RPG Fan's Scores

  • Games
For 2,282 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 70% higher than the average critic
  • 8% same as the average critic
  • 22% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 5.2 points higher than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 80
Highest review score: 100 Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Lowest review score: 25 Arcania: The Complete Tale
Score distribution:
2296 game reviews
    • tbd Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Truthfully, there aren’t many faults in Titan Station. It has a story it wants to tell and does so clearly and concisely. I locked myself out of the game at a certain point, having to restart everything, but that was due to player error rather than anything else. The issue I experienced has since been found by the developer and the game updated so it shouldn’t even happen anymore. Hint, though: always keep to the maintenance tunnels once the game tells you! Titan Station is a shorter title with a satisfying narrative that doesn’t cause frustration as you progress. It’s a solid game, made all the more impressive considering that a one-person team developed it. Fans of this type of graphic adventure should give Titan Station an earnest look since it’s a thoroughly enjoyable exploration of the genre.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    While the additions to Ys Memoire: The Oath in Felghana are slight, they make this already excellent action RPG marginally more enticing. For those who have played previous versions, I wouldn’t say the changes make this edition essential beyond the convenience of being available on modern platforms. But for everyone else, Oath in Felghana is a classic that deserves to be played, and it’s now more accessible than ever. So, take a pointer from Adol and go have yourself an adventure!
    • 82 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog is a very entertaining, casual-paced visual novel based on a beloved video game franchise. I enjoyed my time playing it, and I’m impressed by the level of detail and care put into a free title. The Murder of Sonic the Hedgehog is one April Fools’ Day joke that’s so much better than one initially expects it to be, and a part of me hopes there might be more games of this ilk in Sonic the Hedgehog’s future.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars - Director's Cut for the DS is a worthwhile purchase for graphic adventure fans.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Even though this is not the definitive strategy RPG of our time, like some have labeled games such as Shining Force, Final Fantasy Tactics, or Disgaea, it's pretty damn close.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    The issues the characters face outside the supernatural horrors bearing down upon them are the most relatable we’ve seen in the series yet. Teens struggle against their own troublesome pasts, adults are desperate not to repeat their worst mistakes, and authority figures with their authority breaking down as they’re drawn into intense, personal problems. Those are the moments that stand out long after playing, far more so than any crazy time portal or ghostly possession. OXENFREE II tells an extremely human story, and it tells it very well. If you have any interest in games as a vehicle for storytelling, OXENFREE II offers something you shouldn’t miss.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Overboard! is simply an incredible puzzle-box of a game. The ship’s small size and the limited timeframe for events hide tremendous content and depth. Uncovering all the secrets of the passengers for your own ends will require careful observation, repetition, and smart choices. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, you stumble upon another possible way to get away with the crime. Your first few runs are likely to be fruitless, but the writing is at such a high level that even failure leaves you entertained. Set sail with Overboard! It’s a murderously good time!
    • 89 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    BioWare has created a top-shelf RPG with Mass Effect, though it's not without its flaws. Many of the issues present in the Xbox 360 version of the title are gone, and while there are new issues thrown into the PC version, they are minor in comparison.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    The Silver Case's uncanny brand of Erotic Grotesque Nonsense absolutely isn't for everyone, but those willing to penetrate its deliberately obtuse shell will find a deeply thoughtful mystery.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Fans of the first will feel right at home on the shores of The Mermaid's Curse as it cements the Paranormasight formula.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Sequels typically either make only slight improvements or worsen the series, but Atlus went the extra mile to make a major overhaul, and ultimately succeeded on improving the series.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    But I can say with confidence that Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen is a must-own for nearly all JRPG fans.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Biomutant certainly took a while to get out of the gate as far as its development went. While it can still be rough around the edges at times, overall, it’s clear that a lot of heart and effort went into the project. I never knew I needed Kung-Fu Panda to be tossed into a post-apocalyptic setting with mutants as a video game experience, but I’m thrilled someone saw that need and ran with it! The game wears its Kung-Fu inspirations on its sleeve, but with a fun and innovative element of quirky creativeness that had me just enjoying my time with it. I was smiling so much by the ending, and I can’t ask for more from my games. Biomutant’s “unusual story with an unusual end” made for quite an unexpected and memorable journey indeed.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes comes highly recommended, whether or not you've played any other games in the M&M franchise. This is not a bastardization of the series. If anything, Clash of Heroes may become the catalyst to resurrect a franchise that was once on its last legs.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    This game brings both style and content to the table. It doesn't pretend to be anything greater than it is: it's a very straightforward Strategy RPG.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    To say that Recettear came out of nowhere and completely blindsided me, in a good way, is an understatement, and others who've played the game feel the same as I do.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Trails in the Sky is not a game in which the gameplay shines, but rather the story and characters. It isn't deep nor compelling by any stretch of the imagination, but it is fun and extremely charming.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    It is abundantly clear that the creative team behind Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands are massive RPG fans who have crafted a joyous blend of Borderlands mayhem with RPG epic-ness. I loved the story, characters, gameplay, and production values of this game. I should also mention that while I primarily played this game single-player, multiplayer co-op is supported because looter-shooters and tabletop RPGs are more fun with friends. First-person shooter games are not my preferred genre, but after playing Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, I would be game to try out a mainline Borderlands game and Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep. For making me a new fan of something outside my wheelhouse, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands wholeheartedly earns a spot as one of my favorite games of 2022.
    • 96 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    The latest Elder Scrolls has such confidence in the allure of its open-world structure that it shirks the need to compete. And, it largely succeeds in being better than the sum of its parts.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    The premise may be simple, but the plot is surprisingly good, especially for a Mario game. Part of it is thanks to the excellent localization and likeable characters.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Lies of P certainly evokes the likenesses of the game we all know it is trying to emulate — that’s right, Nightmare Creatures 2 (j/k, it’s Dark Souls). However, it is polarizing to me; it marks a step backward in several ways from the design of its inspiration. However, it also offers a few alternative modes of stepping forward from those designs, such as robust weapon adjustments, streamlined cosmetic options, and a fun new skill tree in Quartz upgrades. It also offers a more obvious central story, one that does a good job of recognizing its ancestry while gracefully appropriating it for the present cultural moment. It is just a bummer that, from a gameplay standpoint, Lies of P fails to remember where it came from.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    If the writing in this episode is any indication of what's to come, they will have another hit alongside their previous masterpieces.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Part 4 dismantles the player's reliance on rewinding and introduces a debatably better mechanic in its place. Without the revive feature, it would be difficult to complete the game by simply selective rewinding, and I'm glad they decided against it. With so many more creative puzzles and tricky events to resolve, Sorcery! Part 4 definitely provides a resounding finale to the series.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    All of this said, is this a $60 experience? I loved it. I intend to come back to it. But I also got this game for free for review, and that matters. I might have felt burned at a $60 price point because it is pretty short if you only have one go at it, and movie tickets aren’t $60 here in the US (not yet, anyway). If someone isn’t as into the game as me, that’s going to feel like a high entry price. That said, this is a phenomenal-looking game with fantastic acting. If price is no object, then I definitely recommend The Quarry, as it’s worth the ten hours of your life, but for those who have to make discerning decisions with their wallets, maybe wait until this one’s on sale.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Minor gripes aside, Crown Trick surpassed my expectations and taught me much about what two of my favorite genres can achieve. Though the game is undoubtedly derivative of Hades and other recent roguelites, it establishes a character, charm, and gameplay style all its own that are genuinely standout. Its combat and progression systems are among the deepest and most satisfying I’ve encountered all year, and its turn-based mechanics instill its gameplay with a thoughtfulness I wish other roguelites would emulate. For delivering dozens of hours of the most engaging dungeon-crawling you may find this year, this game truly earns its crown.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    All-in-all, though, Phoenix Wright ends up winning my heart with its charm and overall presentation. The characters are certainly lovable and the stories are far from boring.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Virgo is a great game, plain and simple. While every aspect of the game is worthy of praise, the ace in the hole is easily its sound. Any game where the music makes me immediately drop my controller, grab my bass guitar, and play along to learn my favorite pieces is something special. Delightfully, it marches to the beat of its own drummer and I loved every second of the 14 or so hours I spent with it. If you are into unique turn-based JRPG style games with twitch elements to keep battles interesting, you simply must play Virgo Versus the Zodiac.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    An excellent addition to the Souls series and a huge improvement on Dark Souls II.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    UNSIGHTED deserves recognition and exposure not only for the crisp design, beautiful world, hypnotic tunes, and abundant secrets, but for the unique concepts it introduces to great effect, namely the NPC death timers. The stakes in games often lie in winning or losing a fight and having to expend more personal time on a fight that bruised our egos. Here, we have the added layer of humble automaton friends’ lives hanging by a thread. Even though I found several secrets throughout my initial trek, I am absolutely certain more can be uncovered; I just might take a rare plunge into New Game+.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    While Rune Factory Frontier is not without its flaws, it's definitely a solid step in the right direction for the series.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    I loved Wanderstop in a way that I honestly wasn’t anticipating. I mean, I was sure I’d enjoy the story, music, and writing given the pedigree of Ivy Road’s founders. Yet, I was taken aback by how much I, a management sim skeptic, enjoyed the gardening and tea-brewing gameplay loop. Good thing too, since it’s most of what Wanderstop offers. Well, that and the aforementioned fantastic story, characters, and mature writing that is at times as genuinely laugh-out-loud funny as it is emotionally rich. Let’s also not fail to mention yet another wonderful, moving soundtrack by master composer C418.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    I’ve often marveled at an idea as familiar as “books transport you to other worlds” transforming into narrative game experiences where you rarely encounter another soul, but a rich tapestry of actions, consequences, and interactions unfolds through your exploration. Yet, Riven has always accomplished this. I’ve been fortunate to replay most of the series with a newcomer, and that sense of wonder absolutely survives as the games age; this new version is worthwhile and definitely the most beautiful way to experience it.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Despite (or because of) Attentat 1942's short duration, there's nary a slow moment. A small thread quickly expands to a tapestry of narratives that weaves around the protagonist's grandfather. For those who love exploring history or simply resolving an investigation, Attentat 1942 provides a fascinating intersection between history and gameplay. Given that there's still plenty of room for more games like this to emerge, I look forward to seeing what else the Czech Academy of Sciences concocts in the future.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Overall, Battlefield Waltz is a delightful visual novel to immerse yourself in, especially if you’re looking for character-driven romantic fantasies. It doesn’t do anything inherently wrong, save for having a far too-lengthy common route. The robust story map makes for easier replayability, which is fantastic since one route’s progression might make you want to see how another route will affect characters differently. Battlefield Waltz is an otome that fans of the genre should appreciate we finally have localized.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Cold Steel II is staunchly traditional in most ways but also exceptionally attentive to all of the details that make classic, story-driven RPGs so wonderful when they're done right.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    If you don't enjoy experimental games or those that refuse to handhold, or if you simply have no interest in the tabletop roots of RPGs, forget about it. Crimson Shroud's unique concept and esoteric execution make it a perfect match for my RPG desires, however, and one of my favorites of 2012.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    A challenging yet accessible dungeon crawler that rewards thoughtful party construction and thorough exploration.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Dragon Age II is streamlined, not simplified. It's a great game within its own rights, but issues with the overall story, repetitive environments, and control scheme keep it from being truly fantastic.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Dragon Age II is streamlined, not simplified. It's a great game within its own rights, but issues with the overall story, repetitive environments, and control scheme keep it from being truly fantastic.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Working Designs did an excellent job of localizing the game, not only providing a quality translation, good voice acting, and an informative full color manual, but also adding new options like the ability to mute out individual characters’ battle cries if they get too annoying and the ability to use the L & R buttons as shortcut keys in battle for quicker gameplay.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Yet another charming, low-stress Atelier title that provides a good respite from the melodrama of its RPG peers.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Cupid Parasite is a lengthy game with a decent-sized common route and suitor-specific routes that tend to be just as long. Given that there are five suitors initially and a secret character route once you’ve completed the others, along with the various alternate outcomes you can uncover, there is quite a lot of replayabilty to be had here! The sheer amount of energy in the story, combined with a likable cast of characters and well-written developing romances, makes this a rom-com worth perusing if that happens to be your thing. If nothing else, Cupid Parasite certainly knows how to entertain its target audience!
    • tbd Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    There’s really not much to fault in Ballads at Midnight. It’s a well-polished, complete VN experience from beginning to end. I suppose it would’ve been nice to have more artwork in general, but that is largely because the artwork itself is so fitting and expressive! Honestly? I’d be really nitpicking if I did go looking for a few flaws. This is a solid VN for fans of fantasy romance in particular. Other positives include that it doesn’t take an exceptionally long time to play through and offers a surprising amount of content for the right price (since it is free!). Truthfully, I’m very much impressed by this outing from Synstoria. If this is the level of quality they can produce in a month, I’m very eager to see what their larger upcoming VN Imperial Grace will be like! Ballads at Midnight is the type of song I could pleasantly listen to on repeat time and time again.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    With a fresh combat system and a lovable cast, Final Fantasy XV excels at its goal of being a title for both fans and newcomers alike.

    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    If you've never played it before, you've been missing out on a game that combines addictive, deep gameplay with a good plot and a great sense of humor.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Rest assured, fans of the series will love Episode 4 and the constant punishment Telltale doles out to Clem. However, work still needs to be done if those who tell tales want to close the curtains with the same grandeur of Season 1.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    An excellent follow-up to 2014's The Stick of Truth, but with some positive gameplay changes and less consistent storytelling.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Just like in 2005, Kingdom Hearts manages to cut through our malaise and deliver a shot of unfiltered joy. It reminds us of the importance of our shared humanity. So while Kingdom Hearts III is a far cry from a perfect experience, it's a wild ride into familiar worlds that is well worth the trip for veterans and newcomers alike.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Chernobylite is a solid game with a thoughtful story, enjoyable characters, memorable scares, and amazing design. You have freedom in the directions you want to go with crafting and leveling up, and the narrative choices you make feel meaningful. The game keeps you constantly engaged, as it always feels like there’s an important mission to complete or something to take care of around the base. The mystery is fascinating all the way to the end, and the main narrative doesn’t overstay its welcome, feeling spot on at a tight 20-ish hours. If you’ve ever wanted to tour the Chernobyl area but were afraid of the radiation, here’s your ticket to some of the sites, with some monsters tossed in to keep things lively (or deadly). So what are you afraid of?
    • 74 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Given all of that, if you enjoy point & click adventures, it's easy for me to suggest that you'd like this game. If you are also the type of person who watches shows like Castle or Rosemary & Thyme, "easy" changes to "no-brainer." The only thing about it that I don't like is that the other two chapters haven't already been released.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Etrian Odyssey meets Persona in a not-quite-the-sum-of-its-parts game.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Octopath Traveler is unapologetically old-school, and would not have been out of place if it had released back in the golden age of JRPGs.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Golf Story is well worth the addition to every Switch owner's library. Its zany cast, easy-to-grasp gameplay, and wonderful art design make for an incredibly rewarding experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Planet Stronghold 2 is a nuanced, well-crafted sci-fi RPG/visual novel hybrid that offers a lot of choice and replayability.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! is capable of eliciting strong feelings. It is not always an enjoyable experience, but it is just that: an experience. When I encounter any work that transcends its medium like this, I take special note of it. I am grateful (for lack of a better word) that Doki Doki Literature Club Plus! came my way, and I strongly encourage fellow visual novel aficionados to join the literature club too.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    This remake of Trials of Mana is wonderful, with its expanded storytelling, exciting combat, and loving recreation of all the game's artistic elements. The bits of added content are worthwhile diversions, offering more of a good thing. It harkens back to the halcyon days of spring break sleepovers playing at all hours of the night with your friends. Though it's not without flaws, you'll find plenty of joy in swapping stories about your party and how you crafted it. It's been a long time since I've had so much fun with a game, one that filled me with such warmth and joy consistently. It truly feels like the Mana series is back and ready to capture our hearts and imaginations once more.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Dreamscaper has been in early access for about a year, and based on my time with it, I can say that time was well spent by Afterburner. They’ve created a well-balanced and engaging roguelike Action RPG that perfectly pairs with its social simulator mechanics. I continued to play long after I conquered Cassidy’s dreams and enjoyed every run, whether it was all the way to the end of the game or stupidly dying in the first level. This is a super impressive debut for the studio, and I hope that Afterburner is already working on its follow-up title! If Dreamscaper is any indication, we will be in for some sweet dreams ahead!
    • 68 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    It is absolutely, positively worth your attention if you are in any way an "RPG Fan." At least rent or borrow it. Give it a try, and see if you are capable of falling for this one like I did.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Like its prequel, the game does not even try to convince the player it would be anything else but a classic, heavily story-driven RPG with a traditional turn-based battle engine. The visuals are currently among the best in the genre and at least the songs composed by Yuki Kajiura are solid.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    In the end, The Crystal Bearers manages to be a somewhat simple but entertaining adventure, but one that is polished and put together with care, for the sole purpose of entertaining the player.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    It is absolutely, positively worth your attention if you are in any way an "RPG Fan." At least rent or borrow it. Give it a try, and see if you are capable of falling for this one like I did.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Quartet not only excels with its fantastic ensemble cast, eclectic music, colorful visuals, engaging gameplay, and engrossing story, but its intangible “x factor” made my twenty-eight-hour or so jaunt a special experience. I would love to see character-centric post-ending DLC in the future, because Quartet’s cast is too cool not to revisit. I have nothing negative to say about Quartet beyond its lack of an auto-save. If this review does not put Quartet on RPG fans’ radars, then perhaps the notion of adventuring with Juna—a sage, sassy, and supportive talking hippo—will.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Afternoon of Darkness features a fast startup time, even faster game loading times, and almost unbelievably fast level loading times (under 2 seconds), all of which just add to the many reasons why this port is a great fit for the PSP.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Aurion: Legacy of the Kori-Odan is an incredible game in several respects. It is ambitious in scope and succeeds for the most part with just a few hiccups here and there. The gameplay is polished, both the graphics and musical score are stunning, and the story is thought-provoking. You can easily tell the developers are video game fans and that they put a lot of care and heart into the title. That is a legacy I sincerely hope carries on.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    A story every Playstation owner should experience.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Mario & Luigi: Bowser's Inside Story is just as good as it was in 2009. It's still side-splittingly funny, clever, and genuinely a joy to play. Bowser Jr.'s Journey is a major slog, but that doesn't diminish my overall enjoyment one bit. If you're looking for a fun, active RPG that will keep a smile on your face throughout hours of playtime, look no further than Bowser's Inside Story (or honestly, any of the games in the Mario & Luigi series)!
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    It’s quite an entertaining and satisfying rhythm, and of course, it’s up to you to establish your own priorities during the school year. No matter how you choose, and whether you play on Switch or PC, Hero-U: Rogue to Redemption worth the price of tuition. Well, not Shaun’s non-existent tuition, but worth the cost of the game on either platform.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Marvel Ultimate Alliance is the result of two games' worth of experience on Raven Software's part, and it shows.
    • 89 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Even though it's not without its issues, Horizon is an excellent title and a must have for all PS4 owners. It offers a refreshing open world environment, a compelling and mysterious story, a fantastic main character, and innovative gameplay. Not only is it one of the best action RPGs I've played in a while, it's also one of the best games I've played in a while. Even now, after the credits have rolled, I'm still having a great time trying to fully complete the game. Horizon is a truly special experience, and it's one that even non-RPG lovers need to have.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Tales of the Abyss is a completely straight port to the 3DS, with limited 3D included in a haphazard manner and no additions to the base game. However, when the base game is one of the best the series has to offer minus the technical problems that bogged it down during its initial release, it's hard to make too many complaints.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    A worthy contender to Diablo and Torchlight as the premium hack 'n' slash experience.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    I could not have dreamed of a game like Dragon's Crown in my younger years, mostly because it could not have existed on anything but modern hardware. It's a little odd that the game hides its best features under an inconspicuous, slow-paced introductory period, but everything beyond the first few hours is excellent.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    A classic adventure story built on a solid table-top RPG framework.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    I love this series, and even if they developed a Layton title comprised entirely of sliding block puzzles, I would still play. Such thoughtlessness is only fantasy, of course, because Level-5 pours their heart into this series. Regardless of how much heart they muster, however, the Layton formula just doesn't have infinite vitality, and with The Last Specter, a bit of wear is finally starting to show.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Overall, Sympathy Kiss is an enjoyable otome experience targeting a demographic not often focused on when it comes to video games: adult women immersed in the workforce. Despite having issues with one story route being potentially triggering, I truly enjoyed the rest of the time I spent playing this game. The other character routes have lovely development! Those looking for a game to provide them with their slice-of-life romance fix should give Sympathy Kiss a chance!
    • 90 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    While I by no means think Slay the Princess is for everyone—this is a distinctly indie game—the thoughtful, curious, and those hungry for an imaginative experience will be more than satisfied with what it has to offer. With some tweaks, improvements, or inclusion of quality-of-life features, Slay the Princess rises to the ranks of legendary indie status. As for me, I am going to keep my eye on Black Tabby Games, because it has another game in the works (Scarlet Hollow) that could be just as good, if not better than what’s been gifted to us here.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    From the excellent storyline, to the addicting gameplay, everything in Final Fantasy IV Advance is just as good as it was in the early '90s, despite minor changes and a few lag issues.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    If you've played Trails FC, there's a good chance you're already waist-deep in SC, and so my review isn't going to sway you one way or another. For those who haven't yet taken the plunge, I cannot stress enough that SC is a direct sequel that takes place immediately following the ending of the first game, so I recommend beating FC first.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Morteshka’s deal with the devil has paid off, as Black Book delivers a captivating story and engaging gameplay full of strategy and variety that should keep you busy for over 40 hours. Being in league with Satan usually comes with a great price, but players should be able to overcome any curses handed down to them. With strong character development and narrative, this wicked book is a page-turner that’s worth a read.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    One of the most cognitive, strategic gaming experiences available now.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    As a follow-up to Monster Hunter: Generations and a precursor to Monster Hunter: World, Monster Hunter Stories keeps the essence of Monster Hunter‘s older style while also forging ahead, mainly in streamlining inventory management and revamping something as fundamental as travel. Ironically, the only way MHS falters is by, much like Monster Hunter, producing a game that’s all about its dynamic gameplay, deviating from the pack with fantastic combat that’s turn-based but failing to do so with a meaningful story. Still, if Monster Hunter Stories was overshadowed by Monster Hunter because of its parent’s reputation and its deviation from the well-established series, then it’s deserving of a second life. In this JRPG resurgence, it’s a reminder that there’s still plenty of room to reinvent the classic style. Ride on!
    • 71 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Harmony is a thought-provoking, emotional VN. The amount of artistic polish alone is impressive, and using the Augural to plot your branching decisions is intriguing, even if it isn’t without some flaws. Fans of the genre should give this one a chance, as I think DON’T NOD more or less reached their storytelling aspirations with Harmony: The Fall of Reverie. I’m already thinking of my next playthrough, which says a lot about how much I enjoyed my experience with Harmony!
    • 75 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    There's a fine line between "challenging" and "cheap," and there are some occasions where I feel Baten Kaitos Origins crosses that line.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Bugs aside, I had a killer time with 2064. Although series like Phoenix Wright and Danganronpa have successfully reinvented the Japanese-style adventure game for the 21st century, there's a certain allure to the mysterious world of menu-driven microcomputer adventures of decades past. 2064 not only successfully simulates that feeling, it welcomes players of all backgrounds and orientations with open arms. 2064's future is one that belongs to all of us.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    As it stands, I had a blast stepping into the role of the Hunter and getting to hang out and battle with a colorful assortment of Marvel heroes in a supernatural-tinged adventure. I’m already eagerly awaiting the future DLC for Marvel’s Midnight Suns. Sometimes, you do draw a winning hand.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Obsidian’s medieval murder mystery Pentiment is a small but incredibly dense narrative with little gameplay but heaps of some of the most exquisitely crafted dialogue in all of gaming. It’s more captivating than it is exciting, and it may appeal more to readers rather than gamers. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with it and already know its writing will stick with me far longer than most bigger, more technically impressive games.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Another compelling visual novel from MoaCube.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    In short, Borderlands is a top-quality shooter and grind-fest.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    All in all, Super Mario RPG is a great remake that nearly perfectly replicates the experience of playing the SNES original. From the story and the world to the battles and music, the game will make you feel like a kid again. I do wish the combat was a little harder, and some players may be a tad disappointed by the lack of meaningful new content, but the game is so charming and fun that it’s easy to overlook issues like this and have a good time with it. After almost three decades, we finally have a modern version of the game that introduced many players to RPGs, and with luck it may introduce many more to come.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    If you enjoy visual novels, then I can highly recommend Code: Realize. There's a delightful cast of characters to meet, an interesting story to experience and beautiful visuals to take in. The plot rushes over details that could use better explanation, but there are plenty of twists and turns to keep things interesting. The dialogue is well written and I enjoyed my time with it from beginning to end. Even if you normally shy away from an otome game, do yourself a favour and pick this one up.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Overall, I’m glad that I decided to give Death’s Gambit: Afterlife a try. I’d most certainly recommend it to those who’ve already tried the initial game just to see the extensive overhaul it received. The level of challenge here is extremely high, but the sense of accomplishment from playing the game and overcoming it is real.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Though Castlevania: Symphony of the Night was the first entry to truly embrace 2D exploration and non-linear progression, it was in these three GBA titles that the “-vania” was permanently affixed to the “Metroid.” Individually, they are fantastic games, and together, they offer an irresistible package to fans of the series and genre. Our reviewers very much enjoyed each game in the collection, and we highly recommend it to those looking for engaging, challenging, and expertly crafted Metroidvania games!
    • 79 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    I loved every second I spent with this game and am grateful that the opportunity to play it presented itself. Whenever I was at work, all I could think about was coming home to play it. I even contemplated burning a sick day or two so I could stay home and play it all day. Despite its flaws, Super Robot Wars 30 most certainly cast the spell on me that it’s been casting on fans for the past 30 years, and I look forward to 30 more.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Judgment is a successful spinoff from the Yakuza series that simply demands a follow-up. If Yakuza: Like a Dragon is pulling the main series towards turn-based combat, then Judgment would be an excellent place to continue exploring its real-time brawler roots. If you’re looking for a next-gen title that will deliver much more than just pretty visuals, it’s well worth a purchase on the PS5! If, however, you already own the title on the PS4, your money is likely better spent on other games (You HAVE played Yakuza: Like a Dragon, right?)
    • 81 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    If you loved Dragonfall, you're going to really like Hong Kong.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    All of the additions to the "Advance" port of Final Fantasy V are worthwhile, but it is a shame that the new jobs and bonus dungeon are only available right at the end of the game.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    One of the most engaging and original adventure games released in years. You owe it to yourself to give it a play.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    A unique and aesthetically appealing work of art.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Mystery fans and visual novel fans alike would be remiss not to check out this brilliant revival of a classic title, but they must be prepared with an extra set of thinking caps that otherwise shouldn’t be necessary.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    I liked the game, and I think it's worth a look, but it may not be for everyone. Try the demo for yourself and see if it's right for you.

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