan of either genre (schmup or rhythm), definitely download the demo and give it a fair shot as you should find that you will be intrigued and drawn to its premise and gameplay elements that you will want buy the full game.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Gunbrella takes a ridiculous idea and creates an incredible adventure around it. The gun/umbrella combination allows you to quickly traverse and blast enemies with ease. Surprisingly, the narrative includes an emotional punch and is brimming with charm. Although some of the side missions are not as strong as the main objectives, the game is a delight from beginning to end and a must-play for fans of Metroidvanias.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There’s no way this will ever be a mainstream fighting game, but it’s still a blast to play.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    I didn’t know if I would recommend Inkulinati when I was first playing it. But it grew on me. You will quickly see a lot of what the game has to offer. There aren’t that many things to unlock. There’s not really a campaign. You can do a one on one battle or a roguelike tower a la classic arcade fighting games. You will see all that the game has to offer pretty quickly. But I wasn’t counting on how strong the actual strategy game is. This is the first release from Yaza Games, but they seem like a team with some fresh ideas and the vision to implement them. Daedalic Entertainment publishes a lot of novel strategy titles that fail to hold your attention for long. Inkulinati earns its place in your library with its depth.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Lego City Undercover for Switch doesn’t offer any new content from the Wii U version, but if you never played the Wii U version, than this is an easy choice for Switch owners.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    With great character and level design, and so much to do, there is more then enough to keep anyone busy. The new trapping of enemies adds a more immersion to an already busy game.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Tropico 6 doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—no matter what El Presidente claims—to be a great experience.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    If you’ve already got the base game, I can’t imagine you’ll get much out of Origins Plus. If you grew up playing the Game Gear, great news! These are twelve colorful trips down memory lane. Otherwise, I don’t recommend it. Turns out Sega’s first portable gaming experiment aged rather poorly. Sonic Origins is a fun and accessible way to play Sonic’s greatest hits. But Origins Plus spends too much time on bland, awful games.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    UFC 5 is the best release in the franchise. The new submission system is a massive improvement on previous iterations and the cinematic knockouts never get old. Tweaks in the combat create a nuanced system that opens up a range of options to attack. Although I did encounter the odd camera issue and the game could use a mission-based tutorial, each aspect in the octagon has been thoughtfully designed to replicate the sport.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    In a genre that is filled to the brim with many different titles all competing to be the best, The Forest certainly sets itself apart. It’s hard and terrifying but also rewarding in its own right. Each death taught me a new lesson. There’s a ton of customization and crafting to be done, and the areas that can be explored are very well made. The best part of this is that there is no single right way to play as you can tackle the game’s happenings in any way you want. Anyone who likes crafting, survival and possibly being eaten by cannibals (or eating the cannibals) should definitely give this game a whirl.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    As a challenge from the very beginning, fans who are into this sub-genre will surely enjoy Never Give Up. With clever quips from our characters, the solid controls to the satisfying jumps and evades, get ready to jump through missiles, slide through hammers and evading charging rhinos, this is definitely a title worth picking up.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    All in all, The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II is a great extension of the first Trails Through Daybreak. Just don’t try playing it first and you should have a great time.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    My advice? If you haven’t played either game, you can probably skip the first one. Otherwise, only dive into The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II if you absolutely loved the previous game. It’s a fun enough experience, though it’s not worth the second round.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 offers upgraded visuals, a bigger hanger full of aircraft types, and more detail all around. For some, the high system requirements and always-on need for a fast internet connection might be a deal breaker. Prior investment in a lot of third-party add-ons for the last edition might also warrant some caution. Caveats aside, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 offers a wide array of structured activities, plenty of guidance and, you know, the whole world to explore. It’s a great point of entry for armchair pilots and pretty satisfying for all but the most hardcore flight enthusiasts.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Playing Rock Band Blitz with the standard Xbox 360 controller was a hoot as the fast gameplay, enjoyable set list and the ability to play your existing Rock Band tunes from your library (for a price) makes Rock Band Blitz a solid buy for fans of the franchise.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    Playing this game did give me a lot of nostalgia about middle school, yes, but when it comes to fun to be had in 2016, Worms W.M.D. feels dated, as does the enjoyment you can squeeze out of it.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 45 Critic Score
    I can give it a point or two for the educational value, but as something that is supposed to be fun the interactive sequences are only mildly entertaining and the episodes themselves will have your eyelids getting heavy in no time flat.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Life is Strange Episode 2 is where you start to truly witness and experience how the choices you make affect the story.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I don’t like raining on anyone’s parade but it seems hard to believe that anyone will be scared by this stuff these days. It’s all so… hokey. But if you’re just itching to see what the commotion was all about with this series, and you can do so with a sensible understanding of context, the Amnesia Collection might be worth the investment.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Darknet is a game of layers and depth in its puzzle-solving approach and economy management. Its addicting gameplay loop of capturing nodes, buying upgrades, and using the different tools pushes the player to play just one more level. But Darknet simply does not utilize virtual reality and its advantages in any meaningful way. A bob of the head is all that differentiates it from a non-VR title and these are the types of efforts that VR doesn’t need in its nascent stages.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 66 Critic Score
    The Mummy Demastered just feels too generic of a Metroidvania overall to give players any real lasting impression. It’s the kind of game that you’ll play through and mostly enjoy, but when it’s over you’ll have a hard time recalling any defining moments.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    With its wild punk rock vibe, Charlie Murder is a solid game offering up more then the average Xbox Live arcade title. The lengthy campaign is a lot of fun to tear through with friends, and the great soundtrack makes for a fun atmosphere.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    It’s got the charm and outward appeal, as well as simple but fulfilling gameplay to draw in new comers, but it’s also got the depth and versatility that keeps veterans coming back time and time again. What it lacks in the form of a gripping story, it makes up for with rewarding, fun, and simple gameplay that can be enjoyed by everyone.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Melty Blood Actress Again Current Code should be a much better game than it is, as the base game is very solid. It’s disappointing to see a strong base and nothing supporting it.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Provides a solid amount of goodies to keep Breath of the Wild fans occupied through the summer months.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    All in all, Fury Unleashed provided me with several entertaining afternoons and also brought me back to the past. It’s very fun, hard to play well, and the randomness of the levels was a treat for those looking for a challenge. Even though the game was short and felt a tad repetitive due to going through the same chapter after endless deaths, it doesn’t chastise you for failure and helps you along the way to become better than your previous run. Yes, it can be frustrating, but it’s an enjoyable frustration – I recommend the challenge.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Planetside 2 gives you a massive and fun online shooting experience, and it’s completely free. Yes, there are microtransactions, but they are very unobtrusive and do not give nearly enough of an advantage to be labelled “pay to win.”
    • 78 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Part murder mystery, part visual novel, Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is an audacious experiment. Happily, it pays off in a unique video game experience. There aren’t many games that use songs in a theatrical way. Being able to direct the flow of the music in real time is exciting and engaging. Pacing issues aside, it’s a concept that’s definitely worthy of continued development. I hope Wintory and Gaider continue to iterate on this new IP.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    GRID 2 may not meet the expectations set by the original game but overall it is still a solid racing experience.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you know your own tastes in RPGs like I do, if you know what systems baked into these games get your cortex lit up like the dashboard on a 747, Atelier Shallie: Alchemists of the Dusk Sea might be perfect for you. However, if you play JRPGs for their rich story and beautiful game worlds, maybe give this one a pass.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’re looking for a puzzler that tests your brain as well as your reflexes, then Death Squared will fit the bill nicely.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 66 Critic Score
    Overall, NBA 2K20 is a good game. The core gameplay and presentation excels, My Career is a simple but enjoyable experience, the WNBA’s included, and the additional modes function but fall short because of the progression stranglehold.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Forager will never replace Minecraft or Stardew Valley, but it certainly has a good thing going for it. The gameplay is fast, the 2D art is very cute and welcoming. It’s incredibly easy to pick up and leave off. It’s a perfect game for someone who wants something quick and fast. I just hope that maybe we will see updates in the future for more islands, more NPCs and quests.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Once again, we come to the important question: is this roguelike worth your time? That depends. Fans of the genre will appreciate the challenge level, the smooth combat, and the robust skill selection. Newcomers and outsiders will love the unique aesthetic and the high level of polish. On the other hand, this game is proper tough. If that’s what you’re looking for, great! You’re in luck. If you’ve been softened and spoiled by other, more considerate roguelikes, then consider yourself duly warned. Have A Nice Death is a slick, relentless roguelike with all the charm and challenge you could need.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    If you’re a fan of the late DJ himself, well this game is a no-brainer. He was clearly a great talent and the music is outstanding. But for everyone else, AVICII Invector: Encore Edition on Meta Quest 2 is still worth strapping on the VR headset and giving a go. The music is great and the gameplay is addictive and fun. If you like rhythm games but you don’t want to sweat (or risk accidentally bonking your family in the head), AVICII Invector: Encore Edition’s chill EDM vibe is the VR experience you’re waiting for.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Every inch of Rogue Flight gleams with style. An obvious passion project like this is filled with delightful little details. Playing Rogue Flight is a joy. I’m an easy mark, the second I see something with wings loaded into a tube, I’m already in. And the sky isn’t crowded with a lot of options. Rogue Flight zooms past expectations into a cool, scrappy game.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Sketchbook Games have created a truly fascinating experience that sensitively deals with trauma. Even though Lost Words suffers from a few gameplay issues, its narrative carries the game to incredible heights. For those looking for an emotional, grief-ridden title, look no further.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    At the end of the day New Super Mario Bros. 2 is a good game, plain and simple. With solid visuals, familiar but tight gameplay, and that famed "Mario-esque" sound, you really can't go wrong.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is a splendid experience crafted intricately by Don’t Nod. The game starts off strong, but a bit of the allure wears off over time as you peek behind the curtains of the various systems within the game. That said, the game’s intriguing narrative, relatively tough decisions, and overall solid gameplay elements make Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden one of the strongest gaming experiences of early 2024.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Sure, there is nothing incredibly original about the game but the sheer size and magnitude of this zombie outbreak is undeniably impressive and certainly gives us a glimpse of what we can expect from these next generation consoles.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Outside of its fairly derivative, sometimes repetitive, and not quite finely-tuned combat, Hell is Us has a unique identity. Its emphatic insistence on patient and meticulous puzzle solving and careful exploration creates a satisfying experience, even if its obtuse execution can frustrate on occasion. The game’s narrative, characters, and setting feel darkly surreal. Its ultimate message about humanity caught in endlessly repeating tragic loops has some weight. For gamers willing to take on its challenges and solve its mysteries, Hell is Us has a lot to offer.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Captain Spirit is an absolute must experience for those who enjoy a heart-filled narrative. It’s easy to overlook the simple character models when you understand the scope of the situation and depth of their character. With easy controls, a detailed environment, and perfect soundtrack, The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit is a feel-good hit that expands on the Life Is Strange universe in a beautiful way.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    While I wouldn’t call Darksiders II underrated, sales notoriously underperformed in 2012. Since then, lots of players have taken the opportunity to enjoy the game on a variety of platforms in the expanded and excellent Deathfinitive edition. Any fan of recent action RPGs will almost certainly enjoy Darksiders II’s combat and world. It looks great on the PS5 and anyone with the PS4 version gets a free upgrade. It’s definitely worth diving into again, or for the first time in the new version.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Though I feel Dead Space 3 may not be the strongest of all the three Dead Space games I found I still enjoyed it thoroughly and feel that it is definitely a title that should be on every action gamer’s radar.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Overall, Pepper Grinder is a solid action platformer. It has a unique feature that helps set it apart from the rest, despite some points that still feel quite generic. Aside from some difficulty spikes, Pepper Grinder is relatively easy and short to get through. While sometimes games can feel a bit too short or too long, the game feels like it hits the right spot in terms of length. Sure, we’re starting to reach a point of saturation with indie 2D action platformers, but there is always room for innovative, fun experiences and Pepper Grinder fits that mould perfectly.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    I will fully admit to getting stuck in a few places. On a few tries, I overextended too quickly or didn’t adapt well to the changing planet. I always mismanage my electrical grid, or my maintenance bots, and build my way into a corner. But I keep coming back. Never before has a strategy game offered me such an involved story in such a staid sandbox. I think I’ll be turning Mars green for a long time to come.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Midnight Fight Express captures the action synonymous with films like The Raid. Combat feels great and includes enough depth to pull off technical combos but is also simple and accessible for newcomers to the genre. The story is a miss-fire and lacks the cinematic flair which is within the gameplay. Whilst the aesthetics are basic, it does feel like a fight through a seedy underworld. The addictive gameplay loop makes you want to replay levels to achieve the highest score. Ultimately, Midnight Fight Express achieves what it set out to do: make you feel like an absolute badass.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    If you’re looking for something new to play and are a fan of roguelike card games, then you’ll probably have a good time with Roguebook. It’s a fun game and does a solid job of being what it is – when it works that is. However, if you’re looking for the next big genre-defying roguelike then you might be a bit disappointed as Roguebook isn’t really that. It is a good game, just not an incredible one and maybe that’s enough.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    I love Eastshade. It was everything I wanted it to be and more. The world was beautiful and expansive, the storytelling was not only strong but often masterful, and the whole package left me with that post-game hangover that has you putting down every game after it. It’s still early 2019, but I have no doubt that Eastshade will remain one of my favorite games of the year and one of my very favorite exploration games of all time. If it were up to me, I’d never take that final ship back out of Lyndow.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    It’s safe to say that for those who haven’t experienced this title in its previous forms, Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition is a no-brainer. It features the biggest roster, the most content, and plays well at home or on the go, despite some technical issues. Those who may have only played one of the 3DS or Wii U versions would also be making a very safe bet in this case, but ultimately, this is just a solid choice for any party that is interested in seeing Link and friends (and foes) kick all kinds of ass across what is essentially a love-letter to fans of the series.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    EA Sports UFC 4 is the best MMA game to date. With an improved career mode, robust online options and significant updates to the core combat, fans of the franchise will be in awe at what steps into the octagon.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Practice and patience will definitely pay off and the most persistent gamers will be successful.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Those that have profoundly enjoyed titles like Journey or Flower, games that push the concept of what a “video game” should be, will relish in the opportunity to take the plunge in this atmospheric underwater world. Rather than ask players to challenge themselves, ABZÛ gives you the freedom to explore the mysteries of the deep at your own pace, providing an ebb and flow that offers a masterful experience.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Project Songbird is a haunting journey through the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist. Each act offers fresh ideas, creating a wonderfully paced adventure brimming with creativity and innovation. The art direction, sound, and impeccable voice acting elevate the experience, helping Dakota’s tale resonate. Although the combat and stealth segments lack the intensity that enshrouds other aspects, adding frustration rather than fear, this thrilling psychological exploration remains a memorable and imaginative horror experience.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Life is Strange: Before the Storm gets a lot of things right about Life is Strange, and I for one am hella excited to ride this train with Chloe and Rachel right to the end.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Every so often, a game comes around to demonstrate the untapped potential of VR technology. Transference is one of those games. It grips you from the beginning with its unrelenting atmosphere and doesn’t let up until the credits roll.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    A charming adventure game that will have you waiting ever so eagerly for the next episode in the AR-K series.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Ironcast isn’t for everyone as it’s geared towards the more hardcore strategy gamer but if you like a challenge and have a low frustration tolerance, Ironcast could be for you.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    There is no question episode three has some big shoes to fill as “Tales From the Borderlands: Episode 2 – Atlas Mugged” continues Telltale’s successful string of story driven adventures.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The Count Lucanor brings to us the best of two amazing genres that many of us love, with a great twist.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    After The Fall has had an arduous journey to reach its current state of playability. The game is even better on the PSVR 2. The PSVR 2 is quickly establishing itself, in its early days, as the platform of choice for VR Games. This version of the game also includes two extra levels – Hospital and Subway – and cross platform multiplayer compatibility. This is, indeed, the complete and definitive version of the game.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    An impressive, albeit expensive, zombies package. This is more than just a new splash of paint. It’s a compilation of some of the great maps that makes the mode so popular today.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    With its visual prowess, RoadCraft presents a promising foundation for a unique and engaging construction simulator. Its road construction mechanics and realistic environments are impressive. However, it also feels underdeveloped and lacking in customization, which previous Saber Interactive games have. In addition, clunky UI and a plethora of bugs ultimately hold RoadCraft back from realizing its full potential. While dedicated fans of road engineering and construction simulators might enjoy the game’s granular control and visual feedback, “RoadCraft” requires significant improvements and additions before it can truly compete with established players in the genre. It’s a game with a strong concept but needs a lot more work before it’s ready for prime time. The foundation is there, but the road ahead is still under construction.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Pokémon Legends: Z-A isn’t afraid to make some much-needed modernizations. However, the small world and repetitive gameplay loop make it not the shiniest of the Pokémon games.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The simple gameplay mechanics, slow pacing and amount of focus the game requires may turn off some gamers off. However, those who are open minded, love exploration and want an emotional experience will enjoy the game.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    It is basically your favorite retro racing game with enhanced graphics and better sound effects.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Offworld Trading Company is a good game, with some solid gameplay mechanics, polished visuals and intuitive controls.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    FIFA 22 is the improvement that many fans have been waiting for. Shifting the focus away from pace, the game has managed to achieve a new level of realism. Due to HyperMotion Technology, players act and move intelligently, increasing strategic possibilities in offensive and defensive scenarios. With a litany of tweaks and refinements, FIFA 22 is the best iteration of the sport in the franchise.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    As a compilation, it doesn't break any new ground; however, if you are a fan of classic fighting games and want to excuse to head back down memory lane then Marvel Vs. Capcom Origins is a purchase you likely won't regret.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    In the end, if you’re a fan of Dying Light, you’re going to be a fan of The Following. It has everything you already love, gives you more of it and then throws in some vehicles as well to spice things up.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It’s deceptively simple appearance belies a ton of content for a modest price, and if you’re in the mood for a game that is great for quick attempts or extended marathons, you’d do well to give this game a shot.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Mutant Mudds Super Challenge is a tough recommendation for those new to the series or the more casual of platforming fans. But for the most hardcore of hardcore retro inspired fans longing for a true challenge, you may have a new favorite on your hands.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Shadows of Adam does an admirable job of choosing what to excavate from games of yore. The result is a beautiful trip to yesterday, one that doesn’t waste time getting there. Shadows of Adam is a delightful retro experience.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Flywrench is a treat. It’s amazing how Messhof has transmuted the very basic activity of controlling a little bendy line through a minimalistic level, into the feeling of being some kind of superhero. When the music is hitting just right, and you’re flipping through those colored gates at breakneck speeds the game feels somehow important. Like getting to the end of the level has something riding on it. Then you remember that you’re just flapping a little line around the bare skeleton of a game… which makes the illusion all the more impressive.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    The game’s new modes don’t merge either playstyle together well enough to justify any of them, and I can’t imagine they are easy enough to appeal to the child demographic that the game’s aesthetic and adventure mode are clearly aimed towards.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Despite a few nitpicks, Atomicrops is, in many ways, is a superb experience. It’s a harmonious blend between completely unique ideas and straightforward, simple mechanics. It’s tough as nails, but not discouragingly punishing. It doesn’t overwhelm the player with a surfeit of nuances to learn, yet it offers enough perks and gameplay modifiers to keep you always stumbling upon something new. For an indie title that seeks to present physical challenge and old-school, arcade thrill in place of a meaningful narrative, it accomplishes its mission beautifully. If this were a true arcade game, I’d have spent all my quarters long, long ago.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The general vibes I got from playing Phogs! are almost identical to those I felt with Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle as I felt like anything could be around any corner and I never knew what to expect. If you’re looking for a puzzle game that will cheer you up through hard times, Phogs! will put a smile on your ‘phace’.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    When The Past Was Around tells a story without uttering a single word of dialogue, using simple but beautiful music and a masterful, unique art style to communicate it. If I’m falling back on popular buzzwords too much when describing it, know that it deserves better. Better yet, make yourself a cup of tea, wrap yourself in a familiar blanket, and find out for yourself.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The ever-changing labyrinth, brimming with creative design choices, renders Crown Trick greater than the sum of its parts. There is only ever a dull moment when the player gets very, very unlucky. Otherwise, the game is a revolving door of “wow” encounters, colorful combat, and epic loot drops. It’s the amalgamation of turn-based RPGs, Chess, and dungeon crawlers in one erratic rogue-lite package. So if you want to exercise that brain matter, feel free to give this experience a go.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sadly, I cannot claim that Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot + A New Power Awakens Set is the complete experience. But for the same price as the base game on any other console, the Switch version is definitely the way to go for new players. Anyone who already owns the base game and DLC on other systems might only be interested for portability purposes. Any Dragon Ball Z fan, who has not played Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot, need to do themselves a favor and play this strange hybrid of cinematic storytelling, 3D fighting game aerial combat, JRPG mechanics, and open world exploration.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Either alone or with a buddy, Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons is a good time. It updates a decades-old beat ’em up franchise by adding roguelike mechanics that actually harmonize pretty well. The gameplay is accessible but plenty challenging, and the large roster of unlockable characters keeps things interesting.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you are a pinball fan, Pinball M is a no-brainer. The tables, their campaigns, and the extra play modes make for a solid package. If you’ve never been a pinball fan but have fond feelings for any of the franchises mentioned, Pinball M may be the game to convert you.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Little Kitty, Big City is one of those rare games that appeal to all ages without dumbing anything down. It’s a short and relaxing romp that will make you appreciate your feline companions that much more. If you love cats you’ll enjoy this game. If you don’t, maybe Little Kitty, Big City will melt your monstrous heart.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    I was pleasantly surprised and had an enjoyable time playing with multiple characters and building their skill trees to suit my play style. Without the cooperative mode, I would have been done with the game quite quickly, but being able to play with friends and strategize in the harder difficulties is worth the price of admission.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    With the many unique classes, the art style, humor and polish put forth by PopCap, Plants vs Zombies: Battle for Neighborville all culminates into a great time. You’ll lose hours blasting pesky plants or ridiculous zombies as your favorite characters. While it’s the third entry in the series, it still manages to stay fresh enough to welcome returning veterans and new players alike. If you’re into quirky shooters with a sense of humor, this is the best time to jump in and see what Crazy Dave is all about.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    With a lucky roll of the map, a skilled trio, and lots of practice, Nightreign provides transcendent moments of fun and accomplishment. It's a far more complex and nuanced battle royale than some of its more populist contemporaries. In its release form at least, Nightreign has a few limitations, like a somewhat unrewarding solo mode, no AI party members, and no duos. Still, while it may be a game that few Souls fans thought to consider essential, Nightreign is an unexpected gift that will no doubt be a new addiction for many.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Featuring stunning visuals, strong storyline and tense gameplay, Republique Remastered is quite easily one of the better stealth games I have played in quite some time.
    • COGconnected
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Mega Man Legacy Collection is a great retrospective for long time fans, and the perfect introduction to the series for curious new fans.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 55 Critic Score
    Starfield is a broad and ambitious game that falls significantly short of the mark whether compared to previous Bethesda efforts or other entries in the space RPG landscape like No Man’s Sky. There are some competent gameplay pieces, but they feel like they were built in the vacuum of space without radio contact, and never really came together when everything got wired up. Some die-hard Bethesda fans might be able to find the fun I was looking for, but I’d recommend tempering expectations at the very least. If you’re a PS5-only player who missed out on the 2023 release, tread with caution. The PS5 version lured me back like a toxic ex who promised they’d changed, and what I found confirmed what I’d already known. Starfield is easily the weakest single-player game in Bethesda’s catalogue, and a sour glimpse into what we might have to expect out of The Elder Scrolls 6.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If this review hasn't spelled it out for you already, there is a lot of content and potential included in this package to make it more than worth your while and keep you coming back for more as Nintendo Land is a pretty darn good game.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Its laid-back gameplay and overall simplicity are extremely peaceful and addicting, but I would advise that new players manage their expectations. Because of my concern for how new players will respond to the lack of meaningful content, I do question whether this specific remake was necessary. Nevertheless, veterans and nostalgic fans who are looking forward to revisiting this game will find a classic installment that maintains all of its original charm and modesty — and does so better than ever.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I’m between a rock and a hard place with MLB The Show 22. On the one hand, I still think Sony San Diego delivers the best simulation sports game on the market today. On the other hand, if it weren’t for the new commentary team, I’d feel like I’m playing last year’s game. If you were expecting 22 to be a big year for baseball, you might need to adjust your expectations. Only when the developers choose to genuinely flesh out their most popular modes (and redesign that damn locker room!) will this series get back to where it belongs.

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