HammerkopCross
Inherently more fun than REMAKE, solely due to where it takes place in Final Fantasy VII's story, but as a result of trying to feel epic near the end it has some tonal whiplash it can't avoid. A lot of minigames as well, and I wish these were more seamlessly woven into the world as opposed to always feeling like discrete distractions (it doesn't help that Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth did this better earlier this year).
Otherwise, it's some of the best combat in the series, visually vibrant, and has a narrative that's just propulsive enough to keep things moving if you avoid going down the side content rabbit hole.
Otherwise, it's some of the best combat in the series, visually vibrant, and has a narrative that's just propulsive enough to keep things moving if you avoid going down the side content rabbit hole.
2021
Some jank on Xbox One, and not a particularly fun game to play. But you're probably not coming to it for any of that. It's super stylish, evoking a lot of noir and Saul Bass in a way that keeps things engaging throughout. Jazz soundtrack is great as well, especially in some of the later chapters where it comes front and center.
Not the worst way to spend a few hours as this is a brief, easily digestible experience.
Not the worst way to spend a few hours as this is a brief, easily digestible experience.
2021
Fantastic aesthetic that works in tandem with the game's story. Often gets a bit too obtuse, but the largest element holding the game back is that it never really feels like it has much care for its combat or desire to really do much with it. Pads itself out and by the end just kind of wears out its welcome to the point that even the final boss fight feels uninspired.
Enjoyed my time with it, but leaves a stronger first impression than it is able to sustain itself.
Enjoyed my time with it, but leaves a stronger first impression than it is able to sustain itself.
2021
As a package including all the previous levels, this is immense. Story wraps up really nicely, paying off something that I didn't know I needed paid off until Hitman 2. Fantastic level design with plenty of sandbox antics to be had. Feels very iterative though, and not much has changed between games.
2021
Quaint and inoffensive with some very good voice acting.
I've bounced off this game so many times since it launched for a variety of reasons, but finally got through this and honestly, it's solid action once it gets going. Story is fine, mostly hampered by a lot of video gamey stuff that takes you out of the immersion.
2021
Like someone found a 360 cover shooter at the back of Square Enix's warehouse collecting dust, popped it in and said "Well, let's add some loot and repeatable quests to give players something to do then ship this thing". Surprisingly, that actually works. Feels good to play and the idea of tying class abilities to healing works really well.