This is a much better game than its predecessor, but I can't help but feel like it lost some of its uniqueness in becoming that better game. You can feel those five years between games, and what came out during them. Let's start with the positives, movement is much better. Triple jumping and being able to stick to walls help mitigate some weird movement, and launch is such a fun ability. Combat is better too, you have more options than you did in the first game.

I think I prefer the story of the first game, but the beginning and ending sequences in this game were both beautiful and touching. However, having NPCS to talk to did nothing for me. They feel tacked on, this game is always strongest when there are no words. Their quest system and purchasing upgrades instead of having a skill tree also feels tacked on, more an obligation than something that really suits the game. It's very... video gamey. And there's nothing wrong with video gamey, I love video games, but it's out of place here in Ori's world of beautiful simplicity.

It's frustrating when there are two pieces of art that could become something more fantastic than either of them if they just married their best traits (the 2003 FMA anime and the manga/Brotherhood is my go-to example) and I think this is another case of that. Ori is best enjoyed one game after the other I feel.

Gears of War: Ultimate Edition is a fantastic remaster that brings the classic cover-shooting action to a new generation. The visuals are stunning, completely overhauling the original game's look, and the new campaign chapters add some welcome story content. The core gameplay of strategically taking cover and blasting Locusts with your Lancer chainsaw rifle is still as satisfying as ever. While some might find the difficulty a bit unforgiving on higher settings, and the multiplayer feels a bit dated compared to modern shooters, this is a must-play for any fan of the series or those who want a balls-to-the-wall action experience.