SinisterElephant
2018
A 2d platformer. In general, I do not like, and am not good at, 2d platformers. However, this game is a masterpiece. Playing each level gives me the same sense as mastering a piece of music. A lot of the game did not feel like the difficulty came from tricky platforming, but rather a sort of puzzle whose solution was being in the right places at the right time. This was a welcome surprise and is the main reason I almost 100% this game. I resolved to aquire every strawberry in a level and complete that level's B-side before moving on to the next. Playing this way absolutely broke up the plot pacing, but the added challenge sharply increased my skill at the game and the later levels were less frustrating than if I had not played the way I did. I would play one new level for several hours until I either completed it, or developed a bruise on my thumb from pressing the plus key switch, usually both. There are also a plethora of assist options so players of all skills and ability can play Celeste.
2018
A memory and quick time event (qte) game with pretty visuals, satisfying sound effects, and exciting music. The first many times you make a dish you rely on your qte skills until you learn the recipe at which point you can execute the inputs with hardly any thought. Chef for Hire levels are the best part as they introduce new dishes and higher difficulty over time.
A multiplayer-prefered couch co-op spaceship management simulator game. The graphics and sounds are cute and pleasing to the eyes and ears. Playing with two players feels like the "intended" way to play as having three or four makes the game much easier. There are four campaigns that each have unique mechanics and enemies. Upgrades to the ship are interesting and can lead to loud opinons from your crew.
2014
2013
A tactical rpg set in The Lord of the Rings. Battles are from all three of the novels and films. The player takes the side of either Light (protagonists from the source material) or Darkness (the baddies). There are many things to consider during each battle. Battles are often pitched affairs that feel make me feel like distaster is right around the corner.
2002
2000
2001