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Official GBAtemp Reviews

October 2019

• Luigi's Mansion 3 (Nintendo Switch)

  Luigi's Mansion 3 is a game for everybody. Be you young or old, experienced or otherwise, this game goes beyond to appeal to every type of player. With a great range of puzzles and challenges alongside a series best in gameplay and combat, it is a game I wholeheartedly recommend to any Switch owner, especially in this most spooky of times.

• Sublevel Zero Redux (Nintendo Switch)

  Sublevel Zero Redux is a fine example of a roguelike game with a brilliantly tight control scheme and striking visual style. Though not without fault, it's a game that drives you to observe and better your knowledge, to in turn understand and enjoy more of what really makes it stand out. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any fans of roguelikes and floaty spaceship goodness.

September 2019

• The Sojourn (PlayStation 4)

  The Sojourn is a bizarre game. While not feeling like it pushes any kind of boundaries, it manages to put forward something new and interesting. Utilising simple graphics and an easy to grasp puzzling concept, it's incredibly easy to jump into, whether you're wanting to lose a few minutes or a few hours.

• Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Nintendo Switch)

  Fire Emblem: Three Houses is both a cumulation of everything that makes the series so good, and an evolution of its shortcomings. Learning from past successes and failures, it stands proud as an experience accessible to the masses, with the core balance still intact. In this nest of choice and freedom still exists the linearity and resource management I personally adore. For those who want everything, it's there for the taking. For those who want a classic experience, you can pave through the game. For those wanting a fantastic Fire Emblem experience, look no further.

August 2019

• Razer BlackWidow Elite Gaming Keyboard (Hardware)

  Putting forward an incredibly clean design suited for everyday use, Razer have created a gaming keyboard that really is more than its namesake. Though excelling in its primary purpose thanks to its reactive switches and overall comfort, this is a keyboard that would look perfectly normal in an office or school alike. Though expensive, it is a quality product that if my experiences are anything to go by, should last you for many years to come.

• SteelSeries Arctis 7 Wireless Gaming Headset (Hardware)

  If you're looking for a headset to use at your computer, for talking, playing games, or even streaming, this headset ticks every box. With great sound quality, a good set of customisation available, and a stellar 24+ hour battery life, the Arctis 7 comes highly recommended. If however you want something for more general day to day life, for commuting, for being out and about, your money may be better spent elsewhere.

July 2019

• Dragon Quest Builders 2 (Nintendo Switch)

  Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a true standout in the Switch's ever-glistening library of gems. From its brilliantly-paced progression to its secrets and thoughtful world design, it's a game you can play seemingly-endlessly. As long as you have a passion to build, as long as you're eager to create, develop, and grow, there will always be something to do. It is a game I wholeheartedly recommend to any Switch owner, and with a free demo available, there's no excuse not to give it a shot.

• Super Mario Maker 2 (Nintendo Switch)

  Super Mario Maker 2 is everything that made the original game great and more. Featuring an expanded toolkit, a well-paced story mode, an addicting endless challenge, and even online multiplayer, it is the definitive 2D Mario experience on the Switch and any console before it. Jump into a truly unlimited experience.

June 2019

• Super Neptunia RPG (Nintendo Switch)

  Super Neptunia RPG is a game I tried incredibly hard to like. Despite its stunning visuals and interesting ideas, the game falls short in far too many basic areas. From horrible loading times to lifeless NPCs, strange design choices, and an overall feel of a rushed release, it's something I can only recommend to the die-hard Neptunia fans out there that feel they must see it all. To you brave few, I wish you luck.

• Tribit X1 Wireless Earbuds (Hardware)

  Tribit have come up with something both affordable and functionally fantastic. If you're in need of a new pair of wireless buds, or just want something while you save for your extraordinarily expensive dream pair, the X1s come highly recommended.

• RetroTINK-2X (Hardware)

  The RetroTINK-2X is the perfect piece of kit to get a budding retro enthusiast to be off the ground. With what is ultimately a lagless solution to the ever-growing problem of playing your classic games properly, it offers the essential features in an easy to setup and easy to use package.

May 2019

• Sefu Deluxe Switch Bag (Hardware)

  Sefu promised a deluxe bag, and they most certainly delivered. Featuring a perfect form factor for Nintendo's hottest system, and a design that screams style over gamer garishness, I can't think of anything I'd rather transport my Switch in.

• Zanki Zero: Last Beginning (PlayStation 4)

  Zanki Zero is a game I never expected to enjoy as much as I did. With its diverse cast, bizarre storyline, and myriad of odd quirks aimed to kill your party, it's a brilliant experience, and one I plan to come back to in the future.

April 2019

• Yoshi's Crafted World (Nintendo Switch)

  Yoshi's Crafted World is the type of game designed to take you away from the stress of modern life. Featuring gorgeous visuals, a refined control scheme, and a mountain if content to be uncovered, it's one I find myself able to recommend to almost any Switch owner.

• GameSir VX AimSwitch (Hardware)

  While I commend GameSir for taking a step into the unknown and offering something undeniably niche in nature, I have to think there was a reason nobody had done it before. If they focus on the strengths of this product, I firmly believe they could create something fantastic, but I struggle to recommend the VX AimSwitch to the vast majority of people.

• Nelke and the Legendary Alchemists: Ateliers of the New World (Nintendo Switch)

  Nelke and The Legendary Alchemists is a celebration of the Atelier series in the truest sense. Putting forward an experience both accessible to series newcomers and engaging for veterans, it does a brilliant job of captivating players despite its relatively easy to grasp gameplay loop. Though slightly let down by its RPG elements, it's a game I can recommend for anybody who enjoys careful planning and watching their efforts slowly come to fruition; your ideal town is right at your fingertips.

March 2019

• KLIM Aim Gaming Mouse (Hardware)

  As a budget mouse with so much to offer, I struggle not to recommend it to those wanting a quality product at a low price. That being said, I cannot overlook just how much it is let down by its driver software. Unintuitive and frustrating as a whole, it's something you'll need patience to deal with, but assuming you can, you'll be getting more than enough to justify a purchase.

February 2019

• Arozzi Arena Gaming Desk (Hardware)

  Arozzi's Arena gaming desk is a simple take on an otherwise RGB-lit and flashy market. With its key selling points lying in its full-surface mouse mat and cable management options, it is a fantastic option for those looking for something functional without appearing tacky or garish.

• Ace Combat 7 (PlayStation 4)

  Ace Combat 7 is a marvel of combat flight simulation. Putting forwards a package both concise in nature and packed with features and quirks to promote replayability and exploration, it's a game I struggled to put down. If you enjoy flight simulation, air combat, or even just a mess of explosions, bullets and lasers, I encourage you to give it a shot.

January 2019

• AceNS Pro (Hardware)

  There is no excuse for a release like this. Featuring downgraded hardware and a hand-me-down CFW solution, I struggle to recommend it to anybody. I can only hope the Ace3DS team take this criticism to come back with something better in future, because this is an unbridled embarrassment.

• New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe (Nintendo Switch)

  New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe is yet another gem to be snatched from the obscurity of the Wii U and presented to the masses thanks to the Switch's popularity. Despite not featuring much in the way of new content, the addition of Toadette alone creates an entirely fresh way to play this almost seven year old title. For a fan of Mario, a fan of platforming, or just somebody who never had a Wii U, I cannot recommend it enough.

• Nippon Marathon (PlayStation 4)

  If I had to pick a single word to describe Nippon Marathon, it would be fun. While I struggle to ascertain exactly which part of this beautiful mess calls to me so, I can recommend it for anybody looking for a wild multiplayer experience. Pick up four controllers and get ready for the marathon of your life.

• Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends Definitive Edition (Nintendo Switch)

  Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends Definitive Edition is without a doubt the best Warriors game I have ever played, and to see it run so well on the Switch is fantastic. Featuring a seemingly endless ocean of content to be conquered, alongside an army of playable characters and arsenal of unique weaponry, it's a game I can recommend to any Warriors fan with no hesitation.

December 2018

• Neo Geo Mini International Version (Hardware)

  The Neo Geo Mini has a lot going for it. From its display to its controls and library of fantastic games, it sadly finds itself held back by forced filters and shoddy menus. If you can get past this, you'll have in your hands a significant and satisfying piece of gaming history.

• Super Smash Bros Ultimate (Nintendo Switch)

  Super Smash Bros Ultimate lives up to its namesake. Putting forward a refined and polished console Smash experience in a form digestible both on the go and through all-night marathon sessions, it succeeds in bringing each unique joy of the series to the Switch. Though lacking a few iconic modes, it stands as one of the best games released for the console, whether playing alone or with friends.

• New AceNS (Hardware)

  It is no understatement to say I cannot fault this dongle. Between its fantastic design and improvements over the previous iteration in its internal battery, I firmly believe there is no better option for Switch users at the moment.

November 2018

• Pokemon Let's Go Eevee/Pikachu (Nintendo Switch)

  Pokemon Let's Go Eevee and Pikachu are fine additions to the series, albeit different to what we're used to seeing. Presenting a more casual and relaxed environment to stroll through and appreciate, they offer a new Kanto. One of exploration, one of cooperation, and one of catching them all. It isn't without its faults, but as a way to bridge the gap between mobile and main series, it succeeds brilliantly.

• Gal Metal (Nintendo Switch)

  Gal Metal is a game that is what you make of it. If you want a tall string of technical combinations, this is a game for you. If you want a satisfying and consistent beat through some brilliant metal beats, this is still a game for you. The flexibility and personal nature of the experience feels entirely unique, let down only by the limited list of 13 tracks. Pick this up if you're a fan of metal, of drumming, or of violently swinging a Joy Con; you won't regret it.

October 2018

• Corpse Party: Book of Shadows (Computer)

  This is a game for Corpse Party fans and nobody else, and that's fine. Building on the world, lore, and characters of the first game, Book of Shadows presents an encyclopaedia of every question you never knew you wanted answering, and will keep you wanting more. This version offering HD graphics and a real point and click interaction, it stands as the best way to experience these tragic tales.

• Fire Pro Wrestling World (PlayStation 4)

  Fire Pro Wrestling World is a game for anybody that wants a good time. Though best enjoyed with friends, the progression and cast of characters seen in the single player mode kept me gripped throughout, and will likely grip me again should I come back to it in future.

• Super Mario Party (Nintendo Switch)

  Super Mario Party is where the series should have gone years ago. Gone are the cars, the mini stars, and the one player chasing down the team as Bowser. Here we have a Mario Party game for the ages, one that builds on and will hopefully be built upon, and one I'll be coming back to happily.

• Shadow of the Tomb Raider (PlayStation 4)

  Shadow of the Tomb Raider is a fantastic game, this much I have no doubt. While I might not be able to compare it to the other games in Lara's modern trilogy, I can say with certainty this game does enough to stand proudly alone. Through great visuals, fun puzzles, and an unexpected degree of replayability, this is a game worth playing for any fan of the series, or anybody just looking for a great journey.

September 2018

• AceNS (Hardware)

  If you can get past its use of capacitors as means of power, you have an easy to use, and easy to update RCM loader that is affordable and well built.

• snakebyte Tough:Case (Hardware)

  The latest offering of snakebyte is one I'm in two worlds on. On one hand, you have an extremely sturdy case that will almost certainly keep your Switch safe for years to come. On the other, you have a system that will forever be portable, with Joy Cons constantly connected. If this is what you're after, or if you're wanting something to protect your system from overly excited children, it might be worth considering; but for those wanting the full hybrid Switch experience, I'd keep looking.

• Senran Kagura Reflexions (Nintendo Switch)

  Senran Kagura Reflexions is no masterpiece, but it was never made to be one. It is a short and sweet adventure of discovery and love, of poking, slapping, grabbing, and ultimately, massaging. Making great use of the Switch's featureset, the Joy Cons are put to the test in a way I would have never imagined. This is a game I find myself able to recommend if only for the hilarity of playing with a group of friends. It does more than enough to justify its price tag, even if its content is limited.

• SNK Heroines: Tag Team Frenzy (Nintendo Switch)

  Despite its shortcomings, I did enjoy my time with SNK Heroines. Its weak plot and lacklustre single player options did leave me wanting more, but the fun and ease of playing with friends really stood out to me. If you have a group to play with or find yourself eager to play against the masses online, it's definitely a game I can recommend. An appreciation for the partially dressed also helps.

August 2018

• E-Win Europe FLG-XL Gaming Chair (Hardware)

  E-Win's FLG-XL gaming chair has surprised me. Moving from a normal desk chair to this has been a more pleasant experience than I could have possibly imagined, each element coming together to create something comfy beyond my expectations. If you have the cash to splash, I recommend it wholeheartedly.

• Okami HD (Nintendo Switch)

  Okami HD is a great way to experience this timeless title. As my first encounter with the game, the Switch's unique touch controls went great lengths in crafting an immersive world and combat style. Pair this with a graphical style that not only looks incredible, but stands up to modern standards, and you have a surprisingly affordable adventure you won't be able to put down.

• clockwork GameShell (Hardware)

  The GameShell's modular design is what sets it apart from the rest. If you're like me and want to assemble it and enjoy it, you have a versatile handheld capable of your emulation fix. Where it shines however are for those more adventurous; those who see the Lego case and build their GameShell into a castle. It's a system with a lot to give to a lot of people, and if you're capable of looking past its battery life, one I wholeheartedly recommend.

• Octopath Traveler (Nintendo Switch)

  Octopath Traveler fills a gap in the Switch's ever-growing market, putting forward a full and refined traditional JRPG experience in a way that will appeal to both experienced and new fans alike. Presenting a unique and visually enticing graphical style, alongside eight storylines and a plethora of bonus content, it is a game I unreservedly recommend for Nintendo Switch owners.

July 2018

• Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker (Nintendo 3DS)

  Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is a game I never thought I'd see on the 3DS, and I could never have imagined it being ported so smoothly. With no compromise to the gameplay experience, this is Captain Toad. On the 3DS. If you want wonderful puzzles, colourful and diverse environments, replayability, and challenge. If you're ready for an adventure I would call timeless, you are ready for Captain Toad.

• Mario Tennis Aces (Nintendo Switch)

  I feel Mario Tennis Aces is a leap in the right direction for Camelot. With incredibly fun additions to the series, as well as a natural means of learning and reinforcing their use, you have an intense online experience with the training needed for you to be comfortable playing against others. If you can get past the short adventure mode and enjoy playing with people around the world, you will find yourself here a wonderfully refined tennis experience that pulls out all the stops to feel fluid and look divine.

June 2018

• Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido (Nintendo Switch)

  Sushi Striker: The Way of Sushido is an unexpected beauty held back by preconceptions and what is easy to consider an unreasonable price tag. The variety of difficulty paired with a well-polished gameplay experience goes a long way in putting forward something worthwhile and memorable. Add to this a simplicity and recognisable core as well as an inviting design, and you have something to be enjoyed by anybody fortunate enough to pick it up.

• Trident Pro-S2 Controller (Hardware)

  The Trident Pro-S2 is a great controller sporting a fantastic range of features. Paired with the professional look and feel, turbo button, and interchangeable D-Pad, it truly saddens me to see it held back by something so trivial as its rumble functionality. If you feel you can work through this, or are fine with using another controller where this is an issue, it is a great and reasonably priced investment.

• Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn (Nintendo Switch)

  Shaq Fu: A Legend Reborn is a game by any normal definition should not exist. It is a game I am truly surprised people wanted and funded. To those of you who took the leap more than four years ago; I say thank you. I sit here with a rough diamond, most certainly not perfect, but memorable and hilarious at every chance it gets. While short, this is not a game to be overlooked—Shaq is back.

• Shape of the World (Nintendo Switch)

  To me, Shape of the World feels like Proteus injected with a shallow feeling of progression on a linear path. Removing the freedom and unbound nature without considering the ramifications, it expects you to play with no real motivation nor driving factor. If you are content with a short slow-paced walk through some undeniably interesting scenery, this might yet be for you, but don't be expecting much beyond this.

May 2018

• Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition (Nintendo Switch)

  This truly is the definitive Hyrule Warriors experience, and a must-buy for those yearning for more in the wake of Fire Emblem Warriors. Though some time to adjust is needed, you'll soon be back slaying the best of what the kingdom has to offer.

• South Park: The Fractured But Whole (Nintendo Switch)

  This is a must-have for fans of the series, fans of fourth wall-breaking, vulgarity, and humour. South Park: The Fractured But Whole offers the complete South Park experience wherever you are, at the cost of no cut content, and no lacking performance. It inspires hope for more mature games on the system, and once again shows just what it is capable of.

April 2018

• Agatha Knife (Nintendo Switch)

  From so much as watching its trailer, Agatha Knife had me hooked. From start to end, it is packed with content to make you laugh, shudder, and truly make you question your outlook on religion and humanity. It is a must-buy for any fans of point and click, or just those looking for a dark ride down a humorous street.

March 2018

• Detective Pikachu (Nintendo 3DS)

  Detective Pikachu is a game I feel is held back by its overly child-friendly ideas. I can wholeheartedly recommend this to those wishing for their children to experience Pokemon in a new light, but older fans of the series will be left underwhelmed.

• The Long Reach (Nintendo Switch)

  The Long Reach offers a slice of horror to the adventurous and puzzling among us, presenting a well-told and gripping story through its range of dialogue and optional interactions. Despite minor glitches and perhaps not offering much in the way of new content to the genre, it finds itself as a well-made and engaging first release for developers Painted Black Games, and I look forward to seeing their future work.

February 2018

• 8Bitdo N30 Arcade Stick (Hardware)

  8Bitdo once again come forward as the royalty of classic controller design. Sporting the same fantastic compatibility and design brilliance they've come to be known for, I struggle to avoid recommending it to those seeking the nostalgic thrill of an arcade stick.

• Layers of Fear: Legacy (Nintendo Switch)

  Layers of Fear: Legacy puts forward a strong entry into the Switch's maturing horror genre. While short and limited in replay value, the quality of the experience it provides goes a long way in justifying its purchase.

• Bayonetta + Bayonetta 2 (Nintendo Switch)

  PlatinumGames' Switch debut leaves me excited for the future. The witch is back in a style and form befitting only of herself, paving the way for, and bridging the gap to, Bayonetta 3. Bayonetta + Bayonetta 2 demonstrates the Switch can not only run the greats of the Wii U on the go, but run them at their best.

• The Longest 5 Minutes (Nintendo Switch)

  The Longest Five Minutes throws you back to your first RPG experience, and toys with what you remember. Pushing you through the same trials as its hero, you come to feel a great sense of empathy with its characters; and come to appreciate the joy memories bring.

January 2018

• 8Bitdo SN30 Pro (Hardware)

  I struggle to find reason not to recommend this controller. While not much cheaper than the official Switch Pro Controller, the seamless support for PC and Android sets it apart. From design, to form factor, to attention to detail and support, it is fantastic through and through.

• InnerSpace (Nintendo Switch)

  Should you want a relaxing game of exploration and discovery, where each crevice and cavern hides a secret to be found, InnerSpace is for you. A marvel of perfectly blended themes, music, and gameplay—standing out for the attention to detail put in. I look forward to seeing what else PolyKnight Games is capable of.

December 2017

• Mario Party: The Top 100 (Nintendo 3DS)

  Mario Party: The Top 100 delivers on what it sets out to, providing a modern way to play 100 classic minigames, each legendary in its own right. Where the game falls short is in delivering what fans yearn for, almost teasing them with half of what made the series so brilliant. Were this game to embrace the chaos and beautiful madness many have come to love the series for, it would have potential to be the greatest entry yet.

November 2017

• Xenoblade Chronicles 2 (Nintendo Switch)

  Xenoblade Chronicles 2 puts forward a strong message of what the Switch is capable of. Providing a full JRPG experience, in tandem with lush visual and audio design both on the go and at home, it sets the bar for future games to grace the system; and it sets it high.

• Demon Gaze II (PlayStation Vita)

  Demon Gaze II reminds us again the Vita still has some fight in it. If you are looking for a portable dungeon crawler experience, if you want something attractive to play, engaging, something that will hold your attention for minutes or hours per session; this is for you.

October 2017

• Bad Apple Wars (PlayStation Vita)

  Overall, Bad Apple Wars provides a rollercoaster of emotions. It will take you on a ride through the spine-chilling, the heartwarming, through good and bad. By the end, you have to question whether there is truly a difference.

• SteamWorld Dig 2 (Nintendo Switch)

  For those of you looking for a game to work at; a game to break apart piece by piece, finding every secret, and beating every challenge. For those of you who like item progression, and the slow but sure enhancement of movement and gameplay. For those of you looking to continue your SteamWorld saga. This game is for you. This is a love letter to collectors, to diggers, but sadly remains a flawed jewel.

September 2017

• Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle (Nintendo Switch)

  Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is truly a gem in the crown lineup of Nintendo Switch games. It has proven its worth tenfold, and is in the rare position of having me excited for what lies ahead for it in the form of its season pass.

August 2017

• Severed (Nintendo Switch)

  Severed is a fantastic game, and stands as one of the best games available at this time on the Nintendo Switch. While I believe it can only truly be experienced once, it is enough for me to wholly recommend it.

July 2017

• Collar X Malice (PlayStation Vita)

  All in all, my passion for Collar X Malice is more than I could have ever anticipated. From its diverse and interesting cast, to its alluring version of Shinjuku in crisis, it captivated me from start to end - held back only by mundane extras and localisation errors. It stands in my eyes as the best visual novel since Virtue's Last Reward - and I hope in future it can see a PC release to free it from the niche shackles of the PS Vita.