Matthew O'Dwyer
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DualShockersLatest Reviews
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is everything I loved about Final Fantasy 7 Remake with more polish, refinement, and depth. It's a stunning achievement. While I won’t ruin any of the major story beats here, this game is going to have fans talking for a long time. The story is full of twists and turns for longtime fans and newcomers alike. If you haven’t played Remake, I would strongly suggest playing that game first, as it really props up the story of Rebirth. If you have played Remake, then buckle up for what is sure to be one of the best games you’ll play in 2024.
While Hawaii may not always be the paradise Ichiban initially thought it was, showing the underbelly and corruption within the setting is a worthwhile endeavor. Every place has its problems, and the game conveys a wonderful message by showing that. Players looking for a large game they can sink hours upon hours into will feel right at home here. The side games are anything but mini, and players should feel free to take their time with this one. This isn’t a game that shines by rushing to the end. Much like paradise itself, it asks you to stay a while, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
Warhammer 40k: Rogue Trader is a wonderful story-driven RPG for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Despite its flaws, I can’t deny that I had a great time walking in the shoes of Kiryu. I enjoyed the story, the exciting combat, and the thrilling action. While I may have finished the main story, I’ll be going back for more side content to see what I may have missed along the way. While the combat may not demand a high investment from its players, there’s no denying that the deeper you dig, the more you get. This is a game that rewards its players for high levels of engagement but doesn’t punish the casual player just along for the ride. Whether you’re a true blue fan or a newcomer to the series, there’s a lot to enjoy about Like A Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name.
To say that, like the first one, Marvel’s Spider-Man is the perfect Spider-Man game is true. However, that statement is also a disservice. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is as close to a perfect game as I have ever played. In a year when even the best games have had to scratch and claw for their moment in the sun, Insomniac’s latest title is a standout experience. From the main story to side missions and collectibles, meaningful narrative rewards players at every turn. It’s the most fun I’ve ever had getting a platinum, because every aspect rewards you for engaging with it. I’ll be eagerly awaiting New Game Plus, but I likely won’t wait that long to replay it again. It’s completely different from my other favorite game of the year, but it edges out all of the competition by being a thoughtful thrill ride from start to finish.
After eight long years of waiting, Bayonetta is back with all her flash and pomp intact. And while I expect this entry to hold my interest for quite a while, I hope we don’t have to wait another eight years before we see one of the biggest names in gaming return.