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Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age Review

By Nicholas Bale ()

It's not hard to argue that Dragon Quest XI is the best in the series, but this is for a series that isn't exactly known for its innovations. Its core gameplay loop still feels like something from over a decade a go, but there's such a high level of polish as well as small improvements and changes that the game still is fun to play. There's no denying that it appeals almost entirely to an already-existing fanbase, but there's no denying that, for what Dragon Quest XI does, it does well. Read More.

Conan Exiles Review

By Daniel Acaba ()

I like Conan Exiles. I’ve dumped at least four hundred hours into exploring and escaping the Exiled Lands. But there are so many fundamental issues with the experience. The game is a time sink on the level of an MMO and has just about as much repetition. It’s just a draining, exhausting experience. Other players can alleviate the strain but they’re just as apt to make it even worse. Read More.

State of Decay 2 Review

By Daniel Acaba ()

No matter how much fun I have while playing the game, State of Decay 2 is just a huge mess in its current condition. It’s a shame too since everything else about State of Decay 2 is so much better than the first. But all of that promise falls apart if you’re constantly assailed by bugs and glitches while also being hammered by repetitive quests and infestations. It just kind of glomps together into one gigantic mess of a game that actively fights against you enjoying it. Read More.

The Alliance Alive Review

By Nicholas Bale ()

The Alliance Alive comes with a lot of interesting ideas, such as character growth without experience points or levels, a lot of tactical choices, and a skill system that's based around specialization. Unfortunately, it doesn't really do a good job at creating a lot of depth in the gameplay with these mechanics, instead creating a number of pitfalls in its execution that leave a lot to be desired as you play the game. Read More.

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life Review

By Nicholas Bale ()

Yakuza 6: The Song of Life brings a new look to the series, showcasing off what the series really could look and feel like. Unfortunately in the process a lot of content is missing, making it feel like the game's lacking something small, yet important. That said, a story that hits closer to Kiryu's heart, combined with some interesting new characters and smoother gameplay, still make for a game that stands out on the console. Read More.

Etrian Odyssey V: Beyond the Myth Review

By Nicholas Bale ()

The Etrian Odyssey series started with few frills - go into a dungeon and clear it floor by floor. The fifth core game in its series has gone back to these roots, removing extraneous gameplay elements and focusing on a single, multi-tiered dungeon exploration experience - but while also adding layers of depth in its character growth, culminating in a satisfyingly complex experience that will have you venturing deeper and deeper to see exactly how well your party options will pan out against the next foe. Read More.

Blood Bowl 2: Legendary Edition Review

By Daniel Acaba ()

A lot of effort went into Blood Bowl 2, the Legendary Edition even more so. Beautiful graphics, humorous voice acting and a glut of options make for a game that is even more appealing than the table top. Something has been lost in the transfer, mostly the experience of playing with close friends. But if you don’t mind a somewhat spiteful dice roller there’s a lot of fun, and content, to be had here. Just… try not to get too attached to anyone. Read More.

Utawarerumono: Mask of Truth Review

By Nicholas Bale ()

Where Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception, spent numerous hours creating a world lacking in characters with much, if any depth, and a plot in which little happened, Mask of Truth gives a second half of the tale that actually creates interesting situations, protagonists, and battles, improving upon what came before in numerous ways. Read More.

Pillars of Eternity Review

By Daniel Acaba ()

Pillars of Eternity is an amazing game. There was no point in the one hundred plus hours of playing it that something really annoyed me beyond a few minor control quabbles. A few disappointments and difficulty bumps mar the experience but nowhere near enough to negatively impact my enjoyment. Obsidian has managed to make a classic RPG that will be talked about for years to come. Read More.

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