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DualShockersLatest Reviews
However, if you look hard enough, there are some clues that can build a larger picture. As a PlayStation 5 title, it uses the console’s features well, especially the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. While it may not be for everyone, The Pedestrian is worth a shot. It stands out from the crowd in so many ways, leaving a positive impact on me in the end.
Despite some technical issues and wanting more out of the game’s map, Bugsnax is a fantastic follow-up to Young Horses’ Octodad: Dadliest Catch. It’s unlike any game released this year, and it feels like a breath of fresh air as this year ends. With 2020 being a hard year for me and everyone else worldwide, playing Bugsnax helped me forget about what's going on for a moment and provided nothing but pure joy. With such heavy hitters like Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Demon’s Souls on the PS5 at launch, Bugsnax is a delightful experience that no one should skip out on.
None of this is to say that Children of Morta is a bad game. In some ways, it’s very good. The way it interweaves the familial unit throughout the story and the game’s mechanics is an awesome touch. In motion, the game is absolutely gorgeous. That said, I think there are better roguelikes in which to sink your teeth. The Bergsons were a great family to visit, but much like a crazy aunt, I wouldn’t want to live with them forever.
And ultimately, I think playing Neo Cab takes a mood. When you’re tired after a long day and can’t bring yourself to deal with anything more challenging or more involved, Neo Cab will be there. It isn’t going to amaze you with ornate animations or deep gameplay, but it might calm you down. It’ll get you to think about life and society, and it’ll take you on a bizarre trip through a futuristic town and the fragile psychological state of its denizens. Be prepared, though, for a game that is entirely devoted to storytelling. What gameplay it offers is just icing-on-the-cake, and it could probably use a bit more sugar.
Overall, Code Vein offers an experience that's a bit too similar to the FromSoftware games that established the genre. Its combat doesn't stray far from other Soulslike games but with features such as the Blood Code system, it does offer some variety that could lead to wanting to complete multiple playthroughs. The anime art style and story can be both absurd but also entertaining to watch at the same time. If you love Soulslikes and want an experience that will be very similar to past games, then maybe Code Vein is right for you. However, if you're looking for a new take on the subgenre, you may have to wait a bit longer.
All in all, though, Blair Witch is still an awfully good game. Its unique story about guilt and PTSD, its flexible gameplay, and its inventive approach at horror all make it worthy of your attention. It is also the best Blair Witch-related thing to happen in 20 years, so if you’re already a fan of the franchise, I can’t imagine why you’d miss it. Prepare to be surprised, scared, and delighted.
My most confident recommendation of Ancestors goes to casual gamers. Despite the game's apparent commitment to realistic survival mechanics, it doesn’t ask you to raise your nerd levels to any great heights. It isn’t weighed down by lore, for instance, nor do you need to read a Wiki to figure out how to do stuff. Rather, your motivation is simple—you’re a monkey—and you solve challenges with patience and by following on-screen instructions. “Hold A to give birth.” Got it. Now enjoy watching your baby monkey bounce around. Show Ancestors to your friend who doesn’t really like complicated or difficult games, and I’m sure they’ll enjoy helping the monkeys fight for survival. As I said at the top, Ancestors can be pretty chill.
For those that love roguelikes or for those that have been looking to give the genre a try, you can't go wrong with RAD and experiencing yet another imaginative title from Double Fine.
Blazing Chrome is a top-of-the-line appetizer to what could be a masterpiece of a five-course meal. I really hope this game does well because I cannot wait to see what JoyMasher does for their follow-up. If they can build on the rock-solid foundation they've created here, they might produce something truly spectacular.
Shadowbringers has set quite a standard in quality of content delivered and how Yoshi P and his team respond positively to community feedback for further updates. While there are some flaws to be addressed still, many of these are due to how ambitious in nature Shadowbringers is in every category. With an outline of future content roll-outs that includes a Nier: Automata YoRHa series of raids, more notoriously difficult Savage difficulty trials, housing updates, and an ever-expanding story, there’s even more to look forward to down the road with Shadowbringers.