I'm very mixed on the Last of Us Part II. I find much of it flawed and I absolutely despise its pacing. But I am not going to act like there aren't moments that I find incredible and pretend that this is anywhere near a bad game. I said so as much in my original pro/con review of the 2020 release.

I truly believe after listening to the Director Commentary and checking out much of the behind the scenes stuff that this game succeeded in what it set out to do. It is an evocative experience that didn't play it safe and got the mixed reactions that only art can provide. That doesn't absolve it from being criticized, but there is a right and wrong way to do that.

We all know that poor faith criticism has been thrown it's way from the moment the game was leaked. To a lesser extent there has also been moments of downplaying or "talking down" to individuals by those who do consider the game a masterpiece. I think what we can all take away form this is that the discourse regarding the Last of Us Part II has been pathetic. It is genuinely not fun to talk about this game with most people. It almost rivals Star Wars discourse.....Almost.

All of this culminating to this re-release. We've seen this before and it is nothing new. Many PS3/360 era games received the remaster/rerelease treatment when the PS4 and Xbox One were in their infant years. Hell my favorite game of all time is a re-release version. I think the way Naughty Dog went about this version was fair. $10 upgrade or buy the boxed product for 49.99 US Dollars. I liked The Last of Us Part 1 remake but I felt $70 for a game we all played felt a little much for just a graphics update. For this to be priced this way, to include the No Return mode and the behind the scenes content? I think is fine. Originally I felt sour for my purchase of the upgrade but I've put enough time in the additional content to feel I justified my $10.

To sum up my thoughts on No Return, I really like playing it but it is far from perfect. Its progression, difficulty spread and variety is severely lacking. I've seen the same maps, same weapon upgrade animations, and same enemy patterns that I am seeing maybe too many runs play out the same way. Despite that I am still playing it at the time of this review because I like the combat. Aside from Joel and Tommy, whose lack of dodge makes them feel inferior player options, the tense survivor horror gunplay of playing this game on survival difficulty is incredible. Fuck Grounded but that is also fun too.

I'm choosing to rate this version higher than I did the original. While I still will say I don't like a good portion of this game, if any part of this clicks with you I think this version is an upgrade. I do hope however this is the last remaster/re-release we see from Naughty Dog for a while. Since 2020 they have released 3 of them and it's starting to get old. Hopefully the next time we hear from them they have something new.

TLDR: I would like this game more if Abby was the main character and the story was completely separated from the events and characters of the first game.

Sucker Punch Productions captivated an audience with their incredible PS2 Trilogy. Providing worthwhile characters, fun settings, solid levels and a witty sense of humor. This collection should have been an easy high rating. But unfortunately Sanzaru Games treated this like my first apartment and gave these games the landlord special.

It isn't a complete mess but after a while cracks really start to show. If this is your only means to play these games you will still have a great time. But now that I've platinumed all three titles, I will stick with the PS2 versions when I want to revisit this series.

Style, flair and challenge are at the core of this near future dystopian sports adventure. Keeping momentum while handling all manners of dangerous threats will get your adrenaline pumping up to the final shot you take each round.

It's one of those games that offers a lot of replay value to those looking for a test of skill, especially in its more difficult unlockable campaign.

If Mad Max meets Tony Hawk sounds even remotely interesting to you then absolutely check this one out.

Interesting to see that the SteamWorld Franchise came from such humble beginnings. The aesthetic is charming and digging your own personal maze underground are stand outs. I found moving through the dirt, avoiding obstacles and finding new upgrades to be very compelling. Death was maybe a little too forgiving at times but it all services a really strong progression system.

Unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of its ending. It almost undermines the simple nature of the title with an awkward final reveal and ending cutscene. I don't think it properly set up what it was going for.

Despite that this is a tightly made and short journey into the depths of an old west mining town run by robots. I think that fun idea alone is worth a playthrough.

It's impressive that by the end of this adventure the actual gunbrella weapon feels as iconic and memorable as it does. With its unique movement mechanics I had a blast making my way through this steampunk x occult setting.

Visually I would honestly call the game a looker. it's a lot of muted colors but the art team was able to provide a real unique style to a game that at a glance looks rather familiar. I was really impressed every time I entered a new area.

The narrative unfortunately while super compelling at times, is a little mixed overall. I really liked the amount of character work and lore that went into the setting, but parts of its supernatural plotline kind of fall flat. Its main villain also kind of drops the ball in the end with a final boss that felt like kind of a let down.

Even with its woes I really do think Devolver Digital showcased another winner here. I hope Studio Doinksoft bring us back to this world in a sequel. I only see room for improvement if there is one.

The concept of taking a beloved children's property and twisting it isn't anything new. But what I think makes My Friendly Neighborhood more appealing than games like FNAF and Bendy is the earnestness and love for what inspires it.

You might be surprised that the combination of Sesame Street meets Resident Evil doesn't show a cynical nature for the entertainment industry it satirizes. From its inclusion of Arlo to its more tender moments with its original characters there is a clear respect that shows this was made by fans.

While it's not the scariest game it also showcases strong elements of the horror genre. Its studio backlot setting contributes to this feeling by being just as much iconic as any mansion or castle. This especially when looking at its interconnected layout and a strong focus on puzzles.

If any of this sounds appealing to you I implore you to give the neighborhood a visit.

I am so happy to report that if this is indeed the end of the Norse Saga it ends with a triumph.

It perfectly builds off of the impressive character work from the last few years while simultaneously providing further depth to the Greek Saga. Valhalla is a masterstroke in Santa Monica's Portfolio, it is a showcase of Christopher Judge's acting talent and a worthwhile challenge that takes full advantage of the combat framework.

And they gave it to us for fucking free.

I really wasn't expecting to get emotional playing this game, but I fell in love with it. Its characters and narrative brought me to such a vulnerable place. Reminding me of all the adventures I used to have and how growing up can be so challenging.

The game is funny, intelligent and filled with charm. Even after reaching 100% I just wandered around interacting with each character I met along the way. I just wasn't ready to say goodbye.

I'm floored with so many feelings that confirm that this is not only an incredible game, but one of my new all time favorites.

Hell Pie asks the question...."What if metal fans made a 3D Platformer?!"

I think the answer is that it mostly succeeds at being a really great time. While tolerance for its sense of fecal humor will absolutely vary, this game sports excellent movement that feels really responsive with its unique twist on grappling.

Its important to note I did run into a fair amount of bugs. Nothing game breaking but defiantly got in the way of my enjoyment at times. If your a fan of 3D platformers, or the band "Electric Callboys" I would consider this game a treat.