Nintendo Life's Scores

  • Games
For 5,854 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:
5862 game reviews
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    While not as feature-rich as some collections, Suikoden I & II HD Remaster: Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars proves that these RPGs have largely stood the test of time. While the issues with this remaster don’t take away too much from the original games' brilliance, we think these classics deserve the very best. Boasting ambition, narrative stakes, and heart that few other RPGs of the time can muster, Suikoden burns bright in its origins, and we hope Konami sees just how important this series is to many and makes a handful of tweaks.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    While we wait for the final episodes of Deltarune to come out hopefully sometime before the end of this century, Everhood 2 acts as a fitting substitute for those looking for a subversive and strange RPG that defies conventions. Its distinct mixture of comedic storytelling, unique aesthetics, and rhythm-based combat gameplay all make this one easy to recommend, even if it can feel a little shallow in places. We’d suggest you add Everhood 2 to your library at some point; the experience is certainly well worth it, although it’s best approached with an open mind.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Omega 6: The Triangle Stars is a small game from a big talent. It’s a bit too simplistic at times, lacking any taxing challenges beyond having enough credits and finding the right screen at the right time. However, the comedy is light, the action is breezy, and the combat system is deliberately accessible. Old fashioned but frequently nodding to newer genre entries, it's a well-designed passion project from an industry legend.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    The Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection stays true to its sources and brings a little piece of history into the modern age. Unfortunately, dull mechanics and often unwieldy UI plague many of the games in the collection just as they did on first release, although amidst 14 titles, it would be impossible not to have a couple of winners. For us, Monster Capsule and the two World Championship Tournament titles shone through beautifully. Although the included games are certainly imperfect, we recognise the intentionality behind the collection’s curation and feel that it’s an excellent time capsule of the origins of the iconic Yu-Gi-Oh! Series.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    There’s an outstanding game in Sid Meier’s Civilization VII just waiting to burst free, but it’s trapped under a wet, slimy coating of bugs and a mostly-finished interface. What we have on Switch is a phenomenal game that could be one of the absolute finest in its genre, a true monolith of game design and a delight for all fans of turn-based shenanigans, but its laundry list of launch-day bugs and issues pulls it from the peak it could have reached. It’s great as it stands, but with more development time could have been utterly seminal.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered is an odd release in that only one of its three games can be considered a genuine classic. Yet despite this, it's still a collection we'd tentatively recommend checking out if only to appreciate how such an iconic video game series was almost completely derailed. The remastered visual upgrades – particularly in the fourth and fifth entries – don't always work, but the addition of 60fps performance alongside the retro aesthetics is very welcome indeed. If you're a fan of Tomb Raider or enjoy revisiting flawed curios from days gone by, this might be worth looking into, but this isn't essential like Aspyr's previous Tomb Raider collection.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Warriors: Abyss is a decent low-budget spinoff in the long-running hack ‘n’ slash series, but isn't particularly inspiring. There’s tons of replayability, loads of unlockables, and a thrilling combat system that help to keep this one interesting for a while, but its paper-thin plot, repetitive gameplay, and poor visuals very much hold it back from being anything exceptional. We’d give this one a modest recommendation to fans of either roguelites, Musou games, or both, but with the caveat that you may want to wait to pick this one up on a deep sale sometime later on.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Afterlove EP definitely fits with the cosy set: slow tempo, heartwarming narrative, and sad story (yes). The themes of grief, mental health and their impacts on our lives are explored in a way that feels gentle, much like Fahmi’s earlier releases. There were a few wrinkles as things unfolded, and the dating sim aspect was unexpected, but still there’s easygoing fun to be had. If you’re looking for a light touch on serious issues, this one could be worth a play, and a replay. If you want a heavy-hitting game to wreck you emotionally, you might want to hit ‘skip’.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Trails Through Daybreak II doesn’t feel nearly as refreshing as its predecessor, but it’s still a solid entry in the long-running series that ticks the necessary boxes (legible text aside). Though its story isn’t all that exceptional, the combat is as rewarding as ever and new gameplay features like the Marchen Garten help to make this feel distinct and worthwhile. And while we wouldn’t necessarily suggest that this is a great starting point for newcomers, series fans will find lots to love here, even if it won’t be topping many lists as a series favourite.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Turbo Overkill is one of our favourite boomer shooters, modern or otherwise. Johnny Turbo's chainsaw-sliding, wall-running and grappling combine with slo-mo silliness to provide a whole lot of punchy murderizing that's a joy to get down and dirty with. Paradise is a glorious playground, a combat puzzle box packed full of amazingly explodey mutants, and the whole thing looks and sounds fantastic in both docked and handheld. If it wasn't for that 30fps cap and a current lack of gyro support, we'd call this the best boomer shooter on Switch so fast you'd think we'd just activated our very own version of Turbo Time.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If we were to describe Momodora: Moonlit Farewell in one word, it would be “exquisite”. This isn’t a game that necessarily attempts to do anything new in what is undoubtedly a crowded genre, but everything it does, it does very well. It’s a slick experience with gorgeous visuals, engaging combat, and challenging, yet fair boss encounters. The soundtrack has also been noticeably improved over the previous game, making this a must-play for fans of the series and, indeed, Metroidvanias in general.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Where helicopter gunship-themed video games are concerned, Under Defeat is one of the best ever. It signifies a point in time when the shoot 'em up was being propelled by a new area of creativity, and young development studios like G.Rev were leading the charge. Love it or loathe it, its lock-shot strafe and creeping bullet patterns work terrifically once you get a feel for them, and there’s a cinematic scale to it all that feels somehow poignant. It’s not the longest game, nor the most visually diverse, but it does what it sets out to do exceptionally well.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    For all its sins, there’s the makings of a stealth-tactics classic in The Stone of Madness. Its grisly sensibility, rock-hard difficulty, and inconvenient bugs at launch mean it’s not a game for the weak-hearted, but 20+ hours with its rich, system-driven drama produced many delightful escapades worth admiring - even if a good number ended with us back in our cell miserably plotting our next attempt.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Now that the Switch version Laika: Aged Through Blood has finally arrived, it can finally join Hollow Knight, Animal Well, and Blasphemous II as a true modern classic in the Metroidvania genre. The premise and gameplay are like no other, seamlessly combining motocross gameplay with badass bullet-time shootouts that constantly feels satisfying. Chuck in one of the best soundtracks we've heard in years and maybe iron out the remaining performance hiccups, and Laika could well be an early contender for Switch GOTY 2025.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Citizen Sleeper 2 is an excellent example of a polished sequel, continuing all the things that made its predecessor a beloved indie darling while building upon and expanding those systems with some new and interesting ideas of its own. The decision-driven narrative, tense RPG systems, and incredible soundtrack all come together to make for a game that is almost impossible to put down once you get pulled in. Newcomers who want to see what all the fuss is about will enjoy this as much as players who loved the first game - Citizen Sleeper 2 stands tall as a worthy follow-up.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Hello Kitty Island Adventure proves an innovative entry into the social sim genre. While borrowing from multiple powerhouse games, it brings a fresh experience that is likely to subvert the expectations of any Animal Crossing expats looking for their next cosy fix.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Ender Magnolia is an excellent Metroidvania that exemplifies the best of what the genre has to offer. Its combination of tense combat, interesting worldbuilding, and memorable art style makes for a compelling experience that we’d highly suggest to anybody drawn to games such as Hollow Knight or Blasphemous. It's downbeat, but anyone who isn’t yet exhausted by Metroidvanias will find a lot to love here.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tales of Graces F Remaster occasionally feels dated thanks to its visuals and limited map, but the unique structure of the plot and fun combat make it a worthwhile addition to the library of any JRPG fan. The characters remain the stars of the show, with more growth and change over the course of the game than we expected. If the frequent but short load times don’t get in your way, it is easy to sink dozens of hours into this adventure.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Strive is a bold step in a new direction for the Guilty Gear series. Its visual creativity and attention to detail without fault, Arc System Works has again gone above and beyond in its graphical evolution. True, there are some background clashes, but when all is said and done, it’s dazzling. With all DLC characters unlocked, there’s a lifetime of learning here, as well as tons of modes and bonuses to pore through. While Strive is perhaps only the first step for Guilty Gear’s new evolutionary arc, and its sequels will no doubt improve certain aspects and find a way to better appease fans new and old, it remains undeniably solid. The most impressive aspect, though, is the strength of the port here, crafted with a kind of magic to perform near enough 1:1 with its multi-platform counterparts. And the soundtrack? Whether it's your heaven or hell, it most certainly rocks.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you enjoyed the original, then Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winters offers up more of the same brutal combat and stunning visuals, introducing minor yet welcome new additions like the whetstone and the grappling hook. Its basic environment layout can lead to a lot of excessive backtracking, which is a shame, but the world itself is so well-realised that we find ourselves compelled to recommend you check it out regardless. Just be warned; it's not for the faint of heart.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you've already picked up some of these, then you might want to think twice before double-dipping, but if you've held off, Taito Milestones 3 represents superb value for money, especially when you take into account the cost of picking up each game on its own.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    For those who enjoyed the original release back around the turn of the millennium, Star Wars: Episode I - Jedi Power Battles is just about the safest remaster you could imagine. The instant level unlocks and expanded character roster are both nice touches, but Aspyr's limited improvements leave this feeling very of its time. If you can get past the sluggish combat, painful platforming, and performance 'quirks', then this is a fun trip down memory lane; if you can't, then prepare for a lesson in what games felt like a long time ago.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Blade Chimera is an ode to a very specific kind of Metroidvania — the sort that eschews cryptic puzzles and an open-ended structure and revels in the simple joys of ultra-fluid movement and blasting through enemies with an ever-growing arsenal of powerful weapons and equipment. It may not particularly impress with its explorative or narrative aspects, but its striking, stylish identity and endlessly entertaining shoot-and-slash combat loop elevate this to the heights of the classics it’s so clearly inspired by.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a fine way to play the 2010 original, but it’s also lacking any real reason for fans to double-dip beyond waggle-free controls. It’s less of a remaster and more of a port, to be honest, which would be all well and good if it wasn’t being sold at such a premium. There's plenty of fun to be had, but we can't help but walk away from it with a slightly sour taste in our mouths. Our advice? Grab the superior Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze instead.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Freedom Wars Remastered is a welcome addition to the Switch that revives one of the PS Vita's most unique and enjoyable games. Its core gameplay is challenging and satisfying in equal measure, with plenty of customisable options and upgrades to keep you hooked. Sadly, the story often gets in the way of the fun, especially near the beginning, while performance upgrades on the Switch are kept to a minimum - understandable to an extent, but a shame nevertheless. Still, for both new and returning players, Freedom Wars Remastered is worth checking out if you enjoy battling giant monsters.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana is hardly a revolutionary RPG, but it stands as an excellent reminder that sometimes less is more. The brisk pacing, thrilling combat, and cutesy visuals all come together in a wonderfully enjoyable and simple action RPG. This is an experience that makes no compromises and holds nothing back, and even if it’s clearly less ambitious and expansive than many of the later entries in the series, there’s also something very satisfying about playing through a game where its reach did not exceed its grasp.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Lollipop Chainsaw RePop's zombie-killing mayhem is just as childish, stupid and fun as it was in 2012. This remaster brings with it a streamlined experience and decent visual polish. Unfortunately, RePop suffers from poor optimisation, lapsed musical licenses and an extra mode that brings nothing new to the table. If you can, seek out the original.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Perhaps all the timed daily tasks and events made more sense in a mobile context, and it's possible they could hook you here if you have endless patience and affection for these crews. For dedicated Trekkies content to multitask with their Switch on their lap, Star Trek: Legends may well deliver compulsive delights - the audio-visual feedback as the numbers go up is satisfying, as is the thrill of pulling an Epic or Legendary character. Ultimately, though, while collecting your favourite crewmembers sounds like a fun mission, the bland battles involved — and the chronic load times between them — aren't enough to make this a worthwhile journey. Legends isn't terrible, but it is just your favourite Star Trek characters phasering each other until one of them disintegrates.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    While a fine-looking affair, DoDonPachi SaiDaiOuJou’s anime stylings are frankly unremarkable, and the incessant chatter will be turned off by many. But these are minor, skin-deep critiques of what is an incredible piece of work by the masters of the Danmaku: a series finale that showboats and regularly boils over in endless hails of gunfire, tugging you to and fro amid the heart of the storm as you forge a path to victory. There’s a beauty here that only Cave could achieve; a harmony of scoring and surviving; coasting on sheer adrenaline as you thread hit-boxes through pixels, hammering out routes amidst dizzyingly spectacular orchestrated chaos. It may not be easy, but oh is it worth it.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Antonblast is a great tribute to Nintendo’s Wario Land series with its madcap action and focus on gameplay variety. The cartoonish visuals, high replayability, and overall spectacle of the experience make this one well worth a recommendation, though we’d temper this by saying that it really needs some work on its Switch performance. Whether on Switch or elsewhere, we’d suggest you pick this one up if you’re at all a fan of Nintendo’s other Italian mascot and are looking for a well-made and fast-paced new 2D platformer—Antonblast has got it where it counts and is well-deserving of a spot in your library.

Top Trailers