Metal Slug is a visual marvel, with jaw-dropping pixel art animations that stand among the best in the genre. As a classic run-and-gun game, it offers thrilling action, but its dated controls can be a hindrance. The inability to free aim while locked in place or shoot straight down without jumping feels like missed opportunities. Additionally, its arcade nature can lead to unfair situations, with the game spamming enemies and projectiles, making dodging nearly impossible at times. The final boss is a bullet sponge, leading to repetitive and frustrating encounters. Despite these flaws, Metal Slug remains a fun experience for fans of the genre.

New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a mixed bag. While it excels in many areas, its lack of innovation and occasional emptiness hold it back from reaching its full potential. The game boasts impeccable mechanics and introduces fresh gameplay elements at every turn. Playing co-op with my mom was an absolute blast, and the seamless multiplayer experience added to the fun. However, some levels feel strangely empty, perhaps due to accommodating up to four players on screen simultaneously. Sacrificing level depth for the sake of multiplayer compatibility feels like a missed opportunity, especially when considering the option to play solo. Additionally, the New Super Mario formula, while tried-and-true, feels a bit stale.
Overall, New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a good game, but it falls short of greatness due to its lack of innovation and occasional shortcomings.

XCOM: Enemy Within is a compelling game that grabs your attention from the start. It delivers a rich tactical experience that feels like it would be right at home on a mobile platform, but without any annoying microtransactions or ads to disrupt the gameplay.

The combat is the highlight here—engaging, strategic, and deeply satisfying. Success feels earned, and the variety of ways to upgrade and enhance your squad keeps the game fresh despite some repetitive missions.

The game's major drawback is its story. It's forgettable and serves merely as a backdrop for the tactical challenges. Additionally, the ending, aiming for drama, ends up feeling cringeworthy.

Overall, XCOM: Enemy Within stands out for its strategic depth and engaging gameplay, making it a must-play for fans of the genre, despite its weaker narrative elements.