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For 738 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 41% higher than the average critic
  • 8% same as the average critic
  • 51% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 0.5 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 74
Highest review score: 100 The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Lowest review score: 20 Best Friend Forever
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 397 out of 738
  2. Mixed: 312 out of 738
  3. Negative: 29 out of 738
743 game reviews
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    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest
    This is absolutely the better of the two retail Fire Emblem Fates releases, and while I could muse on the differences between this and Fire Emblem Awakening for an age, the verdict broadly pans out as Conquest being on balance is equal to Awakening. That's an achievement in itself - it was, after all, named our favorite RPG of 2013. Conquest lives up to that legacy where Birthright doesn't quite manage to.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Theatrhythm Final Bar Line
    I was always a fan of Theatrhythm, but returning to the franchise on the Switch I was struck by how little I could find to complain about this most recent release. As both a Square Enix fan, as well as a rhythm game junkie, it's hard to argue against the idea that this is almost a perfect game. While much of the experience of playing Theatrhythm obviously pulls on the nostalgia that players have for these games, it's far from a title that feels like it only exists solely for that nostalgia. When playing it the love and care that the developers have for the franchise and its history is infectious, and even in the short period I've had with the game thus far, I can already see myself returning to it again and again whenever the mood strikes me. Final Bar Line is a triumph in every sense of the word.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Mass Effect Legendary Edition
    Mass Effect Legendary Edition is sure to bring in both new and returning fans with its slick presentation and positive word-of-mouth about the series over the years since the original game's release. I enjoyed playing through the series again on more recent hardware, and not needing to hook up my Xbox 360 again. While the games haven't changed much from their initial releases, which can sometimes make the games feel dated, this is still an amazing collection of games to experience.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir
    With lessons learned from its original release along with the experience of other titles under Vanillaware’s belt, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir surpasses what I tend to expect from a remake these days. It expands, streamlines, and enhances almost every aspect of Odin Sphere with the utmost care without leaving behind individuals who loved the original experience. This is the best case of a video game remake done right.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
    Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is my favorite in the series, and yet I can't help but admit that I was a little disappointed that the vaunted extra story focus being a bit squandered in practice stings. For most fans or newcomers, I don't think this will be a dealbreaker - and it certainly wasn't for me - but it's a shame that what was already such a fantastic Monster-Battling RPG in terms of gameplay stumbles just enough to prevent it from reaching its full potential. They've perfected the gameplay loop, so hopefully next go around Monster Hunter Stories can finally live up to that moniker.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Monster Hunter: World - Iceborne
    Monster Hunter World's PC offering is in a much better place than it was initially, and even then it was never a slouch.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Tales of Arise
    Tales of Arise is an excellent introduction to the series for new players and a fantastic entry for old fans. If this is any indication, the franchise is in for a bright future. Hopefully, it won’t be another five years before the next one.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
    There’s also a lot to be said about how impressive it is to play such a sprawling and complex open-world game on what is essentially a portable device. This feels like the Switch’s swan song as Nintendo prepares to enter their next era. It’s hard to not wish there was just a bit more new content here, but in all fairness the base game is overflowing with things to do. Despite some gripes, Definitive Edition was a great way to play one of my new favorite open world games. I’m excited to dive in to clean my plate of all the remaining side content out there, and even play the multiplayer when it unlocks. There is truly no game like Xenoblade Chronicles X.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
    All of the adventure, the exciting battles, and nostalgia are here. The moments of frustration and triumph I yearn for every time I come back to this game are preserved. This is Dragon Quest III, plain and simple. It felt like coming home.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling
    Despite not expecting it at all going in, Bug Fables: The Everlasting Sapling might just be my favorite game that I've played so far this year. It's the proper template for a love-letter done right -- to not simply staple oneself to the blueprint of their inspiration and meekly play parakeet, but to establish a cohesive identity beyond that. So many parts of Bug Fables felt so wholly inspired and creative that calling it a clone of anything else feels like a disservice. I wouldn't just suggest Paper Mario fans give Bug Fables a shot (though they absolutely should), but any fans of RPGs, period.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
    Whereas Rise left me wholly disappointed the more I looked back on the game, it feels like the few issues that I have with Sunbreak are likely to be improved upon as the expansion continues to receive updates – and it’s not like the current state of the game is bad by any stretch of the imagination. I could nitpick about how it adds less monsters to Rise than Iceborne did to World, but that feels unfair when you look at what else the expansion brings to the table, as well as what’s ahead. That’s not to say that I’m judging Sunbreak for what it can be, but rather as some reassurance for anyone that might be heading into the expansion feeling a bit underwhelmed by what’s been shown. Sunbreak is already one of the best expansions that the series has had, and it’s only going to rise up that list from here.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Yakuza 0
    I quickly learned that Yakuza 0 can be equal parts earnest and silly, with high-stakes drama smartly interwoven between casual character interaction and almost-frivolous diversions. It might look like something vaguely reminiscent of something along the lines of Sleeping Dogs, Shenmue, or Grand Theft Auto at a surface level, but based on my experience with the series thus far, it really sits in its own self-carved niche in which it's the only real occupant.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Nioh 3
    The first Nioh marked a great debut for a long-dormant project that had been considered vaporware at one point, and Nioh 2 refined both the mechanics and the storytelling style. In places, Nioh 3 feels like a manufactured return to the series, changing up the formula and resulting in a more mixed bag, and that's what Nioh 3 turned out to be in my eyes. If you come to Nioh primarily for fights and challenges, you will enjoy this new game because it brings an even more varied action combat system. Overall though, those also hoping to find compelling storytelling and worldbuilding might end up finding those aspects rather lackluster.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure
    The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure is an incredible example of the RPG genre; with its rich world and lore paired with a loveable cast of characters, this duology of games deserves to be recognized in the same breath as the other titans of the genre. Titans that I think the Crossbell games surpass even. I adore the Trails games and Azure has further cemented this series as one of my favorite RPG franchises of all time. I can’t wait to join back up with the Special Support Section later this year with Trails Into Reverie. Trails fans, we’re eating good this year, and Trails to Azure is one hell of a starting course.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
    Western players are in for a treat with all of these adjustments and improvements made from the original release of Final Fantasy XII - many of which are old but never made their way West originally. The job system adds another level of interest to party coordination, elements like fast-forward and map overlays add a considerable amount of convenience, and the game looks and sounds great too. This remaster may not change the mind of everyone, but it is no doubt one of the most intriguing entries in the franchise and clearly the definitive version of a truly brilliant game.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    CrossCode
    While CrossCode doesn't always hit the mark in terms of pacing and mechanic cohesiveness, I found a lot of satisfaction from exploring this amazing sprite-based world filled with colorful characters, smart puzzle structures, and enjoyable combat encounters. That long development cycle appears to have worked out in the end - based on sheer content alone and the low price tag, you are sure to get more than your money's worth.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Star Ocean: The Second Story R
    Star Ocean: The Second Story R has brought a cult classic into a new era. It’s been thoughtfully retooled, but it’s still packed with all the heart and soul of the original. Graphically, it’s gorgeous. It still sounds sublime, subjective song preferences aside, and the new quests and features range from fair to fabulous. It’s one of my favorite video games in even finer form.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Wildermyth
    Wildermyth is trying something very few other RPGs do, and it's cool to see how well it all comes together. I find it to be technically impressive and remarkably novel, but unfortunately, the end result is not as interesting as I hoped it would be. Still, with a great aesthetic and a solid enough combat system, it is an earnestly made game unlike much anything else.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time
    Fantasy Life i feels like meeting a friend after a decade and experiencing firsthand how they've grown and flourished in life after some ups and downs. I don't know how Level-5 managed to do it, but Fantasy Life i might just be one of my favorite games of all time, and one I can always count on to improve my mood. It perfectly captures what made the original great, builds on it, and delivers a gigantic RPG that oozes charm in every facet.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    AI: The Somnium Files
    AI: The Somnium Files is a must-play for fans of detective games. It’s risky, creative, fascinating, and feels like the next step for the visual novel medium. There are plenty of valid worries I’ve seen pop up from people who felt burnt by ZTD, but I feel like all of those were addressed here. It’s far from perfect, but the flaws are incredibly minor and it still delivers the strongest narrative I’ve seen from a game all year. Fans and newcomers will find a lot to Love with AI, don’t Sleep on this game.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age
    I cannot recommend Dragon Quest XI enough. It has the best story for the series in ages, giving new players and veterans a reason to engage with the game world and connect with the characters that live in it. The RPG manages to walk the fine line between old-school style and modern upgrades, creating gameplay that is both familiar and refreshing. Dragon Quest XI is not only the best game of the long-running series, it’s one of the best JRPGs in recent years that I’ve played. Whether this is your first Dragon Quest game or you’re a series veteran, you owe yourself to play this game.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights
    Ender Lilies is an emotional sidescroller RPG with a well-told compelling story, beautiful music & art, and solid gameplay. Its hauntingly beautiful style and satisfying world more than makes up for some slight combat blemishes, leaving a lasting impression as one of the most remarkable games of its kind.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Cyberpunk 2077
    When Cyberpunk's grim setting and mix of gameplay systems land, it is a powerfully impressive experience - sprawling, dense, clever, witty, and most importantly damn good fun. Other times, it has all the charm of a moody, edgy teenager.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Fire Emblem Fates: Birthright
    This is a bloody good RPG, but it's one that's been significantly watered down in an attempt to bring in new players. If you're trying to draw a friend into the world of strategy RPGs, Birthright is ideal. If you're a more experienced RPG fan this might well satisfy, but another version of Fire Emblem Fates might satisfy you more - this one is just a little too simple and easy, and in line with that is a touch lacking in depth.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
    Replaying through Twilight Princess was decidedly enjoyable and cemented it as one of my favorites. The somber tone, often melancholic music, an impressive slate of dungeons, and intriguing characters always felt simply comforting, in a way. The transition to HD and few tweaks made in this re-release have only improved on what was already a stellar game.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2
    I greatly enjoyed my time with Fuga 2, much as I had with the first game. That being said, my only hope is that Fuga 3 is a more meaningful evolution of the franchise; while I adored this entry, it’s undeniable that without a larger shakeup in the mechanics and gameplay loop it would be very easy for what is looking to be a bombastic conclusion to the story to fall flat if players were simply met with more of the same. Fuga: Melodies of Steel 2 is a great follow-up, and well worth playing, but I also can’t deny feeling anxious to see what Fuga: Melodies of Steel 3 will have in store for us in the future.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda
    Cadence of Hyrule is a fun time if you know what you’re getting into. This isn’t an average Zelda spin-off, so if you’re awful at keeping a beat and don't want to use the Fixed Beat Mode. But, Cadence of Hyrule is worth a try if you don’t mind going to the rhythm and dealing with a couple of rogue-like elements.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
    While Dragon Quest VIII doesn't try anything new or stray from formula, it's a great example of how execution can outweigh novelty. It may not be the HD remaster some were hoping for, but this is - in my book - the definitive version of Dragon Quest VIII.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Wasteland 3
    Wasteland 3 has a certain attitude that isn't really like most other games I've played. It's often irreverent and sarcastic and frequently bleak, but it still manages to be one of the funniest games I've played this year. At the same time, it has weird moments where I find myself baffled, completely unsure at what the intended response was ever expected to be. At its core is are some absolutely robust systems that RPG fans should love to tinker with, and while the storytelling is often a mixed bag, I found myself appreciative of how Wasteland 3 sets itself apart in a setting that it would be so easy to play it safe in.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 100 Critic Score
    13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
    13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is truly one of the most unique games I have ever played through. My 35 hours with Vanillaware’s latest title is something I wish I got back because I want to play it again for the first time. Kamitani explores so many interesting sci-fi ideas and philosophies in this title and they come together to form something magical. None of this would be nearly as impactful without the unconventional piecemeal storytelling scattered throughout the 13 protagonists’ perspectives. It is a narrative labyrinth that kept me intrigued the entire way. The execution of this game is masterful in its own right, fully utilizing what video game storytelling could be capable of. While the RTS battles drew the short end of the stick, what 13 Sentinels achieves in storytelling for video games is something to be celebrated and commemorated.
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