Rhett Waselenchuk
This author account hasn't been claimed yet. To claim this account, please contact the outlet owner to request access.
Writing For
COGConnected Latest Reviews
Dying Light: The Beast is not a safe sequel. It does not attempt to simply enlarge the cityscapes or double down on familiar systems. Instead, Techland recalibrates the franchise, opting for a more intimate, tension-driven approach rooted in the original’s survival horror fundamentals. While not every risk pays off, the ambition is appreciated. For players seeking another sprawling urban parkour playground, this entry may feel narrower in scope. However, for those who want to experience atmospheric, nerve-shredding moments, The Beast delivers. It challenges you not only to endure the infected but to examine the humanity you cling to in a world intent on stripping it away.
Ghost of Yotei is one of the best games I’ve ever played. From top to bottom, beginning to end, it is the epitome of what Triple-A game developers should strive for. It completely delivers on all fronts – combat, narrative, visuals, world-building, and audio. But, most importantly, it’s simply a ton of fun. Sucker Punch Productions has raised the bar to a seemingly insurmountable height. When it’s all said and done, people will look back at this generation and regard Ghost of Yotei as a true magnum opus. It’s games like these that remind me just how special the medium can be.
College Football 26 is a triumphant, if imperfect, return to the gridiron. It successfully captures the spirit, passion, and strategic depth that make college football the beloved institution it is. The core gameplay is fantastic, and the immersive Dynasty Mode provides hundreds of hours of rewarding team-building. While marred by repetitive commentary and a smattering of intrusive bugs, the foundation here is rock-solid. For fans of college football, it’s an essential purchase. It’s still not a flawless champion just yet, but its potential to build a long-lasting dynasty is undeniable.
Death Stranding 2 is a massive achievement for Hideo Kojima and Kojima Productions. It elevates nearly everything that made the original such a unique experience. It streamlines the majority of its systems to make them more palatable. It’s drop-dead gorgeous and introduces enough new mechanics to feel fresh while never alienating what makes the franchise so special. Death Stranding 2 is undoubtedly one of the best games of the year, and well worth the agonizing six-year wait. This is a game that will be in my rotation for hundreds of more hours. From start to finish, it blew me away. Keep on keeping on.
With its visual prowess, RoadCraft presents a promising foundation for a unique and engaging construction simulator. Its road construction mechanics and realistic environments are impressive. However, it also feels underdeveloped and lacking in customization, which previous Saber Interactive games have. In addition, clunky UI and a plethora of bugs ultimately hold RoadCraft back from realizing its full potential. While dedicated fans of road engineering and construction simulators might enjoy the game’s granular control and visual feedback, “RoadCraft” requires significant improvements and additions before it can truly compete with established players in the genre. It’s a game with a strong concept but needs a lot more work before it’s ready for prime time. The foundation is there, but the road ahead is still under construction.
Ultimately, MLB The Show 25 delivers another solid simulation baseball experience, building upon the strong foundation established by its predecessors. Does it capture the magic of being on the diamond? I think so. The improved fielding/running/hitting systems make the core gameplay loop feel fantastic. Franchise mode has seen a couple of much-appreciated additions. And Diamond Dynasty is fun again with the season system behind it. The team at San Diego Studio continues to show dedication and passion for capturing the essence of baseball. This year’s offering, while not perfect, demonstrates their commitment to evolving and improving the franchise.
It’s clear that Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection will only appeal to a tiny, very niche audience. It just so happens that I fall into that group. Poor choice of included games, an almost disrespectful lack of multiplayer, and no effort put into modernizing mechanics doesn’t exactly make for an enjoyable, user-friendly experience. Despite all of this, I’ve still had fun with it. It’s not great, but damnit, I kinda, sorta, like it.
Some of the textures and models can sometimes feel a bit rough around the edges, however. Frame rates can dip in particularly busy areas, such as during intense battles or when exploring crowded regions. These minor issues are essentially negligible and didn’t detract from my time with Pirate Yakuza. It’s a beautiful game that rewards players for taking the time to explore.
For my money, Lego Horizon Adventures is the best Lego game I’ve played. It does a great job of retelling Aloy’s story, all the while never losing sight of what makes Lego games great. At times, it’s hilarious, and other times, it’s heartwarming. Plus, it looks absolutely gorgeous. It’s also chock-full of content for players to discover, rewarding those who take the time to search every nook and cranny of its diverse set of levels. I do feel it plays things a little too safe at times. But for fans of the Lego games, it has everything one could want from a new entry into the franchise.
After a decade-long hiatus, EA Sports’ take on college football is back, baby. Naturally, I kept my expectations in check and headed into College Football 25 with deep reservations. How could I not? I won’t pretend EA Sports hasn’t had an abysmal reputation when it comes to their football games over the last ten years. Thankfully, my worries were quickly put to rest. College Football 25 is excellent, delivering an atmospheric, fast-paced take on football that does what Madden hasn’t done in a long time.