Gameliner's Scores

  • Games
For 473 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 42% higher than the average critic
  • 5% same as the average critic
  • 53% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 1.6 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 73
Highest review score: 100 Halls of Torment
Lowest review score: 30 Extremely Powerful Capybaras
Score distribution:
  1. Negative: 19 out of 473
484 game reviews
    • 92 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mixtape is a colorful, emotional, and deeply thoughtful game about the final moments of youth, with Beethoven and Dinosaur capturing the ache of growing apart through realistic dialogue, memorable characters, and bombastic audiovisual presentation. Yet this is not a melancholic experience, but a story about gratitude, cherishing everything life has to offer, and carrying the people you love with you forever, even if its constantly shifting gameplay can feel both like a strength and a flaw. Since Stacey felt the need to label every moment in the game with a song, I’ll return the favor: Mixtape is like Good Riddance (Time of Your Life). Not necessarily thrilling, but undeniably beautiful and the kind of experience that stays with you long after it ends.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    So, is 2XKO worth playing? If you're into competitive fighters and don’t mind a free-to-play model with some heavy-handed monetization, then yes. This is a solid, well-built brawler. But without singleplayer content and with key characters locked behind paywalls, it leaves casual players out in the cold.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tempest Rising delivers classic RTS action in a modern package, with epic music and nostalgic gameplay. The limited faction choice is a bummer, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    DOOM: The Dark Ages is a fierce and fresh take that nails the franchise’s core, delivering a brutal first-person experience wrapped in stunning audiovisual design. The campaign’s combat loop is as gripping as ever, though the narrative feels undercooked and fails to fully capitalize on the game's cinematic ambitions. While weapon switching can feel clunky, and the soundtrack doesn’t quite reach the iconic highs of its predecessors, id Software still delivers a bold and commendable entry that just falls short of topping its legendary forerunners.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Nintendo has brought Super Mario Galaxy + Galaxy 2 to the Switch, offering a great opportunity for platformer and Mario fans. For those who’ve already played the games, the price of seventy euros might be a tough sell for essentially the same experience.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3+4 is a must-play for fans, packed with tight gameplay and killer maps. It doesn’t hit quite as hard as 1+2, with some cut content and a weaker soundtrack, but fresh maps and solid tweaks still make this a worthy ride.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Rue Valley is a clever, daring time loop game filled with mental puzzles and meaningful choices. The repetition demands some patience, but its strong story and fresh mechanics make it absolutely worth your time.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Star Wars Outlaws captures the essence of the Star Wars universe with stunning visuals and engaging gameplay. It’s a thrilling adventure that stays true to the epic scale and feel of the galaxy far, far away. Fans of the franchise will find plenty to love in this must-play title, which delivers on both action and story.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is a well-crafted remake that breathes new life into one of the series’ weaker entries. While the main story stays mostly the same, the improved visuals, refined gameplay, and meaningful new content alongside the Dark Ties storyline make it worth revisiting. New to the series and played Kiwami 1 & 2? Then this one’s a no-brainer.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Romeo is a Dead Man is an unapologetically bizarre experience that screams Suda51 from start to finish. Its bold artistic flair is backed by layered, engaging gameplay, despite some rough edges. Think Romeo & Juliet reimagined as a fever dream of pop culture, and you’re getting close.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Once Upon a Katamari rolls straight into that Katamari-shaped hole in your heart with all the quirky charm you’d expect. It doesn’t change much and honestly, it doesn’t need to. New levels, same absurd joy. Count us in till the end of time.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Arctic Awakening offers a short but engaging narrative full of mystery, encouraging players to piece together its story through exploration. The game’s atmospheric environments and beautiful soundtrack create an immersive experience, with Alfie's dialogue adding emotional depth. Player choices influence the storyline and ending, while even minor choices and items subtly contribute to character development. Despite a few technical issues like awkward climbing and minor bugs, they don't significantly impact the overall enjoyment.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sonic X Shadow Generations delivers a strong mix of nostalgia and modernization, with Shadow's new campaign enriching gameplay through strategic Chaos abilities. The audiovisual upgrades breathe new life into familiar environments, while Sonic's levels feel somewhat dated. Nevertheless, it’s a rewarding adventure for fans.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mario Tennis Fever serves up fast, chaotic fun thanks to the new Fever rackets, giving matches a distinct Mario Party-style twist. The lowered difficulty makes rallies easier to save, welcoming newcomers but sanding off some of the competitive edge veterans might miss.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Ready or Not nails tactical tension like few others. The game is hardcore, intense, and at times brilliant. It’s rough around the edges, but with the right friends, it’s easily one of the most fun shooters out there right now.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    For just €39.99, you get four 2D and four 3D Capcom fightinggame classics with rollback netcode and some handy extras. Some of the games in Capcom Fighting Collection 2 feel a bit redundant, but the games run smoothly and deliver what fans expect.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    F1 Manager 2024 delivers a pure management experience, offering deep strategic gameplay that will satisfy motorsport enthusiasts. While it’s packed with detail and realism, the complexity may be overwhelming for casual players. It’s a must-play for those who thrive on intricate decision-making in the fast-paced world of F1.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Conscript delivers a tense survival horror experience steeped in World War I atmosphere, but it may not appeal to everyone. The game excels in creating a haunting and immersive environment, yet its challenging gameplay and old-school mechanics could feel outdated to some players. It’s a solid choice for fans of classic survival horror looking for a unique setting, but not for those seeking modern conveniences.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Two Point Museum delivers the familiar humor and accessible gameplay, with varied museum themes and a fun career mode. Expeditions add a nice twist, though the management system could use more depth. Still, an entertaining choice for fans of the series.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Don't ask me how, but Mike Klubnika manages to grab the attention again with s.p.l.i.t., a idiosyncratic terminal hacking game targeted towards old school hacking enthusiasts with a predilection for the grim and uncanny. Even though its runtime of roughly thirty minutes might seem like it's hardly anything you'll get invested in, s.p.l.i.t. has a way of making it the most uncomfortable half hour you've had in ages. Just be sure to brush up those command-line skills before you take on that 'unethical superstructure', because if you don't, you'll know the drill...
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    WWE 2K26 delivers rock-solid gameplay, stacked with moves and enough content to keep you busy for a long time. Not every mode is a main-event hit and the DLC strategy raises some eyebrows, but the overall package is impressively complete. For WWE fans, this is the best entry in years.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Fragpunk stands out in the competitive free-to-play market with its vibrant visuals, unique Lancers, and game-changing Shard Cards that keep matches fresh. While the heavy reliance on microtransactions is a downside, the game’s innovation makes it an exciting contender. If future updates refine its progression, Fragpunk could carve out a lasting place in the genre.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Kunitsugami: Path of the Goddess is a uniquely artistic experience that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern gameplay. Its distinct style and imaginative world make it stand out, but its unconventional approach may not resonate with everyone. The game’s originality is both its greatest strength and a potential barrier for those seeking a more familiar experience. It’s a must-try for those who appreciate creativity and innovation in gaming, though it might feel too eccentric for some.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    WWE 2K25 makes solid improvements with new match options, over 300 wrestlers, and an expanded Showcase mode, but some features still need refining. The Island has potential but feels underdeveloped, and VC integration slightly dampens the experience. Hardcore wrestling fans will enjoy it, but casual players might be better off waiting for WWE 2K26.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Darkest Dungeon II continues the tradition of its predecessor with a challenging and punishing gameplay loop that rewards perseverance. The game’s brutal difficulty is balanced by its deep strategy and atmospheric presentation, making every victory feel hard-earned. However, its relentless nature may be overwhelming for some players, but for those who thrive on intense, unforgiving experiences, it’s a rewarding journey into darkness.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    SCHiM is a beautiful demonstration of how simplicity can create powerful gaming experiences. The game’s minimalist design and intuitive mechanics make it easy to pick up, while its unique shadow-based puzzles provide plenty of depth and challenge. It’s a clever and charming title that proves you don’t need complexity to create something special, though its simplicity might leave some players wanting more.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The First Descendant offers engaging sci-fi action with stunning visuals and fast-paced gameplay, but it comes with some caveats. While the combat and world-building are strong, the experience is somewhat marred by repetitive missions and a lack of innovation. It’s a solid entry for fans of the genre, but it may leave those seeking something truly groundbreaking feeling slightly underwhelmed.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Zenless Zone Zero showcases the mastery of its developers in crafting a top-tier action RPG with stylish combat and a vibrant world. The game’s fast-paced action and rich character design stand out, though it may feel familiar to those who’ve played similar titles. It’s a polished and enjoyable experience, proving the developers are true masters of the genre, even if it doesn’t break entirely new ground.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Riven (2024) is a beautifully crafted remake that stays true to the original’s mystique while enhancing the visuals and experience for a new generation. The game’s intricate puzzles and immersive world-building remain as compelling as ever, making it a must-play for both longtime fans and newcomers. It’s a nostalgic yet refreshing return to a classic, capturing the essence of what made the original so beloved.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    NBA 2K26 is the slickest, smoothest entry in the series to date, with tight gameplay and a surprisingly heartfelt MyCareer mode. Microtransactions still lurk, but whether you pay or play, this is the undisputed MVP of basketball games.
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
    Towers of Aghasba offers an intriguing world where you have to create the ecosystems and balance them. This leads to fantastical creatures and new materials. As you have to recreate and build the old cities, it’s all about restoring the world. Sadly, the game is full of bugs and is missing a lot of Quality of Life features. However, with updates and refinement, the game has the potential to evolve into a solid RPG-survival experience. [Early Access Score = 40]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Breachway effectively uses its sci-fi theme, with gameplay centered around strategic decisions based on ships, cards, and crew. However, you barely carry anything over to the next round. Which makes pre-run planning non-existing. While the resource-based card system works well, players are limited by a standard deck and RNG. The game looks polished with exciting visuals, but it currently lacks some depth and the desire to keep playing. [Early Access Score = 50]
    • 74 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Stormgate’s early access hints at potential, but it’s clear that it’s not yet the revolutionary RTS some might have hoped for. The game shows promise with its gameplay foundation, but there’s still a lot of work needed to refine it. As it stands, it’s a game worth watching, but not one to jump into just yet. [Early Access Score = 30]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Space for Sale in early access sounds promising but falls short in execution. Despite its creative concept, the gameplay feels underwhelming and lacks the depth needed to keep players engaged. It’s an idea that works better on paper than in practice. [Early Access Score = 40]
    • 82 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Cataclismo's early access offers a nearly perfect blend of strategy and survival, with engaging gameplay and a strong atmosphere. While there’s room for improvement, it’s already a standout title for fans of the genre. [Early Access Score = 90]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    9 Kings delivers a simple but engaging gameplay loop where selecting a king grants access to a set of cards used to place buildings and troops. Battles reward new cards, and strategic variety is encouraged through random blessings, perks, and different kings. The pixel art style and evolving buildings add visual clarity and satisfaction as you expand your kingdom. While more unique kings and game modes would enhance replayability, the Early Access launch is a promising start for developer Sad Socket. [Early Access Score = 80]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    City 20 offers a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic survival genre with a city setting and dynamic interactions. While the survival mechanics can feel repetitive at times, it holds enough potential for replayability and experimentation. [Early Access Score = 70]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    The difficulty level is definitely an issue. If you have no experience with the franchise, I therefore do not recommend Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era. However, if the game really appeals to you, I advise starting with the third installment so that you can learn the game's system without too much frustration. If you truly love a challenge, Olden Era is definitely for you, but it will certainly involve a lot of trial and error. Are you a long-time fan of the franchise? Then Olden Era is certainly worth the effort. The atmosphere does indeed resemble that of the old games, and the various modes and factions make the game pleasantly varied, allowing you to spend plenty of hours puzzling and exploring. It seems the developers have listened closely to the fans.
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    SULFUR presents itself as a distinctive boomer shooter, captivating players with its charming aesthetics and engaging gameplay. While it features a somewhat one-dimensional combat loop and the potential for progress loss, the roguelite elements ensure that each session remains thrilling. Perfect Random's debut title demonstrates ambition and merits serious consideration. [Early Access Score = 80]
    • tbd Metascore
    • Critic Score
    New Arc Line shows potential but struggles with clear shortcomings like a clunky camera and weak dialogue. The impressive atmosphere and strong skill-check mechanics spark curiosity, but the game feels unfinished even for Early Access. [Early Access Score = 50]
    • 43 Metascore
    • Critic Score
    Even if the last-minute delay of La Quimera raised the eyebrows of many, it probably was the best thing that Reburn could have done, and so was the choice of shifting it into Early Access. The extra time has given the Ukranian studio some breathing room to drag La Quimera out of its utterly unplayable state, delivering a sci-fi shooter which is at least playable now. But make no mistake, while gunplay has been improved massively and even offers some solid action left and right, other aspect like story building and voice acting are still so unbearable that is't difficult to not feel a sense of embarrasment when sitting through the over-the-top Latin-Americans soap opera drama. [Early Access Score = 50]

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