Sony’s efforts to experiment with new ideas, specifically with downloadable games, have allowed it to branch out from tradition in some remarkable ways. Rain, the new game from the grand experiment known as PlayStation C.A.M.P, comes from the team behind echochrome and the recent Tokyo Jungle. It follows the same mold as those games in an attempt to create something new out of something familiar. While Rain, unlike previous efforts under that brand, is more about presenting an atmospheric story, it still introduces some compelling (and unusual) mechanics, which hook you right from the start. READ MORE
There is no denying the cult status of the original Disgaea, and its lovable cast of characters is no small part of that legacy. Laharl, Etna and Flonne are names that will instantly paint a smile on any fan’s face. Some would even argue that the subsequent titles in the series never harnessed the same energy as the first.
So here we are, ten years later, with Disgaea D2: A Brighter Darkness, a direct sequel to the first game that takes great pride in bringing the old gang back to the forefront. It is an exciting (albeit predictable) move for the franchise, but I cannot help but wonder if NIS ever gave us a chance to really miss these characters in the first place. READ MORE
Few series have new releases as highly anticipated as Rockstar’s Grand Theft Auto franchise. A lot has happened since the last GTA game, including newcomers to the open-world genre and former competitors that have gone off in their own directions. Grand Theft Auto V, however, is out to demonstrate how sticking to and expanding on an already proven formula can work.
READ MORE
Kingdom Hearts is a concept that ostensibly shouldn’t work, but does anyway. It’s not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but the level of care and love that went into crafting it is so apparent that you simply can’t help but succumb to its charms at least a little. That said, the game is starting to show its age over 11 years since its initial release, and now is as good of a time as any to give the title a fresh coat of paint. READ MORE
When you think of traditional platformers, you most likely think of games designed with tight controls and level design created specifically to test your abilities. The game might have a distinct style or pleasant visuals, but those are far from the elements that are focused on the most. Puppeteer, the new game from Sony’s Japan Studio, wants to change that. Focusing less on spectacular gameplay and more on presenting a world full color and imagination, Puppeteer tends to value style over its gameplay hooks, for better or worse.
READ MORE
