GameSpew's Scores

  • Games
For 3,618 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 51% higher than the average critic
  • 10% same as the average critic
  • 39% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 2.2 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 73
Highest review score: 100 Returnal
Lowest review score: 10 Planet 2000
Score distribution:
3629 game reviews
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This game makes me wish my friends lived more locally so I could have them round every week to play a few matches of Living Dungeon with beer or two.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Road to Boruto expansion for Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja STORM 4 offers more of the same over-the-top action, which for many players will be enough for them to part with the cash.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I’d even argue that using the Dragons IP holds back Dawn of New Riders. Film tie-in games are always looked down upon, and the fact that it’s a franchise aimed at kids means most grown-up gamers are not going to take it seriously. But underneath its licensing, Dawn of New Riders is a sweet adventure game.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    When it released in 2006, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion was an excellent game. Nearly 20 years on, it's still good — but it's certainly showing its age. This remaster makes it look incredible given how old it is, but its antiquated gameplay and numerous bugs still exist.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Like the rest of We Happy Few, Lightbearer is a bit rough around the edges. It also sometimes feels like there are too many loading screens. Once its story has got its hooks in you, however, you’ll want to keep playing until you find out if Nick Lightbearer is a cold-blooded killer or not. It’s just a shame that it’s all over in two to three hours, and there’s no reason to return afterwards. But it doesn’t cost a great deal, and it’s part of the game’s season pass if you’re after yet more We Happy Few escapades.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A roguelike Metroidvania about a witch and a magical hat, Never Grave is beautiful to look at and a joy to play thanks to silky-smooth combat and traversal. It's just a shame that making progress can feel too much like an uphill battle.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There's a fast-paced, fun and accessible combat system at the heart of Invincible VS, but it's let down by a lack of modes. It's disappointing that its Story Mode comes to an abrupt end, too. Still, you'll get plenty of enjoyment out of it if you're a fan of the franchise.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Sure, the game isn’t perfect and has a few flaws – the ending is disappointing and the minigames feel quite pointless – but they are forgiveable simply because the game is fun, with a storyline and gameplay that are thoroughly enjoyable.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Carrion is, for the most part, a bloody good game. It’s a real treat for horror fans and one of the most original games I’ve come across. There were so many moments that left me with a grin a mile wide, from pulling a string of victims up into the ceiling to turning a soldier against their former friends. But if you choose to wreak your own brand of horror upon Carrion‘s hapless humans, just be prepared to step away when there’s no-one left to torment.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Atelier Dusk Trilogy Deluxe Pack is a great package. It’s true that Atelier Ayesha through to Atelier Shallie aren’t exactly the pinnacle of JRPGs, but they’re very solid nonetheless. And here you’re getting them enhanced and with a considerable amount of DLC. The only real downer in the whole affair is Atelier Ayesha‘s performance problems.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    What The Dub?! isn’t the sort of game that will keep you entertained for hours on end. But it is the sort of thing you’ll pull out for half an hour at a party or gathering, and have a laugh with. With over 300 movie clips included in the game, it’ll be a while until you start seeing repeats, too. The more ridiculous or rude you get, the more hilarity is likely to ensue. Needless to say, if you’re a fan of Jackbox’s games, then What The Dub?! is worth checking out.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Though it’s painfully short, it’s an excellently crafted experience.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s the kind of game you decide one evening to chip away at a little bit and then suddenly wonder where all the time has gone.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Is Lunar Axe going to set your world on fire? Absolutely not. This is a budget point and click adventure game, but it’s well worth the asking price. And for fans of the genre, it scratches the puzzle itch more than adequately.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    ALTDEUS: Beyond Chronos’ writing is excellent, with rounded characters who dodge most of the usual anime tropes. It may not have delivered the mech-piloting mayhem I was expecting, but it’s a smart visual novel, with enough interactivity, plot twists and emotional gut-punches to keep you engaged. Throw in multiple endings, some of which can only be unlocked on subsequent playthrough and, even though you don’t get to personally punch Space Godzilla in the face, it’s well worth suiting up for.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    You'll have never played anything quite like Vicious Attack Llama Apocalypse. It takes the visual style of Dead Nation, adds in the randomness of a roguelike, and injects a huge amount of humour.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Western Press makes for a brilliant and inexpensive party game. Its basic nature means you're not going to get much out of it when played on your own, whether online or offline, but with friends it's an absolute riot.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A platforming game at its heart, Skully is brought to life with beautiful visuals and a unique character system. Its puzzles will, at times, have you scratching your head, and some platforming sections will really test your mettle. In fact, it perhaps verges on being overly frustrating on occasion, but overcoming an obstacle and making it to the next checkpoint is genuinely rewarding. Ultimately, there’s little else like Skully out there, so if you’re a fan of 3D platforming with a smattering of puzzle solving, it likely won’t disappoint.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With its ridiculous story, unique visuals and brilliant soundtrack, there's a lot to like about Skate Story. Its gameplay is the weakest link here, though, with fiddly controls and other issues introducing a level of frustration that might push some players away.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In the end, what I wanted from this title was more; I wanted to do more puzzles in this world, in this unique way, and that’s exactly what We Were Here Too delivers on.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The two different game modes of Oaken are very much appreciated, but whichever you opt for, you’re in for a challenging ride. If you’re new to turn-based strategy games, Oaken might not be the best place to start – even if it’s charming art style is initially disarming. But for those who enjoy the genre, there’s a lot to like here.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Its gameplay is on the simple side for the most part, and its real-time combat system has some issues, but series fans are likely to enjoy Atlier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land. Newcomers might find some joy here as well, thanks to an open world packed with things to see and do.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There is a surprising amount of content crammed into a deceptively small package, and despite its setbacks, there are plenty of thrills to be found in Corridor Z‘s tight, zombie-ridden corridors.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Very quickly, Westmark Manor managed to impress in almost every way. Despite a couple of technical hiccups – I’ve had the game freeze on me twice, causing me to lose progress – the game’s threatening yet alluring atmosphere and intriguing narrative has kept me coming back. If you enjoy horror games, particularly the likes of Resident Evil or Silent Hill, then Westmark Manor is well worth adding to your collection. Just be prepared to jump out of your skin from time to time.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Like its charming pixelated graphics that ooze character and its annoyingly mesmerising dubstep soundtrack, Super Mutant Alien Assault is an acquired taste. For many players it may be a bit sour, leaving them with the contorted face of bitterness and displeasure.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I applaud Bithell Games’ efforts to make a classic card game something more. There’s no denying its presentation is compelling, even if the story may feel rather unnecessary. But regardless of how you feel about the over-the-top dramatics, there’s an excellent game at the core of The Solitaire Conspiracy. Its Countdown and Skirmish modes are something that players will find themselves going back to time and again – if only for a welcome change from Freecell or Spider Solitaire.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    ExoCross is a solid off-road arcade racer, with impressive visuals and brilliant physics. But while it has a decent number of single-player modes to jump into, its online options are disappointing, and there's a general lack of content overall.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Dr Kawashima’s Brain Training for Nintendo Switch certainly isn’t as good as its predecessors. With its letter and number recognition problems and the Switch’s controllers not detecting arm movements accurately, there are some minigames that players will definitely be put off by. But its unique new additions that utilise the Switch’s IR camera are a real joy to play – and more than anything, even if it’s not perfect, it’s just lovely to have Dr. Kawashima on the Switch at last.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’ve played a Warriors game before, then you’ve basically played One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4. Thin story, okay graphics, and somewhat shallow but satisfying action gameplay are all par for the course here, not to mention a lion’s share of content to work through. If you’ve ever been curious what this sub-genre is all about, this is a great place to jump in with its easily approachable gameplay and that lovably goofy One Piece aesthetic. If you’re a long time fan, we’d encourage you to ask yourself how much you want more of the same and decide based on that. One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4 is the furthest thing from reinventing the wheel, but it sure has its unique and addictive gameplay loop down to a science.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There’s something rather alluring about Torment: Tides of Numenera. Whilst its central story is somewhat linear, it’s truly impressive just how personal your adventure can be thanks to the wealth of side quests that surround it and the multiple ways you can deal with each of them.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    These issues aside, there’s no denying that LOUD is an enjoyable little music rhythm game with a lovely positive message and plenty of spirit. It may be a little brief and rather basic, but it’s nicely presented and well put together. If you’re into rhythm games and rock music it’s worth a look, but it definitely won’t blow your socks off.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Right now, Bleeding Edge is an enjoyable but light multiplayer diversion. Needless to say, its ongoing success depends on Ninja Theory’s ability to keep the experience interesting and fresh. If it’s left too long without new content or modes, current players will probably move on, and an online multiplayer game with no players isn’t any fun at all. There’s a good base here on which to build, but if it’s left to stagnate it will quickly be forgotten.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    God Eater 3 isn’t for everyone. Some will find it too easy, its story is passable, its controls take some getting to… I could go on. Thanks to its engaging fast-paced combat and considerable character development options, however, it’s well worth working through its flaws.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Letting players take control of a young Kratos, God of War Sons of Sparta is a retro-styled 2D Metroidvania that offers a large, interconnected world to explore. It's both engaging and rewarding to do so, too, though repetitive combat that can feel a little scrappy brings the experience down somewhat.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Few Rogue-like games have grabbed my attention quite like HyperParasite has. Its unique premise is a lot of fun, and the sheer wealth of characters available means that the game can feel like a totally different experience from one moment to the next. Unlocking all characters means there’s always something to work towards; add to that the game’s tongue-in-cheek 80s atmosphere and bombastic soundtrack, and there’s plenty of reason to keep jumping back in. It’s just a shame that HyperParasite‘s unforgiving nature means most of its players won’t ever fully experience what the game has to offer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For a free-to-play game, Spellsworn does everything right. It’s easy to learn, fun to play, and doesn’t suffer from any pay-to-win mechanics. Though quite difficult to master, it’s approachable and engaging for any player.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Even those who have never played Snake but like simple arcade-like games will enjoy this one. Pick it up for a lovely, no-stress experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Die For Valhalla‘s unique gameplay elements accompanied by some glorious 2D artwork help make this one more palatable in the long run than most.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The puzzles on offer are the usual fare of untangling, turning, finding, matching or clicking; there’s nothing that’s going to melt your brain but they’re engaging enough to give you some satisfaction.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Free of any combat, and largely of any challenge whatsoever, Submerged: Hidden Depths is the perfect game to relax with. Its colourful visuals and contemplative soundtrack will immerse you in a world that feels sombre yet hopeful, as you explore every nook and cranny on your modest ship. Though for some the action may prove to be too basic. Still, if you’re after a game that you can chill out with while unravelling the fate of a caring sister and her brother, this is well worth checking out.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Hugely inspired by Castlevania, Chronicles of the Wolf offers a fairly lengthy gothic adventure where players explore a dark, interconnected world to take down an evil menace. It looks nice, has a great soundtrack and is mostly fun to play, but there are some balancing and design issues that hold it back from greatness.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Starpoint Gemini Warlords is a solid space strategy game; an eye-pleasing time-eater which will more than sate your desire for galactic conquest.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite its shortcomings though, She Wants Me Dead is a charming platformer that offers plenty of challenge in a neat package. For the average player, there may not be enough content to warrant the asking price, but for those that enjoy beating records and completing speedruns, it’s a perfect title.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If games were rated strictly on audio and visuals, then Rad Rodgers would be a ten out of ten. Unfortunately, the gameplay itself doesn’t do quite enough to live up to the same standards.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Simple, violent and rough around the edges, Berserk and the Band of the Hawk is just like its protagonist, Guts, and equally just as endearing in small doses.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’ve never played Zool before, then Zool Redimensioned might not seem that special to you. After all, in the 30 years that have passed, a number of platform games have come and gone, many of them no doubt superior to Zool in numerous ways. But if you do have fond memories of playing the game on your Amiga, SNES or Mega Drive, then you’ll surely get a huge kick out of Zool Redimensioned. This is a true slice of nostalgia, delivered in a perfectly-tuned package. We bet you can’t play it without a smile on your face.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For its price, SQUAKE is definitely worth a go if you’re looking for something fun to play in short bursts.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For its budget price the Dead Island: Definitive Collection offers two solid open world experiences that have never looked or played better on console as well as a retro-styled novelty that can be enjoyed in short bursts. It’s just a shame that the changes made to both Dead Island and Riptide are only visual, as both have gameplay aspects that could do with a little more polish.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s far away from being perfect, but Horizon Chase Turbo is one hell of a stylish way to waste 30 minutes of your day.
    • 50 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For its low price, there’s plenty of gameplay on offer; it’s a game that will keep you playing for a long time to come.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Ultimately, there’s nothing in Namco Museum Archives Vol 1 that’s going to win you over if you aren’t already a fan of retro games. But if you enjoyed any of these arcade classics in your youth, it’s perhaps the best and easiest way to replay them. The selection of games on offer is varied, and they’re pleasantly presented with enough features to make them accessible to a new generation of players. The inclusion of a new Pac-Man game is a nice bonus; and the fact that a couple of these games haven’t been available outside of Japan until now is a boon. It’s a shame the collection doesn’t try harder to live up to its ‘Museum’ title, but it’s hard to argue with its excellent value for money.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Overall, BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle is a mixed package. While its character roster feels anaemic, its gameplay entertains in all the right ways.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Ultra Space Battle Brawl is very much worth a purchase if you play games with friends on a regular basis. Its fusion of Pong with an 80’s arcade game aesthetic really gives it character, and when your opponent is a real human being it’s an absolute riot. It’s quite light on features though, and its single player offering really lets the package down.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Some people will absolutely love Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom, and others will be enraged by it. I sit somewhere in the middle – I really like it, but its flaws have soured my experience with it.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Does Matchpoint: Tennis Championships do anything particularly noteworthy? Not really. It’s not overly impressive in any way, being perfectly honest. But by simply providing a fun and fairly authentic game of tennis it manages to outshine its rivals. And because of that, whether you’re buying it to get stuck into its single-player career mode or take on all-comers in online multiplayer, chances are you won’t be disappointed.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It has beautiful graphics, a truly intriguing storyline, and just enough creepiness to keep you on the edge of your seat. If you’re thinking of giving Goetia a try, I’d recommend turning off the lights and playing with headphones to really get the most out of it!
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Namco Museum archives Vol 2 isn’t the all-out celebration of retro classics that it could have been, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not worthy of your money or time. There are some genuinely great games here, with gameplay that stands the test of time. But of course, there are also a few howlers. With a price that’s very reasonable compared to many, however, you won’t mind. And then there’s Gaplus; perhaps the shining jewel in Namco Museum Archives Vol 2‘s crown. You may have played it in its original form elsewhere, but its demade form makes this collection just that bit more interesting.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Like most tactical RPGs, there’s a lot to keep track of in Warsaw. If you’re new to the genre, it can be overwhelming; the game does have adjustable difficulty levels, but lowering the difficulty doesn’t change all that players have to pay attention to as they play. The story is well-written, but combat gets quickly repetitive as it contains no bosses, special events or anything to differentiate one battle from another. If you’re looking for a challenging tactics-based game, Warsaw is well worth a go. It’s just a shame that the excellent world-building takes something of a back seat.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’ve got an evening that you want to fill with a charming narrative adventure, The Last Worker will fit the bill. Just don’t expect it to make a major impact on you. While its story starts out strong, it fizzles out as it reaches its climax, and a number of frustrating gameplay elements suck a little fun from the experience. Thankfully, the strength of its presentation and excellent voice acting will at least keep you determined to see things through.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    An open world arcade racer, JDM: Japanese Drift Master may not be as pretty or expansive as its peers, but those who love getting sideways will still find lots to love about it. The drifting focus here makes the game feel relatively unique, and while there are no multiplayer options, its campaign should keep players entertained for a considerable amount of time.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    I went into the fourth episode expecting intense turmoil that would lead to an exciting finale, but instead came out thinking, ‘Oh, that’s it.’
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy isn’t a bad game by any means. In fact, it’s rather good. We can’t help but feel that it doesn’t do enough to prevent it feeling like another retread of familiar ground, however. If you love the series and simply want more, good news: this will deliver it. But those hoping that the formula might be well and truly shaken up in this sequel will be left sorely disappointed.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Think of Wreckreation as a spiritual sequel to Burnout Paradise, only not as polished and with the addition of creation elements. It has some issues, but it's been much improved since launch thanks to numerous patches. If you want to race at insane speeds and take down opponents, it's well worth a try.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Making your own pots in Kiln using the ever-growing range of options is delightful, truly allowing you to express yourself. And it's fun to take your pots into battle too, at least for a while. With just one match type currently available, Quench, things can soon get a little repetitive.
    • 52 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Had each character not felt so alike, and if the game’s combat system wasn’t quite so punishing on your thumb during extended bouts of play, Shing! could have been something quite special. As it is though, it’s still a good game, and one that fans of side-scrolling beat ’em ups should definitely check out. Its colourful visuals and challenging gameplay are an enjoyable combination, but one that’s best consumed in small amounts. Otherwise, your right thumb will never forgive you.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you have the time for another retro FPS in your life, Forgive Me Father will provide some solid entertainment. The fact that it’s fairly inexpensive and has Lovecraft-inspired enemies will be attractive to some, too. There are better examples available in the genre though. So, while it’s in no way a bad game, it’s hard to call it essential. It’s simply an enjoyable but unspectacular old-fashioned romp.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you’re looking for an atmospheric, beautifully crafted, nuanced and thoughtful narrative experience, The Banner Saga 2 is a contemporary leader in all of those fields.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Phantom Spark is a time trial racing game that will push players to their limit, challenging them to return to events time and time again in order to master them and place high on the global leaderboards. While it doesn't have a massive amount of content, it will keep some players entertained for hours on end.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The bite-sized nature of each loop means that Gnosia is the perfect game to spend a little time with when you have a modicum of downtime. You could play one or two loops while on your lunch break, for example, or one before you go to bed every night. That way, you’re less likely to get put off by the repetitive roundabout discussions. It’s also perfect for those who want a single-player equivalent to the multiplayer-focused Among Us. It has its flaws, but Gnosia is an inventive and unique title that draws you in and surprises you.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Being a crow is riotous fun, as you'll find out if you play Just Crow Things. A wacky sandbox in the vein of Untitled Goose Game or Big City, Little Kitty, Just Crow Things throws puzzles and quests at you in a varied and colourful world — and gives you the ability to poop at will. What more could you want from a game, really?
    • 61 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Travelling through Stiles’ mind is a gripping journey. It’s at times emotional, other times horrifying.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Putting you in control of an expanding team of cats, hell-bent on reclaiming their city, Clawpunk is a riotous 2D action game with a style all of its own. Its roguelite elements mean that it starts tough but gets somewhat easier over time, though there are unlockable modes that offer an increased challenge. It's just a shame that sometimes it can be a little too chaotic for its own good.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Some will love the surprising amount of depth that Mario Strikers: Battle League Football offers, but those expecting something they can easily pick up and play perhaps won’t be as enamoured. It’s the lack of modes that’s the real kicker here, though. In addition to some other minor issues, it makes for a game that just doesn’t fulfil on its potential. Still, if you’re after a game that serves up a variation of football that is full of over the top action, there’s little in the way of competition.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Horgihugh and Friends isn’t going to set anyone’s world on fire – it’s not spectacular in any way. Despite some issues, though, it’s a solid shoot ’em up, and thanks to Eterday mode the more you put into it the more you get out. Ultimately, it’s the fact that it’s got cute animals as central characters that’s going to draw you to it, and that feelgood factor wins out. With its grim backstory, you’ll be rooting for Hugh and Figaro every step of the way.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With its gameplay backed up with stylish pixelated visuals and a banging soundtrack, there’s a lot to like about Akane. It’s a game that’s easy to pick up but hard to master, fun to jump into for just a few minutes of fast-paced action whenever the urge arises. Play it for much longer, and the feeling of repetition is sure to creep in. But thanks to its budget price, you’re guaranteed to not feel short changed by what’s on offer.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Breakers Collection is unlikely to make an impact on the casual fighting game crowd, as it doesn’t really offer anything unique. For devout fans of the genre, however, there’s a lot to like here, and Breakers Revenge still has the chops to provide many bouts of fighting game bliss. Thanks to its budget price, then, it’s easy to recommend Breakers Collection to anyone who remembers the series fondly or wants to delve into fighting game history.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Killer Klowns from Outer Space is a strange choice for an asymmetrical multiplayer horror game, but it works. It's fun playing as either a human or a Klown here, with just enough twists on the tried-and-tested formula to keep matches unpredictable and interesting. There's still a little work to be done when it comes to balancing, however.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Azure Striker Gunvolt 2 is a short, but well crafted experience that plays it safe.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s remarkably unremarkable. A safe sequel that changes little and only takes tiny steps to improve its own tried and tested formula. But it’s still the closest thing to Gran Turismo with bikes.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A pleasant surprise. With an intriguing concept, open story, immersive environments and dynamic yet silent characters, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything else as unique. If you can look past the few technical issues – which can hopefully be ironed out with a patch – you’ll find a worthwhile story about overcoming loneliness and self-doubt, cherishing your friendships and rediscovering who you are.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    There’s not much to put you off from playing Agent Intercept, really. It may not be the most visually appealing title, especially on PS5, but it doesn’t look too bad. And while the jilted camera angles can sometimes make it awkward to gauge if you’re lined up correctly with a pick-up, you soon get used to it. It’s not particularly big or complex but it offers pure, unadulterated, arcade fun. Sometimes that’s all you want. So, if you suddenly feel the urge to chase down a crime syndicate in a futuristic vehicle that transforms, keep Agent Intercept on your radar. You might beat its campaign in the blink of an eye, but you’ll stay for its score-chasing antics.
    • 55 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Karate Kid: Street Rumble isn't the best example of the side-scrolling beat 'em up genre but it's a welcome one nonetheless. There are some issues that detract from the fun a little, but on the whole this an entertaining adventure, especially when played with others, and there are plenty of modes and light RPG elements to add longevity.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This aside, the fun you can have means it’s worth investing a little time to save Neon Chrome, especially if you’re a Dead Nation fan and if you can see past the issues I’ve mentioned, though the current £11.99 price tag may be a little steep.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Clever crimes require a clever brain to solve them. Confidential Killings is certainly going to test your deduction skills by asking you to gather clues and come up with a valid hypothesis. It's a great detective game, but best enjoyed in short bursts to avoid repetition setting in.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Despite its late-game woes though, Home Sweet Home is definitely worth a horror fan’s time. Its brand of horror is simple but effective, managing to build up tension and chill you to the core.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Standing back and admiring your city, knowing that you were responsible for its virtual prosperity, is immensely satisfying. Niche interest it may be, but if you favour construction over destruction, then Cities: Skylines offers a solid foundation for your future metropolis.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It won’t keep you hooked forever, but thanks to its gorgeous art style, witty writing and lovable monsters, it will keep you entertained for a while.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Perhaps console isn’t the best place to play, then, but Replica is a game very much worth your time. Costing around the price of a cup of coffee, you’ve got a dark and mysterious experience that will undoubtedly get its claws in you. Snooping around someone’s data is always more alluring than it should be, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat each time you discover a new password, wondering what incriminating evidence awaits. Replica is uncomfortable from start to finish, but if you think you can hack it – figuratively and literally – it’s well worth playing. Just consider grabbing it on Switch or PC instead.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    In the end Story of Seasons: Trio of Towns might not be perfect, but it’s still a wonderful game in many ways. There’s tonnes of stuff to do on your farm, what feels like a million side quests, and even adorable postmen to woo if that’s something you’re interested in *wink*. It’s a shame that it does get quite repetitive, there’s no huge overarching goal, and the tutorial made me want to punch Uncle Frank in the face, but all of the good surely outweighs these minor points. The game design is gorgeous, the dialogue and story are very well written, and overall the game is just really great fun.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It may not constantly beckon you back, but when you do dive in you’ll realise it is one of the better dungeon crawlers out right now. It’s bursting at the seems with love for this genre, and some of that might just rub off on you after a while.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Essentially LOST meets Impact Winter, there’s a lot to love about The Wild Eight. A few bugs and niggles hold it back from being great, but its intriguing story filled with mystery and surprises will keep players hooked. Even when you die (which you likely will), you’ll be keen to jump back in just to find out what waits around the next corner. If you’re a fan of survival games, or looking to dip your toes into the genre, The Wild Eight is worth venturing into.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It’s clear to see that One Piece Pirate Warriors 4 is one of the best and most enjoyable games based on the hit One Piece franchise. It has a terrific roster of characters that are brought to life like never before, its story is ridiculously entertaining, there’s plenty of content, and the action has been tweaked in ways that make it feel surprisingly fresh. Whether you’re a fan of Warriors games or One Piece, One Piece Pirate Warriors 4 is easy to recommend.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With the Metroidvania genre seemingly being one of the most popular right now, fans are stacked with choices when it comes to what to play. And while Cookie Cutter might not be at the top of the pile, it does stand out for a number of reasons. Its hand-drawn art is wonderful to behold, and its punk spirit will no doubt be very attractive to some. Then there’s the combat, which has its issues but is mostly chaotic in the best way. Ultimately, then, while it’s not going to win any awards, you could do a lot worse than spend time with Cookie Cutter.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    As good an entry into the hidden cat genre as any, Cats Around Us: Giant Cat has you searching out cartoon mogs in a quirky comic book environment. There are only four levels here, though, alongside four small jigsaw puzzles to complete – but given the tiny asking price, it's hard to mind too much.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Part management sim, part roguelike, Undead Inc. has a few rough edges but it's still a treat for wannabe Umbrella Corp CEOs. Just remember to leave your ethics at the door.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For ardent rally fans then, WRC 7 is well worth a look. The often dull visuals are well worth enduring for the brilliant track design on offer, and after some tweaking the handling model is very rewarding. It’s doesn’t do much to improve on last year’s offering, but those after up-to-date teams and a new challenge to get stuck into will find that it does just enough to make their investment worthwhile.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Once you’re over the initial shock of visual differences you’ll come to find Exist Archive is essentially a third Valkyrie Profile game in almost every possible way.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    You’re not going to blown away by Katana Kami: A Way of the Samurai Story. Don’t expect it to amaze you in any way. It is, however, a very enjoyable dungeon crawler that’s very easy to sink time into. Developing powerful swords and using them to get further into a cavernous dungeon is as engrossing as you’d expect it to be. And the fact that those swords could be lost at any moment should you suffer defeat adds tension. This isn’t the Way of the Samurai experience you’re probably used to, but it’s just as entertaining nonetheless.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    We feel like there’s a lot standing between you and the potential enjoyment to be hand in Paleo Pines. Its initial lack of direction can be frustrating, and there are some really questionable design choices that only serve to hinder you. Get past those obstacles, though, and playing Paleo Pines can be an enjoyable experience, allowing players plenty of freedom to play however they want to. Is it the best farming simulator out there? Certainly not. But it does have dinosaurs – and absolutely adorable ones at that.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With its impressive visuals and non-stop action, Bright Memory: Infinite is worth a look for those who value thrills over playing time. Beyond multiple difficulty levels there’s not much reason to spend more time it, and that’s a real shame as we’d love to get into more scrapes as the capable Shelia, despite her awful name.

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