Sarah Thwaites
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TechRadar GamingLatest Reviews
At its best, there are shades of a deeper RPG here, but it doesn’t quite have the mechanical backing to fulfill this proposal. Even so, while the systemic scope of Atomfall isn’t massive, the small world it conjures feels rich and full all the way to its atmospheric finale – or at least the atmospheric finale I chose.
It Takes Two is a moreish co-op platformer full of engaging toybox puzzles and inventive boss battles. Emerging into a new area is a joy, environments carefully dressed with adorable bric-a-brac that is in equal parts precious and perilous. Yet despite strong writing in the story, its finale is too formulaic to leave a lasting impression even if the heartfelt vocal performances help get it over the line.
A Way Out is a pithy cooperative adventure game that carefully explores the grey area between good and evil, complemented by dual protagonists Leo and Vincent’s contradictory masculine archetypes and charming back-and-forths. Heart-pounding chase scenes and complex twists bolster this emotional tale all the way to its high-octane climax, which stayed with me long after the credits rolled.
Two Point Museum is a fantastic addition to a cozy weekend or long-haul flight. The combination of wacky customer animations, tongue-in-cheek exhibits, and well-written narration brilliantly complements the approachable management systems, keeping me entertained as I focused on making my business a success.
Lost Records: Bloom & Rage digs deep into the realities of coming of age in the 90s. Whether through snappy, gorgeously rendered cutscenes, fuzzy homemade VHS tapes, or confused conversations at the local watering hole, it’s a thoughtful story that delivers sincerity in a way that feels quintessentially human. Propped up by a cavalcade of multi-faceted characters, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage Part 1 is a no-holds-barred opening act that will leave you desperate for Part 2.
Lego Horizon Adventures is a funny platformer that avoids adapting the source material’s complex lore and opts for simple, repetitive levels that become tiresome quickly. However, despite heartfelt vocal performances and beautiful world design, Lego Horizon Adventures fails to reach its full potential.
Frostpunk 2 is a brutal but incredibly moreish post-apocalyptic city builder that’s easy to sink hours into despite the thankless trappings. A humbling array of deep systems engaged my inner tactician without ever making me feel overwhelmed. Plus, with multiple game modes and difficulty settings, even the pain-hungry Frostpunk veterans will likely be satisfied. More than anything, though, Frostpunk 2 stands out with its morbid personality, creating an atmosphere that bleeds into its brilliant writing, which dips between depressing and hilarious.