Majkol Robuschi

“A welcome generational transition that elevates the staples of the 1993 classic. A must for fans.”

“With Ys X Nordics, Falcom reconfirms the pedigree of excellent action role-playing games that it has always boasted in the Japanese production landscape. The new navigation mechanics enrich and multifacet an exploratory system that, if it had been expressed only in the contained three-dimensional maps representing the islands, could have disappointed most. The clash system remains the flagship of the work, especially at higher difficulty levels, but perhaps it is time for the Japanese company to take a further step forward in terms of production values. Adol deserves to be the protagonist of a video game that does not seem to have come out of a distant era.”

“A painful but necessary final reflection, in a DLC expressly aimed at fans.”

“Unconvincing even when it shows off its peculiarities, Reynatis proves to be a barely mediocre action JRPG.”

“Originally a beloved Capcom title, this remake enhances the gameplay with modern quality-of-life improvements, while staying true to its roots in many ways. From upgraded graphics with RE Engine to improved survivor AI, the experience is more accessible, but this might divide long-time fans. The remaster succeeds in updating a classic, appealing to both newcomers and veterans, though some might argue that the essence of the original's hardcore difficulty has been softened. An impressive rework that balances nostalgia with modern sensibilities.”

“Gundam Breaker 4 is an absolute must-play for fans of the franchise, and the fast-paced and fun combat system limits the repetitiveness of the experience. However, the lack of depth and fan service make it a game not for everyone.”

“Ace Attorney Investigations Collection revives the fan-favorite spin-off series with a fresh take on the classic formula. The collection introduces Western audiences to the previously unreleased second entry, but long-standing series limitations may still feel dated. Despite this, the collection's charm and the return of beloved characters should delight fans who crave more of what they love.”

“Visions of Mana is an operation that exudes love for the reference brand, but which aims above all to be an extremely light experience for fans, or better yet an excellent example of entertainment aimed at the youngest and most neophyte audience of RPGs. In spite of an all-in-all simple-minded gaming experience, the Square Enix production still manages to stand on its feet thanks to the charm of its colorful and fairy universe of characters and the charisma of its cast of protagonists, all attributable to the canons of the series.”

“The Legend of Legacy HD is the high-definition translation of the Nintendo 3DS video game of the same name. It is a Japanese role-playing game clearly aimed at the audience of enthusiasts looking for inscrutable game mechanics, but it hardly manages to make itself attractive in any way to the general public.”

“The Thaumaturge is a well-written narrative adventure with an excellent setting. Its mechanics, borrowed from RPGs, are not overly complex, but contribute to the quality of the experience.”

“An unexpected and welcome epilogue to the events of the original Tales of Arise that fails to create a significant experience compared to the original game.”

“The game offers simple hack 'n' slash action and a story mode that follows the manga's plot. However, the gameplay experience often becomes dull due to poorly designed boss battles and design limitations. The Temple of Recollection mode adds an interesting variation but doesn't significantly impact character strength. Despite attractive graphics and the inclusion of the entire story, the game lacks refinement and feels like a disappointing tie-in for a brand like Dragon Quest.”

“Eternights, an indie game inspired by Persona, blends RPG progression with hack 'n' slash action. While combat lacks depth, the game shines in character development and storytelling. Its teenage-oriented tone may not appeal to everyone, but it offers a unique mix of romance and supernatural intrigue.”

“A recommended appointment for those who have enjoyed the previous episodes of the series in the past, but it probably remains an all too simplistic and self-referential product for the simply curious players.”

“The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie may not mark the beginning of a new narrative arc, but it serves as a celebratory culmination of a beloved RPG series. With its well-crafted characters and intricate political storytelling, it offers a final chance to revisit the rich Trails universe. While visual aspects may show their age, the engaging gameplay and memorable interactions make this a worthwhile experience for dedicated fans. For newcomers, starting with earlier entries in the series is recommended for a proper introduction.”

“Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective is a high-definition re-release of a cult game from the Nintendo DS era, which in this high-definition version has one more chance to be appreciated by fans of the mystery stories and puzzles typical of the works written and directed by Shu Takumi. This ambitious game is highly recommended for Ace Attorney fans and anyone who wants to get involved with the rich cast of eccentric characters that populate its dark mysteries.”

“Fuga: Memories of Steel 2 picks up the reins of the previous chapter without making any particular changes to its structure. Cyberconnect2's video game remains a fascinating and emotionally challenging work, recommended for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a role-playing game with melodramatic and committed tones. It is a pity that such singular works go entirely unnoticed in the generalist market, especially when one thinks that with higher production values, they could establish themselves as true must-haves.”

“Monster Menu: The Scavenger's Cookbook may be a rich snack for fans of the genre, but it may prove indigestible to most at the launch price at which it is offered.”

“Mato Anomalies is a video game with an interesting premise, but with an execution that is barely capable of keeping up with other turn-based RPGs. Its noir atmospheres mixed with a cyberpunk setting are extremely seductive, but under the bonnet of an interesting vintage car there is an engine whose roar really fails to impress.”

“From here there is no going back: Atelier Ryza 3 takes Gust's RPG series into the future.”