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
    • 69 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I'm very happy that Super Bomberman R 2 is here and its highly strategic Castle mode is simply one of the best innovations that the series has ever seen. In addition to that, the single player component is brimming with rewarding content that'll keep lone wolves entertained for hours while the multiplayer element is as frantic and fun as it's ever been. It definitely lit my fuse; that's for sure.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Just when I thought Earth Defense Force was becoming stale, World Brothers came along and renewed my faith in the franchise. Its bright voxel visuals act as the perfect reflection of its improved and varied gameplay as well as its excellent sense of humour.
    • 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.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Arc System Works are masters of crafting excellent 2D fighting games and Dragon Ball FighterZ is no exception. Its accessible yet rewarding fighting mechanics and stunning graphics definitely make it the first must-have fighter of 2018.
    • 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.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I'm thoroughly impressed with Wavetale as it completely surpassed my expectations by being one of the most beautifully captivating indies that I've ever played. Even though it's a tad short, I can definitely see myself playing through it again and again.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Rise of the Ronin is a great action-packed open-world experience that starts very strong but as time goes on, it definitely starts to become repetitious; mostly due to its lack of variety and memorable boss fights. It's still generally a lot of fun, though.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    If you love SRPGs as much as I do then you'll have an excellent time with Langrisser I & II. It's impressive how well both games have held up over the years and the fact that it has an option to make them accessible for genre newcomers is a great addition.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Its memorable cast of characters and refined gameplay make it a fantastic experience that ties up the Dusk trilogy wonderfully.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Survival Kids may just be my new go-to co-op game thanks to its multiplayer-focused elements that really come together beautifully whenever you're playing with a friend. With lovely sights, charming characters, a silly narrator, and spot-on sound effects, it's a treat to watch, too.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    It may not feature every classic game in the series but Space Invaders Invincible Collection is still bursting with retro fun. Whether you're enjoying the original, trying out the modern titles, or competing with a friend in Space Invaders DX; you're bound to have a blast.
    • 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.
    • 59 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I don't care what anyone else thinks; I absolutely love Yars Rising. With its clever Atari game references, awesome characters, fun hacking challenges, catchy music, and the fact that it feels like a Mega Man Metroidvania, it's a game specifically made for folks like me.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a classic puzzle detective game from the makers of the Phoenix Wright series and it's absolutely packed with humour, satisfying puzzles, and colourful characters that you'll get to know well throughout its complex supernatural story.
    • 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
    • 81 Critic Score
    Visions of Mana is a whimsical adventure that's filled with character and beautiful sights. I took great pleasure in traversing its colourful world and even though it doesn't do anything particularly revolutionary, it's sure to melt your heart as you play.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Taiko no Tatsujin: Drum Session! is focused on what makes the franchise enjoyable: its distinct take on rhythm gameplay. It may not have all sorts of extra mini-games and such but what's here is still a stellar entry in Namco's long-running series.
    • 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.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Donkey Kong Bananza: DK Island & Emerald Rush is such an exciting chunk of DLC that breathes new life into an already incredible experience. From chilling at DK Island to frantically punching everything in sight during Emerald Rush, you'll have a barrel of fun.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The Lonesome Guild is one of my favourite indie games of the year with its heartfelt story, well-balanced blend of action and puzzles, and delightful visuals that beautifully tie it all together. You're sure to think fondly back on your adventure for years to come.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    RAILGRADE is a superb sim that acts more like a logic puzzle game in many of its more elaborate scenarios. So, if you enjoy tinkering with routes and managing resources for optimal efficiency then you'll have a great time with this choo-choo.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Vasara Collection contains 2 incredibly fun classic shoot 'em ups that aren't very well known which makes this collection even more worthwhile. So, if you're an arcade shooter fan then buying this compilation should be a no-brainer.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Sturmwind EX is one of the best shmups available for modern consoles. It's clear that a lot of love and attention went into every detail of its gameplay and world and the result is one refined and super-satisfying arcade experience.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The Disney Afternoon Collection is yet another fantastic six-pack of 8-bit Capcom classics. Playing through these adventures is such great fun that I'm looking forward to seeing what retro gems Capcom puts together for their next compilation.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    If you enjoyed Trails from Zero then naturally, The Legend of Heroes: Trails to Azure should be next on your list of games to play. With its familiar world, cast of characters, and gameplay albeit with a few minor twists; this is one epic RPG that you're sure to love.
    • 90 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    This latest Animal Crossing delivers the same charm and laidback fun that fans love. Plus, it provides more structure with its nifty Nook Miles system. In the end, this is a game that you'll be glad to pick up and play in short bursts for weeks, months, or even years.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    SkyDrift Infinity is such a fun and challenging racer that it makes me wonder why there aren't more games like it. I'm very happy that they resurrected it from the PlayStation 3 graveyard and hope to see more gems from that era resurface.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I'm stoked that Mushihimesama is at long last available on console in the west as it's one hell of a great shoot 'em up. Here's hoping this means that the superior sequel Mushihimesama Futari will be on its way to Switch in the near future.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Although you may not have heard of it, Money Puzzle Exchanger is nothing short of a classic competitive puzzler. Its addictive gameplay and lively atmosphere make it a great game to pick up and play whenever you're in the mood for some puzzle fun.
    • 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.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Guntech 2 is an indie hidden gem that deserves a lot of attention so if you enjoy physics-based twin-stick shooting in space then you'll love everything that it has to offer. Just play it with eye protection on because its many explosions may singe your corneas.
    • 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.
    • 76 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Ever Oasis has a charming, varied, and colourful world to explore with many characters who join you on your journey to safeguard your newfound home once and for all. If you're a fan of action-packed adventures, you can't go wrong with this adorable pocket-sized tale.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    With its variety of shoot 'em ups and cooperative arcade funfests, Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 is a superb collection that retro enthusiasts will love. Even without many extras, there are so many clever options and ways to play and it's all emulated exceptionally well.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Moomintroll: Winter's Warmth is an adorable and nostalgic tale of how unforgiving deep winter can be but how with friends, you can make the most of it until spring comes around.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Don't let its strange premise fool you; if you're a fan of Metroidvania games then Rabi-Ribi is a must-play game. The combination of fantastic 2D action, satisfying exploration, and lighthearted charm makes it a wholly enjoyable bunny-filled adventure.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Bounty Star is one of the most impressive games of the year with its unique and entertaining mech combat as well as its more personal touches that'll make you feel a strong sense of personal growth as you complete bounty after bounty.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Fighting your way through a jungle filled with lighthearted hilarity, tight combat, varied builds, and rewarding unlockables makes Dunjungle stand out as one of the best 2D action platformer roguelikes. So, go monkey around, chums.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Grand Mountain Adventure Wonderlands is one of those indies that's far better than you'd imagine. With an open-ended campaign that you'll relish exploring while finding the next suitable challenge, the hours will pass on by as your skills become better and better.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Coral Island is a carefree island farming sim with a lot of charm set in a vibrant world. It borrows quite heavily from similar games yet it also manages to forge its own identity and throw in a bunch of fresh concepts, too.
    • 68 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Minor annoyances aside, Yooka-Laylee is a solid 3D buddy platformer that's full of variety, humour, and a fantastic cast of characters all wrapped in a laid back adventure. Who knew a chameleon and a bat could have so much fun together?
    • 70 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    to a T really connected with me and lifted my spirits during a particularly rough time. If you sometimes struggle in life and especially if you're disabled, I sincerely can't recommend this adorable, silly, and heartwarming game enough.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I had a great time playing SONIC X SHADOW GENERATIONS with its modern adaptation of a genuine classic and its super-fun new campaign featuring Shadow the Hedgehog. This is such a bountiful package that any Sonic fan will absolutely love.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I had a blast with ChainStaff in all of its disgustingly gruesome action-packed glory; it's indie 2D action at its most ridiculous and I love it.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden surpassed my expectations thanks to its incredible sense of exploration, gripping story, and gorgeously-presented characters. Sure, it's easy but the adventure is still well-worth going on for any curious ghost hunters out there.
    • 88 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Pistol Whip is a top-notch VR game and one that's 100% worth getting for fans of rail shooters. Its stylish visuals and clever scoring system make it an immersive and challenging experience that's hard to put down once you get into the groove.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Raiden IV x MIKADO remix takes a wonderful sequel that's full of arcade shooting fun and adds a stellar new soundtrack. Plus, the fact that you get everything that was in previous Raiden IV iterations is just peachy.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Arcade sports games aren't as plentiful as they once were so the fact that NBA 2K Playgrounds 2 is as enjoyable as it is speaks volumes for what the genre is capable of. Plus, those who played the original are sure to appreciate its additions and refined visuals.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Fast Fusion offers a lot of fast-paced fun and is a great showcase for the power of Nintendo Switch 2 with its selection of stunning courses.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    KASIORI is not only one of the best competitive puzzlers that I've ever played; it's also the funniest game that I've enjoyed in a very long time. So, what are you waiting for? Goddamn, Let's have a match to shatter the pancake mood.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    My hat is off to Spearhead Games. They managed to improve upon the formula that they established with Stories: The Path of Destinies to craft a far superior experience with Omensight. I wish more game developers would grow and learn as much as they did.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    I enjoyed my time with Fairy Elements so much that if someone told me that they're looking for an old-school RPG, it would be an easy recommendation. With tons of content and a challenging strategic battle system, there's a lot to love.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot may not have the deepest combat mechanics but there's no denying just how exciting it is to play. From its jaw-dropping action to its top-notch presentation, this is one epic RPG that fans and newcomers alike can easily enjoy.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is an adorable feast for the eyes and food for the soul that will make you laugh from beginning to end. Hopefully, it has set the stage for a more substantial sequel in the future.
    • 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.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Super Farming Boy is one of my new favourite indie games with its adorable visuals and super-rewarding gameplay where strategically placing crops will make you feel like a farming legend who may just be capable enough to save their mom and friends.
    • 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.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    With its brilliant stage designs, adorable presentation, and welcome new ability, Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is the most amount of fun I've had monkeying around since the original debuted.
    • 67 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a cooperative twin-stick shooter then you can't do much better than Nine Parchments. The fantastical world and challenging yet rewarding gameplay is perfect for having a magical time with a few chums by your side.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    If you're looking for a highly enjoyable experience that's undoubtedly something different, Desperados III will provide hours of gunslinging good times. Plus, those who enjoy perfecting their strategies as they take a trial and error approach will absolutely love it.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Playing Terra Trilogy took me back to a time when simply improving your skills and achieving higher and higher scores made for a highly entertaining gaming experience. If you also love this old-school approach to gaming, you definitely need this in your collection.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Dungeons 4 is chock full of challenging real-time strategy scenarios that are bursting with variety and oodles of humour. It all adds up to a wonderful experience that this game-playing Evil highly recommends to anyone who loves to be bad.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    When it comes to rewarding dungeon exploration, you can't do much better than Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth. Even with its frustrating aspects, what's here is a treat for gamers who love old-school dungeon-crawling adventures.
    • 72 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Dead or Alive 6 improves on the franchise's core fighting system while retaining its tight action-packed gameplay. Although it could definitely use more content, what's here makes for a more than promising start.
    • 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.
    • 73 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Mages of Mystralia's combat and puzzles are enjoyable and the unique spell crafting system allows for a nearly endless amount of customization. The lack of robust fast traveling may bog the backtracking down but not enough to dampen Zia's grand adventure.
    • 64 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Although the first game received a more substantial upgrade, FRONT MISSION 2: Remake is still a must-have SRPG for fans of the genre and at its core; it remains the superior of the 2 titles despite some minor missteps with the update.
    • 78 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    CRISIS CORE -FINAL FANTASY VII- REUNION is one of the best remasters out there thanks to its complete presentational overhaul and when you have such a great base game to work with, you're left with an action RPG that even rivals modern examples of the genre.
    • 87 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening was a wonderful game when it first released and this new Switch version may not deviate much from the original but it definitely looks and sounds great. The few sprinkles of additional content add some much-needed value, too.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    ChromaGun 2: Dye Hard is a first-person puzzle game that combines so many enjoyable mechanics in such clever ways that it presents a constantly rewarding campaign where you'll always look forward to what's to come.
    • 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.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Agents of Mayhem may not be the best open world action game but it is full of awesome gameplay, satisfying exploration, and diverse characters that help keep the experience fresh. In the end, Volition tried something new and it definitely paid off.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Wanderstop is a lesson in stopping to smell the roses and how important it is to look inwards when faced with life's difficulties. Its mixture of lighthearted humour and tranquil themes will leave any player feeling more relaxed after each gaming session.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Ariana and the Elder Codex is a gorgeous game that's full of so many unique spells and enemies that you'll constantly be excited to uncover more of its lovely game world as you power-up and become the swankiest librarian in the realm.
    • 77 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Its stylish visuals and slick gameplay make The Pathless stand out as a truly epic experience. If the concept of whipping around massive intricate environments at ridiculous speeds while solving puzzles and taking down bosses appeals to you then definitely check it out.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Hokko Life takes the Animal Crossing formula and builds on it with additional gameplay elements and an innovative in-game clock. Its gameplay is addictive and there's a lot of fun to be had, especially if you enjoy crafting. So, if you're looking for a rewarding alternative to the Nintendo classic albeit with more to do on any given day then you should definitely pick it up.
    • 79 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    Puzzle Bobble Everybubble! marks a great return for the iconic series. It may take a few missteps with some minor gameplay elements but what's here still provides a superb collection of bubble-bursting fun that you can easily enjoy with friends.
    • 75 Metascore
    • 81 Critic Score
    The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails brought me back to the wonderful PSP days and for that, I feel indebted to this fantastic gem from that era. Throw in excellent gameplay, an undeniably charming world, and oodles of cleverly designed levels and you're left with one great action RPG. Just keep in mind that its story is nowhere near as epic as the Trails in its title may lead you to believe.
    • 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
    • 81 Critic Score
    Baseless is one of the best indie games of the year with its unconventional and well thought-out gameplay complete with many facets that'll keep you pushing your skills further and further. It looks lovely to boot and how cute are those scarves?
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    LIT: Bend the Light takes a familiar puzzle formula and fleshes it out in such clever ways that you'll end up enjoying it for a very long time.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Fans of unconventional arcade-style experiences will love what GORSD has to offer, especially if they plan on playing it with friends.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Toodee and Topdee is a brilliant puzzle platformer that joins Tandem: A Tale of Shadows in a unique genre that I'd like to see more of.
    • 80 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Those who enjoy 3D platformers with a twist will love their time with Arise: A Simple Story and its gorgeous world.
    • 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.
    • 62 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Tools Up! may be a bit unpolished but it's fun enough to receive the couch co-op torch from genre greats like Overcooked.
    • 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.
    • 74 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sega Ages: Columns II contains much more than its title would suggest. If you enjoy retro puzzlers, you'll sink hours into this release as it contains plenty of fantastic content that showcases the addictive core gameplay beautifully.
    • 85 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It takes a little while to grow on you but once you get in the groove, Symphonia will quickly become one of your favourite platformers.
    • 81 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Sine Mora EX builds upon the original game by offering some truly innovative multiplayer aspects. Besides that, the shooting action is as stellar as ever so if you've never played the original then this is definitely a shmup that you need to check out.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    The combat in Immortal Planet is so satisfying that it's a must-have for any Souls fan, especially if you want a retro take on the formula.
    • 70 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    When it comes to chaotic mini-game fun, Ichidant-R provides such great times that I hope to see the other Puzzle & Action arcade games (Tant-R and Sand-R) get Sega Ages releases sometime soon.
    • 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.
    • 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.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I have a big soft spot for trains and puzzle games and Locomotion combines both into a very innovative and enjoyable campaign.
    • 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.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    Who knew that caring for pets in a VR clinic could be this entertaining? Pets & Stuff is such an adorable game and I give it 2 paws up.
    • 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.
    • 84 Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    It may be cute and simple but Fantasy Zone remains one of the most enjoyable shoot 'em ups with its distinctly rewarding gameplay.
    • tbd Metascore
    • 80 Critic Score
    I had a very fun time tinkering with a variety of menacing machines in Besiege. It's quite a clever and cathartic experience.

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