Certified DC-core
Either my all-time favorites or games that hold a special place for me - like walking down a timeline of DC defining titles.
139 Games
Played On: NES
Not my first Mario game, but definitely the one I dove into the hardest. I remember rushing home from school to a friend's house and we'd boot it up, taking turns trying to beat it. Pipe Land was always the run killer. So much imagination pumped into the levels, and the amount of secrets blew my mind as a kid.
Not my first Mario game, but definitely the one I dove into the hardest. I remember rushing home from school to a friend's house and we'd boot it up, taking turns trying to beat it. Pipe Land was always the run killer. So much imagination pumped into the levels, and the amount of secrets blew my mind as a kid.
Played On: NES
Such a huge level up from the original Mega Man with one of the best retro gaming soundtracks ever. You also get to fight a mecha-dragon and an alien which is peak.
Such a huge level up from the original Mega Man with one of the best retro gaming soundtracks ever. You also get to fight a mecha-dragon and an alien which is peak.
Played On: MS-DOS
Guybrush Threepwood is my hero and took me on so many adventures as a kid with ridiculous humor and loveable characters. I owe every come-back I've ever used to the sword fighting in Monkey Island.
Guybrush Threepwood is my hero and took me on so many adventures as a kid with ridiculous humor and loveable characters. I owe every come-back I've ever used to the sword fighting in Monkey Island.
Played On: SNES
Wu-wu-wu-wu-wu-wah....sorry, I just got my cape power-up. Yeah, I mean the level design is incredible and the game introduces Yoshi, but I think the real super power of the game is how the sound effects are still stuck in my head daily.
Wu-wu-wu-wu-wu-wah....sorry, I just got my cape power-up. Yeah, I mean the level design is incredible and the game introduces Yoshi, but I think the real super power of the game is how the sound effects are still stuck in my head daily.
Played On: Arcade + SNES
So much time spent on this between the arcades and a friend's SNES just playing all day. He was always Leonardo and I was always Donatello, and we always kicked ass, ate pizza, and wasted hours away as kids should. Turtles in Time also had a lot of good mix-ups between the sewer levels, normal brawlers, and fun moments like having to throw enemies at Shredder's screen.
So much time spent on this between the arcades and a friend's SNES just playing all day. He was always Leonardo and I was always Donatello, and we always kicked ass, ate pizza, and wasted hours away as kids should. Turtles in Time also had a lot of good mix-ups between the sewer levels, normal brawlers, and fun moments like having to throw enemies at Shredder's screen.
Played On: Sega Genesis
Flashback to me playing this on my Sega Genesis over and over again without having any idea what I'm doing or where I was going, but having a blast getting completely lost and immersed in the world and art. Such a cozy, beautiful game that has stuck with me forever.
Flashback to me playing this on my Sega Genesis over and over again without having any idea what I'm doing or where I was going, but having a blast getting completely lost and immersed in the world and art. Such a cozy, beautiful game that has stuck with me forever.
Played On: SNES
Whenever I think of "Adventure Games," Link to the Past is the first one that comes to mind as the poster-child for adventure, with all of its items, bosses, and classic fantasy feel. I had played the original Zelda on NES (I was enamored with the gold cartridge - it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen), but I think I was too young to figure it out. Link to the Past really drew me in felt like that adventure that I had wanted all along.
Whenever I think of "Adventure Games," Link to the Past is the first one that comes to mind as the poster-child for adventure, with all of its items, bosses, and classic fantasy feel. I had played the original Zelda on NES (I was enamored with the gold cartridge - it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen), but I think I was too young to figure it out. Link to the Past really drew me in felt like that adventure that I had wanted all along.
Played On: MS-DOS
My mind was blown when I played this game, comparing it to the first one with just the sheer amount of new polish it had. It was absolutely stunning at the time. Then, I hit the ending and I think my little child brain melted.
My mind was blown when I played this game, comparing it to the first one with just the sheer amount of new polish it had. It was absolutely stunning at the time. Then, I hit the ending and I think my little child brain melted.
Played On: NES
Whenever I would go visit my Dad, this was the game they had available at the grocery store to rent, and I grabbed it every time. Pharoah Man was the COOLEST Robot Master I'd ever seen, and the levels were amazingly creative.
Whenever I would go visit my Dad, this was the game they had available at the grocery store to rent, and I grabbed it every time. Pharoah Man was the COOLEST Robot Master I'd ever seen, and the levels were amazingly creative.
Played On: Arcade
This was the game that I always raced for at the arcade. I was a huge fan of the X-Men cartoon series and whatever comics I could get my hands on, and so getting to play as them was a dream come true. Plus, I just loved that era of costumes. Classic.
This was the game that I always raced for at the arcade. I was a huge fan of the X-Men cartoon series and whatever comics I could get my hands on, and so getting to play as them was a dream come true. Plus, I just loved that era of costumes. Classic.
Played On: MS-DOS
I remember when we first got this game, I thought it was based on the Batman the Animated Series game "The Riddle of the Minotaur," but when the hours long, eight disk install completed, instead I was rewarded with a vibrant pixel world of puzzles and magic. Stills from The Hand of Fate are burned into my memory, like the Octopus outside the pirate bar, or the giant rabbit statue along a cliff.
I remember when we first got this game, I thought it was based on the Batman the Animated Series game "The Riddle of the Minotaur," but when the hours long, eight disk install completed, instead I was rewarded with a vibrant pixel world of puzzles and magic. Stills from The Hand of Fate are burned into my memory, like the Octopus outside the pirate bar, or the giant rabbit statue along a cliff.
Played On: NES
One of the few games I actually owned on the NES, I played the absolute crap out of Kirby's Adventure over and over. It's one of the best looking NES games and was easy enough that I could usually make it to the final boss, Nightmare. Whereupon I would get my ass kicked almost every time. It took me forever to beat this game as a kid but it was so rewarding once I conquered it and returned peace to Dream Land.
One of the few games I actually owned on the NES, I played the absolute crap out of Kirby's Adventure over and over. It's one of the best looking NES games and was easy enough that I could usually make it to the final boss, Nightmare. Whereupon I would get my ass kicked almost every time. It took me forever to beat this game as a kid but it was so rewarding once I conquered it and returned peace to Dream Land.
Played On: Arcade + SNES
Playing as mascots was the funniest thing ever to me - I really loved the Hornets one, and they were awesome in this game. This was the ultimate just pick up the controller and play game, and we all loved it.
Playing as mascots was the funniest thing ever to me - I really loved the Hornets one, and they were awesome in this game. This was the ultimate just pick up the controller and play game, and we all loved it.
Played On: MS-DOS
Having played some of Maniac Mansion on my step-dad's old Commodore 64, seeing this game was a holy shit moment for me, and I played it over and over again. I loved the characters, the humor, and the time travel puzzles were very fun and satisfying to pull off. It's also one of those games I kind of grew up with - I kept playing it even as I got older and more and more of the jokes started to make sense with lots of little "aha" moments along the way.
Having played some of Maniac Mansion on my step-dad's old Commodore 64, seeing this game was a holy shit moment for me, and I played it over and over again. I loved the characters, the humor, and the time travel puzzles were very fun and satisfying to pull off. It's also one of those games I kind of grew up with - I kept playing it even as I got older and more and more of the jokes started to make sense with lots of little "aha" moments along the way.
Played On: Mac OS
Whenever I would visit my Dad, he had a Mac, so there weren't a lot of computer games available to play with. However, he did have Myst, and I became completely enamored with the half-spooky, half-calming worlds - traversing the treetops in Channelwood, or listening to the rain in the Stoneship Age.
Whenever I would visit my Dad, he had a Mac, so there weren't a lot of computer games available to play with. However, he did have Myst, and I became completely enamored with the half-spooky, half-calming worlds - traversing the treetops in Channelwood, or listening to the rain in the Stoneship Age.
Played On: Arcade
Another arcade classic - I loved MK1, but Mortal Kombat II was always the clear choice because of the goofy friendship and babalities, as well as being able to actually play as Reptile.
Another arcade classic - I loved MK1, but Mortal Kombat II was always the clear choice because of the goofy friendship and babalities, as well as being able to actually play as Reptile.
Played On: MS-DOS
An adventure to find a bigfoot and his giraffe-necked girlfriend, Sam and Max goes full-throttle (LucasArts pun) from the first moments of the game until the wholesome conclusion. The game-world is a wacky and kitsch version of the United States and feels like an epic road trip with two crazy friends. It's like Americana, the game.
An adventure to find a bigfoot and his giraffe-necked girlfriend, Sam and Max goes full-throttle (LucasArts pun) from the first moments of the game until the wholesome conclusion. The game-world is a wacky and kitsch version of the United States and feels like an epic road trip with two crazy friends. It's like Americana, the game.
Played On: NES
Using the Rush adapter for the first time was amazing, and 6 has some great robot designs (thank you fan contest) and stages. It's also a fairly easy entry in the series, which makes it a very fun replay.
Using the Rush adapter for the first time was amazing, and 6 has some great robot designs (thank you fan contest) and stages. It's also a fairly easy entry in the series, which makes it a very fun replay.
Played On: SNES
Easily my favorite game when I was a kid. Mega Man X is just perfect - badass bosses, fun powers, quick movement, Zero's first appearance, and impeccable level design, plus a weirdly almost neo-noir plot spin-off of Blade Runner. X controls like a dream and blasting through levels to the amazing OST just never gets old.
Easily my favorite game when I was a kid. Mega Man X is just perfect - badass bosses, fun powers, quick movement, Zero's first appearance, and impeccable level design, plus a weirdly almost neo-noir plot spin-off of Blade Runner. X controls like a dream and blasting through levels to the amazing OST just never gets old.
Played On: SNES + ZSNES
Onett theme goes hard as hell and so does Earthbound's vibes. My cousins had a copy of this when I was younger, and I loved going over to their place and just wandering around not even really knowing what was happening except I was a cool kid with a baseball bat and magic friends. Later I played it through emulation and it's like the perfect amalgamation of everything I like - cults, aliens, psychic powers, baseball bats, and 90s nostalgia.
Onett theme goes hard as hell and so does Earthbound's vibes. My cousins had a copy of this when I was younger, and I loved going over to their place and just wandering around not even really knowing what was happening except I was a cool kid with a baseball bat and magic friends. Later I played it through emulation and it's like the perfect amalgamation of everything I like - cults, aliens, psychic powers, baseball bats, and 90s nostalgia.
Played On: Arcade
It was always super hard to find this arcade game, but there was a pizza place that had a machine and I would drag my step-dad there so we could eat pizza and play together. I loved the artwork and blasting away at DnD monsters with spells, or using the cleric's shield to block attacks and heal the party.
It was always super hard to find this arcade game, but there was a pizza place that had a machine and I would drag my step-dad there so we could eat pizza and play together. I loved the artwork and blasting away at DnD monsters with spells, or using the cleric's shield to block attacks and heal the party.
Played On: MS-DOS
YOU FIGHT BOBA FETT. How cool is that? Very cool back when Boba Fett was still cool. I had never played a Star Wars game before this one aside from TIE Fighter, so being first person in this universe was mind-blowing fun.
YOU FIGHT BOBA FETT. How cool is that? Very cool back when Boba Fett was still cool. I had never played a Star Wars game before this one aside from TIE Fighter, so being first person in this universe was mind-blowing fun.
Played On: Snes9x - Android
I was a late-comer to Chrono Trigger, and I first finished the game playing it on my phone while I was supposed to be working - I couldn't put it down! The story and world are both exciting and feel real, oozing with adventure and charm.
I was a late-comer to Chrono Trigger, and I first finished the game playing it on my phone while I was supposed to be working - I couldn't put it down! The story and world are both exciting and feel real, oozing with adventure and charm.
Played On: ZSNES
I love Mega Man 7 for it's uniqueness compared to the other Mega Man games at the time. I think differentiating itself from the MMX games on the same console by making it more cartoonish and bright with wacky dinosaur and vampire robot masters really makes 7 stand out, and gives it a freshness that some of the other classic games lack. They also introduce Bass and improve upon the Rush Adapter system in his boss battle which I loved.
I love Mega Man 7 for it's uniqueness compared to the other Mega Man games at the time. I think differentiating itself from the MMX games on the same console by making it more cartoonish and bright with wacky dinosaur and vampire robot masters really makes 7 stand out, and gives it a freshness that some of the other classic games lack. They also introduce Bass and improve upon the Rush Adapter system in his boss battle which I loved.
Played On: SNES
RAUGH! Sorry, I just stepped on a kremling. Amazing level design that can range from sprawling to sprint-right and reflex jump, with platforming puzzles and animal companions and pirate crocs and improved boss fights and and and...damn I love this game. It can be frustratingly hard at times, but that's why they put the best songs in the hardest levels. Bramble Blast is a treasure. I owned this and DKC3 on SNES at my dad's house and it's one of those that took me years to finally beat since I couldn't play it regularly.
RAUGH! Sorry, I just stepped on a kremling. Amazing level design that can range from sprawling to sprint-right and reflex jump, with platforming puzzles and animal companions and pirate crocs and improved boss fights and and and...damn I love this game. It can be frustratingly hard at times, but that's why they put the best songs in the hardest levels. Bramble Blast is a treasure. I owned this and DKC3 on SNES at my dad's house and it's one of those that took me years to finally beat since I couldn't play it regularly.
Played On: MS-DOS
Classic LAN party game - we'd get together and add the max number of players into the game between us and CPUs. The game was work together to destroy the CPUs and then turn on each other to determine a winner. Zug zug - I still have the peon responses stuck in my head.
Classic LAN party game - we'd get together and add the max number of players into the game between us and CPUs. The game was work together to destroy the CPUs and then turn on each other to determine a winner. Zug zug - I still have the peon responses stuck in my head.
Played On: GameBoy Classic
As soon as I got my Pokémon Blue cartridge into my GameBoy, I never put it down. I carried that thing everywhere - to school, to restaurants, to church, running errands, every single car ride. We were inseparable, and every kid around me with their GameBoy was the exact same way - a generation entranced. Squirtle was my starter, and I didn't really understand how to play so I leveled him up and none of my other Pokémon were any good. Yes, you may have a type advantage, but nice try trainer with level 30 Pokémon, my Blastoise is level 70.
As soon as I got my Pokémon Blue cartridge into my GameBoy, I never put it down. I carried that thing everywhere - to school, to restaurants, to church, running errands, every single car ride. We were inseparable, and every kid around me with their GameBoy was the exact same way - a generation entranced. Squirtle was my starter, and I didn't really understand how to play so I leveled him up and none of my other Pokémon were any good. Yes, you may have a type advantage, but nice try trainer with level 30 Pokémon, my Blastoise is level 70.
Played On: PC
The Neverhood was so hard for me as a kid, but I just kept playing and playing because the animation, art direction, and soundtrack are all absolutely phenomenal. The puzzles are satisfying and the characters are cute. Who can't relate to the robot that just wants his teddy bear?
The Neverhood was so hard for me as a kid, but I just kept playing and playing because the animation, art direction, and soundtrack are all absolutely phenomenal. The puzzles are satisfying and the characters are cute. Who can't relate to the robot that just wants his teddy bear?
Played On: SNES
Donkey Kong Country 3 took the several rambling and sprawling levels of Diddy's Kong Quest and said let's make these the entire game. The level design gets nuts and pretty wacky with gimmicks and animal companions, which I absolutely adore. It's a wild ride and I appreciate the creativity showcased especially in the latter half of the game.
Donkey Kong Country 3 took the several rambling and sprawling levels of Diddy's Kong Quest and said let's make these the entire game. The level design gets nuts and pretty wacky with gimmicks and animal companions, which I absolutely adore. It's a wild ride and I appreciate the creativity showcased especially in the latter half of the game.
Played On: PC
Cue the atmospheric guitar because we're going dungeon delving. The first Diablo is an absolute masterpiece in atmosphere and creepy vignette storytelling with all of its small side quests as you dive deeper and deeper under Tristram, learning spells, finding loot, and discovering more and more horrible enemies. I think everyone that played this when it came out still remembers the first time they opened a door and heard "FRESH MEAT."
Cue the atmospheric guitar because we're going dungeon delving. The first Diablo is an absolute masterpiece in atmosphere and creepy vignette storytelling with all of its small side quests as you dive deeper and deeper under Tristram, learning spells, finding loot, and discovering more and more horrible enemies. I think everyone that played this when it came out still remembers the first time they opened a door and heard "FRESH MEAT."
Played On: PS4
Can't talk about Symphony of the Night without mentioning its masterfully crunchy pixel art. The game looks like a dream and every area of the castle oozes charm from the enemies, bosses, music, and yes, the busted magic spells. I played this one for the first time around Halloween one year and my fondness for it has only grown over time. It's easy to see why other games have been so inspired by it over the years.
Can't talk about Symphony of the Night without mentioning its masterfully crunchy pixel art. The game looks like a dream and every area of the castle oozes charm from the enemies, bosses, music, and yes, the busted magic spells. I played this one for the first time around Halloween one year and my fondness for it has only grown over time. It's easy to see why other games have been so inspired by it over the years.
Played On: Arcade
I was always drawn to this one, and the other Darkstalkers games, because of the amazing artwork and theme obviously, but the combo system's simplicity makes it a joy to play as well. Easy to play match after match and not feel like you're outplayed because you didn't memorize a 12-hit combo string.
I was always drawn to this one, and the other Darkstalkers games, because of the amazing artwork and theme obviously, but the combo system's simplicity makes it a joy to play as well. Easy to play match after match and not feel like you're outplayed because you didn't memorize a 12-hit combo string.
Played On: PSX
This isn't a Mega Man game - it's a Zero game. The levels flow better, the bosses are more fun, and Zero is just kick ass with his saber. Zero's playthrough also has some of the best voice acting work in video game history.
This isn't a Mega Man game - it's a Zero game. The levels flow better, the bosses are more fun, and Zero is just kick ass with his saber. Zero's playthrough also has some of the best voice acting work in video game history.
I'm a mongo footed professor gnar gnar! One of the first computer games I owned, I spent hours upon hours in it just building cars, jetskis, and riding around town as Pepper on my skateboard. I am ashamed how long it took me to even realize there was a "game" outside of the sandbox, but countless time was poured into just walking around the island and vibing.
Played On: PC
Playing this game for the first time, the dark jedi were terrifying (Maw really freaked me out) and amazing, and getting to battle them with my own force powers and lightsaber was mindblowing. The shooting in Jedi Knight is fun too - toggle auto-run and it's so fast that it's almost a twitch shooter. The levels are fun to run around in, and Kyle Katarn is one of the best characters in Star Wars.
Playing this game for the first time, the dark jedi were terrifying (Maw really freaked me out) and amazing, and getting to battle them with my own force powers and lightsaber was mindblowing. The shooting in Jedi Knight is fun too - toggle auto-run and it's so fast that it's almost a twitch shooter. The levels are fun to run around in, and Kyle Katarn is one of the best characters in Star Wars.
Played On: PC
Riven takes the atmospheric mystery and puzzles of Myst and turns it up to 11 while also focusing on environmental storytelling to really bring the Age of Riven to life. The puzzles also feel organically woven into the world which provides cohesion and a lived-in quality to the game world, something that I think a lot of puzzle games struggle with.
Riven takes the atmospheric mystery and puzzles of Myst and turns it up to 11 while also focusing on environmental storytelling to really bring the Age of Riven to life. The puzzles also feel organically woven into the world which provides cohesion and a lived-in quality to the game world, something that I think a lot of puzzle games struggle with.
Played On: PC
One of the best looking point-and-click games of all time with hilarious jokes and more pirate shenanigans. If anyone wanted to get into the Monkey Island games, this is the one I would recommend. Just an absolute classic. Even without Ron Gilbert, the game manages to retain the vibes of the originals.
One of the best looking point-and-click games of all time with hilarious jokes and more pirate shenanigans. If anyone wanted to get into the Monkey Island games, this is the one I would recommend. Just an absolute classic. Even without Ron Gilbert, the game manages to retain the vibes of the originals.
Played On: SNES
Completely cozy game with watercolor graphics and animal companions to give Kirby some friends. This was one of my go-to relaxing and chilling games as a kid.
Completely cozy game with watercolor graphics and animal companions to give Kirby some friends. This was one of my go-to relaxing and chilling games as a kid.
Played On: PC
This game absolutely blew my mind when it came out with how good it looked both from a technical standpoint and the art design with industrial sci-fi mixing against alien landscapes and architecture. Running through the world of Unreal really did feel like I was on another planet.
This game absolutely blew my mind when it came out with how good it looked both from a technical standpoint and the art design with industrial sci-fi mixing against alien landscapes and architecture. Running through the world of Unreal really did feel like I was on another planet.
Played On: PC
Fallout 2 is THE Fallout game - the one that, in my mind, defines the series regarding lore, tone, and world-building. It is incredibly rich in characters and ideas with roleplaying opportunities and interesting stories around every corner. I actually played this one after Fallout 3, as I wanted to learn more about the universe, and seeing how different the worlds were presented blew my mind.
Fallout 2 is THE Fallout game - the one that, in my mind, defines the series regarding lore, tone, and world-building. It is incredibly rich in characters and ideas with roleplaying opportunities and interesting stories around every corner. I actually played this one after Fallout 3, as I wanted to learn more about the universe, and seeing how different the worlds were presented blew my mind.
Played On: Sega Dreamcast
Yeah, I had a Dreamcast. I barely had any games for it, and for the longest time the only ones I did have were House of the Dead 2 and NFL 2k, so I played the absolute crap out of both of them. House of the Dead 2 is ridiculous B-movie fun with insane voice acting and protagonists that respond to everything as if they are aliens. The monster designs are creepy and weird, and the whole game feels like a fever dream. I love it.
Yeah, I had a Dreamcast. I barely had any games for it, and for the longest time the only ones I did have were House of the Dead 2 and NFL 2k, so I played the absolute crap out of both of them. House of the Dead 2 is ridiculous B-movie fun with insane voice acting and protagonists that respond to everything as if they are aliens. The monster designs are creepy and weird, and the whole game feels like a fever dream. I love it.
Played On: PC
The original Baldur's Gate games are my favorite games of all time, hands down. I've been playing this game for 25 years now and I don't think I'll ever stop. Playing this for the first time was a wonderful adventure and while I didn't fully understand the mechanics, I threw myself into the world over and over again just to experience the magic of the Sword Coast and its stories.
The original Baldur's Gate games are my favorite games of all time, hands down. I've been playing this game for 25 years now and I don't think I'll ever stop. Playing this for the first time was a wonderful adventure and while I didn't fully understand the mechanics, I threw myself into the world over and over again just to experience the magic of the Sword Coast and its stories.
Played On: N64
When I got to college, I had never played a Smash Bros. game before and I was terrible. I loved it though and desperately wanted to be good, so my roommate (who was actually good) would play team matches of him vs me and 3 CPUs. Then eventually we took away one of the CPUs, and then the next, and then the next and finally we could 1v1. I've loved Smash Bros. ever since and have played every game in the series now, but that memory still remains as one of my favorite gaming experiences. Pikachu + Ness 4 lyfe.
When I got to college, I had never played a Smash Bros. game before and I was terrible. I loved it though and desperately wanted to be good, so my roommate (who was actually good) would play team matches of him vs me and 3 CPUs. Then eventually we took away one of the CPUs, and then the next, and then the next and finally we could 1v1. I've loved Smash Bros. ever since and have played every game in the series now, but that memory still remains as one of my favorite gaming experiences. Pikachu + Ness 4 lyfe.
Played On: PC
My step-dad and I used to play this with each other all the time, just building our civilizations and destroying CPU opponents before turning on each other. I loved the aesthetic and vibes so much that I would sometimes just play solo without any enemies on a custom map just to build out a little civilization for fun. Wololo.
My step-dad and I used to play this with each other all the time, just building our civilizations and destroying CPU opponents before turning on each other. I loved the aesthetic and vibes so much that I would sometimes just play solo without any enemies on a custom map just to build out a little civilization for fun. Wololo.
Played On: PC
My fondest memories of Quake III are when we installed the demo version onto the high school's network drive, so a bunch of us would play against each other while in BCIS or Keyboarding or just while we were supposed to be in study hall at the library.
My fondest memories of Quake III are when we installed the demo version onto the high school's network drive, so a bunch of us would play against each other while in BCIS or Keyboarding or just while we were supposed to be in study hall at the library.
Played On: PC
Where Baldur's Gate and its sequel revel in being classic stories of heroism and grandeur, Planescape is weird, grungy, and mind-bending. The interweaving of companions stories into the main narrative makes the world feel complete, as you try to piece together the game's most pressing question: what can change the nature of a man?
Where Baldur's Gate and its sequel revel in being classic stories of heroism and grandeur, Planescape is weird, grungy, and mind-bending. The interweaving of companions stories into the main narrative makes the world feel complete, as you try to piece together the game's most pressing question: what can change the nature of a man?
Played On: PC
The first thing anyone sees the when they look at Garage is the grotesque art design of the characters and world - it's shocking and hard to look past at first. However, as you delve deeper into the game it becomes weirdly beautiful and comforting in an unexpected way, which mirrors the explorations of abuse's consequences on the human psyche.
The first thing anyone sees the when they look at Garage is the grotesque art design of the characters and world - it's shocking and hard to look past at first. However, as you delve deeper into the game it becomes weirdly beautiful and comforting in an unexpected way, which mirrors the explorations of abuse's consequences on the human psyche.
Played On: Sega Dreamcast + Arcade
I didn't know who half of the Capcom characters were, but I loved playing as Spider-Man, Storm, Mega-Man, and Wolverine, so I just ran tournaments over and over against the CPU on my Dreamcast, making up stupid stories in my head about why these people were fighting. I loved playing X-Men Children of the Atom at the arcade, so when MvC came out, I had to have it.
I didn't know who half of the Capcom characters were, but I loved playing as Spider-Man, Storm, Mega-Man, and Wolverine, so I just ran tournaments over and over against the CPU on my Dreamcast, making up stupid stories in my head about why these people were fighting. I loved playing X-Men Children of the Atom at the arcade, so when MvC came out, I had to have it.
Played On: PC
The leap from Diablo to Diablo II was insane with just how much they expanded the lore and gameplay. The larger world and different regions make chasing Diablo feel epic, and the introduction of class specific skills breathe life into the characters and emphasize replaying with new strategies and builds. I was never a huge online person, but taking a new character from Level 1 all the way through Hell difficulty is always an exciting adventure.
The leap from Diablo to Diablo II was insane with just how much they expanded the lore and gameplay. The larger world and different regions make chasing Diablo feel epic, and the introduction of class specific skills breathe life into the characters and emphasize replaying with new strategies and builds. I was never a huge online person, but taking a new character from Level 1 all the way through Hell difficulty is always an exciting adventure.
Played On: PC
Beautiful and serene, Icewind Dale's freezing atmosphere provides a backdrop for an epic, yet solemn, adventure. The world feels alive, and while the player's party does not have any personality (outside of personal rp), the characters and setting drive the story as the party makes their way through the world.
Beautiful and serene, Icewind Dale's freezing atmosphere provides a backdrop for an epic, yet solemn, adventure. The world feels alive, and while the player's party does not have any personality (outside of personal rp), the characters and setting drive the story as the party makes their way through the world.
Played On: PC - Moguri Mod
A powerful adventure full of personality and charm reflected in the atmospheric storytelling of the world and the colorful cast. Each character is a treasure with their own personality and I want to hug them all.
A powerful adventure full of personality and charm reflected in the atmospheric storytelling of the world and the colorful cast. Each character is a treasure with their own personality and I want to hug them all.
Played On: M64Plus FZ - Android
Incredibly charming and quaint, I loved exploring the Mushroom Kingdom in Paper Mario. Simplicity in mechanics works wonders as the artstyle, connected world traversal, and character encounters do the heavy lifting for Paper Mario. I had a smile on my face the entire time while playing this.
Incredibly charming and quaint, I loved exploring the Mushroom Kingdom in Paper Mario. Simplicity in mechanics works wonders as the artstyle, connected world traversal, and character encounters do the heavy lifting for Paper Mario. I had a smile on my face the entire time while playing this.
Played On: PC
An amazing journey filled with incredibly deep combat, a charming cast of characters, and beautiful hand-drawn maps. It's my favorite game ever with a fascinating world that spans from the bustling city of Athkatla to pastoral forests and even the pits of Hell. I never get tired of it.
An amazing journey filled with incredibly deep combat, a charming cast of characters, and beautiful hand-drawn maps. It's my favorite game ever with a fascinating world that spans from the bustling city of Athkatla to pastoral forests and even the pits of Hell. I never get tired of it.
Played On: MyOldBoy - Android
There's just something undeniably comfy about Johto and its Pokémon inhabitants. I actually didn't play the 2nd Generation of Pokémon until quite a bit later, but I felt like a kid again running around with my Typhlosion.
There's just something undeniably comfy about Johto and its Pokémon inhabitants. I actually didn't play the 2nd Generation of Pokémon until quite a bit later, but I felt like a kid again running around with my Typhlosion.
Played On: PS2
My first foray into the Metal Gear Solid universe, and even as a new player, I was bamboozled by the switch to Raiden. However, that's just a taste of the many twist and turns Sons of Liberty takes as it weaves its story of espionage complete with vampires, bullet-stopping luck, and, of course, giant robots.
My first foray into the Metal Gear Solid universe, and even as a new player, I was bamboozled by the switch to Raiden. However, that's just a taste of the many twist and turns Sons of Liberty takes as it weaves its story of espionage complete with vampires, bullet-stopping luck, and, of course, giant robots.
Played On: PC
Nazis, supersoldiers, zombies, and demon princes populate the expertly designed levels in this alternate version of World War 2. I had watched my step-dad play the original Wolfenstein and always wanted to play but wasn't allowed, so RtCW was my first Wolfenstein game. It starts off with a bang - throwing you right into the titular castle, and from there taking you on a ride through catacombs and into science labs with flying supersoldiers that scared the shit out of me.
Nazis, supersoldiers, zombies, and demon princes populate the expertly designed levels in this alternate version of World War 2. I had watched my step-dad play the original Wolfenstein and always wanted to play but wasn't allowed, so RtCW was my first Wolfenstein game. It starts off with a bang - throwing you right into the titular castle, and from there taking you on a ride through catacombs and into science labs with flying supersoldiers that scared the shit out of me.
Played On: PC - Enhanced Edition
Silent Hill 2 somehow takes desolate grime and makes it cozy with an introspective soundtrack, only to throw you in the horror deep end again with sexualized monsters, dark pits, and unhinged voice acting. I was not prepared for the emotional journey of exploring the town of Silent Hill, but it's one that will stick with me for a long time.
Silent Hill 2 somehow takes desolate grime and makes it cozy with an introspective soundtrack, only to throw you in the horror deep end again with sexualized monsters, dark pits, and unhinged voice acting. I was not prepared for the emotional journey of exploring the town of Silent Hill, but it's one that will stick with me for a long time.
Played On: PC
A Jedi adventure with sniper rifles and rocket launchers, Jedi Outcast is equal parts hack and slash and FPS. The story is pretty decent, but the gameplay is what kept me enthralled for hours and hours as a kid - I mean you got a rifle that would disintegrate someone; it was awesome. I also remember a mod where you would fight waves of Dark Jedi while Prodigy's Smack My Bitch Up looped in the background. Peak.
A Jedi adventure with sniper rifles and rocket launchers, Jedi Outcast is equal parts hack and slash and FPS. The story is pretty decent, but the gameplay is what kept me enthralled for hours and hours as a kid - I mean you got a rifle that would disintegrate someone; it was awesome. I also remember a mod where you would fight waves of Dark Jedi while Prodigy's Smack My Bitch Up looped in the background. Peak.
Played On: PC
The best thing about Morrowind is that it's just weird - mushroom towers, jungle romans, strange floating palaces, and a giant volcano - it's the best setting the Elder Scrolls has ever had. The second best thing is the sheer amount of freedom afforded to you while you explore the deep lore of Vvardenfell and its people, like crafting weapons with custom magic effects (I made a spear that would turn me invisible every time I attacked), or trying to find the perfect combination of spells to launch yourself across the continent for speedy travel.
The best thing about Morrowind is that it's just weird - mushroom towers, jungle romans, strange floating palaces, and a giant volcano - it's the best setting the Elder Scrolls has ever had. The second best thing is the sheer amount of freedom afforded to you while you explore the deep lore of Vvardenfell and its people, like crafting weapons with custom magic effects (I made a spear that would turn me invisible every time I attacked), or trying to find the perfect combination of spells to launch yourself across the continent for speedy travel.
Played On: PC
I guess I'm one of the few weirdos out there that actually really enjoys the main NWN campaign. It has some interesting ideas and zones like Charwood, a living snow globe, and an inn with an adventurer's dungeon beneath it, as well as a sleepy, dreamy atmosphere that I really enjoy. The two expansions are wonderful, and Shadows of Undrentide introduces one of my favorite NPCs ever - Deekin the Kobold Bard.
I guess I'm one of the few weirdos out there that actually really enjoys the main NWN campaign. It has some interesting ideas and zones like Charwood, a living snow globe, and an inn with an adventurer's dungeon beneath it, as well as a sleepy, dreamy atmosphere that I really enjoy. The two expansions are wonderful, and Shadows of Undrentide introduces one of my favorite NPCs ever - Deekin the Kobold Bard.
Played On: PC
Following in its predecessor's footsteps, Icewind Dale II is full of gorgeous art and creative locations that pull you in with mystery and poetic intrigue. The narrative also has its twists and turns, but it's full of interesting vignettes that flesh out the world as you journey your way through puzzles and combat.
Following in its predecessor's footsteps, Icewind Dale II is full of gorgeous art and creative locations that pull you in with mystery and poetic intrigue. The narrative also has its twists and turns, but it's full of interesting vignettes that flesh out the world as you journey your way through puzzles and combat.
Played On: Nintendo Switch
Experiencing Samus's vision in first person is incredibly immersive and spellbinding. I love how alien the world feels at first and how comfortable it begins to be as you start to memorize the map and become more powerful.
Experiencing Samus's vision in first person is incredibly immersive and spellbinding. I love how alien the world feels at first and how comfortable it begins to be as you start to memorize the map and become more powerful.
Played On: Nintendo GameCube
A breathtaking adventure with stylistic attitude and an artstyle that oozes personality, Wind Waker is just pure fun. The darker undercurrent contrasted against the lighter cel-shaded exterior also makes for a captivating narrative that is one of the best stories in Zelda.
A breathtaking adventure with stylistic attitude and an artstyle that oozes personality, Wind Waker is just pure fun. The darker undercurrent contrasted against the lighter cel-shaded exterior also makes for a captivating narrative that is one of the best stories in Zelda.
Played On: PC
I absolutely adore Heather as a protagonist and how much more assertive and aggressive she is compared to James in SH2. Of course, that means the nightmare turns more aggressive as well, which creates some visually striking areas that are genuinely creepy.
I absolutely adore Heather as a protagonist and how much more assertive and aggressive she is compared to James in SH2. Of course, that means the nightmare turns more aggressive as well, which creates some visually striking areas that are genuinely creepy.
Played On: PC
In 2003, I got this for my step-dad at Christmas, which was a classic double-gift since I wanted to play myself. Watching him install and play through the first few segments on Christmas morning, I thought the reflections on the sith armor was the absolute peak in graphic fidelity. When I finally got to play myself, I found an epic roadtrip with fantastic companions across a rich planetary system, and a classic yet shocking narrative that enthralled me until the very end.
In 2003, I got this for my step-dad at Christmas, which was a classic double-gift since I wanted to play myself. Watching him install and play through the first few segments on Christmas morning, I thought the reflections on the sith armor was the absolute peak in graphic fidelity. When I finally got to play myself, I found an epic roadtrip with fantastic companions across a rich planetary system, and a classic yet shocking narrative that enthralled me until the very end.
Played On: PC
How do Norse mythology and hardboiled detective fit together so well? I enjoyed Max Payne 1 (although the dream sequences scare me on multiple levels), but its sequel really fleshed things out in a cinematic way in both gameplay and narrative presentation. Full of grit and fog and gunsmoke, it's easy to get drawn into and lost in Max Payne's New York.
How do Norse mythology and hardboiled detective fit together so well? I enjoyed Max Payne 1 (although the dream sequences scare me on multiple levels), but its sequel really fleshed things out in a cinematic way in both gameplay and narrative presentation. Full of grit and fog and gunsmoke, it's easy to get drawn into and lost in Max Payne's New York.
Played On: PS2
Fuck Eric Sparrow, the most punchable face in video game villainy. I was a fan of Tony Hawk from the first game, but adding in a story made a huge difference in replayability for me. I threw hours into this game trying to become the star skater I was born to be but couldn't in real life...because...well I have no talent.
Fuck Eric Sparrow, the most punchable face in video game villainy. I was a fan of Tony Hawk from the first game, but adding in a story made a huge difference in replayability for me. I threw hours into this game trying to become the star skater I was born to be but couldn't in real life...because...well I have no talent.
Played On: GBA4iOS
I had not played a Pokémon game in a very, very long time but when I got my first iPhone, I thought it would be a great idea to download a GameBoy emulator and try one out just as a fun experiment. Somehow, I landed on Emerald and was instantly hooked by the pixel art, the idea of your dad being a gym leader, and I think the world having all new Pokémon really helped me dive in and feel the excitement that I had experienced as a child. Blaziken 4 lyfe.
I had not played a Pokémon game in a very, very long time but when I got my first iPhone, I thought it would be a great idea to download a GameBoy emulator and try one out just as a fun experiment. Somehow, I landed on Emerald and was instantly hooked by the pixel art, the idea of your dad being a gym leader, and I think the world having all new Pokémon really helped me dive in and feel the excitement that I had experienced as a child. Blaziken 4 lyfe.
Played On: MyBoy! - Android
The Minish Cap is one of the most underrated games in the Zelda franchise. Toon Link looks great as always, the dungeons are fantastic with the shrinking mechanic being a creative way to add the second world, and it's fun every once in a while to have a villain not named Ganon.
The Minish Cap is one of the most underrated games in the Zelda franchise. Toon Link looks great as always, the dungeons are fantastic with the shrinking mechanic being a creative way to add the second world, and it's fun every once in a while to have a villain not named Ganon.
Played On: PC
I have a distinct memory of sitting in my junior year U.S. History class, huddled together with a few friends to read a PC Gamer magazine with an article about Half-Life 2 and how amazing the graphics were going to be. When it came out, I was blown away not just by the graphic fidelity, but by the world-building and puzzles integrated into the gameplay.
I have a distinct memory of sitting in my junior year U.S. History class, huddled together with a few friends to read a PC Gamer magazine with an article about Half-Life 2 and how amazing the graphics were going to be. When it came out, I was blown away not just by the graphic fidelity, but by the world-building and puzzles integrated into the gameplay.
Played On: PS2
Snake Eater is the height of Metal Gear Solid's unique brand of storytelling. All of the bosses are unique, with creative and out-of-the-box ways to achieve victory, and the finale, the Big Boss, is truly heartbreaking.
Snake Eater is the height of Metal Gear Solid's unique brand of storytelling. All of the bosses are unique, with creative and out-of-the-box ways to achieve victory, and the finale, the Big Boss, is truly heartbreaking.
Played On: PC
While KOTOR 1 told a wonderful classic Star Wars story, the Sith Lords was more interested in asking questions and exploring the nature of both the Jedi and the Force in a way that no other Star Wars media has, and the narrative and philosophy weaved throughout is thought-provoking and wholly unique.
While KOTOR 1 told a wonderful classic Star Wars story, the Sith Lords was more interested in asking questions and exploring the nature of both the Jedi and the Force in a way that no other Star Wars media has, and the narrative and philosophy weaved throughout is thought-provoking and wholly unique.
Played On: PS2 + PS4
I first played DMC3 as a rental from Blockbuster when I was in high school, only replaying and actually finishing it 16 years later. The combat system is as deep as any modern game, and the over-the-top action and humor make DMC3 a masterpiece. If anyone ever asks, "should I play this game?" all you have to do is show them the pizza cutscene and they'll know what to do.
I first played DMC3 as a rental from Blockbuster when I was in high school, only replaying and actually finishing it 16 years later. The combat system is as deep as any modern game, and the over-the-top action and humor make DMC3 a masterpiece. If anyone ever asks, "should I play this game?" all you have to do is show them the pizza cutscene and they'll know what to do.
Played On: PC
I was a senior in high school with no money, my PC could barely run it at probably like 20fps, but I saved up and bought Oblivion and became completely obsessed from the moment I stepped out of those sewers for the first time. Oblivion was so easy to get lost in, and it has the best side-quests out of any game in the Elder Scrolls series, like an upside down castle, human hunting grounds, and rescuing a mage trapped in his own dream.
I was a senior in high school with no money, my PC could barely run it at probably like 20fps, but I saved up and bought Oblivion and became completely obsessed from the moment I stepped out of those sewers for the first time. Oblivion was so easy to get lost in, and it has the best side-quests out of any game in the Elder Scrolls series, like an upside down castle, human hunting grounds, and rescuing a mage trapped in his own dream.
Played On: PS2
The last NCAA game I bought, my favorite past time was finding some random FCS school and then coaching them up to eventually win the FBS National Title. Of course, you had to swap out a real team to add the FCS one, so goodbye Notre Dame - every time.
The last NCAA game I bought, my favorite past time was finding some random FCS school and then coaching them up to eventually win the FBS National Title. Of course, you had to swap out a real team to add the FCS one, so goodbye Notre Dame - every time.
Played On: Nintendo Wii
While my wife was adding things like towels, bedding, dishes, and kitchen knives to our wedding registry, I added a Wii. She was not happy...until we got the Wii. We were absolutely broke, in a tiny apartment, and the Wii became our main source of entertainment - specifically Wii Sports. Epic baseball games were played with Darth Vader, George Costanza, and Dwight Schrute playing alongside us, and we even came up with rules to make things more even (yes, I'm still salty she banned my home-run-every-time-wrist-flick technique). Tennis matches were a tense rivalry as well, as we learned how to put spin on the ball and trick each other. Some of the most fun I had in our first year of marriage was playing on that Wii.
While my wife was adding things like towels, bedding, dishes, and kitchen knives to our wedding registry, I added a Wii. She was not happy...until we got the Wii. We were absolutely broke, in a tiny apartment, and the Wii became our main source of entertainment - specifically Wii Sports. Epic baseball games were played with Darth Vader, George Costanza, and Dwight Schrute playing alongside us, and we even came up with rules to make things more even (yes, I'm still salty she banned my home-run-every-time-wrist-flick technique). Tennis matches were a tense rivalry as well, as we learned how to put spin on the ball and trick each other. Some of the most fun I had in our first year of marriage was playing on that Wii.
Played On: Dolphin
9 is the absolute perfection of the classic Mega Man formula. The soundtrack is catchy, all of the boss abilities are powerful and fun, platforming is challenging, and the length of the game is perfect. There are also several paths through the game because the boss weapons are so good outside of just using them on bosses - they can change the way you interact with mini-bosses and platforming.
9 is the absolute perfection of the classic Mega Man formula. The soundtrack is catchy, all of the boss abilities are powerful and fun, platforming is challenging, and the length of the game is perfect. There are also several paths through the game because the boss weapons are so good outside of just using them on bosses - they can change the way you interact with mini-bosses and platforming.
Played On: PC
It's 2008 and I'm wildly depressed. I feel isolated from my friends and roommates, and I hate my job. However, I just stepped into Megaton for the first time and I can't think about all that right now - I need to find my dad and figure out how to steal this guy's cowboy hat. The Capital Wasteland in all its desolate glory gave me something to look forward to, and I got lost in exploring it and helping its citizens. Just one of those games that hit at the right exact time.
It's 2008 and I'm wildly depressed. I feel isolated from my friends and roommates, and I hate my job. However, I just stepped into Megaton for the first time and I can't think about all that right now - I need to find my dad and figure out how to steal this guy's cowboy hat. The Capital Wasteland in all its desolate glory gave me something to look forward to, and I got lost in exploring it and helping its citizens. Just one of those games that hit at the right exact time.
Played On: PS3
UMBASA, the vibes! The atmosphere! The solitude! The haze! Boletaria has it all! The original has an emotional feeling that is so unique compared to the rest of the games that is amplified by its unconventional soundtrack. I also absolutely love the level structure of Demon's Souls - being able to tackle the worlds in any order gives a lot of options for builds and replay, and adds variety for challenging yourself.
UMBASA, the vibes! The atmosphere! The solitude! The haze! Boletaria has it all! The original has an emotional feeling that is so unique compared to the rest of the games that is amplified by its unconventional soundtrack. I also absolutely love the level structure of Demon's Souls - being able to tackle the worlds in any order gives a lot of options for builds and replay, and adds variety for challenging yourself.
Played On: Dolphin
I kind of view Mega Man 10 as a counterpart to 9, like two sides of the same coin. 10 has some amazing robot masters as well (Sheep Man is awesome and there's a baseball level!), but I think the platforming challenges in 10 are some of the best the series has to offer.
I kind of view Mega Man 10 as a counterpart to 9, like two sides of the same coin. 10 has some amazing robot masters as well (Sheep Man is awesome and there's a baseball level!), but I think the platforming challenges in 10 are some of the best the series has to offer.
Played On: PC
I was pretty into New Vegas from the get-go, but the moment that hooked me was rounding the corner and seeing the giant Novac dinosaur for the first time. A single tear rolled down my cheek. The DLC also has some of my favorite storytelling in Fallout - not the Courier 6 plot, but rather Father Elijah's story as you piece it together backwards from Dead Money through Old World Blues and finally bring it back home to the Brotherhood in the Mojave.
I was pretty into New Vegas from the get-go, but the moment that hooked me was rounding the corner and seeing the giant Novac dinosaur for the first time. A single tear rolled down my cheek. The DLC also has some of my favorite storytelling in Fallout - not the Courier 6 plot, but rather Father Elijah's story as you piece it together backwards from Dead Money through Old World Blues and finally bring it back home to the Brotherhood in the Mojave.
Played On: PC
I love Portal 1, but the sequel takes all of the platforming portal puzzles and elevates them to a new level, while adding a fun and surprisingly touching story through it all. The game is capped off by one of the best boss fights in gaming history.
I love Portal 1, but the sequel takes all of the platforming portal puzzles and elevates them to a new level, while adding a fun and surprisingly touching story through it all. The game is capped off by one of the best boss fights in gaming history.
Played On: Nintendo Switch
Well, COVID had hit and I was unemployed, going through the monotony of applying for what felt like 50 jobs a day just hoping that through natural attrition one would hit - doing the same thing day after day, going hollow, just like my Dark Souls 1 PC, except he could do something about it. My reward for sending out applications every day was my journey from the Asylum to the city of the gods to the Kiln to relink the fire, and as soon as I finished the first time, I started it all over again. Please just hit me with that character creation menu theme and let me fade away.
Well, COVID had hit and I was unemployed, going through the monotony of applying for what felt like 50 jobs a day just hoping that through natural attrition one would hit - doing the same thing day after day, going hollow, just like my Dark Souls 1 PC, except he could do something about it. My reward for sending out applications every day was my journey from the Asylum to the city of the gods to the Kiln to relink the fire, and as soon as I finished the first time, I started it all over again. Please just hit me with that character creation menu theme and let me fade away.
Played On: PC
Playing Arkham City was like living in the Batman the Animated Series that I grew up watching. The boss fights are also great spectacles with Mr. Freeze probably being the best one. Just a great sense of Wonder and actually feeling like being in a comic book.
Playing Arkham City was like living in the Batman the Animated Series that I grew up watching. The boss fights are also great spectacles with Mr. Freeze probably being the best one. Just a great sense of Wonder and actually feeling like being in a comic book.
Played On: PC
When Skyrim came out, I remember running back and forth between my room and my roommate's, excitedly exchanging stories and secrets we had found. Probably one of the best gaming experiences of my life, I ended up pouring more and more into the game with the true magic of Elder Scrolls V - mods.
When Skyrim came out, I remember running back and forth between my room and my roommate's, excitedly exchanging stories and secrets we had found. Probably one of the best gaming experiences of my life, I ended up pouring more and more into the game with the true magic of Elder Scrolls V - mods.
Played On: PC
New Order really reminded me less of the old Wolfenstein games and more of a mash-up with Half-Life 2, which was interesting and totally worked in a strange way. The story is a blast, but the gunplay, missions, and world-design are the stars of New Order.
New Order really reminded me less of the old Wolfenstein games and more of a mash-up with Half-Life 2, which was interesting and totally worked in a strange way. The story is a blast, but the gunplay, missions, and world-design are the stars of New Order.
Played On: PS4
The Spencer Mansion wonderfully recreates the haunted house we all have living in our brands - that one twisting, turning house that comes to your mind when you think of the genre. The game is also delightfully well paced between horror, exploration, and b-movie silliness, providing satisfyingly gameplay that cuts the tension with playful relief. This game is fun.
The Spencer Mansion wonderfully recreates the haunted house we all have living in our brands - that one twisting, turning house that comes to your mind when you think of the genre. The game is also delightfully well paced between horror, exploration, and b-movie silliness, providing satisfyingly gameplay that cuts the tension with playful relief. This game is fun.
Played On: PS4, as if there was a choice.
A lot of media tries to capture Lovecraft's sense of cosmic horror and forbidden knowledge, though Bloodborne is one of the few that manage to embody the genre completely. The increased speed of combat as well as the addition of the rally mechanic make combat with the trick weapons satisfying to master. I also actually love the chalice dungeons, especially for the co-op opportunities they provide for higher level builds - you truly feel like you're two or three hunters banding together for survival in some foreign labyrinth.
A lot of media tries to capture Lovecraft's sense of cosmic horror and forbidden knowledge, though Bloodborne is one of the few that manage to embody the genre completely. The increased speed of combat as well as the addition of the rally mechanic make combat with the trick weapons satisfying to master. I also actually love the chalice dungeons, especially for the co-op opportunities they provide for higher level builds - you truly feel like you're two or three hunters banding together for survival in some foreign labyrinth.
Played On: PC
Some of my favorite writing in a video game ever is in Pillars of Eternity, as it not only poses philosophical questions, but it forces the player to reconcile them with their experience. The worldbuilding is rich and grounded in cultural myth and history, making it feel like you're really taking part in something larger than your character.
Some of my favorite writing in a video game ever is in Pillars of Eternity, as it not only poses philosophical questions, but it forces the player to reconcile them with their experience. The worldbuilding is rich and grounded in cultural myth and history, making it feel like you're really taking part in something larger than your character.
Played On: PC
Drangleic's ethereal atmosphere provides a mysterious backdrop for exploring sunken cities, kingdoms of lava, and woods shrouded in fog. The lore and storytelling is also fantastic with some of my favorite ideas in the Souls series - the Ivory Prince, entering memories, and a mad scientist's lair.
Drangleic's ethereal atmosphere provides a mysterious backdrop for exploring sunken cities, kingdoms of lava, and woods shrouded in fog. The lore and storytelling is also fantastic with some of my favorite ideas in the Souls series - the Ivory Prince, entering memories, and a mad scientist's lair.
Played On: PC
Don't be fooled by the tiny, minimalist pixels on the screen, as this is actually one of the most ambitious Metroidvanias I've ever played. It is chocked full of secrets, power-ups, and sequence-breaks, all powered by eldritch horror that doesn't become apparent until the post-game.
Don't be fooled by the tiny, minimalist pixels on the screen, as this is actually one of the most ambitious Metroidvanias I've ever played. It is chocked full of secrets, power-ups, and sequence-breaks, all powered by eldritch horror that doesn't become apparent until the post-game.
Played On: Nintendo Switch
I've only played as a Pacifist and I refuse to play this any other way. It's just perfectly wholesome, cozy, and heartwarming that way.
I've only played as a Pacifist and I refuse to play this any other way. It's just perfectly wholesome, cozy, and heartwarming that way.
Played On: PS4
Not only does Dark Souls 3 have my favorite bosses in the series, but it also has the best NPC narratives and questlines between Gael, Patches, Horace and Anri, Siegward, Irina, Greirat, and the others. Of course, they are all heartbreaking in that special Souls NPC way, but how they weave throughout the story organically is such a huge difference compared to the hoops needed to jump through to experience stories in both DS1 and DS2 - they feel like they belong in this world and that they are part of it with you. I've played this game so much that a lot of it has become second nature to me, but I think what stands out the most are the sprawling, circular levels like Cathedral or the Undead Settlement, alongside bosses with epic stories and lore that make them feel like equals when you fight rather than enemies.
Not only does Dark Souls 3 have my favorite bosses in the series, but it also has the best NPC narratives and questlines between Gael, Patches, Horace and Anri, Siegward, Irina, Greirat, and the others. Of course, they are all heartbreaking in that special Souls NPC way, but how they weave throughout the story organically is such a huge difference compared to the hoops needed to jump through to experience stories in both DS1 and DS2 - they feel like they belong in this world and that they are part of it with you. I've played this game so much that a lot of it has become second nature to me, but I think what stands out the most are the sprawling, circular levels like Cathedral or the Undead Settlement, alongside bosses with epic stories and lore that make them feel like equals when you fight rather than enemies.
Played On: MyBoy!
Smooth controls and movement like Zero Mission and Fusion but looks and plays better with twice as many secrets. Nintendo is just jealous they couldn't make a GBA game this good.
Smooth controls and movement like Zero Mission and Fusion but looks and plays better with twice as many secrets. Nintendo is just jealous they couldn't make a GBA game this good.
Played On: PC
When I jumped into Titanfall 2, I was just expecting it to be a standard FPS campaign; I was not prepared to be emotionally attached to my robot in the way that I was. I also wasn't expecting some of the best level-design I've ever experienced in an FPS with some truly creative platforming sections.
When I jumped into Titanfall 2, I was just expecting it to be a standard FPS campaign; I was not prepared to be emotionally attached to my robot in the way that I was. I also wasn't expecting some of the best level-design I've ever experienced in an FPS with some truly creative platforming sections.
Played On: PS4
Biohazard was my first Resident Evil game that propelled me to play the entire series, and the first half of the game scared the hell out of me with its perfectly creepy and twisted level-design, while the second half was a revenge tour. Also the Baker Ranch reminds me of my favorite TV show of all time, True Detective, specifically the final episode.
Biohazard was my first Resident Evil game that propelled me to play the entire series, and the first half of the game scared the hell out of me with its perfectly creepy and twisted level-design, while the second half was a revenge tour. Also the Baker Ranch reminds me of my favorite TV show of all time, True Detective, specifically the final episode.
Played On: PS4
Fast-paced arcade combat with combos for days makes the gameplay incredibly fun. However, the real meat is in the story, characters, and world which are steeped in nihilism and ontology, yet still manage to defy all odds by remaining hopeful. The soundtrack is also killer, and I will never forget entering Pascal's village for the first time.
Fast-paced arcade combat with combos for days makes the gameplay incredibly fun. However, the real meat is in the story, characters, and world which are steeped in nihilism and ontology, yet still manage to defy all odds by remaining hopeful. The soundtrack is also killer, and I will never forget entering Pascal's village for the first time.
Played On: Nintendo Switch
Hollow Knight is the game that changed my mindset about "hard games," and pulled me in with its atmospheric art and solemn soundtrack. Catch me listening to the City of Tears while rain falls in the background. All of the upgrades are worthwhile and are satisfying to use, and the game has just enough difficulty between the bossfights and platforming sections to provide a fun challenge. Steel Soul 100% is one of my favorite things I've ever done.
Hollow Knight is the game that changed my mindset about "hard games," and pulled me in with its atmospheric art and solemn soundtrack. Catch me listening to the City of Tears while rain falls in the background. All of the upgrades are worthwhile and are satisfying to use, and the game has just enough difficulty between the bossfights and platforming sections to provide a fun challenge. Steel Soul 100% is one of my favorite things I've ever done.
Played On: Nintendo Switch
This is the game I bought my Switch for, one of the best decisions I've ever made not only because Breath of the Wild is an amazing adventure, but because it started my wife's journey into gaming. Watching her joyfully explore Hyrule and eventually make her way to Ganon was a wonderful experience, almost on par with playing the game myself.
This is the game I bought my Switch for, one of the best decisions I've ever made not only because Breath of the Wild is an amazing adventure, but because it started my wife's journey into gaming. Watching her joyfully explore Hyrule and eventually make her way to Ganon was a wonderful experience, almost on par with playing the game myself.
Played On: PC
The hand-drawn art is phenomenal and gives the game such a unique atmosphere that complements the simple gameplay. The ability to quickswap back and forth between the original 1989 graphics is a fun feature too and just adds to the classic feel of the remake.
The hand-drawn art is phenomenal and gives the game such a unique atmosphere that complements the simple gameplay. The ability to quickswap back and forth between the original 1989 graphics is a fun feature too and just adds to the classic feel of the remake.
2 Comments
Banger list! Loved the little descriptions for each game
FallenGrace
26 days ago