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The Last of Us Part II represents one of the crowning achievements of the PS4’s life cycle, one of, it not the best game of the entire generation and for a game that I felt didn’t even need a sequel to begin with, it’s testament to what an amazing game it truly is for me. I stress that point because I know there are those that will disagree, but to me the story is equal parts engaging and harrowing, unmissable and also hard to watch, even the characters are at odds with one another, furthering the razor-sharp tension and juxtapositions. Having decided on a media blackout, I managed to remain unspoiled for what was to come. The story hit all of its marks, taking me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from start to finish, leaving me toward the end, begging for the futile pursuit of vengeance to stop. It is a fantastic sequel that builds on every masterstroke of the original. Amazing graphics, gameplay, acting, sound design, level design, narrative and accessibility. It really is a 10 out of 10 for me and easily, my pick for game of the year.
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Having played through the entire Yakuza from August - December, I was ready to see for myself how an open world beat em up transitions not only to a completely new gameplay style, but also away from its original and beloved main protagonist, Kiryu. Any doubt I had was quickly cast aside and my admiration for the Yakuza series continues to be unyielding. The changes in gameplay are so well realised it leaves you wondering if Ryu Ga Gotoku will continue walking this path or return to the beat em ups of old. I'd be invested either way. There are mini games here that I've put more time and effort into then other full priced, triple A games. The characters are all so well realised and the party and turn based combat are a joy. I'm close to 40 hours in and doubt I'm even half way done with this fantastic game.
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Having been in early access, Hade's got its official release this year. Even in early access it was a brilliant, well polished and addictive game that instilled that 'one more try' attitude for escaping the underworld. Each new area almost always sending you right back to the start to continue to hone your skills and marvel at your own progress. Challenges of prior escapes would become easier with repetition, knowledge would bring stronger and more reliable builds from the countless powers bestowed by the wonderfully realised Gods of Olympus. A fantastic experience.
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I grew up with Streets of Rage. I rented Streets of Rage 2 enough times as a kid that I could have very easily bought and owned my own copy, its a series near and dear to my heart. The same can be said for everyone involved in the development of Streets of Rage 4. This is a literal love letter to the series across the board. The combat is smooth and fluid, building upon and harking back to the originals at the same time, the art style and animation is gorgeous, and the soundtrack is perfect.
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The ever evolving formula for Assassin's Creed builds upon the success of Origins and Odyssey and reaches a new height with Valhalla. Stripped away are the ten thousand near identical weapons and armour, gone is (at least some of) the icon soup that plagued the map and in its place is a more streamlined and accessible entry into the series. The map is a joy to explore, rewarding time spent with resources to build up the homestead or improve your character build and the story is engaging with just enough player choice to warrant the RPG element of the title.
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I'd never played a final fantasy game. Growing up, I remember classmates talking about Cloud and how amazing the game was, but at that time it just hadn't appealed. Fast forward to a demo of remake, and I was interested enough to pick up and dive into my first FF. And what a game to choose, amazing visuals, awesome combat, I was in awe of the story unfolding before me. The only issue is...it's not finished, and with no clear timeframe in sight its a little frustrating not being able to continue on the journey (unless I kick it old school on a PS1). Also, never and I mean NEVER, mess with a Tonberry.
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Much like Yakuza, Gears also decided it was time for a change this year with the release of Gears Tactics. The heart and soul of Gears is still found beating strong within the chest of this title but the cover based shooter shines bright as it makes the leap to top down / turn based combat.
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Although short, the time spent with Jill Valentine in Raccoon City is a thrilling cinematic and well polished experience that builds on the success of the Resident Evil 2 remake. Worth a look but not at full price.
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