I will start off by saying that I'm very impressed by what's here, considering that it's a the work of a single core developer, or at least started that way before the "Infinite" release.

Graphically it's certainly a fun title. If you look closely it's easy to spot the rough edges, especially the animations, but the environments and models look cool and the lighting mixed with all of the water everywhere gives the eye plenty of natural enough looking detail to gush over. Basically, it's very shiny, with at least enough substance that you don't care to poke any deeper.

Gameplay is the hit and miss part for me. Some tools and elements feel nice, fluid, impactful. Most are rather easy to stress out. Like I've mentioned with Sekiro, I have a way of playing action games that makes certain character-controllers very... grumpy. If I kept things tame it all worked pretty well and mowing down the grunts and special enemies was a fairly satisfying process.

When I tried to sprint-cancel-power-slash spam while jumping and dodging, then it started get hissy with me and eating my inputs because the input state-machine wasn't quite ready for me, even though the visual feedback said otherwise. The movement also had a tendency to react poorly to mid-air collisions and landing on props, and the relationship between dodging mid-air and inertia was sometimes a bit iffy.

I'm a bit picky on the movement as well, because this was a game with rather short times-to-kill and rather simple enemy engagements, so a lot of my focus was on getting from enemy to enemy as fluidly as I could.

The arsenal you're given is perhaps a bit overkill. Namely, the sword can send out cutting waves with high damage and fairly high range, and with a couple other additional moves you can tack on, the guns are just kind of there most of the time. They feel fine and they're not useless, but I tended to only use them when either I just needed to take a few potshots while waiting for the plentiful exo-energy to regen a bit, or on the rare occasion that an enemy was just too far away.

This would be more of a negative, but the sword is admittedly quite fun to use and this isn't a competitive shooter, so there being superfluous options doesn't matter until the combat is actually boring, in my opinion.

What I will say is that I'm not big on how they implemented the controls for the sword combos. They're probably just fine for most, but I found a few inputs a little counter-productive to the types of movement you'd want to pair them with. i.e. Holding 'E' performs a forward dash attack, while the charge attack (which is ranged) is started by sprinting forward and holding 'E.' So there was a lot of straffing backwards only to dash right back into whatever hazard I was trying to avoid.

Overall, though, I would say the gameplay was fun. Flawed, but in forgivable ways.

I have no idea what was going on with the story, so nothing much to say there. But that's set dressing in a game like this. It sets the mood and has no intention of provoking some kind of deep thought beyond, "Woah, that's kinda wild looking. Guess I'm going here now."

The game is rather short as well. Could be a good thing, though. It executed on all of the interesting ideas it had then left when they had nothing more to give. And if you enjoy the combat more than me, I imagine speed running or upping the difficulty gives a litttle extra playtime. There are no long cinematics to get in the way of that.

So if the previews look neat to you, and you can get it for a price you wouldn't worry about, then I can recommend it. If you're looking for only the highest grade shooters, then leave it for now, but if you want a short burst of action game junk food, this will do it.

This game is a short and sweet 2 hour action thrill ride that I couldn’t get enough of. The gunplay is lightning fast with tons of different ways to attack situations: 4 guns with 2 firing modes each, a sword, deflecting and parrying, and a slew of telekinesis powers. Having so many options keeps the game feel fresh and fun through the whole roller coaster of a campaign. Some very cool set pieces were appreciated too, though the stealth section left a lot to be desired. The story was…. there? Definitely was an afterthought but the game was so fun to play I didn’t care.

As a devoted Potterhead who has grown up with the books, movies, and licensed games, I was over the moon when I heard about the upcoming release of Hogwarts Legacy. Having followed the franchise since my elementary school days, it has had an immeasurable impact on my life. So, when I first heard about the game, I had high expectations but was also very skeptical, as I didn't think it would live up to my expectations for a game of this scope and ambition.

However, I was proven dead wrong. From the moment I stepped into the game, I felt my breath slip away and I could not contain my excitement. I had to frequently stop the game and tell people how incredible it was to have something like this. The attention to detail in every aspect of the game, from the intricate Hogwarts castle to the stunning visuals of the Forbidden Forest, is simply astounding. It's evident that the developers have poured their hearts and souls into this project.

One of the most impressive things about the game was the level of detail from both the books and the movies. Instead of featuring elements that are only from one or the other, everything in the game is a perfect creative fusion that astounds me to my core. Many elements from both mediums have combined to create the most visually appealing Hogwarts that has ever been created.

The gameplay is challenging yet rewarding, with a variety of spells and abilities to master. The side quests and exploration options make the world of Hogwarts feel even more expansive and alive, and I found myself constantly getting lost in the game for hours on end, doing random stuff or even just decorating my room. Flying on your broom is everything I imagined it would be, especially when you upgrade it and start to gain faster boosts. The game is so easy to roleplay in and really immerse yourself into that universe.

But what truly struck me about Hogwarts Legacy was how it made me feel. As a long-time fan of the Harry Potter series, I was worried that the game wouldn't live up to my expectations. I was prepared to be disappointed, but instead, I found myself completely swept away by the story and the world. The game felt like I was coming home to a time long passed from my childhood. It reminded me of all the reasons why I fell in love with Harry Potter in the first place as a kid, and it reignited that burning passion I had for the wizarding world for decades now. It is rare for a game to tap into this feeling for me. The only reason why I took so long to beat such an addicting game was to pace myself. I wanted to feel like I was binge-watching the movies or watching a new Potter TV show, so I forced myself to play long weekly sessions and savor the experience.

In conclusion, Hogwarts Legacy is a phenomenal work of creativity. It's not often that you get to play a game that captures your childhood fantasy and gives you everything you wanted. If you're a Potterhead, or even just a fan of great storytelling, gorgeous open worlds, and immersive gameplay, I cannot recommend Hogwarts Legacy enough.

Doom Eternal is a true masterpiece that sets a new standard for FPS games. This game has everything that a gamer could ask for, from its deep and complex combat system to its enthralling and confidence-boosting soundtrack, and its stunningly artistic world design. It is a game that not only outclasses any other single FPS game ever created but also manages to surpass its predecessor in every possible way.

One of the standout features of Doom Eternal is its fast-paced combat system that keeps the players engaged and on their toes. The game definitely encourages you to be always on the move with the addition of dashing. This new mechanic is a total game-changer that makes the combat even more intense and dynamic. Once
I started getting the hang out the two dashes, I was constantly mobile in the air while shooting down enemies from above, and that was just total joy. The game rewards players who take advantage of the mechanics by providing them with interesting combos and escape methods, making the gameplay experience even more satisfying.

The music in Doom Eternal is nothing short of phenomenal, and it perfectly complements the high-octane combat. The tracks are so good that they inspire confidence and determination in the player, making them feel like they can take on any enemy that comes their way. "The Only Thing They Fear Is You" is one of the most insane videogame tracks ever created and is sure to get your blood pumping. Other notable tracks, such as "Meathook" and "Cultist Base", add to the adrenaline-filled intensity of some of the game's toughest fights.

The combat system in Doom Eternal is a true work of art, with so many different enemy types that every encounter feels fresh and exciting. The game designers have done an excellent job of creating unique fight scenarios that keep the players engaged throughout the game. The closed spaces in the game easily surround the player with a wide variety of enemies, making the gameplay experience even more challenging and intense.

Playing Doom Eternal is an experience that is truly unmatched. It is a game that will make you laugh out loud in disbelief as you pull off combat finishers and unintentional combos that are both satisfying and entertaining. I know that my journey with this game is far from over with the release of Ancient Gods, and I know that I can expect even more mind-blowing experiences from this masterpiece.

If you are remotely interested in a non-casual videogame experience, then you are missing out on one of the best gaming experiences of all time by not playing Doom Eternal. Its deep and complex combat, enthralling soundtrack, and stunning world design make it a must-play for all FPS fans. It is a game that will leave you breathless and eager for more, and it will undoubtedly set a new standard for FPS games for years to come.

Marvel's Spider-Man stands as a remarkable achievement even five years after its release, capturing the essence of Spider-Man as a character and delivering a compelling narrative centered around the destructive nature of revenge. With its exhilarating and powerful web-slinging mechanics, captivating narrative, and top-tier action combat, this exceptional and immersive superhero game surpasses expectations, and stands firm in being the standard for the superhero genre.

Firstly I need to talk about arguably the most important aspect that continues to impress today: the web swinging. Despite the passage of time, the thrill of swinging through the city never wanes. I found myself continuously pushing the boundaries of my web-slinging abilities, executing daring dives from towering buildings and seamlessly transitioning between parkour-like wall runs and swift web maneuvers. The numerous outposts scattered throughout New York, where I was able to engage in intense combat against hordes of enemies, also remains as satisfying as ever. Additionally, the inclusion of activities like collecting backpacks and capturing snapshots of landmarks during swinging sessions adds enjoyable pit stops along the way. Even the spontaneous crimes that arise, allowing me to swiftly intervene and then move on, reinforce the feeling of being the friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. The game's focus on being a local hero, protecting one's own city, rather than jetting off to far-flung locations for various missions, further solidifies this sense of grounded heroism. In this regard, it evokes a similar feeling to that of Arkham Knight, where the game centers around defending the streets of Gotham City.

It also goes without saying that Marvel's Spider-Man is a visual and auditory delight all these years later. The attention to detail in the character models, animations, and environmental design is remarkable. The city of New York is a vibrant and living backdrop, complemented by stunning lighting and weather effects that further enhance the immersion. The musical score, composed by the talented John Paesano, perfectly captures the essence of Spider-Man, evoking a sense of adventure, heroism, and emotional resonance, especially when it comes to the main theme.

Another standout feature of Marvel's Spider-Man, however, lies in its captivating storytelling. I believe it surpasses most of the movies in terms of crafting an engaging narrative that feels fresh and innovative. Witnessing the transformation of Otto Octavius into the legendary Doc Ock throughout the course of the game is heartbreaking and deep. Uncovering the tragic backstory of Martin Li intertwining with his alter ego, Mr. Negative, is just something you can't help but feel empathy towards. These two characters showcase the complex nature and destructive power of their revenge-driven motivation.

Another shoutout goes to the game's exceptional portrayal of beloved characters like Peter Parker, MJ, and Miles Morales. The writing and voice acting bring these characters to life, showcasing their distinct personalities, strengths, and vulnerabilities. The relationships between the characters are explored with care and nuance, adding emotional depth to the narrative. The inclusion of Miles Morales as a central figure is a welcome addition, as his unique abilities and perspective provide a fresh dynamic to the gameplay and story. Despite some minor shortcomings in the missions involving MJ and Miles, they do not detract significantly from the overall experience, and I found myself fully invested in the journey and development of these iconic characters.

When it comes to the actual combat, I couldn't get enough of the satisfying combos. It is absolutely peak action. The fluidity and responsiveness of the controls make it a joy to execute sequences like a devastating punch followed by a graceful dodge, an uppercut from behind, a quick two-hit combo, a swing kick, and finally, a web toss to dispatch another enemy. This level of versatility in Spider-Man's attacks and gadgets truly rivals the combat mechanics of the Arkhamverse, which undoubtedly served as a significant inspiration for this creative decision. In fact, I found myself enjoying the combat in this game even more than in Miles Morales' standalone title, especially once the upgrades for Spider-Man's gadgets are unlocked, resulting in truly exhilarating battles. Another thing to give props to is the stealth. Despite my general disinterest in stealth mechanics in games, this title manages to infuse enjoyable elements of stealth, allowing me to creatively incapacitate enemies with webbing or perform powerful kicks to the head for swift takedowns. Experimenting with gadgets like impact webs and trip mines adds another layer of strategy, and it allowed me to maintain distance while having fun effectively neutralizing adversaries.

Marvel's Spider-Man represents the quintessential superhero game, a remarkable and effective ending of the hit-or-miss Spider-Man titles of the past that were often tied to movie releases. Yuri Lowenthal's portrayal of Spider-Man is, in my opinion, the definitive interpretation of the character to date, imbuing him with both terrifying strength and combat reflexes that rival those of Batman in the Arkhamverse. I even find myself reading the actual comics with his voice in my mind, because it's just so perfectly fitting. The exceptional musical score, top-tier voice acting, and seamless controls further enhance the overall experience. Without a doubt, this game has secured its position as my favorite superhero title and one of my all-time favorite games, leaving me eagerly anticipating the release of its sequel.

As a big fan of the original Oxenfree, I was thrilled to dive into the much-anticipated sequel, Oxenfree II: Lost Signals. My expectations were high, and while the game certainly had its moments, it ended up being a mixed bag for me.

One of the aspects that stood out to me was the improved character development. The protagonists, Riley and Jacob, had a chemistry that far exceeded the connections in the first game. Their interactions felt genuine, and I found myself emotionally invested in their journey, which was a refreshing change from my experiences with Alex and her friends in the previous installment. Jacob is a very compelling character and I think he and Riley bounce off of each other so well, and I always appreciated his endless chatter and attempts to lighten the mood.

The ambiance of Lost Signals had its ups and downs. On one hand, it managed to create an atmosphere where I felt genuinely alone, battling evil forces alongside Jacob. However, it lacked the intense creepiness that had set the tone for the original Oxenfree. The horror elements felt more scattered and absent, and it was something I took notice on. This slight departure from the abundance of the first game's horror elements left me somewhat yearning for the spine-chilling experiences of the past. The pacing in Lost Signals admittedly was spot on, though. The game didn't drag on, and the final confrontation felt appropriately climactic. The length of the game was just right, making it a worthy purchase for the price.

Despite the positive aspects, the story took an unfortunate turn for me around 3 AM. There was a moment of excitement with a reveal for the main villain, but when the true antagonist was revealed, I couldn't help but feel disappointed at this fakeout that could have been something truly special. The plot lacked the creativity and impact that I had hoped for, and it did not match the intrigue of its predecessor. The conclusion felt lackluster in comparison, and I couldn't help but compare the two, finding the original game's ending far more resonant with me.

Another of my major gripes with Lost Signals was its flawed gameplay and technical issues. Despite my efforts to be nice and intimate with Jacob throughout the entire 7-hour playthrough, the game claimed that I had alienated him due to a single dialogue option. This inconsistency shattered the illusion of my choices truly mattering, and it felt inauthentic for a game centered around human connections. Moreover, the game's technical performance on the PS5 was less than satisfactory. Frequent crashes and framerate drops disrupted my immersion, and the loading screens were far from instant, which seemed baffling given the game's modest map size and graphics for this generation. There really is no excuse for this game to perform as it does.

Lost Signals took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. While the improved character development and pacing were commendable, the lackluster story and atmosphere fell short of my expectations. The disappointing ending, flawed gameplay mechanics, and technical issues left me feeling that the game had not lived up to its full potential. Nevertheless, I don't regret playing it, as it still offered some enjoyable moments, but it simply didn't deliver the same magic as its predecessor. I can only hope that if there's another installment in the series (which I seriously doubt there will be) it will recapture the essence that made the original Oxenfree so unforgettable.

Cyberpunk 2077 has always held a special place in my heart. When I first experienced it in September 2022, over a year ago, the game transformed my perception of narratives, lore, and world-building in the realm of video games. The recently released expansion, Phantom Liberty, continues this tradition by delivering an unforgettable 20-hour narrative that left me profoundly moved and prompted a deep introspection of my own moral compass.

The expansion also introduces two new amazing characters. Solomon Reed, a new character brought to life by the masterful Idris Elba, is a formidable FIA agent wrestling with internal demons. Idris Elba's portrayal is nothing short of extraordinary, and as a huge fan of his past works, I thought his performance in this role stood out as one of his most compelling acting achievements. Songbird, on the other hand, is a character of profound complexity and an enigmatic backstory. Minji Chang's portrayal breathes life into Songbird's entrancing aura and presence, and the level of detail in her chromed up character design is truly awe-inspiring. Every encounter with Songbird is a testament to the exceptional hard work invested in crafting her character.

While the majority of Phantom Liberty takes place outside the familiar confines of Night City, Dogtown, a mini-city in its own right, holds its own unique allure. Despite its relatively compact size, Dogtown pulsates with life and tension, marked by frequent confrontations between rival gangs and the formidable Barghest. Upon close inspection, the remnants of what was meant to be a resplendent Pacifica are now reduced to rubble and unfinished architecture. Dogtown's aura is distinctly unforgiving and rotten, to the extent that even the NCPD and Trauma Team hesitate to venture within its boundaries.

Gameplay enhancements in Phantom Liberty are nothing short of exceptional. The skill trees have been meticulously revamped to eliminate redundant abilities that merely bolstered statistics, making room for meaningful additions. Melee combat, now refined to perfection, has become my preferred style of engagement. The ability to hurl adversaries with guerilla hands or execute brutal decapitations with a katana exemplifies the level of refinement. Even throwing knives have been reinvented, rewarding players with an immediate recovery upon a headshot kill, leading to thrilling moments of unstoppable precision. These gameplay changes not only invigorate the expansion but also breathe new life into the base game for those contemplating a replay.

Without venturing into spoiler territory, Phantom Liberty introduces a critical narrative juncture where the plot diverges into two distinct routes, each culminating in two separate endings. After experiencing these four conclusions, players are treated to a fifth ending that pertains to the base game itself. The enigmatic quality of each ending left me deeply conflicted, unable to definitively pinpoint the "best" outcome. This expansion perpetuates the haunting thematic undercurrents of the main game, where happiness remains elusive, and every character harbors a fractured and broken facet of their being by the story's conclusion.

Phantom Liberty is a testament to the true narrative essence of the Cyberpunk universe, and it leaves me eager to explore further depths in the forthcoming Project Orion. To this day, Cyberpunk's universe stands as my favorite place to be.

Like a Dragon Gaiden pays a heartfelt homage to Kazuma Kiryu, cementing the Dragon of Dojima's legendary status as one of the greatest videogame characters of all time. As a dedicated Yakuza enthusiast, diving into Gaiden felt like a pilgrimage to the core foundations of the series, creating an ultimate celebration of Yakuza's storied history while injecting a refreshing narrative full of crazy twists.

Set against the backdrop of Yakuza: Like a Dragon, Gaiden asserts itself as a standalone entry, crafting one of the most unique tie-in gaming experiences I've encountered. The narrative weaves a deep and personal tale, skillfully drawing on elements from previous games to resonate with long-time fans while introducing new layers to the lore.

The combat system in Gaiden, utilizing the robust Dragon Engine, showcases a branching from the style seen in the Judgment series. The introduction of the addicting Agent style, reminiscent of the agile Crane style used by Takayuki Yagami, adds a layer of excitement to large group encounters. The game's emphasis on facing larger mobs of enemies highlights the developers' commitment to providing a thrilling and dynamic combat experience, encouraging players to experiment with an arsenal of gadgets and abilities.

One of the standout features of the Yakuza series has consistently been its electrifying and intense soundtrack, and Gaiden lives up to this tradition. The blend of EDM, heavy rock, and high-energy pop creates a sonic landscape that is quintessentially the soul of Ryu Ga Gotoku. Standout tracks like Hellish Octagon, Bring It On, Fleeting Dream, Like A Butterfly, and Deadly Struggle contribute to an OST that is not only memorable but also a strong contender for my personal soundtrack of the year for 2023.

Avoiding a deep dive into the story to preserve the impact for fellow Kiryu enthusiasts, I can't help but emphasize the emotional connection I felt throughout the narrative. Kiryu, a character I've cherished since my teenage years, delivers a poignant experience that culminated in a 2am emotional rollercoaster, leaving me in tears. As I eagerly await the release of Like a Dragon 8, Gaiden stands as a testament to the developers' dedication to creating a game tailored for Kiryu fans worldwide. It undeniably deserves to be hailed as the peak of the Yakuza series, offering an immersive and emotional journey that resonates long after the credits roll.

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you could change the past with a text? What if you discovered this power could lead to the greatest conspiracy in the world? What if you fell in love with someone who could have been destined to not exist in your timeline?

These are questions that Steins;Gate explores in its thrilling emotional roller-coaster of a story, which I can proudly say is the deepest and most intimate narrative I've seen in gaming.

The characters in Steins;Gate are one of its strongest qualities. They are all well-developed, realistic, and likable characters, each with their own personality, idiosyncrasies, and past. They become a close-knit group of friends who support each other through thick and thin, making the plot more fascinating and relatable. Okabe, the primary character, is a multifaceted and dynamic character who grows and develops throughout the story. He begins as an eccentric and egotistical individual who enjoys pretending to be a mad scientist and frequently upsets his pals with his delusions and jokes. As the story unfolds, however, he grows more serious and mature as he confronts the hard reality and repercussions of his actions. He also demonstrates great courage, commitment, and compassion by risking all to protect those he cares about.

One of the people he loves is Kurisu Makise, the main heroine of the story. In my opinion, she is one of the best female characters ever written. She is a clever and skilled scientist, as well as a kind, humorous, and charming person. She embraces the tsundere stereotype, but does it in such a lovable way that it's difficult not to admire her for it, especially when Okabe makes her aware of her cliches. She and Okabe have a lot of energy and banter, and their relationship is one of the most realistic and endearing I've ever witnessed. It's incredibly heartwarming and moving to see how she develops to care for Okabe during the game, and how she's always there for him. It's very cute how they peck each other's lips over and over like little lovebirds during their kiss moment. And the staircase scene... oh, that was such a wonderful and serene moment that I enjoy rewatching it. The slow burn romance is so brilliantly done that I found myself crying tears of joy for them at the conclusion.

I'd want to use this chance to boast about another character. Mayuri is the heart and spirit of Steins;Gate. Her "tutturu" greeting is adorable, and it always makes me grin when she sings it. I like how she always has an empty head, always thinking about what to eat or what cosplays to make for others. Then there's her very sensitive and brilliant side, revealing a hidden genius in her brain that works so well with her supportive nature. Throughout the game, I adored and grew in love with her character. Then there was Chapter 6. It was the most shocking thing I'd ever seen in a game, and I didn't care if I dropped my controller on the hard-wood floor. I was dumbfounded and felt lifeless and empty on the inside. It came out of nowhere and established the tone for the rest of the game, and I was still processing this awful fate at moments later on.

And this is the unavoidable conversation starter regarding Steins;Gate and its exquisite anguish. The numerous deaths that occur to her are a fantastic example of how manipulating the universe and time itself has absolutely no mercy, and how critical it is to keep the chronology moving steadily. The most heartbreaking aspect of this story is that it ultimately boils down to a choice between Mayuri and Kurisu, with the worldline implying that Okabe is doomed to lose a lady he adores. It's so awful, and when I recognized it, it felt like the game's writer stabbed me in the gut.

Of course, I can't leave out the other characters, who are all unique and vital to the plot. Daru, Okabe's best buddy and fellow hacka, is a perverse and amusing otaku who gives much comic relief and technical assistance. Moeka is a mysterious and silent woman who is preoccupied with her phone and has a horrible past. Luka is a bashful and feminine boy who has a crush on Okabe and wishes he could be a girl. Faris, a cute and lively maid who is the daughter of a wealthy family and has a secret identity, is also the best catgirl ever. Mr. Braun, the landlord of Okabe's laboratory and proprietor of a CRT TV store, is a gruff and strict man with a soft place for his daughter Nae and even Suzuha. And Suzuha, man, she's great.

I like seeing her true nature as John Titor emerge, and how she had to cope with her loneliness and isolation before opening out to Okabe and company and finding inspiration along the road. I was heartbroken when she traveled to 1975 only to die of disease or to forget memories, remember them, and then murder herself. That was another moment that slammed me like a freight train and made me feel nauseous. But I can't say I didn't appreciate the writing. It was so daring and original that I couldn't help but respect it. All of these characters have their own story roles and arcs that, no matter how little, all contribute significantly to the main plot and theme of Steins;Gate.

Steins;Gate is not perfect in some cases, however. It has some flaws that might deter some readers, such as the slow and confusing start, the heavy use of scientific and otaku jargon, the occasional fan-service and cliches, and the multiple endings that require a lot of replaying and skipping without a proper guide beforehand. However, I think that these flaws are minor compared to the strengths of the visual novel, and that they do not diminish its overall quality and impact. Steins;Gate is a masterpiece that deserves all the praise and recognition it has received, and more.

Steins;Gate is a visual novel that will make you laugh, cry, think, and feel. It will test your thinking, touch your emotions, and transform your viewpoint. It will take you on a voyage that you will never forget and that you will desire to repeat with your memories erased. Steins;Gate is more than simply a game; it is a phenomenon. It is a timeless narrative that will stay with you forever. This game is a must-read for anyone who wants their brain tickled, or in this instance, thoroughly elevated to grasp that this is the most deserving of the term "peak fiction." It is my literary magnum opus. I can't see myself ever forgetting my time spent with this game, and I am grateful to those who pushed me to play it.

El Psy Kongroo.

Mario Wonder is a shining beacon of creativity and style, offering a plethora of challenging levels and high-energy gameplay. As my inaugural experience with a 2D Mario and one of the few platformers in my gaming history, it presented a real challenge for me. Despite my personal struggle with gameplay, the visual art style and graphics were truly captivating. Mario and his companions burst with color, vibrancy, and a lifelike quality, putting the "New" games art style to shame.

One standout feature I appreciated was the inclusion of "Break Time" levels, which added a delightful twist to the typical A-to-B activities. I don't have a lot to say about this game, but it is hard to deny its impeccable craftsmanship, liveliness, and polish are entirely in line with Nintendo's reputation. I eagerly wait to play more Mario adventures in the future.

Final Fantasy XIV has come a long way since its rocky launch. With Heavensward, the game earned my heart, and with Shadowbringers, it earned my entire soul and being, igniting a deep appreciation for its masterful storytelling, character development, and world-building. This expansion isn't just a game; it's an experience that will leave you pondering the depths of existence, mourning fallen heroes, and cheering for victories earned through sacrifice.

Gone are the days of forgettable character arcs. Shadowbringers takes beloved companions like Thancred, Urianger, and Alisaie, strips them bare, and rebuilds them into versions that resonate on a profound level. They grapple with loss, regret, and the weight of their past, emerging stronger and more relatable than ever before.

These two characters are masterclasses in complexity. Emet-Selch's unwavering dedication to his lost Ascians, despite his morally ambiguous methods, makes him a villain you can't help but sympathize with. After all, if you lost your family and people to the forgotten threads of time and fate, what wouldn't you do to bring them back? Emet-Selch's plight and motives are not so different from our characters, and it really speaks volumes when you see the Scions trying to reason with him rather than be dead-set on destroying him.

And the Exarch, shrouded in mystery and burdened by an impossible task, offers a glimpse into the depths of selflessness. Every word they utter carries weight, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. From his selfless imprisonment in the Crystal Tower to his ultimate sacrifice to restore balance, G'raha Tia exemplifies the unwavering spirit of heroism. His journey and sacrifices throughout the game culminate into a poignant moment in the Crystal Tower, showcasing the exceptional writing of Shadowbringers. His redemption and chance at a renewed life are pushed me to tears, solidifying his place as my favorite character in Final Fantasy.

And don't let anyone tell you Ryne is just a whiny kid. Under the oppressive burden of expectation and manipulation due to her role as the Oracle of Light, she blossoms into a confident warrior, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit. Once she comes into acceptance of her purpose and she decides to fight for others rather than protect herself, it's an incredible moment that left an impact in my heart. Her arc is a testament to the power of growth and determination, earning her a well-deserved place among the Scions.

Shadowbringers doesn't disappoint on the gameplay front either. The 70-80 level range unlocks a wealth of abilities, making combat dynamic and engaging. Raids like Nier and Eden (atleast the parts I've done so far), along with stunning locales like the Amh Araeng, offer exhilarating challenges and experiences that put your skills to the test. I felt like the dungeons in Shadowbringers so far have been the most creative and fun, to where I really had no complaints unlike Stormblood's content.

As I reflect on my final moments in this incredible journey, the concluding boss battle stands out as a touching and intimate experience. Encouraged by a friend, I took on the role of tank for this significant encounter, activating my tank stance to draw the boss's attention entirely to me. This decision added a layer of fulfillment, making me realize that my year-long journey had led to one of the most satisfying fights in my gaming career. The impact of this battle was heightened by a visually stunning and epic spectacle, complemented by Masayoshi Soken's phenomenal "To The Edge." This composition, born from Soken's own struggles and battle with cancer, adds an extra layer of significance to the entire journey. It serves as a testament to the passion and soul poured into every facet of this experience, not only by Soken himself but also by the entire development team and the industry-defining history of Final Fantasy.

Even as a newcomer to this franchise, I could keenly feel the love and respect woven into Shadowbringers' tapestry. The numerous references and callbacks to past Final Fantasy games resonated throughout, offering a rewarding experience for longtime fans while remaining accessible to newcomers. It's a celebration of the series' rich history, inspiring me to delve even deeper into its captivating world.

Shadowbringers is more than just a game; it's an emotional odyssey that will stay with you long after you've finished it. The characters you meet and grow with feel like they're real people you know, and you come to treasure them like family. It's a testament to the power of videogame storytelling, character development, and the human spirit that channels through all of us. It's about how mankind overcomes the struggles of tragedy and how they rebuild their lives. So, if you're looking for an experience that will make you laugh, cry, and contemplate the very meaning of existence, look no further. Immerse yourself in the world of Shadowbringers, and let it ignite your soul.

In an era where my gaming attention span is notoriously short, often jumping from one game to another without pause, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth achieved something remarkable—it captured my full attention, making it nearly impossible for me to consider playing anything else. This achievement alone speaks volumes of its quality, and that's just the beginning. Infinite Wealth ascends to platinum status in entertainment with its exceptional execution, setting new standards for what a video game can offer. The game is a powerhouse, boasting a meticulously crafted combat system, richly developed characters, and a compelling soundtrack that collectively raise the bar for the industry.

The game's combat system is a standout achievement, masterfully balancing the strategic depth of turn-based mechanics with the exhilarating pace of action games. The introduction of tag team features and follow-up moves creates a fluid and dynamic combat experience that keeps every encounter fresh and engaging. Kiryu's combat is honestly a surreal combination of both the turn-based and action-based combat that still boggles me to this day. I seriously am in awe of how well they made it transition into this style. This deep combat system, accompanied by an electrifying dubstep revival soundtrack, propels Infinite Wealth into a league of its own, rivaling even Persona 5 Royal in terms of energy and innovation.

The narrative arc of Infinite Wealth is another of its crowning achievements. While the game's ending may seem rushed, with several plot threads left dangling, this choice appears intentional, paving the way for a concluding entry in what is possibly going to be a trilogy. The ending redemption beats of Eiji's story, alongside the unresolved fates of characters like Bryce, Akane, Sawashiro, and others possibly hints at a larger narrative yet to be unveiled for the future, as these character suddenly disappear. This does not detract from the game; instead, it adds a layer of intrigue and promise for the future.

New characters like Chitose and Eric add significant depth to the game's world, with their development and interactions with protagonist Ichiban showcasing some of the most emotionally resonant storytelling in the series. The game navigates themes of loyalty, redemption, and growth with a deft hand, particularly in the relationship between Ichiban and Chitose. Their journey from deceit to mutual support and atonement is a highlight, underscoring the narrative's focus on character and connection.

And speaking of Ichiban, I have to give credit. RGG Studios created an amazing character in Like a Dragon 7, and he continues to shine in Infinite Wealth. Ichiban's infectious positivity and unwavering determination continue to make him a standout protagonist, his ability to see and nurture the good in others is nothing short of inspirational. This game further cements his status as a beacon of hope, with his actions and relationships demonstrating a profound impact on those around him. I am happy that he has become the new leading protagonist of the series.

Equally compelling is the treatment of Kiryu in this installment. Infinite Wealth not only positions Kiryu as a central figure but continues to elevate him to legendary status. There are key moments revolving him that are treated with the gravity they deserve, capturing the awe and reverence his character commands. The storyline delves deep into the emotional core of his legacy, from the collective distress over his cancer diagnosis to the poignant exploration of his bucket list and memoirs. This nuanced portrayal pays homage to Kiryu's enduring influence, showcasing RGG's deep respect for both the character and his fans. Together, Ichiban and Kiryu's stories are woven into a rich tapestry that honors their past, explores their present challenges, and sets the stage for their future.

Infinite Wealth is a shining example of how a game can transcend the boundaries of its genre, blending exhilarating combat, a compelling narrative, and a vibrant soundtrack into an unforgettable experience. While its conclusion may leave some questions unanswered, this choice feels like a deliberate setup for a grander finale. The game's deep character connections, particularly between Ichiban and the new cast, are its heart and soul, offering a rich tapestry of emotional depth and growth. As a pivotal entry in the Like a Dragon series, Infinite Wealth not only pays homage to its roots but also boldly strides into new territory. It's a testament to the power of storytelling in video games and a solid foundation for the future of the series.