Nikonoim
(Takes around 3 - 4 hours to complete)
This is my favorite game of the ace combat franchise and one of my top 5. Although it isn't nearly as grand as AC 5 or as good-looking as 7 it certainly makes up for it with its story.
As with others in the series, it's unconventionally told through the perspective of a documentary, the focus of which is the ace pilot Cipher. Between the cutscenes, you play as Cipher. This allows for two things: first is receiving information your character shouldn't be able to obtain and having a deeper understanding of your enemies, since the only people who truly know Cipher are his wingman and the people who fought him. This is done through a series of interviews, showcasing how the war and their battle against Cipher has affected them. You have the ability to affect what they say about you with a morality system.
Since it is a PS 2 game, the graphics are by now outdated. However, the cutscenes have been spared due to them using live-action.
Good mission pacing and solid gameplay. There are fewer planes than the previous game, and you can't choose what your wingman flies, but for me these things didn't affect my enjoyment. Somewhere where the game does improve is the AI of your wingman. Finally, it feels like you're actually part of an elite squadron rather than having to win every battle yourself. Also, it isn't that difficult. I managed to beat it entirely with one of the starter planes on the “hard” difficulty.
The soundtrack is also excellent. The flamenco guitar (Spanish guitar) makes it very original and memorable. My favourite part is "Zero".
Overall, a great game and probably the best arcade flight sim out there.
This is my favorite game of the ace combat franchise and one of my top 5. Although it isn't nearly as grand as AC 5 or as good-looking as 7 it certainly makes up for it with its story.
As with others in the series, it's unconventionally told through the perspective of a documentary, the focus of which is the ace pilot Cipher. Between the cutscenes, you play as Cipher. This allows for two things: first is receiving information your character shouldn't be able to obtain and having a deeper understanding of your enemies, since the only people who truly know Cipher are his wingman and the people who fought him. This is done through a series of interviews, showcasing how the war and their battle against Cipher has affected them. You have the ability to affect what they say about you with a morality system.
Since it is a PS 2 game, the graphics are by now outdated. However, the cutscenes have been spared due to them using live-action.
Good mission pacing and solid gameplay. There are fewer planes than the previous game, and you can't choose what your wingman flies, but for me these things didn't affect my enjoyment. Somewhere where the game does improve is the AI of your wingman. Finally, it feels like you're actually part of an elite squadron rather than having to win every battle yourself. Also, it isn't that difficult. I managed to beat it entirely with one of the starter planes on the “hard” difficulty.
The soundtrack is also excellent. The flamenco guitar (Spanish guitar) makes it very original and memorable. My favourite part is "Zero".
Overall, a great game and probably the best arcade flight sim out there.
2020
(Takes somewhere between 8 – 11 hours, but it depends on how good you are)
This is probably the best movement shooter out there if all you care about is movement and shooting.
You are a robot going through hell. It has a story, and it has lore building up the world you are in. However, you shouldn't really play this game for the story.
The graphics are simplistic and not really worth mentioning. They do however provide you with the ability to easily tell the geometry of the level you are on.
The gameplay is where Ultrakill really shines, and it shines bright. Probably the best moment to moment action I've seen in an FPS. You have an arsenal of 5 weapons. This might not seem like a lot, but the number of interactions they have with each other, makes up for it. For instance, you can fire a grenade to make a small explosion, but if you switch to the explosive railgun and shoot it while it is still in the air, you can make a huge explosion that can clear entire rooms. Explaining every single combo can take hours, but the best part is that 90% are useful. Complimenting this is a very well-made movement system with jumping, slams, dashes, sliding and there are many combinations. Even with these amazing mechanics, it would be nothing if it doesn't have good level design. This is where the game comes in with its amazing pacing. Ultrakill never feels like it's dragging on. It's constantly introducing new weapons, enemies and ramping up the difficulty so that every level feels unique. Talking about unique, the bosses are unique in that they are the only good ones I've seen in FPS games. They are a constant adrenaline rush that tests every one of your skills.
The soundtrack is very energetic, fitting perfectly with the rest of the game. My favourite part is "Duel (Versus Reprise)".
I believe that this is probably the best “boomer” FPS out there.
(YOU CAN PUNCH YOUR BULLETS)
This is probably the best movement shooter out there if all you care about is movement and shooting.
You are a robot going through hell. It has a story, and it has lore building up the world you are in. However, you shouldn't really play this game for the story.
The graphics are simplistic and not really worth mentioning. They do however provide you with the ability to easily tell the geometry of the level you are on.
The gameplay is where Ultrakill really shines, and it shines bright. Probably the best moment to moment action I've seen in an FPS. You have an arsenal of 5 weapons. This might not seem like a lot, but the number of interactions they have with each other, makes up for it. For instance, you can fire a grenade to make a small explosion, but if you switch to the explosive railgun and shoot it while it is still in the air, you can make a huge explosion that can clear entire rooms. Explaining every single combo can take hours, but the best part is that 90% are useful. Complimenting this is a very well-made movement system with jumping, slams, dashes, sliding and there are many combinations. Even with these amazing mechanics, it would be nothing if it doesn't have good level design. This is where the game comes in with its amazing pacing. Ultrakill never feels like it's dragging on. It's constantly introducing new weapons, enemies and ramping up the difficulty so that every level feels unique. Talking about unique, the bosses are unique in that they are the only good ones I've seen in FPS games. They are a constant adrenaline rush that tests every one of your skills.
The soundtrack is very energetic, fitting perfectly with the rest of the game. My favourite part is "Duel (Versus Reprise)".
I believe that this is probably the best “boomer” FPS out there.
(YOU CAN PUNCH YOUR BULLETS)
(Takes around 6 - 8 hours to complete, depending on how good you are)
This is probably the best detective game out there. With an amazing artstyle, good story and an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop, it is a game you should definitely pick up.
Story
You are an insurance investigator tasked with finding out what happened to the crew of the ship Obra Dinn, with the help of a magic watch that shows the last moments of someone's life. Because of this, you play the role of an observer looking at all the trials and tribulations that the ship went through. They are told to you in a non-linear manner, oftentimes you will see the end of a chapter before the beginning. This might seem confusing, but due to this being a detective game, you will always be paying close attention to whatever is happening.
Gameplay
The gameplay consists mainly of figuring out the fates of the crew (what was their name, how did they die). This is done perfectly with almost no hand holding, allowing you to fail endlessly. It might seem like this would just end with frustration; however, the game gives you enough clues to figure out the fate of everyone. Also, the “Aha” feeling of finally figuring out the fate of someone, through a series of deduction and exemption, is unmatched by anything.
Graphics
Don't be put off by its black and white aesthetic, this is a very beautiful game. Paying homage to older video games while also looking like it was made in this decade is pulled off perfectly here. Never was I confused or missed something because it was in the shadows. Also, great sound effects and voice acting.
Soundtrack
Nice classical music that fits with the aesthetic of the rest of the game. Favourite part is "Soldiers of the sea".
Final Thoughts
Some of the most entertaining 8 hours of my life. Lucas Pope can make games like this one until the end of time, and I will be there to play every one of them.
This is probably the best detective game out there. With an amazing artstyle, good story and an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop, it is a game you should definitely pick up.
Story
You are an insurance investigator tasked with finding out what happened to the crew of the ship Obra Dinn, with the help of a magic watch that shows the last moments of someone's life. Because of this, you play the role of an observer looking at all the trials and tribulations that the ship went through. They are told to you in a non-linear manner, oftentimes you will see the end of a chapter before the beginning. This might seem confusing, but due to this being a detective game, you will always be paying close attention to whatever is happening.
Gameplay
The gameplay consists mainly of figuring out the fates of the crew (what was their name, how did they die). This is done perfectly with almost no hand holding, allowing you to fail endlessly. It might seem like this would just end with frustration; however, the game gives you enough clues to figure out the fate of everyone. Also, the “Aha” feeling of finally figuring out the fate of someone, through a series of deduction and exemption, is unmatched by anything.
Graphics
Don't be put off by its black and white aesthetic, this is a very beautiful game. Paying homage to older video games while also looking like it was made in this decade is pulled off perfectly here. Never was I confused or missed something because it was in the shadows. Also, great sound effects and voice acting.
Soundtrack
Nice classical music that fits with the aesthetic of the rest of the game. Favourite part is "Soldiers of the sea".
Final Thoughts
Some of the most entertaining 8 hours of my life. Lucas Pope can make games like this one until the end of time, and I will be there to play every one of them.
2005
(Around 8 hours to complete, excluding the DLCs)
This is Max Payne in first person combined with an Asian horror movie. Seems like a recipe for disaster, right? Surprisingly no, because this is the crown jewel of Monolith, so it's actually pulled off perfectly. F.E.A.R. manages to combine both really intense FPS combat and horror without using cheap jumpscares.
Story
You are part of a special forces group, specialized in dealing with the paranormal, that is tasked with taking out a terrorist organization almost entirely made from mind-controlled soldiers. There is also a grander story told about corruption, cover-ups and a secret experiment. Overall, it's not a bad story, but it's not what makes F.E.A.R. so good. (Also, you are mute)
Gameplay
There are two ways to play the game. The first one is basically a John Woo movie. Using the slow-motion mechanic and blasting your way through every combat encounter. Combined with the amazing visual effect, this makes for a very entertaining show. The second way is by unbinding the slow-motion button and increasing the difficulty. This turns the game into an intense tactical shooter where wits matter more than reaction time. This is possible because of the amazing AI the enemies possess. They will constantly be trying to surround you and outsmart you. My biggest problem with the game is the level design. After going through the one hundredth office, I start to feel like even a sewer would be a welcome change of scenery. The horror aspect of the game can be scary, but it really depends on you.
Graphics and artstyle
For a game from 2005 it holds up really well. The only thing that gives away its age is the models, and that is only if you look closely. It is a sci-fi game as well, and you can see that in the weapons, but it's also realistic. The terrorists use surplus vehicles, the enemies don't have a hundred lights on their body armor. This combined with the low light environments make for an incredibly atmospheric journey.
Soundtrack
It has a soundtrack that is both well-fitting and not at all generic. It strikes a balance of both haunting and intense. However, I wouldn't say it's anything groundbreaking.
Final Thoughts
If F.E.A.R. 2 and 3 went in a different direction, this could have been an amazing franchise.
This is Max Payne in first person combined with an Asian horror movie. Seems like a recipe for disaster, right? Surprisingly no, because this is the crown jewel of Monolith, so it's actually pulled off perfectly. F.E.A.R. manages to combine both really intense FPS combat and horror without using cheap jumpscares.
Story
You are part of a special forces group, specialized in dealing with the paranormal, that is tasked with taking out a terrorist organization almost entirely made from mind-controlled soldiers. There is also a grander story told about corruption, cover-ups and a secret experiment. Overall, it's not a bad story, but it's not what makes F.E.A.R. so good. (Also, you are mute)
Gameplay
There are two ways to play the game. The first one is basically a John Woo movie. Using the slow-motion mechanic and blasting your way through every combat encounter. Combined with the amazing visual effect, this makes for a very entertaining show. The second way is by unbinding the slow-motion button and increasing the difficulty. This turns the game into an intense tactical shooter where wits matter more than reaction time. This is possible because of the amazing AI the enemies possess. They will constantly be trying to surround you and outsmart you. My biggest problem with the game is the level design. After going through the one hundredth office, I start to feel like even a sewer would be a welcome change of scenery. The horror aspect of the game can be scary, but it really depends on you.
Graphics and artstyle
For a game from 2005 it holds up really well. The only thing that gives away its age is the models, and that is only if you look closely. It is a sci-fi game as well, and you can see that in the weapons, but it's also realistic. The terrorists use surplus vehicles, the enemies don't have a hundred lights on their body armor. This combined with the low light environments make for an incredibly atmospheric journey.
Soundtrack
It has a soundtrack that is both well-fitting and not at all generic. It strikes a balance of both haunting and intense. However, I wouldn't say it's anything groundbreaking.
Final Thoughts
If F.E.A.R. 2 and 3 went in a different direction, this could have been an amazing franchise.
1997
(Takes 12–16 hours, depending on if you do the extra content)
One of the best boomer shooters of the 90s. At the time of its release, Blood didn't bring anything new to the shooter genre, however it did everything that was expected of a shooter perfectly. While the graphics are definitely outdated by today's standard, it's hard to say that they are ugly. Overall, this is a must-play if you are into boomer shooters.
Story
There is a story, told through the jankiest cutscenes you will have the pleasure of watching, but don't expect anything other than the most linear narrative from an FPS released before Half-Life. What you wouldn't expect is the best protagonist of the boomer shooter genre. Duke Nukem might be good, but no one can beat Stephan Weyte as Caleb.
Gameplay
This is the part of the game that holds up even today. It has a large and varied weapon selection that doesn't make certain weapons obsolete the moment you pick up a better one. Also, it has alt fire, something that you rarely see in older games. The level design is also good, they are large and interesting areas based on actual locations that only sometimes get confusing to navigate. The part where the game is lacking is the enemies. Most of them are fine, but the hitscan cultists are really annoying, especially if you are on low health.
Graphics and artstyle
As I said before, the graphics are outdated, but not ugly. Expect 2D enemies and not much detail on just about anything.
Atmosphere
It's very atmospheric, if you haven't played anything from the 21st century. If I was to describe the atmosphere it would be—stumbling through dark corridors and unholy temples, fighting your way through cultists, speaking in unknown languages, and monsters, the only thing that keeps you going is revenge and a double-barreled shotgun.
Soundtrack
It's a MIDI soundtrack that fits the theme, but it does repeat quite a lot. Favourite part is "Infuscomus".
Final Thoughts
I wonder how many of the one-liners in Blood are original.
One of the best boomer shooters of the 90s. At the time of its release, Blood didn't bring anything new to the shooter genre, however it did everything that was expected of a shooter perfectly. While the graphics are definitely outdated by today's standard, it's hard to say that they are ugly. Overall, this is a must-play if you are into boomer shooters.
Story
There is a story, told through the jankiest cutscenes you will have the pleasure of watching, but don't expect anything other than the most linear narrative from an FPS released before Half-Life. What you wouldn't expect is the best protagonist of the boomer shooter genre. Duke Nukem might be good, but no one can beat Stephan Weyte as Caleb.
Gameplay
This is the part of the game that holds up even today. It has a large and varied weapon selection that doesn't make certain weapons obsolete the moment you pick up a better one. Also, it has alt fire, something that you rarely see in older games. The level design is also good, they are large and interesting areas based on actual locations that only sometimes get confusing to navigate. The part where the game is lacking is the enemies. Most of them are fine, but the hitscan cultists are really annoying, especially if you are on low health.
Graphics and artstyle
As I said before, the graphics are outdated, but not ugly. Expect 2D enemies and not much detail on just about anything.
Atmosphere
It's very atmospheric, if you haven't played anything from the 21st century. If I was to describe the atmosphere it would be—stumbling through dark corridors and unholy temples, fighting your way through cultists, speaking in unknown languages, and monsters, the only thing that keeps you going is revenge and a double-barreled shotgun.
Soundtrack
It's a MIDI soundtrack that fits the theme, but it does repeat quite a lot. Favourite part is "Infuscomus".
Final Thoughts
I wonder how many of the one-liners in Blood are original.
1996
This is the first fully 3D FPS game and one of the three giants from the golden age of id Software. So, does it hold up 30 years later? Well, no, not really. These days there are numerous better games to play that tell a grander story, have a more intricately designed gameplay and look better. However, there is something about quake, perhaps it's primitive nature or the low poly look, that still makes it entertaining to play. Like a trek through a bygone era. If you ever want to experience what was once the peak of PC gaming and a turning point for the FPS genre, play Quake.
Story
There isn't much of a story in Quake, in fact the only part that can be called a “story” is the few lines of text at the end of each chapter. That is to be expected of that era. Fitting an engaging story into an already graphically complex game would have been too much for computers of that time.
Gameplay
The gameplay holds up enough to still be engaging. Weapons are all the usual ones you will find in these kinds of games. I do have criticism for the guns – some of them become immediately redundant when you pick up their “super” variant. The enemies are a much better part, with plenty of variety in design and the ways they attack the player. Unfortunately facing off against hordes of monsters was simply too taxing for the time so for the most part you will be facing off against a maximum of 7 enemies at once. Also, just so we're clear, I hate the spawn. They are the worst, most annoying enemy in the game. Even the few times you meet them are too many. Level design is okay, though.
Graphics and artstyle
Simple low-poly graphics are what this game is all about.
Atmosphere
Oppressive.
Dreadful.
No matter where you go everything is unnatural, misshaped, dreamlike or rather – nightmare-like. And whatever you are going to see there is perhaps best left unseen.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is dark ambiance by Nine-Inch Nails, and it fits perfectly with Quake.
Final Thoughts
It is surprising how such an old game, that is technically not even horror, manages to capture the essence of Lovecraft better than most modern titles.
Story
There isn't much of a story in Quake, in fact the only part that can be called a “story” is the few lines of text at the end of each chapter. That is to be expected of that era. Fitting an engaging story into an already graphically complex game would have been too much for computers of that time.
Gameplay
The gameplay holds up enough to still be engaging. Weapons are all the usual ones you will find in these kinds of games. I do have criticism for the guns – some of them become immediately redundant when you pick up their “super” variant. The enemies are a much better part, with plenty of variety in design and the ways they attack the player. Unfortunately facing off against hordes of monsters was simply too taxing for the time so for the most part you will be facing off against a maximum of 7 enemies at once. Also, just so we're clear, I hate the spawn. They are the worst, most annoying enemy in the game. Even the few times you meet them are too many. Level design is okay, though.
Graphics and artstyle
Simple low-poly graphics are what this game is all about.
Atmosphere
Oppressive.
Dreadful.
No matter where you go everything is unnatural, misshaped, dreamlike or rather – nightmare-like. And whatever you are going to see there is perhaps best left unseen.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is dark ambiance by Nine-Inch Nails, and it fits perfectly with Quake.
Final Thoughts
It is surprising how such an old game, that is technically not even horror, manages to capture the essence of Lovecraft better than most modern titles.
(Takes around 3 hours to complete)
AC 4 has the least amount of content and the shortest completion time out of all main titles of the franchise, except for the first two, but it makes up for it with one of the best stories I've seen in a video game.
Story
Don't play this game if you expect a typical Call of Duty-esque storyline. It is split into two parts – the gameplay and the cutscenes. During the gameplay, you play as Mobius 1 – an elite pilot for the ISAF, which is currently at war with Erusea. You take part in dangerous operations and by the end of the game you are called by most a hero. The cutscenes are a narration of a man's childhood during the war, told through beautiful hand drawn panels. His family had been killed by a crashing plane, shot down by an enemy pilot. After Erusian forces occupy his town, he meets that enemy pilot – Yellow 13. Between them, a very interesting dynamic develops – Yellow killed his family and is part of the enemy, but there is no one else who he can rely on. Eventually, this leads to Yellow turning into a sort of surrogate father for the kid. During the cutscenes, Mobius 1 serves the role of an antagonist, as there is no one else who can match Yellow in skill.
Gameplay
It has the standard for the series of arcade flight mechanics. Unfortunately, there is a low number of aircraft, and you can't change the SP weapons like in the later games. It has great mission pacing with one of the best final levels in the franchise. One criticism I can bring up is the lack of checkpoints. This becomes especially apparent in some 20+ minute long missions.
Graphics and artstyle
The cutscenes are all hand drawn and as such they have aged very well. The same can't be said for the gameplay part. Just don't look at the ground too hard and you will be fine.
Atmosphere
The cutscenes are melancholic and nostalgic, while the gameplay makes you feel like a hero who can get the job done, not matter the odds.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is good and fits pretty well. “Megalith Agnus Dei” stands out as the best for me.
Final Thoughts
“Stand back I am about to Mob” - Mobius 1
AC 4 has the least amount of content and the shortest completion time out of all main titles of the franchise, except for the first two, but it makes up for it with one of the best stories I've seen in a video game.
Story
Don't play this game if you expect a typical Call of Duty-esque storyline. It is split into two parts – the gameplay and the cutscenes. During the gameplay, you play as Mobius 1 – an elite pilot for the ISAF, which is currently at war with Erusea. You take part in dangerous operations and by the end of the game you are called by most a hero. The cutscenes are a narration of a man's childhood during the war, told through beautiful hand drawn panels. His family had been killed by a crashing plane, shot down by an enemy pilot. After Erusian forces occupy his town, he meets that enemy pilot – Yellow 13. Between them, a very interesting dynamic develops – Yellow killed his family and is part of the enemy, but there is no one else who he can rely on. Eventually, this leads to Yellow turning into a sort of surrogate father for the kid. During the cutscenes, Mobius 1 serves the role of an antagonist, as there is no one else who can match Yellow in skill.
Gameplay
It has the standard for the series of arcade flight mechanics. Unfortunately, there is a low number of aircraft, and you can't change the SP weapons like in the later games. It has great mission pacing with one of the best final levels in the franchise. One criticism I can bring up is the lack of checkpoints. This becomes especially apparent in some 20+ minute long missions.
Graphics and artstyle
The cutscenes are all hand drawn and as such they have aged very well. The same can't be said for the gameplay part. Just don't look at the ground too hard and you will be fine.
Atmosphere
The cutscenes are melancholic and nostalgic, while the gameplay makes you feel like a hero who can get the job done, not matter the odds.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is good and fits pretty well. “Megalith Agnus Dei” stands out as the best for me.
Final Thoughts
“Stand back I am about to Mob” - Mobius 1
5D Chess with Multiverse Time Travel does exactly what it set out to do. Making chess even more confusing. Overall, it is a fun experience, especially with friends.
𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
None.
𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
Just like regular chess, expect the pieces can time travel. I can't go very deep into the mechanics since I suck at regular chess, let alone 5D chess. It has multiplayer, which is especially fun since you are both trying to outsmart each other in something both of you have no idea how to play.
𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞
There is nothing that needs to be said.
𝐀𝐭𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞
Lower your expectations.
𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤
Soundtracks alright. Nothing special.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
Psychological Horror
𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲
None.
𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲
Just like regular chess, expect the pieces can time travel. I can't go very deep into the mechanics since I suck at regular chess, let alone 5D chess. It has multiplayer, which is especially fun since you are both trying to outsmart each other in something both of you have no idea how to play.
𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐲𝐥𝐞
There is nothing that needs to be said.
𝐀𝐭𝐦𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞
Lower your expectations.
𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤
Soundtracks alright. Nothing special.
𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬
Psychological Horror
2018
DUSK can be best described as a modern boomer shooter. At its core it's similar to shooters of the 90’s, but it isn't limited by the technologies of that time. Overall, it's a very well-made game with an amazing atmosphere, great soundtrack, satisfying combat and only a few minor flaws. You could also call it a horror game, since although you are pretty much a killing machine, DUSK can still scare you.
Story
You are DUSK dude fighting off KKK look-alike cultists. DUSK keeps the almost no story tradition of 90’s shooters.
Gameplay
It's an FPS, but unlike other games of the genre you have adequate mobility and can hold an entire arsenal of weapons. That's pretty much what a boomer shooter is. While DUSK doesn't add anything new to the formula but it does everything that is expected perfectly. Satisfying weapons, fun and unique enemies, good level design, there is only one minor critique I can make. That is that it has only one unique weapon and look-alikes of the others can be found in many other games.
Graphics and artstyle
While the graphics are low-poly and something more akin to the 90’s it's by no means ugly. DUSK uses lighting and color to make the scenery and levels look surprisingly good.
Atmosphere
Best way I can describe it is a leisurely and very bloody stroll down to insanity that makes sure to take in all of the scenery along the way.
Soundtrack
Give it up for Andrew Hulshult. That guy consistently makes really metal ost and this one's for me among his best. Reflections of Violence is my favorite part of the ost.
Final Thoughts
Quaff beer
Devour cooked viscera
Spin sickles
Story
You are DUSK dude fighting off KKK look-alike cultists. DUSK keeps the almost no story tradition of 90’s shooters.
Gameplay
It's an FPS, but unlike other games of the genre you have adequate mobility and can hold an entire arsenal of weapons. That's pretty much what a boomer shooter is. While DUSK doesn't add anything new to the formula but it does everything that is expected perfectly. Satisfying weapons, fun and unique enemies, good level design, there is only one minor critique I can make. That is that it has only one unique weapon and look-alikes of the others can be found in many other games.
Graphics and artstyle
While the graphics are low-poly and something more akin to the 90’s it's by no means ugly. DUSK uses lighting and color to make the scenery and levels look surprisingly good.
Atmosphere
Best way I can describe it is a leisurely and very bloody stroll down to insanity that makes sure to take in all of the scenery along the way.
Soundtrack
Give it up for Andrew Hulshult. That guy consistently makes really metal ost and this one's for me among his best. Reflections of Violence is my favorite part of the ost.
Final Thoughts
Quaff beer
Devour cooked viscera
Spin sickles
2020
Project wingman is a homage to the ace combat series and a damn good one at that. It has everything you would expect of an ace combat game - arcade flight controls, weird storyline and giant planes. Personally, I think it's on an equal level compared to AC 7. Even if that's not true for you, you still have to agree that it's an arcade flight sim at a time when we don't have enough. Also, it has full VR support.
Story
The story is about a fictional civil war set in an alternate universe. You play as a mercenary pilot that doesn't talk, hired by one of the warring parties. It's entirely told through mission briefing and radio chatter, as there are no cutscenes. While this is an interesting method that could work, here it is not executed properly. The main problem is that the only thing you have to connect to any of the characters is their voice. This leads to you not being able to pay attention to who is talking while you are in the middle of a fight. It can be fixed with something as simple as a character portrait. Overall, the story is nothing special, but at least the antagonist is funny.
Gameplay
You should know what to expect from these types of games - more missiles in your plane than in an entire squadron and breaking the laws of physics at every turn. If that doesn't sound fun then don't play this game. Project wingman has some innovations on the formula - the ability to carry a variety of weapons at once, airships being more common and mouse control for PC. However, I have some criticism. These are - the mission variety is not that great and the final boss sucks. He could have been a great ending to the game, but they just had to give him a hidden health bar after you “defeat him”. This leads to you fighting him for like ⅓ more, while he is still at full power. It almost made me lower this game to a 7. The other bosses are fine.
Graphics and artstyle
Hope you like orange, there is plenty of it here. For an indie game this is very good looking. Sometimes it even looks like a AAA game, just don't look at the ground too hard.
Atmosphere
The feeling of being an unstoppable ace pilot is there, but it has been done better in other titles.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is excellent, as expected. Sounds somewhat like an ace combat OST, but it has its own flavor. “Kings” is my favorite part.
Final Thoughts
Play only with two-seater aircraft.
Story
The story is about a fictional civil war set in an alternate universe. You play as a mercenary pilot that doesn't talk, hired by one of the warring parties. It's entirely told through mission briefing and radio chatter, as there are no cutscenes. While this is an interesting method that could work, here it is not executed properly. The main problem is that the only thing you have to connect to any of the characters is their voice. This leads to you not being able to pay attention to who is talking while you are in the middle of a fight. It can be fixed with something as simple as a character portrait. Overall, the story is nothing special, but at least the antagonist is funny.
Gameplay
You should know what to expect from these types of games - more missiles in your plane than in an entire squadron and breaking the laws of physics at every turn. If that doesn't sound fun then don't play this game. Project wingman has some innovations on the formula - the ability to carry a variety of weapons at once, airships being more common and mouse control for PC. However, I have some criticism. These are - the mission variety is not that great and the final boss sucks. He could have been a great ending to the game, but they just had to give him a hidden health bar after you “defeat him”. This leads to you fighting him for like ⅓ more, while he is still at full power. It almost made me lower this game to a 7. The other bosses are fine.
Graphics and artstyle
Hope you like orange, there is plenty of it here. For an indie game this is very good looking. Sometimes it even looks like a AAA game, just don't look at the ground too hard.
Atmosphere
The feeling of being an unstoppable ace pilot is there, but it has been done better in other titles.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is excellent, as expected. Sounds somewhat like an ace combat OST, but it has its own flavor. “Kings” is my favorite part.
Final Thoughts
Play only with two-seater aircraft.
1996
(I played this on Metal slug anthology with a PS 2 emulator)
Metal slug is a 2D platformer shooter arcade game from the 90s. The main standout part of Metal slug is its amazing art. Is it worth playing? The answer to that question depends on whether you can handle the unfair difficulty of arcade games and how much nostalgia you have for the game.
Story
Contrary to what the IGDB summary might make you think - there is no story told throughout the game.
Gameplay
The core gameplay mechanics are good. Mobility wise you can go left or right and jump or crouch while shooting left right up or down or throwing a grenade. There are also special weapons with limited usage. Enemies have plenty of variety and their attacks are well telegraphed. However, there are two main problems. First is the difficulty - While the first few levels are ok, later ones had me respawning multiple times every encounter. This won't actually be that bad if not for the second issue - since it is an arcade game, there are no checkpoints. Every time you die more than 3 times, you get given the choice of restarting the whole game or respawning right back where you died. At first glance this might seem fine, but due to the hard difficulty you end up just brute forcing the entire game without any satisfaction that you've improved.
Graphics and artstyle
For me, this is the main selling point of the metal slug franchise as a whole. The artstyle of this game is phenomenal. Some of the best 2D sprite work I have ever seen in a game. Everything from the enemy soldiers to the background has so much character and style.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is pretty good as well. Favorite part is “stage 6”.
Final Thoughts
YOU'RE MINCE MEAT!!!!
Metal slug is a 2D platformer shooter arcade game from the 90s. The main standout part of Metal slug is its amazing art. Is it worth playing? The answer to that question depends on whether you can handle the unfair difficulty of arcade games and how much nostalgia you have for the game.
Story
Contrary to what the IGDB summary might make you think - there is no story told throughout the game.
Gameplay
The core gameplay mechanics are good. Mobility wise you can go left or right and jump or crouch while shooting left right up or down or throwing a grenade. There are also special weapons with limited usage. Enemies have plenty of variety and their attacks are well telegraphed. However, there are two main problems. First is the difficulty - While the first few levels are ok, later ones had me respawning multiple times every encounter. This won't actually be that bad if not for the second issue - since it is an arcade game, there are no checkpoints. Every time you die more than 3 times, you get given the choice of restarting the whole game or respawning right back where you died. At first glance this might seem fine, but due to the hard difficulty you end up just brute forcing the entire game without any satisfaction that you've improved.
Graphics and artstyle
For me, this is the main selling point of the metal slug franchise as a whole. The artstyle of this game is phenomenal. Some of the best 2D sprite work I have ever seen in a game. Everything from the enemy soldiers to the background has so much character and style.
Soundtrack
The soundtrack is pretty good as well. Favorite part is “stage 6”.
Final Thoughts
YOU'RE MINCE MEAT!!!!
Ace combat is one of those rare franchises that manages to deliver good to amazing games even more than 2 decades after its beginning. Ace combat 7 is no exception. It is a flight sim that presents flight in a very unrealistic manner. You are able to do impossible stunts, carry hundreds of missiles and other physics defying stuff. If you are a diehard player of realistic flight sims like DSC then I don't recommend AC 7, but if your knowledge of fighter jets is “they are cool” then I highly recommend you give it a try.
Story
Unlike a lot of other modern flight sims, this one has an actual story, and a fairly engaging one at that. The shortest way I can describe it is Metal Gear Solid, but worse. The storyline is set in a war between two countries in an alternate universe. It isn't your regular cookie cutter war story. By this I mean that it has some weird elements and a deeper moral message if you're willing to look for it, but it can also be very campy at times and that weirdness can go both ways. The worst part is the way they handle the characters. Some get replaced too quickly, while others seem useless.
Gameplay
It is an arcade flight sim, whereas I said before you can do impossible maneuvers and can carry dozens of missiles. This applies to all the planes in the game, of which there is a wide variety. They range from popular ones (F-22, F-15, SU 27) experimental (YF-23, SU 47, FB-22) to completely fictional (ADFX-01, X-02, Darkstar). You acquire them with points you earn during the missions. Grinding will be required if you want all the planes. In addition to aircraft, you can also get special weapons, like missiles with very long range, extra guns and more. Gameplay pacing is fantastic, as the mission you are playing is rarely similar to the previous. Bosses are okay, although they are rare. Returning players will notice one big addition to the mobility - PSM (post stall maneuver). They turn the previously improbable mobility to downright silly. Overall, I would describe the gameplay as fun. There is also multiplayer, but I couldn't be bothered with it.
Graphics and artstyle
Since you won't be looking at the ground at a very close range, it can get away with lower quality textures while still maintaining AAA levels of graphics. Other than that, everything else – plane models, weather, cutscenes make the game look very beautiful.
Atmosphere
It did make me feel like an unstoppable ace pilot at times.
Soundtrack
Probably the best in the franchise thus far. The Latin adds a level of mysticism that is just right for AC 7. Favorite part is “Archange”.
Final Thoughts
Dog.jpg
Story
Unlike a lot of other modern flight sims, this one has an actual story, and a fairly engaging one at that. The shortest way I can describe it is Metal Gear Solid, but worse. The storyline is set in a war between two countries in an alternate universe. It isn't your regular cookie cutter war story. By this I mean that it has some weird elements and a deeper moral message if you're willing to look for it, but it can also be very campy at times and that weirdness can go both ways. The worst part is the way they handle the characters. Some get replaced too quickly, while others seem useless.
Gameplay
It is an arcade flight sim, whereas I said before you can do impossible maneuvers and can carry dozens of missiles. This applies to all the planes in the game, of which there is a wide variety. They range from popular ones (F-22, F-15, SU 27) experimental (YF-23, SU 47, FB-22) to completely fictional (ADFX-01, X-02, Darkstar). You acquire them with points you earn during the missions. Grinding will be required if you want all the planes. In addition to aircraft, you can also get special weapons, like missiles with very long range, extra guns and more. Gameplay pacing is fantastic, as the mission you are playing is rarely similar to the previous. Bosses are okay, although they are rare. Returning players will notice one big addition to the mobility - PSM (post stall maneuver). They turn the previously improbable mobility to downright silly. Overall, I would describe the gameplay as fun. There is also multiplayer, but I couldn't be bothered with it.
Graphics and artstyle
Since you won't be looking at the ground at a very close range, it can get away with lower quality textures while still maintaining AAA levels of graphics. Other than that, everything else – plane models, weather, cutscenes make the game look very beautiful.
Atmosphere
It did make me feel like an unstoppable ace pilot at times.
Soundtrack
Probably the best in the franchise thus far. The Latin adds a level of mysticism that is just right for AC 7. Favorite part is “Archange”.
Final Thoughts
Dog.jpg
2D roguelike shooter. After that, you might instinctively stop reading. I however would advise you to give this game a chance. It manages to do enough to set itself apart from “Enter the Gungeon” and others of this genre. Prepare yourself for a steep learning curve, as SYNTHETIK has many mechanics. They might seem intimidating at first, but they are what make SYNTHETIK fun and replayable. Add to that a great artstyle, satisfying gun play and a good soundtrack, and you have one of my favorite roguelikes.
Story
There is almost no story. In the beginning, you are told that you have to stop the robot uprising from launching Armageddon and that's about it.
Gameplay
When you first launch the game, you will be told to select a class, of which there are 8, after that you can choose a loadout. This includes starting weapon, items, and perks. After that, you will be ready to start a run. Typically, they consist of 4 stages and the final boss. Every stage consists of multiple floors. They are randomly generated and have a variety of enemies, objects, traps, and more rarely shops and treasure. Your goal is to get from the teleporter where you started to the exit. Unfortunately, for no one, are going to have to kill a lot of robots to get there. The tools for this job consist of many guns like the regular pistols and assault rifles to saw blade launchers and ion blasters. While these are powerful, they are also very rare. Don't worry, you can make do with just the common weapons, as everyone has a variant and four slots for modifications. These can completely change the gun. Some of my favorite include: fully automatic kar 98 and divine nailgun. After shooting and killing an enemy, you try to reload and notice that you lost the remaining rounds and have none in your gun. This is because you first eject your magazine to insert a new one. What this boils down to is a QTE every time you reload so that you skip a few fractions of seconds of you reload. Another oddity is heat that builds up and damages you if you fire for too long. There are also items divided into active and passive. You can only carry a limited amount of them, so you will have to discard weaker ones as you go along. You can also acquire buff to your stats or perks. They are rarely game changing, but multiple of them can make a difference. Once in a while you will encounter a boss, they can range from a Fighter jet to an armored transporter. One of the major differences from other 2D shooter is that you can't dodge most projectiles. The general strategy is to shoot a few rounds at an enemy, go behind cover, then either do it again, relocate or use an item. Overall, SYNTHETIK is a very replayable and has some of the best 2D action I've seen.
Graphics and artstyle
SYNTHETIK doesn't try to look realistic, but it might appear like it at first glacé. It manages to nail an artstyle perfect for its aesthetic. Other than that, the sound effects are some of the best I've heard. A headshot has never sounded more impactful.
Soundtrack
Hope you like synth wave, as that's the only thing this game has. Cyberpunk combat 2 is my favorite, also coincidently whenever it kicks in is also the time I rush into a group of enemies with no hope of survival.
Final Thoughts
Hey, hey people
Story
There is almost no story. In the beginning, you are told that you have to stop the robot uprising from launching Armageddon and that's about it.
Gameplay
When you first launch the game, you will be told to select a class, of which there are 8, after that you can choose a loadout. This includes starting weapon, items, and perks. After that, you will be ready to start a run. Typically, they consist of 4 stages and the final boss. Every stage consists of multiple floors. They are randomly generated and have a variety of enemies, objects, traps, and more rarely shops and treasure. Your goal is to get from the teleporter where you started to the exit. Unfortunately, for no one, are going to have to kill a lot of robots to get there. The tools for this job consist of many guns like the regular pistols and assault rifles to saw blade launchers and ion blasters. While these are powerful, they are also very rare. Don't worry, you can make do with just the common weapons, as everyone has a variant and four slots for modifications. These can completely change the gun. Some of my favorite include: fully automatic kar 98 and divine nailgun. After shooting and killing an enemy, you try to reload and notice that you lost the remaining rounds and have none in your gun. This is because you first eject your magazine to insert a new one. What this boils down to is a QTE every time you reload so that you skip a few fractions of seconds of you reload. Another oddity is heat that builds up and damages you if you fire for too long. There are also items divided into active and passive. You can only carry a limited amount of them, so you will have to discard weaker ones as you go along. You can also acquire buff to your stats or perks. They are rarely game changing, but multiple of them can make a difference. Once in a while you will encounter a boss, they can range from a Fighter jet to an armored transporter. One of the major differences from other 2D shooter is that you can't dodge most projectiles. The general strategy is to shoot a few rounds at an enemy, go behind cover, then either do it again, relocate or use an item. Overall, SYNTHETIK is a very replayable and has some of the best 2D action I've seen.
Graphics and artstyle
SYNTHETIK doesn't try to look realistic, but it might appear like it at first glacé. It manages to nail an artstyle perfect for its aesthetic. Other than that, the sound effects are some of the best I've heard. A headshot has never sounded more impactful.
Soundtrack
Hope you like synth wave, as that's the only thing this game has. Cyberpunk combat 2 is my favorite, also coincidently whenever it kicks in is also the time I rush into a group of enemies with no hope of survival.
Final Thoughts
Hey, hey people
1998
(I played this on Metal slug Anthology on a PS 2 emulator)
Metal slug 2 is the second instalment in the Metal slug franchise. At first It was an arcade game and later it was ported to the PS 2. The game is a 2D platformer shooter with very beautiful art. Compared to the previous game it offers minor improvements in mechanics and introduces fantastical elements that would be explored further in later instalments. Overall, I would recommend it if you want more Metal slug. A fair warning - there is heavy stutter whenever there are a lot of enemies and I have seen this happen to other people.
Story
There isn’t much of a story at least in the game. The different levels have no connection, although at the end there is something that can be called narrative.
Gameplay
Gameplay mechanics are fairly simple. Mobility wise you can go left or right and jump or crouch. Shooting is only left, right, up, or down except for when you are in a vehicle. There are also special weapons with limited usage. Enemies have plenty of variety and their attacks are well telegraphed. However, the problems from the last game persist in this one. This is not an easy game – I died many times, sometimes from the same enemies. This won't actually be that bad if not for the second issue - there are no checkpoints. Every time you die more than 3 times, you get given the choice of restarting the whole game or respawning right back where you died. This just led to me brute forcing the entire game without actually trying to improve. Compared to the last game there are new vehicles, SP weapons, and you can now pick characters.
Graphics and artstyle
The artstyle of this game is phenomenal. Some of the best 2D sprite work I have ever seen in a game. Everything from the enemy soldiers to the background has so much character and style. Now with the more fantastical elements the gets to shine even more.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack is pretty good and quite memorable. It is what you would expect from an OST for 90’s arcade game. My favorite is “Back to the China”.
Final Thoughts
COME ON BOY!!!!
Metal slug 2 is the second instalment in the Metal slug franchise. At first It was an arcade game and later it was ported to the PS 2. The game is a 2D platformer shooter with very beautiful art. Compared to the previous game it offers minor improvements in mechanics and introduces fantastical elements that would be explored further in later instalments. Overall, I would recommend it if you want more Metal slug. A fair warning - there is heavy stutter whenever there are a lot of enemies and I have seen this happen to other people.
Story
There isn’t much of a story at least in the game. The different levels have no connection, although at the end there is something that can be called narrative.
Gameplay
Gameplay mechanics are fairly simple. Mobility wise you can go left or right and jump or crouch. Shooting is only left, right, up, or down except for when you are in a vehicle. There are also special weapons with limited usage. Enemies have plenty of variety and their attacks are well telegraphed. However, the problems from the last game persist in this one. This is not an easy game – I died many times, sometimes from the same enemies. This won't actually be that bad if not for the second issue - there are no checkpoints. Every time you die more than 3 times, you get given the choice of restarting the whole game or respawning right back where you died. This just led to me brute forcing the entire game without actually trying to improve. Compared to the last game there are new vehicles, SP weapons, and you can now pick characters.
Graphics and artstyle
The artstyle of this game is phenomenal. Some of the best 2D sprite work I have ever seen in a game. Everything from the enemy soldiers to the background has so much character and style. Now with the more fantastical elements the gets to shine even more.
Soundtrack
Soundtrack is pretty good and quite memorable. It is what you would expect from an OST for 90’s arcade game. My favorite is “Back to the China”.
Final Thoughts
COME ON BOY!!!!
2018
(I didn’t finish this game)
Project Warlock is a classic FPS similar to Wolfenstein 3D. This means that there is no need to look up or down as everything will be on one axis. All verticality is purely visual. Although it has some amazing pixel art and satisfying weapons, the lack of differentiation between level design and its length holds it back. I would recommend it if you simply want to mindlessly shoot at monsters.
Story
You have to kill multiple evils so that you can fight and kill the great evil. This is not a game to play for the story.
Gameplay
Just like in older games like Wolfenstein 3D, only the x-axis matters. It allows you to look up and down but it serves no practical function. This also extends to the level design – you are never above or below enemies, and you never move up or down. Another similarity between Project Warlock and its predecessors is its overreliance on key hunts, which in this game is almost every level. All of this leads to the levels blending in together and becoming forgettable. The weapons are at least an upgrade. There is wide variety of them and each one can upgraded to one of two better versions. Don’t expect much interaction between them and also the only reason you have for using weaker guns is if run out of ammo. There is also magic that you can use to deal extra damage and level up system in which you can invest points to increase your stats. Enemies have plenty of variety in them but again no y-axis. Bosses are mostly just bullet sponges.
Graphics and artstyle
Project Warlock has amazing pixel art. Everything from the walls to the guns and foes is beautifully illustrated. There is also great particle effect and lighting.
Atmosphere
Whatever atmosphere that it tries to build is crushed by its simplicity.
Soundtrack
This game has a 5 HOUR soundtrack. It’s alright.
Final Thoughts
Could be better.
Project Warlock is a classic FPS similar to Wolfenstein 3D. This means that there is no need to look up or down as everything will be on one axis. All verticality is purely visual. Although it has some amazing pixel art and satisfying weapons, the lack of differentiation between level design and its length holds it back. I would recommend it if you simply want to mindlessly shoot at monsters.
Story
You have to kill multiple evils so that you can fight and kill the great evil. This is not a game to play for the story.
Gameplay
Just like in older games like Wolfenstein 3D, only the x-axis matters. It allows you to look up and down but it serves no practical function. This also extends to the level design – you are never above or below enemies, and you never move up or down. Another similarity between Project Warlock and its predecessors is its overreliance on key hunts, which in this game is almost every level. All of this leads to the levels blending in together and becoming forgettable. The weapons are at least an upgrade. There is wide variety of them and each one can upgraded to one of two better versions. Don’t expect much interaction between them and also the only reason you have for using weaker guns is if run out of ammo. There is also magic that you can use to deal extra damage and level up system in which you can invest points to increase your stats. Enemies have plenty of variety in them but again no y-axis. Bosses are mostly just bullet sponges.
Graphics and artstyle
Project Warlock has amazing pixel art. Everything from the walls to the guns and foes is beautifully illustrated. There is also great particle effect and lighting.
Atmosphere
Whatever atmosphere that it tries to build is crushed by its simplicity.
Soundtrack
This game has a 5 HOUR soundtrack. It’s alright.
Final Thoughts
Could be better.