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I had high expectations for this one and came away very pleased. Valve remains unmatched in creating well-paced games that intermingle story with gameplay in a way that is more cohesive and engaging than anything else out there. I was quite pleased at their ability to introduce new characters that are just as interesting as Glados. The game never got stale, and while the co-op could be a frustrating affair, it is one of the more unique multiplayer experiences available out there.
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There are few games that can suck up time so ravenously as Skyrim. Once engaged in playing this game, I find it difficult to pull away. There is just so much to do and even a task as simple as moving to a new location is rife with exciting random encounters. Add to that a vastly improved leveling system and at least passably interesting story bits, and you have a winner.
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This was an unexpected hit for me. This is one of the few games this year that was able to grip me with the story. The superb facial animations were a great example of how next-gen technology can actually enhance the experience rather than merely provide pretty things to look at. The actual game part was solid and a welcome change of pace from the typical shooter-infested market. Let's hope for a sequel, albeit with less studio controversy.
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This is certainly just more of the same, but I have to admit that this does not bother me in the slightest. In a year of derivative sequels, this one stands apart by virtue of being based upon a game already so far ahead of competitors that it will take a while longer to grow stale.
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This game provided the best on-couch multiplayer experience of the year. Rapier wit, outlandish question setups, and hilarious Poopsie and Mayonnaise dreams all come together to create quite the entertainment package. Trivia is back!
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This is everything a downloadable game should be. It is not excessively long, it provides some unique ideas, is quick and easy to get into, and provides many reasons to come back. The narration is the most obvious hook, although I feel like it became a lot less relevant to my on-screen actions after the first level. I enjoyed the upgrade system in that it allowed me to select specific "perks" rather than requiring a focus on abstract stats. The weapon variety is excellent and allows for a large variety of combinations depending on one's preferred play style.
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I had mixed feelings about this one going in. I expected a roller coaster ride and that is what I got. Sure, it seemed like the game was playing for me at times, and I grew a bit weary of the ground repeatedly falling out from under me and Drake nearly missing jumps. However, I'd be lying if I said I didn't have a hell of a time with the game.
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Currently playing
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It's crazy how Ubisoft manages to create such an enjoyable experience year after year. I don't know how much longer this series can continue on in this fashion. It is getting increasingly derivative, and a lot of the added mini-games seem more like fluffy distractions than enjoyable playing experiences, but the core game remains of high quality. I wish the same could be said for the narrative.
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