duke_of_jukes
2015
2015
2017
2015
2010
The faction-alignment system is just complex and interesting enough to hold up to replays, and the quest writing is phenomenal. Also, the western theming makes for a good change of pace for the Fallout series, and Bethesda-engine games in general. Of course, mods enhance the experience, but the heart and soul of this game holds up in its original state.
1994
2017
While the Nintendo polish is ever present, this game suffers from BoTW-ification a bit. Too many moons make 100% a grind, while also devaluing the excitement of each moon. Some of the levels are a flop (see the food-themed world), while some of them are absolutely wonderful (see New Donk City). Music is great as with any Mario game, and Mario's movement feels fluid and tight. Overall, its a mixed bag, but worth playing nonetheless.
My favorite Zelda game. The wall-merging gimmic is fun and interesting, especially in how it recontextualizes A Link To The Past's overworld. The 100% item objective (which is a tradition for Zelda games with me) is just long enough to keep from feeling bloated. Dungeon design is tight, and overworld is the perfect size for a pick-up-and-play handheld context.
I completed the WiiU version a couple years back, and playing through 3D World was just as fun as the first time. Bowser's Fury elevates the whole package to near perfection. It contains some of the best levels I've played in a long time, and its short length keeps its mechanics and collect-athon fresh enough to keep the player engaged.