Tetris 99 had a clear focus to provide a simple multiplayer Tetris experience that, despite its simplicity, works extremely well.
It may not be PlatinumGames' finest title, but it's definitely a fun time for any Switch owners looking for their next blood-pumping action title.
...Those who have never played MK11 before can purchase the base game, the Kombat Pack and Aftermath for $59.99. This is an absolute steal for what may be the best fighting game of the generation. Aftermath reinvigorated Mortal Kombat 11 in such a way I can’t help but not recommend it.
The new items, moves, locations and of course Pokémon add a lot to the replay value. Dynamax Adventures alone are worth the price of admission for both DLC expansions. If this is the direction that the franchise is going to take from now on, I’d say that Game Freak definitely nailed it on their first try.
Ultimately, Bugsnax is one charming adventure. Underneath the wacky exterior of outlandish critters lies a surprisingly heartfelt story. Even with its shortcomings and glitches, the game rises above thanks to its charm. This is a case of style over substance that manages to exceed expectations.
In the end, Immortals Fenyx Rising has a generic name applied to a familiar experience. It also happens to sport some derivative design choices. Nevertheless, thanks to its unique style, addicting exploration and enjoyable gameplay, it's an easy game to recommend to everyone. There are some clunky moments and the humor often fumbles more than it lands, but its charm rises above those pitfalls. For those looking for a grand adventure, this is an odyssey worth embarking on.
Mega Man 11 is definitely a step in the right direction for Capcom. The new graphical style, the interesting gear system, and some of the most unique bosses, stages and weapons make it a nice return to form.
New Pokémon Snap is the spin-off that many fans have been yearning for years. Nintendo has not only managed to satiate the hunger of hardcore fans, but the simple yet inviting approach to the world of photography means the entry point is far more forgiving than most games. The repetition and some of the technical issues can hinder the experience, but all of that is eliminated thanks to that joyous moments of discovery.
WarioWare: Get It Together! gets a lot of points for reinvigorating the classic formula. Controlling characters in microgames adds a new layer to the gameplay without making the simple goals too convoluted. Unfortunately, the uneven characters and obtuse controls can result in some frustration. The multiplayer offerings are fun when the main games are the focus, but the variety pack doesn’t add much interest despite its namesake. Still, with all the warts, this is still WarioWare, and it’s still as hilarious and fun as it’s always been. Even if it couldn’t get all of its ideas together, it’s still better than having a rotten time.
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Mania is a major step up from Banana Blitz HD. Thanks to a better source material, both the single and multiplayer content is great. There are some changes with the physics that can lead to very frustrating moments, but as a whole, this is a return to form. Not every new idea lands, but the sheer amount of content for every kind of player will ensure there is something for everyone.
Kirby Star Allies started feeling like a slog for how easy and mundane the adventure felt at times, but despite that I wanted to see myself to the end of it as it does have some neat mechanics with the many possible team formations. I do highly recommend this game for Switch owners that are new to video games.
Despite a lot of omissions, this still remains a fun fighting game to play with friends and there is hope that Koei Tecmo will add features in the near future. How much would that cost is a whole other story.
Just having a one-on-one mind game to see who can punish who first is a lot of fun. Even with its issues, Samurai Shodown is definitely a step in the right direction for the series. If it keeps going at this rate, it can only go up.
While this version isn’t a major step up from the original release four years ago, Yu-Gi-Oh! Legacy of the Duelist: Link Evolution is a perfect match on the Nintendo Switch. Being able to pick up and play a few battles here and there is ideal for handheld play.
For a re-imagining of an arcade classic, BurgerTime Party! is pretty enjoyable. The creative premise, cartoony visuals and multiplayer mayhem are all a part of this multiple course meal.
While the story is leagues over the original, its short length and lack of content feels sparse. I think the value of the DLC lies with having both expansion packs together, since Crown Tundra will feature the long awaited Legendary Raids. Isle of Armor is a nice addition for Pokémon Sword and Shield, but only the biggest Pokémaniacs will get the most out of the experience.
Virtua Fighter 5 Ultimate Showdown is a welcome return of the grand-daddy of 3D fighters. The much needed graphical touch ups help rejuvenate an aging game thanks to better facial animations and cleaner visuals. The gameplay is as solid as ever, handling especially well with the online integration. Unfortunately those who aren’t into the competitive aspect of fighting games might not find a lot to enjoy here. If you are big into the genre and want a more technical fighter, it is highly recommended.
At the end of the day, those expecting a game to be on the caliber of “All Might”, might get a game that is actually more “all right”.
There's some great mechanics such as the perks system, unique mission variety, hunting for animals and even some of the weapons can be fun to use. But the mangled progression system, dull storytelling, finicky shooting and the abysmal vehicle controls damper the fun overall. Fans of the franchise will find plenty to enjoy, but New Dawn is a far cry from the series' best.
This game is purely recommended to the fans of the genre and others should consider before partaking in this frantic voyage.