When I first started doing these analyses, I knew that one day, I would be analyzing Pyre (short enough, no abbreviation needed...), due to one simple fact: it is so very bizarrely unique. I would by no means consider myself a super fan of Supergiant Games. Some of their games are fun, others, not so much. But I will say this about the small game dev company, they certainly … [Read more...]
Cuphead – A Masterpiece in Art Design, A Nightmare of Game Design
Ah Cuphead... If you're a gamer, then no doubt you've already heard of this infamous game. I hardly need to spout what's already known. But for those unfamiliar, I will. Cuphead is a charming looking game designed around the art styles of the cartoons of the 1930's, particularly early Walt Disney, Ub Iwerks, and Max Fleischer. Of course, this adorable looking game has a catch: … [Read more...]
Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective – A Hauntingly Good Time
It's October! And that means another Halloween-esque game analysis! While this one isn't technically based around Halloween, I figured the main subject of ghosts and possessions was close enough. So, let's get to it! I believe I've mentioned in the past that the Nintendo DS ushered in a golden age of "weird" games. Games that didn't quite fit the norm in terms of gameplay or … [Read more...]
Double Dragon Neon – “In the Jungle of Laser Beams, Tonight!”
Ah, Double Dragon Neon (DDN). Man, oh man, do I love this game. Which is not something I ever thought I'd say, regarding the Double Dragon series. I'll set the record straight, right away (as I always seem to do in these things...). I've never harbored any ill will towards the Double Dragon series. The only problem I ever had with it was, that as a kid, if a brawler did not … [Read more...]
Fire Emblem: Three Houses – When Innovation and Juice Get In the Way of Gameplay
I've always enjoyed the Fire Emblem series. Like many, I was fascinated by Marth and Roy when they were introduced in Super Smash Bros. Melee. I wanted very much to know who these mysterious characters were, and what Japanese exclusive series they came from. When Fire Emblem came to the West in the form of Fire Emblem (GBA) I was instantly hooked. And the series just kept … [Read more...]