Kraven

Sea of Stars is easily my indie GOTY.

It has been such a phenomenal year for games that I forgot Wo Long even came out this year. Thanks for reminding me that I need to go back and replay the game, and actually beat it!

I voted Alan Wake 2, but BG3 and FFXVI can take the #1 spot and I’ll agree with it. What this list tells me is that this year has been incredible for games.

RE4 may just be the best remake ever made in my opinion. It’s superb on every level. As for Capcom’s other #1 spot — I wish I was good at fighting games. It’s very fun, but me and games like that are simply not compatible.

This weekend I’m playing Kingdoms of Amular: Re-Reckoning (the remastered version). Somehow, I managed to overlook the original when it released back in 2012 — I was probably consumed by Skyrim. Who wasn’t? But I’m here now and that’s all that matters.

This game is just phenomenal, and may be one of the best RPGs ever made (for me personally). Currently, I got wrapped up in The Teeth of Naros DLC, and it’s been great. I didn’t realize it was downloadable content and I’m not even a quarter of the way through the base game.

Now, don’t get me wrong - as a remaster it’s poorly done, but as a video game it’s very special. Some people might complain that it’s dated, but if you look at its developmental history, which was taking place probably back in 2008 or 2009, it is quite the achievement.

The story is your typical trite in terms of RPGs, but it’s the over-world that’s plastered with environmental stories that brings the world to life. And the game is very dialogue heavy — a typical component in any well realized RPG — and is all fully voiced, adding more texture to it all.

I like how all towns have their own personal stories and hardships they are going through. There are certain conflicts within the confines of their town and it makes it worthwhile to learn about them. Sometimes, it can be daunting maintaining who is who and what is what, but it’s not entirely overwhelming. That brings me to the adventure itself.

I’m thoroughly enjoying the quests. The side stories, although they typically end in the same fashion, are written beautifully. There is a plethora of quests that have made me genuinely laugh and subvert my expectations. And if you like to get the most out of your RPGs, there are several factions that you can join - i.e.; Thieves Guild; Warsworn; Mage, and so forth. It’s designed like Skyrim in that regard.

However, where the game shines brightest is its combat. My goodness; what a system that is under-utilized in not only modern ARPGs, but action games in general. It plays like the original God of War trilogy and Dragon’s Dogma, all the while forging its own identity.

There is so much build variety with weapons, armor, and classes. You are not bogged down by a weight limit or stamina meter, or even a particular class. The game is all about experimentation. Want to be a warrior? Check. Want to be a rogue? Go for it. How about a mage? Absolutely. Better yet, how about being all three? The world is at your oyster and you can play however you like regardless of your skill level.

My only two complaints are: Inventory and density. The game has a loot system similarly to Diablo — you’re constantly picking up new weapons, armors and items, but your backpack can only carry 70 things. Trying to balance everything is a pain. You can upgrade your inventory but it has a minimal effect.

As for density, the game features a myriad of side quests in close proximity to every location you’re at. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it can become cumbersome when you’re trying to focus on a single quest and get side tracked by talking to NPCs — but that could be my OCD kicking in.

I absolutely loved Blasphemous 2. It’s a shame it didn’t get more buzz and/or word of mouth because it’s a spectacular game. Also, I’m glad to see Sea of Stars get some love. I thought the pacing dragged a bit near the end, but overall it was brilliant.

I get it — Spider-Man 2 is a first party exclusive which has lacked this year, and it’s a PlayStation centric website, so it’s bound to win GOTY. With that being said, I don’t think the game deserves that prestigious title this year. I won’t go into reasons why since it’s technically subjective.

With that being said, I wholeheartedly disagree with SM2 winning best soundtrack. Listen to that and then FFXVI and tell me which one is objectively better. Nevertheless, that’s just my two cents.

Alan Wake 2 is one of the best experiences I’ve played in a game before. It was so atmospheric, and the art direction and cinematography was out of this world. I’m so glad I platinumed the game. I’ll have to jump into NG+ soon.

I’m excited for the game, but I’m hoping that there will be enough variety to separate it from being NiOh, but in a different setting. The fatigue with these types of games are starting to settle in with me; only a few games of this nature can genuinely capture my attention. Here’s hoping this game is one of them — it looks great!

I’m glad to see Lies of P get some love! That’s my personal GOTY. Also, you have great taste in games. As for your number one pick being BG3 — you are totally right. There are going to be so many RPGs that try to emulate what Larian accomplished, and to that I say good luck.

Pretty solid games! I have yet to try Bomb Rush Cyberfunk but it’s on my list of games to play soon. And as for your #1 pick — you can’t go wrong with it. RE4 is easily one of the best games released this year.

My top games I’ve played this year are:

1) Lies of P

2) Alan Wake 2

3) Baldur’s Gate 3

4) RE4 Remake

5) Octopath Traveler 2

Honorable mentions include Cyberpunk 2077; Metroid Prime Remastered; Dead Space Remake; The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom; Red Dead Redemption Remastered; Final Fantasy 16; Spider-Man 2; and lastly, Sea of Stars.

Yesterday I got the platinum trophy for Terminator Resistance: Enhanced Edition on the PS5. I recently got the platinum trophy for Teyon’s RoboCop: Rogue City as well. I really enjoyed the latter and wanted to give their previous game a shot. I’m so glad I did. And I have a lot to say, so apologies for the long diatribe.

To me, Resistance has the best Terminator story since T2, which isn’t a hard thing to accomplish but it’s still worth noting. The characters are intriguing, and there are some role-playing elements, albeit shallow, that really provide world building and depth to characters. There are dialogue options that really expound on backstories in ways I wasn’t expecting a AA game in this franchise to do.

The game also has that PS3/Xbox 360-era feel. It reminds me of the Resistance and Metro games in terms of gunplay and atmosphere. There are decayed buildings, underground safe havens, and people trying to survive a futile world.

One aspect I like is exploration. I am a big fan of games that are separated by different levels and feature a semi-open world to scavenge. There are notes littered about that provide world building to the barren wasteland and the inhabitants that once lived there. And there’s always something rewarding — for example; a very powerful sniper rifle was in an abandoned building behind a locked door that you can pick.

I’ve always preferred games to have a more linear structure. It’s a great way of keeping things constrained so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the difficult of some of the enemies, such as the T-800s and T-47s.

Lastly, the OST is phenomenal, from the track playing in the main menu screen all the way to the tension filled moments when T-800s are sprawled out throughout the environments. The music feels futuristic, and adds a sense of dread and adrenaline that meshes into a perfect harmony that feels like Terminator.

Now, the game isn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination. Graphically, there’s a lot to be desired. Textures are muddy, and character models aren’t the best. The voice acting is also not too great; it seems rushed a lot, with poor lip syncing and facial animations. The writing is actually quite good, but the execution in how it’s delivered falls flat.

Another gripe is the amount of resources you find. Although I love exploring and scavenging for items, there seems to be an over abundance of it. Its novelty wears thin after a while. And with resources comes crafting — a system that I enjoy but is quite shallow at its core. The weapon upgrade mechanic is cool, but it’s way too limited. I would have loved to see it expand to all weapons such as being able to create scopes, lasers, silencers, or terminator knives to attach on your weapon to act as a bayonet.

Regardless of my few minor grievances, this game is an underrated gem. I wonder what Teyon has next up their sleeve because they are a solid studio. In fact, it would be great to see Sony acquire them because they deserve to create games with a bigger budget. Their love for the 80s and early 90s shines super bright, and I can only imagine what they are capable of when given the right opportunity.

Now THIS is a heck of a lineup of games. I’ll definitely be downloading at least five on the list, if not more.

I’ve read several reviews from outlets and writers I trust and they have all praised this game. It sounds like this is a very solid game, and I’ll probably pick it up.

I got to the start of Act 3 and then put the game down after about 90 hours. I think I’ll definitely restart the game completely from scratch and replay this masterpiece. I’m still romancing Shadowheart, though — that will never change.

Golden Axe and Shinobi — I’m definitely excited for this. I’m not sure how I feel about SoR in a 3D space, but I’ll give it a try nonetheless.

I’m fine with more semi-open world areas instead of a vastly open space. I think more games should focus on being constrained and tight experiences; not every game, mind you, but a lot.

@themightyant I think Chained Echoes is sublime! And without giving away any spoilers, I think the ending sticks the landing, and all of the stories get wrapped up in some form or another from each individual character.

@mac_da_man I’ve constantly been debating myself over AC Mirage. I might have to pick it up. How hard was the platinum?

@homelesscretin Wow - I haven’t heard about this game in a long time. Great choice - the game is fantastic!

This weekend I’ll be out of town. Last Sunday was my one year anniversary with my wife, and even though we celebrated, my gift is taking place this weekend. I have a surprise Christmas oriented trip for us planned.

As for what I’ve played throughout the week, I completed my New Game run in Lies of P and got the “best” ending. I’m currently working on NG+ and should get the platinum trophy.

Surprisingly, I’m still enthralled just as much as I was from the beginning. And since I never replay games unless it’s years down the line, I think that says something. I also don’t have to fight the Nameless Puppet anymore, so that’s a huge plus. Overall, LoP has solidified itself as my GOTY.

I also purchased RoboCop: Rogue City, and it’s definitely AA at its finest. It’s arcade-y, totally late 80s, features a plethora of quirky one-liners, and actually not half bad. It’s the epitome of a 6-7/10 game. The game is a total fan service, and if you’re not a fan of the franchise I wouldn’t recommend it. Personally, I’m enjoying the game so much I decided to buy Terminator Resistance since the enhanced edition is on sale.

The game operates best when you’re in tight spaces and corridors, primarily because Old Detroit seems more alive. There are buildings overrun by “criminal scum”, and walls littered with graffiti and bullet holes. It reminds me of Fallout 3, with its color palette and moment to moment gunplay which is quite visceral.

I was hoping to have the game beaten before leaving on my trip, but that didn’t pan out. I tend to play games very slow and diligently — searching every nook and cranny, and not sprinting to objective after objective, so the game is taking me longer than your average person. With that being said, all I have to do is finish the main story and I’ll get the platinum trophy.

I bought it and have it downloaded! I’m gone this weekend but it’s on my list to play when I get back.

For free DLC, this sounds great. It sounds similar to Returnal in its game/story design.

This is awesome news! I’m not sure when I’ll go back to the game — maybe early January, but it’ll give me an excuse to replay the game and obtain the platinum trophy.

I actually decided to buy Terminator Resistance Enhanced Edition. I’m currently playing RoboCop Rogue City and thoroughly enjoying it, so I figured I’d give their previous game a try. I hear solid things about it, and I watched a review earlier this morning that really sold me on the game.

It’s awesome seeing so many people put Lies of P in their GOTY discussion. I’m glad people are loving it just as much as I do.

For me personally, I’ve bounced around a lot. It’s been a toss up between Octopath Traveler 2, Alan Wake 2, BG3, and many more. However; my pick has to be Lies of P.

I won’t go into a huge rant as to why, but I’ll give a simple answer (again, it’s a personal opinion): I never replay games unless it’s years down the line, and even then I still may not. That’s usually due to burnout, or feeling like I did everything I wanted to with the game, regardless of a platinum trophy or not. With LoP, I immediately started a new game. I’m now at the very final (optional) boss in NG, and I plan on doing a NG+ to get the platinum. I’m not even remotely burned out which is shocking. For that fact alone, LoP is my official GOTY.

I think this is fantastic. I played the game for the first time with the 2.0 update and loved every minute of the game — I even got the platinum. However, I didn’t jump into the PL expansion. This will be the perfect excuse to boot the game back up.

I won’t be gaming much this weekend. My one year anniversary with my wife is Sunday, so we are going to enjoy the weekend together alone since our kiddo is gone. Next weekend I have a surprise trip planned for us, so that’s should be a blast.

Whenever I get the chance I’ll probably be playing Octopath Traveler II. It’s one of my favorite games released this year. Originally, I played it on the Switch and finished every story except for two characters. I picked it up on the PS5 because it was on sale. My goal is to play it to completion and earn the platinum trophy.

I also completed Lies of P — an absolute masterpiece, in my opinion. The final (optional) boss, Nameless Puppet, was a pain in my rear end for a hot minute. I readjusted my level(s) and killed him on the first attempt. I said it last week, but I think it stands toe to toe with Bloodborne.

Right now, I’m chipping away at NG+. I’m halfway through my second play through and I restarted it yesterday. I never immediately replay a game after I beat it, so that’s a testament to how much I adore LoP. I’m hoping to get the Platinum trophy on my third playthrough (I’m dreading the final boss fight already). I had one trophy glitch(?) on me only because I performed a very minimal task correctly, but out of order.

And I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but that post credits scene was fantastic. I’m definitely excited for the future of this franchise, which is undoubtedly getting a sequel. The stories available to tell are endless.

I’m very curious about Avatar. The setting seems really interesting, but I’m not sure I can deal with the typical UbiSoft formula. I’ll wait for reviews before I make a decision.

I’ll for sure be getting TLOU pt 2.

I’ve been ready for this game for a hot minute. Hopefully, a release date is imminent.

This is very exciting. Their reveal trailers are always a memorable moment in the gaming space.

If acquisitions are going to happen, Neowiz would be a fantastic get. For being their second game — maybe something you’d actually consider their first — Lies of P was a phenomenal achievement. And with the inevitable DLC and sequel, they have plenty of stories left in the tank.

I’m not interested in any of these games, but it does seem like a solid month. You’ll hear no complaints from me!

I never played this back in the day but I for sure will now. I hope the release is soon!

It looks fantastic, and I’m a sucker for these games since I grew up with the (S)NES, PS1 and what have you. That said, it doesn’t look as if it’s trying to tell a (well written) story. That might be a bit off putting for me — but gameplay is king at the end of the day, and combat looks really fun.

Good luck to the Bloober Team - but I don’t have high hopes or expectations for this game considering their last couple of offerings.

This weekend I’m still playing the brilliant Lies of P. I’m going to challenge myself and get the platinum trophy. If I had to give an estimate, I’d say 90% through the game. So far, I’ve completed all available side quests, hunted down all trinity key(s) and locations, as well as the collectibles.

To be honest, I might even consider this an “all-timer” — even going so far as having it stand shoulder to shoulder to Bloodborne. It takes the best elements from Bloodborne and Sekiro, and creates its own identity. Sure, FromSoftware might have invented, or at least perfected the genre, particularly with its gameplay that feels tightly focused, but Lies of P has the best of both worlds.

Meanwhile, it tells a coherent story that’s full of intrigue, but not obscure. To tell a lie or truth to certain characters really add a fascinating depth to its overall narrative. And with its story, there’s a fully rich world that’s interconnected similarly to its admirations, and it’s executed very well.

This game is just exceptional. The 1 million copies sold is well deserved, too. I know I’m not finished with it, but I’m already excited for its upcoming DLC. And I don’t typically do NG+, but I simply need more of this game.

I’m all for this remaster personally. I’m not sure if the Lost Levels will be incorporated into the main story — but even if they aren’t, I’m okay with seeing how the game evolved from those outtakes. As much as I love the game, I did find the pacing during that certain moment a little rushed, maybe for shock value. I was hoping for more character development in that area. Regardless, this game is a 10/10 masterpiece, and I’m all for replaying the game and getting the platinum trophy again.

It might not be a PS Vita 2, but it’ll have to do. I really want one, but unfortunately they are sold out everywhere. Plus, my wife would kill me if I ordered it, but she’ll forgive me eventually.

The best of luck to his next endeavor(s). He definitely left on a high note — Returnal is a phenomenal gaming experience.

This week, or last Sunday to be exact, I got the platinum trophy for Alan Wake 2 — my current GOTY. It’s easily one of the best survival horror games in the last decade, and that’s saying something considering the first entry was more action adventure with some campy horror elements intertwined. It’s such a drastic duo that stays true to its roots as a premise. I believe this will be a game that will be talked about for many years to come.

While I was waiting for Super Mario RPG to release, I decided to play Lies of P. I don’t typically have the patience anymore for a Soulsborne or Soulslike as I used to — even going as far as getting the platinum for Bloodborne and Dark Souls 2 — but this game has me hooked.

I’m only four hours in and I’ve beaten the Mad Donkey and Scrapped Watchmen. So far, the game is really good. I love the Victorian-esque world of Krat. It’s original but also clearly inspired by Bloodborne. The environmental story telling is fantastic, and I love picking up newspaper clippings that draw you into its world by saying a lot with minimal text.

Your character being Pinocchio is really fascinating as well. The truth or lie system is very clever mechanic. I’ve already had to make a decision in a side quest that had me thinking if I did the right thing or not. And I’ve answered a phone call that unexpectedly gave me a timed riddle. Thankfully, I got the correct answer and was handsomely rewarded. I’m curious to see how all of this pays off in the overarching story.

I do have two minor gripes, though. First is the inventory system, particularly the quick slot menu. It’s a great idea, but poorly executed. I’d prefer to have all four directional buttons be of use in hastily situations rather than up and down. Instead, I feel as if I’m constantly rearranging my load-out which is breaking my immersion.

My other niggle is the speed of combat. The timing of your dodge and block mechanic seems slightly off — maybe by just a split second, but it’s enough to make a difference. And similar to Steel Rising — a game I thoroughly enjoyed — the enemies and combat are janky but it’s designed that way due to the characters being puppets/machines.

Speaking of combat, the weapons are really cool. I love how you can mix and match various blades and handles to customize a weapon to your choosing — it adds a sense of creativity that blends well with the entire puppeteer theme. I can’t wait to customize my build with the P-Quartz. The possibilities seem robust.

Overall, Lies of P is really good. I can see why the praise has been practically universal. It isn’t perfect, but it has a lot of interesting ideas and originality to standout from other Soulsborne games. Maybe I’ll make this my next platinum trophy.

I honestly don’t care if the game is $70.00 — it’s an instant buy for me. I have the platinum for both games and I’ll definitely replay this and get the platinum once again. The first one is my favorite game of all time, and the second one is just in a league of its own. Hopefully, they will make more games set in this universe because there are so many stories that could be told. I’d love a DLC of Ish at some point, or even a standalone game.

Even in numbers, a weakling is a weakling still!

I did not buy one but I do want one quite a bit. I’m typically a homebody, and between October - June I generally watch the NBA at night time when I get off work. This device would be perfect for me to play on the couch as I watch basketball. My wife keeps telling me I can’t get one, but I think I still will and deal with her consequences later. Lol.

I wonder if this is the game Capcom keeps referring to when they say they have another game lined up soon that will sell millions. We all think it’s a Resident Evil or Monster Hunter game, which is the logical choice, but this game will also do that I believe.

I’m content with this list — a list that’s full of great games, with some notably off. I think it’s been one of, if not the greatest year for video games. My personal pick is Alan Wake 2. It has an incredible narrative and is genre defining, and introduces a new protagonist that is very memorable. With that said, I have no doubt Baldur’s Gate 3 will win the ultimate prize, and that’s perfectly okay too. My only gripe with the game is that I feel it becomes disjointed in its 3rd act, and falls apart quite a bit. Regardless of what game wins, I think as gamers we have all won this year.

This weekend I’m finishing up Alan Wake 2 for the PS5. I’m on my way to the platinum trophy, with all collectibles obtained. My focus now is leisurely completing the main story and I should be set.

As of right now it’s my GOTY. I believe it’s in a league of its own and has officially stamped Remedy into legendary status. I would compare them to Naughty Dog (to me) and Kojima in that regard. They should have free rein to do whatever they want because of their creativity.

And just when I think games can’t shake things up in originality, Remedy comes along to remind me that it’s still possible. How they are able to pump out consistent titles at a frequent volume is astonishing. The best way to describe it is simply Nintendo-esque.

Speaking of Nintendo, I’m slowly chipping away in Super Mario Bros. Wonder. I’m presently on the 5th world, and have managed to procure all Wonder Seeds minus a small handful. I’ve also unlocked secret locations that provide really fun challenges. I love how there are secrets everywhere — not just in the actual levels themselves, but in the over world as well. Wonder definitely harkens back to my favorite Mario game, Super Mario World.

Next up on my list: Super Mario RPG. I can’t wait for its release next Friday.

I don’t see the need for a slim when I already own a PS5. This new sku doesn’t even seem to be much of a change in length/width. I’ll probably wait for a PS5 Pro, but even then I don’t know if I’ll buy it because I’m quite content with what I have. I can see people buying this model if it’s their first PS5, so hopefully people will be able to snag one up for Christmas!