Video Chums' Scores

  • Games
For 3,627 reviews, this publication has graded:
  • 48% higher than the average critic
  • 18% same as the average critic
  • 34% lower than the average critic
On average, this publication grades 2.3 points lower than other critics. (0-100 point scale)
Average Game review score: 73
Highest review score: 96 Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
Lowest review score: 0 Bus Fix 2019
Score distribution:
3627 game reviews
    • 75 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    In an age when RPGs are generally becoming increasingly dark, violent, brash, and serious, the brilliantly colourful humour-filled lightheartedness of these Rhapsody games shines through in a profoundly distinct fashion. From adorable characters to lovely musical numbers and rewarding combat to oodles of side-splitting jokes; there's certainly a lot to love here.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If it featured more visceral and tight combat, Somber Echoes would be an excellent Metroidvania with its awesome game world to explore.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    High On Life 2 presents such a constant barrage of ridiculous humour and memorable gameplay scenarios that it can be a great deal of fun. At the same time, its core gameplay is quite simple and not everyone will appreciate its world's cynical albeit colourful lens.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Fans of felines looking for a relaxing survival exploration game for their Switch will fall in love with Cattails. Its strange world has a certain charm that I've never experienced before and I'm sure you'll agree.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Zombieland: Headshot Fever Reloaded is a solid arcade-style shooter that'll put your skills to the test whether you're trying to climb the leaderboards or master all of the challenges for each stage. It's quite inconsistent, though, so be ready for some frustrations.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    It's almost 5:40 so I should really wrap this review up. In short, Angry Video Game Nerd 1 & 2 Deluxe is a pretty good compilation. On the other hand, adjusting to its crap factor will sometimes make you rather have a buffalo take a diarrhea dump in your ear.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Agatha Christie - Death on the Nile is a funky fresh twist on the classic novel that presents 2 very different but intertwining storylines and a variety of elaborate puzzles. If you're a fan of detective games at all then you can't miss this one.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Ys: Memories of Celceta remains the best that the incredible ARPG series has to offer. Although it hasn't changed much over the years, it's cool that those who missed it on PlayStation Vita can now enjoy it on PS4.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    Mortal Shell may offer a solid experience but as I played it, I couldn't help but want to dive into the Souls series again as the amount of variety and excitement in FromSoftware's games makes this feel like a hollow shell in comparison.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Doraemon Story of Seasons: Friends of the Great Kingdom is an enjoyable sequel with attractive graphics, a heartwarming story, and the addition of an impressively useful buddy system. It's got some quality of life improvements, too, which is great. In the end, fans of Story of Seasons will have a lot of fun tending to their animals and crops while unlocking silly gadgets with Doraemon and friends.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    With so many JRPGs remaining stagnant or trying to appeal to the masses, Atelier Ryza stands tall amongst its peers as a truly amazing experience. Whether you're a fan of the series or just a JRPG enthusiast, you need to play this masterpiece.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Battle Chasers: Nightwar makes an awesome first impression and features solid dungeon crawling gameplay. However, the campaign gradually turns from fresh and exciting to a chore about a dozen hours in so don't expect it to be the next must-have RPG.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Although Etherborn is a somewhat short and often frustrating adventure, its intricate stages are mostly a joy to solve.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    For a laidback casual gaming experience, few games offer as much delightful sights and silly shenanigans as Labyrinth City: Pierre the Maze Detective so if you want a simple game to chill with after a long day, I recommend giving it a go.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Fans of Tempest are sure to enjoy this latest installment in the long-running series. I definitely did. That being said, it doesn't quite feel like the next evolution of the classic formula. Here's hoping Tempest 5000 offers a more innovative take on the franchise.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Atelier Mysterious Trilogy Deluxe Pack is a wonderful collection of 3 excellent games with oodles of additional content. If you still haven't played these delightful RPGs then you need to add this compilation to your collection.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Amnesia: Rebirth is a decent horror game yet it suffers from underwhelming and predictable payoffs. It simply isn't as good as its predecessor so if you're going into it expecting something as good as Amnesia was 10 years ago; you're going to be disappointed. Otherwise, it's a good horror game that will scratch whatever itch you have for virtual frights.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    In Bugsnax, the bugs are snacks and that's quite cool. Beyond that, its relaxing open-world objective-based gameplay is solid for winding down with after a long day but it doesn't really have much else going for it.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Although I enjoyed Blade Strangers quite a lot, it still doesn't reach any particularly high notes for a fighter. That being said, what other game allows you to fight as Quote, Gunvolt, and Shovel Knight?
    • 75 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Bulletstorm was a great game in 2011 and it's just as enjoyable in 2017. The graphical upgrades of the Full Clip Edition are nothing to write home about and the added features aren't terribly significant but the core Bulletstorm experience is still as exciting as ever.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Graceful Explosion Machine boasts exciting and frantic shooting action, colorful visuals, and a well implemented combo scoring system. However, it's dragged down somewhat by a lack of creative level design and too many things happening onscreen at once. That being said, it's still a generally refined and overall enjoyable shooter.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Despite only consisting of seven levels and relying on players replaying them multiple times, I never got bored with Bleed. The additional enemies and increased challenge made each playthrough feel different and the brevity of the levels helped to constantly provide a sense of progression. Of course, the smooth controls and exciting 2D shooting action didn't hurt either.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    If you've been craving a crazy destruction-filled action-packed racer then Onrush is a must-buy. It's intense and features a variety of play styles all set in an attractive world that won't forgive you for blinking.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you love brick-breaking games then Doughlings: Arcade would be a decent addition to your collection. Its lackluster presentation and simplistic core gameplay weigh down the fun but it's still a rather enjoyable little game.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    I enjoyed my time with Miles & Kilo and it gave me flashbacks to playing Adventure Island as a kid. If that sounds like it could be fun to you then you definitely won't regret giving it a try.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Carly and the Reaperman is quite possibly the best co-op VR experience yet. I highly recommend playing it this Halloween season.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Syder Reloaded is the complete package when it comes to modern arcade shooting action and it's one tough game to put down.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you loved Salt and Sanctuary then Vigil: The Longest Night will certainly impress with its tight gameplay and captivating world.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    ScourgeBringer is a fun but extremely difficult roguelike that'll appeal to a very niche crowd. If you enjoy a soul-crushing challenge then go ahead but be warned; it's one of the most frustratingly difficult games out there and it punishes you heavily for your mistakes.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    QV
    It may be simple and laidback but there's no denying just how magical QV is with its satisfying puzzles and adorable game world.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Playing Yupitergrad will make you feel like Bionic Commando albeit in a humorous cel-shaded puzzle-filled space station adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Anodyne 2: Return to Dust is a fantastic indie that captures 2 bygone eras beautifully so if you like trippy games, you need to play it.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you want to play something out of the ordinary, you certainly can't go wrong with the very intriguing Cosmic Top Secret.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    Hot Wheels Unleashed is an okay racing game at best. If you want a much more enjoyable arcade-style racer with your favourite childhood toys then check out Beach Buggy Racing 2: Island Adventure which has its very own Hot Wheels Booster Pack DLC.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Although this short adventure doesn't have much in terms of gameplay and its story is predictable, A Memoir Blue does a good job of portraying the life of a young athlete in the spotlight while showing how she got there and how she deals with her personal struggles.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Railway Empire 2 may not be a perfect fit for console play but I still loved my time with it and I definitely hope that it gets updated to help make it more accessible and streamlined. Although it can be a great deal of track-laying fun, I currently prefer the first game.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Oaken is one of the best-looking and sounding indie games I've played this year and its strategic elements are wonderfully fleshed-out.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even with its goofy premise, Shotgun King: The Final Checkmate is a cleverly strategic roguelike that'll certainly keep you hooked.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you have a soft spot for cuteness and love finding hidden objects then you'll absolutely adore Hidden Through Time 2: Myths & Magic.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Legend of Steel Empire made me realise how much fun this classic shmup is all these years after its debut and that's rather special.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Whether you're playing RoboDunk for its distinct solo roguelike campaign or via local multiplayer, you'll end up having a grand time.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I'm very happy to have finally experienced Ninja Five-O and if you enjoy retro 2D ninja-based action games, you're sure to love it, too.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's great that Puzzle Quest: Immortal Edition is here to liven up the classic indie with slick visuals and oodles of accumulated content.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It's awesome that shoot 'em ups as unique and enjoyable as RANDOMAX are releasing all the way in 2025 and the dev's passion really shows.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    My gaming chum and I had a lot of fun with the clever amount of variety in All Hands on Deck but it's certainly not a smooth experience.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Even though Fate/Extella Link feels a lot like its predecessor, it's still a much-improved game that'll keep you hacking and slashing for hours. Its super-fun 8 player online component is just the icing on the cake.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Dragon Star Varnir does what few JRPGs do as it features in-depth party customization as well as a delightful cast of characters. Factor in a boatload of additional content to master and you're left with a must-have RPG.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Ayo the Clown is exactly what a 2D platformer should be; silly, fun, challenging, varied, and intuitive. So, if you enjoy the genre then adding this indie gem to your collection is a must. Plus, it's sure to make you smile and that's always a good thing.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    The pose-based gameplay of WarioWare: Move It! sets it apart from previous entries and it all works out impressively well with mostly intuitive controls and a super-fun co-op Story mode. Wario's moves aren't quite as smooth as they were back in the day, though.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    I mostly enjoyed GrimGrimoire OnceMore and it still looks lovely but at the same time, its gameplay isn't all that involving, especially after you master the basics which doesn't take all that long.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Ultimately, Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath is a decent expansion. It has a solid story and the additional characters are a welcome addition but none of it is as good as the base game. In the end, Aftermath just might be asking a little too much from fans.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Even with its flaws, Labyrinth of Refrain: Coven of Dusk is one of the most enjoyable dungeon crawlers that I've ever played. The somewhat open-ended progression system and rewarding party growth mechanics make for one satisfying adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Frantic co-op multiplayer games don't get much better than Very Very Valet with its hilarious gameplay premise and silly scenarios.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    Although Mask of Truth is certainly a better game than Mask of Deception, it unfortunately retains many of its flaws. That being said, fans of the previous game will have a wonderful time finally seeing the conclusion to this two-part adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Small issues aside, Ittle Dew 2 is a must-have game for anyone who's in the market for a lighthearted yet gratifying adventure set in a charming world.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    In the end, escape room enthusiasts will find a lot to love in the gorgeously atmospheric and puzzle-filled The Room VR: A Dark Matter.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    River City Girls 2 does everything that I wanted it to and a little bit more. Needless to say, if you enjoyed the original then you'll love this as well so those looking for more silly beat 'em up fun will have a blast with Misako and Kyoko in their latest wacky adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Patapon 2 is an often overlooked classic that you should definitely play if you haven't already. With that said, it doesn't quite feel modernized or remastered enough in this iteration yet it still manages to be packed full of charm and challenge.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Scintillatron 4096 feels like a long-lost retro arcade game yet it offers a unique scoring system that's fresh and will keep you hooked.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    Aside from its new Battleground modes and Warden class, the bulk of Morrowind is essentially just more Elder Scrolls Online with little new added to the formula. If you enjoy the base game, you'll have no reason to dislike it but if you feel ESO gets boring and samey after a while, you won't find anything in Vvardenfell that will change your mind.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    With an impressive RPG throwback core game and oodles of high quality physical extras, Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon Collector's Edition offers one nostalgic package that any fan of dark fantasy role-playing will absolutely adore.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Its mobile roots definitely show but The Alto Collection offers some enjoyable albeit simplistic gameplay with eye-popping visuals.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Although it takes an understandably simplistic approach to the familiar gameplay, there's so much to love about Atelier Marie Remake: The Alchemist of Salburg that any fan of the series will absolutely adore almost every second of playtime.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Concrete Genie is one of the most imaginative games ever created. Although it's short and super-easy, you're bound to love your time in Denska then down the road, you'll think fondly back on Ash and his genies' lovely adventure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    Persona Dancing: Endless Night Collection is merely an expanded version of Persona 4: Dancing All Night with no substantial changes or additional modes. It's still fun but there's no denying that Atlus could have provided many more reasons to hit the dance floor.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Attack on Titan 2 is an interesting sequel as it chooses to retell the anime's story from the beginning and reuses a whole lot of assets and maps that existed in the previous game. While several smaller features have been added, it sometimes lacks originality. Fortunately, the core Titan combat is as satisfying and addictive as ever.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Whether you played the original Vita game or not, Tokyo Xanadu eX+ is such a phenomenal action RPG dungeon crawler that every fan of the genre needs to check out with its satisfying fast-paced team-based combat, great soundtrack, and charming world.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars is the sort of game that you'll play when you want a slow-paced and relaxing adventure; for that, it's an excellent experience. However, it can sometimes be bogged down by its gameplay's own indulgent vapidness.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Steel Assault is an incredible retro-inspired game but unfortunately, its credits will roll once you really start vibing with its action-packed campaign. It's a prime example of how sometimes; great gameplay alone isn't quite enough.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Even after 10 years, Need for Speed Hot Pursuit Remastered is bursting with some of the most thrilling racing gameplay out there.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a simple and addictive puzzler that features plenty of insane cartoon violence and horror references then Slayaway Camp: Butcher's Cut is a must-buy game. However, if you enjoy it too much then please do society a favour and see a psychiatrist.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The Ninja Saviors: Return of the Warriors is worth playing through once or twice and after that, you've experienced all it has to offer.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    As one of the most unique games that I've played in a long time, Carto blew me away with its clever gameplay and lovely world.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Lost Records: Bloom & Rage - Tape 1 is a fun nostalgic trip back to the '90s and the mechanic of making short clips on Swann's camcorder is a clever gameplay element that adds another welcoming layer to the mostly narrative experience.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    The way that The Medium brings trauma to life in various ways is awe-inspiring. At the same time, it's not all that good of a video game.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The many elements of Dread Nautical culminate in a formula that makes it enjoyable to chip away at the challenging campaign.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    I had a very good time revisiting the DS classics in Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection and it's such a lovely compilation that it's sure to charm you with its excellent cast of characters, oodles of extras, and welcoming assortment of settings.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Silver Lining is a solid conclusion to The City That Never Sleeps DLC pack. After completing it, you'll want to dive straight back in to New York City and swing through new adventures so here's hoping the sequel gets announced soon.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Doraemon Story of Seasons provides a unique take on what is mostly a tried and true formula. If you can deal with many minor quality of life issues and have the patience to spend a lot of time mining and lumbering, you'll get some good farming fun out of this title.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even though there are loads of similar games out there, Black Future '88 manages to be wholly worthwhile and exceptionally fun.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Beyond a Steel Sky is an impressive adventure game with an intriguing story and a fun hacking system that adds a layer of challenge. As you play, you'll constantly wonder what situation you'll face next and what chain of events you'll have to complete while you're there.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time definitely doesn't offer anything particularly groundbreaking but it does feature satisfying old-school hack and slash fun that's hard not to enjoy. Throw in some RPG elements and you're left with a solid albeit lackluster experience.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Demon Turf is one of the best 3D platformers in recent years and it even rivals recent AAA attempts at the genre. With spectacular gameplay, a huge campaign that's brimming with replay value, clever gadgets, and a gorgeous presentation; it's the whole package.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    I'm loving Super Mario Bros. 35 and can't wait for the many inevitable updates that it'll receive in the coming months. The blend of its highly competitive online structure with classic 8-bit gameplay is simply a blast and I hope to see you online, too.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Although a lot of The Gardens Between is focused on its narrative, it also has clever brain-teasing puzzles and an engaging world that will hold the interest of gamers looking for an immersive story as well as those who love a challenge.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Bubble Bobble 4 Friends: The Baron Is Back! is a fantastic revival of a classic arcade game that has stood the test of time beautifully. If you're a fan of the series then this newly improved modern interpretation will be sure to delight.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Redout 2 is a racer that's hard to put down as it's very satisfying to master while you gradually memorize tracks and perfect your skills. However, with some unintuitive aspects and unforgivable load times, it can also kind of be a pain in the ass.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Playing Shoulders of Giants is a joy, especially after you unlock some impressive gear and really start to wreak havoc on invading evil forces. When you throw in the lovely environment-transforming visuals and take the fight online, you're left with a winning formula.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    There's a lot of frantic fun packed into GODBREAKERS, especially if you enjoy experimenting with playstyles and enemy abilities. It may be a little limiting of an experience but there's enough entertainment to be had that I still recommend it.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Tokyo Xanadu is nothing short of engaging action RPG goodness that'll have you coming back for more. Ultimately, the lovely cast of characters and immediately gratifying combat combine seamlessly to make it a must-have JRPG.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Zombie Rollerz: Pinball Heroes is the best indie surprise of the year so far. Its combination of pinball action, strategic roguelike structure, and cartoony goofiness is just great for anyone who loves having fun with their video games.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    Ghosts 'n Goblins is a classic that has stood the test of time. Unfortunately, the same thing can't be said about Resurrection as it takes a bit too many missteps in trying to bring the arcade classic into the modern age.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    METAL GEAR SOLID: Master Collection Vol.1 includes some of the most groundbreaking video games ever made so even if the featured ports aren't all that special, you still get one awesome package and the extras are quite lovely to boot.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Space Harrier's fast-paced action can be quite fun but its simplicity and annoying aspects will make your excitement quickly wear thin.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Rock of Ages 3: Make & Break is the best in the series yet so if you enjoy smashing things by rolling a giant boulder around and setting up traps to mess with your foes then you'll have a blast making and breaking in this fun-filled sequel.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The super-rewarding gameplay of Gloomy Eyes is brought to new heights with its thought-provoking story and exceptionally detailed visuals.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Chrono Cross: The Radical Dreamers Edition brought back a lot of lovely memories and thankfully, Chrono Cross is still a great RPG all of these years later. The fact that you get an officially translated Radical Dreamers is rather peachy, too.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Fans of old-school RPGs who love open-ended campaigns will have a fantastic time with Romancing SaGa 3. Just keep in mind; the adventure within will contain plenty of frustrating moments, especially if you don't use a guide.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    If you haven't played a Lego game in a long time then I highly recommend Lego DC Super-Villains. Its huge cast of fun villains, in-depth character customization, intricate hub, and satisfying bosses make it worth its weight in Lego bricks.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Couch co-op games often get compared to Overcooked but KeyWe is such an excellent example of the genre that from now on, games should be compared to it. If there's one co-op game that you play this year, make sure it's KeyWe.

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