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.

A classic adventure story built on a solid table-top RPG framework.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

One of the most cognitive, strategic gaming experiences available now.

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!

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!

There's a fine line between "challenging" and "cheap," and there are some occasions where I feel Baten Kaitos Origins crosses that line.

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.

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.

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.

Another compelling visual novel from MoaCube.

In short, Borderlands is a top-quality shooter and grind-fest.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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?)

If you loved Dragonfall, you're going to really like Hong Kong.

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.

One of the most engaging and original adventure games released in years. You owe it to yourself to give it a play.

A unique and aesthetically appealing work of art.

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.