Nintendo Insider's Scores

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For 947 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 53% higher than the average critic
  • 8% same as the average critic
  • 39% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 0.6 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 75
Highest review score: 100 Ori and the Blind Forest: Definitive Edition
Lowest review score: 10 Woodle Tree Adventures Deluxe
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 553 out of 947
  2. Mixed: 352 out of 947
  3. Negative: 42 out of 947
951 game reviews
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    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    KeyWe
    KeyWe successfully takes the fairly mundane environment of a telepost office and turns it into something fun and exciting. By injecting plenty of surprises, silliness and satisfying puzzles KeyWe is a real joy through all three of its seasons just so long as you have a second kiwi by your side.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    No More Heroes III
    No More Heroes 3 is bloody, violent, crude, insane and even confusing at moments and it’s an experience I found myself having a great time with right up to closing credits. Performance issues can’t weigh down what is a truly exciting rollercoaster ride of a game and arguably Travis Touchdown’s best outing to date.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fuga: Melodies of Steel
    Fuga: Melodies of Steel quickly became one of my favorite hidden gems of the year. Few things taint an overall excellent RPG experience. It was one of those rare games that was so engaging that it actually made me not want to play it, just because I know I’d be spending hours hooked to the wonderfully exhausting gameplay loop. That sounds like a negative, but if you’re used to this genre you’d know that’s extremely high praise. The music, visuals, and gameplay all come together for a package that’s hard to put down. Fuga: Melodies of Steel is the kind of risk we should praise in this industry, and if you like RPGs that aren’t afraid to make bold design choices it deserves to be in your library.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    art of rally
    At its heart, art of rally is a solid racing experience with a good assortment of cars to try, tracks to tackle and handling that’s both challenging yet satisfying. Unfortunately, the visuals struggle massively on Nintendo Switch resulting in a game that looks fine at best and barren at worst. This is easily the weakest version of the game and if you own an Xbox Series or PC you’re better off going for those superior versions.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    NEO: The World Ends With You
    It’s endlessly charming, has an in-depth combat system that feels great to learn, and constantly goes above and beyond what the original did. I am praying that it sees the success it deserves, because this wonderful world can’t end here.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles
    Like with all of the best gaming experiences, I ended my time with The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles feeling satisfied… yet painfully empty. Games this special don’t come out often. I was sad to see it eventually end, yet honored to be a part of the adventure.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX
    In an age where there’s an abundance of polished 2D indie platformers, Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX may not reach the same impact that the original once did. Nonetheless, this game is an adoring love letter by a team who undoubtedly shared a similar nostalgic childhood memory that I will always personally share and cherish. While a fancy lick of paint and some quality of life features will unlikely ever quite capture the magic that once made the original experience so special, Jankenteam has done its absolute best to beautifully repaint a classic that deserves to be remembered and retold.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game
    Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game falls short of SEGA’s plumber and hedgehog-starring effort, but still houses a decent number of surprisingly meaty and fun arcade-y events. With both a meaningful single-player option and four-player local missing in action though, your interest in the game may be over before the global event has even reached its end.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
    The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD stands as the definitive way to experience the origins of the Master Sword. To this day, there’s still nothing else quite like it – from the strategic swordplay to Nintendo’s unrelentingly inventive puzzle design – and while it excels in its playful experimentation, the game represents a stepping stone to where the series would lead in the future as much as it delivers an origin story that allows you to discover the secrets of the past. Ultimately, it is still a memorable quest worth setting out on, and one that is now more resplendent than ever before.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Legend of Mana Remastered
    Out of all the Mana games I’ve played this is easily the best one. There are so many reasons to revisit it thanks to how open progression is. Your natural curiosity is rewarded around every turn, and your choices actually shape the world. I can see how my playthrough could differ greatly to that of someone else’s, and I’m excited to continue to revisit it throughout the years. I hope this is the template Square is basing their next console Mana game on, because this is truly something special. Even if it isn’t though, I’m happy enough that the bar for remastering sprite-based games has been raised once again.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods Part One
    Whether you’re planning on grabbing the Year One Season Pass, DOOM Eternal Deluxe Edition or purchasing both halves of the downloadable content individually, The Ancient Gods – Part One is a worthwhile half a dozen or so hours investment. It may at first set the initial impression to expect more of the same. However, the ever-interesting level design wrapping around some very clever and incredibly testing gunplay scenarios consistently deters it from rarely ever feeling that way.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 + 2
    Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 was practically a perfect game when it launched, and here we’ve got a port that gets everything that worked about it and makes it portable – with only a few small concessions. If you’ve played it before, it’s absolutely worth being able to play it wherever you go, and if you haven’t given them a chance until now then the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic platform to do so.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Destroy All Humans!
    Still, even though I arguably enjoyed my time with this version a little less, it’s still a great port of a great game that more people need to play. If you can play it in a slightly more stable format then I’d still recommend that, but if you can’t or fancy pretending to be an alien wherever you are, then this is a great way to play.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mario Golf: Super Rush
    Reflecting on my time with Mario Golf: Super Rush it’s hard not to draw comparisons with 2018’s Mario Tennis Aces. Just like that game, the story mode once again lacks punch leaving little (outside online) to keep lone players occupied. That being said, new modes Speed Golf and Battle Golf are fantastic additions and the mechanics at play continue the series trend of offering an accessible and highly satisfying golfing experience. Get some friends together and Mario Golf: Super Rush is a hole in one.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Saviors of Sapphire Wings & Stranger of Sword City Revisited
    Despite how generic Saviors of Sapphire Wings felt, it’s a mostly solid DRPG. I wouldn’t recommend either of these for a newcomer, mainly because Saviors of Sapphire Wings is largely uninspired and Stranger of Sword City Revisited can be extremely challenging. However, for people who already enjoy what these types of games have to offer, Stranger of Sword City Revisited is a must-play. The striking art style, unique setting, and plenty of depth in its core mechanics will keep people coming back for more. The ports are good, and you’ll be sure to have a fun time with at least one of these if you’re a fan of the genre. The package is a little lacking, and there are much better DRPGs, but it is worth playing all the same.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection
    The Ninja Gaiden: Master Collection definitely proves that there is still a place in the modern-day for Ryu Hayabusa. Just don’t go expecting a Halo: The Master Chief Collection-style package full of version comparisons and celebrations of Team Ninja’s mascot. Just think of it more like a scattered Super Mario 3D All-Stars type deal with far less effort involved.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Game Builder Garage
    Game Builder Garage is an excellent introduction to the world of game programming. While it might not be the most comprehensive example out there, it’s certainly the most accessible and charming one I’ve had the joys of experiencing.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid - Super Edition
    Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid – Super Edition is far more fun and interesting than it has any right to be. To see a game evolve from something that has the potential to be half decent into a genuine contender makes it seem so much more accomplished than any world-famous studio currently pumping millions of dollars into a landmark title. Whether you are a fan of the series, have a general interest in fighting games or are an all-out combo fiend, Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid – Super Edition is well worth the investment.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    The Game of Life 2
    The Game of Life 2 is a fairly faithful adaption of the original board game – complete with a few minor tweaks – and is an okay distraction for a few rounds. However, minimal variety, content and a general lacking feel of excitement leave The Game of Life 2 far behind other board game offerings on Nintendo Switch right now.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Shin Megami Tensei III: Nocturne HD Remaster
    This is probably the best way to get into the series, and is great for fans of the original to re-experience this classic as we approach the release of Shin Megami Tensei V. I’ve been waiting for years for the next mainline entry, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m primed and ready now ATLUS, show me what you got.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Famicom Detective Club: The Girl Who Stands Behind
    Famicom Detective Club is not terribly complicated by modern standards. The games show their ages in spots, and can be frustrating to figure out, but this is absolutely the kind of murder mystery stories I’ve been looking for. The true strength of these remakes is how they made me feel nostalgic for an era of video games I wasn’t even alive during. They recapture the feeling of classic ADV titles while modernizing just enough of the experience to keep the games accessible. The mysteries offered are both fresh, yet comfortably late ’80s. Bigger budgeted “Visual Novels” are always welcome, and a push for them to be played worldwide is even better. I think Famicom Detective Club: The Girl Who Stands Behind is the stronger of the two, but this is a great package all the same. If you’re fine with some tedium here and there, this is a glowing recommendation from me.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Famicom Detective Club: The Missing Heir
    Famicom Detective Club is not terribly complicated by modern standards. The games show their ages in spots, and can be frustrating to figure out, but this is absolutely the kind of murder mystery stories I’ve been looking for. The true strength of these remakes is how they made me feel nostalgic for an era of video games I wasn’t even alive during. They recapture the feeling of classic ADV titles while modernizing just enough of the experience to keep the games accessible. The mysteries offered are both fresh, yet comfortably late ’80s. Bigger budgeted “Visual Novels” are always welcome, and a push for them to be played worldwide is even better. I think Famicom Detective Club: The Girl Who Stands Behind is the stronger of the two, but this is a great package all the same. If you’re fine with some tedium here and there, this is a glowing recommendation from me.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    New Pokemon Snap
    If all you’re looking to do in New Pokémon Snap is take pictures of your favourite Pokémon, then you’re going to have a great time because that is literally what it’s all about, and that’s what it does best. There are moments of genuine Pokémon magic here in an absolutely beautiful game clearly made for the fans, but just be prepared to grind.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy
    Atelier Ryza 2: Lost Legends & the Secret Fairy is like eating a veggie chip: while you love the concept of vegetables in chip form as a picky eater, as you proceed to enjoy it you begin to remember that the chips still contain them, and as a result you’re left with a weird aftertaste. By all means, Atelier Ryza 2 is superior to the first game in almost every sense of the term except story (and that’s being a bit generous), but I never got used to continuously feeling like I’m drifting off-course despite progressing. Regardless, Atelier Ryza 2 is an example of a sequel done right, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Gust goes with the series in the future.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Picross S 6
    Picross S6 is another reliable entry in the series delivering hundreds of puzzles across a familiar range of modes. Solving Picross continues to be as addicting as it’s always been, however, it’s hard not to feel a little disappointed at another entry that does little to surprise or refresh the series.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Skate City
    It almost feels unfair to poke away a game that’s all about being chill and just having a good time. I definitely had a fair amount of fun in Skate City, but it never really felt substantial enough to really get stuck in. On a phone, I could definitely see the appeal of jumping into the game whilst sitting on a bus and trying to nail a challenge, but on the Nintendo Switch, I don’t think it fits as well. If you’re looking for a chill skating game with simple mechanics, this might be for you, but if you’re looking for depth and a longer shelf life then I’d wait for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Star Wars: Republic Commando
    I walked away from Star Wars: Republic Commando glad that I had played it, but wishing that I’d done so on another console. This Nintendo Switch port simply doesn’t feel finished, which is a big shame considering how well Aspyr has done on pretty much every other Star Wars port. If you’re willing to look past that then there’s a fun, if dated, game here that shows a side of Star Wars that’s rarely focused on in games.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fez
    As someone who has played an unhealthy amount of games over the years, it’s rare to find a game like a FEZ that not only implements an ambitious structure of gameplay that should, by rights, turn players off unless they have a smarty pants master’s degree, to still providing a memorable gameplay experience based solely around its face-value mechanics. Pretty environments, fantastic sound, well-written dialogue and tight gameplay mechanics are often ten-a-penny these days. Despite pushing 10 years old, FEZ not only maintains these values in spades, but it also manages to do so by staying utterly unique without the fear of not being understood.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Pac-Man 99
    PAC-MAN 99 is yet another decent battle royale distraction that suffers from the same terrible level of guidance and explanation both Super Mario Bros. 35 and Tetris 99 were guilty of too. While it’s unlikely to become my next big time sink, it might perhaps kill five minutes or so between bigger games every now and again.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Root Film
    Root Film is the kind of game you recommend to a friend who is wanting to get into visual novels. It was hard not to compare it to its peers, but I think some of that is a bit fair. It felt like an earnest attempt at a love letter to a subgenre of visual novels. The attempt was surely appreciated, and makes it impossible for me to dislike the game in its entirety. On its own, I feel the game is just short of greatness, but that in no way makes it bad or even mediocre. The presentation and characters carry the experience, and the game made me laugh out loud more times than I could count. I wish there could have been some more complexity in the game’s writing, but so often do visual novel writers fail when it comes to penning good dialogue for the characters. I’d be more than interested in checking out a third possible game in this series if we’re lucky enough to see one.
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