SNESmapper
BACKER
2016
Forget about all the drama and complaints from this game being delayed for so long, this is in my opinion a modern masterpiece that beautifully portrays and builds a bond between a child and a creature (Trico). The setting of the game is mysterious and incredible to look at and experience, as well as being right in line with the previous Team Ico games.
Level design is great and I have to take my hat off to the devs and Fumito Ueda for adapting levels to accommodate both your character (boy) and Trico which are disproportionately different in size and behavior. The same applies with the general progression and puzzles found in the game which involves both characters. The general exploration has a vertical component to it and is handled very well through dramatic camera angles. If there's one criticism that I have is the occasional botched controls and interaction with Trico which can be bothersome, as well as some odd camera angles encountered every now and then.
With that being said, the overall journey is well worth experiencing; I was really impressed, pleased and moved by the overall story and ending in this game. A must-play if you are a PlayStation fan.
Level design is great and I have to take my hat off to the devs and Fumito Ueda for adapting levels to accommodate both your character (boy) and Trico which are disproportionately different in size and behavior. The same applies with the general progression and puzzles found in the game which involves both characters. The general exploration has a vertical component to it and is handled very well through dramatic camera angles. If there's one criticism that I have is the occasional botched controls and interaction with Trico which can be bothersome, as well as some odd camera angles encountered every now and then.
With that being said, the overall journey is well worth experiencing; I was really impressed, pleased and moved by the overall story and ending in this game. A must-play if you are a PlayStation fan.
2012
Perhaps my favorite PlayStation Vita game, Gravity Rush is by no means a perfect game but it manages to provide a unique and interesting setting and characters that are fun to explore using the game's gravity effects to navigate throughout the world.
The story can and will be obtuse but it manages to remain interesting as it unfolds throughout the game. Kat is a very likeable character and using her powers to explore and fight enemies is unique and fun with some annoyances that are created by sporadic weird camera angles depending on the enemies and levels.
The setting and atmosphere of this game are fantastic, offering a European industrial old look combined with advanced technology.
The story can and will be obtuse but it manages to remain interesting as it unfolds throughout the game. Kat is a very likeable character and using her powers to explore and fight enemies is unique and fun with some annoyances that are created by sporadic weird camera angles depending on the enemies and levels.
The setting and atmosphere of this game are fantastic, offering a European industrial old look combined with advanced technology.
2010
I'm not the biggest fan of western/wild west settings in media (books, movies) but Red Dead Redemption broke that sentiment by providing one of the best gaming experiences of its generation.
Yes, on a surface level this is GTA with a coat of western setting. However, as you play the game you soon realize that the production value of this compared to previous GTA games is much higher and that the world itself was perfectly created to fit the time and setting.
Like any Rockstar game, Red Dead is littered with content ranging from your main missions, side quests, collectibles, etc. Graphics are incredible considering the hardware it was made for, providing stunning topography and environments that pertain to the western setting, as well as vegetation, wildlife and weather effects that add to the experience.
To top all the previous compliments, the story is very interesting and builds up nicely as you progress throughout the game. Overall, this is a must-play if you are into open-world games.
Yes, on a surface level this is GTA with a coat of western setting. However, as you play the game you soon realize that the production value of this compared to previous GTA games is much higher and that the world itself was perfectly created to fit the time and setting.
Like any Rockstar game, Red Dead is littered with content ranging from your main missions, side quests, collectibles, etc. Graphics are incredible considering the hardware it was made for, providing stunning topography and environments that pertain to the western setting, as well as vegetation, wildlife and weather effects that add to the experience.
To top all the previous compliments, the story is very interesting and builds up nicely as you progress throughout the game. Overall, this is a must-play if you are into open-world games.
2014
Despite taking advantage of the current gen power of PS4 vs the older entries in the series (for PS3 and PSP), this game falls a bit flat in terms of its design and online features.
The addition of pets/other controllable characters is a welcome addition that adds variety to the gameplay but overall this game comes up short when compared to some of the other entries in the series.
The addition of pets/other controllable characters is a welcome addition that adds variety to the gameplay but overall this game comes up short when compared to some of the other entries in the series.
I never quite understood the (partial) criticism this game received when it was released back in the day. I really enjoyed the cel-shaded graphics since they provided a unique look and I think it's safe to say that after all these years it was the correct choice single its style and looks remain timeless.
In many ways, this was the next mainline console Zelda game after Ocarina of Time (Majora's Mask felt like an 'expansion' or spin-off game to gamers back then) and that put a lot of weight on the shoulders of this game, thus failing to meet a lot of expectations for some fans. Personally, I think that Wind Waker is one of the best Zelda games, everything in this game from graphics, soundtrack, gameplay and dungeon design are top-notch creating an excellent Zelda game. There are some bits that drag the game a bit such as the Triforce bits collection towards the end of the game but for the most part I believe this is one of the best Zelda games out there and definitely worth having in your collection.
In many ways, this was the next mainline console Zelda game after Ocarina of Time (Majora's Mask felt like an 'expansion' or spin-off game to gamers back then) and that put a lot of weight on the shoulders of this game, thus failing to meet a lot of expectations for some fans. Personally, I think that Wind Waker is one of the best Zelda games, everything in this game from graphics, soundtrack, gameplay and dungeon design are top-notch creating an excellent Zelda game. There are some bits that drag the game a bit such as the Triforce bits collection towards the end of the game but for the most part I believe this is one of the best Zelda games out there and definitely worth having in your collection.
At the time of its release it was one of the most advanced football games in terms of graphics and presentation. I remember being blown away by the fact that you could clearly see the names of the players in their jerseys and spend a lot of time in replay mode just to check the new "pristine" graphics and next gen animations.
Gameplay was decent for the time but a bit on the tanky side of things.
Gameplay was decent for the time but a bit on the tanky side of things.
2003
One of my favorite crossover fighting games of all time. Great ample rosters featuring Capcom and SNK favorites, good backgrounds and soundtrack, and overall great classic fighting mechanics. Not sure how, but I survived playing this game on a tiny GameCube d-pad. The EO mode allows players to use special abilities with simple commands and stick shortcuts so there is an added element of accessibility for this game.
THis game also initiated my appreciation for Rock Howard, he's very fun to use in this game.
THis game also initiated my appreciation for Rock Howard, he's very fun to use in this game.
Even though I'm not a fan/very familiar with the TV series, I decided to try this game based on the Zelda influences. Overall, it was an enjoyable game with both overworld and then side scrolling exploration segments that obviously pay homage to the classic Zelda games. The game was fairly easy and short but straight to the point with solid controls an good presentation.
1998
I consider Body Harvest one of the hidden gems of the N64 library. In a way, it was the providence of 3D GTA games since its development studio was comprised of eventual Rockstar staff and some of the concepts and mechanics from GTA games can be found in this title such as open-world environments, being able to switch vehicles, weapons, etc.
Now truthfully the game is very rough in terms of performance, controls, and overall physics, but its premise and level design are very good and very engaging to keep playing the game. The player is tasked with defending earth from an alien invasion through different periods of time starting in the early 1900s all the way to future times. Levels have corresponding environments and vehicles that pertain to their particular eras which is a cool touch.
Despite the clunkiness in the controls and performance, Body Harvest has a fun and silly design concept and gameplay that stands out and provides an unique experience.
Now truthfully the game is very rough in terms of performance, controls, and overall physics, but its premise and level design are very good and very engaging to keep playing the game. The player is tasked with defending earth from an alien invasion through different periods of time starting in the early 1900s all the way to future times. Levels have corresponding environments and vehicles that pertain to their particular eras which is a cool touch.
Despite the clunkiness in the controls and performance, Body Harvest has a fun and silly design concept and gameplay that stands out and provides an unique experience.
2021
Retro looking (sprites) indie football game inspired by the Tecmo Bowl games of the past. Despite its retro presentation and feel, the game has a surprising amount of layers that keep the game more on the sim side rather than arcade feel such as extended play books, audible and hot route calling, detailed statistics, etc.
Unfortunately, the game does not hold the NFL license but there are fan mods that address this and feature updated teams and rosters. Gameplay and AI difficulty can be on the frustrating side. Kicking punts, field goals etc. feels way more complicated than it needs to be. Playbooks are good and feature tons of different plays.
Unfortunately, the game does not hold the NFL license but there are fan mods that address this and feature updated teams and rosters. Gameplay and AI difficulty can be on the frustrating side. Kicking punts, field goals etc. feels way more complicated than it needs to be. Playbooks are good and feature tons of different plays.
2008
BioShock quickly became one of my all time favorite games thanks to its unique setting, interesting story and characters, gameplay, and wonderful soundtrack and sound effects that all worked together to create a one-of-a-kind experience in gaming.
Deservedly so, this game often gets mentioned as one of the most influential games of its time. The setting of Rapture is intriguing and fascinating: the introduction where the player first stumbles upon the City with the Bathysphere was one of the most shocking moments I have experienced. The art deco and time era/frame used by Ken Levine really suited the game and gave it the perfect touch to make things seem a bit more eerie. The story is of course another high point with a continiuing and evolving timeline featuring an unique blend of powerful characters that ran Rapture. You learn more as the game progresses and trhough audio recordings that are scattered as collectables.
Gameplay contains the right amount of variance from standard first person shooters to add light-RPG elements in the game. The PlayStation 3 version of the game features included DLC and a unique PS3 mode (at the time).
Overall, BioShock is one of my favorite games of all time and the type of gaming experience that took things to the next level for me personally in terms of writing and story progression.
Deservedly so, this game often gets mentioned as one of the most influential games of its time. The setting of Rapture is intriguing and fascinating: the introduction where the player first stumbles upon the City with the Bathysphere was one of the most shocking moments I have experienced. The art deco and time era/frame used by Ken Levine really suited the game and gave it the perfect touch to make things seem a bit more eerie. The story is of course another high point with a continiuing and evolving timeline featuring an unique blend of powerful characters that ran Rapture. You learn more as the game progresses and trhough audio recordings that are scattered as collectables.
Gameplay contains the right amount of variance from standard first person shooters to add light-RPG elements in the game. The PlayStation 3 version of the game features included DLC and a unique PS3 mode (at the time).
Overall, BioShock is one of my favorite games of all time and the type of gaming experience that took things to the next level for me personally in terms of writing and story progression.
1998
It's very interesting to see how much AKI Productions improved this game in the span of a year based on the tremendous success that the previous game (World Tour) had. Just about every component is a massive improvement starting with graphics (more details in character models, signature entrances, better animations, more detailed background and stages, crowds, etc), better sound, improved gameplay, and added game modes.
Admittedly, AKI went on to further improve said mechanics in future games that had the WWF/WWE licenses but on a personal level I was a WCW/nWO fan and this is where the gaming wrestling genre peaked for me. The roster that WCW simply can't be beat since it featured a mix of wrestling legends like Hogan and Flair but also had a good combination of new and upcoming stars like Goldberg and Kidman. This game is not only a fun time but also a trip down nostalgia lane to a time where the wrestling industry as a whole peaked.
Admittedly, AKI went on to further improve said mechanics in future games that had the WWF/WWE licenses but on a personal level I was a WCW/nWO fan and this is where the gaming wrestling genre peaked for me. The roster that WCW simply can't be beat since it featured a mix of wrestling legends like Hogan and Flair but also had a good combination of new and upcoming stars like Goldberg and Kidman. This game is not only a fun time but also a trip down nostalgia lane to a time where the wrestling industry as a whole peaked.
2006
I decided to give Okami a try after I hit a drought with Wii releases back in 2008 (IGN watermark on the cover FTW) and after all the small but vocal acclaim that the game received when it was released late in the PS2's life cycle.
Okami became one of my favorite games of all time thanks to its presentation, art direction, storyline, and unique gameplay. Zelda influences in the form of the overall adventure and dungeon/temple design can be found in the layout of the game and that's perfectly fine since I'm a big fan of the Zelda series. In many ways, Okami actually improved over the 3D Zelda formula by providing more seamless integration between overworld exploration, dungeons, and missions.
Graphically, this game will stand the test of time thanks to its cel-shaded roots and beautiful use of colors and effects that help with the immersion in this historical Japan setting. In many ways, this is a "feel good" game that allows the player to restore corrupted areas back to their original beauty in the form of blossoming colorful nature. Combat was good but not a major standout but I think I did that to myself since I stuck out with a style I felt comfortable with throughout the game but in reality, you have multiple beads that provide different types of combat and attacks. Use of the celestial brush is fun and clever for both combat and puzzle solving and the Wii version of this game was literally the perfect way to experience this unique feature of the game (not even sure how the other version make it work to be honest, the wiimote is just perfect for this application). Soundtrack is fantastic and very appropriate for this game.
The storyline is also very interesting and intriguing, citing Japanese folklore. The bond between Amaterasu and Issun (your traveling companion) has a rocky start but the connection between the two grows and culminates in a fantastic way along with the relationships you forged with other characters along your journey.
Simply put, Okami is a masterpiece and I'm just really glad I decided to give this game a shot back when the Wii version came out.
Okami became one of my favorite games of all time thanks to its presentation, art direction, storyline, and unique gameplay. Zelda influences in the form of the overall adventure and dungeon/temple design can be found in the layout of the game and that's perfectly fine since I'm a big fan of the Zelda series. In many ways, Okami actually improved over the 3D Zelda formula by providing more seamless integration between overworld exploration, dungeons, and missions.
Graphically, this game will stand the test of time thanks to its cel-shaded roots and beautiful use of colors and effects that help with the immersion in this historical Japan setting. In many ways, this is a "feel good" game that allows the player to restore corrupted areas back to their original beauty in the form of blossoming colorful nature. Combat was good but not a major standout but I think I did that to myself since I stuck out with a style I felt comfortable with throughout the game but in reality, you have multiple beads that provide different types of combat and attacks. Use of the celestial brush is fun and clever for both combat and puzzle solving and the Wii version of this game was literally the perfect way to experience this unique feature of the game (not even sure how the other version make it work to be honest, the wiimote is just perfect for this application). Soundtrack is fantastic and very appropriate for this game.
The storyline is also very interesting and intriguing, citing Japanese folklore. The bond between Amaterasu and Issun (your traveling companion) has a rocky start but the connection between the two grows and culminates in a fantastic way along with the relationships you forged with other characters along your journey.
Simply put, Okami is a masterpiece and I'm just really glad I decided to give this game a shot back when the Wii version came out.
There are not many redeemed qualities about Killzone: Shadow Fall. It was a PS4 launch title and so people bought into this game to play something. Graphics are pretty good for being an early PS4 game but the game starts falling apart with its bland and boring approach to gameplay and level design.
Certain levels have a semi-open world feel to them where you can take different paths to reach objectives but for ultimately the game/levels are linear which is not a deterring quality for a game but for this particular one, the bland design really hurt the game. Gunplay is on the slow side and is fairly uneventful although some weapons are fun to use.
Despite this being a below-average FPS and Killzone game, I really hope to get back to it some day to complete/beat the game. I got pretty far near the end of the game but got sidetracked and never felt compelled to finish it.
Certain levels have a semi-open world feel to them where you can take different paths to reach objectives but for ultimately the game/levels are linear which is not a deterring quality for a game but for this particular one, the bland design really hurt the game. Gunplay is on the slow side and is fairly uneventful although some weapons are fun to use.
Despite this being a below-average FPS and Killzone game, I really hope to get back to it some day to complete/beat the game. I got pretty far near the end of the game but got sidetracked and never felt compelled to finish it.
2011
Super Mario 3D Land is how I thought the Mario game from the future would be like when I was playing Super Mario World in the early 90s.
3D Land doesn't offer the level of freedom that other 3D Mario games like 64 and Sunshine do, but it provides just enough 3D movement set in linear levels to create a unique experience hence why this game is to me, the natural progression of Mario games from 2D to 3D.
Level variety is great with different themes, colorful locations, and design that offers both vertical and horizontal configuration of levels.
I didn't think it was possible to relive childhood experiences, but 3D Land was able to convey emotions that I experienced playing masterpieces like Super Mario World and that alone makes this game something very special in my collection.
3D Land doesn't offer the level of freedom that other 3D Mario games like 64 and Sunshine do, but it provides just enough 3D movement set in linear levels to create a unique experience hence why this game is to me, the natural progression of Mario games from 2D to 3D.
Level variety is great with different themes, colorful locations, and design that offers both vertical and horizontal configuration of levels.
I didn't think it was possible to relive childhood experiences, but 3D Land was able to convey emotions that I experienced playing masterpieces like Super Mario World and that alone makes this game something very special in my collection.