Reviews

With a massive world map to explore, an engaging turn-based combat system, and plenty of deep interconnected systems, SpellForce: Conquest of Eo is a shining example of a spin-off done right.

Inkulinati's tactical and strategic depth is equaled by its clever use of medieval marginalia as inspiration for both art, setting, and gameplay. Come for the exploding bean monsters and donkey butt horns, stay for the tricky turn-based combat.

A fun little tragicomic narrative adventure game, Backfirewall_ gets a lot of things right with its vibrant environments, apt audio tracks, and authentic characters. The only thing holding back this brief but bombastic game is a slow start to the story and its easy puzzles. An excellent choice for gaming beginners, or people looking for a relaxing way to wind down.

While it's a tad too linear and light on gameplay, its great art style, engaging story, and innovative dialogue system make Pentiment worthy of your attention.

Vengeful Guardian: Moonrider might be a throwback to the 80s and 90s, and wears its inspirations on its sleeves, but there is a lot more to it than just nostalgia. While Moonrider has flaws, and is a very short experience, it is one worth experiencing for anyone with a fondness for classic platformers and grungy aesthetics.

Legends of Amberland: The Forgotten Crown may fall a bit short of the Might and Magic series that so clearly inspired it, but the fresh ideas it brings to the table allow it to stand on its own and provide plenty of entertainment.

With terrible, nigh-unplayable gameplay, a story that could generously be called so bad it's good, and uninspired art direction, Kukoos: Lost Pets is an ugly slog of a game, fit for Worst of the Year accolades. These pets should be put to sleep.

Even after graduating from early access, Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord doesn't feel finished, and as a result you'll have to dig through a heap of half-baked systems in order to get to the otherwise excellent core gameplay underneath.

The Knight Witch is a great mashup of two popular genres (Metroidvanias and bullet hell games), with fun and exciting action that keeps you on your toes. The story and likable characters further help enhance the experience.