Nintendo Life's Scores

  • Games
For 5,856 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 45% higher than the average critic
  • 18% same as the average critic
  • 37% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 8 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 67
Highest review score: 100 Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story
Lowest review score: 10 153 Hand Video Poker
Score distribution:
5864 game reviews
    • 63 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Wonderfully weird, colourfully cool, and just plain fun, Radiohammer is an excellent addition to the 3DS' impressive rhythm game lineup.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Your definition of fun may vary, and Just Dance: Disney Party 2 definitely delivers to some degree; it just might not necessarily be the form of dancing fun you're looking for.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    All in all, Mojang has done a wonderful job of porting the full Minecraft experience over to the Wii U.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The currency system may get a little aggravating, but as a silly diversion Jones on Fire is well worth consideration.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're willing to educate yourself in this dialect of BASIC then you just might find yourself pulling off some stellar coding feats. Or, if you don't want to put in the time, you can still check out the cool stuff that others create. Either way, you're sure to be impressed.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    In a lot of ways it fails to do anything incredibly interesting, with the repetitive actions of fetch quests being one of its biggest offenders, and gameplay can become dull as it takes the most drab parts of RPGs and fits them in.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    SteamWorld Heist is an entirely different proposition to its predecessor, and that's no bad thing. Its quirky blend of a 2D perspective, allied with turn-based strategy and skill-based attacks, is a surprisingly addictive combination.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    If you're hankering for a semi-educational game to play with your kids Word Party is an adequate choice, but otherwise there are far better Wii U 'party' games to play.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you love racing games - and maybe even if you don't but are willing to try - be sure to pick this up. We don't think you'll be disappointed.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    A conspicuous lack of multiplayer and a few presentation issues put some slack in the line, but if you're an avid angler looking to reel in something different, Family Fishing is a catch.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Overall, Johnny's Payday Panic is a fantastic collection of minigames that makes great use of the 3DS hardware. It's a nice looking package with a sense of humour that plays well, but the limited number of available activities will definitely be a turnoff for some. If you're looking for something lighthearted to play in short but energetic bursts, this collection of touch-based minigames is sure to get the job done.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a game that you can play casually without paying, look elsewhere. If you're willing to pay up, this is the best entry in the Picross e sub-series yet.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Christmas Adventure of Rocket Penguin is a nice burst of holiday cheer, at a budget price, on the Wii U. With solid gameplay and polished art assets, it's definitely a fun game. However the extreme shortness of it, coupled with the fact that there is very little variety between game modes and level layouts, makes it hard for us to give a strong recommendation.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    With Cutie Pets Jump Rope, the series seems to be cementing itself as offering small, simple experiences in adorably quirky packaging. What Jump Rope does, while very limited, it does well; it's just not going to entertain for any great length of time.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Occasional bottlenecks are infrequent and easily overcome in the broader experience, and overall Xenoblade Chronicles X delivers a hugely impressive RPG adventure. It's an enormous accomplishment for Monolith Soft and an irresistible part of the Wii U library.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    In the end it's Paper Jam's simplicity that makes it a great starting point and an easy recommendation, but also holds it back from taking full advantage of more dimensions than ever before.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Still, if you can endure its quirks Dementium Remastered is a strong horror shooter on the system, with fun combat and a tense atmosphere combining well.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    We'd recommend this to those of you who don't mind a lot of grinding in RPGs, as there's plenty to enjoy here if you can push on through the copious amounts of padding. If that doesn't sound up your alley it may be best to pass and wait for the next Pokémon game.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    But if you love RPGs for the sense of exploration, engaging battle mechanics, and overall atmosphere, you're in for a real treat; The Legend of Legacy plays to these strengths and delivers a lovingly crafted adventure with a gorgeous graphical style and an outstanding soundtrack, easily earning its place in the 3DS' pantheon of portable RPG gems.
    • 46 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    For the money you ultimately get two figurines, three cards and a game package with snippets of fun and charm - it's ultimately up to you whether that's worthy of your cash.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Not even the feel good act of saving puppies can rescue this game, and it doesn't help that the little pups aren't even endearing.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Lucentek feels like an unfinished project and we can't recommend it on any level.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Excellent, enjoyable gameplay clashes with a shoddy and lazy set of features. It's up to you whether that's worth your money.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Still, as a game for younger crowds it's a fun and welcome option to further embrace the world of Peanuts.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Typoman fashions a marvelous world full of wordy wonder, and those who feel it would be up their alley should definitely give the game a try based on that alone. However, the smudges that can come in the platforming, combined with the roller coaster difficulty, may very likely frustrate some when they find themselves caught in a death loop.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Definitely one to try out if it intrigues you, but not one to set the world alight.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    The Wii U might not have a proper Brain Age title, but Test Your Mind probably won't scratch that itch.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Girls Like Robots constantly delights with its endless variety, upbeat music and cute characters.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Cool, confident, and charming, New Style Boutique 2 is a knockout. If you're at all into fashion, this is a must-play, and even if you're not it's well worth dropping in to check out everything Beaumonde City has to offer - this is a deep, engaging sim with the looks, brains and fun to entertain just about anyone.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    With a bit more thought and attention Bike Rider could have been a considerably more fun and engaging 2D Mario Kart-esque addition to the Wii U library. Instead, it's an amalgamation of tired and recycled ideas that, when combined, results in a middle-of-the-road albeit well-produced racing game outside of its natural portable home. Here's to what could have been.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    A fitting swan song for imageepoch and another gem in the 3DS' legendary RPG lineup, Stella Glow is smart, stylish, and seriously satisfying.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    This is definitely a game that you should play if you're attracted to the concept, but there are caveats to bear in mind before hunting down spirits on your 3DS.
    • 45 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    When it comes to unique gameplay and classic Yuji Naka charm the title truly soars. Unfortunately it also suffers from frustrating camera problems, a steep learning curve and some frequently aggravating combat.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It may not have ground-breaking graphics or a heart-string tugging storyline, but that doesn't matter. It achieves its purpose extremely well, allowing people to spend a night in together and have a great time.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's a lovely version of an enjoyable puzzle game, and courtesy of its budget price should be considered by Toki Tori veterans and newcomers alike.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    As a game, Octodad seems less interested in entertaining and is more intent on taking the player through a journey, and by its own design can be an incredibly stressful affair.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Electronic Super Joy isn't a game for everyone, far from it. It's extremely difficult, prompting this reviewer to swear more than in recent memory and battle with the urge to fling the controller across the room in a rage. Yet it's brilliant and addictive, with a unique blend of visual trickery and clever design - along with a pumping soundtrack - to keep us coming back.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Wicked Monsters Blast! HD PLUS is a title that attempts to create a funny, charming, competitive party atmosphere with a collection of varying mini-games. In reality it doesn't quite manage to be funny, charming or that competitive, and will leave most players craving something else that does it better.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It doesn't reinvent the board game it's inspired by, but it does streamline it quite well.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Human Resource Machine is a good game, bordering on great. It's just missing a few little tweaks.
    • 46 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    This is a game only young players will likely enjoy on the whole, while others will be left scratching their heads as to how a show with so much personality churned out such a dull game.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Unfortunately, Ascent of Kings can at times feel sparse, and it doesn't exactly scream replayability; that's an issue for a game that can be completed so quickly.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    We advise you not to buy this game, simply because there are far better ways to spend both your time and your money.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It may not be a particularly meaty title but it's a fun diversion, even if it's not exceptional in the broader context of the eShop library.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    When you're not getting annoyed at being unable to find the final item in a given area, Slender: The Arrival is an excellent horror game that will leave your pulse racing.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    The Magic Hammer is the sort of game a child may have fun with for a couple of hours of distraction.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fans of Adventure Time or point-and-click style adventures can expect an easy, approachable game about 10 hours in length regardless of which system they choose.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Break out the leather vest and fingerless gloves, Guitar Hero is back.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    While it might prove too basic for more advanced players, younger players and families should have a fun time questing with dog and human. Big fans of the show, of course, should not feel so afraid to give this one a try, either.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Cutie Pets Pick Berries will not cure your fever for muscular wildlife, but it will give players a fun little diversion for a little while and some fun Miiverse stamps to use.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Overall we do recommend VoxelMaker; despite its lack of interactivity, it features a diverse set of tools that will bring creative gamers virtually endless entertainment.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Tri Force Heroes isn't a bad game, but it's not on the same level as its illustrious predecessors.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    On paper a ninja-themed endless runner that allows you to cut through your enemies and use ninjutsu sounds like lots of fun. Sadly the strange animation, a lack of backgrounds, options and variation in characters mars these ideas. In the face of this as well as some technical issues, Ninja Strike: Dangerous Dash is a title we can't recommend.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Project Zero: Maiden of Black Water has been put through a wringer of doubt and speculation in the run up to its release, but manages to come out the other side still just as drenched with atmosphere and intrigue as ever.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Momonga Pinball Adventures is ultimately a fun experience. It escapes falling into the trap of being 'just another pinball game' by adding different challenges and exploration, rather than sticking to the restrictions of a table.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    What lies in this shallow grave may still be enjoyable, but let's hope a second effort comes that digs deeper.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    LEGO Dimensions is well worth consideration for those happy to invest in a new toys-to-life platform. The core content of the Starter Pack gives you plenty to do, though tolerance is required for occasionally overbearing in-game promotion of expensive add-ons.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Overall, Pumped BMX+ is an impressive bicycle motocross game with interesting physics, impressive real-life tricks, and a challenge system that will keep you coming back for more. Not only does it play well, but visually it has lots of polish and works well both on the TV and on the GamePad.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    No online modes and a lacklustre character roster are a punch to the gut of Dragon Ball Z: Extreme Butoden, but the day is saved by an accessible and fast paced combat system that houses an enjoyable amount of depth.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The gameplay is okay, but ultimately it's the beautiful animation that's ultimately memorable - it's certainly not for everyone, but you could also do a lot worse on the eShop.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    With its simple game design and incredible attention to detail Toto Temple Deluxe is a goat ride you won't want to miss.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Overall, Gemology is a mental exercise that's challenging without razzle dazzling the other senses, making it a semi-precious, average gem of a game.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Simply put, this is Sonic at his very best and a platforming masterclass.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    It's hard to call Perpetual Blast a game. It feels a more like a technical demo than a finished product.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Race the Sun is a futile flight against a falling sun, but with all of its little extras, different tracks and a sense of speed you can almost feel, it's flight we willingly keep taking on.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The whole package is undoubtedly polished and pleasing, and if you're looking for a solid platformer that zigs where a Mario may zag then this is a safe bet for an enjoyable time. But for all the charm and smooth polish, there's little texture here to make the game stand out from others in this genre.
    • 40 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Chronus Arc is competent RPG that fails to deliver on one of the most important aspects of the genre: the story.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    This isn't just another update to the Skylanders series, it's the moment the game properly comes of age both from the perspective of top notch gameplay as well as offering families exactly what they want in terms of value.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Credit needs to be given to Hold Your Fire for having the notion to take on trigger-happy shooter tropes, but the overall execution of the idea just makes it feel adrift.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you enjoy platformers but never got into Sonic games, give this one a shot – you might find yourself pleasantly surprised.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Rivers of Alice: Extended Version is an absolute treat for the senses.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    A small, barebones game that quickly loses its audience due to a lack of engagement and repetitive actions.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Overall, Nova-111 is a lot of fun for its smart mix of familiar gameplay elements. Discovering the weirdness of space has never been cooler.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Despite EnjoyUp's efforts to improve and refine the experience, Rock 'N Racing Off Road DX just doesn't do enough differently or better to warrant a purchase.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    It will provide a little entertainment to anyone who picks it up, but hitting zombies with your giant, indistinct leprechaun hat will likely wear thin before long.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    All in all, Starwhal is an excellent couch multiplayer game that'll doubtless be a house favourite in many establishments.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    While Disney could have rested on the knowledge that this year's brands would sell themselves, it's good to see that it's taken the game forward in substantial ways.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fans of New Leaf - and the series in general - may well be prepared to forgive such sins, but for everyone else this is a likeable but largely forgettable title that will entice young, undemanding players but will be too dull and samey for everyone else - despite the unmistakable charm which permeates the entire package.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's a must-have title for Wii U indie supporters and fans of split-screen multiplayer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    There are few, if any, redeeming qualities to Explody Bomb and we'd strongly recommend that you skip over this one.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Those who've played the game already may find little reason to pick up another version, but anyone who's missed out so far has little excuse not to dive in now.
    • 48 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you go into it expecting some platforming action and a storyline you're going to be disappointed. However, if you go into it with an open mind, full of imagination, you'll find a world where you can write the story for yourself and try to discover the meaning of the events in your thoughts.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Although it's bundled as the funky wonders of science, there's nothing quite wondrous about it and will leave you in a funk.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Don't waste your hard earned money on this budget title when there are better games out there. Brave Tank Hero for the Wii U makes the 3DS version look like a decent game. Unfortunately, it's a disappointing port of a mediocre game.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's hugely clever, chaotic and funny, though there are downsides in the implementation of randomly generated stages and in some technical glitches and flaws. Despite some issues the premise, presentation, music and gameplay all work well together, making this a steal on the Wii U - just not the great heist it could have been.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    An array of different weapons to play with, zombies to fight off and locations to survive in will satisfy both the casual gamer wanting some fun and the high-score hunters who won't stop until they have total domination.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It distills the most complex elements of sim-style racers down into a simple, enjoyable formula that works on every level.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    As a complete package, Project Mirai DX puts on a virtuoso performance that easily stands alongside Curtain Call, HarmoKnight, and Rhythm Thief as one of the 3DS' greatest hits.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Forgettable music, poor animation and a lack of replay value combine to make this one of the worst games available on Wii U. Stay away. Far away.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you can look past this cube's jagged edges, then its well worth a look for the sheer variety of gameplay alone.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    The user interface, the creativity of the tools that feed the player's imagination and the overall polish are a testament to the development team's efforts. Whether creating, exploring or just playing, Super Mario Maker provides an exceptional experience.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    All in all, Gunman Clive HD Collection is an absolute no-brainer. For $4, you are getting HD versions of not one, but two of the most impeccably-crafted action platformers of the last decade.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Devil's Third is tricky to recommend, ultimately. There's undoubted fun to be had online, but at the same time this is an action game that sells Wii U gamers short. It's packed with good intentions and ambition, but Valhalla Game Studios was unable to execute its vision well enough. The devil is in the detail, and that's the problem.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth is one of the most addictive roguelikes we've ever played. It's the kind of game that might appear a bit rudimentary at first, but it becomes more and more compelling with each subsequent session.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    A game that features tanks should be an entertaining experience, especially if the game was developed by a team who has delivered series like BlazBlue and Guilty Gear, but ultimately Brave Tank Hero is a blemish in Arc System Works' library.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    SENRAN KAGURA 2: Deep Crimson is a reasonably solid fighting game with some decent presentation and consistent performance in 2D, but is hampered by repetitive enemies and uninspired combat mechanics for the most part.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you're absolutely starved for something to do on your Wii U, Pixel Slime U offers a few minutes of diversion, but it's unfortunately too bare bones to garner a full recommendation.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    G.G Series VECTOR is unfortunately just another "me too" block puzzler that you'll likely grow bored with after a few extended plays. The basic gameplay is sabotaged by being a little bit too complex and the presentation is nothing more than passable.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Overall, G.G Series ENERGY CHAIN is a fun time-sink for those looking for a cheap puzzle game to play.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Overall, there's very little fun to be had and Mortar Melon feels like an unrewarding, fruitless exercise.

Top Trailers