Steamworld dig is one of those game that, even if there are a complete masterpiece, still manages to lay foundation for those game that will come after. Not that the game itself is bad or anything: it does have a nice and quiet unique gameplay, where you have to 'dig' (quite straightforward with that title) deeper and deeper until you reach...well, the end. It's not complicated, and the game even managed to end before getting stale. Besides that, it's a nice little story with western themes and robots. However, although the ideas are really good and were implemented decently, the game does have some little issues, like being so simple that after a while, even considering that the game can be finished in one day, it gets stale (as said before). This is the main reason I decided to give this game three stars grade instead of 4. Still, a total yes! even if you are of that much of a fan of this kind of game, weirdly enough it is high entertaining.
Sin gold, a sort-of cult game for those who had the pleasure to experience it when it came out (the game already had its issues back there) and for those who play it now... actually still an enjoyable game, but definitely not a masterpiece. Gameplay wise, the devs had good ideas, but it didn't manage to implement them in a correct fashion. Basically, mostly good level design (mostly) and good shooting (again, mostly) but with some issues on some enemy type and their hitboxes (and sniper... brrrrr). There are also some interesting features (for the time), such as aiming different parts of the body and having different effects and damage's output... while others, like stealth sessions, are not that great (despite being few). On top of that, Gog did even release the expansion pack with some good maps (hear hear, mostly). Speaking of the rest, story is the classic 90's action movie (with all sexism and cheesy puns included...nothing terrible but still), with a good soundtrack to go by it. Plus, the wobbly graphics is actually pretty endearing (at least, this is my personal taste). So... worth it? actually, it's (.... MOSTLY!) a solid yes! the game, despite its flaws, does have a sort of vibe or whatever, which makes the game actually enjoyable!... most(ly) of the time!
I must admit, I didn't play it when it came out, so that's why I don't get the fan-base around this game. Still, it is a nice fantapolitical 3rth person shooter with some solid A.I. capable of thinking for themselves. Gameplay wise, it's not that great as a shooter but it gets the job mostly done, meanwhile the real focus of the action is commanding a squad of rebels throughout an invaded Nord America, which the developers managed to make them, y'know, not stupid (unlike most games at the time... and even now, actually). Other than that, story is... ok. Not that great (I mean, if you are here for the story, this is not your game), acting and pacing is awful, but I guess the game it is not meant to be taken seriously. Soundtrack is good, though. So, worth it? mmmm yeees, but mostly if you are a fan of early 2000's console game, if you are not... you can still try it out but don't expect a masterpiece.
The game is astonishing... if it were the original version, not this sorry port (from tablet!). At the current state the game lacks the many presents in the original... soooooo nope. If you want to experience it, you have to experienced right!
Quirky, recognizable and funny: Dungeon Keeper 2 is one the most beautiful depiction of an 'Evil Lord' simulation of all time. As a... welp, technically it's a strategy game, and there is a little bit of strategy. But in actuality for the majority of time you'll be digging and constructing your liar. Furthermore, the Managment of your minions shall be a key part in this game. I really like the idea of not being able to controller them directly... although you can still pick them up, smack them around (as a true D&D BBEG), rally them or directly possess them through the use special spells at your disposal (yes, you can control them but it's not like clicking around and directly see your order carried out). As far as story and design go, they are done in a satirical way and have that particularly jovial humour of the age (90's) which is quite enjoyable. So, worth buying? As one the masterpiece of the past and as a true classic of the entirety of the genre (still unbeaten), and also considering that to this day is still fresh, enjoyable and a blast to play... yes? go buy it now... It's a Keeper! (yuck)
Zombie night terror is easily one of the quirky games out there, with a lot of style and pixelated horror. Basically, it is a strategy game where you shall guide the horde to the next dinner. It has multiple types of zombies, a good number of different maps and enemies and a lot of humour, style and references. So, yes! an indie masterpiece definitely worth buying!
'Cuz in practice, unfortunately, this Diablo clone couldn't achieve its goals. Basically, they started with the Diablo clone thing and then decided to add party management with a little bit of strategy, which is completely useless. Furthermore, the party management in a game where there isn't a stop time function, fast-decision making is required, and most fights are over in a matter of seconds isn't really that great of an idea. Yes, it's nice to deviate from the formula, but you got to do it right. For the Japanese settings, again, good but nothing mind-blowing. Every chances for a dark setting was completely thrown overboard after seen the cartoonish introduction to the game. So, nothing to write home about. Doesn't mean, however, that the game is bad. If any feature described here may attract you, go right ahead. it is still an enjoyable game.
Welp, boiz and girlz, it's the original! sooooo there isn't really a need to explain more than that. Sure, in contrast with Morrowind, Oblivion and Skyrim, this game is completely different in gameplay (and map size, albeit being way emptier than the newer ones) and, together with Daggerfall, signifies another era of videogaming: an era more open in choices of characters and paths, perfect for roleplaying but at the same time the game might result a little repetitive in some department. Anyway, the actual grade for many of you that should try out this old masterpiece could be 3 stars rather than 5 (it didn't age too well) but for the hardcore gamers, the one that truly appreciate freedom, it is STILL an easy 5. So, even if you like the new direction of the series, it is not bad to actually play that started it all. A game that still manages to give that sense of adventure and wonder, typical of all games of this astonishing saga.
Severance: blade of darkness is what a call 'a specular oddity'. Let's start immediately by talking about the cons: a terrible fighting system, an atrocious camera, levels are confusing and, last but not least, story is a little cliché. And now the pros! An engaging, mind-blowing (for its time) and a pillar of the genre (of the Dark soul genre, people!) combat system, various option for the camera, level design is extremely well done, with intricate and multiple-paths maps and, last but not least, the story is told in a fascinating and well-done manner, where it is up to the player navigate further into secret areas in order to discover the truth... See what I mean when I say this game's an oddity? In my opinion, the game manages to be this good 'cuz it is not meant to be played as a 'normal' video game, but as an adventure, where every decision matters, doesn't matter which. Trust me, this is the first time playing this and at the start I was ready to abandon it, then when finally I dwell deep into the mountains or castles or what not, I found myself completely immerse in a true fantasy adventure, and not some third-grade button smashing Hero-almighty videogame. Here, the joy of playing is all about overcoming obstacles and using wits and tactics in order to win against the odds... Soooo, yes! totally in love with it (sure, it does have some bugs, so get used to have multiple saves) and cannot recommend it enough. Remember, it is not about the goal, it is about the jouney!
Thea the awekening is a nice take on the 4x strategic genre: the game manages to implement a card mechanic into its system that covers not only battle but other activities as well. Other than that, I must admit I found the game a little too.... basic. Among the other ''managerial'' games I played, Thea falls short: the entirety of the premises, the way the game deals with resources collection and other features.. are not bad, but not great either. So, is it a yes or no? it's a meh. If you are an hard core fan of the genre, or looking for something different, give it a try. If not.. well, you can still play, but don't expect a masterpiece.
