INVEN's Scores

  • Games
For 366 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 54% higher than the average critic
  • 13% same as the average critic
  • 33% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 4.6 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 79
Highest review score: 100 Animal Well
Lowest review score: 30 The Lord of the Rings - Gollum
Score distribution:
  1. Negative: 4 out of 366
368 game reviews
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Moomintroll: Winter’s Warmth is a cozy game that feels like stepping into a beautifully edited storybook. Its gentle atmosphere makes it perfect for families to enjoy together, while themes of friendship and growth blend naturally with light interactive elements, creating the feeling of playing through a fairy tale being read aloud.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Vampire Crawlers is both a spin-off of the developer’s previous title Vampire Survivors and a game that belongs to an entirely different genre. Even so, it faithfully carries over the core formula that made the original so compelling, delivering the same highly addictive gameplay and extended playtime experience.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Pragmata is a masterfully crafted experience that centers its entire rhythm on the captivating duo of Hugh and Diana. While the core plot may be simple, it is elevated into a beautifully atmospheric story through deep characterization and exceptional presentation. The game perfectly balances their unique traits—shooting and hacking—within a framework of exceptional level design and meticulously tight combat encounters.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tomodachi Life is all about those cozy, 'small talk' vibes. It’s not a big party game, but there’s a quiet charm in crafting things and watching your island grow bit by bit through your Miis—all at your own pace.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Life is Strange: Reunion feels like a gift to fans, built around Max and Chloe’s long-awaited reunion. Yet that focus comes at a cost—supporting characters, world-building, and even the final choice feel diminished. Still, the two leads retain their bittersweet charm.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A hardcore 3D platformer where countless deaths and failures serve as the foundation for a single, perfect run. The transition to a 3D environment brings Z-axis depth and camera issues that occasionally cause unfair falls, leaving some room for improvement. However, the series' signature ultra-responsive controls and exquisite level design miraculously turn the pain of failure into a clear sense of accomplishment, delivering a brilliantly punishing challenge.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    A game built on what could be considered the most powerful IP in existence, it carries an almost sacred and reverent tone. Presented from a first-person perspective that follows the life of Jesus Christ, the game falls short of fully encompassing the breadth of the Bible, with a relatively short playtime and some rough edges in its execution. However, it succeeds in conveying the kind of world Jesus sought to create, as well as the core of his teachings.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fighting game legend Daisuke Ishiwatari has made his debut in the top-down shooter adventure genre. While clunky enemy AI, hitbox issues, and lackluster sound are disappointing, the game successfully blends top-down shooting with the deep exploration of classic JRPGs and the fun of platformer adventures. I look forward to seeing further improvements through the announced update roadmap.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    The eleventh expansion of World of Warcraft introduces a range of new content, including housing and additional features, along with new talents. However, the most significant change is that addons are no longer supported in the game. Blizzard prepared various measures to prevent the resulting disruption, but not all side effects could be avoided, making this an expansion defined by what feels like an “inevitable chaos.” That said, there is clearly room for improvement, and the future still holds promise.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Crimson Desert unfolds in a vast open world filled with an enormous amount of content, but there are simply too many gameplay elements scattered without order, clashing with one another. There is room for improvement, but as it stands now, it falls somewhat short of being a truly great game.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Pokémon Pokopia prompts deep reflection on an age-old question: can Pokémon truly be happy in a world without trainers? The game suggests they're most at peace on their own — yet they still depend on a Ditto taking on a human role, which complicates that very notion. These thematic layers, however, only land because the game itself is genuinely fun. Deep systems, heartfelt bonds with adorable Pokémon, freeform base building, a relaxed pace, and thoughtful design that trims the tedium all come together to make for a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Monster Hunter Stories3 sheds the juvenile tone of its predecessors, delivering a profound narrative and deep progression through its new 'Rewilding' system. By adding strategic depth to the classic rock-paper-scissors combat, it has finally transcended its spin-off roots to fully realize its identity. For fans of monster-taming RPGs and hunters seeking a fresh take on the hunt, this is the definitive choice.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    From classic survival horror to brisk action, there is nothing about Resident Evil Requiem that feels out of place for the series. Bringing together three decades of history is no small task, doing so in a way that feels genuinely fun is even harder. Yet Resident Evil Requiem pulls off this seemingly reckless ambition with remarkable confidence.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A standout title that successfully balances both roguelike elements and SRPG depth. Its rough-edged visuals, offbeat black humor, and somewhat predictable early turn-based exchanges may pose an initial hurdle. Push past that, however, and you’ll find a rich playground of builds and combinations, where genetics, roguelike progression, and class systems intertwine to offer remarkable variety and replay value.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Sons of Sparta ends up as an uneven effort that falls short in both story and gameplay. Neither a compelling spin-off nor a satisfying side-scrolling action title, it struggles under the weight of the God of War name and never quite lives up to it.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Tarsier Studios' new title, REANIMAL, overwhelms players with its grotesque atmosphere and direction. Its strengths lie in the immersion created by a UI-free interface, proactive action, and AI cooperation. While the short playtime and the easing of tension in the latter half are regrettable, Tarsier's unique horror formula is excellent.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Kiwami 3, burdened with the series’ greatest expectations and doubts, set out to preserve the original story while filling its gaps. Though not flawless, it ultimately overcomes its limits, coming closest yet to the “Kiwami” ideal.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Dragon Quest VII Reimagined wraps 40 years of tradition in charming, modern puppet-theater visuals. Its story and art shine, but dated combat and reduced depth may divide players. Lacking flashy thrills, it rewards those who appreciate a slow, subtle richness.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    An open field and two distinct battle styles mark Nioh 3’s key changes, blending well with the series’ trademark difficulty. While enemy variety remains limited, it is well suited to test your skills and kick off the year with intensity.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Dynasty Warriors: Origins – Visions of Four Heroes feels like a somewhat half-hearted DLC when compared to the excellent main game. Each individual story is interesting, and the newly added content doesn’t look bad at first glance, but the price is far too high for the amount of content on offer, and the game’s balance has become oddly skewed. Even so, because the base game itself is so strong, the experience remains enjoyable to play.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Cairn goes beyond a simple climbing game, turning the human drive to endure pain in pursuit of a summit into play. Its meticulous physics give weight to the question of why we keep moving forward, delivering a thoughtful take on struggle and achievement.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Arknights: Endfield is an anime-style RPG that skillfully blends adventure, action, and factory simulation into a cohesive whole. Its distinctive art direction balances realistic textures with stylized characters, while strategic combat, well-structured building and production systems, and solid optimization come together without any obvious weak points.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    MIO experiments with a range of ideas within the Metroidvania framework. Some of these changes stand out, while others fail to push beyond boundaries already explored by the genre. Still, its dreamlike world and the sense of mystery that holds it together give these efforts—and their limitations—a distinctive charm.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Metroid Prime 4 isn’t the perfect answer to 18 years of anticipation, nor does it always match the brilliance of the earlier entries often hailed as masterpieces. Still, that doesn’t mean it falls short where it counts. It may not hit every note fans hoped for, but both longtime players and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy—and enough moments that remind them why this series endured in the first place.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The essence of a true B-grade game returns. Beneath its off-kilter weirdness lies combat that strikes at the core of action itself—distance control and psychological pressure. The title may insist you should ‘let it die,’ but ironically, it’s a descent into hell that makes you fight to live more desperately than ever.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    My Little Puppy is a heartfelt digital tribute that gently comforts those facing pet loss. Its charming Corgi details shine, though the clunky controls are a drawback. Still, the story of a departed companion coming to meet you transcends its technical limits, offering a warm, resonant experience for anyone grieving a beloved pet.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    “Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up, but a comedy in long-shot.” Charlie Chaplin’s words capture Black Ops 7 in a single stroke. The campaign disappoints when viewed as a traditional Call of Duty experience, but if you set your expectations aside and view it simply as a co-op experience, it goes down a bit easier. Meanwhile, its multiplayer endures, drawing players back with reliable run-and-gun pacing and solid gunplay.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    ANNO 117: PAX ROMANA is not a typical city builder; it is a simulator that requires balancing supply and demand within a detailed economic system while also considering diplomacy. The result is a deeply engaging experience, though the high level of concentration it demands can be somewhat exhausting.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The two-year wait for the new FM entry proves to be half worth it. The remaining half will depend on how well future patches refine the experience after launch.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    With its high production values and accessibility, ARC Raiders secures a strong position in the extraction shooter market. Having taken a step toward popularizing the genre, its long-term success now depends on careful post-launch planning.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Ninja Gaiden 4 marks a successful revival of the series, signaling a strong new beginning. Despite divisive elements like a new protagonist and revamped combat system, everything comes together seamlessly. However, the narrative - while more serious in tone - falls short of its ambitious potential, leaving some lingering disappointment.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Mega Evolution! By embracing a real-time combat system that fits the series perfectly, the new title raised its pure fun factor to modern standards. While improved graphics and optimization shine, the small-scale maps, repetitive content, and lack of the forward-looking vision fans expected from the Legends series hold it back.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    The Outer Worlds 2 showcases Obsidian's RPG mastery through meaningful choices and dynamic character building, though the world lacks the vibrancy of modern open-world games.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Battlefield 6 was released with many expectations riding on it, but it’s not quite the spectacular game people had hoped for. The campaign lacks polish in terms of quality, and the multiplayer reward system is deeply flawed. Nevertheless, the game retains the core gameplay and fun that the Battlefield series is known for, leaving room to hope for a better future.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    "Little Witch in the Woods" can feel like tedious labor if approached with efficiency in mind, but taken at a slower pace, it becomes a true healing experience. Depending on the player’s mindset, it offers a charming and relaxing adventure that stands out as a delightful gem.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Claws of Awaji is a compelling DLC that introduces fresh gameplay mechanics and new weapons absent from the base game. However, the dual-protagonist narrative once again falls short, and the fact that it feels essential to buy for story completion may divide players.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    For fans of KCD II, this is a long-awaited DLC. Henry finally gets his own home, bringing him closer to the everyday life of Kuttenberg’s citizens. The way it enriches the overall gameplay makes it a worthwhile addition on its own.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    Hades II captures the essence of the roguelike genre with the mastery expected from a roguelite specialist. Building on the strengths of its predecessor, it adds more variety and depth, enriching the overall experience.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Ghost of Yōtei surpasses its predecessor in every respect—from its meticulously refined mise-en-scène to combat systems and polished side quests. Yet compared to the sharp conflicts that defined the earlier narrative, its more straightforward storytelling may feel somewhat simplified.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Though its heavier focus on action initially raised concerns among longtime fans, the series’ trademark psychological horror and mystery remain intact in its new 1960s Japan setting. With Ryukishi07’s solid storytelling and layered replay value, it firmly retains the essence of Silent Hill.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Dying Light: The Beast is a sequel that successfully captures Techland’s signature grimy and eerie hostile environment. The new gameplay systems and neatly refined narrative are satisfying, but for an open-world game, it somewhat lacks the motivation to keep players engaged over the long term.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Under the direction of a BAFTA-winning lead, Road To Empress shines with strong performances and a historically grounded story. However, despite its slogan that “choices shape history,” most decisions follow a linear, answer-finding structure, leaving its depth as an interactive game somewhat lacking.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The Trails series remake celebrates 20 years by refining its legacy with fast-paced combat and modern full-3D presentation, while preserving the original’s charm. Despite some old-fashioned inconveniences, it’s a well-made remake that will excite any JRPG fan and serve as an ideal entry point to the series.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Borderlands 4 preserves the series’ most essential DNA while delivering meaningful innovation. Although its open-world structure is not yet fully refined and shows some rough edges, the game remains immensely enjoyable and unmistakably Borderlands.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Shape of Dreams eases the repetitiveness of roguelites through varied systems, keeping monotony at bay. With beautiful visuals, distinctive characters, and excellent clarity, it stands as a well-crafted hack-and-slash experience.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The sequel surpassed the original - Silksong achieves what’s often deemed impossible. In story, action, and presentation, it embodies everything a sequel should. However, its heightened difficulty may frustrate, feeling unforgiving to anyone who hasn’t mastered the first game’s toughest challenges.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The protagonist-centered narrative and wide array of character crossovers give Super Robot Wars a stronger sense of identity, elevating its trademark storytelling to new heights. The difficulty has been fine-tuned, moving away from luck-based swings and instead rewarding players who approach each battle with careful strategy. Animation work shows clear improvements, though the uneven quality across different units still keeps the presentation from feeling fully polished. Meanwhile, quality-of-life features lag behind, leaving room for future updates to better match modern standards.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    The game blends a linear stage structure with Metroidvania-inspired design, adding value to both replayability and exploration. Its sharp action and striking artistic direction create gameplay so engaging that players may not even notice the underlying structure. More than just the revival of the Shinobi franchise, it firmly establishes itself as a game that is simply, and purely, fun.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    There’s a common dilemma that no matter how well it's done, a remake of a beloved original can never quite surpass it. However, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater faithfully recreates the original and, with its new camera system, offers a fresh perspective that makes it worth experiencing all over again. Still, some of the scenes from 20 years ago inevitably come across as awkward by today’s standards.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mafia returns with a new classic, story-driven action-adventure. It's a dense and classic take on the series' beginnings and the origins of the mafia. The realistic graphics and authentic sound design bring Sicily to life, making you want to visit the island yourself.
    • 91 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    By turning its core game design toward destruction rather than creation, Donkey Kong Bananza shines as a work of bold innovation. If The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild redefined open-world exploration, then Bananza carves out a space of its own in the realm of 3D platformers. It's a must-play if you own a Switch 2—and if you don't, it's the first title that should go on your wishlist.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Wuchang: Fallen Feathers doesn’t redefine the soulslike genre, nor does it aim to. But with its eye-catching visuals and flashy action, it offers a satisfying experience for players seeking style and spectacle in their soulslike adventures.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    Mecha BREAK is a game that has emerged like a beacon of hope for fans at a time when new releases in this genre are rare. It's a relatively low-stress PvP shooter that can be enjoyed casually, but there are still many aspects outside of the gameplay that need refinement.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    'Broken Arrow' is a blessing for wargame fans who prefer realistic battlefields. With its depiction of modern and near-future combat and a deeply engaging gameplay system, the game is highly enjoyable. However, it’s not a game for everyone, and there are still some lingering stability issues.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Compared to its predecessor, Death Stranding 2 delivers a far more refined experience in every aspect—from gameplay to narrative pacing. The stunning visual presentation and tightly directed storytelling keep you engaged right up to the end. While the repetitive gameplay may cause a brief sense of fatigue in the middle, the powerful climax makes it all worthwhile.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The Alters is the title that best showcases 11 bit studios strength in narrative design. It delivers a compelling and immersive story that highlights how each choice affects the game and leads to different outcomes. It’s a well-crafted game where choices, consequences, and survival all come together seamlessly.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The mysterious worldbuilding of Control and Remedy’s signature presentation still shine through. However, repetitive mission structures, sluggish progression, and a steep early-game barrier make this surreal stage feel less captivating. While the fresh gimmicks and cooperative elements offer clear appeal, the game needs both stronger early engagement and more lasting motivation to truly stand out.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Lies of P: Overture is a most welcome expansion for fans. From the story and boss battles to new weapons, it adds meaningful depth across the board. While it does have the inherent limitations of an expansion, it’s a must-play for fans, as it completes Lies of P’s narrative as a prequel.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Monster Train 2 is a well-crafted roguelike deck-building game that, even at launch, already provides a solid foundation for delivering the kind of gameplay fantasy most players are looking for. While the genre might not appeal to everyone and could be challenging for some, the game boasts an impressive level of polish and quality.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Fantasy Life i is far more than just a healing RPG—the game is built on three solid pillars: town-building, combat, and adventure, each with surprising depth and polish. As long as you can embrace its childlike visuals and whimsical interactions, it offers a rewarding experience for players of all ages, allowing everyone to enjoy the game at their own pace.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Elden Ring Nightreign proves that even Soulslikes can become fully-fledged co-op experiences. While it has its shortcomings, there's no denying the quality of its design. The only concern is that FromSoftware has little to no experience with live service models—here's hoping they don’t abandon it post-launch.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    The simple addition of a "shield" has drastically changed the game. Combat has become formulaic, forcing players to constantly think on their feet and react specifically to green-marked enemy attacks. The game is certainly fun, but the instinct-driven, fully immersive combat that once defined the essence of DOOM has noticeably faded.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    A new RTS that evokes classics like C&C and StarCraft. Its familiar UI and layout are impressively reworked to be accessible even for RTS newcomers. However, Tempest Rising still lacks defining elements to establish a unique identity, and the absence of features like replay support leaves something to be desired in terms of polish.
    • 91 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Just a while ago, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 could have been called a dark horse — a hidden gem with untapped potential. But not anymore. With its official release, it’s proven itself worthy of being a Game of the Year contender.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    You can now enjoy Lunar: Silver Star Story and Lunar: Eternal Blue in a single title. While there aren’t major visual upgrades, the cleaner presentation, still-impressive animation, and added battle speed options make for a much smoother experience. Though many aspects of the game feel dated, for those with fond memories, it’s like the heart-fluttering feeling of meeting a first love all over again.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 65 Critic Score
    A fighting game spin-off that basically turned into a full-on dating sim with cute girls. The graphics and presentation really capture the whole dating vibe, and the game's well-designed so you can easily follow the route you want. It's just a bit of a shame that the photo-focused, static setup doesn’t quite show off how lively the character models could be.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    A game that faced more negative controversy prior to release than almost any other, yet its actual gameplay is far from the mess many expected. With classic Ubisoft-style open-world gameplay, stunning visuals, impressive lighting effects, and solid action, Assassin's Creed Shadows may fall short of being a masterpiece, but it's still an enjoyable and well-crafted experience.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Yumia’s Atelier is a game that mixes the classic alchemy RPG style with today’s popular open-world gameplay. The main character looks great, the battles feel quick and fun, and it’s really satisfying to make items easily while exploring the world. But the game could be better when it comes to performance, and a lot of the open-world quests feel kind of repetitive.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    The First Berserker: Khazan is a game that most action RPG fans will likely enjoy. While it has its flaws and falls short of being a masterpiece, it delivers exactly what was expected. At the very least, it’s a solid and well-crafted title.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Hazelight Studios sets a new benchmark for co-op games with Split Fiction. Its dynamic split-screen cinematography and genre-blending gameplay keep things constantly engaging. For those who resonate with the creative struggles highlighted in the age of AI, the story may strike an even deeper chord.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    FragPunk brings a fresh twist to the classic 5v5 team-based FPS by blending hyper-FPS elements with rule-altering cards. It offers plenty of variety, including casual-friendly deathmatches and the Outbreak mode, a unique take on the zombie formula. However, the lack of a proper tutorial, somewhat unclear audio design, and matchmaking issues hold it back.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Project Tachyon stays true to the roguelike formula, challenging players to adapt to randomly generated environments and loadouts. While the unbalanced weaponry and predictable enemy patterns are noticeable drawbacks, the game shines in its replayability, offering adjustable difficulty settings that cater to different skill levels.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Two Point series returns with a museum theme. Despite added complexity from research, exploration, and interlinked systems, it retains its signature casual charm, making it a great entry point for management sims. However, the cluttered UI struggles to keep up with the game's expanded depth.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Monster Hunter Wilds has everything it takes to be a Game of the Year contender. It masterfully refines the series’ essence, delivering the most exhilarating and weighty hunting action yet. While the increased system requirements may be a hurdle, the sheer enjoyment makes it well worth the effort.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    After tackling its most serious story, the latest Like a Dragon embarks on its most lighthearted adventure. Majima and the pirates are a perfect match, and the narrative ties up neatly in a single installment. Naval battles may feel light, but Majima’s determination to fulfill a ten-year-old boy’s dream is anything but.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    A well-crafted suspense game that cleverly weaves urban legends and social media into its narrative. While it lacks complex detective puzzles or interactive elements, the subtle hints and foreshadowing make it thrilling to piece together the story and see if your predictions come true.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    With its well-established lore, solid narrative, and highly polished world, Avowed is a fantastic game that lives up to Obsidian Entertainment’s reputation. However, compared to other games in the genre, its world feels overly rigid and lacks the sense of being truly alive, which keeps it from standing among the very best.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    The Virtua Fighter series returns to PC after 28 years, bringing its signature intuitive mechanics seamlessly adapted for keyboard controls. Even with excellent 4K support and optimization, it feels like a solid revival. However, the lackluster single-player content and unstable rollback netcode, struggling with severe ping issues, show that it still needs some fine-tuning.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has all the potential to be one of this year’s standout titles. It improves on its predecessor in every way, bringing 15th-century Europe to life with deep historical accuracy and rich cinematic storytelling. If you can embrace the first-person perspective, an unforgettable experience awaits.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Civilization VII refines its strategic depth through era transitions and civilization changes, though the most thrilling moments feel more spaced out. Despite these shifts, the game retains its signature "just one more turn" appeal—undeniably Civilization.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Dynasty Warriors series has a solidly enjoyable gameplay experience, but this paradoxically presents a weakness in its difficulty to innovate. However, Dynasty Warriors Origin is a definitive work that demonstrates how the series can evolve while maintaining its traditional values.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Marvel Rivals is a must-play for fans of the Marvel universe and hero shooters like Overwatch. With its polished, well-rounded gameplay and engaging design, it stands out as a near-perfect entry in the genre. This title has all the makings of a new flagship for team-based hero shooters.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    A standout collectible SRPG that brings charming characters to life with expressive graphics and strategic elements like suppressive fire. However, the lack of content to fully utilize its strategic potential and short daily playtime are notable drawbacks.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    If you are a fan of the original movie series, you will find complete satisfaction with this game. The unique elements of the original film—storyline, camera angles, visuals, sound design, and even clichés—are seamlessly incorporated into the gameplay. However, the somewhat lackluster action sequences leave something to be desired.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    GSC Game World brings its ambitions to life in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, with a hauntingly atmospheric open field that perfectly captures the bleak, morally ambiguous life of a stalker. However, severe technical issues make even shader compilation feel like a prayer-worthy event.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It’s great that the game retains the nostalgic feel of '90s Hong Kong, but the gameplay itself feels like something from console generations past. While it may not suit everyone, those with the right taste might still find it unexpectedly enjoyable.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    This game generally falls within the category of a decent ARPG. The combat feels satisfying, and the progression system provides a rewarding sense of growth. The main quest and especially the final chapters deliver plenty of excitement. the characters’ narratives lack intrigue, and there are aspects that may disappoint fans of the series.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    COD: BO6 presented its own answer regarding the direction of the single-player campaign that had continued for several years. While I'm quite satisfied with it, the narrative within feels lacking. It may not be the best Call of Duty, but it has the potential to be the best among its predecessors in the series.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Life is Strange: Double Exposure offers not only a wonderful opportunity to follow Max's story as an adult but also hints at a broader expansion of the universe. However, it’s uncertain if this will align with what fans have been hoping for. Like a double-exposed photograph, excitement and apprehension intertwine.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    The Romance of the Three Kingdoms series has been beloved for nearly 40 years, but it has now reached a point where a groundbreaking transformation is needed to attract more gamers. A remake of the 8th installment would be a suitable first step towards this transformation, creating a game that is both easier to play and more immersive.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Ys X successfully expands and evolves Falcom's action style. A clean, flowing story that befits the adventures of the young Adol is presented, accompanied by excellent BGM. Moreover, offering plenty of additional enjoyment through New Game+ was also delightful. The challenging content is also quite engaging, giving a glimpse of Falcom's efforts in preparing for a new era.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    This newly reimagined Silent Hill 2 after 23 years comes with modern systems while preserving the unique atmosphere and emotion of the original. Although there are some technical issues, it is more than enough to captivate both fans of the original and newcomers alike with the eerie charm of the fog-covered town.
    • 92 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    In short, this game feels like watching a fun, full-length anime. It seamlessly blends the systems of Shin Megami Tensei and Persona, while clearly delivering its story. Not only is it appealing to Atlus fans, but it’s also easy for newcomers who have never played their games before to dive right in.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    For over a year, Diablo 4 has been striving to understand the hearts of gamers, and this expansion pack is its first test. While there are positive changes in many areas, it still doesn't seem to have fully created a sense of connection with the players.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Maintaining a live service for 20 years is challenging enough, but continuously improving and showing a better version over that time is even harder. World of Warcraft has achieved that difficult feat, and even with the release of its 10th expansion, it continues to evolve.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The attempt to expand the "Dead by Daylight" universe with Supermassive's unique touch was a promising idea. However, the various issues within the game show that the synergy between these two talented developers didn’t fully reach its potential. Fans might find it worth a try, but for others, it may not leave much of an impression.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Frostpunk 2 has an irreplaceable charm. The distinct feelings of bleakness, solitude, and the desperate struggle for survival remain unparalleled, just as in its predecessor. The larger scale of the city, the conflicts arising between communities within, and the weighty decisions required to manage and mediate these tensions create a unique and engaging experience.
    • 94 Metascore
    • 95 Critic Score
    I'm not just saying Astrobot is a great game because it's fun as a platformer, or because it's full of PlayStation nostalgia. The real reason lies in how every element of the game is focused on delivering the 'pure joy of gaming'. Every aspect points in this direction, making it stand out as a truly remarkable experience.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    This is an excellent action title that captures the essence of being a Space Marine. The visceral thrill of shooting, slashing, and destroying everything in your path is incredibly satisfying, and the intriguing lore is expertly woven into the core gameplay. Although the AI can be somewhat lacking, and there are a few bugs and a slightly limited number of missions, the title's strengths far outweigh these minor drawbacks.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The game offers enough fan service to satisfy the original fans, making it worth the money. The visual quality is excellent, and the story is decent. However, the downside is that the game lacks content for a party game. While the quality of each mini-game is not bad, the repetitive nature makes it easy to get bored after a while.

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