ZTGD

Devils Third has had a very hard life, and it’s nothing short of a miracle that the game ever even released. While some might lament that fact, I’m actually happy to see games of this nature release. It’s not open world, it’s not amazing in its story or setting, it’s not triple A. Yet its gameplay is a unique hybrid indeed, and I’d love to see more companies or teams try their hand at this combination, it’s just that satisfying.

The problem I have with Holiday Star as a visual novel is the fact that the storytelling is, unfortunately, pretty weak. I did not feel remotely immersed in the stories and there was nothing to truly ingratiate me as a player – and I use that term literally in the sense of a person sitting down to play a game – in terms of my ability to interact with, influence, or even care about the narrative and its outcome.

Chivalry: Medieval Warfare is not a good game. Perhaps if there was a single player campaign, some competent combat, or even some unique online modes, it might be redeeming, but as it stands it is a textbook example of how to ruin a great idea. I imagine the online community also died in the time it took me to write this review, so I guess my best advice would be to stay as far away from this game as possible.

An additional mechanic during the game is the use of boss battles. During these levels, the objective is the same. Part way through these levels though, both power cores disappear and I must work together with my opponent to defeat the boss, but once defeated, I go back to annihilating my opponent. These bosses are challenging and unique, each with their own style, attacks and fantastically themed music.

If you like squashing bugs on the co, playing online with friends, and just having a good arcade like experience, this is one title that should be added to your Vita line up. There is just a ton of missions to play, lots of weapon unlocks, and if this is a title that hits it off with the player, they will find hours of content, perfect for those handheld bite sized moments.

Helldivers is held back from an even higher score by the fact that it is, ultimately, fairly isolating for the solo player. However, Arrowhead Game Studios have still created a wonderfully entertaining game here; one that performs best when its brilliant cooperative elements are fully embraced.

Even for comedic value, I would still not suggest the $8 price tag. While not broken, the game is boring, uninspired, and plain ugly. Offering no co-op at all means even if you wanted to Mystery Science Theater the game, it would be a boring mess. Steer clear of Rock Zombie. It’s not undead. It’s just dead altogether.

Pokémon Picross is still a very competent Sudoku game and the added layer of “catching ‘em all” is fun and offers a bit more to the core experience. The “free to start” angle is an interesting one and one that I really don’t mind. It’s all up to the player if they want to play more, and I enjoyed what I did play. It’s free to try and if you enjoy what you play, there’s a ton of content to be had and puzzles to be solved.

Animal Crossing: amiibo Festival could have been really fun. But the lack of things to do during the main game hinder it so badly. The reason why Mario Party is so beloved is because of the crazy variety of action available on offer as you’re running around the board. It’s the thing that lets this game down the most.

There isn’t much else to say about the game, but I cannot recommend it enough. Fans of those types of racing games will be in awe of what Shin’en has accomplished here. I know it is cliché to say, but please give this team the rights to make a new F-Zero game. Fast Racing NEO is the closest and best thing to happen to the genre in years. This is one game not to sleep on.