DarkZero's Scores

  • Games
For 1,718 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 38% higher than the average critic
  • 6% same as the average critic
  • 56% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.4 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 70
Highest review score: 100 The Bug Butcher
Lowest review score: 10 101-in-1 Sports Party Megamix
Score distribution:
1718 game reviews
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Cult of the Lamb is a good game. It’s a lot of fun. But I have this nagging sensation it could have been so, so much more interesting, and it leaves me wanting.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Can I recommend Death Stranding? Not really. I don’t think it can be directly labelled ‘good’. It’s a full price, full length, but all too frequently sluggish game. However, if you’re a Kojima fan, I don’t think you’ll want to miss out on this deranged roller coaster ride of an experience and that really elevates it for me.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers is a solid taster into sampling a blast from the past. It’s obviously aged a bit, which is clearly seen in this port, but the story is good and the rewarding, deep combat mechanics survive the test of time to make this a solid, satisfying RPG to play in 2013.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A year after its PS5 debut, Rise of the Ronin arrives on PC with Team Ninja’s combat prowess at its core—fast, fluid, and deeply satisfying. The story is engaging enough, though its pacing can feel slow at times, while the open world is filled with familiar tropes—plenty of icons, bandits, and the occasional stray cat, but also plenty of that great combat to experience. PC performance is underwhelming, and optimisation could certainly use some work, though there’s hope for future improvements. It’s not a masterpiece, but Rise of the Ronin stands out as a game where the real excitement lies in its combat, not the world it inhabits.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Moving to an open-world concept is a brilliant step forward for the Pokémon series, but currently, this release lacks the Nintendo quality that we expect from their published titles. In terms of mechanics, vision and gameplay elements of Pokémon, this is a shift in the right direction, and it only makes me get excited to see what future games do on new Nintendo hardware, whenever that arrives. I still recommend Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to fans of these wonderful little critters or to people who grew tired of the original formula, as the shift to an open world makes for a more exciting experience. Just be prepared to suffer from something that is very un-Nintendo like with this game’s inconsistent frame rates and the occasional glitch, which will put a dent in what should have been a wonderful new direction for the extremely popular creature collecting series.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I don’t know what it is with Capcom recently, but they seem to be getting the most important parts of their fighting games – the fighting systems and mechanics – spot on, but dropping the ball in other departments. That said, Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite is too much fun to simply advise people to ignore, it’s a good fighting game surrounded by the unpolished presentation, but it does enough to be able to recommend it to fighting fans, but less so for the Marvel comic/film fanatics.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Moving to an open-world concept is a brilliant step forward for the Pokémon series, but currently, this release lacks the Nintendo quality that we expect from their published titles. In terms of mechanics, vision and gameplay elements of Pokémon, this is a shift in the right direction, and it only makes me get excited to see what future games do on new Nintendo hardware, whenever that arrives. I still recommend Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to fans of these wonderful little critters or to people who grew tired of the original formula, as the shift to an open world makes for a more exciting experience. Just be prepared to suffer from something that is very un-Nintendo like with this game’s inconsistent frame rates and the occasional glitch, which will put a dent in what should have been a wonderful new direction for the extremely popular creature collecting series.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The issue is not with the game's creators, who haven't made a bad game at all. It's with the community that they have catered for with it. Words like 'PWNING' popping up when you're on a killing spree, however tongue and cheek, still add to the vibe that these overly-aggressive, humiliating or just downright internetty behaviours are encouraged.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Shooting Nazis until they explode is a fun diversion, but there’s a better game that does that, and it’s called Wolfenstein: The New Order.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The best thing about Bound in Blood is that it feels different from all the modern first person shooters on the market.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The package as a whole isn’t as polished and deep as NHL 10, but its accessibility and fun factor certainly counts for something. It looks great too, and with online modes that extend the challenge and lifespan of the game, NHL 2K10 has come as close as its ever done to matching EA’s game.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fans of LittleBigPlanet will surely enjoy LittleBigPlanet Karting, as it manages to take the essence of Media Molecule's platforming joy and translate that into a solid and enjoyable kart racer, with all the charm you would expect. It's a shame the developers felt that they needed to take every aspect of LittleBigPlanet and use that as a base to create this game, as it has hurt it in some regards and has made the online multiplayer an awkward mode to participate in.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A smart adaptation that replicates the action of the series without resorting to a typical hack n’ slash knockoff. The cluttered camera and controls take some adjusting, but otherwise this is the first real attempt at successfully adapting the colossal anime hit in videogame form and is another proud notch on Omega Forces’ belt (it also increases the anticipation for Berserk, their next anime offering later this year).
    • 57 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite all of the bloodshed and loss of soldiers you may become fond of (Major Noob and Private Pyle were two of my best), Tiny Troopers is a cute little war game that takes me back to my Hogs of War playing days, what with the patriotic music and funny comments.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Ghostrunner: Project_Hel offers a nice addition to the base game, upholding the original game’s amazing soundtrack and visuals. The expansion brings an extra couple of hours of that addictive live, die, repeat puzzle and action format that somehow the developers have managed to make work without frustration. The impact this time around is not as awe-inspiring as the surprise hit of the main game, but Project_Hel takes those foundations and adds a little twist with more combat-based scenarios to find solutions to, but does nothing to push the initial design forward that was formed in Ghostrunner. More of the same, then, although, not a negative on this DLC, since the original was not a lengthy game either. This is one for the fans, giving those more of what they were asking for until the sequel arrives.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Steam is looking to have a promising future for fans of Japanese role-playing games, and while Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth1 might not be the best of the bunch that people were hoping to see arrive on the platform, the game is still a good, light-hearted and comical RPG that does a good job of honouring and having fun in regards to the topic of video games, while also being given a wonderful performance boost from PC hardware.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In an era deprived of 2D mascots and platformers, it’s refreshing to see something like Shantae continue to persist and impress, and strengthens the anticipation for the kickstarter-funded sequel.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Although the mechanics may get same-y in the long run, due to the lack of much variation, The Flame in the Flood is pure art. It’s full of emotion and is abundantly clear that it was made as a labour of love, making the lack of a true challenge or any real replayability an even bigger shame as it falls short of being great.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Slight presentation issues aside, Hatsune Miku: Project Diva f is a good entry for newcomers to get into the music rhythm genre.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's a good game and the zero gravity gameplay is innovative; Shattered Horizon just lacks that extra oomph of content – be it more weapons, character classes, RPG style upgrades or even vehicle sections - to improve longevity.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sorcery Saga: The Curse of the Great Curry God is a title that manages to get across the understanding of a roguelike in a rather simple manner. While its concept might come across as a baby version of the genre, what lies beneath the cute visuals is a punishing game that won’t let you off easily.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Without a doubt, Capcom has successfully re-marketed what should have been a series of downloadable content packs into a fully-fledged disc release.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s not going make your mind EXPLODE, but it’s a really nice little game with plenty of charm and a clarity of design that you rarely see these days - especially on the DS, stuffed full of shovelware as it is.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Oozi does very little wrong, and it's a title that remains manages to maintain enjoyability. While it may not have much to offer beyond its visuals, it's a safe game. It's a title that won't leave you disappointed. Granted, it may not be a title you remember as vividly as say Super Meat Boy or I wanna Be The Guy, but it's a loyal game that will entertain you for the time you play it.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Prinny 2 is a niche product that won't appeal to most people.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Captain Velvet Meteor: The Jump+ Dimensions is a game that will not waste your time and is a decent, easy-to-understand tactical title that appeals to a wide range of players. It could do with more objective variety and increased hero count in the game’s battles, but this could easily be expanded on in a sequel. It’s all about imagination and that can go many places for a game like this. As for our hero’s first adventure, it’s a solid and different experience that makes it a worthwhile play for anyone looking for some unadulterated tactical fun.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Earth Defense Force 6 distinguishes itself as the most compelling entry in the series, successfully drawing me back into its captivating gameplay loop, a feat that previous titles had failed to achieve. Although this could easily be labelled EDF 5.5 due to asset re-usage and limited changes, the game ultimately delivers more of what fans cherish about the franchise, and new people coming in will find this all fresh and gain the best experience. If you never have been a fan, then this release will not alter your perception. Those in search of a radical change to the series may also be disappointed; however, there is hope that future instalments will introduce a fresh array of classes and features, as EDF 6 currently represents the apex of gameplay content available in the series.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Lunistice has been created to give fans of platformers who are on their way to middle age something to reminisce with. The developer has done a great job in replicating what made the platformers for the PlayStation and Saturn so enjoyable that I could not help but smile as I played. The game brings tight controls, silky smooth gameplay, and a wonderful visual style that upholds the charm of those consoles of old; there is something aesthetically pleasing about it. Lunistice might not be a long game, but what there is a blast to play. Not all games have to push the boundaries of the medium, some can just give us a jolly good time. Lunistice does that without needing hours of your time, yet engages the player with its platforming and level design. Lunistice is a good pick for anyone who wants to enjoy a platformer that feels stripped straight from the late 90s for an afternoon or two. Plus, at an incredible price of £4.99, checking out this blast to the past will not hurt anyone’s gaming budget.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s safe to say that despite its short (and irritating) story mode, repetitive gameplay and terrible indoor sections, Mirror’s Edge is a real kick up the collective arse for the first person genre.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It falters in just enough places to make you think before you hand over your money.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    To summarize, Apotheon is a fairly good game, but I feel more could have been added, and certain aspects certainly could have been handled better than they were upon the game’s port to a console.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It strikes me as ironic that the game is named Overlord when really the minions are the stars of the show.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The track editor is brilliant, enabling people to go delirious with imagination, though sadly, sharing these creations is hindered by the poor UI and filtering options. I also dislike the concept behind blind boxes, it is just not a good way to unlock more cars, too many dupes for it to be anything other than frustrating. Apart from those cons, I have good words for Hot Wheels Unleashed. This is a solid recommendation for anyone who enjoys arcade racers, especially ones that go more for skill and speed over the randomness of power-ups.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Even with the repetitive nature of All Zombies Must Die, the overall experience is fun. It's recommended for times when you need to play something with a few buddies. It's not earthshattering, nor will it change your opinion on zombie games or twin-stick shooters. But for the cheap entry fee, it will supply entertainment for you. Just take it steady like a zombie and play it in small spurts.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    All in all there’s a lot of play here, although it is most fun playing with friends.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    As it stands, this surprisingly good and dark, bloody horror experience is a refreshing entry to play with friends for a few hours that will surely leave a lasting impression or induce many nightmares for days to come.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    As a game by itself it kind of feels empty and soulless. Get a mate to join with you and that is forgotten as the fun level rises considerably. It’s not a bad game in single player, but you feel as if it really was meant for humans and not COMs to play with you.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This game really only applies to the anime crowd, as it’s not for everyone, but if you are one of those few who don’t mind some questionable young ladies popping tits and ass in the air after each boss fight, then you will find a good, humorous dungeon crawler in Dungeon Travelers 2: The Royal Library & the Monster Seal.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I wasn’t very fulfilled by Firewatch. It’s not that I’m not susceptible to a story told in this format – on the contrary, what kept my interest for the duration was how the story was delivered. But its shadow boxing with video gamey elements didn’t amount to anything substantial, and when everything else ends up hinging on the story on offer, the resulting experience sadly feels less than essential.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Scored as a trilogy and compared to the first two titles, the game scores lower than the previous two. But this isn’t the same style of gameplay and we weren’t lied to about it being changed. It’s a different type of game and should be played like one.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Hyperdimension Neptunia MK2 is easily a better game than its predecessor, though it's still not going to be for everyone. The game is slotted into a very niche market, a market where people love anime and moe-infused girl characters. Don't like this? Then you'll hate this game, simple.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    All in all, Episode II was a definite progression from Episode I. The bite-sized series updates aren't totally where they need to be, but they're getting there. With a little more focus on speed, fluidity, and a 'back to basics' attitude, SEGA will have a winner on their hands that will be almost as cherished as their best work of art to date.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite the shortcomings in interaction and gameplay complexity, Still Wakes the Deep has an appeal through its linear, but high-quality set pieces and engaging storytelling. The game’s ability to draw players in and keep them invested in the unfolding narrative is a testament to The Chinese Room’s proficiency in creating immersive experiences. By focusing on the development of compelling characters, a wonderful and personalised environment with the oil rig that is mysteriously engulfed in unknown biological matter, combining it with an appealing plot helps succeed in delivering an entertaining game. Players will find themselves engrossed in the eerie atmosphere and suspenseful moments that Still Wakes the Deep has to offer, even with the limitations of its linear structure and simple gameplay. Plus the game’s splendid visuals are a bonus that adds to the overall atmospheric setting.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The gameplay is hindered by basic mechanics and somewhat awkward melee combat, which detracts from the overall enjoyment. However, the game excels in creating a compelling atmosphere, and the gameplay maintains a smooth flow. In the end, Hollowbody provides a nostalgic experience for fans of British survival horror at the price of a large takeaway pizza (£14.20), encapsulating both the triumphs and shortcomings of the genre, making it a worthwhile choice for an engaging evening for fans of horror games that like them with a sprinkle of nostalgia.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Insomniac took a risk with this title, but I think it has paid off. It is a fun game to play with a friend and is worthy of being called Ratchet and Clank.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For what it is worth for fans, RoboCop: Rogue City is a brilliant RoboCop game, but only a decent first-person shooter.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This series has been disappointing so far. This episode is probably the best yet but the glitches and just general lack of improvement in the writing mean that it is still substandard. The last episode would have to be incredible to draw everything together into a meaningful arc which lives up to its predecessors.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    As it stands, Waveform has an excitement curve as bendy as its core gameplay conceit. A wholly unique experience with brilliant mechanics at the centre, its only misstep is its overreach preventing it from shining as bright as it could have.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It may be a fixed narrative with little alterations, but it’s still an interesting narrative, but should that fail at any point than this entire castle built by Telltale may collapse.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Banner Saga offers a good look into the world Stoic has created for this three-part adventure. It’s a depressing, but beautiful tale of survival against all odds, one that creates a developed plot and theme without degrading the characters or world to appear mature.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Nonograms are nice little time-killers, especially on the go, which is obviously lost on a PC. Secondly, a touch screen is easily the best way to play. It makes everything so much easier to control, being able to fill in complete lines at a time with a single stroke, which is much harder when using a mouse. In fact, I disliked using my mouse so much I grabbed my graphics tablet and used that instead – much better, but unfortunately a luxury not everybody has access to. Honestly it just feels wrong to play picross on a PC. Using such a large screen for small, simple puzzles and not being able to take them with you is really awful and I can’t say I’ll ever be playing a picross game on the platform again.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Boing! Docomodake is a difficult game to gauge. At times it can be painfully frustrating - with some puzzles requiring a complete level-restart if failed initially – and it’s criminal just how short it is. But on the contrary, Boing! is filled with intuitive puzzles, a genuinely creative control scheme, and some truly amusing moments.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Hidden Agenda is a game built to be played with friends, but ultimately I found the most fun in single player. It is also a game made to be finished in one sitting, but I grew to like it more after two playthroughs. Wrapping the adventure up in the guise of a party game does it no favours, but it proficiently overcomes these issues to be a worthwhile experience. I’d love to see this series have another outing, and hope for a more ambitious sequel if it were to continue.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Town of Light is a beautiful title, with great sound and reworked voice-overs that improve on the original release, but it needs harder puzzles, some work on the camera and maybe be a bit darker to give the flashlight some purpose. Besides that, The Town of Light accomplishes what it promises, and is a game people need to try, because it is something different to experience within the video game medium.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Warriors Orochi 3 Ultimate allows newcomers to see the start of the improvements to the Warriors series, which at one point was suffering from its own lack of ambition, and turn itself into a worthwhile hack and slash addict’s wet dream.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It won't be remembered for breaking any moulds in the first person shooter genre and probably won't spark up everyone's enthusiasm since it's not as good as Modern Warfare 2. Instead Medal of Honor should be looked at as an alternative to the hyperactive Call of Duty series and be played by people who want to have a more reasonable interpretation of a military experience.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It falters in just enough places to make you think before you hand over your money.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Perhaps when all four episodes are released and the boasted 200+ microgames are all available it’ll be worth jumping back in for a few rounds, like you would with WarioWare, but until then I’d say it’s more like a comical RPG than anything else. A great time, but far from the ‘party’ experience some may go in looking for.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The overall experience may be familiar, but hasn’t grown tiresome yet to affect its scare-factor. Grab some headphones, turn off the lights, and try not to wake up anyone living in the same household with your screams of terror.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There’s a lot to like, and equally as much to dislike.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The thing is that when everything does work, Brink is a fantastic fun online shooter, with just enough stolen ideas all rolled into one package that it ends up feeling very unique.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In the end, this is a good attempt at blending genres together to give a satisfyingly challenging RPG.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Of course, it won’t make cooking any more entertaining if you already find it a bit of a chore, but if you just want to be entertained you could also sit back a look at Gordon Ramsey curse his way through an episode of The F Word.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In truth, not much of the core gameplay has changed, and it is still a GT game, albeit one that even more perfectly recreates what it’s like to get behind a wheel dream cars. In the same vein, all the vehicles on show have even more personality than ever before.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Deck 13 took what they learnt from working on Lords of the Fallen and added their own ideas to allow The Surge to be more than a pure Dark Souls clone. The combat is fantastic, engaging, and features a neat limb target system, and the skill progression is refreshingly open to experimentation, but the overall experience is sadly hampered by the lack of enemy variety and a monotonous sci-fi location, which has so much potential wasted with the current industrial environment. Even with those faults, The Surge is a better game than Lords of the Fallen, and one that I can recommend to fans of the popularised action RPG subgenre, because there is a good, fun experience to be had with The Surge, and some of its unique ideas bring solid additions to From Software’s concrete formula.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In the end, it’s the writing which defines these Telltale adaptations, and Game of Thrones is no exception. In fact, it’s thanks to the original source material’s penchant for sudden and shocking character deaths and betrayals that this game has potential to keep players glued for each subsequent episode.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With a focus on story, Adam Wolfe is branching out for a new audience, maybe those that are interesting in games with a big focus on story, such as Telltale Games’ latest titles, and while its presentation is different to those games, Adam Wolfe has the looks, a somewhat cliche, but intriguing story that keeps things moving to make for a decent mixture of adventure and hidden puzzle solving that might be enough for it to branch out from the genre’s main audience.
    • 56 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Spelunker HD has all the elements of a decent throwback renewed with high definition graphics.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In spite of it not being quite original, it’s an enjoyable effort all the same.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s not a fantastic JRPG, but as titles go, it’s a concrete, entertaining video game with a group of Moe girls full of charm and silly banter.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It may not be a must-have remaster such as other PS4 re-releases, but fans of the Vita version and especially newcomers should have no issue double-dipping on this latest port.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Speaking from my heart, I maintain that this is, in a number of ways, a compromised version of Saints Row: The Third that the new coat of paint doesn’t really make up for. However, if you were fortunate enough to play the game back when it first came out, especially when it was working fully, this is a very pretty way to look back at it.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're one of the many who've grown tired of spikey blonde protagonists and thirty hour corridors, then maybe it's time you let Nier convince you that there is room for change.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    When all is said and done, there is enough charm on show in Spoiler Alert to make it a fun game to play.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The best part of this adventure is the characters, with Ceville, Ambrosius, the undead pirate and the lisping demon all possessing the potential for further development. I would welcome them back in a slightly more humourus and random comedic sequel.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    World of Final Fantasy is an incredibly charming and love-filled traditional RPG that will give fans of the series a fuzzy feeling inside until the next big entry in the franchise arrives.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This title is solely aimed at the strategy crowd and does not pull punches for people who don’t put in the time to learn how this game works.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s actually quite good in multiplayer and if you enjoy setting records then the same can be said for the competition side of it.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sublevel Zero Redux has helped remind us that 6DOF gameplay is something that should return in bigger bulk, and fans that enjoy games like Descent will see things here to relish – tight controls, fluid movement and the challenge. The small issues with Sublevel Zero Redux come with its procedurally-generated and roguelite elements, mainly the former, where levels are not as engaging as they could be, and so its down to the punchy, fun combat and the constant supply of improved weapons to keep the game engaging until the end of its multi-campaign, rather than staying after it is over to improve runs.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Biped might be just the thing for a couple who are finding the distance trying, or for connecting with a friend you’re missing. Don’t let the pleasant art direction or merry soundtrack fool you, though, it’s childishly charming yet devilishly demanding – those challenge stages don’t take it easy! Make sure not to give up if it turns out to be a little harder than expected. There’s a nifty solo mode to practice in and I’ve found it’s a game that generally rewards mastery in small chunks as one overcomes each of its elegant mechanics. I wonder if that playful creativity is a part of NEXT Studios’ ideation culture or if it was just a fluke, I guess I’ll have to go find out and I can only hope to find more in a similar vein.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    History will best remember Red Alert 3 as being a good multiplayer RTS. At worst it’s an embarrassing parody of the 1996 classic. For a game whose ancestor was the original Red Alert, many will feel underwhelmed by the overall package, but you can’t argue against the well-proven mutliplayer gameplay.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I enjoyed my time with Cradle, but I dare say many will not. Its detailed, although imprecise storytelling gives many of its suitors reasons to dislike it, to not understand it, and at worst give up on it. Regardless, I believe there is something quite special at work here.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Overall, Little Big Workshop is a relaxing play for people who enjoy the genre, outside of that it might be a little too off-putting for some people unfamiliar with this type of simulation game, especially with all the number crunching. Aesthetically, it’s very pleasing – I gained enjoyment watching my the little workers do their business around the workshop. For anyone who has a head for numbers or just want to try out a different simulation game, I can recommend giving Little Big Workshop the green light to go ahead with it.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Story Mode – Episode 2 ups the action and engages with its characters, making for a short but enjoyable hour; however, Telltale still struggles to give the player meaningful choices, balance tone, and create a unique story – though they’re well on their way.
    • DarkZero
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There is definitely something to like with Guardians of Middle-Earth and Monolith has done a good job breaking down the key points of MOBA and bringing it to consoles with its own controls.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In a time where rival games are doing it better, it was always going to be difficult to rival Streets of Rage 4 without doing something exceptional. Mayhem Brawler is not that, but I am not sure it was ever trying to be. Instead, I think the developers wanted to give fans more decent beat ’em up action, which the developers have successfully done.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s fair to say Battle for Bikini Bottom was hardly a revelation back in 2003 and it’s definitely not one now, even with the cult popularity the original has gained due to the speedrunning community. What it is, however, is a fun time that nobody can knock, no matter how simple it may be. The boss battles may be poor, the jokes may often fall flat, and the ending may be completely anticlimactic, but any faults here are actually faults of the original that this new version has masterfully remade. Rehydrated is a total success in bringing the original back to life and it somehow looks truly beautiful, especially considering the obviously juvenile nature of the source material. It’s not something I would outwardly recommend to everyone but it did make me reconsider my pipeline of games and if I might not just want to throw in a couple of mindless simple ones, in order to relax between the giants.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you and a friend or partner are into this cosy niche corner of gaming and are happy to spend an afternoon burning your brains together, The Past Within is a must play. Mostly because it’s good, but also sort of because there aren’t many other options that you likely haven’t already exhausted. If I could get my way, I’d be playing new games just like this weekly. But the sad truth is they’re a rarity, and we should cherish them when they’re here. So make sure to get comfortable, grab a relaxing drink, and hang out with your ally on a discord chat or over the phone. There’s no rush, no time limits or anything. Just enjoy what makes these types of teamwork-focused games so special by spending time with someone you care about and you’re sure to have a great time.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game manages to do this throwback to Chrono Trigger with care, while throwing in a few new ideas of its own, even if some don’t work in its favour.
    • 49 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I don't think anyone who had realistic expectations about Duke Nukem Forever will be disappointed with what we've finally gotten. It's not brilliant, but it is a good solid old school shooter, which feels like its predecessor. I just hope this isn't the last we've heard from the Duke, and that we won't have to wait so long next time.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fans of the series will enjoy, while anyone who is looking for a handheld first-person shooter, well, you really have no choice in the matter, since as it stands, Killzone: Mercenary is the best first-person shooter you can buy for a handheld device, although, the competition isn’t exactly fierce.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Close to the Sun is one game I can still recommend for anyone who enjoys these slower type of adventure games. It won’t be the best atmospheric game you have come across, and I feel it’s a title that only needs to be played once, but that doesn’t stop the game from offering a fascinating setting and dazzling atmosphere.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    While we shouldn’t ignore its problems with the flow of the story and illogical puzzles, this shouldn’t stop anyone who is a follower of the genre from jumping into this world of magic and talking animals to enjoy one kid’s dream of a delightful summer adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Bonsai Barber stands out as one of the better WiiWare titles available to buy, but it isn’t an absolute must-have. Cute visuals and a quirky style accompany this entertaining if somewhat shallow game.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Don’t get me wrong, it might have the odd ‘scourge’ attacks, which are revamped levels up to the teeth with powerful monsters and dangerous threats, and a few unlockable wave-based combat trials (a stretch goal that was reached), but it really doesn’t do anything we haven’t seen before. However, bringing it all together with a solid design, satisfying controls, and being the cherry-on-top nostalgia-fest that it is really seals the deal. A splendid example of the phrase “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The best thing about Bound in Blood is that it feels different from all the modern first person shooters on the market.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Devil May Cry 4 despite its best efforts is still a puritan affair. There are many flaws that will put off newcomers, but for those who can tolerate those flaws there is an addictive, enjoyable and rewarding game just waiting to be played.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite finding one or two things fiddly and frustrating, How to Survive is a good game. I found the survival aspect addictive, challenging and most importantly, thrilling.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sure it has some shortcomings with its scripted AI design and linear levels, but at a cheap entry price of £9.99 and some solid cooperative gameplay, this is for gamers looking for some fun with friends.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game has a solid concept that it sticks to and evolves with new ways to play with its ageing mechanics that some players will be genuinely surprised at how smart the puzzles become. But, I cannot help but feel the game is missing that final polish, that spark that puts it on the same pedestal as Celeste and a few others. There are some irritating issues with the controls, which spoil what would otherwise be a quality puzzle platformer. I can say that fans of the genre will entertain with what Ageless delivers, and anyone who enjoys a challenging game, if sometimes frustrating, will find something to like here.

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