Recent reviews by The Dogfather

Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series

Delightful remake of the first two Klonoa games, Klonoa: Door to Phantomile (from the PlayStation 1 era) and its sequel Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil - which is still one of the PlayStation 2's most highly rated games with a Metacritic score of 94 at launch. I fondly remember playing both at the time so I was delighted that Namco's furry mascot was getting a new lease on life on all modern platforms for his 25th anniversary.

What surprised me the most about both games was how well they both hold up considering they came out between 1997 and 2001. Platformers have seen a creative renaissance over the intervening years thanks to the budding indie scene, so it was surprising to see both hold up so well against the more modern games in the genre.

To say both games in the collection have aged beautifully is an understatement and this is only amplified by the loving restoration done by Monkeycraft on these lost platforming relics so that hopefully an entire new generation can discover them. If sales are buoyant enough, hopefully then there is the possibility we see a third mainline entry into the series. Simple yet delightful to play, Klonoa Phantasy Reverie Series is gorgeous visually, oozes charm, has clever level design that often allows the player to approach it from various angles, and is a winner for fans of the genre. Recommended.

Delightfully quirky platformer

None experienced during my playthrough

Crash Bandicoot, Spyro the Dragon, Sonic the Hedgehog

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869453510

Tactical misstep

Tactical RPG that lacks depth. Your hero and party move along a board-based grid system automatically attacking enemies and objects as they approach. For a tactical RPG, I found the gameplay far too simple and repetitive and the unimpressive graphics failed to sustain my interest further. Its low price tag should entice some but there just isn't enough meat on this games bones to attract lovers of the genre.

Unimpressive given the games title.

None experienced during my playthrough.

Dwarves: Glory, Death and Loot, Wartales, Spelllforce III

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869455135

Spacedot

A very simple time killer with generated music. You assume the role of a white dot in space and have to carefully manoeuvre your way around a series of comets and meteors without getting hit or its game over. This is the sort of game you would have played on your ATARI 400 back in the day so don't expect detailed graphics or complex game mechanics. Game comes with three modes (survival, time challenge, endless) but I found it too simple and boring to sustain much interest. I guess if you are looking for something zen-like or perhaps a palate cleanser between other games you could try this one but in all honesty there are far better zen games out there to be spending your hard earned dollar and time on.

Simple and boring.

None experienced during my playthrough.

MusicWave, Freefall, Stanga

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869455135

Align those chakras

Cosmic horror, spirituality and new age philosophy meet in the new survival horror / action adventure game The Chant from fledgling studio Brass Token that sees a young woman attend a spiritual retreat in the hopes it will help her deal with her tormented past. This peaceful weekend soon turns to dread after a group chant opens up a portal to a psychedelic dimension of terror known as "The Gloom" that feeds on negative energy. Are you ready to balance your chakras in order to save yourself and the retreats inhabitants?

The Chant is an enjoyable but flawed experience. Dated graphics and some subpar writing are matched by a pulpy and enjoyable plot that moves at brisk and thrilling pace combined with some truly unique and grotesque enemy designs. Combat is serviceable, if a little clunky, but The Chant has promise thanks to 3 different weapon types with different attacks each matching a particular enemy health bar so you will need to switch in and out depending on the different enemies on the screen at once which adds a nice dynamic feel to the combat. As a first game from Brass Token, it's most certainly a step in the right direction.

I had an enjoyable time with the game. In the end I found that despite the many rough edges, it delivered a solid survival horror/action adventure romp and is definitely something I would recommend be played by aficionados of the genre. It exudes great atmosphere, despite the AA level graphics, it has a moody and engaging soundtrack, and while I would be hesitant to call it scary, the various enemies the player must face off with are mostly fun to engage with.

Enjoyable survival horror that is the ideal game to introduce newcomers to the genre

None experienced during my playthrough

Resident Evil 8: Village, Alan Wake, Silent Hill: Homecoming

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869453510

Tall tales

Little Orpheus, a former Apple Arcade exclusive, finally makes its way over to PC with mixed results. While the game is visually striking and for the most part looks gorgeous, you can immediately see how its hampered by originally being an exclusive game to mobile devices as Little Orpheus provides very little platforming and puzzle solving challenge (the puzzles in particular are incredibly weak and don't require any brain power to solve). This was no doubt hampered by the original mobile device touch controls.

With a wacky narrative that includes dinosaurs, flying mechanical fish, the innards of a whale, Little Orpheus goes out of its way to be quirky but with mixed results. While I enjoyed seeing what crazy scenario the game would throw me into next, sadly it fizzles out towards the end with a very anti-climatic ending that feels abrupt and doesn't give the story a satisfying conclusion . The game is also incredibly short featuring nine episodes that last 30 min each. Towards the end of the game (particularly episode 8), I experienced a lot of glitches and bugs which forced me to have to shut the game down and restart in order to resolve.

Ultimately Little Orpheus ends up being a mixed bag and proves yet again that games can't skate along on good looks alone, their needs to be something of substance there to hook players, and sadly this is where Little Orpheus falls flat. Recommended but only when on a sale.

Mixed bag of elements that mostly all feel half baked

A series of bugs and glitches crop up from Episode 8 onwards that forced me to have to quit and restart the game in order to progress

Outer Wilds, Jusant, Bokura

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869454819

Down a cringe-inducing rabbit hole

In brief glimmers, I guess the best I can say about Boo Bunny Plague's is that it had some potential to be an interesting and unique experience combining beat-em-up gameplay mechanics with comedy and musical elements (yes there is a series of terrible musical interludes the player must endure), but unfortunately none of what it presents to the player gels cohesively. The game's concept of a bunny seeking revenge in a post-apocalyptic world set as a comedy-musical could have been intriguing (in the right hands), but the execution here is so flawed and all over the place. It's bare-bones basic and ends up representing more of a students group submission project for their game-making course than an actual polished enjoyable retail game.

Pros:

- None

Cons:

- Unrefined Gameplay Mechanics: Despite its creative premise, Boo Bunny Plague suffers from unpolished and clunky gameplay mechanics. Controls are awkward, making basic movements and combat a frustrating experience. The lack of responsiveness diminishes any potential enjoyment.

- Outdated Graphics: Even for its time the game's visuals are notably outdated, lacking the polish and detail expected in contemporary titles. Environments are repetitive, character models lack depth, and overall, the graphics fail to capture the player's attention or immerse them in the game world.

- Poor Storytelling: While the concept holds promise, the execution of the narrative is terrible. The plot is so basic and unrefined that it fails to engage players.

- Humorous Elements: Boo Bunny Plague's humour thinks that being crass and loud is funny. It's clear that some inspiration was taken from Gearbox's Borderlands series with regards to humour but nothing here is funny. Boo Bunny Plague is that annoying kid at school who is loud and obnoxious and thinks that every word that comes out of his/her mouth is hysterical when the reality is that they don't have a single funny bone in their entire body.

In conclusion, Boo Bunny Plague falls short of its potential due to a combination of unrefined gameplay mechanics, outdated graphics, poor storytelling, horrendous humour with super annoying characters. Quite frankly, as a sane and intelligent adult human, there is nothing enjoyable here.

Annoying, a game that constantly thinks its funny when its not.

None experienced during my playthrough.

Hi-Fi Rush, Pizza Tower, Corgi Warlock

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869455503

Mediocre-time strategy

Boid, a real-time strategy game, falls short of expectations with its lacklustre execution and uninspired gameplay. While it attempts to bring innovation to the genre, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling and engaging experience.

One of the major drawbacks of Boid is its underwhelming graphics. The visuals lack the polish and detail that players have come to expect from modern strategy games. The unit designs are generic, and the environments lack the depth and vibrancy that could have added to the overall immersion.

The gameplay mechanics, touted as a unique selling point, fail to make a lasting impression. The concept of controlling swarms of units is interesting on paper, but in practice, it often feels clunky and imprecise. The controls lack the responsiveness needed for smooth and intuitive gameplay, leading to frustrating moments when trying to coordinate your units effectively.

Furthermore, the lack of a compelling storyline or engaging campaign mode leaves much to be desired. The lacklustre narrative makes it difficult for players to stay invested in the game beyond the initial stages. The campaign missions themselves feel repetitive, with little variation in objectives or challenges.

Boid also suffers from a lack of community support and updates. The game seems to have been abandoned by its developers, with minimal patches or content additions post-launch. This neglect leaves players with a sense of disappointment, especially considering the potential that could have been unlocked with continuous support.

While Boid may appeal to a niche audience looking for a different take on the real-time strategy genre, it fails to capture the attention of a broader player base. With its subpar graphics, unimpressive gameplay mechanics, and lack of ongoing support, Boid struggles to stand out in a crowded market. Overall, it's a dull and forgettable experience for the genre.

Totally underwhelming.

None experienced during my playthrough.

Ashes of Singlularity, The Long Journey Home, Bannermen

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869455135

A flawed descent into darkness

Amnesia: The Bunker, the latest Frictional Game in the Amnesia universe offers players a tantalising premise with their latest offering in the haunting world of the Amnesia series where for the first time the player is armed and is able to fight back. While the protagonist of the story you control certainly won't suddenly evolve into a game version of Rambo, this is survival horror after all with survival horror mechanics where often the best option is to still run and hide, the game falls somewhat disappointingly short in some crucial areas resulting in a moderately satisfying experience which leaves me wondering whether it isn't time for the company to retire the series for a little while.

One of the game's strengths lies in its atmospheric design. The eerie ambiance and the dark, claustrophobic environments (that resemble a rats nest) effectively build tension and create an unsettling horrific atmosphere. The sound design, coupled with the visual aesthetics, contributes to the overall sense of dread, drawing players into its foreboding world. It also great to see developers building on what Creative Assembly gave us with Alien Isolation, where the monster works very similarly to how the Xenomorphs behaved where it will actively hunt the player based on sound and location. Running, instead of crouching slowly along, when the monster is close by will attract its attention. Same logic applies to using items such as torches or flares which will draw the beast closer to the light source.

However, where Amnesia: The Bunker struggles is in its execution of gameplay mechanics. The puzzles, while initially engaging, tend to become repetitive and predictable as the game has you backtracking quite a significant amount. The torch mechanic is frustrating as it barely illuminates the game's environments (I found this game incredibly dark making it a chore to navigate through,especially with its serpentine burrows that connect and loop back to other parts of the bunker). It becomes very easy to become very disorientated (which I suppose is what the developers are trying to achieve) and become lost. I get why they chose to only allow the torch to illuminate an area for a very short time (because it forces the player to make a sound by winding up the torch) but the novelty of it wore off very quickly as it became an exercise in frustration being constantly thrust into these incredibly dark environments and not being able to see where I was going. 

The game has a central hub where you can save progress, but this too ends up becoming a problem itself because if you die while out exploring for the next required item or solution to a puzzle all progress is reset to that last save. I died a lot in the dark (even while powering up the generator) but these constant deaths that reset all my hard work ended up geting on my nerves really fast. The monster that was stalking me quickly moved from harrowing and terrifying to irritating. The lack of innovation or variety in puzzle-solving methods also makes the game feel somewhat lacklustre.

Additionally, the narrative, although promising at the outset, is so bare bones it's practically non-existent and what is there suffers from pacing issues and a lack of depth in character development. The story failed to grip me, leaving me detached from the overall experience. As someone who enjoys these games for their often disturbing narratives, this left me extremely disappointed. The potential for a compelling narrative is present but right now it feels like nothing more than an afterthought.

On a positive note, the game does offer some genuinely chilling moments that can evoke genuine fear and tension. Running and hiding from the creature is still and incredibly intense experience and will make up the bulk of the players gameplay as they try to outwit and outsmart the creature. It is here where the game really does shine as it delivers some memorable and spine-tingling experiences, albeit inconsistently. Furthermore, the game's duration might feel shorter than expected, leaving players yearning for a more prolonged and immersive experience within this unnerving setting.

Pros:

- Atmospheric Immersion: The game excels in creating a foreboding atmosphere, drawing players into a dark and chilling world through its haunting visuals and sound design.

- Moments of Intense Fear: It delivers sporadic, heart-pounding moments that induce genuine fear and tension, offering a few memorable scares.

- Claustrophobic Setting: The confined, claustrophobic environment effectively contributes to the overall sense of unease, amplifying the horror experience.

Cons:

- Repetitive Puzzles with an insane amount of backtracking: The gameplay suffers from repetitive and predictable puzzles that are not on par with previous entries

- Lackluster Narrative Development: The story, what there is, is incredibly thin on the ground. Coupled with pacing issues many players may find themselves falling into boredom despite the terror of being stalked by a creature.

- Short Duration: The game's duration feels shorter than expected, leaving players longing for a more extended and immersive experience within its unsettling world.

In summary, Amnesia: The Bunker presents an atmospheric horror experience with a strong foundation in its ambiance and unsettling setting. However, it falls short when it comes to mechanics, pacing issues within a paper thin story, and puzzles that are on the weaker side to solve. It's worth exploring for fans of the series seeking a moderately chilling experience , but if you aren't already a fan of the series, I gather this one will leave those that are not scratching their heads wondering what all the fuss is about. One for the die-hard fans.

Disappointing.

None experienced during my playthrough.

Alien Isolation, Clock Tower 3, Amnesia: The Dark Descent

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869454819

Double, Double, Toil, and Puzzle

Nine Witches: Family Disruption offers a unique and offbeat gaming experience that is charming, engaging and humorous at times. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the game combines historical elements from the era with supernatural twists, creating a storyline that keeps you intrigued throughout and wanting to push on more to see how it resolves itself. While the game is not without its flaws, Nine Witches: Family Disruption manages to strike a good balance between humor, puzzle-solving, and a touch of the supernatural.

Pixelated Perfection:
One of the highlights of the game is its distinctive art style. The pixel art visuals evoke a sense of nostalgic charm, harking back to classic point-and-click adventures like The Secret of Monkey Island. The characters are quirky and endearing, each with their own distinct personality that adds depth to the overall narrative. The game's setting, a remote Norwegian village, further adds to the atmosphere and sense of mystery.

Crafty Puzzles:
The puzzles in Nine Witches: Family Disruption are generally well-crafted and require a mix of creative thinking and logical reasoning. They range from satisfyingly straightforward to delightfully challenging, providing a good balance for players of varying skill levels. The integration of supernatural elements into the puzzles adds a unique twist, making you feel like you're unravelling a well-kept secret.

Combat and Humour:
However, the game does have its shortcomings. The addition of combat in a point and click adventure seems out of place and can border on the obnoxious at times. There is an option to have the difficulty of the combat turned down but people who generally play point and click adventures are not the hardcore game combat types so this sudden change in genre may throw them a little. Additionally, while the humour is enjoyable, some jokes and references fall flat.

Conclusion:
Despite some minor drawbacks, Nine Witches: Family Disruption succeeds in delivering an entertaining and, at times, humorous gaming experience. The combination of historical context, supernatural occurrences, and witty characters makes for a memorable adventure. If you're a fan of point-and-click games that blend humour with mystery, and you're willing to overlook a few rough edges, Nine Witches: Family Disruption is definitely a game for you then.

Pros:

- Humorous and engaging narrative.
- Pixelated graphics that recall the heyday of the point and click adventure.
- Thoughtfully designed puzzles that vary in difficulty.

Cons:

- Combat sequences in the game feel oddly out of place.
- Humour can fall flat sometimes, with an over-reliance on fart and poop jokes.

Offbeat point and click adventure with a supernatural twist

None experienced during my playthrough.

Sam & Max: Hit the Road, The Secret of Monkey Island, Full Throttle

Rating ★★★★★★★☆☆☆

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869453510

On the case for fun in this 'detectively' delightful mystery

Note: This game was played to completion on my Nintendo Switch.

Jenny LeClue: Detectivu, developed by Mografi, is a delightful and masterfully crafted adventure that proves a captivating journey for players of all ages. With its engaging storytelling, charming characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, and generous dollops of laugh-out-loud humour, it stands as a shining example of how indie games can deliver an unforgettable gaming experience with incredibly memorable and well fleshed out characters.

Narrative Brilliance:
At the heart of Jenny LeClue: Detectivu lies an enthralling narrative that is woven with meticulous detail and unexpected twists. Players assume the role of Jenny, a young and aspiring detective, as she delves into a web of mysteries that interlace her quaint hometown. The story seamlessly blends elements of mystery, suspense, and coming-of-age themes, keeping players eagerly searching for clues and unraveling the enigmatic plot. The characters are richly developed and relatable, making their journeys and struggles genuinely endearing.

Unique Gameplay Mechanics:
The game cleverly merges traditional point-and-click adventure mechanics with innovative choices that impact the story's progression. Players are encouraged to engage in inquisitive exploration, detective work, and puzzle-solving. The "Narrative Focus" mechanic, which allows players to choose Jenny's actions and shape the story's direction, adds a layer of agency that feels both rewarding and consequential. This balance between player input and guided storytelling creates a dynamic and immersive experience.

Visual Charm:
Jenny LeClue: Detectivu boasts a distinctive art style that blends whimsical illustrations with a touch of dark undertones. The hand-drawn environments are brimming with life, filled with intricate details that invite players to explore every nook and cranny. Character animations and expressions are wonderfully expressive, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.

Puzzles and Challenges:
The game presents an array of brain-teasing puzzles that perfectly complement the detective theme. From deciphering cryptic codes to piecing together clues, the challenges feel organic to the narrative and provide a satisfying sense of accomplishment when solved. The difficulty curve strikes a balance between accessibility for newcomers and engaging complexity for seasoned puzzle enthusiasts.

Voice Acting and Sound Design:
The voice acting in Jenny LeClue: Detectivu is a standout feature, with each character's voice perfectly matching their personality and adding depth to their interactions. The background music and ambient sounds further enhance the game's atmosphere, contributing to moments of tension and emotional resonance.

Innovation and Replay Value:
Jenny LeClue: Detectivu's unique approach to storytelling and its impact on the narrative offers immense replay value. Different choices can lead to divergent outcomes, encouraging multiple playthroughs to fully explore the branching paths and uncover hidden secrets.

Conclusion:
Jenny LeClue: Detectivu is a shining example of indie game craftsmanship, delivering a captivating blend of storytelling, engaging gameplay, and distinctive artistry. With its memorable characters, intricate mysteries, and player-driven choices, it proves that even in the vast landscape of gaming, smaller titles can shine as bright beacons of creativity and innovation. If you're a fan of mystery, puzzles, or simply a well-crafted narrative, Jenny LeClue: Detectivu is an outstanding adventure well worth embarking on.

Pros:

- Intriguing and well-developed narrative with unexpected twists.
- Unique "Narrative Focus" mechanic adds player agency to the storytelling.
- Charming art style and expressive character animations.
- Thoughtfully designed puzzles that complement the detective theme.
- Strong voice acting and immersive sound design.
- High replay value due to branching paths and choices.

Cons:

- Some players may find certain puzzles challenging, potentially leading to frustration for those seeking a more casual experience.

Thrilling mystery with a wicked sense of humour boasting an incredible cast of characters you can't help but fall in love with.

None experienced during my playthrough.

Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy, The Case of the Golden Idol, Syberia: The World Before

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=869453048