Violently digging through its abstract stages and discovering secrets is superb, but Pepper Grinder frequently loses sight of what makes it so great - especially when it begins to lean on mediocre combat and trial-and-error gameplay as players approach its truncated finale.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/05/01/now-playing-april-2024-edition/

As brief as it may be, there's plenty to like about this level-based pure platformer. From its steady rise of obstacle-based challenges to its plethora of optional content, this little platformer is easily worth the price of admission.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/05/01/now-playing-april-2024-edition/

A brilliantly conceived card game with a variety of interesting mechanics and satisfying strategy that seems nigh endless. It doesn't do much to sand down various friction points I have with rogue games in general, but the strength of its design shines through even if it may frustrate from time to time.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/05/01/now-playing-april-2024-edition/

This massive middle chapter of the beloved classic may be overstuffed with things to do that distract from the story, but the self-indulgence pays off in spades. From its countless impactful character moments, content-rich world, outstanding writing, absorbing side content, and out-of-control soundtrack, Square Enix's blank check sequel culminates in a decadent feast for fans.

Full Review coming soon!

It’s pretty miserable by yourself, but a great deal of fun with friends. I felt the progression to be a bit lacking, however, and falling behind your friend group with stratagems made me feel like I’m missing out on the fun. It’s very much an “empty calories” the video game - a great way to hang out and chat after the work week, but not very substantial beyond that. Kudos to the live service design, though, and the political satire gives the game a stingingly witty edge.

While it's in rough technical shape and its overloaded plot leaves something to be desired, this brief modern return to the world of Silent Hill supplies good scares and excellent atmosphere while tackling some tricky topics quite well to boot.

Check out my full review in March 2024's Now Playing: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/03/31/now-playing-march-2024-edition/

I wish I had the urge to dive deeper into its elaborate upgrades and to clear runs faster in Go Mecha Ball, but the irritating sound design, lack of personality, and quickly repetitious structure made this a quick afternoon's side dish and little else.

Check out my full review in March 2024's Now Playing: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/03/31/now-playing-march-2024-edition/

The story is about as cookie-cutter as it gets and the presentation and voice work could both use some TLC. However, these criticisms are easy to forgive when the central mechanics of Berserk Boy click together so effortlessly, providing satisfying, fast-paced, and exhilarating 2D action.

Check out my full review in March 2024's Now Playing: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/03/31/now-playing-march-2024-edition/

Aside from a stubborn camera and infrequent guesswork platforming, the expertly designed stages reinforce the robust movement system throughout - all of which are elevated thanks to its scrumptious visuals and music. Penny’s Big Breakaway is a kaleidoscopic delight and a 3D platforming gem that shouldn't be missed.

Check out my full review in March 2024's Now Playing: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/03/31/now-playing-march-2024-edition/

Despite some significant pacing issues and frequent bugs, The Lost Crown is an exceptional Metroidvania that features incredible platforming, robust exploration, and thrilling boss fights that are sure to delight genre fans.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/02/29/now-playing-february-2024-edition/

Persona 3 Reload is an outstanding way to experience this paradigm shift of a JRPG today, but it certainly isn’t without some significant design hurdles to overcome in the process of actually playing it – especially for those new to confronting the mysteries of The Dark Hour.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/02/29/now-playing-february-2024-edition/

While its gameplay leans too heavily on "been there, done that" open-world gameplay staples, Tchia's earnest exploration of New Caledonia's vibrant traditions and charming music is reason enough to experience this surprisingly dark modern fairytale.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/02/29/now-playing-february-2024-edition/

Whether it be its intricate gameplay mechanics, unique approach to traversal and exploration, or its arresting hand-drawn art and transportive original score, Ultros is an easy recommendation for Metrodviania fans craving genre staples who aren’t afraid to dive deep into unusual and bewitching game design.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/02/29/now-playing-february-2024-edition/

Improved over the original in nearly every regard, this sequel to the 2020 indie hit further expands on the intense and satisfying "one hit one kill" gameplay in all the right ways. It's technically rougher around the edges in every other regard, however, and the storytelling is messy and rather grating.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/01/31/now-playing-january-2024-edition/

Easy to pick up yet challenging to master, this arcade racer has a rock-solid mechanical foundation and is jam-packed with tracks. It's entirely free to play, too, so fans of Mario Kart and F-Zero shouldn't miss this fantastical pure-racing title.

Full Review: https://neoncloudff.wordpress.com/2024/01/31/now-playing-january-2024-edition/