While The Banner Saga is an incredibly pretty game with a stirring soundtrack, the gameplay leaves a lot to be desired. In fact, I would've preferred it if they just made the game into a visual novel since at least they would've been able to introduce multiple endings dependent on character interactions. Ultimately, it's just a numbers game and 95% of the game is inconsequential. All that matters is how well you do in the very difficult final battle and that's it. Would I recommend people to buy this game? Only if you're really good at turn-based tactics games or you appreciate a beautifully crafted but almost linear story (just be sure to play it on Easy difficulty if you're not used to strategy games). Would I purchase the sequel? Only if Austin Wintory is doing the soundtrack since I'm not going to lie, his soundtrack is probably one of the only reasons I ended up buying The Banner Saga in the first place.
The Wolf Among Us is the shortest Telltale adventure game series I've played so far but it's turned out to be one of my favourites. Its unique setting with downtrodden fairy tale characters living in an 80s New York (courtesy of Bill Willingham's Fables) seems to be a perfect match for an adventure game - or a visual novel with Quick Time Events (which I believe is a more accurate description of Telltale's adventure games from the past couple of years). Is it better than The Walking Dead? I personally think so, but only because I like solving murder mysteries. Both games are good in their own right but while one explores the human condition against a backdrop of zombie apocalypse, the other provides a grittier, seedier epilogue to fairy tale characters we grew up learning about as kids.
The over-the-top violence in Hotline Miami might turn those of you away who don't like violent games but if you're able to stomach it, you'll notice there's actually more to the game than meets the eye thanks to its stealth/puzzle elements. You'll need a combination of wits and lightning reflexes, and you'll often find yourself cursing at how frustrating the game is at times, but with great difficulty comes a great sense of achievement when completing the levels. Combine these qualities with an awesome soundtrack inspired by music from the 80s and 90s and you'll want to keep playing this game to the end.
For those put off by Driftmoon's basic 3D graphics, I would urge them to try and judge the game for its plot and gameplay. While the production values are not going to be as high as your typical AAA titles, Instant Kingdom has done a great job in providing a charming, accessible, indie CRPG that everyone can enjoy. If you don't end up liking the story though, there's always the available modding tools you can use to create your own adventures to share with friends and the public alike.
Risk of Rain is like FTL's younger platformer cousin with the added bonus of multiplayer. Like FTL, this game is difficult and it will take multiple playthroughs before you make any headway. Also like FTL, the journey can be heaps of fun especially if you manage to get some of your friends along for the ride. It's not the most polished of games out there but if you're willing to be patient with its shortcomings Risk of Rain is a game well worth checking out.
If you're uncertain about paying a few dollars for this game, you could always try the demo... wait, there's a demo? For a 1.5 hour game? But seriously, this is a game with a mature plot that touches existentialism, losing faith and what it means to be a Jew. Even though the game is short and a bit rough around the edges (even with the remastered edition) I think it's worth the few dollars Dave Gilbert is asking for. Also, what's with point 'n' click adventure game designers sharing the surname "Gilbert"?
The story, music and puzzles are what hold this game together - it's just a shame about the poor animations and low resolution graphics. If you can overlook the graphical flaws you've got a pretty good mystery adventure game on your hands. And with Jane Jensen at the helm, why wouldn't it be?
