Overall I really did enjoy my time with Return to Monkey Island. It has multiple endings, difficulty settings, ghost chickens, and a metric ton of stuff to discover. My personal gripes aside, it was clearly made with a lot of care, and is probably the best-playing game in the series. Fan or not, I recommend giving it a go. [Issue #62 – November/December 2022, p. 29]

Frustrations aside, I will say that at its core, Pac-Man World Re-Pac is still a solid platformer. You have to get yourself into a 1999 frame of mind in order to appreciate its action, but once you do, you can genuinely enjoy the quest to rescue Pac-Man's guests. [Issue #62 – November/December 2022, p. 69]

The Order of the Stone succeeds with strong storytelling and captivating choices. [Issue #20 – March/April 2016, p.21]

Hot Wheels Unleashed is hard. Like, unnecessarily so. I hope that the developers, after reading feedback about the too-tough difficulty level, will patch the game to be more accessible to Hot Wheels' biggest fans: small kids! [Issue #56 – November/December 2021, p. 72]

Its borrowed elements are sometimes lacking, but the story, characters and combat make for a stroll down the garden path that's far from ordinary. [Issue #20 – March/April 2016, p.70]

There's a lot to love and appreciate, but the sum fell short of greatness for me. [Issue #36 – November/December 2018, p. 18]

3D After Burner II is not a deep game in the slightest, but it is a lot of fun and great for quick pick-up-and-play sessions. [Issue #14: Old vs. New – March/April 2015, p.27]

It's a shame that Digital Eclipse couldn't iron out all the wrinkles, but despite all that, Mega Man Legacy Collection is a decent little package. [Issue #20 – March/April 2016, p.71]

The game is definitely worth spending time with, but I'd be hesitant to break it out at a party where people are unfamiliar with the franchise. [Issue #45 – March/April 2020, p. 21]

If you're looking to get the most enjoyment out of this title, it's best to play with family or invite a bunch of friends over – it's a solid collection for get-togethers, but lacking in the solo play department. [Issue #56 – November/December 2021, p. 74]

If you're looking for an experience that's never the same twice, The Swindle will not leave you disappointed. [Issue #18 – November/December 2015, p.21]

A decent enough package as LEGO games go. [Issue #32 – March/April 2018, p. 68]

If you've got an interest in historical fiction, if you loved Ace Attorney or if you like whimsical 19th century artwork, then pay a visit to the Aviary Attorney law offices. [Issue #45 – March/April 2020, p. 22]

At least we've got Fighters Pass #2 to still look forward to! [Issue #45 – March/April 2020, p. 28]

When I first saw Narita Boy, I thought it was too good to be true. Three of my favorite things Ð Tron, beautiful 2D animation and weird indie games Ð all in one package? Somebody pinch me! Overall, the game mostly delivers on that trifecta, but some of it made me sleepy. Thankfully, it ends with the promise of a souped-up sequel in a whole new genre. Here's hoping this modern digital boy is on to bigger and brighter things. [Issue #53 – July/August 2021, p. 22]

Miitopia is a fun first RPG for young kids, and while it can also be fun for adults, the game quickly gets repetitive and unrewarding. It would be better as a multiplayer game on Switch, or even an online outing that had more to do. It really defeats itself as a solo game. Its real appeal lies not in the RPG adventure itself, then, but in how wildly robust the new Mii-making interface is. Some people may want to pick up the game for that feature alone. [Issue #53 – July/August 2021, p. 73]

I had high expectations for R-Type Final 2; its direct predecessor is one of my favorite games in the genre. To this day, I still rant to strangers about its massive collection of bizarre ships, its daringly cryptic branching paths and its boldly avant-garde final stage. The sequel doesn't quite soar to the same heights, but after you start unlocking its better content, it "finally" becomes a solid, compelling, long overdue return to the beloved, iconic series. [Issue #53 – July/August 2021, p. 74]

I happened to overhear my sons playing this as a pair while I was in another room, and they were rolling with laughter at how terribly they were failing. A video game that's still fun even when you aren't winning? Programancer can be proud of that! [Issue #59 – May/June 2022, p. 24]

Sega Ages: Columns II offers the most enjoyment I've managed to get out of this series to date [Issue #44 – January/February 2020, p. 20]

It's hilarious in its best moments, causing delightful fits of giggles, but it's not that long in the tooth and doesn't hold up as well to repeated play sessions. [Issue #30 – November/December 2017, p. 19]

As a lifelong Ranger fan, I still feel that this is a pretty good package as far as budget titles go. [Issue #40 – July/August 2019, p. 19]

The differences from the original game put me off a bit initially, but the more I played, the more I grew to like what this sequel does. Luminous Avenger iX 2 may not be the new apeX of 2D action, but it's still worth a look if this kind of game interests you. [Issue #59 – May/June 2022, p. 25]

Overwhelm is a worthwhile experiment in good, clean, nerve-wracking, terrifying fun. [Issue #40 – July/August 2019, p. 19]

Sadly, about 10% of the game stands in the way of enjoying the other 90. [Issue #44 – January/February 2020, p. 63]

As it stands at launch, Nintendo Switch Sports is a good game and a fun way to revisit the spirit of the Wii Sports era. But if you're on the fence, wait a few months (or a year) to see if the added-later content adds more value. [Issue #59 – May/June 2022, p. 68]

This game may not look like much, but she's got it where it counts, kid. [Issue #46 – May/June 2020, p. 27]

The game's simple charm matched with a deep level creation toolset makes Chicken Wiggle a pretty enjoyable package! [Issue #30 – November/December 2017, p. 24]

I enjoyed my time with Rune Factory 5 and I'm hopeful that its shortcomings will result in an even better entry in the future if we get one. (And hopefully sooner than a decade away, too.) Rune Factory 5 captures what matters most in a farming sim: a charming world and cast, and a cozy experience that will keep you coming back whenever you want to take it easy. [Issue #59 – May/June 2022, p. 76]

This is exactly the kind of game Atari used to make back in its heyday, except considerably more modern. Regardless of whether or not you're a fan of the Atari brand, though, Kombinera is a fantastic little puzzle game. It may occasionally be too difficult for its own good, but if you're into this kind of thing, you're just about guaranteed to have a ball. [Issue #60 – July/August 2022, p. 20]

A fine way to get your feet wet with Falcom's long-running series. [Issue #50 – January/February 2021, p. 23]

I like it – but it's really still just a proof of concept. [Issue #29, p. 22]

It's just you, a virtual catalog of different generically themed LEGOs, billions of bricks and your imagination to use as you wish, whether it be build or explore. [Issue #30 – November/December 2017, p. 63]

Overall, there's enough charm here in Shakedown: Hawaii to wring out a number of hours of enjoyment. [Issue #40 – July/August 2019, p. 28]

A flawed but fascinating addition to an excellent action film franchise. [Issue #51 – March/April 2021, p. 70]

For an updated 7-year-old game, Rune Factory 4 Special does hold up fairly well. [Issue #46 – May/June 2020, p. 73]

Fire Emblem Warriors on the New Nintendo 3DS is almost as good as its big-screen sibling. [Issue #30 – November/December 2017, p. 65]

It's probably kindest to think of Tokyo Mirage Sessions as a necessary stepping stone on the path to better games for everyone. [Issue #46 – May/June 2020, p. 74]

Mario, Sonic and Crash don't have to worry about losing their parking spots with anyone but the most diehard Nick fans. But as these things go? They did all right. [Issue #50 – January/February 2021, p. 71]

While I liked it well enough, I think it's the bigger Cars enthusiasts that will get the most out of this one. [Issue #29, p. 71]

It's competent, but not spectacular, yet it does justice to its source material, despite ending before this chapter's title is really justified. [Issue #52 – May/June 2021, p. 20]

If you're just here to knock monster heads around, you'll get bored quickly. $30 is too much to recommend this one, unless you're a really big fan of kaiju action and story, or you want to get really deep into the customization aspect. Without unlockables or much variety in gameplay, the game's initial punch of awesome fades quickly. Still, this game could be just the start of something bigger. If Dawn of the Monsters turns out to be just the dawn of a new series, perhaps its sequels could build more on the foundation of this one's ruined cityscapes. [Issue #60 – July/August 2022, p. 27]

It takes some great steps in the right direction in terms of modernizing this series – but it doesn't quite stick the landing. [Issue #52 – May/June 2021, p. 22]

Anodyne 2 is like nothing I've played before. That in and of itself is a feat in today's oversaturated market. [Issue #52 – May/June 2021, p. 23]

All the new bells and whistles are great, but I lost interest fairly quickly. [Issue #58 – March/April 2022, p. 21]

If the idea of blinking LED lights as a game doesn't excited you, stay far away from Dot Arcade. [Issue #15; May/June 2015, p.25]

If you're down for a lengthy adventure filled with frustrating trials and tribulations, then Etrian Mystery Dungeon might by perfect for you. [Issue #15; May/June 2015, p.74]

Fossil Fighters: Frontier is simply a good introductory RPG packed to the brim with dinosaurs – and that may be just what the young gamer in your life will want soon, when the dino-craze takes over once more. [Issue #15; May/June 2015, p.76]

If you've got a hunger for factory management sims and know how to think like a well-oiled machine, you'll want to pick this one up. [Issue #42 – October 2019, p. 23]

If you're a diehard Octopath fan and want to dive further into the lore, then this game is for you; otherwise, it's going to go completely over your head, and you'd be better off sticking with the core series on the Switch. [Issue #63 – January/February 2023, p. 24]

Daemon X Machina has a lot of personality when it comes to moment-to-moment action, but everything else sometimes feels like an afterthought. [Issue #42 – October 2019, p. 72]

For all its perplexing, strange and sometimes outright defiant design decisions, I still had fun playing it. And that's what matters most, right? [Issue #43 – November/December 2019, p. 13SH]

If you love Pac-Man, consider a purchase – but I'd still wait for a price drop. [Issue #38 – March/April 2019, p. 73]

Compared to the original, Fairune 2's highs are higher, but the lows are lower, proving that bigger isn't always better. [Issue #25 – January/February 2017, p.20]

The prodigal daughter has returned! [Issue #25 – January/February 2017, p.21]

Super Mario Maker for Nintendo 3DS is the barebones, no-frills, no-extra-options-selected factory model version of its original, tricked-out 2015 Wii U release. [Issue #25 – January/February 2017, p.64]

As a lapsed fan of the Dragon Ball series, Fusions was, for the most part, a delightful return trip to this action-packed and often ridiculous world. [Issue #25 – January/February 2017, p.68]

Despite its shortcomings, Kirby Star Allies is a fun, casual outing. [Issue #33 – May/June 2018, p. 67]

After the disappointing slog that was The Lost Valley, Skytree Village is a breath of fresh air. [Issue #25 – January/February 2017, p.76]

It's a testament to how compelling Loop Hero's core gameplay "loop" is that you never feel punished by putting in the extra time as long as you're in the right headspace. [Issue #57 – January/February 2022, p. 17]

A great story for both Pokémon fans and mystery fans – of all ages! [Issue #33 – May/June 2018, p. 73]

A visually beautiful, constantly eye-catching adventure. [Issue #33 – May/June 2018, p. 75]

Only X8 makes Mega Man X Legacy Collection 2 worthy of serious consideration. [Issue #35 – September/October 2018, p. 65]

Sky Skipper isn't worth buying to enjoy as a game, but it is worth buying as a historical curiosity – and to show support to those who brought it back to life! [Issue #37 – January/February 2019, p. 26]

Mario Sports Superstars is not the ultimate collection of athletic adaptations some were hoping for. [Issue #27 – May/June 2017, p. 71]

Odds are you've already experienced it for yourself in the past eight years, but just in case you haven't, it might be worth a shot. [Issue #35 – September/October 2018, p. 21]

Tumblestone's relatively lofty price is worth it for its fresh and fun take on puzzling. [Issue #23 – September/October 2016, p.21]

Mega Man Legacy Collection 2 is worth picking up, but it pales in comparison to its predecessor. [Issue #34 – July/August 2018, p. 67]

It falters when it focuses more on completion and less on just seeing the countryside. It's fun for stretches, but maybe not for completionists. [Issue #35 – September/October 2018, p. 72]

Overcooked! 2 is a dish worth tasting, as seconds of a great dish can often be more rewarding – especially with the added ingredient of online. [Issue #35 – September/October 2018, p. 74]

If you're a fan of environmental puzzles, Doomsday Vault makes traversing the post-apocalypse surprisingly relaxing and, well, downright pleasant. [Issue #55 – October 2021, p. 25]

Less than a year ago, ININ Games published Space Invaders Forever on Switch. It has three games for $30. This Invincible Collection has those same three titles, plus eight more, for $60. That's a better deal, but those who bought the earlier release are sure to feel flimflammed. [Issue #55 – October 2021, p. 26]

Some aspects of Devil's Third are top-notch, in both design and polish . . . though I wouldn't trust it to do my taxes. [Issue #19 – January/February 2016, p.71]

While it may not solidify the burgeoning franchise as an alternative to Pokémon, Yo-kai Watch 2 is nonetheless another solid RPG in 3DS's library, especially for younger gamers. [Issue #24 – November/December 2016, p.12M]

When the stars align and Sportsball is the main event in a gathering of friends, it shines. [Issue #16 – July/August 2015, p.22]

OlliOlli takes old-school sensibilities and mixes them up with today's skateboarding culture. [Issue #16 – July/August 2015, p.25]

If you're looking for a title that is written for the modern romance game fan and/or dog lover in mind, this one is worth fetching. [Issue #49 – November/December 2020, p. 22]

Play it on a long train ride. [Issue #16 – July/August 2015, p.31]

Lord of Magna's not a bad game, it just feels unfinished. [Issue #16 – July/August 2015, p.72]

I prefer the Dr. Marios that I can pay for just one time, then play as much as I want for a few decades thereafter. [Issue #41 – September 2019, p. 20]

Super Kiwi 64 is a 3D platformer that, true to its name, looks and plays exactly like the games we got on the real Nintendo 64 back in the late '90s. Just know that you'll only be getting one afternoon's worth of enjoyment out of this one, rather than the whole childhood weekend or more you enjoyed with its inspiration, Banjo- Kazooie, back in the day. [Issue #64 – March/April 2023, p. 33]

LEGO Jurassic World is as "more of the same" as a game gets. [Issue #16 – July/August 2015, p.74]

Sonic Frontiers is a brave experiment that struggles to express its intentions while still committing many of its series' 3D sins. But if you're able to commit to learning its idiosyncrasies, you'll discover a fun, addictive journey unlike any in Sonic's past. [Issue #64 – March/April 2023, p. 71]

River City Saga: Three Kingdoms leads with an incredible premise and promising gameplay tools, only to become encumbered by those very same elements. Your dreams of hot-blooded conquest in imperial China can be realized eventually, though you'll wish that experience had been available right from the beginning! [Issue #61 – September/October 2022, p. 27]

The scattered blessings of Deadly Premonition 2 are often disguised by the game's many blemishes, but I'm still more than happy that I got to drink in another adventure with York and company. [Issue #49 – November/December 2020, p. 67]

With fluid animations, strong vocal performances and a cultural variety that most contemporary games regrettably lack, Indivisible is most certainly worthy of our attention. [Issue #47 – July/August 2020, p. 66]

Nintendo had the chance to knock this one out of the park, but they settled for a bunt. [Issue #49 – November/December 2020, p. 72]

There's a lot holding this one back from being as fun as the MCU – but it is a fun game if you follow its parameters. [Issue #41 – September 2019, p. 70]

A really confusing game, in that it takes some of what made the modern era of Wolfenstein so great, then copies and pastes modern looter-shooter tropes on top. [Issue #41 – September 2019, p. 76]

Garden Story's on the short side, but it has plenty of options and content to really stretch your experience toward 100% completion. It's grape for all ages! [Issue #56 – November/December 2021, p. 21]

As a brawler, Senran Kagura 2 isn't half bad. [Issue #17 – September/October 2015, p.73]

While I love this game's style, the character of Renata and her faithful frog/gun the Frogun itself, the reality of actually playing the game sadly doesn't inspire quite as much of a smile as I got when I first saw this adventure revealed. [Issue #62 – November/December 2022, p. 24]

Bear & Breakfast has its share of issues, but it's filled with great characters, wonderful visuals and pretty sweet music. Hopefully it's a little more stable by the time this issue goes to print, and the devs implement some more U.I. improvements. My 3-star review: It's OK, but would be better with some extra polish. [Issue #62 – November/December 2022, p. 28]

A lot of the game feels like a rough draft, but it's simplistic enough for families to jump into for a quick match and have a lot of fun. Just don't expect to spend a ton of time with it. [Issue #56 – November/December 2021, p. 70]

3D Fantasy Zone may sting at times, but at least now you have enough ointment to soothe the burning. [Issue #14: Old vs. New – March/April 2015, p.26]

The next time it's a rainy afternoon and you're feeling stressed, you could do a lot worse than sinking a couple of dollars into the eShop and spending half an hour as a little green squid. [Issue #45 – March/April 2020, p. 23]

When Birthright transcends its repetition and monotony, it's on the same level of Awakening – but that happens far less often than I hoped. [Issue #20 – March/April 2016, p.74]

Tri Force Heroes is hit-or-miss depending on how you play it, but overall it's an adventure worth experiencing. [Issue #18 – November/December 2015, p.70]

Like many of Wada's previous titles, Little Dragons Café is heartwarming from beginning to end, but it has a few flaws in its design that detract from the overall experience. [Issue #36 – November/December 2018, p. 84]