Keith Mitchell
Game industry critic and reviewer
Writing For
The OuterHaven Latest Reviews
Reanimal is Tarsier Studios at its darkest and most uncompromising. What begins as a familiar, eerie setup quickly spirals into something far more unsettling, blending tense exploration, co-op-driven puzzle solving, and memorable chase and boss encounters that steadily escalate in intensity. While the experience is short and occasionally frustrating when played solo due to AI partner issues, its atmosphere, pacing, and willingness to push players out of their comfort zone leave a lasting impression. This is not a continuation of Little Nightmares, but a bolder, more disturbing evolution that proves Tarsier is fully unleashed.
Nioh 3 doesn’t reinvent the series, and it does not need to. Instead, Team Ninja refines nearly every system the franchise has built over the years and layers meaningful additions on top. The dual combat styles, interconnected world, improved co-op structure, and player-friendly respec system all feel like natural evolutions rather than gimmicks. But let’s be honest, the reason you’re here is the combat, and it does not disappoint.
MIO: Memories in Orbit is a visually stunning Metroidvania that nails exploration, atmosphere, and that “one more room” feeling. The module-based progression keeps combat fresh, and the story has enough mystery and emotional weight to keep you pushing forward. But the game isn’t without issues, including unclear direction, overly punishing platforming sections, limited accessibility options, and a frustrating story moments that can remove hard-earned health upgrades. It’s a great experience overall, albeit with a few flaws.
MARVEL Cosmic Invasion delivers one of the best modern Marvel beat ’em up experiences in years. With authentic character personalities, sharp animations, and nonstop comic-book energy, it feels made for longtime Marvel fans. A deeper X-Men and Fantastic Four roster would have elevated it even more, but the core gameplay is outstanding.
Absolum blends the best of 2D beat ’em ups and roguelike design into a loop that’s challenging, unpredictable, and downright addictive. It doesn’t reinvent either genre, but its tight combat, branching paths, and stunning presentation make it a must-play for fans of both. Despite being Dotemu’s first original IP, you’d never know it. This is a masterclass in design that kept me hooked, even as it repeatedly kicked my teeth in.
Dying Light: The Beast is everything I wanted from Techland’s return to the series. The combat is brutal and fun, the sandbox world is massive and rewarding to explore, and Beast Mode is an absolute highlight. I feel that this is still the best entry in the franchise and a must-play for fans of Dying Light.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a return to form for the Sonic kart-racing series, while adding exciting mechanics like portals that shift your race mid-race. The plentiful roster, the tracks are creative and colorful, the visuals shine and the racing and fast and fun. On the downside, handling can feel loose in tighter turns, rubber-banding and item chaos sometimes detract from competitive racing. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced kart racing, then Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds delivers.
Gears of War: Reloaded breathes new life into a classic, delivering upgraded visuals, smoother performance, and all the brutal cover-shooting action that made the original legendary. From the chilling horror elements and iconic boss encounters to the witty squad banter, it proves just how well Gears of War has aged nearly 20 years later. With 4K, HDR, high frame rates, and full cross-play multiplayer, this is the best way for veterans and newcomers alike to experience the start of the saga.
After waiting for decades, Shinobi and Joe Musashi have not just made a proper return, but are a shining example of what SEGA can do with its older titles, should it want to. It’s simply flawless, full of enjoyable combat, tricky sections, and plenty to keep ninja gaming fans happy from start to finish. Welcome back, Joe. We’ve missed you.
Dark Deity 2 builds on its predecessor with deeper strategic battles and richer character-driven storytelling. Assemble your team, forge unbreakable bonds, and lead powerful heroes through an epic struggle where every choice shapes the journey. But does it surpass the original? Watch the review to find out!