Persona 4 Arena Ultimax, or as I'd like to call it, "MANGO THEM: The Arena," offers an experience that's as polarizing as it is bewildering. The battles in this game are a rollercoaster of emotions. On one hand, you might feel the thrill of landing a single hit and watching a fifth of your opponent's health bar disappear in one fell swoop. On the other, you'll be left pondering the universe's cruel sense of balance. (1/5 of your health bar disappears in one hit) - that's just how it goes.

As for the game itself, it's a bit like the strange journey of a Passione Gang member from JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 5: Golden Wind. The experience can be as chaotic as facing the whims of Bucciarati's team. This may not be the finest hour in the Persona series, but it's certainly a unique spin on the formula. Yet, despite the chaotic battles and Melty Blood Type Lumina comparisons, it still manages to captivate in its peculiar way. Persona 4 Arena Ultimax is a wild ride, and much like a Stand battle, your mileage may vary.

I would rate this whirlwind of a game a Stand-tastic 7 out of 10.

Emerald...Splash. Here I am, standing on the precipice of an alternate reality – one where the martial art of Stand-fighting reigns supreme. It all began when we introduced someone who knows karate into the fray, but little did we know, it was the catalyst for an epic transformation.

So, picture this – I've spent years mastering my Stand, Hierophant Green. But one day, something changed. A new contender arrived on the scene, a so-called "Gun Girl." She was packing heat, and not just any heat – it was a barrage of bullets. I watched in awe as she unleashed a relentless combination of Dash Attack -> Shoot -> Dash Attack -> Shoot -> Dash Attack -> Reload.

It was like watching a new form of Stand-fighting, where gunplay and martial arts clashed. And the world was transformed. We all began to realize that our decades of mastering karate were in vain. It wasn't about who could throw the most precise punch anymore; it was about firepower and precision, guns taking the upper hand.

Banks, once thought to be impenetrable fortresses, were now facing an entirely new threat – armed robberies on a massive scale. No more "Ora Ora Ora" – it was all "Brrrrrrrrrrrr." The world's economy plunged into uncertainty, and those who once made a living from karate dojos had to reinvent themselves as gunsmiths.

The most significant loss in this transformation? The United States. A country renowned for its karate abilities, one with the most powerful military, suddenly had to abandon its martial prowess. They tried karate nukes, but even those couldn't stand against the power of firearms. America, once a titan, was reduced to a shadow of its former self, its economy losing trillions of enkidollars.

On the other side of this alternate reality, the Japanese stood resolute, holding onto their gun culture. They remained loyal to their weapons and swiftly adapted to the new era. Even after facing numerous karate nukes from America, they persevered, transforming into the world's most powerful military.

And amid this chaos, there was a curious moment. Neco-Arc, that mischievous character from the Type-Moon universe, couldn't help but celebrate the insanity of it all with her whimsical dance, as if to say, "This is a world where anything goes."

And thus,, I witnessed the transformation of a world where karate once reigned supreme into a place where gunplay took over. An alternate reality I never thought I'd see. It's like a Stand battle where the rules have been completely rewritten. So, prepare yourself, for this is an adventure that will have you training for another 200 years if you want to make sense of it all.

Score: 9/10

Final Fantasy VII is a masterpiece that defies even the most peculiar tangents of the human mind. Who's KanyeWest? A girl, a boy, or perhaps an entity beyond gender? LoveJoy's quest for identity, accompanied by that iconic "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH" from Privately Owned Spiral Galaxy, only adds to the surreal brilliance of this game. The acknowledgement of an unused open-mouth texture, an unsung hero of gaming's annals, makes replaying this legendary title all the more fascinating.

Score: 9/10

Rabbids Invasion: The Interactive TV Show seems to be in a league of its own with that delightfully idiotic EHHHYYAAA... Rabbid noise accompanying every click, which might just be its sole redeeming feature. Yet, not even this quirky quirkiness can save it from the depths of gaming oblivion. Remember the days when this was the benchmark for bad games? Ah, the nostalgia. Now, we're spoiled with a whole host of wretched titles, each boasting their own unique brand of horror, from King of Clubs to Garten of banban and beyond. One thing's for sure, none of them can quite match the unforgettable menu sound of EEEEAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH.

Score: 2/10

Touhou Genso Rondo: Bullet Ballet to the Rescue! is a mesmerizing whirlwind of anime girls and bullet hell chaos, where distinguishing the game's visuals, mechanics, and performance becomes a heroic quest amidst the relentless spam. Whether you pick an anime girl to main is a moot point; they all blend into a vibrant barrage of projectiles. Weebs, brace yourselves for an experience that could make even xqc twitch with a hint of envy.

Score: 5/10

Heyyyyyyy Buuuuzzzzzzz! If you ever wanted to experience a game that's more confusing than Madman Mackola's M&M adventure, this is it. Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue! is like watching a movie on fast forward while riding a roller coaster through a construction site. It's a game that leaves you questioning your sanity as you attempt to control Buzz through a world that makes less sense than a WarioWare mini-game.

From the moment you start, you'll be bombarded with movie clips, but don't expect to enjoy the iconic scenes. Instead, they're blasted at you with bass that's cranked to 11, leaving you to wonder why you can't simply hear the characters speak. Every scene feels as if it's been ripped out of context, much like trying to follow Madman Mackola's logic in a review.

As Buzz, you'll attempt to rescue Woody, but the controls are so atrocious that you'll feel like you're wading through knee-deep gravy. It's a platforming nightmare that even 4-year-old you found traumatizing. This game manages to control worse than some of the shoddiest racing games out there, making you question how it expects you to do any platforming at all.

In the end, Toy Story 2: Buzz Lightyear to the Rescue! leaves you scarred, just like the cutscenes that are so bass-boosted and compressed that you can barely make out what's being said. It's a game that will have you longing for the simplicity of a McDonald's manager's decision-making process.

Score: 2/10

Azur Lane, an anomaly in the world of mobile games, emerges as a true masterpiece, one that even Shirou Emiya would appreciate. It's like the Markiplier of mobile gaming, managing to escape the shadow of games that "barely worked."

This game breaks all expectations, proving that the developers had the audacity to question what makes a mobile game great. Unlike the "shittiest lore" that's often associated with VR adaptations, Azur Lane makes it work in ways you'd never imagine. It's as if William Afton himself programmed this game, with a plot that's as intriguing as it is convoluted.

The characters in Azur Lane are a testament to its greatness, even though they might not combo moves three times in a row. They've benefitted from a historic battle, where Japanese history meets the battlefield, all while contending with the mind virus of William Afton. It's a chaotic blend that somehow works, much like the perfect union of McDonald's managers and M&Ms adventures.

Navigating through Azur Lane feels like a race in Sonic Mania, with gameplay that's smooth and engaging. It's a game that dares to ask, "What if a mobile game was actually good?" And the answer is a resounding "yes." In fact, it's so good that it makes you want to say, "I've been waiting for this," just like Akihiko from Persona 3.

As you plunge into the depths of Azur Lane, you'll find yourself echoing the sentiments of Freddy Fazbear: "I'm a robot who wishes to entertain in peace." This game offers an entertaining experience like no other, with depth and complexity that rivals the intricate lore of Danganronpa. And when it comes to keeping you engaged, Azur Lane has what it takes, unlike the monotony of tierlist.com.

In the grand tapestry of gaming, Azur Lane is a shining star, a "wonderwall" of a mobile game that defies expectations and delivers a truly exceptional experience. To end the review, let me leave you with a quote that may touch the hearts of all.

"Unlimited gaming works!"
- Enterprise & Shirou Emiya

Score 9.5/10

Sonic Mania proves that sometimes, to make a truly great Sonic game, you might need to leave Sega out of the equation entirely. This game is a pleasant surprise in the Sonic franchise, a series notorious for its uneven quality over the years.

The sheer joy of Sonic Mania becomes evident when you realize that you could've been watching more Sonic Mania gameplay instead of enduring subpar content. It's a game that makes you "wow" as it rediscovers the essence of what makes Sonic so beloved. And what's even more remarkable? It had nothing to do with Sega's usual meddling. The gameplay is a nostalgic throwback to the classic Sonic adventures, perfectly capturing the essence of the original titles.

In stark contrast to the disappointment of a "missing children review," Sonic Mania stands as a shining example of how to revitalize a franchise. It's anything but "dogshit" and easily ranks among the best Sonic games in existence. The level design, music, and overall presentation are all meticulously crafted, reminding players of what made Sonic a gaming icon in the first place.

When you finally get to experience the pure, unadulterated fun of Sonic Mania, you'll find yourself echoing the sentiments of Akihiko from Persona 3: "I've been waiting for this." The gameplay is smooth, the levels are expertly designed, and it's an absolute blast to play.

One can't help but wonder how Sonic Mania achieved what so many other Sonic games failed to. The answer is simple: Sonic Team had nothing to do with the development. This game dared to ask the question, "What if Sonic was actually good?" And it delivered a resounding "yes." Sonic Mania is a delightful return to form for the blue hedgehog and a must-play for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

Score: 9/10

Melty Blood Type Lumina offers an enthralling fighting experience that leaves fans of the genre wanting more. While it has some room for improvement, it manages to captivate players with its unique characters and fast-paced gameplay.

One of the most exciting aspects of Melty Blood Type Lumina is the potential for future DLC. Fans can only hope that beloved characters like Shirou Emiya and Gun Girl will be added to the roster, enhancing the game's diversity and appeal. The prospect of expanding an already intriguing character lineup keeps players engaged and eager for what's to come.

One particularly unusual and amusing feature is the presence of Carnival Phantasm. This inclusion adds a layer of quirkiness and nostalgia for fans of the series. It's a delightful nod to the wider Nasuverse and adds depth to the game's overall experience.

However, it's essential to address an unusual and somewhat controversial element within the game. Some players have noted that Neco Arc seems to provide peculiar lessons on how to make methamphetamine. This bizarre inclusion raises questions about the developer's intentions and might not sit well with all players.

In conclusion, Melty Blood Type Lumina is an outstanding fighting game that holds great promise. Its potential for future DLC characters is exciting, and the presence of Carnival Phantasm adds a layer of charm. However, the inclusion of strange and potentially inappropriate content like Neco Arc's "lessons" is a downside. Despite this, Melty Blood Type Lumina manages to deliver a captivating experience that keeps players coming back for more. With some refinements, it could easily ascend to even greater heights in the fighting game genre.

Score: 8/10

The developers of BlazBlue Calamity Trigger had a unique vision when they set out to create an anime fighter that dared to be different. They clearly thought, "What if we made an anime fighter that didn't have Karate Man?" While their boldness is commendable, this game falls short in some areas, making it an intriguing but imperfect experience.

Compared to the disaster that is Underworld Nightmare Ick Birthday, BlazBlue Calamity Trigger at least manages to offer a more engaging fighting experience. The battles are dynamic and visually stunning, with a diverse cast of characters that possess unique abilities and fighting styles. Each fighter brings their own flavor to the mix, and the variety in character design is a definite plus.

One aspect where this game benefits is from the historic battle of August 26, 2023. Given that most of the characters in BlazBlue Calamity Trigger are Japanese, it adds an extra layer of cultural relevance. This date might not be immediately apparent in the game, but it's an interesting tidbit for those who appreciate such connections.

However, the game falters in a crucial area: the character roster. It's disappointing that there isn't a character who can combo the same move together three times. Combos are a fundamental aspect of any fighting game, and this omission is a significant drawback. It hampers the depth of gameplay and can leave players feeling somewhat unsatisfied.

BlazBlue Calamity Trigger has the potential to be a top-tier anime fighter, but it falls short of greatness due to its character roster's limitations. While it doesn't reach the lows of Underworld Nightmare Ick Birthday, it struggles to stand out in a genre filled with fierce competition. Anime fighting enthusiasts may find enjoyment here, but it's not without its flaws.

Score: 7/10

"Guys trust me, this game is good," Markiplier once exclaimed, diving headfirst into the world of pixelated prisons in "MARKIPLIER GETS PUNISHED | The Escapists 2 - Part 1." Now, it's my turn to share my thoughts on this game. And oh boy, The Escapists 2 has a lot more to offer than just Markiplier's escapades.

First things first, let's get a few things out of the way. Madman Mackola, Danganronpa, and WarioWare might be fine for some, but if you're in the mood for a unique and challenging prison-break experience, The Escapists 2 is where the real action is.

The game puts you in the shoes of an inmate, and your sole mission is to escape from various correctional facilities. It's a bit like a prison sandbox, offering you the freedom to craft your cunning escape plan or follow one of the pre-designed ones. The level of detail in the prisons is impressive, and the puzzles will genuinely make you think. It's a far cry from the mind-numbing simplicity of some other games.

While Markiplier's enthusiasm is contagious, it's important to remember that The Escapists 2 isn't just a playground for YouTubers. It's a game that requires strategy, resource management, and a good deal of patience. The escapades can be both thrilling and infuriating, especially when a carefully constructed plan goes haywire.

The multiplayer mode adds another layer of enjoyment. Team up with friends or create chaos by trying to foil their escape attempts. It's a recipe for countless hilarious moments, and it's where The Escapists 2 truly shines.

Now, it's not perfect. The controls can feel a bit clunky, and the learning curve can be steep for newcomers. But isn't that part of the charm? You're not just breaking out of prison; you're escaping your comfort zone.

So, if you're looking for a game that offers more substance than just a famous YouTuber's endorsement, The Escapists 2 is a solid choice. It's a challenging and engaging experience that will keep you coming back for more, long after Markiplier's escape saga has ended.

Score: 8/10

The exclamation "MY DECISION IS FIOOOOONNALLLL" seems to encapsulate the essence of Ape Academy 2. This game, like a firm and unwavering declaration, tries to assert its identity within the realm of quirky and unusual mini-game collections. However, whether this final decision leads to pure enjoyment or a head-scratching experience is a matter of perspective.

Ape Academy 2 offers a slew of mini-games that range from bizarre to outright absurd. You'll find yourself engaged in tasks like catapulting monkeys, participating in rhythm-based challenges, and even embarking on peculiar races. It's a carnival of the bizarre, and it's clear that the developers didn't hold back when concocting these peculiar challenges.

The game's aesthetics, characterized by colorful and cartoonish graphics, do add a touch of whimsy. Still, even this visual charm can't quite mask the fact that Ape Academy 2's mini-games often feel disjointed and lack cohesion. It's as if the developers took a bunch of zany ideas and tossed them into a blender to see what came out.

Despite the evident chaos, there's a certain charm to Ape Academy 2's madness. If you're seeking a gaming experience that defies convention and embraces the absurd, this title might be right up your alley. However, for those who prefer their gaming experiences to have a bit more structure and coherence, this may be one final decision that leaves you scratching your head.

Score: 5/10

Prepare to dive headfirst into the murky and convoluted world of the Five Nights at Freddy's lore, now in glorious VR! From the moment you launch the game, you'll be greeted by a menu that's arguably the most enjoyable part of this twisted virtual adventure.

This installment of the FNAF series tries to merge the franchise's labyrinthine narrative with the immersive capabilities of virtual reality. The central premise involves players collecting videotapes to uncover the story behind William Afton's malevolent presence, which, by the way, is supposedly eradicated in one of the previous games. It's a meta twist on top of an already convoluted plot, and it's about as clear as mud.

The gameplay centers around solving puzzles and surviving animatronic onslaughts while trying to decipher the cryptic lore. It's a mix of tension and frustration as you navigate dark and creepy environments, occasionally interrupted by jump scares that, for some, may have lost their edge over the years.

Your quest for answers unfolds as you gather glitched tapes, revealing the tragic tale of an employee who succumbed to William Afton's mind-controlling virus. Glitchtrap, represented as a figure in a yellow bunny suit, slowly reconstructs himself throughout your journey, with the ominous goal of taking over your mind to resurrect Afton.

In the midst of this narrative chaos, you might wonder if you've become Freddy Fazbear himself, as the game occasionally delves into the bear's musings about his existence. It's a bizarre addition that adds little to the overall experience.

While Five Nights at Freddy's: Help Wanted brings a fresh dimension to the franchise with VR, it can't quite escape the tangled web of its own narrative. It's a horror experience that relies heavily on nostalgia for its core appeal, and whether that's enough to sustain you through the glitches, jumpscares, and confusing plot is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Score: 4/10

2018

Well, having played Hades extensively, I must say it's quite the experience. The fast-paced combat, engaging story, and beautifully designed characters really set it apart in the rogue-like genre. It's like a breath of fresh air, a game that keeps you hooked for hours on end.

Now, let's address some interesting points about the game. For starters, there's a chibi cat doing Gangnam Style when picking up an Amougus. While that's an amusing mental image, it's rare to encounter in your average playthrough, hence why many other reviews on the site do not mention this forbidden piece of knowledge. Maybe they missed out on this secret Easter egg?

There's also an intriguing comparison to be made with the song "Wonderwall" by Oasis and Kanye West. It's a bit like comparing apples and oranges, but it got me thinking about the game's soundtrack. I must say, Hades boasts an epic and diverse soundtrack that perfectly complements the intense battles and emotional moments.

And to address comparisons of this game to the likes "real roguelikes" like Rogue Legacy 2, I'd say that both games have their unique charms. Hades offers a more narrative-driven experience, whereas Rogue Legacy 2 focuses on challenging gameplay and exploration. It really depends on your preferences.

In conclusion, I'd still give Hades a solid 9 out of 10. It's a must-play for fans of rogue-likes and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story in their games. Whether you're jamming to "Wonderwall" or not, Hades is an unforgettable journey through the underworld.

Sprint Vector, like many shovelware racing games, leaves a lot to be desired in the control department. It's one of those games where you feel like you're wrestling with the controls more than actually racing. But wait, there's more! If the awkward controls weren't enough, Sprint Vector has the added bonus of inducing motion sickness. Yes, you read that right. It's like a double whammy of discomfort.

The concept might sound interesting on paper – Mario Kart in VR. However, Sprint Vector falls short of capturing the charm and excitement of the iconic Mario Kart series. Instead of delivering a thrilling and enjoyable VR racing experience, it ends up feeling like a lackluster imitation. Overall, it's a game that had potential but ultimately fails to deliver on its promises, making it a disappointing addition to the world of VR racing games.

Score: 3/10