James O'Connor

“The Crush House is a clever and entertaining spin on reality television - one that has its tongue firmly in cheek, but which also speaks to deeper themes in the metanarrative I'm working hard not to spoil here. It's repetitive and a little unfair at times, but also compelling and enjoyable - and there's a real thrill to getting good footage.”

“Arranger takes a type of game puzzle that is often irritating and turns it into something pretty cool – even if some of that frustration remains. It's absolutely gorgeous and full of interesting mechanical ideas, and though its core premise isn't the most exciting, it makes a strong argument for its own existence.”

“SCHiM has moments where it lives up to the promise of its concept, and levels where fresh ideas and fun mechanics elevate the experience. Unfortunately, it also feels padded and simplistic for long stretches, and the narrative doesn't quite hang together. It looks great, but it's often frustrating, too.”

“Thanks to a great remaster and a portable release, Sam & Max Save the World can now hit the road in style.”

“Though it's light on meaningful choices, this brief dip into the Vampire: The Masquerade universe is at least filled with strong writing, interesting characters, and gorgeous art.”

“Paradise Killer is an exemplary adventure game that nails detective work in a way few games do.”

“Thousand Threads is a game of discovery that ultimately doesn't deliver on its intriguing setup by discouraging you from digging too deep.”

“It’s the gaming equivalent of a bag of Original Smiths chips – if you bring it to a party you’re not going to blow anyone’s mind, but everyone’s going to want at least a handful.”

“A long-awaited sequel to a 1994 classic that can't hold up against its predecessor.”

“As a critic, I can’t pretend that the game’s flaws don’t outweigh its qualities. It’s all but impossible to really dislike a game like this, one that has such obvious good intentions and a sincere, hopeful outlook. But there’s also, unfortunately, little reason to recommend that you play it.”

“Superliminal is a perspective-focused puzzle game that is equal parts trippy and endearing.”

“The 2019 anti-golf golf game is better than ever on Nintendo Switch.”

“A relaxing little adventure with gorgeous graphics, easy puzzles, and good vibes.”

“A wealth of entertaining events, accessible control options, and a competent story mode make for the best-ever entry in this simple series.”

“This remaster of a previously solid entry in the Super Monkey Ball franchise initially thrills, but the shine fades fast.”

“Neo Cab is a smart visual novel that looks forward, but also feels very current.”

“A short but sweet game about causing as much mischief and upset as you can.”

“A gorgeous roguelike dungeon crawler that remains compelling and exciting throughout, despite a lot of grinding.”

“Man of Medan is a thinner, flawed follow-up to Until Dawn that is saved by its online co-op mode.”

“Dicey Dungeons is an occasionally frustrating but nevertheless entertaining roguelike that mixes deck building with unpredictable dice rolls.”