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
    • 83 Metascore
    • 75 Critic Score
    Even though it's a bit of a disappointment, there's no denying that Yakuza 6: The Song of Life is a solid entry in Sega's epic series. Both fans and newcomers alike will find a lot to love about Kiryu's latest (and possibly final) kick ass adventure.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    Kirby and the Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World takes an already awesome game and makes it even better. From the lovely and challenging Star-Crossed World levels to all-new challenges and adorable collectibles, it's a real mouthful.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster is the sort of game that becomes better the more you play it so if this is your first time playing it or you haven't played it for years, bring plenty of patience with you and you'll end up having a phenomenal trip to the mall.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The mix of gameplay elements in Battle Chef Brigade creates one delicious dish that'll surely leave a delightful taste in your mouth.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    If you enjoy rhythm games or are simply curious about the genre then I highly recommend playing Groove Coaster: Wai Wai Party!!!! From its amazing music to its challenging yet intuitive gameplay, it's a prime example of what the genre is capable of.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Hatsune Miku Logic Paint S is the best classic-style Picross game that I've ever played thanks to its cheerful presentation, streamlined gameplay, ridiculous amount of puzzles, and rewarding unlockables. If you're a Hatsune Miku or Picross fan, it's a must-play.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    As a fan of Demon Turf, the platforming-focused Neon Splash made me very happy. I hope to see much more of Beebz down the road.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Wave 6 of Mario Kart 8's Booster Course Pass is full of lovely familiar tracks along with a couple of fantastic European adventures and the cozy new Piranha Plant Cove. It's a great way to end the pass and I don't want to sound greedy but now I want more.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Earthion is a modern shoot 'em up throwback that does an exceptional job of embodying what made the 16-bit era so special for the genre.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Ys X: Proud Nordics is the same great game with extra content that adds a lot of value and rewarding challenges for those who master its memorable seafaring campaign. It may have released a bit too soon but what's here is excellent stuff regardless.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Under The Island is an adorable, challenging, and silly action adventure game that's packed with variety and secrets to uncover. Great stuff.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    3D platformers don't get much more relaxing or stylish than Gecko Gods and for that, it really stands out as something quite special.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Triangle Strategy masterfully accomplishes its blend of rewarding SRPG gameplay and engaging choice-driven story. If you're a fan of narrative-heavy games and tactical grid-based battles then it's a must-have game.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    OlliOlli may be a tricky series to master but it's very rewarding to do so. Plus, this Switch Stance bundle is the best way to play it so far.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Moss: Book II does an excellent job of building on the established formula of the first game while offering a much more diverse game world and a pitch-perfect blend of puzzles, platforming, and combat. However, it's still somewhat short and unsatisfyingly unchallenging.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Catering to both 2D action enthusiasts and casual gamers alike, Astral Ascent is a roguelike that anyone can thoroughly enjoy.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Gris doesn't offer anything particularly exciting gameplay-wise but its awe-inspiring world will be more than enough to suck you in.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Super Mega Baseball 3 proves that arcade baseball can be authentic while also catering to casual fans of the sport. From its plentiful customization options and in-depth mechanics that you can either choose to master or not; this is truly a baseball game for everyone.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    SteamWorld Heist II builds upon the original in many clever ways to create a sequel that's a ton of fun even 8 whopping years after the first game debuted. Be sure to play it but don't sail in my part of the seas or I may have to take your hat.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    STORY OF SEASONS: Grand Bazaar is an adorable and fun farming sim and the bazaar portion adds an extra layer of enjoyable variety.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    If I were to rank the Xenoblade games then I would say Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a step below the original yet a more rewarding experience than Xenoblade Chronicles X. Either way you look at it, what's here is a memorable and impressively epic tale filled with optimism and that's just what the world needs now.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    Advance Wars 1 and 2 are timeless classics and I know those are big words but these games are deserving of that honour. I was obsessed with Advance Wars 2 back in the day and now, I'm loving the franchise yet again. Plus, fans of the series can rest easy knowing that Nintendo hasn't abandoned the Advance Wars franchise and it makes me wonder what's next.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    Playing Superhot is probably the closest I'll ever come to feeling like James Bond. I've never experienced anything quite like throwing an empty weapon at an enemy, knocking their weapon out of their hands, grabbing it in midair, and then shooting them with it. If that sounds awesome to you (and why wouldn't it?) then make sure to give Superhot a try.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Heaven Dust 2 is perhaps the most amount of fun that I've had with a survival horror game in decades. Its retro sensibilities are absolutely spot-on. Plus, the rewarding campaign structure and intuitive combat that requires some strategy make it truly stand out.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I've never played anything quite like The Last Clockwinder and it truly knocked my socks off with its clever take on factory-building.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    If you've ever wanted to play the first 3 Seiken Densetsu games in a comprehensive compilation then Collection of Mana is definitely worth purchasing. Just don't expect many bells and whistles.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    I had a lovely time with Two Point Museum and it's clearly the best, most refined, and unique game in the series so far. It's so great that I'm super-excited to see what's next and how it could possibly top the exhibits on display here.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Pokemon Legends: Arceus definitely provides a great experience with a novel take on the classic franchise but I still feel that grinding is not needed in a Pokemon game which I've always felt should primarily be about simply having fun in a laidback world.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even if you own Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on a dozen consoles, playing it again on Switch is worth it for the few extras and portability.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Blade Chimera is one of the best Metroidvanias that you can play thanks to its jam-packed gameplay, stellar presentation, and rewarding supplementary content. It may not be the longest or most challenging game in the genre but it's definitely unforgettable.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I had such a lovely time playing through the puzzling scenarios within Planet of Lana II that I know I'll still think fondly back on it for years.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    The graphical upgrade and streamlined gameplay of DRAGON QUEST VII Reimagined provide a breath of fresh air that do a great job of making this classic RPG appeal to both new and familiar audiences.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 86 Critic Score
    Killer Queen Black is a wonderful adaptation of the modern arcade game. If you're a fan of unique online multiplayer experiences and frantic 2D action, it's a definite must-play game.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 90 Critic Score
    With the core games being as stellar as they are, the fact that Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack has so many additions, refinements, and included DLC is just awesome. This may very well be the most jam-packed RPG trilogy in all of gaming and it's all just so delightful.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    If you love playing online co-op games then Deep Rock Galactic will knock your little dwarf socks off with its rewarding gameplay loop, variety of fun gadgets, and satisfying sense of comradery. Rock and Stone!
    • 83 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Buried Stars will challenge you to solve mysteries while trapped in a collapsing studio with a few survivors as you struggle to build rapport and maintain your own sanity. Overall, it's a gripping story that will have you replaying until you reach its ultimate conclusion.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    WitchSpring R is a delightful turn-based RPG with oodles of heart and humour and an enjoyable battle system to boot. It stumbles in a few areas and lacks balance but this sweet treat will still be a delicious addition to any RPG fan's library.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 89 Critic Score
    Yoku's Island Express is the best indie game that I've played this year so far. Who would've guessed that Metroidvania pinball would be such an addictive and enjoyable formula? Factor in the delightful visuals and sound and you're left with a must-have adventure.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is one of the best action-packed combat-heavy roguelikes you can play and with hearty challenge to spare.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Iconoclasts is an action-packed and gorgeous game that offers some great puzzles and exciting boss fights. An overly long script and some unlikable characters make the story less enjoyable but not enough to dampen Robin's robust and exciting adventure.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Competitive 2D platforming fans will absolutely love Move or Die. The amount of variety and constant fun is unmatched in the genre.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Reventure is quite possibly the funniest game that I've played all year and there's some highly enjoyable gameplay here, too.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Although Disgaea 4 Complete+ isn't a substantial upgrade to the previous iteration, what's here is still a fantastic SRPG. Therefore, if you don't already own it and are a genre fan then I recommend picking up a copy.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Mastering Kombinera requires precision and careful planning which makes it a great time trial game complete with plenty of replay value.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The clever mix of SRPG and puzzle elements makes Captain Velvet Meteor: The Jump+ Dimensions a supremely entertaining adventure.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    With a vast collection of included games and a great deal of historic documents, Llamasoft: The Jeff Minter Story is a treasure trove.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Lynked: Banner of the Spark is an excellent game for co-op hack and slash action that features so many elements, it'll make your head spin.
    • 83 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    GRIME II is a strange-looking game and as you play it, you'll find yourself immersed knee-deep in its alien world filled with unique challenges.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Islets keeps things simple with its Metroidvania formula yet it accomplishes its satisfying gameplay so exceptionally well that it's hard to stop playing it once you start. Plus, watching the islands come together has to be one of the most rewarding mechanics in the genre.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I had an exceptional amount of fun with HELLDIVERS 2 and will happily boot it up whenever I want to experience some frantic co-op shooting action. Throw in a superb sense of humour and oodles of rewarding unlockables and you're left with a cape-worthy offering.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 77 Critic Score
    Simply put, Super Hydorah is a must-buy game if you're a hardcore retro shoot 'em up fan. That being said, it certainly lacks wide appeal due to its insanely high difficulty so if you don't fit that description then it's sure to frustrate.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Laser League is like the world's most flavourful gum. When you start chewing, it tastes great but after about 15 minutes, you'll be happy to spit it out and put something more substantial in your mouth.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I enjoyed Another Crab's Treasure more than I thought I would thanks to its tight combat, sense of variety, and hilarious use of humour.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Exo One is a superbly engrossing and entertaining abstract adventure so if that's your kind of game then be sure to play it.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Two Point Campus is certainly a substantial step up from Two Point Hospital as it's a much smoother experience and features some undeniably nifty new mechanics. It goes without saying but if you enjoy these kinds of games then it's a definite must-play.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 76 Critic Score
    For a detective game, Lost Judgment presents an intriguingly complex story and a decent variety of gameplay and gadgets. However, it takes a long time to get interesting and the actual detective work is a bit too linear for hardcore mystery fans like me.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    Shadow of the Tomb Raider is definitely darker than its predecessor but that doesn't hurt its awe-inspiring setting, fun stealthy combat, oodles of rewarding collectibles, and suspenseful action that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
    • 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.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Flat Heroes is a surprisingly addictive hazard-dodging platformer but don't expect its multiplayer component to provide any more enjoyment than playing solo. If you're looking to test your 2D gaming skills then Flat Heroes surely won't disappoint.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Superhot: Mind Control Delete retains the classic's gameplay while offering plenty of fantastic twists and turns. However, that core gameplay simply doesn't cut the mustard like it did a few years ago.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    I'm a very happy shmup fan now that Espgaluda II is finally available for console in the west. With challenging action and complex mechanics that are rewarding to learn and master, its core gameplay has everything that genre enthusiasts would want.
    • 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.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    If you haven't played Ruiner yet then getting it on Switch is a must, especially if you enjoy dark, gritty, and action-packed indie games.
    • 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.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    As a huge fan of the original game, I'm amazed by how much more fun Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair is. It's a wonderful 2D platformer that provides plenty of challenge and completionists will spend a long time trying to unlock everything.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    If video games taught me anything, it's that senseless violence is fun. Okay, perhaps that isn't true but it's definitely the case in Hotline Miami. I just wish that this collection featured some extras to justify its re-release.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tadpole Treble Encore is a whimsical musical adventure that can easily appeal to gamers of all ages and skill levels.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Borderlands 3 definitely feels like a Borderlands game. Although it isn't a huge departure for the franchise, what's here still provides plenty of off-the-wall fun that should be very familiar to anyone who has previously dabbled in the series.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    Even as a huge fan of the series, I'm still in disbelief how incredible of a game Atelier Sophie 2: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Dream is. It's so jam-packed with outstanding gameplay and irresistible charm that it has single-handedly become the new gold standard for JRPGs.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    There are many excellent indie games recently and you can definitely add Dreamscaper to the list. With its pitch-perfect game world, highly rewarding gameplay loop, imaginative premise, and personal boss fights; you'll regret sleeping on this one.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 74 Critic Score
    Dark Souls III: The Ringed City is a worthwhile expansion for fans of the series but it also frequently devolves into a controller-throwing nightmare. That being said, it is a fitting final chapter of the Souls franchise but let's just hope that turns out not to be the case.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Even with decades of racing games behind us, Virtua Racing stands out as a super-fun racer that holds up wonderfully.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 92 Critic Score
    The Great Ace Attorney Chronicles is a collection of the best Ace Attorney games yet with a top-notch cast, loads of thrilling cases, and oodles of extras. On top of all that, multiple new gameplay elements reinvigorate the standard formula both in and out of court. In the end, this is a must-buy for fans of the series as well as anyone who enjoys solving a good mystery or 10.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    No VR game comes close to delivering as much action-packed combat as Sairento VR so sharpen your blade and get ready to fight.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2 is a worthy successor to the original and I'm very happy that Inti Creates and Koji Igarashi decided to make this sequel. With a cool co-op mode and a wonderful new cast of playable characters, it's one fun retro-inspired game.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Super Mario 3D All-Stars is brimming with charm and fun. It's surprising that these games released so long ago because they have held up beautifully and thoroughly prove Nintendo's brilliant level of creativity over the years. Here's hoping for many more games to come.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Splasher is an exciting, colorful, and challenging game that platforming aficionados need to check out. Completing it once is a monumental task on its own but the fast and fluid controls and clever level design make replaying and perfecting stages just as enjoyable.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Hitman 2 offers stellar stealth gameplay that lets you complete your goals in countless entertaining ways. The additional modes expand on this fun formula and I look forward to seeing more maps become available. In short, this is a must-buy game for genre fans.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    When it comes to indies, Bug Academy is definitely one of the most surprising. With varied and fun gameplay, I highly recommend it.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Few party games offer as much to the genre as Cake Bash does with its downright delightful aesthetic and highly enjoyable gameplay.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Gears 5: Hivebusters is a must-play for any fan of the series. From its dire situations to its jaw-dropping combat scenes, it's hard to pull yourself away from the action-packed campaign and once you've completed it, you'll gladly play through it again.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 82 Critic Score
    Take it from someone who doesn't usually enjoy unchallenging laidback adventures; OMNO is undoubtedly a wonderful experience. From its stylish visuals to its consistently rewarding collectibles and sense of progression, it really is the cat's pajamas.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 60 Critic Score
    Simply put, your enjoyment of Thumper will mostly rely on how much fun you have retrying the same segments over and over again. Although some folks like games that take this approach, I personally get tired of it fast so keep that in mind before taking the trip.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Parasol Stars: The Story of Bubble Bobble III is a must-play for any fan of arcade-style retro games, especially those who love co-op.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders presents a superb follow-up that makes hugging each corner and landing jumps an absolute joy.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Laika: Aged Through Blood caters to a hardcore audience in more ways than one but those who love it will certainly love it a lot.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It may not be what you'd expect from a Metroidvania yet Adventure of Samsara is jam-packed with retro challenge and rewarding exploration.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    Hands down, Slime-san is the best super-tough 2D platformer that I've ever played (yes, even better than Super Meat Boy). So, if you're looking for a new experience to test your gaming skills then you can't do much better than this.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 84 Critic Score
    If you're a fan of Spyro or 3D platformers in general then Spyro Reignited Trilogy is a must-play compilation. The amount of variety and charm contained within these 3 games is superb and each of them holds up beautifully today.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    A great mech combat game that boasts a surprisingly moody atmosphere while offering one of the most rewarding customisation components in all of gaming. So, definitely play it if you love tough combat and plenty of explosions.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 83 Critic Score
    It's hard to believe that a 3D action game as supremely enjoyable as Devil May Cry 3 released 15 years ago. It's a modern masterpiece that genre fans need to play even if they already have dozens of times before.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 85 Critic Score
    Super Mario Party Jamboree is definitely one of the best games in the entire franchise and my personal favourite one so far. If you're looking to have a party with local friends or online friends-to-be, be sure not to ignore your invite to this shindig.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 79 Critic Score
    Streets Of Rage 4 brings back the retro franchise in such a masterful way that it can convert modern gamers into hardcore fans of old-school beat 'em ups. With that said, it's still a bit too dated in some regards although it remains a heck of a lot of fun.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Spelunky is considered a classic roguelike for good reason. Its hazard-filled structure will have you constantly learning new tricks as you continue to progress further and further. In fact, it even remains superior to its recent sequel so I highly recommend giving it a go.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    As a collection for hardcore fans, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue offers a few entertaining experiences. For more casual fans, it's still worth picking up simply for the fantastic remake of Dream Drop Distance which is an incredibly fun game.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 78 Critic Score
    Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon brings back the essence of the 8-bit Castlevania games in a masterful way. Even though it's short and has its frustrating moments, long-time fans of the series will find a lot to love here.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    HITMAN World of Assassination VR provides so much familiar yet fresh gameplay that it's actually hard to go back to the non-VR version.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Don't let SOLAS 128's seemingly simple premise put you off; this is one fantastic indie puzzler that you'll want to see through to the end.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 70 Critic Score
    Lunistice provides a wonderful trip back to the golden era of 3D platformers and it features an impressive amount of replay value. It certainly isn't perfect but if you want to enjoy a solid throwback to the PS1 period then definitely give it a go.
    • 82 Metascore
    • 88 Critic Score
    Trails of Cold Steel III is a phenomenal RPG that genre fans need to play. After completing it and watching how it ends, I absolutely cannot wait to play the fourth and final game in this incredible series.

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