Recent reviews by justMANGO

(Preface, I have not played any of the previous games.) Super nostalgic throwback for anyone who was in high school when Facebook was the hottest thing on the block. Everything from the UI down to the social interactions is dead on perfect. Characters and dialogue were well written and believable, and I found myself quickly investing in the story and the people involved.

I'm torn about recommending this game. On the one hand, the nostalgic throwback was enjoyable, the writing and the characters have a lot going for it. But on the other hand, there's a huge problem with the inherent game design.

The game forces you to play it twice to get a good ending. There are two romantic interests, and whoever you go with on your first playthrough, you are predetermined to fail your relationship with her regardless of your choices, and on your second, you can only succeed with the other. Which means, if you want to to succeed with your preferred girl, you have to either: 1) know a head of time to do your first playthrough with the character you're less interested in (or not at all interested); or 2) edit your save file after completing the first playthrough. (Save file editing is only an option if you made the correct set of choices on your first playthrough, as far as I'm aware. If you didn't, then good luck, you have to actually play through it again.) I went into the game blind, as I do all games that I don't want spoilers for, and was thus left feeling very defeated despite knowing that I was as decent a human being as I could have possibly been. Realizing (after looking at ending guides) that I could edit my safe file to get the ending that I believe I deserved completely destroyed the immersion and impact of the game.

For a game that presents itself as a choice-based narrative, and one that emphasizes the themes of being a decent human--not gaslighting or emotionally manipulating people--the game design itself is extremely manipulative by rendering choices meaningless. A player who behaved like a good, moral human being should be awarded for their good behaviour. But no, the morally decent player gets gaslit by the love interest--and by extension, the game designers.

I really want to recommend this game. I really do, especially because it's such a polished nostalgic gem. But Steam only has a "yes/no" option, so it'll have to be a "no" because the forced ending problem is entirely contrary to the game's core message and design philosophy. That said, I probably will still recommend it to people who would enjoy a throwback trip to 2008 with a VN-style dating sim, but I'd also preface my recommendation with the huge caveat as noted above, even at the expense of somewhat spoiling the ends.

(Trust me, I've played a million hours of this off Steam.) A fast-paced, adrenaline filled 2D action platformer that packs a good punch and a load of humour. Broforce offers a wide variety of characters ("bros"), each with their own arsenal of traits and skills. Characters are randomized on death/respawn, so you'll be left to make the best of whatever you've got. The stength of characters are well balanced despite the vast attack differences; no character is weaker than others. Most enenimes are one-shot kills (as are you), but those that are not demand a more tactical approach. Enemy deaths happen very quickly, but each death is extremely satisfying. Bosses and minibosses can pose a difficult challenge (unless you've played the game millions of times, in which case you still die a lot anyway). The sound, visual and tactile (when using a controller) feedback is extremely impactful, and the music really adds to the atmosphere. Be prepared for explosion-filled thrill ride. Highly recommended regardless of whether you're a solo gamer, or want to have a run with friends.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration at all to say that Bastion is one of the best indie titles ever created. The dynamically constructing environment combined with a smooth stream of narration will give you a unique sense of unfolding; it's something you'd never find in any other game. Two of the biggest shining points are the fabulous hand-painted style and the amazing soundtrack that never feels out of place. In fact, the art and the music makes the game such a masterpiece, it deserves to be hung in the Louvre if a frame could put around it. The story is well-developed and well-delivered. The heartfelt emotion conveyed by the brilliant narration is touching beyond words can describe; you'll have to experience it yourself. The gameplay is silky smooth, challenging but not too difficult. The unique selection of weapons and boosting spirits sets the mechanics of the game apart from all others. All things considered, Bastion can easily score 9/10.

A fan of fast paced platformer with fluid controls? A supporter of indie titles? Big on dark and meaty (bloodly, really) humour? Like good music? Appreciate cartoon-styled art? Well then, have no fear! Super meatboy is here! This games packs all of the things mentioned above and much more, and I assure you that you'll find it more addicting than anything you've ever played. I'd give it three thumbs up if I had three thumbs.