Recent reviews by BotheredBeaver

The FromSoft Souls games are notorious for their difficult, yet rewarding gameplay and challenges. Out of all the games in their catalogue so far, Sekiro (to me) is the one that most effectively provides the player with a sense of fulfillment and mastery over both the enemies and game systems. Rather than providing the player with a vast array of different weapons, magic, and builds for overcoming obstacles, Sekiro provides the player with a more limited, yet deep and mechanically intensive tool set that will you will have to master effectively to prevail. It's as if you and the boss have similar levels of strength, you just need to learn to realize yours. Easily one of my favorite Souls-like games.

Despite this games rough launch (which should be rightly criticized) the game has gone through some substantial changes over the past few years to help make it into the game that many desired. While there are still bugs that remain, and some fundamental design choices that can't be easily fixed (such as lack of choice and consequence in certain parts of the game) this game is one of the few to truly make the most of the genre of big budget open world RPGs. With one of the most stylized and detailed open worlds, Night City is one of the most immersive locations I've ever seen in a game. Gameplay has drastically improved with the recent 2.0 update allowing for more diverse builds and the usage of various new cyberware and perks. The story however might be what truly made this game so special to me. The diverse, well-written cast of characters and one of the most human and introspective narratives I've played in recent years stuck with me for a long time after I first played. Both the base game and the expansion, Phantom Liberty, are definitely worth experiencing now if you have the systems to run it.

One of the most satisfying puzzle games I've ever played. An engaging mystery with supernatural elements and a unique system for putting together the true fates of the crew aboard the ship. Lacks replayability with it being a puzzle game (once you know the story and the fates all of the mystery and challenge goes away) but that doesn't matter as the experience of the first playthrough is unforgettable. Wish there were more games like this one.

Great blend of hack and slash and bullet hell mechanics. Some bosses can be a bit tedious on the harder difficulty but otherwise a very unique and colorful lineup of bosses that test your understanding of the different mechanics. Story is purposefully vague at times allowing you to piece together the narrative on your own but delivers a powerful and satisfying conclusion. The jailer is the key, kill him and you will be free.