Writing this review is bittersweet for me, as I'm a die-hard fan of the Final Fantasy series. Final Fantasy VII on the original PlayStation was a pivotal game that shaped my gaming journey, introducing me to a genre I've never looked back from. Witnessing its Remake (and now its Rebirth as part 2 of 3) triggered a profound reaction in me, making it the remake I've longed for the most.

That said, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth has left me conflicted. While it boasts moments of soaring highs, it also descends into valleys of significant lows. I'll refrain from delving into the story, as its impact is highly subjective and I believe the game is worth experiencing for oneself. Is it perfect? No, but it continues to explore unique themes and twist tropes in refreshing ways that I hope will be further explored.

Approaching this review after completing a blind run through the main game, my perspective might evolve if, and it's a big if, I manage to achieve 100% completion. However, at this point, I don't foresee the desire to grind out the rest.

The combat feels refined from the remake, yet it still suffers from frustrating moments. The blend of action RPG with a turn-based system is starting to show its age, and while the stagger system may be the best version of it, it's evident that it's been utilized across multiple games. However, I appreciate the introduction of new character combos (synergy) that add flair and satisfaction, especially when finishing off enemies.

Truthfully I might just not be good at this version of action RPG. Some battles proved exceedingly frustrating, surpassing the challenges of even the most daunting encounters in Souls-like games. There seems to be a lack of action cancelling or sufficient invincibility frames, though I can't pinpoint the exact issue. It's possible my age is catching up with me!

The last open-world Final Fantasy, XV, received mixed reviews for its lackluster implementation. However, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth manages to both shine and falter in its open-world design. The side quests are exceptional, building upon the success of meaningful story additions seen in previous titles. With over twenty side quests, each offering unique player interactions, the game avoids common MMO-trope requirements, providing a refreshing experience.

Each area feels meticulously crafted, offering familiar yet fresh vistas. However, some areas are cumbersome to navigate due to the absence of a jump button or limited climbing options. Despite this, the variety of activities in each area, from relic hunting to unique monster slaying, ensures engagement without overwhelming the player.

Character growth undergoes slight changes with the addition of "folios" for each character, although this doesn't significantly deviate from previous systems. Weapon leveling follows a flat scale, which, while forgettable for the most part, adds some depth to customization. Materia makes a return with minor tweaks, with the enemy skill materia standing out as particularly noteworthy as well as some new support materia combos that do aid the party in their battles.

Overall, Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth is a solid game, though it falls short of securing a place among my most cherished gaming experiences in the series. However, it's possible that a more complete picture will emerge with the release of the entire arc of the remake. With the anticipated release of the third installment in 2027, despite my reservations with Rebirth, I eagerly await Resurrection... or Revival... or Regeneration. Yeah, my money's on Regeneration.

Growing up without Nintendo consoles, my childhood racing adventures revolved around titles like Twisted Metal, Gran Turismo, and Jet Moto. For me, replaying Jet Moto 2 in 2024 was a replay of a cherished piece of nostalgia that holds a special place in my heart. But does this sequel stand the test of time? Unfortunately, not quite.

Pros:

Killer Soundtrack: The adrenaline-pumping soundtrack of Jet Moto 2 is a true standout. It perfectly complements the high-speed action and adds an extra layer of excitement to every race.

Neat Course Designs, Especially with the Grapple: The course designs in Jet Moto 2 are imaginative and varied. The addition of the grapple mechanic adds depth to the gameplay, offering new strategic possibilities and enhancing the overall experience.

Cons:

Plays More Like a Resource Manager Than a Racing Game at Times: One of the major drawbacks of Jet Moto 2 is that it occasionally feels more like a resource management game than a pure racing experience. Balancing your bike's turbo and understanding that it's use is just to get you back up to speed quickly vs a true speed boost is key to your racing success. Doesn't always translate to an enjoyable time.

Characters Aren't Diverse Enough to Bother Switching Beyond Necessity: While the game features a selection of characters, their differences are minimal, and there's little incentive to switch between them beyond fulfilling specific requirements.

Not Enough Replayability: Despite its initial charm, Jet Moto 2 lacks the replayability factor. Once you've conquered the tracks and mastered the mechanics, there's little motivation to return for more. Sadly the days of couch co-op are gone and without any online multiplayer the game quickly becomes dry.

Early Maps Are About Raw Power, Later Maps Are About Just Staying on the Bike: The difficulty curve in Jet Moto 2 feels unbalanced. Early maps prioritize raw power, while later maps become frustratingly focused on simply staying on the bike, leading to a less enjoyable experience. You really have to switch characters around or you'll be left in the dust.

In conclusion, while my replay of Jet Moto 2 didn't induce outright hatred, the clash between nostalgia and reality was palpable. The game's killer soundtrack and imaginative course designs offer glimpses of its former glory, but ultimately, its flaws prevent it from standing tall among modern racing titles. If you're seeking a trip down memory lane, Jet Moto 2 may provide some fleeting moments of joy. However, for those looking for a truly satisfying racing experience, it may be best to explore newer alternatives.

What other game do you know of that features the Two-Time Back to Back Blockbuster World Champion DrDisrespect?

"Hey! Stop playing that game and go to bed!"

Moon RPG Remix is a delightful departure from traditional RPGs, offering a fresh and innovative experience that sets it apart from the crowd. With its charming story, unconventional gameplay mechanics, and adorable visuals, it's a gem worth exploring on the Nintendo Switch. After playing it in its entirety, I can understand how this was the basis for games to come later, like Undertale.

One of the standout features of Moon RPG Remix is its cute story. Set in a whimsical world filled with colorful characters and quirky dialogue, the game immerses players in a charming narrative that's as heartwarming as it is entertaining. The new English translation is fantastic, and you can tell Onion Games allowed the translator lots of freedom to go wild - it shows, and it works so well for this game.

What truly sets Moon RPG Remix apart is its anti-RPG elements. Instead of following the usual conventions of the genre, the game takes a different approach, offering players something entirely new and unexpected. This unique twist on familiar tropes ensures that every moment spent in the game feels fresh and exciting. And who doesn't want to be the REAL good guy for once? The experience is unlike anything else on the market. From its innovative gameplay mechanics to its charming presentation, every aspect of the game feels meticulously crafted to deliver a truly unique and memorable experience.

Another refreshing change in Moon RPG Remix is its take on monster catching. Instead of simply battling and capturing creatures, players must approach the task in a different way, adding an extra layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay. However, some of the catching requirements for certain monsters and side quests may feel tedious at times, potentially slowing down the pacing for some players.

With a playtime of 15-20 hours, Moon RPG Remix strikes a perfect balance between length and content. It offers enough substance to keep players engaged without overstaying its welcome, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for a satisfying yet manageable experience.

However, it's worth noting that Moon RPG Remix does have its challenges. The steep difficulty curve at the beginning may deter some players, but those who stick with it will find a rewarding and fulfilling journey ahead. Additionally, the game can be difficult to navigate without a guide, and finding a concise resource can be a bit of a challenge.

Overall, Moon RPG Remix is a charming and inventive adventure that offers a refreshing take on the RPG genre. With its cute story, unique gameplay mechanics, and delightful presentation, it's a must-play for anyone looking for something different on the Nintendo Switch.

Now go get all that L-O-V-E!