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
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For fans of Angry Birds who are looking for a change of pace, or anyone who is craving a bit of relaxing fun, this castle is definitely worth crushing.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    For those that purchased Inazuma Eleven 3 last year, there's little reason to buy this; there's too much overlap and a lack of any real progression. Level-5 keeps piling on more of the same content, when creativity is required.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    In the end, Percy’s Predicament feels like an unfinished build of a game that could’ve released for PC back in the late 90’s.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    If you've decided that your game is only going to do one thing, you need to make sure that it does that one thing well. For ARC STYLE: Solitaire, doing that one thing well just wasn't in the cards.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If you can look past the blatant consumerism and potentially damaging image-crafting effect that the classic line of dolls has on children, Barbie Dreamhouse Party has a lot going for it when scrutinized with an eye for metaphor.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Stay away from LEGO Friends.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    While it's not all bad — there's nothing "broken" and younger players will enjoy dressing up their hamsters and collecting new cages — the experience is simply too thin to justify its price tag.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    This is a good game that has been ported sloppily, but is a tempting option for those that absolutely must have a new kart racing fix and can't wait for Mario Kart 8 to arrive on the grid.
    • 49 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you’re still interested after reading through our criticisms, there’s likely enough here to justify a purchase; otherwise, you’re probably best off leaving this photo undeveloped.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    For fans of the franchise or younger gamers looking for a few hours of high quality — albeit simplistic — fun, it's certainly worth some consideration.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    There are no two ways about it: Hot Wheels: World’s Best Driver is not good.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    With much to explore and so many ways of storming the castle’s inhabitants, Unepic is a fun and well-designed challenge for those who enjoy platformers and yon hefty olde RPG feel. Its tight and rewarding core makes it a quest that can be enjoyed along with, or even in spite of, its cheekier sense of humour.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    It's obvious that Frozen: Olaf's Quest is aimed towards younger gamers, and it's a decent level entry into the world of platformers. For some it might feel quite short and limited, but collecting each and every treasure will take some time, therefore extending gameplay.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It’s difficult to determine whether this game was made for superhero fans or to those who already enjoy the game series, but Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure finds a good balance that should appeal to both crowds.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    World Party is well worth a try for anyone looking to add a fun dose of fitness to their Wii U routine.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you like strategy, tower defence, or even physics-based puzzlers and action games, CastleStorm is highly recommended.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 10 Critic Score
    This is just a bad, bad game that nobody should go near ever.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    It's a simple, clear experience with strong gameplay that reminds us why we love the Mario Bros. in the first place.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Knytt Underground is without a doubt the most unique game on the Wii U eShop.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're at all a Wipeout junkie, then by all means take the plunge - you'll have a blast with Create & Crash.
    • 48 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Cubit the Hardcore Platformer Robot is an honestly titled game that delivers a charming and fun, albeit frustratingly difficult, experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    As a 3DS eShop game EDGE is certainly worth a strong recommendation, with plenty of content and simple but addictive challenge being well suited to short pick-up-and-play sessions.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Girls' Fashion Shoot is an easy game to follow, there's something there for young girls to get creative and try out new styles, giving them a small taste of the fashion world at an early age.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    SpongeBob and company may prevail in the end, but Plankton's already had his true revenge: an uninspired, repetitive game that does nothing with the boundlessly bonkers potential of its legendary license.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Angry Birds Star Wars isn’t a bad game. While it does suffer from a few issues here and there, it’s an enjoyable experience overall.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you haven’t played a game in the Arkham series yet, you’d be better off starting with the superior Arkham City; diehard fans are sure to get some surface-level enjoyment out of Batman’s latest outing, but disappointment is sure to set in when examined too closely.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Fans of the original should still get significant mileage out of Bird Mania Christmas thanks to the online leaderboards and tweaks to the obstacles you'll face, and those who never purchased the original have no reason not to get this instead.
    • 56 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Long load times, ugly cinematics, and finicky touch controls aside, the fun mission structure and engaging gameplay makes this one worth picking up for anyone seeking big fun in small bursts.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Easy to learn but challenging enough to keep you invested, Banana Bliss is a fun puzzler that just about keeps on the right side of simplistic. A lack of visual polish and a dire need for some variation between worlds holds it back from being a real hidden gem, but the fantastic price tag makes this one a solid recommendation.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    It seems like those who would be most willing to keep up with the dragging tasks of Life with Horses 3D are the big-time equine fans. However, these same fans would also be most disappointed in how lifeless the world can be and how impersonal treatment of and interaction with the horses can feel.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The experience may be geared at a younger audience, but puzzle fans will be delighted to solve each object and watch Orion's Odyssey unfold.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Its stripped-down simplicity and lack of goals make it appear suited toward a young audience looking for virtual dolls’ heads to mess around with, and there may be some fun for them in that for a while.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Jump Trials Supreme may not be much to look at, but don't let its generic aesthetic put you off - this is a fun and challenging eShop release that distills platforming down to its essence and serves it up in ten-second shots, with some commendable online extras on the side.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Batman: Arkham Origins Blackgate is a game that is brimming with great ideas that are, sadly, poorly executed.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    It would be simple to write off NES Remix as something only die-hard retro gamers would enjoy, but developer indies zero is really on to something here — the 200+ challenges are short enough to be interesting and fun to replay, but not long enough to outstay their welcome.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    RUSH is a more than welcome addition to the Wii U eShop, as it delivers straight-out puzzle challenges with few needless embellishments, all at a budget price.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Hooked on Bass Fishing has a certain charm to it, and it can be exciting to battle with and land a giant fish when it happens. But those flashes can ultimately carry a game so far when it doesn’t have much sense of an overarching goal, progress, or player direction.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Taking one of the most technically advanced coin-ops of its period and transferring it to Nintendo's handheld console — at 60 fps and in 3D, no less — is an achievement which warrants massive praise.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    A stale, shameless cash-in with no variety and frustrating gameplay throughout, hardcore fans of Ben 10 may find a slightly better experience on the 3DS version. All others, though, are advised to stay away from Ben 10 Omniverse 2.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    This is highly recommended for fans and those looking for an enjoyable slice of retro Sega platforming, nevertheless.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    M2 has done a typically peerless job of porting Altered Beast from the Mega Drive, and proves once again that it is the master of retro emulation. However, one has to question the wisdom of wasting so much time and effort on converting such a dismal game; Altered Beast fails to entertain during its criminally short length and really should have been relegated to the mists of time by now.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Those new to Heathcliff will likely find little here to draw them in and would probably better be served by a spot-the-difference game with wider-ranging images and themes.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    The horrid visuals, wonky controls and extraordinarily dull gameplay all ensure that it's as lacking in entertainment value as seems possible; stay off this one's track.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you’re looking for a fun way to unwind, relax, and have a laugh alone or with some friends, LEGO Marvel Super Heroes is exactly the game to fulfill that need. It’s pure family-friendly fun that squeezes in just enough variety to ensure that players of all ages will find something to enjoy. A heroic feat, indeed.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Namco Bandai has published a number of surprisingly solid titles tied to their Shōnen Jump properties in recent years, but they've indisputably missed the boat on making One Piece Romance Dawn anywhere close to worth playing.
    • 40 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Adventure Time: Explore the Dungeon Because I DON'T KNOW! is not a complete failure, but it's also not the game that Adventure Time fans deserve or should expect from a developer like WayForward.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's a short ride, sure, but one that's worth jumping into again and again.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    While Deer Drive Legends looks and works well enough, it's an entirely forgettable light gun shooter that does nothing to set itself apart from the rest.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Any 3DS owner with even a fleeting interest in role-playing games and a desire to get lost in an incredible, engaging adventure would be doing themselves a huge favour by picking up Bravely Default without delay.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Even the staunchest of Sega fans will admit that Space Harrier has never been the deepest of experiences, and this 3DS iteration does little to change that.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you're the kind of gamer who enjoys trial-and-error play and doesn't get easily frustrated by the "error" aspect, you could do a lot worse than giving Ohno Odyssey a spin.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It's a more than competent coaster builder, but Wii U owners who also possess an iOS device — a platform on which Coaster Crazy Deluxe is arguably more comfortable — would be crazy to purchase the game in this format.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Mysterious Cities of Gold: Secret Paths does not offer a great deal in terms of challenge or variety, but what it does provide comes in a beautiful package that is easy and intuitive to work with. It’s a viable, appealing option for younger and less experience players, and a practical no-brainer for long-time fans of the classic TV show. Those looking for something deeper may feel like they're heading down the wrong path with this title, but it's still worth investigating.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Hands On! Tangrams isn't very original or exciting, but the puzzles are fun to solve — if a little easy — and could easily give younger gamers a bit of a challenge
    • 62 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Senran Kagura certainly has its issues - an inconsistent framerate, repetitive missions, and a sketchy, ecchi aesthetic that's likely to turn off as many players as it turns on - but it delivers an intoxicating blend of quick, combo-heavy combat that's an absolute blast to play.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Ben 10 Omniverse 2 is a disappointing experience that is not worth playing unless you're a hardcore fan of the Cartoon Network franchise.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 10 Critic Score
    Christmas Wonderland 3 does offer a 3D effect — even if it isn't really put to any use — and an easier difficulty mode that its two predecessors did not, so if you absolutely must have a Christmas Wonderland game, this would be the one to buy. However that's as close to a recommendation as we would dare give this game.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Jett Rocket II: The Wrath of Taikai is a game that, for the most part, is fun to play and nice to look at. It tries to deliver a varied gameplay experience, and although it isn’t too hot when it comes to the 3D levels and shallow mini-games, it makes up for this with tightly crafted 2D levels that can be deviously challenging.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Those seeking a long-lasting single-player experience may want to steer clear though, as there isn't enough depth to the solo-focused modes to keep you engaged for very long.
    • 30 Metascore
    • 10 Critic Score
    Power Rangers Megaforce isn't just a bad game — though it most assuredly is a bad game — it's downright broken in places.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    As a simple gaming experience, EDGE comes close to providing the perfect budget download experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Doodle Jump Adventures would have arguably made more sense as an eShop download but it's still a respectable adaptation of the franchise, offering a decent amount of content, with addictive gameplay and charming presentation.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Secret Mysteries in New York is a bit difficult to recommend fully. While it definitely provides a narrative and atmosphere that far outsteps any other hidden object game you're likely to play, the unfortunate game design choices and unintentional comedy of somehow being in both New York and London at the same time does drag things down a bit.
    • 93 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Super Mario 3D World can be easily summarised — it’s a terrifically enjoyable, tight and impeccably structured experience. It recalls the mascot’s 3D heritage while providing the perfect starting point for those that prefer 2D platforming, catering to an audience of beginners and skilled veterans alike. Nintendo’s also mastered Mario multiplayer for, arguably, the first time; it’s still manic and can be either co-operative or competitive, but there’s also a sense of space that allows determined groups to progress coherently.
    • 48 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Regular Show: Mordecai & Rigby in 8-Bit Land is almost a decent enough game, but serious gameplay flaws keep it from reaching its potential.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    There are more fully-featured music suites out there, but the M01D's versatility and the quality of sounds on offer more than make up for the feature gap.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    The main issue with Word Wizard 3D is ultimately that none of the game modes are particularly special; these can all be found in one form or another elsewhere.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For a lengthy and well-crafted experience, 4 Elements is recommended; just be ready to do some pixel hunting in-between matching those jewels.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is an incredibly hard sell to anyone who isn’t heavily invested in the show already, but there’s probably just enough content in here to keep fans entertained for a few hours.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The campaign is a shallow Frankengame, hollow-hearted and unsure of its footing as it tries to keep up with Call of Duty's own self-escalation of incredulous scenarios, with ludicrously stupid set pieces and a story built around relationships that nobody will care about come the end of the credits.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    There is very little to recommend in Secret Agent Files: Miami. The poor story, unintuitive interface and atrocious presentation make for a thoroughly disappointing game that gamers will likely regret purchasing. There are plenty of quality adventure titles on the 3DS and DS; Secret Agent Files: Miami doesn't even come close.
    • 91 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Without a doubt, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is currently the greatest game you can experience on the 3DS.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Crazy Chicken: Director's Cut 3D is a relatively simple, short gallery shooter that, given the right gamer and attention-span, can offer a deal more.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Gamers looking to try something new may just find this gem will become their favourite book on the 3DS, but those looking for an adventure wherein they can make meaningful choices may find themselves disappointed in Hakuoki’s rigid structure.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Black Flag is at its best when it allows the player to exist organically in its immensely beautiful and consuming open world. While the bulk of the game is exceptionally crafted, there are rough edges that keep it from reaching the masterful heights to which it aspires.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    While the exercises it offers still aren't intensive enough to replace traditional exercise, it’s nevertheless an entertaining way for players of all fitness levels and ages to be more active and conscious of the importance of keeping fit.
    • 49 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    While it makes the most of the unique functionality that the 3DS has to offer, it’s woefully repetitive and quickly becomes a monotonous affair. Beyblade fans may find enjoyment in its accurate depiction of the franchise’s universe, but that doesn’t disguise the fact that this is a flawed title that is clearly lacking in entertainment value.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    It may be a two-year-old game, but whoever's idea it was to resurrect Deus Ex: Human Revolution for Wii U deserves a slap on the back and a raise of the glass. The original game may not have had the GamePad in mind at all when it was released in 2011, but this Director's Cut feels completely at home with it in 2013.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    But for anyone looking to play Angry Birds on their 3DS, there are retail versions that offer a much stronger experience. Steer clear of Angry Bunnies.
    • 55 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Mario and Sonic 2014 feels like a minor progression, and not the huge leap you might be expecting.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Skylanders: Swap Force for the 3DS is a game that was clearly made with the best of intentions, but it ended up being bogged down by hardware limitations and a shortfall in content.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If Professor Layton and the Azran Legacy really is the end of an era, it's a fitting sign-off. Hershel Layton and his companions have been wonderful additions to the DS and 3DS systems, bringing gracious simplicity and charm with each release.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Make no mistake, Brunch Panic is more whipped-cream waffle than hearty Full English. This is a mobile-inspired tap-and-swipe game with simple, repetitive gameplay and graphics, and it's not going to fill anyone up until dinner.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Wonderfully witty as ever, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney - Dual Destinies is another excellent entry into the Ace Attorney series.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Mighty Switch Force! series is on the cusp of true platforming greatness and we can't wait to see what those talented folks at WayForward will bring to the table next time around.
    • 65 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Many of the mini-games on offer really push the unique features of the system to create novel yet highly entertaining experiences that can't be found elsewhere.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Escape from Zombie City needs something to help it stand out from the brain-dead horde of eShop shooters, and depending on what you're looking for, it just might have it.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Like cotton candy, this sweet-natured treat is ultimately fluff. Kids may eat it up, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for them — or particularly enjoyable once something with a little more substance is introduced.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Snow Moto Racing 3D doesn't crash and burn, but it's no smooth ride, either.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Just Dance 2014 doesn't rock the boat too much, nor does it really need to — turns out that dancing is still pretty fun in and of itself, and the robust, aggressively contemporary set list, oodles of choreography and video sharing put this year's dance party among the better ones.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Whether you come for the adventure, the romance, or simply the turnips, Rune Factory 4's inviting world will draw you in and give you plenty of reasons to stick around for many, many seasons to come.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Skylanders: Swap Force is the rare type of game that takes all of the elements from previous series entries and improves on them at every turn. Veterans are bound to love this new title, but it also serves as a perfect place to start for those new to the series.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    In trying to incorporate 3D environments and ideas from the Wii U title, Dimps has rather tied Sonic's red boots together, causing him to often stumble and fall.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If dealing with frustration to reach high points is an acceptable sacrifice of your gaming time then this is worth strong consideration, but be under no illusions — this isn't the definitive Sonic experience we may have desired.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    Most importantly, it’s dreadfully repetitive and just isn’t much fun to play. While it may be an improvement over its predecessor, that isn't saying much, and you should probably just let it sink into the darkest corner of the 3DS eShop.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 30 Critic Score
    If there is one thing that’s been honestly advertised, it’s that The Ugly Duckling sure is ugly.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Steadfast fans of classic arcade titles might find some enjoyment in the traditional action, but the rest of the package is nothing but a disappointment.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Happy Circus does some things rather well, with care and attention clearly paid to its presentation and careful management of the learning curve at work. What it lacks is a fun hook, something to reward or encourage learning beyond its strong audio-visual delivery. This isn't a bad option for young gamers learning basic skills, by any means, but it's not everything it could have been.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you can spot the appeal in hidden-object spotting and like a bit of mystery in your looking glass, The Sleeping Palace is worth keeping an eye on.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Put simply, it’s Picross — and that’s tough to complain about.

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