Kraven

This weekend I’m mainly playing NieR: Automata on the Nintendo Switch. I originally played the game on the base PS4 when it first released, and the fact I can now play this game (strictly) in handheld is a miracle. I completed it once but didn’t do any subsequent play throughs, so I’m determined to do that this time around to get the full story of what is considered a masterpiece in the medium.

I’ll also be dabbling into Fire Emblem Engage. I bought it, but I’m still relatively hesitant on it overall. The story seems to be hit or miss for some, along with the characters, but the age-old motto is present: Gameplay is king, and Engage apparently has some of the best combat, if not the best, in the entire series. That said, I hope the story will grip me. Unfortunately, the thing that really sets me off from being completely invested is the character models and presentation — it looks way too mobile-y.

I also purchased Persona 3 Portable on the Nintendo Switch. P4G is one of my favorite games of all time, and P5R is just as good - but I’ve never played P3. I was thinking about playing the game via Xbox Game Pass, but I can’t pass up the convenience and portability. I’m looking forward to getting sucked into another masterful JRPG.

This game looks so good, and is one of my most anticipated games for 2023. This might make up for a lack of a new mainline Fallout game even though they are structurally very different games.

This weekend I’m back to the Sniper Elite 5 (Xbox Series X) grind. I played the game when it first released last year and loved it, but eventually moved on to other games. Now that I’m back, I’m tackling the DLC and collectibles I missed prior. I adore this game from top to bottom. I’ve seen some people finish the game in 8-10 hours and that blows my mind. I spend about two hours plus in one map alone, taking my time and exploring, methodically planning my kills, hiding all bodies without being seen, etc.

The level design is also superb, and each map is a huge sandbox that lets you approach how you tackle objectives. As you explore the map — if that’s how you decide to play — you’ll uncover a plethora of stuff: New starting locations, collectibles, intel that will lead to other objectives, great sniping locations, and more.

The DLC maps are just as fun and well thought out. I can see Rebellion took a page from the recent Hitman games and added more way to kill your target(s), and Hitler. You can use poison, dropping chandeliers, etc.; SE5 may not have the same depth as those games, but I think it most certainly plays better mechanically.

People can scoff at this if they want - I think this game is absolutely essential. To me, I find it to be one of the very best stealth games ever made.

I’m also playing the first great game of 2023: Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider (Nintendo Switch). Games like this are why I bought a Switch to begin with. The 16-bit pixel art is sublime, and really nails down the retro games from a time past. With that said - some of the controls do feel a little unresponsive at times, but maybe it’s because I don’t have a firm grasp on the combat and traversal mechanics just yet. But the upgrades are fantastic, and really remind me of the gem of a game: Cyber Shadow.

Nonetheless, I’m having a fantastic time with the game. I was a big fan of Blazing Chrome, and I’m glad to see this game delivered and then some. I’ll be playing this title for a while due to the replayability with acquiring all collectibles and ending the level with a good ranking score.

Maybe it’s just me, but Ubisoft games (everything following AC: Origins) seem to have no soul in them other than Immortal Fenyx Rising. Seriously, I used to adore Origins, but I tried playing it on Game Pass last year and it seemed so lifeless. I am immediately bored when I jump in because there’s no heart to the games they make anymore. Some games from developers, you can feel the love they put into it, but not Ubisoft. They are simply a hollow shell.

I had a feeling this was going to be the case, even though people were throwing a fit that Starfield wasn’t going to be in the rumored, but now confirmed showcase on the 25th. Starfield is such a huge new IP, and lopping it in with other games for perhaps a five or ten minute showing would have not done it justice. I can’t wait for what Microsoft has in store for us in these next few months.

I’m incredibly excited about this. The fact that Microsoft managed to get a Team Ninja game day one on Game Pass is awesome news, and I hope the game procures much success. NiOH 1 and 2 are phenomenal games, and it’s a real shame they will probably never be part of the Xbox ecosystem, so this is definitely a nice get.

I’m pretty pumped about this. My biggest hurdle is whether or not I’ll get it for the Series X or Switch.

@Benved Great game to choose! That’s my 2022 GOTY.

I started Evil West (Xbox Series X) last Sunday and completed it yesterday morning before work. I adore this title by Flying Wild Hogs.

You know what’s great about this game? It unequivocally knows it’s a video game. It’s a pure Xbox 360 arcade-y, on rails third person shooter similar to Gears of War, and the FPS Bulletstorm. It has the over-the-top dialogue that you’d see in B action movies, and uses the comedy style you’d see in the Wolfenstein games in how they discuss killing Nazi’s, but in this case, Vampires.

Sure, the level design is incredibly outdated, particularly with invisible walls — but there is something refreshing about a tight, 12-hour linear experience that is actually nostalgic. I don’t always need an open world 40-hour plus comedienne. That said, it is disappointing that you can’t backtrack once you realize you missed a collectible, but that’s a minor nitpick due to levels being re-playable.

The combat is pretty fun and frantic as well. It takes a while to unlock new interesting abilities and weapons, but once you do it’s a blast combining everything together to wreck havoc. It can get a little too chaotic at times. Oftentimes, too many waves of enemies will sometimes be thrown at you and it can become overwhelming. In fact, I’ve died in normal mode in this game than I have in any other game in years. It requires you to actually use every weapon in your arsenal. Once you understand that it really makes for a fun time.

I’ll probably start a NG+ in order to unlock all perks and upgrades (it’s not possible to do it all in a single playthrough - a flaw in game design, in my opinion) and mop up some more achievements. Maybe this time around I’ll bring a buddy along.

Overall, Evil West is just old school fun, and sometimes that’s all what a game needs. And did I mention that it’s fully playable in cooperative mode? If that doesn’t sell you ok the game then I don’t know what will.

I’m also starting Crisis Core - Final Fantasy VII Reunion on Xbox Series X. I was going to buy it on my PS5, but I decided to support it through Microsoft, with the blinded hope that Square Enix will see the demand to have their games be on this ecosystem.

Another game I’m going to replay is Bulletstorm: Full Clip Edition. I’m in an arcade-y, off the walls FPS from the Xbox 360 era type of mood. It helps that it’s one of the best FPSs from that generation, and quite unique as well. I miss those days. Gaming was so much more … fun back then.

@Jeff_D They are saying it’s comparable because of it being cooperative, but it’s not like that game. I’m not sure of your confusion in the matter, but I think you’re overreacting by essentially saying you’re not going to play the game because of it being compared to the game (even though that’s inaccurate).

@Jeff_D Did you not read the article? It specifically says that it’s understandable why it is compared to Left 4 Dead, but it’s not like that at all.

Well, I finally decided to buy it. I’m not sure when I’ll get around to playing it — but it is there for me whenever I get the itch.

I am constantly tempted by Gotham Knights. I know a lot of critics were harsh on the game, but the public seems to think it is pretty solid. I think I’ll probably look up more reviews and see if it might suit my tastes.

I’ve heard good things about this game so I’ll definitely check it out.

I’m okay with a May release date. There are plenty of other games coming out, particularly on Game Pass, that will take up my time. A few of those games are Persona 3/4, Atomic Heart (a game I’ve been clamoring for for years now), and although it’s not a Game Pass title, Star Wars Jedi Survivor. All of those games including what’s currently in my backlog will keep me plenty busy.

I’m also expecting Microsoft to have a showcase this month. I don’t know why, but it’s just a suspicion of mine considering the lack of AAA presence at the Game Awards and the rumors following since. I genuinely believe we are in store for a few surprises between now and May.

This will be an interesting choice for some on this site, but I’ll definitely give it a go. I played it originally on the PS5 and loved it, and had it downloaded for my Series X but uninstalled it because I wasn’t playing it and had to make room for other games, so this will be a good incentive to download it again.

Chained Echoes. I’m going to beat this drum for a very long time. It’s one of the best JRPGs in recent memory. If you enjoy turn based RPGs that is inspired by Chrono Trigger, FFVI, and Dragon Quest - this game is for you. It’s incredibly well written, with each character having an evolving backstory that gets concluded if you do all the side quests. The combat is fantastic, and is constantly expanding so it doesn’t get stagnant. And the story is very good, and deep. Seriously, I would have never expected this to be my GOTY over Elden Ring, God of War Ragnarok, and A Plague Tale, but my goodness, it surprised the hell out of me.

I finally beat Chained Echoes (Xbox Series X), and I consider the game to be an absolute masterpiece. It’s one of the best JRPGs I’ve played in a very long time. I have a feeling this will be a game I play annually, probably around the Christmas time.

What I find so fascinating about the game is how there are many characters in the game and many join your party; however, they all have fleshed out backstories and motivations. Hell, even a particular merchant that is an NPC - if you talk to him every new place you visit, you’ll discover his history. Furthermore, their storylines get concluded as well. The fact that one individual made this game blows my mind. I can see why it took seven years to develop. The creator, Matthias Linda, really took his time with the writing and it shows in spades. I can’t wait to see what he does next.

I’m not sure what I want to start next. I have a plethora of games to choose from: Prodeus, Crisis Core Final Fantasy 7 Reunion (say that five times fast), Signalis, and Marvel Midnight Suns. The latter is tempting and calling my name, but we will see. I don’t want to start a super lengthy game because I want my focus to be on the Dead Space remake when it releases.

This looks so freaking good, and it’s easily my most anticipated game for 2023.

Personally, I found this to be one of Xbox’s stronger years in terms of indie games and Game Pass. Sure, the lack of AAA exclusives being released compared to Sony and Nintendo is disheartening, but Xbox is on the right track.

@Floki That is a valid point; however, all of those games I mentioned are available on Game Pass. Moreover, they are generally released day one. If I had to choose between Game Pass or actually buying the game on my PS5, I’d have to choose GP because it’s much more accessible, and saves me money in the grand scheme of things.

I actually agree. I know people are complaining about the lack of AAA games on Xbox, and rightfully so, but I think this year has been fantastic for the ecosystem. I don’t understand this narrative of Xbox had nothing to offer in 2022.

Just a few games I loved this year off of the top of my head:

Tunic
Sniper Elite 5
TMNT Shredder’s Revenge
Persona 5 Royal
Pentiment
High on Life
Signalis
Chained Echoes
Vampire Survivors
Weird West
Prodeus
Immortality

And there are so many more. I’ve played my Series X more than my Switch and PS5 combined. I think this year is arguably one of Xbox’s best, but that’s just my opinion.

A Plague Tale is my number 1, but Elden Ring is is just as fantastic! It’s a shame Chained Echoes isn’t on here, but it’s understandable. I’m happy to see High on Life on here, though. Overall, I think it has been a fantastic year for Xbox thanks to Game Pass and the excellent additions they’ve added over the year.

I won’t be playing much because I’ll be out of town with my wife for the holidays, but with the little time I do get I’ll be continuing my journey through Chained Echoes (Xbox Series X). I think it’s official for me - this is my GOTY. It continues to get better and better, and it’s a wonderful blend of Chrono Trigger, FFVI, and the Dragon Quest games. To me, it’s one of the best JRPG’s in the last five years or more.

Other than that, I am dabbling in Midnight Fight Express (Xbox Series X). I wanted something to play that was primarily gameplay oriented and this game has not disappointed in that regard. It’s a mix between Sifu and Hotline Miami, with combat similar to the Batman Arkham games.

There’s a lot of replayability, with tons of challenges to complete, skills to unlock, and various outfits to procure. My only complaint is the amount of dialogue — not voice acted, by the way — that you have to continue to skip manually, and it is constantly interrupting your fighting throughout the level. If it wasn’t for that, I would absolutely love this game even more. With that said, it’s definitely worth a play if you enjoy isometric beat-‘em-ups.

Awesome news! The game is really fantastic, and I had an absolute blast playing it on my PS5. I never finished it because I was playing Horizon Forbidden West and Elden Ring, so this will give me the perfect excuse to complete it on the Series X.

This weekend I’m playing Chained Echoes on my Xbox Series X via Game Pass. I’m nearing the end of Act 1, and I have got to say - this game is phenomenal and deserves more attention. It’s essentially a love letter to throwback SNES JRPGs. It’s best compared to Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI in that regard.

The combat is fantastic and is always evolving in unique ways as the game progresses. There is also an overdrive meter that (admittedly some people aren’t a fan of, but I am) creates a nice strategic balance in combat. It’s one of those mechanics that really keeps each combat encounter engaging rather than spamming the same action prompt. When it comes to combat, you acquire SP points after the battle and those can be used to upgrade your skills since traditional leveling up via experience points isn’t a component in this game.

As you roam the world, you’ll collect items and come across battles that will reward you - kill this amount of enemies; receive this prize, and this will give you material to craft different gems to put into your weapon and armor to make you stronger. Everything has a propose.

Furthermore, the game offers an incredible amount of lore. The first few hours of the game creates a sense of scope, and builds on its world and characters. And, as many typical JRPG tropes do, there’s a variety of characters that have intertwined stories and they all eventually connect and create a party. However, it’s their back stories and motivations that really create more than a one note character. With that said, I wish there was more emphasis on character expressions and reactions when something occurs.

Other than that quibble, there is not much that is wrong with this game, including the great soundtrack - a must have staple in any classic JRPG. I hope more people play this game and review it. Those who have critiqued the game have praised it tremendously. It’s definitely a diamond in the ruff and a true hidden gem.

I’ve never even heard of this game but it’s on my radar now. I might have to check this one out.

@Titntin I wasn’t trying to sound rude, so I apologize if I came across that way. I was just wondering, in your opinion, what makes the gunplay not that good? Is it the controls or something deeper? I’m just curious so I can try to understand the view point of others.

@Titntin I don’t understand what makes the gunplay so poor? It plays just like any other first person shooter in my opinion. Maybe it’s just me - I simply haven’t had an issue with it, and I think it’s pretty solid with a variety of weapons that are fun to use and spice up different combinations.

The game is phenomenal. I played some of the DLC last night and it’s so, so good. I’m itching to play more tonight after work.

@GhanaViking I recommend Tiny Tina’s as well. I thoroughly enjoyed the game when it released earlier this year. As for Gotham Knights; I’ve heard it’s actually a solid game, and I will probably pick it up. I’ve been tempted by it several times, so hopefully it’ll be a fun time sink.

I’ve been on Microsoft’s side this entire time regarding this Activision/Blizzard deal; however, I find this argument of their’s silly. It is not Sony’s or the FTC’s problem that Microsoft doesn’t have as many exclusives. That’s a you problem. If you want more exclusives, tell your first party studios to make them … and make them good.

Microsoft seems to have this laid back approach to gaming which is fine, and even appealing, but they also need to be a business and knuckle down on studios who aren’t producing.

I’m a manager at my job. I’m quite laid back and I treat my employees fairly and joke around with them. That said, I’m also their boss. Sometimes, I have to have uncomfortable conversations with them if they aren’t doing their job or if their performance is slacking. That’s part of the gig. Microsoft seems to forget that part of the business.

Get your affairs in order. It’s not Sony or the FTC’s problem that you don’t have has many exclusives; that’s your problem.

1) A Plague Tale: Requiem
2) Elden Ring
3) Vampire Survivors
4) High on Life
5) Sniper Elite 5

That’s my list. Personally, I think this year, and Game Pass as well, has been fantastic. I know as a whole it’s been lacking, but I’ve played my Xbox Series X more than my Switch and PS5 this year, and that’s very uncommon.

@EvenStephen7 You should try the game out yourself. I think the game is swing and a hit.

@AstraeaV I have to agree. Over at Eurogamer, the reviewer basically stated that anyone who enjoyed this game is a “d*******”. And now, this review on this site, is essentially saying anyone who likes this game must like the comedy style or words “peepee” or “poopie”. Honestly, even though the reviewer did address other issues with the game technically and its gameplay, this is still one of the most unprofessional reviews I’ve read in recent memories.

I’m sad to hear you didn’t enjoy the game, but you make valid points. That said, your review seems so full of vitriol, similarly to Eurogamer’s review. It’s hard to read because it’s as if both reviewers are so offended by the project that it’s difficult to remain objective when anger is clouding judgments.

Personally, I’m loving the game. I’ve played 4 hours so far - two last night and two this morning - and it’s hard to put the game down. I find it humorous (albeit, it’s subjective), and the gunplay is serviceable. However, it’s the game world itself that I love. The entire concept of the game is unique and original, and that needs to be more praised. I simply want to explore every nook and cranny because of how the world is designed.

My only complaints are related to the frame rate dropping often, although it’s not too bad, and the constant barrage of dialogue from the guns, but thankfully that can be turned off.

This game is definitely an acquired taste, so the mixed reception is expected. I just hope that those who are negative on the game will at least praise it for being original and advocate for more games of that nature.

I’ve been playing High on Life and it’s a blast so far. The constant talking from the guns can be annoying, but thankfully that feature can be turned off. Overall, this is an amazing game world that I find unique, and I can’t wait to play more and have fun doing so. I love games that don’t take themselves too seriously.

I’m really hoping High on Life gets a positive reception because a lot of anticipated games this year have fallen flat. And I’ve seen several people complain about how there is not much originality in video games these days, but this game offers that in spades. It seems like it’ll be a fun(ny) and unique experience.

I just got back from my honeymoon in Cancun Friday evening, so I’m mainly recouping. If I do find the energy, it’ll be spent unpacking and cleaning up the house after all the wedding charades and decorations.

That said, I am playing Chained Echos on Xbox Game Pass. This is quite the fantastic JRPG that is highly reminiscent of classic games from the SNES era. The world and story building are wonderfully done, and the combat is also spectacular. And it’s not a great JRPG without a killer soundtrack, and this game does not disappoint. I’m really looking forward to spending more time in this well-crafted world.

Aside from that, I’ll still be doing my normal runs here and there in Vampire Survivors. And, the fact that the game is now on mobile, my addiction is only going to be further amplified.

Speaking of rouge-likes, with the announcement of Hades II, I decided to go back to an old save file of the first game and complete some more escapes. What a masterpiece of a game this is - from the well written characters, impeccable voice acting, and the sheer fun factor - I can’t wait to see what the sequel holds.

Just when I think I’m out, they pull me back in. Let’s go.

I’ll probably give this game a go once I get back from my honeymoon. All of the positive reception has given me excitement for the game.

This weekend I am playing nothing. I’m getting married today and I can’t wait.

On a side note, I did manage to beat God of War Ragnarok (PS5) on Monday. Since I had several days to spare before my wedding and honeymoon, I decided to download Vampire Survivors via Xbox Game Pass since it’s not narrative heavy. Oh, boy - I shouldn’t have.

This game is quite possibly one of, if not the most addicting game I’ve played in years. It’s mind boggling to me how a game can be so simple, able to be played with one hand, and yet provide some the most adrenaline fueled moments in recent memory. I’m excited to really dig deep into this game whenever I have more time.

This is a great announcement. On another note, are you going to make an article detailing Eastward surprise releasing on Game Pass today? That is a gem of a game that deserves a lot of attention.

Edit - You already made an article. My bad! I knew that, though - I was just testing all of you. Lol.

Woah - if this is true, this is huge. I put so many hours into Rise and Sunbreak, and I would love to do it again.

Wow, this is quite a surprise. I wasn’t expecting much from this game, but considering all of the positive reviews, I may have to pick it up. This is one of those “sleeper hits” that every year has.

I’m quite content with the games I have at the moment, and I don’t necessarily need any game out there. My next major game will most likely be The Callisto Protocol and/or High on Life. With that said, I’m tempted to buy Gotham Knights. I hear it really isn’t that bad of a game.

I’m still playing God of War Ragnarok (PS5). I’m roughly 65-70% through with the game, and clocking in at 42 hours so far. I have gotta say - this game is absolutely incredible. It continues to surprise me with new locations and tools even so late in the game, and it’s so difficult to put the controller down because I want to constantly explore. There aren’t many games that can capture my attention in such fashion, but this one has its grips on me. I believe this game is truly a masterpiece, and it’s certainly one of PlayStation’s greatest outings.

On a side note: I’m getting married next Saturday and then going on a week long honeymoon. I’m hoping I’ll be able to complete GOWR before then, and maybe even obtain the Platinum trophy. I have a feeling I won’t be able to due to working full time and working on last minute wedding stuff, but damn it, I’m gonna try. Lol.

@PJOReilly I’ll let you know! This is a game I’ll be playing mainly cooperatively so I don’t think it’ll get repetitive due to just having a good time with a buddy and whatnot. That said, I will probably try out the game by myself at some point and see how it stands out in that regard.

This is one of the lowest scoring reviews out there, but that’s okay - everyone is entitled to their opinions. Nonetheless, I’m going to buy it tomorrow because everything I’m reading sounds fantastic. Sometimes, you just need to turn your brain off and enjoy a game for the fun of it - and with it being fully coop, that sells it even more for me.

Evil West is a must buy for me. I really can’t wait to dive into that with a buddy.