GameCritics' Scores

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For 4,098 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 37% higher than the average critic
  • 6% same as the average critic
  • 57% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 6.8 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 68
Highest review score: 100 Citizen Sleeper
Lowest review score: 0 Mass Effect: Pinnacle Station
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,967 out of 4098
  2. Mixed: 1,535 out of 4098
  3. Negative: 596 out of 4098
4104 game reviews
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    • 79 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Atelier Escha & Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky
    It's not perfect, but the flaws are so minor that I can't help but grade this the same as I did Meruru—a JRPG experience that anyone with even the most passing interest in the genre owes it to themselves to play.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Burnout Paradise Remastered
    In an era full of triple-A self-seriousness and open-world games that feel like they’re little more than busy work, Criterion reminds us that we don’t all need to follow the same template. Over a decade after release, Burnout Paradise is still the king of open-world racers, proving that a simple gameplay loop is often the most effective.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Volgarr the Viking
    Volgarr the Viking is an amazing accomplishment. Its developers have taken the skeleton of a classic title and transformed it into the greatest game the 80s never produced.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Dragon's Crown
    The lack of half-naked men aside, it's impossible not to see what a superior, rewarding effort Dragon's Crown turned out to be—it looks great, it feels great, it's smart and deep, and it utterly revitalizes a genre that went stale years ago. Without overstating the case, this game is a must-play tour-de-force that surprised the hell out of me, and I couldn't be happier about it.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime
    While the concept and content are golden, what makes LDS a legitimate contender for being the best couple game of all time is how simple the controls are—manning the cannons or shield is as easy as getting to the correct station and using the thumbstick to aim.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun
    It’s not hyperbole when I say that by recognizing all of its ifs and thoroughly ironing them out, Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is one of the best tactics title I’ve ever played, and it’s certainly one of the finest games I’ve played this year. As a masterpiece in nearly every respect, I salute Mimimi Productions and eagerly look forward to their next work.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    7th Dragon III Code: VFD
    Being a bit soft on the narrative is a sin that many games commit, and while I’m generally a big story guy, 7th Dragon III: Code VFD performs so fantastically in all other aspects that I can’t scold it for not making me examine the human condition. For players who want an excellent RPG-lite or a nonstandard dungeon crawler, this game is the total package—it’s got some of the most entertaining mechanics I’ve seen in years, it’s as smooth as butter to play, and everything about it oozes polish. It’s not only going to be one of the best 3DS games released this year, but one of the best 3DS titles overall.
    • 95 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas
    This is arguably the most important videogame this year - yes, even more important than "Halo 2" - not only because it's a superbly crafted videogame, but because it's also a bona fide sociological artifact, one that manages to effectively evoke a specific time and place in American history—in this case, a hot and hazy California during the nascent days of hip-hop culture.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Pathologic 2
    Pathologic 2 is a harsh, unwelcoming experience that took a lot out of me, but everything in it, no matter how odd or seemingly inconsequential, is setup for an eventual payoff. Players capable of embracing its dour atmosphere will be rewarded with one of gaming’s greatest narrative accomplishments — it’s an epic-length refutation of the idea that gratification can only come through success, that stories need to be about heroes, that “fun” is the only metric by which a game’s quality can be measured. Pathologic 2 is a masterpiece not in spite of its shortcomings, but because of them. There is truly nothing else like it.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Hardspace: Shipbreaker
    Hardspace: Shipbreaker is a masterpiece. It offers perfectly-tuned gameplay that dovetails flawlessly with the story that it’s telling, and it’s the rare example that manages to make its points entirely through mechanics — even if someone stripped out all of the dialogue, players would still understand what the game has to say about the crushing cycle of worker exploitation under capitalism. The fact that the developers went out of their way to build a believable world and great characters to help players empathize with the people trapped in this corrupt system shows how much they cared about making the best possible version of their work.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour
    All in all, Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour is the perfect homage to the original by capturing the essence of the classic while adding new visuals, audio and levels. Moreover, its humorous social commentary remains a welcome presence in a current scene that is sorely lacking it
    • 70 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fallout: New Vegas - Dead Money
    The adventure is of a satisfying size, the writing and characterizations are strong, and it offers an experience that is uniquely different from the main campaign. As a matter of fact, it even includes some surprising revelations that will entice players to play through the other three DLC episodes that follow. From every angle, Dead Money is a winning hand.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes
    Supermassive Games is responsible for the most compelling interactive movies around, and House of Ashes proves that the Dark Pictures Anthology is on solid footing after a divisive second entry. While it shares the same basic structure of the previous two games — a mismatched group explores an abandoned location, discovering the secrets of what happened there — it’s so wildly different in tone and theme that it feels nothing like the others. This was a big swing in a few different ways, and I’m glad to say that they knocked it out of the park.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 3 Portable
    This release does a fantastic job of appealing to the core fans of the series while also making the experience accessible to a new group of players.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Ori and the Will of the Wisps
    Moon Studios is now two-for-two on games that look as good as they handle, while also guiding players through a gamut of emotions. The team is reportedly doing something new for their next project, and hopefully they’ll nail it as handily as they’ve done with Ori. But even if they’re exposed as a one-trick pony, let it be known that in the crowded field of indie platformers about small, childlike protagonists trapped in dark, imposing worlds, no developer on the planet is better at it than Moon.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Blood Bowl 2
    Blood Bowl 2 captures everything that makes the board game great and makes it available to those not willing to shell out a hundred dollars on miniatures. The passion the developers have for their game is clear to see, and the result proves that their love was not misplaced—it's easy to see that Blood Bowl 2 is one of the greatest board game translations ever.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Gnosia
    Gnosia is a smart spin on visual novels, and a clever re-imagining of elements seen in the recent uber-hit Among Us. It’s an excellently addictive game on the strength of its mechanics alone, but is elevated by a strong story and neatly defined characters.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Splice
    Once again, Sony proves itself to be a welcome place for alternative experiences that don't easily fit the standard boxes, and Splice is one more that they can be proud of. I found it to be gracefully understated, masterfully elegant, and a puzzler that I enjoyed every minute with... Even those minutes when I had absolutely no idea where that final cell needed to go.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Serious Sam Double D XXL
    Double D was one of 2012's most pleasant surprises, a budget-priced promotional title that managed the unthinkable and outdid the game it was designed to get people excited about. Normally I'd be in favour of leaving well enough alone, but Mommy's Best Games has taken everything that worked about Double D and built something even more spectacular on top of it.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Okami HD
    Nearly a dozen years after it’s initial release, Okami remains a beautifully-realized vision that will still be enticing to players for a long time to come.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Unavowed
    Despite the minor flaws described above, Unavowed is truly something special, and it deserves every accolade it’s about to receive. I honestly can’t remember being as drawn into an adventure game as I was during this one, and the time just flew by. Simply put, Wadjet Eye’s newest title should be in every gamer’s library as soon as possible.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    JYDGE
    JYDGE isn’t very long, but it’s incredibly wide, and its winking embrace of ’80s-style ultraviolence should charm both devotees of the franchises that inspired it and anyone who can appreciate a clever shooter.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Divinity: Original Sin Enhanced Edition
    Difficulties with the interface aside, Divinity: Original Sin Enhanced Edition is an intriguing, challenging, relentlessly charming game that serves as a refreshing break from bleaker RPGs that have dominated the rest of the year. It absolutely shouldn't be overlooked by RPG fans who never played it on PC. For those who have played the original, enough has changed in the story and progression that the remastered edition is well worth a second purchase to play locally with friends.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Atelier Lydie & Suelle: The Alchemists and the Mysterious Paintings
    The map aside, this is yet another great title in the Atelier series. The stakes are high, the characters are likeable, and the gameplay is as good as it’s ever been. Every year I approach the newest Atelier game with a little trepidation – will this be the year they screw it up? Will the streak finally end? But for at least one more year, the answer is no. Gust has again delivered another fantastic JRPG that does the series proud.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Children of the Sun
    There were points where it made me feel over the moon with glee at a perfectly-chained series of strikes, and times when the plot left me deeply disconcerted in just the right way. It’s not gonna be a game for everyone, but for some, it’ll be an unforgettable ride.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Broforce
    Broforce is a conceptual triumph that could be successfully sold as a jokey bit of nostalgia, but what's truly amazing is how well it works on a moment-to-moment basis.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shovel Knight
    Shovel Knight's greatest feat is disguising itself as "old school" when it's design philosophy couldn't be any further from it. While at first glance it may seem like just another 8-bit homage, the quality and polish make it so much more. Rather than a spirited look at the past, Shovel Knight instead reminds us just how far game design has come
    • 77 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Door Kickers: Action Squad
    Hands down, Door Kickers: Action Squad is one of the best games to come to the Switch this year. Every inch is well-designed and smartly tuned, it stays challenging (but fair!) and fresh from start to finish, and there’s enough meat on its bones to satisfy anyone. It even does co-op, to boot. Simply put, it is the total package and a must-buy for any Switch owner craving 2D action.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Burnout 3: Takedown
    Takedown, whether it's making my heart pump or the hair stand up on the back of my neck, not only represents a dramatic step in the right direction for the series, but also for the racing game genre in general.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    ZEN Pinball 2: Portal Pinball
    The Portal add-on to Zen Pinball 2 is another excellent addition to the already-strong lineup of tables available, and having played most of the selections on offer, I'd say this one ranks right near the top. For anyone who loves Portal, pinball, or both, this is an absolute no-brainer.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner
    Everything the first game was not, and far more. Not only did the developers correct, expand and improve upon every aspect, they have authored one of the most utterly perfect synergies of gameplay, direction and storytelling that I've ever witnessed.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dandara
    That’s a minor flaw, however, in a game that is a sparkling and unique addition to the Metroidvania stable. While Dandara’s world has ostensibly little to do with Dandara the historical warrior apart from inspiration, I hope that players finish the game and feel as interested to explore her story as I was to explore Long Hat House’s gorgeous and intricate world.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes - Definitive Edition
    I have no idea what brought this updated version of a 14-year-old game into being, but I’m quite glad that it’s received this second chance with a new audience. By anyone’s standard, this is a superior work that belongs in every puzzle fan’s library.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    And Yet It Moves
    Of course, And Yet It Moves only scratches the surface of possibility, but it is a journey absolutely worth taking.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Forza Horizon 2
    With a huge map, hundreds of cars, and countless racetrack possibilities, Forza Horizon 2 is a stellar open world racing game.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Chaos Theory
    It's not too often when a series can challenge me to think of the endless possibilities for future installments all because of a sound formula established by its flawed first installment.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Rogue Galaxy
    Overall, I was quite impressed with Rogue Galaxy, and as one of the presumably last RPGs for the PlayStation 2, I think it's a fitting tribute to the machine that is home to the most games of this genre.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Before Your Eyes
    Despite my occasionally-bloodshot orbs, Before Your Eyes is an experience I won’t soon forget. Its combination of masterful storytelling, engaging character progression and stunning conclusion put it in contention for best narrative game I’ve ever played, and it also reminded me to savor life at its best and worst moments. No small feat for an indie title hanging everything on an all-new form of interaction.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Into the Breach
    Those hankering for something reminiscent of Advance Wars or Valkyria Chronicles will find much to enjoy, and players looking to challenge their grey matter should absolutely give it a try.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Kingdom Come: Deliverance - Royal Edition
    This title certainly takes things slow, but it runs so deep and expands in so many directions at once that it’s hard to label it anything other than a true achievement. I whole-heartedly recommend it to anyone who might consider themselves an RPG fan.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Devil May Cry
    A wonderfully immersive adventure, radiating both the creativity and technical expertise of its experienced designers.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Council - Episode 1: The Mad Ones
    The Council: Episode 1, The Mad Ones is a treasure thanks to a great story that’s well-told, some of the highest Interactive Movie production values I’ve seen, and a skill and experience system that serves to make it even deeper and more replayable than it already was. And the cliffhanger ending? It’s so compelling that I can’t wait for the next chapter to arrive.
    • 96 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
    Among Thieves is far and away the best game that I have played this year, and one I will likely come back to time and again.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Echo Point Nova
    If the idea of gunning down bad guys while kickflipping through the sky doesn’t appeal, then there’s nothing in Echo Point Nova that’s going to convert someone. For me, though, Echo Point Nova does exactly what it says on the tin and excels at it — and honestly, that’s enough to keep me coming back with each update to maintain my 100% completion.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Earth Defense Force 4.1: The Shadow of New Despair
    Still the same incredible experience it was two years ago, only better. For new players it's a game full of twists and turns, daring level design and terrifying foes. For veterans it's the best version yet of an amazing formula, just as fresh and thrilling. It's a stunning experience from beginning to end, but I do hope the developers can fix the metagame elements and bump perfection up to the next level.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Slayaway Camp
    With its cheerful gore and wholehearted embrace of adorable violence, Slayaway Camp toes a line that has tripped up many developers before them. (Anyone remember the tonal disaster that was Naughty Bear?) This is both an ingeniously-built puzzle game and a horror extravaganza rolled into one, and it’s a combination that must be seen to be believed. Horror fans will enjoy great comedy writing about a subject they love, puzzle fans will have their brains expertly teased, and fans of both will find the game of their dreams.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Yakuza 4
    If the Yakuza series were merely the sole franchise keeping the long tradition of the 3D brawler alive, it would be worthy of praise. The fact that it manages to do that while also offering some of the best storytelling in the industry-and that it accomplishes these things essentially once a year-all combine to make it one of the most impressive series around. Yakuza 4 comes from the best possible video game pedigree, and it does its predecessors proud.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes
    Skipping my usual witty remark or pun-laden ending line in closing, let me just say that Clash of Heroes is an absolute winner from start to finish. Any gamer worthy of the title needs to have a copy of this cart in their library. Buy it. Ra
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Final Fantasy X-2
    Looking past the graphically pleasing surface, there was plenty of gritty gameplay to hold my attention. Building up my characters by learning new dressphere abilities was more enjoyable than leveling in recent RPGs, as was the earnest and lighthearted telling of Yuna's story.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Firewatch
    It was wonderful to explore the world and to listen to Henry and Delilah open up to one another about their lives. I'd easily recommend it to anyone who values a good, mature story. While the final destination leaves much to be desired, the trip was well worth it.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Sonic x Shadow Generations
    Sonic X Shadow Generations would’ve been an incredible package if it was simply remastering the 2011 classic, but the fact that it throws in a whole second game makes it one of the finest platforming experiences of the year, and arguably the most jam-packed release of 2024. Serving as love letters to Sonic’s past and present while perfecting two distinct forms of gameplay make it one the Blue Blur’s finest outings. It’s not just a stroll down memory lane — it’s a high-flying rollercoaster reminding us how great Sega’s mascot was, and still is.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Vanquish
    My highest possible praise goes out to Shinji Mikami and Platinum Games, and my sympathies go out to every third-person shooter that comes after Vanquish-it's an impossible act to follow
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dragon's Dogma 2
    When all’s said and done, Dragon’s Dogma 2 is an outstanding refinement and expansion of every good thing the original — now an undisputed cult classic — brought us, and this sequel is more than welcome, especially since its formula still manages to stand alone when it comes to RPGs.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fight Night 2004
    Just about every feature in Fight Night lives up to the hype and feels right, if not outstanding.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Chorus
    By the time I rolled credits, there was no doubt that Chorus was the best space combat game I’ve played in years. The thrill of dynamic space combat coupled with a compelling narrative and overall superb design make this one an absolute a must-play.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    DREDGE
    As a long time Lovecraft fan and someone who appreciates a good cosmic horror, Dredge is top class.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy
    It deserves all of the accolades it will receive-the game has managed to capture the spirit of Star Wars while maintaining its own style and sense of humor.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Metroid Prime 3: Corruption
    Metroid Prime 3: Corruption is an expansion of its predecessors, and it builds on their legacy in every aspect.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
    Oblivion is a game people will still be calling a classic a decade from now—and in the fickle world of gaming, that's high praise indeed.
    • 97 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Red Dead Redemption 2
    While I’m slightly disappointed that a game reportedly containing 500,000 unique lines of dialogue still isn’t interested in telling a tight three-act story, RDR2 is without a doubt Rockstar’s best game to date. It offers their strongest cast of characters, their most detailed open world, and an appropriate pace to allow both to coexist. Rockstar more or less invented the modern sandbox game, and it’s a joy to see them finally breaking new ground again.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Candleman
    Candleman (even with the extra levels added) is still a fairly short experience, but the length felt comfortable and it didn’t overstay its welcome. The storybook narrative style is perfect for the heartwarming tale that this game tells (no spoilers!) and it would be a great experience for a family to enjoy. Recommended!
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Animal Crossing
    The game is intended to be played every day, usually only for an hour or two, as opposed to the multi-hour sessions that are usually devoted to videogames.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Enslaved: Odyssey to the West - Pigsy's Perfect 10
    Pigsy's Perfect 10 is exactly the sort of DLC that I love the most-it builds on a character in a way not seen during the main game, but of equal import, the gameplay offered was not only interesting, but substantial enough to stand on its own.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Medium
    Overall, The Medium is a fantastic experience. It’s a troubling, emotional, and wrenching nightmare packed into a compact running time, and while its ending may be a little too ambiguous for some, I’m happy to say that The Medium offers a dark mystery that is absolutely worth solving.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves
    The developers obviously care greatly about the source material, and it shows in everything from the spot-on controls to the excellent voice acting.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Jurassic Park: The Game
    While it may not be the deepest entry out there-its mid-range budget and development schedule means that it lacks the branching plot and multiple endings that encourage replayability-it is unmatched in its ability to draw players into the story, and carry them along right through to the thrilling end.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Yes, Your Grace
    The writing is strong, the choices all feel important, engagement in both the short and long term is strong, and the overall design is brilliant – it’s a masterclass in elegance since it does exactly what it needs to do and lasts exactly as long as it needs to last, and there isn’t an ounce of fat on its bones. I can’t wait to see what Brave At Night comes up with next.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Jusant
    Collectibles aside, Jusant is a magical experience from beginning to end. From the very first time I had my avatar grab a handhold and hoist herself up the side of a cliff face I was hooked, and the rest of the adventure never once failed to deliver that same thrill. This is a special experience — one that tosses aside realism and simulation to capture the idea of mountain climbing that exists only in our fantasies. Yes, the story is beautiful, and yes, the level design is impeccable, but what Jusant offers most is the perfected version of climbing beyond what reality can offer, and I’m glad I got a chance to see it.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition
    Devil May Cry V is still an outstanding title rooted in the tradition of Japanese-style character-action games. The play and content enhancements are both substantial and worthy of a “Special Edition” moniker. There’s enough here for fans of the original to return, and newcomers looking for something to play on their new consoles are in for a whirling-dervish of a good time.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    DDRMAX: Dance Dance Revolution
    With other games I've felt similar feelings after beating an especially tough boss or solving a taxing puzzle. But when I truly master a song in DDRMAX, the sweat on my face and the swift beating of my heart magnifies the feeling. The soreness in my muscles and the burning in my lungs tell my body that I have actually done something worthwhile. It's a singular sensation that can make other games seem like meaningless fumbling with the controller.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4
    Shin Megami Tensei: Persona 4 is a true gamer's game. Atlus has outdone themselves again and proved that they are at the leading edge of role-playing.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Uncharted: Golden Abyss
    At its core, it's the same Uncharted game we've all played before, but it's bolstered by sterling presentation, a bevy of secrets, and straightforward tomb-raiding gameplay that feels like a love ode to the series' adventure forebears.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei: Persona
    Persona takes everything that made the original so memorable (the demon-fusing, the storyline, the atmosphere) and streamlines/updates it while restoring things that were cut from the original as well.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair
    It's a must-play for Visual Novel fans, and those who enjoyed the first year of the deadliest high school ever will find that the return trip is even better.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Marvin's Mittens
    In many ways, Marvin's Mittens is a perfect game for young ones. Its story, aesthetic, and mechanics are simple and inviting enough to remain engaging, but despite its younger skew, I found the game to be delightful.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    BioShock 2
    In the culmination of this story BioShock 2 outdoes the original and establishes its own worth, with a closing sequence that hits every note perfectly.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Katamari Damacy
    I'm far more excited by the ridiculousness of watching a lop-sided ball of junk made of houses, cars, welcome mats, sushi pieces and little girls, with a totem pole jutting out of one side and a herd of cows stuck to the other, rise up into outer space to transform into a star.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    EA Sports College Football 26
    This isn’t a title to nitpick, so, let’s break this down to the important things. College Football 26 is an absolute blast to play, and is a massive step forward for the reborn franchise, thanks to the type of year-over-year improvements that will please even the most cynical gamers. A title this deep and layered will never be perfect, but seeing last year’s foundation turn into this year’s celebration has been wonderful. I’m not likely to put this down any time soon.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    We. The Revolution
    For me, We. The Revolution redefined what a history game could be. The story was rich with depth and empathy for the people who lived during the Reign of Terror, and the developer’s passion could easily be felt — so much so, in fact, that I was moved to play France’s national anthem numerous times in honor of this terrible period brought to life in such a wonderful way.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Zombie Night Terror
    A fantastic experience, and rarely do developers manage to make such perfect use of a setting when building a game. This isn’t just a puzzle game that happens to be zombie-themed, it’s literally a zombie puzzle game, where all of the challenges and tasks flow naturally from the concept, constantly expanding and elaborating on the core idea. Yes, it’s fair to sum Zombie Night Terror up as Lemmings With Zombies, but from that jumping off point it accomplishes incredible things.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Vagrant Story
    Just about perfect for what it is: an old-fashioned, action RPG with loads of gameplay, a strong narrative and unparalleled presentation.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A Monster's Expedition
    It strikes a strong balance between difficulty and accessibility, and effortlessly introduces almost every one of its rules without relying on text or obvious tutorials. The quirky humor of the exhibits is charming, but the joy of A Monster’s Expedition lies in the exploration of its mechanics.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Guilty Gear Xrd -SIGN-
    The unfamiliar battle system may put some newcomers off, but those who don't mind putting in a little practice will be well-rewarded with one of the best and freshest fighters in ages. That it's also one of the most absurdly good-looking titles in years is just gravy on top of a pretty damned special meal.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Unicorn Overlord
    I could go on and on about Unicorn Overlord’s systems, but it ultimately presents an experience that is both incredibly deep, while also being highly streamlined to the point that it almost feels simple. For myself and fans of immersive RPGs with rich mechanics and visual flair to match, it’s a must-play.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Tsukihime: A Piece of Blue Glass Moon
    Nevertheless, as it is, Tsukihime -A piece of blue glass moon- remains a superlative visual novel, and a must-read for any fan of Type-Moon’s work, as well as a great potential entry point for those looking to get into visual novels as a medium.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dungelot: Shattered Lands
    It's colourful, simple to pick up and play, and only the longest dungeons at the end of the game take more than a few minutes to conquer or be defeated by. Dungelot may not be the perfect roguelite, but it's certainly close.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Valkyria Chronicles Remastered
    The quality of the port and of the game itself make Valkyria Chronicles Remastered a must-play title for strategy fans who haven't cracked it yet. The proposition of a purchase might be a bit more fraught for vets who don't feel the need to revisit since there's no genuinely new content here, but there's no question that it's good to see this classic made available to new fans on a new console.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Sonic Frontiers
    Sonic Frontiers is the best 3D Sonic of the last decade, and it’s easily one of the best platformers I’ve played in recent years. The changes to the classic formula, coupled with some of the best music video games has to offer makes it a real gem, but what made it truly noteworthy is the ambition on display. I believe Sonic Team and Sega have finally made the game they wanted to make ever since the failure of Sonic the Hedgehog (2006) and we now have a worthy successor to Sonic Adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    After Burner Climax
    After Burner Climax is as close as it gets to getting the full experience short of stepping into a specialized arcade cabinet, and the EX mode gives legs to what would otherwise be a incredibly short play time.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
    Creeps into your life under the simple guise of a game and soon dominates your every waking (and occasionally sleeping) moment. It's like being possessed in The Exorcist or like a pod person in Invasion of the Body Snatchers—you still look like you, but you're sort of a shell of your former self because all of your faculties are focused on the game.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Strange Brigade
    Strange Brigade is the rare title that manages to construct completely satisfying single- and multiplayer experiences in the exact same space. It’s not a huge project — a motivated team could blast through in under five hours while digging up all of the secrets might take closer to twenty — but it’s immensely replayable thanks to character variety and the different dynamics of co-op and solo modes.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Rayman Origins
    Gorgeous, polished, and legitimately challenging, it is as good a 2D platformer as one will find, nostalgic or no. Very few games manage to be old-school and new-school at the same time, but Rayman Origins threads that needle to near-perfection.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Rollerdrome
    I love Rollerdrome. That “hell yeah” factor hit me early, especially once I saw how it utilized the foundation built by one of my favorite franchises, yet still managed to create its own experience. Its satisfying gunplay and sense of momentum make it one of the finest sports games available, while its art style makes it stand out from the crowd. Roll7’s winning streak of incredible skating games continues.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin
    While a large number of areas remain untouched and the remixed enemy placement isn't exactly an all-new quest, Scholar of the First Sin is the best version of this game, and it remains an exceptional experience. For those who have not yet played Dark Souls II, or for those who skipped the DLC chapters, I whole-heartedly recommend this edition.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fez
    Though it may not flow as smoothly and simply as something like the recent Journey, Fez is a straight-up, forward-thinking shot of puzzle gaming goodness.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Resident Evil Outbreak File #2
    A wonderful survival horror game. The new control scheme is so good that if Capcom were to redo all the previous RE games in the style of Outbreak they could probably convince me to go ahead and buy all four titles for a third time.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Advance Wars
    Unfortunately, while Advance Wars devotes the entirety of its gameplay toward a military simulation, there is utterly no thought put towards the moral implications of armed combat. To be honest, such an aspect is not to be expected, as the subject is rarely broached in video games.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked
    Those two minor criticisms aside, Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor Overclocked is a brilliant game made all the more notable as many of today's games shift towards Hollywood-like narratives.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Velocity 2X
    In a game that encourages perfection to the nanosecond, having to occasionally stop to think about which button does what can occasionally cost time. It's a small issue and one that won't affect players unconcerned with high scores.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    XENOTILT: HOSTILE PINBALL ACTION
    Xenotilt is a fantastic sequel that improves on its predecessor, and a game that begs to be played over and over again.
Page:
 This publication does not provide a score for their reviews.
This publication has not posted a final review score yet.
These unscored reviews do not factor into the Metascore calculation.

In Progress & Unscored

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    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Wreckfest 2
    Wreckfest 2 is, at this moment, a promising Early Access release. It’s already a blast to play and offers everything fans of combat racing could ask for – other than, you know, structure and a career mode. Still, there’s already a worthwhile amount of content, including a truly bonkers derby arena full of ramps, loops, and giant metal traps that crush cars like grapes. It’s always a risk engaging with something in Early Access, as there’s a chance that promised features will never materialize. That said, there’s already a lot to love, and for players who long to see a Volkswagen Bug car disintegrate into component parts as it’s rammed head-on by a school bus going 80, Wreckfest 2 certainly has the goods. [Early Access Score - 65]
    • 74 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Forgive me Father
    At times, Forgive Me Father feels like a great idea that lost its way during development. There’s no denying that it offers a robust package of first-person shooting gameplay, but I can’t shake the feeling that there’s so much more it could offer. With more emphasis on the narrative and the addition of more interesting mechanics beside shooting and strafing, this could be a much more robust experience. For now, it’s recommended only to hardcore FPS throwback fanatics. [Early Access Provisional Score = 65]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Clunky Hero
    This is all fine, really. I’m not against the kind of simple gameplay Clunky Hero offers, but I definitely feel like there’s room for improvement as it’s still in Early Access. That said, I doubt that it will evolve into something much different than its current form — it’s just an overall solid platformer that checks off the required boxes, and nothing more. [Early Access Provisional Score = 70]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Tempest
    I love pirate games so much that I would have stuck with Tempest right to the end if it hadn’t locked me out of completing one of the main quests. In order to research krakens, I was told to go to an island and buy some of their ink. I obeyed and headed straight there, only to find the resource couldn’t be purchased. I had plenty of money and space in my hold, and the ‘buy’ button was lit up, but no matter what I tried, the game wouldn’t let me complete the objective. I tried to meet Tempest more than halfway. I was willing to meet it 99% of the way, but in the end, it couldn’t even do that much for me.
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    REMEDIUM
    Remedium is currently in early access with the first act playable, and two more acts to come. While I can’t recommend it in its current state, I’m hoping that more polish, more content and much-needed bugfixes are in its future. [Early Access Provisional Score = 40]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    As We Descend
    As stated at the start of this video, As We Descend is currently in Early Access, which means that there are some rough edges that come along with that. Even so, I’m extremely excited to see what else is in store. It’s off to a great start with an intuitive interface, a welcoming combat system and rewarding strategies for those who can master its nuances. With some balance changes, tweaks and additional updates, I’m hopeful that As We Descend could end up one of the best in the genre. [Early Access Provisional Score = 80]

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