Ben Sheene

“Moons of Darsalon captures the zany slapstick of older platformers while introducing numerous tools to spice up the action. Though aesthetically beholden to a time and place, this is a worthy interpretation of a forgotten genre.”

“Dreamcore captures the ethos of liminal spaces, using the Backrooms phenomenon as its springboard. Though certainly not a "chill" venture, the eerie vibes it produces are effective despite having only two levels available at launch.”

“Frantic and rhythmic, ROBOBEAT enters the small crowd of music-centric action games that blend the timing of beats and bullets. While touted as a roguelite, it's more random arcade shooter at heart, focusing on the thrill of the kinetic kill.”

“Turbo Overkill is part of a rapidly growing renaissance of classically-styled first-person shooters. While modern conveniences apply here, the crux of Trigger Happy Interactive's offering is to allow players to rampage through absurd scenarios.”

“While Eternal Strands may openly pull ideas from numerous beloved games, there is a distinct charm and creativity in its execution, despite some questionable physics. Familiarity is merely one tool threading this promising tapestry together.”

“Tales of Graces f Remastered is a wonderful expression of translating a classic JRPG onto modern consoles. Rather than attempt a costly, unnecessary overhaul, Tose and Bandai Namco paid respect to this legacy series by bringing it to a current audience, one made up of series veterans and newcomers.”

“Despite the overstuffed quality of this ambitious package, it's hard not to admire the noble attempt Spirit Mancer makes to capture diverse genres and blend it into a game with whimsical pixel art and breezy combat.”

“El Paso, Elsewhere may seem a mimicry of multiple games and ideas. But its impeccable writing and vibrant soundtrack carve a path through evolving chapters of demon hunting and introspection, leaving the player thirsty for more.”

“Phoenix Springs is an interesting take on the point-and-click adventure genre, transforming more into a visual, text-based journey relying on more than enough guesswork to piece together its often nebulous solutions.”

“Mars 2120 undeniably borrows heavily from the progenitor of the genre it aspires to emulate. Metroid hallmarks are here--along with a few interesting twists and setpieces--but are held back by some finicky issues and a rushed power creep.”

“Deadlink is a pulse-pounding boomer shooter wrapped in roguelite trappings. By stripping the fat and relying on intense action, GRUBY Entertainment delivers the best both genres have to offer.”

“Killer Klowns From Outer Space: The Game excels in its uncomplicated experiment with asymmetrical multiplayer. Rather than bog players down in multiple systems, IllFonic and Teravision choose kinetic gameplay that always has players doing something. Such a stripped-down experience is made memorable by the campy nature of the film, quick matches, and fast leveling. Of course, the circus elephant in the room is how welcome the community will be towards embracing a game that leans more into thrills and less into horror. Will the Killer Klowns wrap us up in its sugary embrace or scare us away?”

“Hauntii is absolutely one of a kind, despite the familiarity players may latch on to. Moonloop Games creates a title focused on exploration that is visually riveting and packed with attention to detail. Incorporating puzzles both obtuse and clever, frustration and satisfaction may go hand in hand. But enough narrative heft and creative depth mean Hauntii is no mere specter that will fade into memory.”

“Garden Life: A Cozy Simulator is just that: cozy. There’s little reason to strive for perfection in a game that merely wants players to dabble in its goal of building whatever kind of idyllic flower patch desired. This kind of directionless aura may be a turn off for those seeking a different kind of simulator but what’s on offer is hard not to enjoy.”

“Have a Nice Death should satisfy any player looking for a roguelike that excels at being more than merely competent. Bolstered by an incredible art style, accessible combat with a taste for encouraging lengthier and harder playthroughs sets Have a Nice Death firmly amongst the heaviest of competition.”

“Cookie Cutter is hyper-violent translation of old-school Metroidvanias that gracefully does not allow itself to get bogged down with convoluted modern flourishes. Exploration tools drop the player into a satisfying progression loop that doesn’t rely on random elements and combat is not overtly punishing. But it’s Cookie Cutter‘s unique visual palette and uncompromising absurdity that truly leave a bloody impression before ever allowing itself to grow stale.”

“Ad Infinitum deals in many types of horror, often skewering expectations. Though rough around the edges and packing unremarkable puzzles, the terrifying truths of its real-world scares offer more captivating chills than its monster-focused moments.”

“Life is Strange 2 on Nintendo Switch is a faithful port of a four-year-old game. The story of brotherly love leaves a lasting impact, even if this aging console continues to show its seams.”

“Yuppie Psycho: Extended Edition places players in a surreal corporate hellscape. A brisk horror adventure crosses grim visuals and dark humor while providing hours of new content and context.”

“BrokenLore: UNFOLLOW admirably delves into the murky evils of topics like social media obsession, bullying, and overbearing parents. Enough genuine psychological scares and clever moments make up for predictable gameplay and unresolved plot threads.”