Category: Reviews

Absinthia Review

Absinthia is an indie RPG with a buoyant soundtrack and charming graphical style. Boasting an LGBTQ+ cast and themes, this modern tale in a fantasy world drips with 16-bit era JRPG charm.

Octopath Traveler II Review

Despite generally positive reviews, the first Octopath Traveler had its fair share of specific criticisms. Playing to its strengths, while working to fix perceived weaknesses, Octopath Traveler II delivers a masterpiece of a turn-based JRPG.

Like a Dragon: Ishin! Review

The Like a Dragon series is heading deep into the past, hoping to restore Japan to its former glory. But can Kazuma — I mean, Ryoma Sakamoto — find a girlfriend, stop a cult, pet cats and help the Shinsengumi restore Japan?

Meg’s Monster Review

In a genre of flashing spells and slashing swords, murder and magic and mayhem, sometimes we must take a breather to remember that which can hurt our hearts most of all: the tears of a small child. Keep her happy, keep her safe, lest it be the last thing any of us ever do.

Fire Emblem Engage Review

The latest Fire Emblem entry looks to earlier games for some divine inspiration. While the contributions of its past add an interesting tactical dimension, the other portions of the game do little to advance the series.

Chained Echoes Review

Chained Echoes is proof positive that all-round excellence is achievable regardless of budget. It’s a game that can be savored by modern players and those pining for the glory days of 16-bit JRPGs alike.

Path of the Midnight Sun Review

Path of the Midnight Sun, the debut title from Studio Daimon, combines visual novel storytelling with strategic turn-based RPG combat. Although neither element truly shines on its own, the game balances them well to create a satisfying 25-hour experience.

Persona 3 Portable PS4 Review

This year starts strong with the release of Persona 3 Portable on multiple platforms. With an amazing story, a superb soundtrack, and a great battle system, this classic RPG is still totally worth playing.

Monster Hunter Rise PS5 Review

Monster Hunter is a storied series that seeks new ways to innovate to be as accessible to veterans and newcomers alike. One such newcomer looks to see if Monster Hunter Rise has what to takes to find a new fan.

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope Review

Ubisoft’s second entry in the Mario + Rabbids universe improves upon the formula while retaining everything from the original that players fell in love with. The fusion of two already long-running franchises has the potential to keep going strong.

Sports Story Review

Sidebar Games went ambitious with its follow-up to Golf Story. Unfortunately, that ambition ultimately sees Sports Story overshooting the green and lying somewhere in the rough.

The Last Oricru Review

The Last Oricru is a well-written choice-based action RPG blending sci-fi and medieval fantasy. Unfortunately, unpolished combat and glaring technical issues make this one experiment worth avoiding.

Harvestella Review

Square Enix and Live Wire took to the fields for Harvestella. An ambitious story sticks the landing with a thoroughly engaging gameplay loop for one of this year’s bigger surprises.