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
    • 43 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It surely offers quirky and fun gameplay but Spuds Unearthed is held back by its simple structure that doesn't really go the extra mile.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    I laughed a lot while playing Tamagotchi Plaza and wish more games were this funny and silly but I also can't deny that it's also quite limited.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    With so many superior games inspired by XCOM out there, Element Space's buggy and tedious battles simply don't measure up.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    If Let's Go Nuts had tighter and more challenging gameplay with cleverer stage designs then it would be a much better platformer.
    • 43 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Its repetitive nature holds Scar-Lead Salvation back from being good but it's still enjoyable enough to play whenever you want to wind down.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    With some great games in the series' past, Puzzle & Dragons Gold is disappointingly stripped down yet it still offers an exciting combat dynamic, especially for those who prefer to flex their skills online.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 44 Critic Score
    It features simple gameplay in an adorable world but the overall unsatisfying formula and lack of substantial content make it an easily forgettable fighter even for dedicated Touhou fans.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Enchanted Portals looks great within its charming old-school cartoon world but it mostly plays like a bargain bin Super NES game.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 45 Critic Score
    If someone never heard of Crazy Taxi, played Taxi Chaos, and then tried Crazy Taxi; they would think that Taxi Chaos was some sort of rudimentary precursor to the series. It's not a terrible game but it's certainly not nearly as enjoyable as its 22 year old counterpart.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Even though Nickelodeon Kart Racers may appear to be another cartoon cash-in, it actually offers solid racing gameplay as well as plenty of fun tracks, power-ups, and customizable karts that the entire family can enjoy together.
    • 42 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Although Tears of Avia features lovely art, serviceable gameplay, and fun skills, it's such a mess of a game that it's difficult to thoroughly enjoy, especially when you reach its insane difficulty spikes.
    • 41 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    I had a few laughs with HappyFunland but as a game, it's not fun at all and its irritating control issues really make it a challenge.
    • 41 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Gungrave VR will make you feel cool as you shoot your foes while dodging and occasionally reflecting their projectiles but it's so sloppily put together that it's hard to enjoy the action for longer than a few minutes at a time.
    • 41 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    The developers of The Bradwell Conspiracy may be onto something with their immersive world, mysterious story, and top-notch voice acting but the game that surrounds all of that is nothing short of irritating.
    • 41 Metascore
    • 35 Critic Score
    I wanted to enjoy ALTAIR BREAKER, especially after its promising tutorial but after diving into the meat of its gameplay, things start to fall apart fast. With that being said, I know that the developers can make a much better game so let's hope that they do in the future.
    • 41 Metascore
    • 42 Critic Score
    Blackjack is primarily fun when actual money's on the table. Unfortunately, Super Blackjack Battle II Turbo Edition just doesn't do enough with the formula to make it worthwhile so you're better off cashing in your chips and hitting the buffet instead.
    • 40 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Tamarin may be an adorable game but it's also one that'll make you wonder if it's sponsored by the NRA with its odd use of guns.
    • 40 Metascore
    • 18 Critic Score
    Syndrome is a buggy, frustrating mess that doesn't make the slightest effort to be original. It feels like a dull, half-finished amateur project and I was relieved when it broke halfway through and stopped me from playing it any more.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 35 Critic Score
    Although Drive Girls looks like it could provide some crazy action and a charming world, it ultimately lacks in both of these categories. Instead, you're left with a subpar blend of beat 'em up combat and racing that feels like it belongs in the bargain bin.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    I'm sure the developers of Crimson Keep had a clear vision of a fun dungeon crawler in mind but what they actually made is one of the worst games that I've played in a long time. Here's hoping they go back to the drawing board before working on their next game.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    Troll and I has the potential to be a must-play adventure but its lack of fine-tuning makes it an often haphazard experience that'll test your patience more than it provides enjoyment. Here's hoping the developers retool it down the road or perhaps learn from their mistakes and create a more refined sequel because they definitely have a winning formula on their hands.
    • 39 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    With countless superior zombie twin-stick shooters out there, Zombieland: Double Tap - Road Trip feels like a cheap movie tie-in.
    • 38 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Heavy Fire: Red Shadow is such a disappointing game that even if you were a fan of the previous games in the series, you likely won't find anything to enjoy within this bare-bones sequel.
    • 38 Metascore
    • 52 Critic Score
    Randall has the markings of a decent game, especially when it comes to platforming but the bad dialogue, bizarre design choices, dull combat, and overall glitchiness make it hard for me to recommend in its current state.
    • 37 Metascore
    • 24 Critic Score
    36 Fragments of Midnight is not only a waste of money, it's also a waste of time. In fact, it has me worried that the Switch's eShop will end up with as many horrible games on it as the Wii U's and that's a concern that I definitely don't want to see become reality.
    • 36 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Down to Hell isn't a terrible game yet it simply doesn't offer anything that hasn't been done better countless times before.
    • 36 Metascore
    • 25 Critic Score
    In an age where people watch other people play video games, maybe it's time that video games simply play themselves. Hopefully, that statement sounds ridiculous to you because it is. Gamers need gameplay and Tokyo Tattoo Girls has virtually none.
    • 35 Metascore
    • 14 Critic Score
    The premise of Grand Cruise seems promising: a virtual reality mini-game set in One Piece's colourful world. However, it's an awful bare-bones VR experience and the fact that they're charging a decent chunk of change for it is ridiculous.
    • 35 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    When it comes to 3D platformers, Tyler: Model 005 is likely the worst one that I've ever played. The premise and mix of mechanics are definitely promising but it all comes together to make an absolute mess of a game.
    • 35 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    I was debating whether to give Super Tennis 0 or 1 stars and I decided on the latter because at least it's functional and looks decent.
    • 32 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    It may offer a variety of crazy situations but the core gameplay of Doug Hates His Job is nothing short of sloppy and irritating.
    • 32 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Bounty Battle's character roster is the only thing it has going for it as everything else comes across like a school project gone wrong.
    • 31 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Superola and The Lost Burgers is a perfect game for those looking to have a little fun within a ridiculously goofy world. The amount of variety and modes may be superb but don't count on enjoying it for longer than a few hours.
    • 25 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Playing Robot Squad Simulator X is a lot like watching a robot fail video although it manages to be far less entertaining.
    • 25 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    If Alaskans actually drove like you do in this game, the whole state would be completely covered in abandoned overturned vehicles.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Even with its downsides, Supermagical is a blast to play with its cheerful game world and addictive collectibles. However, if you want something more challenging then you're better off sticking with the good old Bust-A-Move series.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    If the idea of navigating through first-person labyrinths appeals to you then Mega Maze is definitely a must-play game. Even with its shortcomings, there's no denying how much fun it is to wander through a maze and eventually find your way to freedom.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Spheroids is one of the most impressive platformers that I played in recent memory. If it had more replay value, a satisfying sense of challenge, and no glitches then I'd consider it the best Buster Bros. experience yet. However, it's still up there as a must-play for both Pang and 2D platformer enthusiasts as Lucas' adventure is one you won't soon forget.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Boom Ball 2 for Kinect is an impressively enjoyable title that anyone who has a fondness for motion-controlled games should pick up. It may have its problems but smashing blocks with balls has never been this much fun.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    It may not be much of a game but it's a worthy download as a silly distraction for kids to watch and have a few giggles. You might have a few yourself, too.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 31 Critic Score
    Sylvio probably sounds like an interesting little game on paper but its execution is flawed in pretty much every way. If it can even be classed as a horror game, it's probably the least scary and dullest one that I've ever played.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 59 Critic Score
    Toby: The Secret Mine is a short and frequently frustrating adventure. You may occasionally get immersed in its simple controls and phenomenal audio but you'll quickly snap out of it whenever something unexpectedly ends your life.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 56 Critic Score
    Subterrain deserves praise for the intricacy of its various systems but they could have been implemented in a much more user-friendly way. With all the constant monitoring and running back and forth, it'd probably be less stressful to endure a real zombie apocalypse.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 44 Critic Score
    Adventure Pop is a lazy Bust-A-Move clone that tries to rope gamers in with its charming visuals but it ultimately fails to live up to its inspirations. Even though it's free, you're better off paying a few bucks for a classic Bust-A-Move title.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    The puzzles are challenging but the core gameplay is often disappointing.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    In time, you'll come to recognize situations where you should slow down but these unexpected deaths and frustrations will never fully disappear. Whenever they happened, I usually took a few deep breaths or even a short break, but I found myself regularly coming back in hopes of learning from my past experiences to become an even better explorer, looter, and fighter.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 61 Critic Score
    Plantera is one of the cutest games that I've ever played. If you're in the market to chill out and observe adorable creatures working on a farm then you should ignore my score below and download this immediately.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Brave Dungeon is a fabulous portable RPG set in the delightful world of The Legend of Dark Witch. If you're a fan of the series or just want a simple dungeon exploration game on the go then downloading it should be a no-brainer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 36 Critic Score
    SkyKeepers is one of those games that gets on your nerves for all the wrong reasons. The amount of glitches hampers the mediocre and irritating gameplay to the point where I can't imagine anyone getting enjoyment out of what SkyKeepers has to offer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    Wonder Boy Returns is a noble effort at modernizing a retro 2D action gem. Although it's not quite as immediately gratifying as the original due to its awkward controls, you'll still be in for an enjoyable adventure that may just put a smile on your face.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 57 Critic Score
    The Banner Saga games look and sound great and there has clearly been a lot of effort put into their design and lore but their repetitive battles and profuse, prattling dialogue make their journeys ones of drawn-out tedium rather than exhilarating adventure.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 57 Critic Score
    Snow Moto Racing Freedom is a disappointing follow-up to last year's surprisingly enjoyable Aqua Moto Racing Utopia. Although it features interesting open-ended tracks, the gameplay simply doesn't pull itself from racing mediocrity.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 53 Critic Score
    More effort has clearly gone into Waste of Space than some of the previous Goat Simulator add-ons but that can't help the fact that the whole joke of the original premise has long since worn thin. With only a few missions to keep you occupied and lots of dead space between the fun stuff, Waste of Space doesn't take long until it starts living up to its name.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 59 Critic Score
    River City Melee: Battle Royal Special contains a ton of characters to battle with in fun gimmick-filled stages. However, it doesn't manage to grow past the fact that it's merely an expanded version of a middle-of-the-road mini-game.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Elliot Quest is a fun and challenging throwback to gaming of long ago and will appeal mostly to those with nostalgia for classic action-adventure games. A familiarity with Zelda II will definitely help you appreciate many of the finer details.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 50 Critic Score
    Although Paddle Vs. Paddle is a very bare-bones game and has a disappointing single player component, I must admit that the concept is solid for some enjoyable multiplayer matches. Hopefully, the developer will make an expanded version down the road.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Shu
    Shu is a memorable and charming little 2D adventure that features varied gameplay and plenty of replay value. It may occasionally be irritating but the amount of challenging fun to be had surely makes it worthwhile if you're a fan of the genre.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 43 Critic Score
    Cubit HD's cheerful sights and groovy tunes fail to make up for its frustrating and bare-bones gameplay. Although you may get a few minutes of fun out of it, you'll be better off taking your change to an arcade.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Dragon Bros is one of the most enjoyable cooperative run and gun games that you'll ever play. It may not last long but the amount of fun to be had in its action-packed world filled with awesome music will definitely delight any retro gamer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    A Hole New World is a fantastic tribute to retro 2D action games and it also crafts a unique gameplay formula that's both challenging and rewarding. You may not play it for more than a couple of hours but the time you spend with it will definitely be memorable.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 62 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a fun albeit brief old-school shooting adventure then Blasting Agent: Ultimate Edition will fit the bill. However, don't expect it to be a revolutionary take on retro running and gunning.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    Tinertia is one fantastic-looking game but the gameplay can quickly make even the most hardcore gamer frustrated with its repetitive nature and reliance on trial and error. That being said, climbing the leaderboards can be surprisingly satisfying.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Leap of Fate is a solid twin-stick roguelike that fans of the genre will thoroughly enjoy. Although it has its issues, the addictive nature of seeing what the cards will deal next definitely makes it a game worth checking out.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    After all is said and done, I'm very impressed with Eba & Egg: A Hatch Trip. The unique and enjoyable spin on the endless runner formula will surely make genre fans have an eggstremely fun time.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    ACA NeoGeo: Metal Slug is a wonderful package that both fans and series newbies can appreciate. With incredible gameplay set in a fun-filled world, what's not to love about this cooperative arcade classic?
    • tbd Metascore
    • 35 Critic Score
    Even at its budget price, Leaving Lyndow doesn't offer enough content to make it worth buying. Furthermore, its awful technical problems ensure what is here is unenjoyable to play. If it was supposed to get me excited for its upcoming counterpart, it failed.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    Metal Slug 2 may not be as consistently exciting as the first game but the added variety and extra characters make it a worthy sequel indeed. If you're a fan of retro games then you'll have a blast with this one.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Blackhole: Complete Edition is a clever and diabolical puzzler wrapped up in a mysterious sci-fi narrative. The platforming controls leave a lot to be desired and I'd imagine that the ramped-up difficulty will drive away casual gamers but if you're a hardcore puzzle-platforming enthusiast then Blackhole will certainly put your skills to the test.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 36 Critic Score
    In the end, if you manage to snag the Into The Ice DLC for free then it's worth a download. However, the lack of any significant new content and the fact that Kane is almost unplayable means that paying for this DLC will likely make you feel cheated.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm Legacy is nothing short of an impressive compilation that includes some of the craziest battles in gaming. Even if you're not a Naruto fan, it's hard not to love every second you spend bringing out your inner ninja.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    INK
    Ink is a pleasant albeit brief experience that 2D platforming fans should thoroughly enjoy. In the end, the precise controls and charming visual style allow the gameplay to really leap off the page.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Blackguards 2 presents a dark and engaging tale that's sure to haunt you even after you put it down. When you factor in the rewarding and challenging SRPG gameplay, you're left with a must-have game for those looking to put their tactical abilities to the test.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Robonauts' gunplay mechanics are pretty by the book but it's bolstered by colorful visuals and planet-hopping exploration. At only 12 levels, the campaign is a bit on the short side but Robonauts is still a fun little adventure.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    If you're looking to experience a long-lost yet undeniably enjoyable classic shoot 'em up then Battle Garegga Rev.2016 is a must-play game. It may be over 20 years after its initial release but it holds up beautifully.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 63 Critic Score
    As the first Nintendo Arcade Archives release, Mario Bros. is a solid game that's still fun to play. Here's hoping we get to see the classic Donkey Kong games and more obscure titles like Popeye sometime soon.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 67 Critic Score
    Shoppe Keep is a fun and addictive simulation experience. Its poor adaptation to console and subpar visuals may hold it back from being fully immersive but what's here is still enjoyable enough to warrant a download for those curious about its premise.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Mecho Tales' world really looks remarkable so it's a shame that the rest of the game is so woefully average. There's nothing terrible about it but there is very little (aside from the graphical style) that I'd actually recommend for people to check out.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The Inner World: The Last Wind Monk's charming characters and graphics are spectacular and it features one interesting and deep story. It's a bit disappointing that the console controls weren't improved but this is still a must-buy game for point 'n' click adventure fans.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    The lighthearted yet unconventional premise of Dungeons 3 is a breath of fresh air. When you factor in the addictive blend of real-time strategy and resource management, you're left with one rewarding (yet evil) gameplay formula.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 59 Critic Score
    Stunt Kite Masters VR is a surprisingly challenging high score chaser with two very different modes. Although it has an innovative premise, the fun unfortunately doesn't last much longer than flying a kite in real life.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    Boiling Bolt primarily appeals to hardcore arcade shooter fans who are looking for a challenging experience but even casual gamers will find it hard not to admire its gorgeous presentation and rewarding gameplay.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Boom Ball 3 for Kinect is an ultimately familiar experience but it's still a ton of fun, especially with a pal by your side. In the end, it may be nearing the end of 2017 yet the Kinect remains a surprisingly enjoyable little contraption.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    Arcade Archives: Vs. Super Mario Bros. is a fantastic way to experience Nintendo's defining 2D platformer in a slightly different light. In the end, if you're a hardcore fan then buying this long-lost gem is a no-brainer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Although The Legend of Dark Witch 3 features undeniably tighter gameplay, the absence of a couple series staples and a disappointing selection of extra content make it a substantial letdown. That said, what's here is still a blast that both fans and newcomers will enjoy.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Strikers 1945 II is a step up from the original but it still doesn't quite reach the heights of other classic shmups. The refined gameplay mechanics and added challenge make it a unique enough experience so if you enjoyed the first then you'll want to play this as well.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a unique shoot 'em up then you can't do much better than Zero Gunner 2. The spectacular visuals and strategic rotation mechanic make it a must-have shmup for any genre fan.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 69 Critic Score
    If you have an affinity for arcade redemption games like I do then Pierhead Arcade is a worthwhile collection. However, just don't expect the games to play even half as smoothly as they do in real life.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Many gamers know KEMCO for churning out mostly mediocre RPGs at a high volume and unfortunately, that's exactly what Dragon Sinker feels like. It's a shame because with a bit more time and care, a few interesting concepts could have reached their full potential.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Magical Drop III is definitely one of those puzzle games that you'll be happy to add to your collection and play it every now and again but don't expect it to keep you entertained for longer than an hour at a time.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 57 Critic Score
    If Gem Smashers posed any sort of challenge then it would be a good (if not, great) puzzler due to its unique mechanics and intuitive gameplay. Considering you can't even die, the only enjoyable way to play it is via local multiplayer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Gal Gunvolt Burst is the same game as Mighty Gunvolt Burst and merely contains its Ekoro DLC by default. Therefore, it gets the same score. If you've never played it before then now's a great time to pick it up. It's fun retro 2D action in its purest form and the character customization is a blast. Let's just hope that Inti Creates does something a little more original for their next release.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 47 Critic Score
    I'm glad that so many classic Psikyo games are being re-released. However, Sol Divide: Sword of Darkness is one that only completionists should purchase because it's one of the most disappointing shmups that I've ever played.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    Tengai is a worthwhile successor to Samurai Aces and is decent enough for any shoot 'em up fan to happily add it to their digital collection. I just wish it did more to set itself apart in such a crowded genre.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I'm surprised that more people aren't playing The Little Ball That Could as it's such a satisfying and brilliant take on the Marble Madness formula. If it sounds even remotely appealing then do yourself a favour and give it a download.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you enjoy playing competitive local multiplayer experiences then 12 Orbits is a must-have game. Its deceptively simple gameplay dynamic and large selection of variations make for an addictive and enjoyable time with friends.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 51 Critic Score
    Skee-Ball is a simple and enjoyable arcade classic. However, you'd expect a console version to come with all sorts of bells and whistles and the fact that this doesn't include many means that you're better off playing it in an arcade.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    I've always found Picross-style puzzles to be an enjoyable and relaxing way to spend an evening after a long day of work. Pic-a-Pix Color may be nothing revolutionary but it is a completely functional and enjoyable nonogram puzzle game with a slight twist.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 58 Critic Score
    Devious Dungeon is a competent game but it lacks any notable features that would make it stand out in a sea of similar currently available games. Different playable classes, varied level objectives, diverse weapons, and a plethora of other gameplay options could have helped alleviate some of the repetition but unfortunately, none of that kind of content is featured here.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Battlezone Gold Edition is not only the best PlayStation VR game that I've ever played; it's also one of the best roguelikes. Rebellion definitely knows what they're doing and I can't wait to see what they come up with next.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Shift Quantum is one of the best practical puzzle games that I've ever played. If you're a fan of these kinds of noodle-scratching puzzlers then do yourself a favour and give it a try.

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