TARTARUS is a unique concept in that it makes computer puzzles come alive with realistic representations, where most titles try to make abstract mini games out of “hacking.” The plot and overall horror atmosphere don’t come together, however. Overall, this is a solid attempt at making light programming puzzles interesting, but more work needs to be done in this area before we see a title that is truly free of tedium.

Though this visual novel has an interesting narrative, it is hindered by a lack of impactful choices, a lack of options, and branching errors that take you out of the story.

The same elements and design choices in Observer that make it a cerebral and provocative failed-future experience are those that prohibit satisfaction in its gameplay. Detailed world-building shines through in-game dialogue and lore, yet falls drastically short in any actual spatial embodiment of forces and institutions. The small space in which you're trapped is a quaint microcosm of Observer's world, but after rich promises of variety and exploration, it's ultimately too micro to satisfy.

For a first project, Antagonist shows much promise, and I'm anxious to see what it does next.

Implementation is disappointing, as gameplay just doesn’t feel right and leads to frustration.

A tale of the almighty power of time, The Watchmaker is reminiscent of Portal in its humor and scientific focus. Playing will prompt reflection and evoke emotion, but deficiencies include narrative, level design, and puzzles.

Waking the Glares - Chapters I & II feels like a good first try, but the soft, soothing music and pleasant voice acting weren't enough. The series could grow, as Wisefool Studios gains more experience and support from the community; sadly, though, these are steep requirements for players that already have a score of immersive, truly fascinating walking simulators from which to choose, not to mention puzzle games that actually require deep contemplation.

The graphics are great, but the story and the characters could use more development. The choices you make don’t feel like they matter to the outcome of this brief experience.

A relaxing walking simulator that, while beautiful and narratively interesting, ultimately does not have much for you to do.

Gorgeous ink-on-paper visuals lift Inked beyond its humble mechanics and give it a unique flavor you won’t find in too many other places. With its puzzles providing the bulk of the gameplay, however, Inked’s problematic controls and technical issues cause it to fall short of the soaring heights its art readily promises.

A ridiculous romp through a universe that doesn’t take itself too seriously, A Knight’s Quest offers an enjoyable and forgettable ride that’s only slightly marred by bugs, uninteresting combat, and a storyline that makes you laugh every once in a while.

Ultimately, nostalgia has never been, nor will ever be, the reason behind a purchase of mine; nor should it ever overshadow gameplay and mechanics so much that care about how the release plays falls by the wayside. It definitely brings the 1990s era to the modern day, but some things just should be left in the past.

The production quality isn’t terrible, when compared to other titles in the genre, there’s nothing that makes WRC 6 special, besiders than the fully licensed vehicles and drivers. If you’re in it for the name and brand recognition, then this title is probably for you. Otherwise, either buy Dirt Rally or put your $44.99 in a piggy bank and save up for a real rally car.

Genital Jousting is a stylish, unique game that doesn’t have the cojones to warrant its current market price. Bringing this game home will leave you feeling cheated and unsatisfied after spending some time in bed with it — but that doesn’t mean it’s a completely lost cause.

Deiland, charming and adorably animated as it is, travels at a glacial pace that will quickly lose the interest of hungrier gamers. As a casual farming simulator, it’s mildly satisfying, but getting to the more complex and interesting tidbits of this title takes a mind-numbing time grind that most players will, likely, politely decline.

While it is respectable that Syndrome VR attempts to pay homage to some of the best titles in the sci-fi survival horror genre, it neither distinguishes itself with new ideas nor does it improve or even match the elements it lifts from these titles. Its campaign is filled with backtracking and padding, and when anything of significance happens, this, too, is let down by poor stealth and shooter gameplay. Furthermore, the tacked-on VR mode is not up to the industry standard and doesn't justify the higher price. The most hardcore fans of the genre may be able to overlook many of its flaws, but as it stands, there are much better options out there.

This murder mystery has an interesting and engaging narrative, but not much to do besides watching.

ELEX is an ode to fans of Gothic and Risen, and fans will most likely be satisfied. How detailed the title is makes it clear: Piranha Bytes isn’t trying to cash in on an aging franchise. That being said, the issues cannot be brushed aside. It’s been nearly two decades since the studio published its first game, Gothic I, and what plagued the earlier titles affects ELEX as well. And that is a problem.

For die-hard ONE PIECE fans and players interested in creatively swinging around some nice-looking cities, this is the ideal title, but too many elements feel unfinished or underdeveloped to truly say its potential was fulfilled.

Need For Speed Heat tries hard to be a game for car people with over one hundred vehicles and deep customization features. However, it alienates the genre's biggest fans with an overused storyline, over-the-top arcade physics, and a lack of wheel support.

While The Office Quest’s absurdity is the powerhouse of its hilarity, it’s also the stumbling block that causes its overall gameplay to be bizarrely difficult and often bewildering. Its clever satire drives you through its myriad of point-and-click puzzles, but some of the more unexpected brain teasers may have casual players perplexed and scratching their heads for far too long.

Although Pylon: Rogue provides fun, the lack of upgrades that carry over, aside from unlocking more items, may deter players. Enjoyment might diminish after so many runs, depending on what you’re looking for in a title, but that’s simply the nature of the genre. However, if you like rogue-likes, such as The Binding of Isaac, and enjoy difficult titles, you’ll likely enjoy this.

A title that aims high, but is severely undermined by clunky controls, painful camera movements, and confusing, cartoonishly over-the-top story elements.

Though this arena fighter starts off fun, repetitive missions, boring arenas, and randomized fight elements cause that entertainment to wear off quickly.

Tempest Citadel makes large promises and misses the mark on them all. While it’s certainly playable, it’s a frustrating experience that lacks player engagement. The most redeeming part of this title is the original artwork, which may entice the unsuspecting consumer into purchasing a lackluster entry into the already crowded strategy genre.

A fun RPG with strong tabletop theming held back by poor AI, repetition, and lack of clear signposting.

While it draws upon influences of games long past, it ultimately fails to incorporate more recent innovations in its genre.

We Are Chicago raises real issues that still plague parts of America, and encourages young people to stay away from gang violence, and this goal is praiseworthy – but between the flat graphics, the uninspired characters, and the nausea-inducing camera movement, We Are Chicago isn't an enjoyable gaming experience.