As a remake of one of my favorite games of all time, Persona 3 Reload had a lot more to live up to than it was reasonably expected to accomplish. Despite the lackluster PC port and not including all the desired content in the original package, P3R marks a significant improvement from the original across the board, providing the best way to experience this timeless tragedy for the first or fifth time.
Outside of [running into larger versions of enemies I'd already slain], I consider Rogue Legacy to be the most accessible and addictive roguelike I've played thus far and with the implementation of the cross-buy/save, it's the perfect time to pick up the sword and succeed where your ancestors have failed.
Overall, I found the journey into Fabletown a delight; filled with memorable characters built on a solid mechanical foundation, and while I believe there more to be done with the formula, it's the finest Telltale has made so far and well worth experiencing.
Saying that the wait has been long to finally get our hands on the Last Guardian is the understatement of the century, but I can state without hesitation that the wait has been more than worth it. The awe-inspiring living creature that is Trico carries this title, which would have otherwise just been a good puzzle platformer into an instant classic that I'm sure to visit time and time again, just to say hello to my new best buddy, one more time.
It's a no brainer for anyone who missed this gem of an SRPG when it first released and a worthwhile purchase even to those who have already experienced the original just to play through the new content.
The Fafnir Knight is a fantastic addition to the Etrian Odyssey name. It features the deep, satisfying dungeon crawling action fans of the series have come to expect, all the while allowing newcomers a multitude of options to tailor the experience to fit their skill level.
Bravely Second is a title that builds on the success of its predecessor without taking too many risks. There are only a handful of new mechanics and ideas present here, but as the original was brimming with so much innovation, I have a hard time holding it against the sequel for upholding the precedents made by its predecessor. In turn, it also stands amongst the best JRPGs on offer for the 3DS.
In the early hours of Trails of Cold Steel, I was skeptical that it could live up to the lofty standards set by Trails in the Sky. However, after my first year spent as a student of Class VII, I can confidently say that it has, and knowing that this is just the beginning of a new series fills me with great anticipation.
All the doubts I had about going back to an older Disgaea game was wiped away quickly as I delved deeper to experience new elements of this familiar but new title. This is most certainly the definitive version of Disgaea 4 and a worthy addition to any JRPG fan’s collection.
Trillion: God of Destruction is a game with a unique concept, expertly executed with clever mechanics and solid writing. It’s easily the best I’ve seen come from Idea Factory/Compile Heart, and an experience that reaffirmed some of my own personal traits not just as a gamer, but as a human being. If you fancy yourself brave enough to face Trillion, be wary – you too might not be prepared for what’s in store.
[D]espite all odds, [Drinkbox Studios has] managed to craft a title featuring a fantastic world that begs to be explored, and a combat engine that’s intuitive and the finest use of touch controls since Tearaway. It’s simply the best title to come out for the Vita in some time, and one worth adding to the library of every Vita owner.
With improved visuals, new mechanics, and a more intuitive design- Ace Attorney: Spirit of Justice already has a lot going for it. Factor in a story filled with intrigue that’s as exciting to watch unfold as the best of what the series has to offer thus far and you’re left with an exceptional visual novel and a return to form for the series as a whole.
Azure Striker Gunvolt 2 is everything a sequel should be. It builds on the strengths of the original with its stylish visuals, tight controls and a fluid combat engine that reminds me of how I felt when I was playing some of my favorite 2D platformers in the past.
Gravity Rush 2 feels as great to play as it looks. It’s a true fulfillment of a premise with tremendous potential that was previously hindered due to hardware limitations. It’s a massive improvement in every possible aspect from the original and makes a strong statement as my very first pick for a game of the year contender of 2017.
Central Fiction adds enough characters, mechanics and fine tunes its already nearly flawless gameplay into something that feels as amazing to play as it looks. It’s currently my favorite fighting game on the market, and I have no doubt that I will be throwing dozens of more hours into it in the months to come.
Steins;Gate 0 is a worthy follow up to one of my favorite stories in all of fiction, and enhances the original by further expanding its narrative scope and filling in the gaps that were left open-ended.
Tales of Berseria is a direct response to all the fans of the series that felt disappointed with the lackluster Zestiria. With a much more interesting overarching story, a stellar cast of characters and many refinements to the gameplay, Tales of Berseria is easily the best Tales game since Vesperia.
To the uninitiated to the wild world of Danganronpa, at the bargain price point only $39.99, there is really no excuse for any PS4 owner that isn't severely adverse to the idea of reading to not pick this up. This collection features some of the most exciting and mind-bending adventures I've had the pleasure of reading, and it remains just as it was three years ago, highly recommended.
Without redefining the foundations of the original, Outlast 2 weaves an intriguing tale- paced expertly through environments that breed a sense of tension and paranoia only the best in the genre can muster.
It's an unforgettable journey full of love and betrayal- one that steps past the point of no return and bravely takes another leap forward to a world without hope or despair.