Henry Stockdale
These days, I'm the Senior Editor for UploadVR, but I started covering video games in 2010 with Nintendo Life before returning to media in 2019. While virtual reality has become my specialist field, my role also allows me to freelance for other outlets, so you'll also find me published at Eurogamer, IGN, Push Square, startmenu and more. I'm also open to working on mock reviews.
Writing For
Eurogamer
Rock Paper Shotgun
Nintendo Life
Push Square
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After a near 50-hour journey, my second trip to the Republic of Calvard was certainly worth it. Despite my issues with the story and the new dungeon, Trails Through Daybreak 2 remains compelling thanks to its strong cast of characters, enjoyable combat and well-considered worldbuilding. It's not quite the leap forward I was hoping for, though it's still a great time that I'd recommend to any fans of the first game.
Historically, it's not uncommon to see Trails sequels launch this soon after the original game and that's also true with the Japanese Daybreak launch. While I didn't expect any sweeping changes given it's a direct sequel, these smaller updates could go a long way in Trails through Daybreak 2. I'm particularly curious to see how the time travel mechanics play out narratively, and I'll be checking out the full release next year.
Nihon Falcom's latest entry offers a thrilling adventure that feels even better than its predecessors. The Cross Action system ensures combat feels like a notable improvement with its dual abilities, there's a captivating story, and that's all tied together through a compelling sailing system that rewards exploration. Ys X: Nordics is a remarkable entry in a series that continues making welcome evolutions, and I can't recommend it enough.
As an early access release, it's worth highlighting the promised full-release changes. The developer, Pixel Perfect Dude, states future additions include new cars, additional maps and tracks, more co-drivers, and further customisation options. I'll be interested in returning when we reach Version 1.0, but what's currently here is reassuring. Racing in #DRIVE Rally isn't the most remarkable experience I've ever encountered, yet it's engaging enough that I keep retrying stages to beat my high scores. Right now, I'm having fun.
By cutting out the wider micromanagement, Golden Lap delivers a more casual racing management sim that's held my interest. Building a team feels straightforward yet strategic. There's an appealing art style and a real sense of risk-taking I've not seen before in this genre. Taking victory with the seventh-place team after a hard-fought qualifying felt particularly lovely. Though I couldn't quite muster up the performance to win the season, seeing my main driver come second overall in the season feels great. Come full release, Golden Lap could be a podium contender.
Ultimately, these are straight ports and while they don't feel entirely necessary, it's the definitive way to play two solid RPGs. Cold Steel 3 sets the stage with a gripping story and entertaining gameplay, while Cold Steel 4 delivers an exciting conclusion that sometimes strains under its ambition. Together, they finish an integral part of one of gaming's most compelling sagas, and while I'm ready for the next adventure, revisiting Erebonia brought me no end of joy.
Persona 5 Tactica marks a welcome return for the Phantom Thieves, delivering a fun strategy spin-off with plenty of heart.
Frontier's annual management sim offers some small refinements over its predecessor but a lack of major upgrades means it doesn't snatch pole.
Nintendo's long-running fantasy series looks to its rich history for this smart, satisfying turn-based tactical RPG game.
Still, I can’t recommend Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana enough, and I'm ecstatic to see it back. Whether you’re a new player looking for a fresh adventure or a returning player considering a second playthrough, don’t let a barebones port dissuade you. Thanks to its engaging gameplay and entertaining story, there’s still a wonderful action RPG here, and PS5 has become the definitive way to play. While I believe Ys IX is the better game, which is also coming to PS5 next year, Ys VIII remains a classic that any RPG fan should experience.