GAMEPLAY REVIEWS

Tails of Iron

Unique, 2D Action-RPG in Epic Narrative Style

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Tails of Iron: A Tale of Grit and Glory

Tails of Iron is a 2D action RPG developed by Odd Bug Studio and published by United Label. Set in a grim, war-torn world, this game combines hand-drawn visuals with punishingly brutal combat, creating an experience that is both charming and challenging.

Story and Setting

In Tails of Iron, you play as Redgi, the heir to the Rat Throne, who must reclaim his kingdom from the merciless Frog Clan led by the ferocious Greenwart. The narrative is rich with lore and delivered through beautifully illustrated cutscenes and engaging dialogue. The world-building is reminiscent of classic tales like Redwall, with a dark twist that keeps you invested in Redgi’s journey.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The gameplay in Tails of Iron is where it truly shines. The combat system is inspired by the Soulslike genre, demanding precision and timing. Each encounter feels significant, and the difficulty curve ensures that you are constantly improving your skills. The game also features a variety of weapons and armor, allowing for customization and strategic planning.

Exploration is equally rewarding, with hidden secrets and side quests that add depth to the main storyline. The platforming elements are well-integrated, providing a seamless blend of combat and exploration.

Visuals and Sound

Visually, Tails of Iron is a treat. The hand-drawn art style is detailed and vibrant, bringing the grim world to life. The character designs are unique and memorable, each enemy and ally distinct in their appearance and behavior.

The sound design complements the visuals perfectly. The soundtrack is atmospheric, enhancing the tension and emotion of each scene. The voice acting, though minimal, is effective in conveying the story’s gravitas.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Engaging Story: A well-crafted narrative that keeps you invested.
  • Challenging Combat: Soulslike combat that is rewarding and satisfying.
  • Beautiful Art Style: Hand-drawn visuals that are both charming and detailed.
  • Rich World-Building: A world filled with lore, secrets, and side quests.

Cons:

  • Difficulty Spikes: Some players may find the difficulty curve steep.
  • Repetitive Elements: Certain gameplay mechanics can feel repetitive over time.

Final Verdict

Tails of Iron is a standout title in the action RPG genre. Its combination of challenging combat, engaging story, and beautiful visuals make it a must-play for fans of Soulslike games and narrative-driven adventures. While it has its flaws, the overall experience is one of grit, glory, and triumph.

Rating:

8.5

Play on PC

Tails of Iron

Unique, 2D Action-RPG in Epic Narrative Style

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Stellar Blade, developed by Shift Up, is an ambitious action RPG that aims to captivate players with its stunning visuals and intense combat.

Gameplay and Mechanics

At the heart of Stellar Blade is its fast-paced and fluid combat system. Players control Eve, a member of the 7th Airborne Squad, as she battles against the monstrous Naytiba in a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat is engaging, with a variety of weapons and abilities that keep encounters fresh and exciting. The game also incorporates light RPG elements, allowing players to upgrade Eve’s skills and equipment, adding depth to the gameplay.

Visuals and Art Style

One of Stellar Blade’s strongest points is its visual presentation. The game is a visual feast, with detailed character models, beautifully rendered environments, and impressive special effects. The art direction is top-notch, creating a world that is both haunting and mesmerizing. The design of the Naytiba monsters is particularly noteworthy, blending elements of cosmic horror with a unique aesthetic that sets them apart from typical video game enemies.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The audio design in Stellar Blade complements its visual splendor. The soundtrack, composed by a talented team, features a mix of orchestral and electronic elements that enhance the game’s atmosphere. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the clashing of weapons to the eerie ambient noises that fill the game’s world. Together, these elements create an immersive audio experience that draws players deeper into the game’s narrative.

Story and Characters

While Stellar Blade excels in gameplay and visuals, its story and character development leave much to be desired. The narrative follows Eve as she uncovers the mysteries of the Naytiba and the fate of humanity. However, the story is often predictable, and the characters lack depth and personality. Eve, despite being the protagonist, feels one-dimensional, and her interactions with other characters are shallow and unconvincing. This lack of emotional connection can make it difficult for players to become fully invested in the game’s world and its stakes.

Replayability and Challenges

Stellar Blade offers a decent amount of replayability, with multiple difficulty levels and hidden secrets to discover. The game’s challenging combat and boss battles provide a satisfying experience for those who enjoy testing their skills. However, the repetitive nature of some levels and the lack of significant narrative choices may limit the desire for multiple playthroughs.

Conclusion

Stellar Blade is a visually stunning action RPG that delivers thrilling combat and a captivating world. While it falters in its storytelling and character development, the game’s strengths in gameplay and presentation make it worth experiencing. Fans of action RPGs and visually impressive games will find much to enjoy.

Rating:

9

Play on PC

Stellar Blade

Gorgeous Action-RPG Exclusive for the PS5 Console

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Stellar Blade, developed by Shift Up, is an ambitious action RPG that aims to captivate players with its stunning visuals and intense combat.

Gameplay and Mechanics

At the heart of Stellar Blade is its fast-paced and fluid combat system. Players control Eve, a member of the 7th Airborne Squad, as she battles against the monstrous Naytiba in a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat is engaging, with a variety of weapons and abilities that keep encounters fresh and exciting. The game also incorporates light RPG elements, allowing players to upgrade Eve’s skills and equipment, adding depth to the gameplay.

Visuals and Art Style

One of Stellar Blade’s strongest points is its visual presentation. The game is a visual feast, with detailed character models, beautifully rendered environments, and impressive special effects. The art direction is top-notch, creating a world that is both haunting and mesmerizing. The design of the Naytiba monsters is particularly noteworthy, blending elements of cosmic horror with a unique aesthetic that sets them apart from typical video game enemies.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The audio design in Stellar Blade complements its visual splendor. The soundtrack, composed by a talented team, features a mix of orchestral and electronic elements that enhance the game’s atmosphere. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the clashing of weapons to the eerie ambient noises that fill the game’s world. Together, these elements create an immersive audio experience that draws players deeper into the game’s narrative.

Story and Characters

While Stellar Blade excels in gameplay and visuals, its story and character development leave much to be desired. The narrative follows Eve as she uncovers the mysteries of the Naytiba and the fate of humanity. However, the story is often predictable, and the characters lack depth and personality. Eve, despite being the protagonist, feels one-dimensional, and her interactions with other characters are shallow and unconvincing. This lack of emotional connection can make it difficult for players to become fully invested in the game’s world and its stakes.

Replayability and Challenges

Stellar Blade offers a decent amount of replayability, with multiple difficulty levels and hidden secrets to discover. The game’s challenging combat and boss battles provide a satisfying experience for those who enjoy testing their skills. However, the repetitive nature of some levels and the lack of significant narrative choices may limit the desire for multiple playthroughs.

Conclusion

Stellar Blade is a visually stunning action RPG that delivers thrilling combat and a captivating world. While it falters in its storytelling and character development, the game’s strengths in gameplay and presentation make it worth experiencing. Fans of action RPGs and visually impressive games will find much to enjoy.

Rating:

9

Play on PC

Stellar Blade

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Stellar Blade, developed by Shift Up, is an ambitious action RPG that aims to captivate players with its stunning visuals and intense combat.

Gameplay and Mechanics

At the heart of Stellar Blade is its fast-paced and fluid combat system. Players control Eve, a member of the 7th Airborne Squad, as she battles against the monstrous Naytiba in a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat is engaging, with a variety of weapons and abilities that keep encounters fresh and exciting. The game also incorporates light RPG elements, allowing players to upgrade Eve’s skills and equipment, adding depth to the gameplay.

Visuals and Art Style

One of Stellar Blade’s strongest points is its visual presentation. The game is a visual feast, with detailed character models, beautifully rendered environments, and impressive special effects. The art direction is top-notch, creating a world that is both haunting and mesmerizing. The design of the Naytiba monsters is particularly noteworthy, blending elements of cosmic horror with a unique aesthetic that sets them apart from typical video game enemies.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The audio design in Stellar Blade complements its visual splendor. The soundtrack, composed by a talented team, features a mix of orchestral and electronic elements that enhance the game’s atmosphere. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the clashing of weapons to the eerie ambient noises that fill the game’s world. Together, these elements create an immersive audio experience that draws players deeper into the game’s narrative.

Story and Characters

While Stellar Blade excels in gameplay and visuals, its story and character development leave much to be desired. The narrative follows Eve as she uncovers the mysteries of the Naytiba and the fate of humanity. However, the story is often predictable, and the characters lack depth and personality. Eve, despite being the protagonist, feels one-dimensional, and her interactions with other characters are shallow and unconvincing. This lack of emotional connection can make it difficult for players to become fully invested in the game’s world and its stakes.

Replayability and Challenges

Stellar Blade offers a decent amount of replayability, with multiple difficulty levels and hidden secrets to discover. The game’s challenging combat and boss battles provide a satisfying experience for those who enjoy testing their skills. However, the repetitive nature of some levels and the lack of significant narrative choices may limit the desire for multiple playthroughs.

Conclusion

Stellar Blade is a visually stunning action RPG that delivers thrilling combat and a captivating world. While it falters in its storytelling and character development, the game’s strengths in gameplay and presentation make it worth experiencing. Fans of action RPGs and visually impressive games will find much to enjoy.

Rating:

9

Play on PC

Little Nightmares 2

Experience an eerie world in this sequel on multiple platforms.

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Little Nightmares II – A Hauntingly Beautiful Sequel

Little Nightmares II is a masterful continuation of the eerie and atmospheric world introduced in the first game. Developed by Tarsier Studios, this sequel builds upon its predecessor’s strengths while introducing new elements that enhance the overall experience.

Gameplay and Mechanics

In Little Nightmares II, players step into the shoes of Mono, a young boy navigating a nightmarish world filled with grotesque and oversized enemies. Accompanied by Six, the protagonist from the first game, Mono must solve puzzles, evade terrifying creatures, and uncover the dark secrets of this twisted universe. The game retains the core mechanics of stealth and puzzle-solving, but introduces new features such as the ability to wield objects for defense and interaction, adding a fresh layer of complexity to the gameplay.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The game’s visual design is nothing short of stunning. The art style is both haunting and beautiful, with meticulously crafted environments that evoke a sense of dread and wonder. Each level is distinct, from the eerie wilderness to the unsettling school and the horrifying hospital. The use of lighting and shadows is particularly effective, creating an atmosphere that is both oppressive and captivating. The character design is equally impressive, with each enemy exuding a unique and terrifying presence.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The audio design in Little Nightmares II plays a crucial role in building tension and immersion. The soundtrack, composed by Tobias Lilja, is a haunting blend of ambient sounds and eerie melodies that perfectly complement the game’s dark aesthetic. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the creaking of floorboards to the distant, menacing growls of unseen threats. Together, these elements create an audio landscape that heightens the sense of fear and anticipation.

Story and Themes

While the narrative in Little Nightmares II is subtle and open to interpretation, it effectively conveys themes of fear, loss, and the struggle for survival. The relationship between Mono and Six adds an emotional depth to the story, as players witness their bond grow stronger amidst the horrors they face. The game’s ending is both shocking and thought-provoking, leaving players with lingering questions and a desire to delve deeper into its lore.

Replayability and Challenges

Little Nightmares II offers a compelling experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. The game’s challenging puzzles and hidden collectibles provide ample reason to revisit its dark world. However, some players might find certain sections frustrating due to trial-and-error gameplay, which can occasionally disrupt the pacing. Despite this, the overall experience is rewarding and memorable.

Conclusion

Little Nightmares II is a worthy successor to the original, delivering a captivating and chilling adventure that fans of the series will undoubtedly appreciate. Its combination of stunning visuals, atmospheric audio, and engaging gameplay make it a standout title in the horror genre. While it has its moments of frustration, the game’s strengths far outweigh its flaws, making it a must-play for anyone seeking a unique and haunting experience.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

Little Nightmares 2

Experience an eerie world in this sequel on multiple platforms.

Read Review

Little Nightmares II – A Hauntingly Beautiful Sequel

Little Nightmares II is a masterful continuation of the eerie and atmospheric world introduced in the first game. Developed by Tarsier Studios, this sequel builds upon its predecessor’s strengths while introducing new elements that enhance the overall experience.

Gameplay and Mechanics

In Little Nightmares II, players step into the shoes of Mono, a young boy navigating a nightmarish world filled with grotesque and oversized enemies. Accompanied by Six, the protagonist from the first game, Mono must solve puzzles, evade terrifying creatures, and uncover the dark secrets of this twisted universe. The game retains the core mechanics of stealth and puzzle-solving, but introduces new features such as the ability to wield objects for defense and interaction, adding a fresh layer of complexity to the gameplay.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The game’s visual design is nothing short of stunning. The art style is both haunting and beautiful, with meticulously crafted environments that evoke a sense of dread and wonder. Each level is distinct, from the eerie wilderness to the unsettling school and the horrifying hospital. The use of lighting and shadows is particularly effective, creating an atmosphere that is both oppressive and captivating. The character design is equally impressive, with each enemy exuding a unique and terrifying presence.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The audio design in Little Nightmares II plays a crucial role in building tension and immersion. The soundtrack, composed by Tobias Lilja, is a haunting blend of ambient sounds and eerie melodies that perfectly complement the game’s dark aesthetic. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, from the creaking of floorboards to the distant, menacing growls of unseen threats. Together, these elements create an audio landscape that heightens the sense of fear and anticipation.

Story and Themes

While the narrative in Little Nightmares II is subtle and open to interpretation, it effectively conveys themes of fear, loss, and the struggle for survival. The relationship between Mono and Six adds an emotional depth to the story, as players witness their bond grow stronger amidst the horrors they face. The game’s ending is both shocking and thought-provoking, leaving players with lingering questions and a desire to delve deeper into its lore.

Replayability and Challenges

Little Nightmares II offers a compelling experience that encourages multiple playthroughs. The game’s challenging puzzles and hidden collectibles provide ample reason to revisit its dark world. However, some players might find certain sections frustrating due to trial-and-error gameplay, which can occasionally disrupt the pacing. Despite this, the overall experience is rewarding and memorable.

Conclusion

Little Nightmares II is a worthy successor to the original, delivering a captivating and chilling adventure that fans of the series will undoubtedly appreciate. Its combination of stunning visuals, atmospheric audio, and engaging gameplay make it a standout title in the horror genre. While it has its moments of frustration, the game’s strengths far outweigh its flaws, making it a must-play for anyone seeking a unique and haunting experience.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World

Retro Beat ‘Em Up Bliss for the New Gen

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Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game – A Nostalgic Beat ‘Em Up Adventure

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is a delightful throwback to the golden age of arcade beat ’em ups, blending retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics. Originally released in 2010 and re-released as the Complete Edition in 2021, this game captures the essence of the beloved comic series and the cult classic film.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The game is a side-scrolling beat ’em up where players take on the roles of Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, and other iconic characters from the series. The objective is to battle through waves of enemies and defeat the seven evil exes to win Ramona’s heart. The combat system is straightforward yet engaging, featuring a mix of light and heavy attacks, combos, and special moves. As players progress, they can level up their characters, unlocking new abilities and improving stats, adding a light RPG element to the game.

Visuals and Soundtrack

One of the standout features of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is its vibrant pixel art style. The visuals are a love letter to the 16-bit era, with detailed sprites and colorful backgrounds that bring the world of Scott Pilgrim to life. The game’s soundtrack, composed by the chiptune band Anamanaguchi, perfectly complements the retro aesthetic. The energetic and catchy tunes enhance the overall experience, making each level a joy to play through.

Multiplayer and Replayability

The game supports both local and online co-op for up to four players, making it a fantastic option for group play. However, the online mode can be a bit unstable at times, which might affect the experience. Despite this, the game shines in local multiplayer, where teamwork and coordination are key to overcoming tougher enemies and bosses.

With only seven levels, the game might seem short, but its challenging difficulty and the need to grind for character upgrades add to its replayability. Additionally, the Complete Edition includes all previously released DLC, offering extra characters and modes to keep players engaged.

Conclusion

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is a charming and nostalgic journey that fans of the series and beat ’em up enthusiasts will appreciate. Its combination of retro visuals, a fantastic soundtrack, and solid gameplay mechanics make it a standout title in its genre. While it has its flaws, such as occasional online issues and a steep difficulty curve, the overall experience is highly enjoyable and worth revisiting.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World

Retro Beat ‘Em Up Bliss for the New Gen

Read Review

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game – A Nostalgic Beat ‘Em Up Adventure

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is a delightful throwback to the golden age of arcade beat ’em ups, blending retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics. Originally released in 2010 and re-released as the Complete Edition in 2021, this game captures the essence of the beloved comic series and the cult classic film.

Gameplay and Mechanics

The game is a side-scrolling beat ’em up where players take on the roles of Scott Pilgrim, Ramona Flowers, and other iconic characters from the series. The objective is to battle through waves of enemies and defeat the seven evil exes to win Ramona’s heart. The combat system is straightforward yet engaging, featuring a mix of light and heavy attacks, combos, and special moves. As players progress, they can level up their characters, unlocking new abilities and improving stats, adding a light RPG element to the game.

Visuals and Soundtrack

One of the standout features of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is its vibrant pixel art style. The visuals are a love letter to the 16-bit era, with detailed sprites and colorful backgrounds that bring the world of Scott Pilgrim to life. The game’s soundtrack, composed by the chiptune band Anamanaguchi, perfectly complements the retro aesthetic. The energetic and catchy tunes enhance the overall experience, making each level a joy to play through.

Multiplayer and Replayability

The game supports both local and online co-op for up to four players, making it a fantastic option for group play. However, the online mode can be a bit unstable at times, which might affect the experience. Despite this, the game shines in local multiplayer, where teamwork and coordination are key to overcoming tougher enemies and bosses.

With only seven levels, the game might seem short, but its challenging difficulty and the need to grind for character upgrades add to its replayability. Additionally, the Complete Edition includes all previously released DLC, offering extra characters and modes to keep players engaged.

Conclusion

Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game is a charming and nostalgic journey that fans of the series and beat ’em up enthusiasts will appreciate. Its combination of retro visuals, a fantastic soundtrack, and solid gameplay mechanics make it a standout title in its genre. While it has its flaws, such as occasional online issues and a steep difficulty curve, the overall experience is highly enjoyable and worth revisiting.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

Rayman Legends

Legendary Adventures Await In This New Iteration of a Classic

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Rayman Legends – A Masterpiece of Platforming Excellence

Rayman Legends is a shining example of how to create a platformer that is both visually stunning and incredibly fun to play. Developed by Ubisoft, this game builds on the success of Rayman Origins and takes it to new heights with its inventive level design, charming characters, and delightful music.

Gameplay and Mechanics

At its core, Rayman Legends is a 2D platformer that excels in every aspect. Players control Rayman and his friends as they navigate through beautifully crafted levels filled with obstacles, enemies, and secrets. The controls are tight and responsive, making it a joy to run, jump, and punch your way through each stage. The game introduces new mechanics and challenges at a steady pace, ensuring that the gameplay remains fresh and exciting from start to finish.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of musical levels, where players must time their actions to the beat of the music. These stages are not only challenging but also incredibly satisfying, as they blend gameplay and music in a way that few games manage to achieve.

Visuals and Art Style

Rayman Legends is a visual feast. The game uses the UbiArt Framework engine, which allows for stunning hand-drawn animations and vibrant, detailed backgrounds. Each level is a work of art, with unique themes and imaginative designs that make exploring the game world a constant delight. The character animations are fluid and expressive, adding to the overall charm of the game.

Soundtrack and Audio Design

The soundtrack of Rayman Legends is nothing short of spectacular. Composed by Christophe Héral and Billy Martin, the music perfectly complements the whimsical and adventurous tone of the game. From the energetic tunes of the musical levels to the atmospheric tracks that set the mood for each world, the audio design enhances the overall experience and keeps players engaged.

Multiplayer and Replayability

Rayman Legends shines in both single-player and multiplayer modes. The game supports local co-op for up to four players, making it a fantastic choice for playing with friends and family. The levels are designed to accommodate multiple players, and the cooperative gameplay adds an extra layer of fun and chaos.

In terms of replayability, Rayman Legends offers plenty of content to keep players coming back. Each level is filled with hidden collectibles and secret areas, encouraging exploration and replaying stages to find everything. Additionally, the game includes daily and weekly challenges that provide new objectives and leaderboards for competitive players.

Conclusion

Rayman Legends is a masterpiece that stands out as one of the best platformers of its generation. Its combination of tight gameplay, stunning visuals, and memorable music creates an experience that is both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to Rayman’s adventures, this game is a must-play that will leave you smiling from start to finish.

Rating:

7.5

Play on PC

Rayman Legends

Legendary Adventures Await In This New Iteration of a Classic

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Rayman Legends is a delightful platformer that stands out for its creativity and variety. Here’s a brief review:

Pros:

  • Inventive Ideas: Rayman Legends consistently introduces new and unpredictable gameplay elements over its roughly 12-hour campaign.
  • Beautiful Animation: The game’s transitions, clever bosses, and expressive visuals are stunning.
  • Secret Areas: Rayman Legends hides crafty secret areas in plain sight, encouraging exploration.
  • Satisfying Challenges: Each stage is brilliantly designed, providing a sense of accomplishment when cleared.
  • Fun Boss Fights: Boss battles showcase impressive visual tricks and add to the game’s atmosphere.

Cons:

  • Minor Distractions: Some levels featuring Murfy can distract from the game’s overall energy.
  • Questionable Content: Female character deaths occasionally lead to out-of-place panty shots.

Overall, Rayman Legends is an excellent platformer that’s best enjoyed with friends or family. It’s a true gem! 🌟

For more detailed reviews, you can check out IGN’s review or GameSpot’s take

Rating:

7.5

Play on PC

Sonic Superstars

Race Through the Multiverse on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch

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Sonic Superstars, a 2D platformer that brings a fresh twist to classic Sonic action. Here’s what reviewers have to say:

IGN: Jada Griffin praises the game’s charming levels, new Chaos Emerald powers, and exploration. However, she notes that Sonic Superstars trades breakneck speed for more platforming, which might disappoint fans who love the series for its velocity1.
Metacritic: The game shines visually and introduces complex boss fights. However, some aspects of game design feel unpolished, affecting communication with players2.
OpenCritic: Like a modern version of the Genesis classics, Sonic Superstars keeps things fresh with four-player co-op functionality and innovative Emerald powers. While not as good as Sonic Mania, it’s still a worthy addition to the franchise3.
In summary, Sonic Superstars offers a mix of nostalgia and new features, but its departure from breakneck speed may divide fans.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

Sonic Superstars

Race Through the Multiverse on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch

Read Review

Sonic Superstars, a 2D platformer that brings a fresh twist to classic Sonic action. Here’s what reviewers have to say:

IGN: Jada Griffin praises the game’s charming levels, new Chaos Emerald powers, and exploration. However, she notes that Sonic Superstars trades breakneck speed for more platforming, which might disappoint fans who love the series for its velocity1.
Metacritic: The game shines visually and introduces complex boss fights. However, some aspects of game design feel unpolished, affecting communication with players2.
OpenCritic: Like a modern version of the Genesis classics, Sonic Superstars keeps things fresh with four-player co-op functionality and innovative Emerald powers. While not as good as Sonic Mania, it’s still a worthy addition to the franchise3.
In summary, Sonic Superstars offers a mix of nostalgia and new features, but its departure from breakneck speed may divide fans.

Rating:

10

Play on PC

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