Video Chums' Scores

  • Games
For 3,660 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 Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
Lowest review score: 0 Bus Fix 2019
Score distribution:
3660 game reviews
    • 63 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Warhammer: Chaosbane is a cool ARPG that would have been better if it wasn't a current gen game but unfortunately, we're not in 2005 anymore. For all of its flaws, the combat system is still well done yet the problem is that it feels like a bare minimum product. The fact that there are no optional missions and only a few bosses and different kinds of enemies makes it get repetitive very quickly.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Cadence of Hyrule features incredibly appealing visuals and music as well as a gameplay dynamic that's fresh and exciting. That being said, once you're done with its somewhat short campaign, there isn't really much else to do.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Super Neptunia RPG does a solid job of providing an innovative blend of Metroidvania exploration and fresh JRPG combat with cool twists. However, it could definitely benefit from a lot of tweaks so hopefully, we'll get a more ironed out sequel down the road.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    Contra Anniversary Collection may not be the definitive collection of Konami's retro run 'n' gun franchise but what's here still provides top-notch action-packed co-op entertainment. Contra: Rogue Corps couldn't come out soon enough.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 66 Critic Score
    Riverbond is definitely an appealing game, especially if you want an easy breezy co-op experience to wind down with. However, the lack of both challenge and replay incentives means that you likely won't get more than a few hours of passive enjoyment out of it.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're a fan of 3D platformers then you'll absolutely love Effie. It's one of the most satisfying games that I've played this year so far.
    • 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.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Puzzle game fans owe it to themselves to play Molecats. It's surely one of the best and most underrated indies of the year so far.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Goofy indie games usually get overlooked but do yourself a favour and play Super Cane Magic Zero so you can experience its charming and satisfying gameplay for yourself. Oh, and invite a few friends over while you're at it.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you enjoy overhead twin-stick shooters and want to play a unique take on the genre then you'll absolutely love what Hellmut: The Badass from Hell has to offer. The bonus Space Invaders style arcade game is just the icing on the cake.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Slaughtering encroaching hellish demons sounds great on paper but Skelly Selest ends up being only enjoyable in short bursts.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Enjoying Outer Wilds depends on your willingness to read guides and discuss the game online. Otherwise, you'll probably feel like you're regularly hitting your head on a brick wall as you try to make just an inch of progress.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It may look like just another 2D platformer yet Unruly Heroes provides challenging and unique gameplay that'll keep you hooked.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Darkwood has an interesting world, a story that can go in different directions depending on your decisions, and a gameplay loop that's exciting at times and tedious at others. Its biggest weakness is how hard it can be to get to where you need to go and for that reason alone; I'm not entirely enthusiastic in recommending Darkwood. However, if you have the patience, why not give it a try?
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Gamers who enjoy retro run 'n' gun games will get a huge kick out of Gunlord X with its grueling stages and rewarding boss fights.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    If you thought the Wii had some terrible chicken-themed games then you probably haven't played Chicken Rider. It's clucking awful.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Akane contains intense action with fantastic controls but the repetitiveness of it all ends up making it a somewhat limited experience.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    With basic yet clever gameplay and an over-the-top presentation, Hungry Baby: Party Treats is a fun albeit short-lived party game.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you want a simple Metroidvania adventure that you can complete in 1 or 2 gaming sessions then Gato Roboto is the cat's pajamas.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    If the idea of a rewarding and delightful game of golf in a virtual reality world sounds appealing to you then you'll love your time with Everybody's Golf VR. I just wish that the courses allowed more than 1 person to play at a time.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Team Sonic Racing is an exceptionally fun kart racer but it doesn't quite do enough to make itself great. Considering the team mechanic doesn't bring much new to the table, I wish we got Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed 2 instead.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 29 Critic Score
    Blood & Truth's story is about as gripping as trying to hold onto a bowling ball with greased up hands and its gameplay doesn't do much to make up for that. Add in a bunch of glitches and goofy moments and you're left with one disappointing VR experience.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    As a fan of retro turn-based strategy RPGs, I'm very impressed with Fell Seal: Arbiter's Mark as it really hits the nail on the head while also offering plenty of cool innovations to the classic genre. If you enjoy these kinds of games, you definitely need to play this epic SRPG.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 67 Critic Score
    Bubsy: Paws on Fire is a passable runner that will keep fans of the genre busy for a few hours yet it fails to live up to the far better runners that Choice Provisions have crafted in the past.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you want a simple 2D hack and slash action RPG then Lapis x Labyrinth is definitely a good game to wind down with after a long day. Just don't expect it to be particularly engaging, especially once the repetition starts to sink in.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Atelier Lulua is up there with the best that the series has to offer. Although it doesn't do anything exceptionally unique, it's an enjoyable and rewarding adventure set in such a memorable and charming world that you'll find it hard to put down.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    Undead Horde is a solid strategic combat dungeon crawler that you're sure to enjoy for a handful of hours. I wish it was a bit finer tuned before it released but it's still an ultimately satisfying and unique game.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 93 Critic Score
    With 8 classic games from an iconic series, Castlevania Anniversary Collection is a must-play compilation for any gamer whether you're a retro junkie or you simply want to explore the roots of gaming. If you'll excuse me, I have to slay Dracula for the umpteenth time.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    If you're in the market for a consistently immersive tale with gameplay that's filled with genuine tension then A Plague Tale: Innocence is a must-play game. Just be prepared for a few aspects to regularly take you out of the otherwise engaging adventure.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Although I'm not usually one for video game stories, Ghost Giant really captivated me with its lovely tale. On top of that, its world looks incredible in VR and the puzzling scenarios are quite enjoyable to master. I just wish that there was more to it.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you can get over the hurdle of its clunky interface then Darkest Hunters provides a unique and fun strategic RPG puzzler.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you're the kind of gamer who enjoys getting high scores in unique arcade experiences then you should give Dig Dog a try.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It may seem like just another walking sim at first but Unknown Fate contains plenty of memorable moments set in a haunting world.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    In such an underrepresented genre, Strike Suit Zero certainly stands out and being able to play it on the Switch is very cool.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    There may be many twin-stick roguelikes but very few are as enjoyable as Blazing Beaks with its charming visuals and tight gameplay.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Black Paradox may not be the biggest shmup out there but it plays so well that it's hard to put down once you pick it up.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you're satisfied with a basic Mega Man style 2D retro throwback then you can definitely have some fun with Venture Kid.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Ghost 1.0 is an exciting action game with a robust Metroidvania world to explore. I wasn't terribly engaged by any of the characters or its storyline but it's still an easy recommendation for anyone looking for some fun 2D combat.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Puyo Puyo Champions offers familiar and fun competitive puzzle gameplay with a huge selection of delightful characters. That being said, the overall lack of substantial content and options makes it a somewhat limiting experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 66 Critic Score
    Petoons Party is an enjoyable and lighthearted mini-game fest that's a lot of fun in short bursts. Although its board game setup is exceptional, the lack of mini-games makes it rather repetitive after playing for about an hour or so.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice succeeds in its incredibly visceral combat and stealth all while being set in an engaging game world. However, its linear character growth options and repetitive combat begin to dull the experience after you get over the initial hump.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 67 Critic Score
    Giga Wrecker Alt. is an exceptionally unique game that expertly combines action and puzzles. However, the fact that its gameplay simply doesn't accommodate for what it's trying to accomplish makes it an often irritating and disjointed experience.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 53 Critic Score
    As the final DLC pack, Mother Protector won't blow you away but it does a good job of tying up one of the loose ends in the main story and offers a fun decently-sized puzzle to solve, too.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Days Gone is an exceptionally refined and gorgeous open-world action adventure game. It doesn't bring a whole lot new to the table but what it does offer is hours upon hours of exciting gameplay and a layered (albeit often overly verbose) narrative.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 69 Critic Score
    SteamWorld Quest may feature a charming cast of characters and an enjoyable battle system but its overall lack of variety and drab dungeons make it a tough game to universally recommend. If you want a top-notch RPG then play SteamWorld Heist instead.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    It's been a long time since the original Phoenix Wright games released so this is the perfect excuse to play through them again and re-experience the thrill of each case. Also, the updated presentation is handled so well that it feels like a brand new collection of games.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    If you're as much of a Konami shoot 'em up fan as I am then you'll have an enjoyable time with Arcade Classics Anniversary Collection. However, don't expect a ton of options and refinement before diving into this retro gaming compilation.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 72 Critic Score
    Cuphead is a stunning game that truly stands out from its peers on a presentational level. That being said, its gameplay doesn't do anything particularly unique and its difficulty is implemented in a way that it basically requires fruitless repetition.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    The Division 2 is jam-packed with things to do and it does an excellent job of rewarding you with exciting loot. Just make sure to join up with other agents as traveling the streets of DC alone can be both dull and excessively difficult.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    God's Trigger is the best twin-stick shooter that I've ever played. With tons of variety and cooperative gameplay that's as rewarding as it is exhilarating, I simply can't recommend this indie masterpiece highly enough.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 55 Critic Score
    I wanted to enjoy Truberbrook but mediocre frustrating gameplay can only be helped so much by amazing art. I can only recommend it to people who absolutely love point and click games and don't mind being bogged down by major gameplay issues.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    If you like playing games with a local chum and have a soft spot for goofy humour then Fun! Fun! Animal Park will make a solid addition to your gaming library. It's too bad that more than 2 players can't enjoy it together.
    • 71 Metascore
    • 71 Critic Score
    In the end, Labo VR is a promising new concept for Switch gamers. It could definitely use more and higher quality games at this point in time but there's no denying that it works well and opens the doors to more unique experiences on the Switch.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Puzzle fans who enjoy careful planning in order to master tricky stages will get a kick out of SlabWell: The Quest For Kaktun's Alpaca.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're in the market for a unique racing game and have a soft spot for marble-rolling then you'll have a blast with Mindball Play.
    • 54 Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Feather is the gaming equivalent of an ASMR video. Some folks will dig it while others will wonder why it even exists.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Although it has a slow start, Hob: The Definitive Edition opens up into a fruitful and unforgettable journey with solid gameplay.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Run 'n' gun fans who are intrigued with the idea of a collection of thrilling boss fights need to play Mechstermination Force.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    Earth Defense Force: Iron Rain is definitely a very different experience to past games in the series. Fans will likely not appreciate many of the changes although the more focused combat makes for a rather satisfying challenge.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    As far as local multiplayer games go, Skorecery is definitely one that you'd want to add to your playlist but it won't be the main event.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If Vaporum was more optimized for consoles then it would have been a must-play dungeon crawler. With that being said, it's still worthwhile if you're willing to adapt to its unintuitive controls and menus.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    War Theatre made me initially hesitant but once I got to grips with its challenging and rewarding gameplay, I was hooked.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you're in the market for a competitive online VR shooter then Space Junkies may be worth getting if you don't mind its simplicity.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    When it comes to PlayStation VR games, you can't get much more unique or enjoyable than Bow to Blood: Last Captain Standing.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Gamers who like the idea of a simple Burnout game without many bells and whistles will have a good time with Dangerous Driving.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If you love Mega Man and want to play an indie interpretation of the series then you can't go wrong with the surprisingly solid Metagal.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    Zanki Zero is a fun dungeon crawler set in the remains of Earth after a catastrophic event took place with a plot that feels like it belongs in the Danganronpa series. The story and gameplay will keep you curious for most of the campaign, especially if you're comfortable with the inherently disturbing subject matter and occasionally frustrating dungeon traversal.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    When it comes to retro arcade games, Gain Ground is definitely on the niche side of the equation. So, if you're looking for a unique old-school arcade experience then you may get a kick out of booting this gem up but don't expect it to blow you away.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Long-time Sega fans who have fond memories of the mid-'80s will love rediscovering Alex Kidd in Miracle World. That being said, it certainly won't convert any non-fans as it simply hasn't aged as well as many other retro 2D platformers.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    As someone who loves retro RPGs yet has never played Phantasy Star before, I'm amazed at how great of a game it is. When you factor in all of the awesome additions in this Sega Ages release, it's a definite must-buy for old-school RPG fans.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    On top of Sonic the Hedgehog being a fantastic classic platformer, this Sega Ages version includes many cool new modes and options that make replaying it feel fresh and exciting again.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Alwa's Awakening offers a solid challenge and a great sense of exploration which makes it a satisfying experience. However, it's unfortunately dulled by mundane combat and an overall feeling of sluggishness when it comes to movement and platforming.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    After having a few laughs at the utter ridiculousness of it all, it's difficult to thoroughly enjoy the irritating gameplay of Safety First!
    • 59 Metascore
    • 20 Critic Score
    Considering Hotline Miami is a widely available and far superior game, why anyone would want to play 12 is Better Than 6 is beyond me.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    Those looking for a unique skill-testing arcade-style game could have half an hour or so of fun with Neon Caves but that's about it.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 40 Critic Score
    The chaotic real-time action of Dungeons & Aliens is fun for a short while but it slowly devolves into a frustrating mess.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    If it weren't for its reliance on trial and error, Golf Peaks would be a top-notch puzzle game but it's still definitely worth checking out.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Overall, gamers looking for a simple yet challenging stage-based puzzler will surely experience a lot of enjoyment in SpellKeeper.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you're a shoot 'em up fan then you'll find a lot to love about AngerForce: Reloaded's tight retro gameplay that actually feels fresh.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    The original Darksiders remains the best in the series and this Warmastered Edition is an incredible way to enjoy the timeless classic. If you still haven't played it yet then you owe it to yourself to unsheathe your Chaoseater and rip through some demons.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The Grand Caiman DLC contains a visually impressive challenge tomb with a decent amount of difficulty. It's one of the shortest packs so far but as it keeps things interesting throughout the side mission and adds a little to the story, I still recommend it.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Operencia: The Stolen Sun is a top-notch old-school dungeon crawler that modernizes the genre in impressive ways. If you enjoy these sorts of challenging retro RPGs then you definitely won't be disappointed with this massive and memorable adventure.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Yoshi's Crafted World is one of the cutest games that you'll ever play but it's incredibly easy to the point where it becomes unengaging. That being said, the amount of variety and replay value is top-notch and that makes the familiar gameplay really shine.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    As an Atelier fan, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Nelke & the Legendary Alchemists: Ateliers of the New World. The fact that it features oodles of characters from a huge franchise of games is exceptional and its rewarding gameplay is a treat, too.
    • 66 Metascore
    • 41 Critic Score
    In the end, at least Windscape's graphics are fairly snazzy and you get a super-cool shield to pair with your weapons when you craft them. The maintenance wrench actually has moving parts and the shield that it comes with has a giant gear around it that moves in sync with the wrench. If the entire game had that level of love and finesse, it could have been a real gem.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 64 Critic Score
    There's no denying that Xenon Racer is a very promising drift-focused racing game but it doesn't quite reach the high notes that its inspirations achieved 20 or so years ago. As a result, you'll be better off booting up your PS1 and replaying some classics.
    • 69 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    MX vs ATV All Out certainly isn't for everyone but it does offer a lot of fun for those who enjoy practicing their off-road racing skills. Plus, the amount of content in this massive Anniversary Edition makes it a rather appealing and comprehensive package.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 91 Critic Score
    Blaster Master Zero was a phenomenal remake of an 8-bit classic so being able to finally enjoy a true sequel is an absolute treat. If you're up for a challenging and rewarding retro experience then playing Blaster Master Zero 2 is a must.
    • 53 Metascore
    • 63 Critic Score
    If you'd like to have some co-op first-person shooting fun with a friend either locally or online then you can have a few hours of fun with RICO. After that, it'll likely overstay its welcome with its simple gameplay and tiresome structure.
    • 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.
    • 58 Metascore
    • 68 Critic Score
    One Piece: World Seeker features impressively rewarding exploration that'll have you immersed in its beautiful and expansive world. That being said, the combat falls flat and tedium will rear its ugly head much sooner than you'd expect.
    • 60 Metascore
    • 73 Critic Score
    Claybook deserves a lot of credit for being as unique and enjoyable as it is. Even though it doesn't quite feel like a fully fleshed out experience yet, I hope to see a sequel that really runs with its clever concepts.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 66 Critic Score
    Casting gesture-based spells is a great concept for a VR game but ensuring that the gestures register properly can make The Wizards: Enhanced Edition an irritating experience. That being said, it can be quite fun if you're willing to adapt to its frustrating aspects.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 87 Critic Score
    Although it doesn't take full advantage of what the 3DS is capable of, Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn is a must-have portable version of a top-notch Wii game complete with plenty of impressive extra content that complements an already great 2D platformer.
    • 63 Metascore
    • 47 Critic Score
    The Occupation is a classic example of a concept with great promise but poor execution. The massive amount of bugs that hamper progress and the lack of a proper stealth system constantly get in the way of being able to enjoy this admittedly unique experience.
    • 57 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I don't care what anyone else says, The Lego Movie 2 Videogame is a ton of fun. With a spot-on blend of familiar Lego gameplay, open-world environments, and an assortment of awesome gadgets; what's not to love?
    • tbd Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    The Walking Vegetables: Radical Edition may feature generic twin-stick shooting gameplay but its '80s aesthetic makes it feel unique.
    • 86 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Assault Android Cactus was an incredible game when it released a few years ago and it's just as great now with a few extras, too.
    • 61 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    It may not be the most original or rewarding game out there but Treasure Stack is certainly a solid and fun competitive puzzler.
    • 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.

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