Recent reviews by KillerSponge

This game, like the original, presents the biggest strengths that Double Fine has: imaginative, gorgeous and fleshed out worlds, absolutely fantastic characters and dialogue, and some of the best visual design you'll see. A tad darker than the original, the game seems to focus more on the overall world of Psychonauts, with greater emphasis on the overarching story. I feel like some of the individual mind vignettes lose out a bit because of that, being less imaginative/thematic in service to the larger narrative.

The gameplay works pretty well, even if it's a bit basic. The scavenger hunt is back in an even bigger way, and all levels and the overworld especially are full of nooks and crannies to find collectibles. Combat and platforming is a lot smoother than in the original (and a lot easier, which makes the game a lot more relaxing, in a good way), but still not really why I would recommend this game. You're here for the charming characters, and the game's got that in spades :)

This is an absolutely amazing game, possibly one of the best I've played in recent years. Torpor Games has managed to make a game about politics where both the people and politics are nuanced, while not being shy about the evils that can lie within them. They've made a game about pragmatism vs idealism, while not being shy about the massive cost of letting go of either. I'm looking forward to giving this a second playthrough.

A very American game that'll suck you right into it's night-time cab ride vibes. A bit on the nose sometimes, but some wonderful characters, interesting systems and gorgeous art.

The theme and mechanics are a lot weaker than Life is Strange 1, and the game as a whole is a lot more geared towards traditional player expression, validating whatever choice the player makes. It still _feels_ like the game wants to say something about your choices, but it never fully commits, which is a shame. It doesn't help that the validation of the player expression is a bit wishy washy and unpredictable, which might leave you feeling a bit disappointed.

Overall though, Life is Strange 2 still provides some of the best still, quiet scenes that let you linger and revel in a particular moment and emotion. The varied environments and gorgeous music let you inhabit each scene perfectly, which is one of the greatest qualities of this series.