Greg Bargas
If you love shmups and tower defense games and are looking for a game to keep returning to, there’s a globe filled with humans that needs conquering. Be ready, though — world domination won’t just be handed to you.
There is a noticeable emphasis on the narrative. Although Shadow of the Tomb Raider modifies what we've grown accustomed to within the franchise, the change of pace is welcomed. You'll find pockets of open-world to explore, with tons of side-quests and interactions with NPCs. Don't expect guns-a-blazin', but do expect getting more than you bargained for from this Tomb Raider experience.
The core mechanics of the original are still very present, even amongst a more action-focused playstyle. If anything, this has widened the audience reach to those who've never played the original and want to enjoy a hearty helping of panic and inventory stress.
Team Sonic Racing was a welcomed surprise. The latest title in the line of Sonic racing games shows evolution. And with Team Sonic Racing, it proves that the series only continues to get better with each iteration.
The Nintendo Switch version of Rocket League is a worthy port. It is welcomed, fun, and brings Switch owner's into the light. Now excuse me while I recline and match wits in my Paladin.
Death Squared is a nice surprise to the puzzle genre, delivering comic relief at all the right moments. It really does teach you to laugh at yourself, while not taking itself as a video game too seriously. Some great things come in small packages, and this one's got nuts…and bolts. And lasers. And explosions.
If you decide to pick up 20XX—you're going to have a bad time. You're going to die, you're going to be frustrated, maybe even throw your controller in a fit of rage. If you're anything like me, you will find small instances of inspiration and confidence to pick up your pad once again and jump back into the fray. And, I couldn't recommend it more for that.
It’s a shame that there isn’t an online community for matches as this would have carried the experience that much farther. But as it stands, there’s enough here to warrant a purchase if you’re looking for an ass-kicking good time on the couch.
Raging Justice is the perfect game to run through in a single sitting or try to complete the list of challenges for each level. Fans of the genre will find many resemblances to games like Final Fight and Streets of Rage. There's enough replay value to invite you in—just don't let the difficulty scare you away.
Fans of the series will no doubt have trouble keeping their eyes locked on their pinballs while still feverishly fondling their flippers. And to anyone else curious, you might find yourself as surprised as I was. I guess, after all, this game does have a happy ending.
Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair marries a variety of platforming mechanics in a meaty campaign with tons of challenges ahead. It’s as polished as it is focused and as true to the genre as you can get. Now, sign me up for the next one.
The fighting genre has games and franchises for practically anyone’s tastes. But, the DC Universe has finally found its stride, creating one of my favorite experience out of the three games thus far.
Guns, Gore & Cannoli 2 is a worthwhile experience. It's the perfect game to plop down on the couch and run through in a weekend. Heck, you could probably even do it in a single sitting. There are plenty of weapons and enemy variety. But, be warned, the button layout isn't that inviting–and not remappable, either. Still, the game hits right in that sweet spot that an action platformer should hit. There's enough action to carry you through the game, with challenges and light exploration. It's a fun platformer with moments of ultraviolence and comedy. Sometimes the jokes miss their mark, but for the most part, it's the perfect helping of delicious goodness.
Barbearian is a hack'n'slash with a lot of character. While the visual style didn't really resonate with me, it's easy to look past that while you're neck deep in enemies and bouncing along to the amazing soundtrack the game has to offer.
Bee Simulator completely nails the fluidity and speed of bee flight. This is a great tool to have when exploring the world within the game. It isn't a true simulation title. Rather, it throws in a story and collectibles for a wider audience. And if you're into learning new factoids about insects and animals, Bee Simulator wraps all these things into one. Be wary, though, as the NPCs can come off as empty and robotic, sometimes taking away from the immersion.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor reflects the storytelling pedigree that Respawn Entertainment is known for. Despite it being a deviation in genre from the first entry, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor builds upon familiar gameplay while expanding exploration, combat, and more. Despite the visual performance issues experienced, these didn't detract from wanting more and finding out how Cal's story concludes. You might find the overall gameplay loop a bit overwhelming, but there is a meaty, emotional journey that lies ahead, Jedi.
If you’re a light Marvel fan, you might have some small stints of research ahead of you.
Overall, Rico has quite a bit in terms of randomized levels and tasks to complete in its roguelike first-person shooter setting. However, the game trips over itself when random placements hinder level progression. These instances become more frustrating as level difficulty ramps up. Still, there's a lot of potential with Rico. I wouldn't mind revisiting the game after a patch or two. As it stands, its a nice addition to the online multiplayer shooter library on Nintendo Switch.
Enter the Gungeon can be brutal. However, you’ll find yourself laughing at its quirky dialogue and obviously ridiculous weapons, and you’ll dust yourself off and jump back in.
Battle Princess Madelyn is both impressive in both visuals and audio. For better, and sometimes worse, the game has modeled itself after difficult games like Ghosts'n Goblins. Metroidvania fans will enjoy the expansive levels, however, satisfaction from level completion and boss fights are less thrilling provided the immediate backtracking you'll perform back through harms way throughout most of the game.