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A near-perfect adaptation and a just-ok game.
FBW captures the look, feel, sounds, lore, humor, and pacing of South Park perfectly. If you're someone who deeply desires 'South Park with a controller' this is going to be your new favorite game, and That's enough to make up for the fact that the gameplay is basic, repetitive, and uninspired; but just barely.
This is a tricky game to review, because I feel it does what it sets out to do very well, in that its an excellent recreation of the show. But, as a game, I can't say it's anything special, and I don't suspect I'll be playing it again.
If you love FBW, I totally see why. It's a must play for diehard South Park fans, but a very soft recommendation for RPG fans.
FBW captures the look, feel, sounds, lore, humor, and pacing of South Park perfectly. If you're someone who deeply desires 'South Park with a controller' this is going to be your new favorite game, and That's enough to make up for the fact that the gameplay is basic, repetitive, and uninspired; but just barely.
This is a tricky game to review, because I feel it does what it sets out to do very well, in that its an excellent recreation of the show. But, as a game, I can't say it's anything special, and I don't suspect I'll be playing it again.
If you love FBW, I totally see why. It's a must play for diehard South Park fans, but a very soft recommendation for RPG fans.
I liked this game more than I remembered, and I remembered liking it.
The storytelling in this game is soooooooooo much better than the previous game, and the tone feels appropriately lighter and more self-aware. The enemies have been amped-up, making combat with the different rangs much more satisfying. There is a greater wealth of quirky characters and funny interactions. I also found the collectables so much more reasonable and rewarding to collect. I was honestly shocked by how much this game improved from the first game, which I already liked.
Not every change was for the better: Ty 2's biggest problem is a strange dependence on vehicle segments, few of which are good and take up a significant portion of the game. The level design is also a bit more hallway-like, making exploration less-satisfying in many areas. The pacing of the story is also somewhat awkward, as the first game went much too fast, this one goes a bit too slow, having very little story development between missions and reaching the end without feeling like much has happened.
Nitpicks aside, I love this game, and will definitely re-visit it in the future. I haven't played Ty 3, but everyone says it's complete trash. So, for me, the series ends here, and it was a good note to end on.
Ty 2, You little Beauty! (I did it again)
The storytelling in this game is soooooooooo much better than the previous game, and the tone feels appropriately lighter and more self-aware. The enemies have been amped-up, making combat with the different rangs much more satisfying. There is a greater wealth of quirky characters and funny interactions. I also found the collectables so much more reasonable and rewarding to collect. I was honestly shocked by how much this game improved from the first game, which I already liked.
Not every change was for the better: Ty 2's biggest problem is a strange dependence on vehicle segments, few of which are good and take up a significant portion of the game. The level design is also a bit more hallway-like, making exploration less-satisfying in many areas. The pacing of the story is also somewhat awkward, as the first game went much too fast, this one goes a bit too slow, having very little story development between missions and reaching the end without feeling like much has happened.
Nitpicks aside, I love this game, and will definitely re-visit it in the future. I haven't played Ty 3, but everyone says it's complete trash. So, for me, the series ends here, and it was a good note to end on.
Ty 2, You little Beauty! (I did it again)
No, it isn't as good as Arkham City. No superhero game ever will be; I accepted that years ago.
Spider-Man 2 has an even blend of steps forward and back compared to the 2018 game: the bosses are more consistent, not reaching the same dizzying highs as the Doc Ock battle or the same mediocre lows as most of the other bosses from that game; The first two-thirds of Spider-man 2 are much more compelling, better paced with a more interesting story, but they lead to a very haphazard and poorly set-up last third (The exact opposite of the first game which had an underwhelming lead-up to an incredible last third); I found the side-quests and other playable characters much more enjoyable this time around, but the cast has become a bit oversaturated and not every character gets as much development or screentime, leading to some emotional moments not hitting as hard as they could. Broadly-speaking, I'd say I liked both games about the same, but for different reasons.
Marvel's Spiderman: A long car ride to Disneyland. It's hot, traffic is bad, and we ran out of snacks an hour ago. But, once we get there, we have the time of our lives.
Marvel's Spiderman 2: A really fun car trip. We are stopping at attractions, everyone is getting along, and we are loaded on snacks. We get there, Disneyworld is closed.
Spider-Man 2 has an even blend of steps forward and back compared to the 2018 game: the bosses are more consistent, not reaching the same dizzying highs as the Doc Ock battle or the same mediocre lows as most of the other bosses from that game; The first two-thirds of Spider-man 2 are much more compelling, better paced with a more interesting story, but they lead to a very haphazard and poorly set-up last third (The exact opposite of the first game which had an underwhelming lead-up to an incredible last third); I found the side-quests and other playable characters much more enjoyable this time around, but the cast has become a bit oversaturated and not every character gets as much development or screentime, leading to some emotional moments not hitting as hard as they could. Broadly-speaking, I'd say I liked both games about the same, but for different reasons.
Marvel's Spiderman: A long car ride to Disneyland. It's hot, traffic is bad, and we ran out of snacks an hour ago. But, once we get there, we have the time of our lives.
Marvel's Spiderman 2: A really fun car trip. We are stopping at attractions, everyone is getting along, and we are loaded on snacks. We get there, Disneyworld is closed.
2007
If this game was just a blank screen with Super Mario Galaxy's soundtrack playing, it would still be a ten.
Good for what it is.
The game lifts far too many ideas and story elements from the original God of War, all supported by a weaker story and weaker hardware, but I found myself surprised by how much harder a few story beats hit in this game than that one. The core gameplay was still very enjoyable, and the conclusion of the game was excellent, even if there was a fair amount of mediocrity preceding it.
I consider Chains of Olympus a worthy addition to the GoW lore and worth a single playthrough for those whom are able.
The game lifts far too many ideas and story elements from the original God of War, all supported by a weaker story and weaker hardware, but I found myself surprised by how much harder a few story beats hit in this game than that one. The core gameplay was still very enjoyable, and the conclusion of the game was excellent, even if there was a fair amount of mediocrity preceding it.
I consider Chains of Olympus a worthy addition to the GoW lore and worth a single playthrough for those whom are able.
If Chains of Olympus had a meatier campaign and more enemy variety.
The ultimate podcast game.
2007
Dr. Nefarious and Andrew Ryan have the same voice actor? Armin Shimerman is the Brando of video game antagonists.
The average of two scores:
ReMind: 2/10
Worst piece of sit DLC I ever wasted money on. I had to pay $30 just to play the main game again and re-watch a ton of cutscenes with the only added feature being the option to play as a much weaker character? It's amazing how much this DLC learns nothing from the flaws of the main game and provides debatably the worst experience in KH history. This is an outrage!
Limit Cut: 10/10
Holy sit, best boss roster in years. Each boss is challenging, distinct, loaded with great music and unique mechanics. Limit Cut offers 12 of the best bosses in KH history(Dark Riku is there too), and it doesn't stop there. I never thought Lingering Will would be topped in terms of difficulty, but I haven't beaten Yozora to this day. Be that as it may, I never found myself frustrated. This boss roster must be experienced!
Overall: 6/10
You know ReMind is bad if having one of the greatest boss collections in gaming history waiting for you at the end just barely justified the purchase. I would have much preferred it if ReMind was removed or at least shortened and the price was dropped down to at most $20, but I'll take Limit Cut however I can get it. If you buy this DLC, please don't stop playing until you finish ReMind, it will be worth it.
ReMind: 2/10
Worst piece of sit DLC I ever wasted money on. I had to pay $30 just to play the main game again and re-watch a ton of cutscenes with the only added feature being the option to play as a much weaker character? It's amazing how much this DLC learns nothing from the flaws of the main game and provides debatably the worst experience in KH history. This is an outrage!
Limit Cut: 10/10
Holy sit, best boss roster in years. Each boss is challenging, distinct, loaded with great music and unique mechanics. Limit Cut offers 12 of the best bosses in KH history(Dark Riku is there too), and it doesn't stop there. I never thought Lingering Will would be topped in terms of difficulty, but I haven't beaten Yozora to this day. Be that as it may, I never found myself frustrated. This boss roster must be experienced!
Overall: 6/10
You know ReMind is bad if having one of the greatest boss collections in gaming history waiting for you at the end just barely justified the purchase. I would have much preferred it if ReMind was removed or at least shortened and the price was dropped down to at most $20, but I'll take Limit Cut however I can get it. If you buy this DLC, please don't stop playing until you finish ReMind, it will be worth it.
Link Between worlds is carried by its gameplay.
Plenty of other Zelda games have told much more interesting stories, had much more memorable characters, and showcased better soundtracks and designs. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't care for how many of the characters in LBW looked. I also felt that too many plot-crucial moments and character revelations were crammed into the final few minutes of the game, and they felt very rushed and not nearly as compelling as they could have been.
All that said, the game is still worth playing. The sense of freedom the game gives is refreshing, and the item purchase system is a brilliant way to slowly introduce players to new items without overwhelming them, and still punishing them for death. The game can provide more of a challenge than most other Zelda games I've played, and the wide variety of monsters, dungeons, and collectables is a treat made even better by the freedom to tackle dungeons in whatever order you please.
The underdeveloped characters and rushed story do hold LBW back from being one of the great Zelda games in my opinion. But, even though the Link between story and gameplay wasn't as strong as I'd have liked, A Link Between Worlds is still well worth your time for the gameplay alone.
Plenty of other Zelda games have told much more interesting stories, had much more memorable characters, and showcased better soundtracks and designs. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't care for how many of the characters in LBW looked. I also felt that too many plot-crucial moments and character revelations were crammed into the final few minutes of the game, and they felt very rushed and not nearly as compelling as they could have been.
All that said, the game is still worth playing. The sense of freedom the game gives is refreshing, and the item purchase system is a brilliant way to slowly introduce players to new items without overwhelming them, and still punishing them for death. The game can provide more of a challenge than most other Zelda games I've played, and the wide variety of monsters, dungeons, and collectables is a treat made even better by the freedom to tackle dungeons in whatever order you please.
The underdeveloped characters and rushed story do hold LBW back from being one of the great Zelda games in my opinion. But, even though the Link between story and gameplay wasn't as strong as I'd have liked, A Link Between Worlds is still well worth your time for the gameplay alone.
Avoid Mothership Zeta, and you'll have a good time.
1998
It's tail time!
2002
The fact that I am so compelled by such a strange premise shows the developers must have done something right.
The game's combat provides a good blend of mindless fun, skill-based progression and resource management. The iconic Disney worlds are brought to life and are captivating to explore. Seeing Sora interact with the beloved characters from Disney's pantheon is surprisingly endearing as a premise which must have sounded like a teenage fanfic on paper evolves into a gripping, atmospheric and unique gaming experience that is worth revisiting many years later. I love this game, and there is a good chance that you love it too. However, I need to discuss negatives. So, if you want good vibes only, I'd stop reading here.
For all that I love, this game has three big strikes against it:
1) Monstro is one of the worst levels in any 3D game I've played. The inside of the whale is undetailed, repetitive and butt-ugly. I always get lost despite the level being so short. It's a low point in every playthrough. But, despite being terrible, at least Monstro was one-and-done, unlike...
2) The Gummi-Ship flying in this game is everything I hate about Monstro, hideous and repetitive, but on a much larger scale. I have to come back to this unfinished flight simulator several times throughout the playthrough and it's almost enough to make me turn the game off.
3) Riku can piss off. One of the worst characters in video game history. It's embarrassing how Maleficent is able to completely deceive him after ten seconds of obvious lies, and that Riku considers it a betrayal that Sora banded together with friends to stay alive rather than trudging through those dangerous worlds alone because Riku and Kairi had to be his only friends. Speaking of Kairi, Riku is overwhelmed with sympathy for her, despite her physical body being completely safe, and doesn't seem to care that Sora is nearly getting his heart ripped out on an hourly basis. Noticing Riku staring avidly and Kairi's unconscious body legitimately makes me uncomfortable, especially considering how obvious it is she loves Sora, not Riku. I honestly get the feeling that most of Riku's saintly future appearances are just to make up for everything he did here. If so, I suppose it worked. But still, considering KH1 alone, I hate this kid.
Sorry, that got a little out of hand, I still love the game though!
The game's combat provides a good blend of mindless fun, skill-based progression and resource management. The iconic Disney worlds are brought to life and are captivating to explore. Seeing Sora interact with the beloved characters from Disney's pantheon is surprisingly endearing as a premise which must have sounded like a teenage fanfic on paper evolves into a gripping, atmospheric and unique gaming experience that is worth revisiting many years later. I love this game, and there is a good chance that you love it too. However, I need to discuss negatives. So, if you want good vibes only, I'd stop reading here.
For all that I love, this game has three big strikes against it:
1) Monstro is one of the worst levels in any 3D game I've played. The inside of the whale is undetailed, repetitive and butt-ugly. I always get lost despite the level being so short. It's a low point in every playthrough. But, despite being terrible, at least Monstro was one-and-done, unlike...
2) The Gummi-Ship flying in this game is everything I hate about Monstro, hideous and repetitive, but on a much larger scale. I have to come back to this unfinished flight simulator several times throughout the playthrough and it's almost enough to make me turn the game off.
3) Riku can piss off. One of the worst characters in video game history. It's embarrassing how Maleficent is able to completely deceive him after ten seconds of obvious lies, and that Riku considers it a betrayal that Sora banded together with friends to stay alive rather than trudging through those dangerous worlds alone because Riku and Kairi had to be his only friends. Speaking of Kairi, Riku is overwhelmed with sympathy for her, despite her physical body being completely safe, and doesn't seem to care that Sora is nearly getting his heart ripped out on an hourly basis. Noticing Riku staring avidly and Kairi's unconscious body legitimately makes me uncomfortable, especially considering how obvious it is she loves Sora, not Riku. I honestly get the feeling that most of Riku's saintly future appearances are just to make up for everything he did here. If so, I suppose it worked. But still, considering KH1 alone, I hate this kid.
Sorry, that got a little out of hand, I still love the game though!
I liked Miles Morales more than the 2018 game.
While having less content, I thought the overall pacing of the story was much better. Miles's personal dilemmas resonated much more with me due to the consistent tone and intimacy of the story. Gone are the tidal wave of repetitive side quests and gimmicky gameplay sections that held the 2018 game back. If the compactness and streamlined gameplay structure from this game could be applied to a story with more content, the next Spider-Man game could be getting five stars from me.
While having less content, I thought the overall pacing of the story was much better. Miles's personal dilemmas resonated much more with me due to the consistent tone and intimacy of the story. Gone are the tidal wave of repetitive side quests and gimmicky gameplay sections that held the 2018 game back. If the compactness and streamlined gameplay structure from this game could be applied to a story with more content, the next Spider-Man game could be getting five stars from me.
Just because I loved Arkham City doesn't mean I want to play a much worse version of it.
The plot holes in this game are ridiculous, the villain motivations are non-existent and every villain in the rogues gallery is pointlessly shafted and delegated to repetitive, serialized side quests with the exception of three. The explosion of repetitive, tedious Riddler trophies are almost preferable to the repetitive tedium of the main quest. Nearly every plot point from this confused, unnecessary story is directly stolen from Arkham City, and the 100% ending is actually somehow worse than the base ending. I did find the tank gameplay fun for a time, but there was far too much of it and it didn't fit the tone of the rest of the game at all.
While far from the worst game I've every played, Arkham Knight is among the most disappointing.
The plot holes in this game are ridiculous, the villain motivations are non-existent and every villain in the rogues gallery is pointlessly shafted and delegated to repetitive, serialized side quests with the exception of three. The explosion of repetitive, tedious Riddler trophies are almost preferable to the repetitive tedium of the main quest. Nearly every plot point from this confused, unnecessary story is directly stolen from Arkham City, and the 100% ending is actually somehow worse than the base ending. I did find the tank gameplay fun for a time, but there was far too much of it and it didn't fit the tone of the rest of the game at all.
While far from the worst game I've every played, Arkham Knight is among the most disappointing.