https://screenrant.com All the latest movie news, movie trailers & reviews - and the same for TV, too. Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:26:42 GMT en-US hourly 60 In an increasingly crowded genre where heroes must befriend and recruit monsters for battle, Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is a standout. The latest entry in this spin-off series, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, features the iconic monsters of Dragon Quest and more than a few recognizable faces from past DQ titles. It's a game for longtime fans and newcomers alike, one that's accessible as a first-time entry or one that works as a trek down memory lane celebrating the series' past.

]]> Fri, 08 Dec 2023 15:26:42 GMT https://screenrant.com/dragon-quest-monsters-the-dark-prince-review/ Even though it's only 1/3 of the way complete, Emberheart Games' Wizordum is required playing for not just Hexen fans, but anyone who has ever looked up from messing around with an in-game level editor only to realize it's 03:00 and you've been working on diagetic enemy placement for six hours. As yet another movement shooter from Apogee in the vein of Duke 3D, Wizordum stands out by pulling the same trick Hexen did when it branched off the DOOM engine in 1995; setting itself apart with unique enemies, an elaborate fantasy setting, and magical spells instead of assault rifles. It worked then, and it works here too.

]]> Wed, 06 Dec 2023 18:37:56 GMT https://screenrant.com/wizordum-review-pc/ Last year's rocking heavy metal rhythm shooter Metal: Hellsinger returns with the Purgatory DLC and free roguelike Leviathan mode that is more hardcore than the game's catchy soundtrack. With additional weapons and a challenging new mode, Metal: Hellsinger feels more like a complete package that provides many more hours of fun beyond its short campaign.

]]> Wed, 06 Dec 2023 17:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/metal-hellsinger-dlc-review/ Warhammer 40,000 has been a continual presence in the world of video games. From early titles like Space Hulk or Chaos Gate, which received a revival just last year, through to recent shooters like Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, there’s been an army of games of varied quality over the years. Enter Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader from Owlcat Games, taking a RPG approach for the far future setting.

]]> Wed, 06 Dec 2023 13:00:19 GMT https://screenrant.com/warhammer-40k-rogue-trader-pc-review/ Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a game that promises a lot just by existing. Developed by Massive Entertainment and published by Ubisoft, it's a very AAA take on a very blockbuster film franchise, hellbent on creating a beautiful world that's almost impossibly dense with vivid life. Much to the game's credit, it rises to the challenge of rendering Pandora's splendor with care, and a share of somewhat pedestrian elements never manage to overwhelm everything that it does right.

]]> Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:01:14 GMT https://screenrant.com/avatar-frontiers-pandora-pc-review/ The long-awaited sequel from Vertigo Games, Arizona Sunshine 2, has finally arrived with plenty of immersive zombie-killing fun for VR players. After a lengthy seven-year gap between the original Arizona Sunshine and its sequel, there's still a high bar - the original title was a groundbreaking VR advancement in its time.

]]> Tue, 05 Dec 2023 16:00:26 GMT https://screenrant.com/arizona-sunshine-2-quest-2-review/ In the time of always-online requirements, game-ruining microtransactions, and DLC, sometimes players may be left yearning for the days when things were a lot more simple. That's something that HyperMegaTech! is certainly aiming to help with, thanks to the extremely portable Super Pocket handheld consoles.

]]> Mon, 04 Dec 2023 17:00:49 GMT https://screenrant.com/super-pocket-review/ An unholy union of stealth-based FPS and weird western horror works like dynamite in Hyperstrange’s Blood West. With the game now releasing after almost two years spent in Early Access, the final version delivers a substantive, often grueling action-RPG experience with some light survival horror elements, all presented in gloriously low-rez 3D. The eye-catching gritty aesthetic pairs beautifully with the macabre country atmosphere, and fans of horror games, challenging Soulslikes, and the classic Thief series (Stephen L. Russell incidently joined the game's voice cast recently) will not be able to tear themselves away.

]]> Fri, 01 Dec 2023 14:00:19 GMT https://screenrant.com/blood-west-pc-review/ The second set of Disney Lorcana cards, Rise of the Floodborn, features a host of new characters, as well as some re-imagined versions of characters included in The First Chapter. It's an impressive addition to the first set, and the Illumineer's Trove for Rise of the Floodborn is an excellent way to start collecting these new cards. As its name suggests, the Illumineer's Trove is packed with items for the TCG, including eight booster packs.

]]> Thu, 30 Nov 2023 14:56:41 GMT https://screenrant.com/disney-lorcana-rise-floodborn-illumineers-trove-review/ I wasn't expecting Astral Ascent to hook me like it did, but Hibernian Workshop has combined nearly all the most entertaining aspects of games like Hades, Ori and the Blind Forest, and Dead Cells in such a way that it has done something unthinkable in 2023 - it's gotten me interested in roguelikes again. It's not a perfect game, but with an undeniably addictive gameplay loop, great characters, and the addition of local 2-player co-op, it's impossible to call Astral Ascent anything less than a great time.

]]> Wed, 29 Nov 2023 04:28:50 GMT https://screenrant.com/astral-ascent-review-pc/ Roots of Pacha takes the cozy genre back to the Stone Age, offering some interesting twists to the typical simulation formula. The debut title from developer Soda Den, the game places players in a prehistoric tribe which over time will progress through new technology and discoveries in a way that offers a genuine sense of progress and accomplishment. While many core facets of the game are exactly what one would expect, the charming world and sense of community it fosters makes it easy to get caught up in a "one more day" loop nonetheless.

]]> Mon, 27 Nov 2023 16:00:15 GMT https://screenrant.com/roots-pacha-switch-review/ SteamWorld Build is the latest entry in the SteamWorld franchise, this time exploring the city building genre. The title comes from developer The Station and publisher Thunderful, the latter of which has previously helped produce several other entries in the series alongside releases like Cursed to Golf and Planet of Lana. While the game brings a lot of engaging mechanics to the table in a creative world, a lack of in-depth analytics holds it back from perfection.

]]> Mon, 27 Nov 2023 14:31:15 GMT https://screenrant.com/steamworld-build-pc-review/ The Genshin Impact: Official Art Book Vol. 1 is a must-own for invested players of HoYoverse's game, featuring a slew of interesting design pieces and looks into the world of Teyvat. For a game that's become such a cultural phenomenon, peeks behind the curtain are especially valuable, and there's plenty for those who think they've seen everything that Genshin Impact has to offer to discover in the pages of this excellently curated art collection.

]]> Tue, 21 Nov 2023 23:40:30 GMT https://screenrant.com/genshin-impact-official-art-book-vol-1-review/ An indie roguelite classic proudly rides again in Risk of Rain Returns. Now under the umbrella of Gearbox Entertainment, Hopoo Games’ original came out a full decade ago, back during the burgeoning roguelite renaissance and two years after The Binding of Isaac hit PCs. Like Isaac, it proved a crucial hit in the indie space over time, and even perpetuated certain standards and tropes which would find their way into later roguelites, including the studio’s own massively successful sequel. Risk of Rain 2 served as an expanded 3D take on its predecessor, but Risk of Rain Returns is a formal remake, functionally reinvigorating a ten-year-old essential roguelite while carefully retaining its crucial essence.

]]> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 03:52:45 GMT https://screenrant.com/risk-rain-returns-pc-review/ Who doesn’t love a good grappling hook? Recent pixelated platformer Sanabi serves up swinging gameplay and cyberpunk style, with a surprisingly dense narrative that can't get out of its own way. There are some unquestionably good vibes to be had in just swinging and parkouring around gun-toting robots and bottomless pits, but the game’s script was in desperate need of another pass, resulting in constant pacing issues that intrude on the playable content.

]]> Mon, 20 Nov 2023 03:44:39 GMT https://screenrant.com/sanabi-pc-review/ The power fantasy of being an assassin and the simple pleasures of virtual tourism might not seem like ideas that would go hand-in-hand, but the Assassin's Creed series has managed to mash them together for 16 years and counting. Assassin's Creed Nexus VR brings these gameplay prerogatives to virtual reality for the first time, taking familiar systems that developer Ubisoft has been playing with across the course of the franchise and faithfully reimagining them from a fresh perspective. In some ways, the VR experience feels like the perfect fit, although not every aspect of the series translates without any hiccups.

]]> Thu, 16 Nov 2023 18:00:23 GMT https://screenrant.com/assassins-creed-nexus-vr-quest-2-review/ The One Ring: Tales From The Lone-Lands is the latest book from Free League Publishing to take adventurers through iconic locations from The Lord of the Rings' Middle-earth. Featuring six new adventures, Tales From The Lone-Lands has some great world-building and runs the gamut from the Shire, to Gundabad, Thorbad, and beyond. The tone of these adventures can range from mysteries to horror to epic fantasy battle sequences, offering a little something for everyone.

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 19:05:34 GMT https://screenrant.com/one-ring-rpg-tales-from-lone-lands-review/ The Atari 2600 is one of the first systems that often comes to mind with the thought of retro video games. Now the original console has been recreated in exquisite detail by PLAION and Atari with their updated version, the Atari 2600+. It is a nearly 1:1 replica of the original machine and even the same CX40+ Joystick, but now offers USB power connectors, HDMI output, multiple screen resolutions, and is backwards compatible with both the Atari 2600 and 7800 cartridges of the past. It is a beautiful console that is incredibly fun for nostalgic purposes, but even after more than fifty years, it is not flawless in its gameplay mechanics.

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 16:00:28 GMT https://screenrant.com/atari-2600-plus-review/ CyberConnect2's Naruto X Boruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Connections brings changes that make the flashy, fast-paced gameplay better than ever. In recent years, anime fighting games have dramatically improved their presentation and gameplay, with games like Dragon Ball FighterZ gaining an impressive competitive following. The Naruto Ninja Storm series began by adapting Part 1 of Masashi Kishimoto's storyline. CyberConnect2's reverence for the series shined with the series' larger-than-life boss battles, intense quick-time-events sequences not seen in the anime, and a multiplayer component for friends to have their own epic ninja battles.

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:00:19 GMT https://screenrant.com/naruto-x-boruto-storm-connections-review/ Nintendo’s first-party overhaul remakes are a rarity, especially when it comes to Mario, which made the first Super Mario RPG announcement for the Nintendo Switch a welcome surprise. The new release is a complete soup-to-nuts rebuild of Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars, the character’s first foray into turn-based RPGs, a format which would eventually lead to its better-known spiritual offshoots in the Paper Mario and Mario & Luigi series. Whether or not Squaresoft’s quirky classic can still match blows with contemporary turn-based offerings, it remains a delightful rendition of a historic treasure, packed with the same irreverently weird humor and novel gameplay as before.

]]> Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:00:19 GMT https://screenrant.com/super-mario-rpg-remake-switch-review/ Persona 5 Tactica asks the question: "what if Persona 5 was an XCOM game?" It really is that simple, as developer P-Studio borrows heavily from the latter series to fuel the latest journey through the P5 universe. As it turns out, the answer to that question is equally simple - it's another excellent entry into a growing portfolio of Persona 5 spin-offs, and a successful blend of the series' trademark charming art style and the deep strategy of XCOM-style tactical RPGs.

]]> Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:06:13 GMT https://screenrant.com/persona-5-tactica-review/ After the disappointing launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's campaign, players hoped the multiplayer modes would raise the title to new heights, but unfortunately, even the multiplayer feels dated. MW3's multiplayer includes a visually updated collection of beloved maps and an entirely new open-world Zombie mode. Still, any player hoping the latest installment would revolutionize the series will be disappointed with a package that feels more like a remaster of content that's already been played for thousands of hours.

]]> Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:53:33 GMT https://screenrant.com/call-duty-mw3-multiplayer-review-ps5/ After 15 months in Alpha and then just over a year in Early Access, tropical farming simulator Coral Island is finally launching in full. Humble Games and Stairway Games' vibrant island experience is inspired by classic farming simulators, and Coral Island adds depth with a message of ocean conservation, as well as a very detail-focused experience in every aspect of gameplay.

]]> Tue, 14 Nov 2023 16:25:50 GMT https://screenrant.com/coral-island-pc-review/ Gamers often use video games for escapism, but recently players have shifted away from purely focusing on the power fantasy of action games and instead towards the warmth and comfort of cozy games. Whether it's the impact of cost of living challenges meaning that the dream of a relaxed life feels more distant, or a craving for community, there's something special about these life sims. Enter Spirittea from Cheesemaster Games and No More Robots.

]]> Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:59:30 GMT https://screenrant.com/spirittea-game-review/ Hello Kitty and Friends Happiness Parade is dancing its way into homes through the Nintendo Switch with this new rhythm game led by Sanrio characters. It is a very cheerful and upbeat endless runner experience from publisher Rogue Games, Inc. and developer Dabadu Games. The music for Hello Kitty and Friends Happiness Parade is incredibly catchy and gets players up on their feet while the cheerful artistry and bright colors truly do fulfill Hello Kitty's mission to spread joy. There are 23 different levels with over 40 foot-tapping songs that fill this game, as well as fun extras such as cute outfits, challenges for extra rewards, and more.

]]> Mon, 13 Nov 2023 16:00:48 GMT https://screenrant.com/hello-kitty-friends-happiness-parade-switch-review/ Having missed out on the initial wave of Disney Lorcana excitement, getting into the game felt a little daunting. Being friends or working with people who were deeply invested in the game only deepened that anxiety; they were often discussing card concepts in ways that far outstripped my meager knowledge of the game. Starter decks were hot commodities and by the time the option of acquiring one came my way, it had felt like I missed out entirely.

]]> Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:23:48 GMT https://screenrant.com/disney-lorcana-rise-floodborn-starter-decks-review/ Ugly is a puzzle platformer from developer Team Ugly and publisher Graffiti Games. With the use of a unique and complex mirror mechanic that is used to solve its various levels, Ugly presents its players with both a fun gimmick and a complex way to solve problems that will require some skill to master.

]]> Fri, 10 Nov 2023 19:58:50 GMT https://screenrant.com/ugly-game-review/ Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 is a sequel from developer Fair Play Labs and publisher Gamemill Entertainment. Coming two years after the release of the first Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl, the game features even more Nick Toon characters as they embark on a long journey to stop Vlad Plasmius.

]]> Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:47:45 GMT https://screenrant.com/nickelodeon-all-star-brawl-2-switch-review/ For many, Star Ocean: The Second Story R may just be another remake of a highly revered PlayStation title, but in all honestly, it is one of the must-play JRPGs of the year. In many ways, the remake successfully retains the characteristics of the sci-fi/fantasy themes from the franchise while introducing new features that bring it up to par with modern titles. The game’s visuals have also been overhauled and inspired by Octopath Traveler’s aesthetics, making it a very charming world to get lost in.

]]> Wed, 08 Nov 2023 15:03:09 GMT https://screenrant.com/star-ocean-second-story-r-switch-review/ The previous king of nail-biting FPS campaigns has proven it needs some time off from annual releases with Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's campaign. Sledgehammer Games has helped develop many Call of Duty titles since Modern Warfare 3's original release on generation three consoles in 2011, but 2023's CoD: MW3's campaign fails to include exciting features to help it stand out.

]]> Wed, 08 Nov 2023 14:25:23 GMT https://screenrant.com/call-duty-modern-warfare-3-2023-campaign-review/ Resident Evil Village is the eighth mainline installment in the Resident Evil franchise from publisher and developer Capcom. After taking home several Game of the Year awards, Resident Evil Village becomes even more accessible to players with an exciting new release on iOS devices running iOS/iPadOS 17.0.0 or later.

]]> Tue, 07 Nov 2023 16:24:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/resident-evil-village-ios-review/ Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name does an incredible job of navigating two distinct narrative branches - the close of Kiryu's (sorry, Joryu's) narrative as main protagonist and the beginning of a new era for the world's larger Yakuza affiliations. Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name is a game that does more with its 10-15 hour playtime than past games in developer RGG's series did with double. With a slew of callbacks and a relatively straightforward tie-in to Yakuza: Like A Dragon, it's also an important game to bridge the gap between Kiryu's convoluted, decades-long backstory and Ichiban's new journey.

]]> Mon, 06 Nov 2023 15:00:23 GMT https://screenrant.com/like-dragon-gaiden-man-who-erased-name-ps5-review/ For all the fast-paced action of football, it’s always impressive that a series like Football Manager remains one of the best ways to experience the sport in a virtual format. Developer Sports Interactive has done a tremendous job of transferring the tactical and formation flexibility of the beautiful game into a strategic sim. Now, Football Manager 2024 provides players with the latest entry in the franchise.

]]> Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:43:53 GMT https://screenrant.com/football-manager-2024-game-review/ Rally racing may not be the most popular form of motor racing around, but it’s certainly one of the most exciting. It’s also one that has regularly proved to be a perfect fit for video games, from Sega Rally Championship (and it's Sega Saturn port masterpiece) and Colin McRae through to modern offerings. Enter WRC from Codemasters and EA Sports, this year’s official World Rally Championship game.

]]> Sun, 05 Nov 2023 23:39:09 GMT https://screenrant.com/ea-sports-wrc-ps5-game-review/ From Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? to Dune, the defining works of 1960s sci-fi have long loomed large in the speculative scene. It's rare, however, for a modern adaptation to fully commit to the aesthetic elements that couched the genre at the time. The Invincible, developed by Starward Industries and published by 11 bit studios, attempts to do just that, translating a seminal work by Stanisław Lem to retrofuturist video game form. It's a tremendous success in a visual regard, although mileage may vary with its approach to gameplay.

]]> Thu, 02 Nov 2023 15:00:13 GMT https://screenrant.com/the-invincible-pc-review/ 2023 may well be known as the year Dungeons & Dragons wholly embraced chaos, and The Deck Of Many Things boxed set helps exemplify that. It seems like most of the year, D&D 5e has leaned into the strange and chaotic possibilities the TTRPG can offer, with releases like Phandelver & Below: The Shattered Obelisk, Planescape, and now The Deck Of Many Things all allowing players to have fun in the mayhem of the multiverse. Of all of these, however, The Deck Of Many Things bundle may best illustrate just how fun all that randomness and chance can be in DnD 5e.

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:25:34 GMT https://screenrant.com/dungeons-dragons-deck-many-things-book-bundle-review/ My Time at Sandrock manages to expand and improve upon its predecessor My Time at Portia in almost every way, and despite a few bugs and small qualms, it stands as one of the best life simulation games in years. Just like Portia, this new entry comes from developer Pathea Games and publisher Focus Entertainment, the latter of which has also helped release titles like Atomic Heart and Aliens Dark Descent. While there will be players who simply don't care for the game's fundamentally task-centric nature or wish for more complex combat, for fans of the genre My Time at Sandrock does almost everything right.

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:24:12 GMT https://screenrant.com/my-time-sandrock-pc-review/ Thirsty Suitors combines turn-based combat, skateboarding, and cooking to make a wholly unique experience about coming to terms with your past mistakes and mending relationships. The title comes from Outerloop Games, a studio which specializes in storytelling about underrepresented cultures, and publisher Annapurna Interactive. Though Thirsty Suitors lacks complexity in some areas, it makes up for it through creativity, aesthetics, and emotional South Asian-inspired storytelling.

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 16:00:13 GMT https://screenrant.com/thirsty-suitors-review-switch/ WarioWare: Move It! gets back to the microgame series' roots in many ways, eschewing some of the less favorable mechanics of its predecessor Get It Together! while staying true to its core principles. The Nintendo series just celebrated its 20th anniversary earlier this year, but this new entry shows that there are still fresh ways to ideate on the beloved franchise. The new game returns to movement-based gameplay first established with the Wii's Smooth Moves, taking full advantage of the Nintendo Switch's capabilities and creating something that's a lot of chaotic fun, although there's arguably less for single players to do this time around.

]]> Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:00:13 GMT https://screenrant.com/warioware-move-it-review-switch/ Pulling a wand and down and readying it for action from its proton pack mount certainly feels like a confirmed return on the promise of VR. Long-running VR-focused studio nDreams’ new multiplayer co-op game Ghostbusters: Rise of the Ghost Lord incorporates snazzy versions of all the standard ghostbusting gear into a fine use of the license, with digestible short-stint missions that rarely overstay their welcome.

]]> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:20:13 GMT https://screenrant.com/ghostbusters-rise-ghost-lord-psvr2-review/ Vampire: The Masquerade - Justice is the latest VR release from developer and publisher Fast Travel Games. Players are thrown into the World of Darkness as they explore the various alleyways of Venice in this narrative RPG. Mastering stealthy movements and various powers will be key to surviving these dimly lit streets as a true creature of the night.

]]> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:00:37 GMT https://screenrant.com/vampire-masquerade-justice-review/ It's strange how climbing is a key mechanic across so many video games. Whether it's the stealthy climbing of the triumphant homage of Assassin's Creed Mirage or the fast-paced Mirror's Edge, it's a core facet of many gaming experiences. Enter Jusant from Don't Nod, which puts climbing at the center of its main mechanics.

]]> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:55:26 GMT https://screenrant.com/jusant-ps5-review/ Star Trek: Infinite wants to be the Star Trek strategy game to beat the band. It was developed by Nimble Giant Studios and published by Paradox Interactive, a publishing house with a reputation for wonderfully deep, complicated strategy games. Among its flagship properties, Paradox counts Cities: Skylines, Crusader Kings, and Stellaris, which Star Trek: Infinite’s systems are based and built upon. And of course, it has the benefit of its Star Trek branding. It's set in one of the most fascinating and popular eras of the series’ continuity, beginning in The Next Generation’s 24th century and stretching far beyond.

]]> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 15:52:20 GMT https://screenrant.com/star-trek-infinite-pc-review/ How is it that the long-running RoboCop franchise has suddenly manifested its best adaptation in years? Developer Teyon should be applauded, not just for making RoboCop: Rogue City an enjoyable, substantive game that outshines most other attempts at this IP, but for taking such delicate care of the character and his world, resulting in possibly the finest overall RoboCop narrative since the original film. The subtlest details of the art direction and sound design are a knockout, supported by a solid, if somewhat simple, FPS and action-RPG framework. The resultant package feels custom-built for devotees, overstuffed with tributes at nearly every step of the story, effectively surpassing its occasional misstep or bug.

]]> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 09:00:17 GMT https://screenrant.com/robocop-rogue-city-ps5-review/ Samba de Amigo: Party Central marks the arrival of SEGA's classic rhythm series on the Nintendo Switch, a destination that feels overdue. If the Joy-Cons have ever been meant for anything, it's taking up the role of maracas for furious shaking to the beat, a role that once required the purchase of peripherals for the franchise's original entry on the Dreamcast. Although motion controls may no longer be as fresh as they were when the first game debuted, the core idea of Samba de Amigo remains as appealing and fun as ever.

]]> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 20:00:17 GMT https://screenrant.com/samba-de-amigo-party-central-switch-review/ In contrast to the darker and more mysterious tone of season 19, Apex Legends is bringing back some levity with season 19, Ignite, due in part to its newest legend, Conduit. Alongside the introduction of a new legend, the team at Respawn has implemented a number of changes including map redesign and balancing. Unlike previous seasons, however, the team chose not to touch every part of the Apex Legends experience, but instead focused on making impactful adjustments to specific areas.

]]> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:24:10 GMT https://screenrant.com/apex-legends-ignite-season-19-preview/ There really is a simulation game for everything that video game fans could want. Whether it's the attempts at authenticity seen in the Farming Simulator games or the more strange and unrealistic approach taken by the likes of Gas Station Simulator, there's a little bit for everyone if they search for "simulator" on the game platform of their choice. AirportSim is the next game on the list, courtesy of MS Games and MK Studios.

]]> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 15:21:58 GMT https://screenrant.com/airportsim-game-review/ Riot Forge has been plenty busy with their creative expanded riffs on the heroes and culture of League of Legends’ lore. Song of Nunu: A League of Legends Story takes the wintry paired heroes into their own narrative platformer, with an all-ages adventurous journey through the snow-covered Freljord that explores some of the central motivations referenced in the characters’ bios.

]]> Mon, 30 Oct 2023 07:00:22 GMT https://screenrant.com/song-nunu-league-legends-story-pc-review/ Galvanic Games’ Wizard With A Gun is a relaxing and breezy collectathon to pad out these colder months, mixing casual crafty survival with isometric action and exploration. Dig any deeper into its composite parts, though, and its gameplay limitations and weird structure become more apparent, in spite of an adorably animated presentation and style. Players guide their wizard through five different biomes, accomplishing near-identical tasks in each, all while subject to a fairly unimpactful time constraint as the only real challenge to speak of. Calling this game a roguelite is arguably missing the point of its central hook: collect every possible variety of mats, process and organize them back at the base, roll out, rinse, and repeat.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 21:03:51 GMT https://screenrant.com/wizard-with-gun-pc-review/ EA Sports has delivered a bloody good time with UFC 5, a title that truly feels like a new-gen experience in the octagon. EA has given the MMA Simulator series a few years off since UFC 4's 2020 release, and it's paid off significantly. In that time, a new game engine has helped UFC 5 become the most realistic-looking fighter on the market that is incredibly satisfying to play and easy for newcomers to enjoy.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 16:00:20 GMT https://screenrant.com/ufc-5-ps5-review/ Terminator: Resistance - Complete Edition is the final version of the 2019 Terminator: Resistance game and subsequent DLCs for the Xbox X/S. The Complete Edition brings Infiltrator Mode and Annihilation Line To The Xbox, two long-awaited and highly-requested additions by fans of the original release. Developed by Teyon and published by Reef Entertainment, Terminator: Resistance - Complete Edition essentially serves as a discounted update to the base game, adding the improved graphics from the Enhanced Edition and the four-hour Annihilation Line side campaign and Infiltrator Mode to the console.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:43:36 GMT https://screenrant.com/terminator-resistance-complete-edition-xsx-review/ It's been 13 years since Alan sank to the depths of the lake that's not a lake, but an ocean made of darkness that he'd hoped he could contain. On the surface, the town of Bright Falls seemed to return to normal thanks to Alan's sacrifice, but something sinister was coming to life in the woods of Cauldron Lake. To immediately establish the horror focus of this sequel, Alan Wake 2 opens with a mysterious ritualistic murder in the woods surrounding Cauldron Lake. The identity of the murders and their reason for the murder is nothing short of a shocking mystery, one so mysterious that FBI Agents Saga Anderson and Alex Casey have come to investigate the strange developments of the seemingly quiet town.

]]> Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:00:18 GMT https://screenrant.com/alan-wake-2-ps5-review/ Dave the Diver is a great game. Most people know this by now - it's had overwhelmingly positive player feedback and an impressive review portfolio on top of that. Those who haven't been able to try it on PC but wanted a chance on Switch will find that the game remains great. Veterans who have been into the Blue Hole and back will benefit from the portability of the Switch and, alongside the relatively new content for the game that released earlier this month and low price, it makes sense to re-invest. All around, it's a port that feels right at home on Nintendo Switch.

]]> Wed, 25 Oct 2023 19:34:49 GMT https://screenrant.com/dave-diver-switch-review/ Kona has become something of a cult classic since its initial release in 2017, with its blend of walking sim, murder mystery, survival and classic adventure game building an interesting niche. The title certainly had some issues, with some obtuse puzzles and some raised eyebrows over the direction of its story, but it had fantastic atmosphere and a unique 1970s Quebec setting. Now, developer Parabole is back with Kona II: Brume, to revisit this story.

]]> Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:53:20 GMT https://screenrant.com/kona-2-brume-pc-review/ Sonic Superstars is the latest release from developers Arzest & Sonic Team, and publisher SEGA. Taking a step back from the open world of Sonic Frontiers, Sonic Superstars aims to bring players back to traditional 2D side-scrollers with a few new features and enhancements along the way.

]]> Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:36:22 GMT https://screenrant.com/sonic-superstars-switch-review/ Cities: Skylines 2 has a lot to live up to as a sequel to one of the best city-building games around. Although it doesn't have the benefit of all the DLC and mods yet, it is still off to an excellent start. Developed by Colossal Order and published by Paradox Interactive, the simulation game is a beautiful work of art with impressive graphics, fun radio stations, and an incredible array of tools for customizing and building cities. Clean and useful tutorials help make it not overwhelming despite the plethora of options in this very intricate game.

]]> Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:07:01 GMT https://screenrant.com/cities-skylines-2-review/ Konami's Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 delivers a jam-packed and pristine release of a storied franchise. Players who have wanted to dive into Hideo Kojima's beloved stealth action series have had a tough time doing so. Copyright issues took MGS2 and MGS3 off of digital stores, and the last time the games were sold physically was on Gen 3 systems in 2011. However, MGS:MCV1 provides nearly everything a player needs to get into the series.

]]> Tue, 24 Oct 2023 13:40:55 GMT https://screenrant.com/metal-gear-solid-master-collection-vol-1-ps5-review/ The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria takes the survival crafting genre into the dangerous mines of Middle-earth, reflavoring familiar elements with the charm of stouthearted dwarves and the threat of goblins, orcs, and worse. Developed by Free Range Games and published by North Beach Games, Return to Moria is positioned as a potential redemption for recent forays into Tolkien's world, as The Lord of the Rings: Gollum met with a strikingly negative reception earlier this year. Return to Moria doesn't quite find riches beneath the ground, but it does manage to avoid stumbling entirely on its way into the depths.

]]> Tue, 24 Oct 2023 13:00:16 GMT https://screenrant.com/lord-rings-return-moria-review-lotr-game/ Ghostrunner 2, from developer One More Level, combines fast ninja action, hardcore platforming, and a killer soundtrack to a game that feels twice as long as it should be. The original hit first-person platformer delighted players with its vibrant cyberpunk world and challenging levels that rewarded quick reflexes. Ghostrunner 2's one-hit death gameplay, parkour-centric level designs, and sci-fi story elements have all received drastic upgrades, but not all the additions help keep the game's pacing, which feels uneven.

]]> Mon, 23 Oct 2023 15:00:20 GMT https://screenrant.com/ghostrunner-2-pc-review/ Just Dance 2024 has a fairly solid track list and creative visuals, but microtransactions and lack of any real innovation from the previous year hold it back from being a truly exciting entry in the series. The long-running Ubisoft franchise has been around since 2009, and over the years has definitely received upgrades over time to its visuals, UI, and overall user experience. This latest edition keeps most of the same features players have come to expect from the series, but there have been no big leaps forward this time around.

]]> Mon, 23 Oct 2023 11:00:17 GMT https://screenrant.com/just-dance-2024-switch-review/ Sometimes it’s nice to play a bad guy. Whether it’s taking on the role of a villain by exploring the secrets of Fallout and being a thoroughly nasty piece of work, or being a not-so-benevolent creator in titles like The Sims series, there is something inherently fun about taking on the role of the antagonist now and again. Enter The Fabulous Fear Machine from developer Fictiorama Studios and AMC Games, which asks the player to bring about some very bad things in the world at large.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 19:00:38 GMT https://screenrant.com/fabulous-fear-machine-review/ Hot Wheels has been a part of the video game landscape since the 1980s, and these games have often helped give fans of the toy cars a chance to see their imaginations come to life. Most recently, Hot Wheels Unleashed took the franchise into gaming, and now developer Milestone is back with Hot Wheels Unleashed 2 - Turbocharged. As such, fans may well be expecting a step up from the previous entry.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 17:06:28 GMT https://screenrant.com/hot-wheels-unleashed-2-turbocharged-ps5-review/ Gargoyles Remastered is an exciting new revamp from the publisher Walt Disney Games and developer Empty Clip Studios for fans of the original 1995 version of the game. It features refined graphics that are faithful to the beloved animation series, as well as new gameplay features and soundtracks that are aimed to enhance the player experience.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:01:36 GMT https://screenrant.com/gargoyles-remastered-switch-review/ PAW Patrol World is the newest installment in the lineup of PAW Patrol games by developer 3D Clouds and Publisher Outright Games. Despite games for this franchise released before, PAW Patrol World brings something entirely new to the table with a completely open-world gameplay experience that could give young children their first, safe, opportunity to experience that level of freedom in gaming.

]]> Thu, 19 Oct 2023 00:56:14 GMT https://screenrant.com/paw-patrol-world-switch-review/ The Jackbox Party Pack 10 delivers a mostly solid lineup that covers an array of different gameplay styles, but there are a few instances where a title's concept sounds a bit more fun on paper than in actuality. Developer and publisher Jackbox Games has been creating beloved multiplayer minigames since 2014 like Quiplash and Fibbage, and this release as a whole really taps into a lot of what draws players to the franchise: chaos, silliness, and creativity. Existing fans of the series will likely enjoy this pack despite its flaws, and even for newcomers it presents several unique ways to have fun.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 16:00:31 GMT https://screenrant.com/jackbox-party-pack-10-review/ The Hellboy arc represents one of the great epics in comics, spanning three decades of imaginative historical pulp storytelling built upon the gorgeous art and iconic vision of creator Mike Mignola, but its explorations into other media have varied greatly in quality. Upstream Arcade's Hellboy Web of Wyrd stands as Big Red’s newest video game foray, an unsteady clunker of an action-roguelite which borrows from other genre classics but seemingly fails to understand the fundamentals of the greats, feeling like either an interrupted project or a mismanaged would-be gem.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 15:01:30 GMT https://screenrant.com/hellboy-web-wyrd-review/ Nintendo's newest addition to the Super Mario Bros. series, Super Mario Bros. Wonder certainly has the name right, as the game is a truly wondrous and magical experience for both series veterans and new fans. Launching on Nintendo Switch on October 20, Wonder is an absolute treasure that no-one should sleep on.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:00:33 GMT https://screenrant.com/super-mario-bros-wonder-review/ It’s one hour deep into a station dive before things take a sharp turn for the worse. Every teammate’s weapon is suddenly subpar, the wrong doors were opened, wrong buffs deactivated, and the crabby little crystal bot’s already suffered a beating. In Endless Dungeon — a modern refresh of 2014’s one-of-a-kind roguelite hybrid Dungeon of the Endless — things often go from routine rut to restart in the blink of an eye. It’s a dynamic aligned with the title’s front loaded high-challenge proposition, but its peculiar game feel and rhythms risk alienating trigger-happy players who’d prefer to get meaningfully stronger and OP every step of the way.

]]> Mon, 16 Oct 2023 14:00:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/endless-dungeon-pc-review/ Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is electric, telling a breakneck story of two protagonists and everyone in their immediate circle with continually escalating, incredibly crisp gameplay. Right from the outset, Spider-Man 2 feels as though it’s taken a significant step above its 2018 and 2020 predecessors. A large and varied cast of characters is impressively juggled while players are set loose as both Peter Parker and Miles Morales in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. City-wide spectacle is constantly juxtaposed with intimate, character-driven moments, all underpinned by the truly unsettling emergence of the alien symbiote hoping to reach the height of its potential as Venom.

]]> Mon, 16 Oct 2023 14:00:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/marvels-spider-man-2-review/ Lords of the Fallen marks one of the most interesting releases this year, as it is rebooting a title from 2014 that never quite found its footing among audiences. Like the 2014 release of the same name, Lords of the Fallen is a Soulslike action RPG set in a dark fantasy world, pitting players against all manner of monsters, corrupted humans, and ancient gods. That's about all it shares with its predecessor though, as this release clearly seeks out to establish a new identity for the series, and it succeeds in doing so.

]]> Thu, 12 Oct 2023 13:16:47 GMT https://screenrant.com/lords-fallen-ps5-review/ EA Sports has not always had the best reputation on the Nintendo Switch, and that comes down to the FIFA games. Year after year, FIFA received a 'Legacy Edition' that embodied the criticism often aimed at the sports franchise: a reskin of the previous year's game, in outdated technology. With EA Sports losing the FIFA license and rebranding as EA Sports FC, this was an opportunity for a fresh start altogether.

]]> Tue, 10 Oct 2023 15:03:01 GMT https://screenrant.com/ea-sports-fc-24-switch-review/ At first glance, Station to Station doesn't look like much with its voxel-style graphics and minimalist approach that can make it appear fairly plain. With a closer look, however, it becomes clear developer Galaxy Grove has created a truly enjoyable puzzle game with music that helps players unwind for a bit and puzzles that are challenging yet approachable. It gives a practically Zen-like approach to the genre, perfect for sitting down with a cup of tea while enjoying the music and soothing graphic qualities that it offers.

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:20:40 GMT https://screenrant.com/station-to-station-pc-review/ Detective Pikachu Returns is the sequel to the bizarre but beloved Pokémon spin-off that also spawned a movie of the same name. While it does more than enough to justify its existence as a follow-up effort, it also struggles to capitalize on some of the good will the movie earned for the property, instead reverting to a more childish, simplistic narrative and systems.

]]> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:01:27 GMT https://screenrant.com/detective-pikachu-returns-review/ Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a triumphant homage to its earliest predecessors, but it still suffers from issues endemic to the series. The stealth action game from Ubisoft Bordeaux is singularly engaging and refreshing in its constricted scope; still, tiresome trends from the series at large return, making key components of its story vapid distractions from its true strengths. While Mirage is clearly built upon the back of 2020's AC Valhalla, that foundation has been morphed into an experience heavily reminiscent of the original Assassin’s Creed from 2007. Mirage is a more than worthwhile entry to the long-running saga in its own right, but it also shows that the original vision of the series still has immense potential.

]]> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 11:00:26 GMT https://screenrant.com/assassins-creed-mirage-review/ The Forza series has been the go-to racing series for Xbox players since all the way back in 2005, and in spite of various challengers nothing else has quite compared. Along the way, gamers have also been introduced to the Forza Horizon series, with an expansive approach to racing in a series that is always improving. Now, Turn 10 Studios is back with Forza Motorsport, returning to the core franchise.

]]> Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:06:29 GMT https://screenrant.com/forza-motorsport-xbox-review/ The Pixel Ripped series has maintained a consistent following while existing mostly under the radar, keeping perfect pace with new upgrades in VR gaming technology while sticking to its core retro throwback principles over a trio of releases. Pixel Ripped 1995 is the second title in the series, which now enjoys a spiffy PSVR2 update delivering smoother gameplay and some new features for Sony’s flagship headset. For millennial and adjacent gamers who grew up in the wood-paneled television age, Pixel Ripped 1995 hits that sweet spot of nostalgic resonance and good-vibes adventure, even though some of its best ideas could use a little more expansion and attention.

]]> Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:01:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/pixel-ripped-1995-psvr2-review/ Minecraft x Dungeons & Dragons is a new collaborative DLC between Everbloom Games and Wizards of the Coast. With its dungeon-crawling gameplay and iconic locations from the Forgotten Realms, it's a surprisingly immersive experience that actually feels like DnD. It also works as a nice family-friendly alternative to Baldur's Gate 3.

]]> Mon, 02 Oct 2023 17:18:18 GMT https://screenrant.com/minecraft-x-dungeons-dragons-review/ High on Life made a big splash last year, turning a colorful singleplayer comedy FPS packed with irreverent scatological sketches into an XBOX Game Pass hit download. Players traversed an open world, tangled with goopy aliens, and plundered self-referential gaming tropes in Squanch Games’ largest project to date, which still left ample space for a follow-up. High on Knife is now High on Life’s first paid DLC, offering up a new planet to explore, a few additional talking weapons and, frankly, more of the same hit-or-miss gags. While it hardly reinvents the original and can be completed in less than afternoon, its reduced scope helps the narrative and atmosphere cohere a little better, and the humor's more hit than miss on this outing.

]]> Mon, 02 Oct 2023 16:53:56 GMT https://screenrant.com/high-life-high-knife-dlc-review/ Monster Hunter Now is a mobile adaptation of the popular monster hunting franchise, and it's a simplified venture into a usually complex setting. Niantic, the developer most known for Pokémon GO, has created a similar AR game in collaboration with Capcom. This new addition to the Monster Hunter lineup is an opportunity to make the game even more accessible to those who enjoy the convenience of mobile gaming.

]]> Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:01:46 GMT https://screenrant.com/monster-hunter-now-review/ Let's get this out of the way - EA Sports FC 24 is a solid game. As far as soccer simulators go, it's got the sort of graphical prowess you'd expect from a juggernaut like EA, alongside access to character models and club representations that make it a go-to for real-life fans of the sport. By all accounts, should this be someone's first experience with a soccer game over the past several years, they'd probably be outright amazed at the quality. If that's you - EA Sports FC 24 is a must-play.

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 20:34:20 GMT https://screenrant.com/ea-sports-fc-24-ps5-review/ It's really been an exciting era for puzzle games. Whether it's unraveling the mystery of the thematically challenging Immortality or the moving experience of Unpacking, video game players have had plenty of opportunities for varied experiences that test their thinking. Enter Cocoon, from Annapurna Interactive and Geometric Interactive, with another chance for gamers to expand their minds.

]]> Thu, 28 Sep 2023 16:00:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/cocoon-game-pc-review/ At first glance, The Lamplighters League can look like an XCOM game transplanted to a pulp history setting, but this tactics title is more than just a fresh coat of paint. Developed by Harebrained Schemes and published by Paradox Interactive, the game tasks an eclectic group of agents with challenging infiltration missions in the name of saving the world. With a strong array of clever ideas that feed into each other well, The Lamplighters League wears its influences on its sleeve while managing to stand out on its own as an intriguing strategic experience.

]]> Thu, 28 Sep 2023 13:00:23 GMT https://screenrant.com/lamplighters-league-pc-review/ The Separate Ways DLC for Resident Evil 4 Remake is a nice reason to return to one of 2023's best remakes, but it isn't really worth buying unless you're just really, really invested in what Ada was doing the whole time. It's more RE4 Remake, and if the prospect of that excites you then there is absolutely no reason not to check it out. Weird that it costs $9.99 now when it originally came for free with every copy of Resident Evil 4, though (barring the original GameCube release, which didn't get it at all).

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 18:15:18 GMT https://screenrant.com/re4-separate-ways-dlc-review-ps5/ Silent Hope is an upcoming isometric dungeon-crawler ARPG that features a somewhat roguelite feeling mixed with an emotionally charged story and cartoony graphics. The game is developed by Marvelous and published by XSEED Games - the same companies that are known for the Rune Factory and Story of Seasons games. In fact, Silent Hope is loosely set within the Rune Factory universe, and many of the monsters and elements are shared between them, with many nods to Story of Seasons, including the very recognizable art style and beloved cows of that series.

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 15:01:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/silent-hope-switch-review/ Infinity Strash: DRAGON QUEST The Adventure of Dai is a video game based on an anime based on a video game series, which means it borrows elements from both, but feels more like the former than the latter. That being said, knowing a lot about the Dragon Quest franchise or the Adventure of Dai anime (or manga) isn't really necessary for this experience. Featuring some of the iconic monsters and spells from Dragon Quest, Infinity Strash is more of an anime recap than a game, which is a bit unfortunate considering just how excellent the actual gameplay is.

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/infinity-strash-dragon-quest-adventure-of-dai-review/ Paleo Pines brings a lot of new ideas to the farming and life simulation genre by virtue of its dinosaur-centric mechanics, but less than ideal graphics and lack of depth in some areas sometimes overshadows the game's good ideas. The title is developed by Italic Pig and will published by Modus Games, which has previously helped with releases like Teslagrad and Cris Tales. There are certainly elements of fun to be found in Paleo Pines, but it's a game that can be hard to fully warm up to and be immersed in.

]]> Tue, 26 Sep 2023 07:06:26 GMT https://screenrant.com/paleo-pines-pc-review/ Mineko's Night Market presents an adorable blend of crafting, stealth, and silliness in an artistically-inspired world, but it's sometimes brought down by bugs and overly-simple mechanics. Night Market is the debut title from developer Meowza Games and is being published by Humble Games. Despite some moments of tedium, the game does an excellent job of cultivating a cozy and inviting environment, and while the story it tells isn't a complex one, it's still an experience that will be worthwhile for many players.

]]> Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:01:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/minekos-night-market-pc-review/ Horizon Chase 2 almost feels like a love letter to classic 1990s arcade racing games, and if that's the premise, then it is excellently executed. It offers exactly what one would expect from an arcade racing game in today's world with smooth crossplay multiplayer options, a solo campaign mode, and the ability to collect fun cars and race on unique and beautiful tracks. The catchy synth music, brightly colored graphics, and easy-to-learn gameplay mechanics make it exactly what an arcade racing game should be.

]]> Mon, 25 Sep 2023 05:10:22 GMT https://screenrant.com/horizon-chase-2-pc-review/ Not long after the completion of their biggest heist and quiet transition into retirement, Payday 3 sees the infamous Payday Gang forced back into the crime scene. It appears like someone that the gang has wronged in the past is seeking revenge, as the game's opening moment reveals that an explosion nearly took out five of them. Despite failing, the gang's accounts have been frozen and seized, leaving them broke and revealing a greater conspiracy. To fight back, the gang carries out a number of heists and operations to both uncover who all is behind this and bring them down.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/payday-3-pc-review/ Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty may be the last of V's story, but it's a step towards a brighter future for CD Projekt Red. The expansion is both the first and last for the futuristic RPG, which is set in Mike Pondsmith's Cyberpunk universe - and after the game's less-than-ideal launch in late 2020, its announcement sowed both seeds of curiosity and doubt. Even though it's not quite flawless in its execution, Phantom Liberty delivers its promise with an excellent story, engrossing gameplay, and quality-of-life improvements that make Cyberpunk 2077 the game it always should've been.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 15:00:29 GMT https://screenrant.com/cyberpunk-2077-phantom-liberty-dlc-review/ Moonstone Island is a new cozy life-sim game that features a creature-collecting twist, and it manages to pack a lot of content to explore into a little Indie game. Developed by Studio Supersoft and published by Raw Fury, the game offers players well over 40 hours of relaxing gameplay that can continue even after the story has finished. It includes all the farming, crafting, decorating, and romancing of NPCs that are commonly thought of with a cozy sim, but blends it all with flying, magic, exploration, card-based combat, and creature-collecting.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 14:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/moonstone-island-pc-review/ Broken Edge wants to be VR’s end-all be-all 1v1 sword-fighting game, and its one-of-a-kind approach to combat is a strong sell. This new ported version arrives to the PlayStation VR2 with an additional playable character, but otherwise seems comparable to its previous VR platforms, with some limited training gameplay that sets things up for the main event of its online PVP. While its scant singleplayer content and limited bells and whistles may strain first impressions, Broken Edge primarily succeeds thanks to its limited comparable competition in the space and idiosyncratic gameplay, which is certainly not cut out for all-comers.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:20:21 GMT https://screenrant.com/broken-edge-psvr2-review/ The Swordman Studio's Wandering Sword is an interesting release in the current gaming landscape, as it hits on two distinct trends that have been on the rise lately. The first is the return of turn-based RPGs, whether they be retro-inspired games like Sea of Stars and Octopath Traveler 2, or more contemporary styles like Baldur's Gate 3. Wandering Sword takes after the former but with a contemporary twist in its visuals and a unique cultural foundation. The second trend is the rise of games based in Chinese history and mythology.

]]> Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:45:37 GMT https://screenrant.com/wandering-sword-pc-review/ NBA 2K24 is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the virtual basketball franchise. Developed by Visual Concepts and published by 2K Games, NBA 2K is known for creating the most authentic NBA simulation games every year. This year the newly added ProPLAY feature takes actual NBA footage and applies it to many of the animations in the game, which adds a lot to immersion, particularly when combined with the fun commentary and cutscenes that are smooth and polished.

]]> Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:19:08 GMT https://screenrant.com/nba-2k24-ps5-review/ Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: The Teal Mask DLC is a breezy new addition to the Gen 9 games, taking trainers to the land of Kitakami for a folklore-inspired tale about a mysterious ogre and the island's three protectors. Pokémon is, overall, a critic-proof franchise, and anyone who enjoyed the base games will enjoy the DLC. However, anyone who found the performance issues too distracting, or felt let down by Scarlet and Violet's mechanics, won't be won over by what Teal Mask offers either. Regardless, the Teal Mask DLC is a fun foray into a new area - and its storytelling and characters are really where it shines.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/pokemon-scarlet-violet-teal-mask-dlc-review-performance/ Mortal Kombat 1 is a comic book movie set in the Warner Bros. Cinematic Universe based on the fighting game series Mortal Kombat. Developed by Netherrealm Studios, Mortal Kombat 1 follows directly from the events of Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath and explores the new universe Liu Kang created after gaining control of Kronika's Hourglass. Unfortunately but not unsurprisingly, this new universe ends up being way too similar to the first, and doesn't do much to push the series forward despite being perfectly enjoyable to play.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:00:24 GMT https://screenrant.com/mortal-kombat-1-review-ps5/ Agatha Christie - Hercule Poirot: The London Case is developer Blazing Griffin's second go at a game based on the fictional Belgian detective, following up 2021's Hercule Poirot: The First Cases. Published by Microids, these games aim to tell a prequel narrative of Poirot's earlier work, forging out into new territory rather than directly adapting any of Christie's stories. The First Cases showed some promise, but it was hampered by systems and constraints that failed to work to its benefit. Although The London Case makes some strides toward improvement, it steps backward in other regards to create an ultimately frustrating experience.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:54:03 GMT https://screenrant.com/agatha-christie-hercule-poirot-london-case-review/ If one is to set out on a quest of vengeance that requires fighting the occult, mercenaries, giant rats, and corrupt police, then they must wield one of the world's most powerful weapons: a shotgun attached to an umbrella. From developer Doinksoft and publisher Devolver Digital comes Gunbrella, a pixel-art 2D action platformer about an ordinary man fighting through extraordinary and often ridiculous forces to satisfy his vengeance. There are a number of rough moments in this journey, intentional and otherwise, but the beautiful western-inspired art, unique gameplay, and snappy pacing make it an addictive adventure that's hard to put down.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:00:25 GMT https://screenrant.com/gunbrella-pc-review/ If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Lies of P is an incredibly earnest compliment. Neowiz Games and Round8 Studios have created a game which leans heavily on the conventions notably established by the ever-influential catalog of FromSoftware. In particular, Lies of P feels most inspired by Bloodborne and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, but this isn't to say that Lies of P is derivative. Its practical mimicry is so thorough and convincing that it's something of an ideal soulslike, capturing not only the idiosyncrasies of its progenitors, but also some of their pitfalls.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 15:00:21 GMT https://screenrant.com/lies-p-game-review/ The cuteness potential of axolotls remains woefully underutilized in modern gaming, an issue which new action-roguelite AK-xolotl seeks to resolve. It’s a firearm-filled cute’em up about everyone’s favorite critically endangered neotenic amphibian, mixing the shooter mechanics of formative classic roguelite Nuclear Throne with some light cooking and baby maintenance mechanics. From its origins as a successful Kickstarter project to its full release, the final result feels a little like a game jam entry or a test case for a more expansive project, but AK-xolotl remains a nice way to scratch the itch between more substantive action-roguelite pursuits.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:05:23 GMT https://screenrant.com/ak-xolotyl-review/