Recent reviews by kuradori

"Doki Doki Literature Club" by Team Salvato - Oh boy, where do I start? When I first came across this game, I thought, "Great, another cute, innocuous visual novel about high school romance." Little did I know, I was signing up for a psychological rollercoaster that would both intrigue and disturb me.

At first glance, the game presents itself as your typical dating sim set in a high school literature club. You've got your cast of adorable girls: Sayori, the cheerful one; Natsuki, the tsundere; Yuri, the mysterious one; and Monika, the club president. Sounds cliché, right? Well, don't let the cute anime art style fool you.

As I progressed through the game, the charming facade began to crack, revealing a dark and twisted narrative that I never saw coming. The game cleverly plays with visual novel conventions, leading me down a path filled with unexpected turns and shocking moments. The psychological horror elements are brilliantly executed, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

One of the most striking aspects of "Doki Doki Literature Club" is its meta-narrative approach. The game frequently breaks the fourth wall, creating a uniquely unsettling experience. It's like the game knows it's a game, and it's not afraid to mess with your mind.

The writing is sharp and engaging, and the characters are more complex than they initially appear. The game does a fantastic job of building tension and atmosphere, leading to some genuinely creepy moments. The soundtrack also deserves a shoutout for perfectly complementing the mood shifts throughout the game.

However, a word of caution: this game is not for the faint of heart. It deals with heavy themes and has some disturbing content. The cheery exterior is a deceptive cover for a much darker experience.

In conclusion, "Doki Doki Literature Club" is a masterclass in subverting expectations. It's a wild ride that starts as a seemingly innocent visual novel and transforms into something much more sinister. If you're looking for a visual novel that will both charm and unsettle you, this game is a must-play. Just don't say I didn't warn you.

"Brotato" - the game where you're a potato... with guns. Lots of guns. Honestly, when I first saw this game, I thought, "Sure, why not? My gaming life was clearly missing a gun-toting potato." Developed and published by Blobfish, "Brotato" is a top-down arena shooter roguelite that's as absurd as it sounds, yet surprisingly addictive.

The premise is simple: you're a potato - not just any potato, but Brotato. Crashed on an alien planet, you must fend off hordes of aliens with up to six weapons simultaneously. Because why settle for one gun when you can have six? The gameplay is fast-paced and chaotic, perfect for when you want to unwind by shooting extraterrestrial creatures as a starchy tuber.

The variety of traits, items, and weapons is impressive. From flamethrowers to SMGs, the arsenal is as ridiculous as the concept. Each run is unique, and customizing Brotato with different combinations of weapons and traits never gets old. The game's fast runs and waves of enemies provide a quick and satisfying play session, perfect for those short gaming breaks.

Visually, the game is simple yet effective. The top-down view works well for the bullet-hell chaos that ensues, and the designs are charming in a "potato fighting for survival" kind of way. The controls are responsive, which is crucial when you're trying to juggle six weapons while dodging alien attacks.

"Brotato" is one of those games where you think, "Who comes up with this stuff?" But then you find yourself hours deep into playing, fully invested in your potato's survival. The game's accessibility options are a nice touch, allowing you to tweak difficulty settings to your liking.

In summary, "Brotato" is absurd, fun, and surprisingly engaging. It's not going to win awards for deep storytelling or groundbreaking graphics, but that's not the point. It's a game about a potato with guns - and sometimes, that's exactly what you need. If you're looking for a quirky, fun shooter with plenty of replayability, "Brotato" is definitely worth checking out.

"Euro Truck Simulator 2" by SCS Software - who knew that simulating the life of a long-haul trucker could be so oddly mesmerizing? Initially, I thought, "Why would anyone spend hours virtually driving a truck across Europe?" But here I am, hundreds of hours later, completely hooked on this strangely therapeutic and intricate simulation.

The game's concept is simple: drive a truck, deliver cargo, earn money, and build your trucking empire. It sounds mundane, but the devil is in the details. The level of realism in "Euro Truck Simulator 2" is absurdly high. From obeying traffic laws to managing fuel consumption, the game turns the banal tasks of trucking into an art form.

Exploring the beautifully rendered landscapes of Europe behind the wheel of my meticulously customized truck was unexpectedly relaxing. The attention to detail in the scenery is impressive, and the day-night cycle adds to the immersive experience. Plus, there's something oddly satisfying about perfectly parking a 40-foot trailer.

The game's progression system is where it really shines. Starting from a humble beginning to eventually owning a fleet of trucks and hiring drivers gave me a sense of achievement that I never thought a trucking game could provide.

However, let's be real - "Euro Truck Simulator 2" isn't for the adrenaline junkies. If you're looking for high-speed chases or explosions, you'll be sorely disappointed. This game is about the zen of the open road, the quiet satisfaction of a job well done, and, of course, an inexplicable fascination with traffic regulations.

Multiplayer mode adds a social element, where you can convoy with friends or strangers. It's like social media on wheels but with less drama and more discussions about fuel efficiency.

In summary, "Euro Truck Simulator 2" is a game that, against all odds, manages to make the life of a truck driver engaging and surprisingly fun. It's a perfect blend of relaxation, strategy, and virtual tourism. For anyone who's ever dreamed of conquering the highways of Europe, or just wants a change from the usual gaming fare, this game is a bizarrely satisfying choice.

"Fallout 4," developed by Bethesda Game Studios, has been an expansive and captivating experience in the post-apocalyptic world. Set in a richly detailed open world, this game combines elements of survival, RPG, and adventure in a way that has kept me immersed for countless hours.

From the outset, the game's narrative gripped me. The story of emerging from Vault 111 into a devastated world, searching for my character's lost family, was both emotional and engaging. The choices I made throughout the game not only affected the storyline but also how I interacted with the various factions and characters, making every decision feel significant.

The game's open-world design is one of its strongest points. Exploring the ruins of Boston and the surrounding areas was a thrilling experience. Every location is filled with details, backstory, and potential danger, making exploration feel rewarding and sometimes nerve-wracking.

The crafting and settlement building feature was a standout aspect for me. Collecting resources and building my own bases provided a satisfying sense of progress and personalization. It was rewarding to see my settlements grow and thrive as I invested more time and resources into them.

Combat in "Fallout 4" is dynamic and enjoyable. The V.A.T.S. system adds a strategic layer to encounters, allowing me to pause the action and target specific enemy areas. The variety of weapons and mods available kept combat fresh and exciting.

Graphically, "Fallout 4" is a spectacle. The post-apocalyptic environment is beautifully rendered, with stunning lighting and detailed textures. The character designs and animations add to the immersive experience of the game world.

However, the game is not without its flaws. Technical issues like bugs and glitches were occasional distractions, and the dialogue system sometimes felt limiting compared to previous Fallout titles.

In summary, "Fallout 4" offers a rich and immersive open-world experience. Its combination of deep narrative, expansive exploration, and engaging gameplay mechanics makes it a must-play for fans of the RPG and open-world genres. The game is a testament to Bethesda's ability to create a compelling and vast wasteland filled with endless possibilities.

"FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD Remaster" is a masterful revival of two of the most iconic games in the Final Fantasy series. As a longtime fan of the franchise, revisiting the world of Spira in stunning HD was a nostalgic and breathtaking experience.

The remaster of "FINAL FANTASY X" brought back so many memories. The captivating story of Tidus and Yuna, set against the backdrop of a world threatened by the colossal Sin, was as emotionally impactful as I remembered. The voice acting, cutscenes, and the beautifully composed soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu were enhanced, making the experience even more immersive.

One of the highlights for me was the Sphere Grid system, which allows for deep customization of characters. Re-exploring this system with its intricate paths and numerous abilities was as rewarding as ever. The turn-based combat felt strategic and engaging, offering a satisfying challenge.

"FINAL FANTASY X-2" returned with its unique and more lighthearted charm. The sequel, focusing on Yuna's journey, is a departure in tone but remains faithful to the world and characters. The fast-paced combat and Dressphere system provided a fresh and dynamic gameplay experience.

The HD remaster significantly improves the graphics of both games. The character models, environments, and visual effects have been beautifully updated, bringing new life to Spira. It was a joy to see my favorite characters and locations rendered with such detail.

The inclusion of additional content like the international versions' extras and rearranged music tracks added value to the package. It was a treat to explore content that was previously unavailable in the original North American releases.

In conclusion, "FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD Remaster" is a must-play for both fans of the series and newcomers. The games have stood the test of time, offering compelling stories, deep gameplay, and an enchanting world. This remaster is a loving tribute to two classic games, beautifully bringing them into the modern era.

"Green Hell" by Creepy Jar is a survival game that has taken me on a harrowing journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest. This game stands out in the survival genre with its focus on realism and psychological elements, providing an intense and immersive experience.

From the moment I started playing, I was struck by the game's incredible attention to detail. The Amazonian rainforest is beautifully rendered, with a rich diversity of flora and fauna that brings the setting to life. The environment is not just a backdrop but a crucial element of the survival experience, with dynamic weather and a changing ecosystem that constantly challenged my adaptability.

Survival in "Green Hell" is demanding and realistic. I had to learn and apply real survival techniques, such as starting fires, building shelters, and crafting tools and weapons. The game's complex health system, which includes physical and psychological aspects, added depth to the survival mechanics. Managing my character's nutrition, wounds, and mental health was as crucial as defending against the dangers of the jungle.

The psychological thriller aspect of the game is particularly compelling. The isolation and constant threat of the jungle take a toll on the character's mind, leading to intense and sometimes disturbing scenarios. This added a layer of psychological horror that made my experience even more gripping.

However, the game's steep learning curve and unforgiving nature might not be for everyone. It requires patience and persistence to master, and the challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. But for those who enjoy a realistic and in-depth survival experience, "Green Hell" is incredibly rewarding.

In summary, "Green Hell" is an exceptional survival game that offers a unique and challenging experience. Its realistic survival mechanics, combined with the psychological elements and stunning environment, make it a game that I would highly recommend to fans of the genre. It's a journey that tests not only survival skills but also the resilience of the human spirit.

"Goat Simulator" by Coffee Stain Studios is a game that defies conventional gaming norms and delivers an experience filled with absurdity and hilarity. When I first launched the game, I was immediately thrown into a world where I could explore and cause mayhem as a goat, and it was an experience like no other.

The game's premise is simple yet brilliantly executed. You control a goat with the primary goal of causing as much destruction as possible. This open-world sandbox allows for endless fun, as I found myself experimenting with different ways to wreak havoc in the most ridiculous manners imaginable.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of "Goat Simulator" is its intentionally buggy and over-the-top physics. Watching my goat catapult through the air after a trampoline bounce or headbutt an object into oblivion was consistently entertaining. The game embraces its flaws, turning them into a source of comedic gold.

The variety of environments and the sheer randomness of interactions kept the gameplay fresh and amusing. I could spend hours exploring, climbing, and finding new ways to interact with the world. The addition of various goat modifications and power-ups added a layer of replayability and surprise.

However, "Goat Simulator" is not without its downsides. The novelty can wear off after extended play, and the lack of structured objectives might not appeal to everyone. But for those looking for a game to simply relax and laugh with, it's a perfect choice.

The game's humor and parody of simulation games are spot on. It's a lighthearted take on the genre that doesn't take itself too seriously, which is a refreshing change of pace. The Steam Workshop support for creating and sharing content adds even more to the experience, offering a sense of community engagement.

In conclusion, "Goat Simulator" is a game that offers an escape into a world of absurdity and fun. It's a perfect game for those moments when you just want to unwind and enjoy some mindless entertainment. While it may not be a traditional gaming experience, its charm and humor make it a memorable and enjoyable one.

"It Takes Two" is a game that redefines the cooperative gaming experience. Developed by Hazelight Studios and published by Electronic Arts, this game has been a delightful adventure from start to finish, filled with innovation, creativity, and heart.

As soon as I started playing "It Takes Two," I was captivated by its unique premise. The game tells the story of Cody and May, a couple on the brink of divorce who find themselves magically turned into dolls. This setup led to a narrative that was not only engaging but also deeply moving, exploring themes of relationships, cooperation, and understanding.

The gameplay mechanics are where "It Takes Two" truly shines. Each level introduces new and creative challenges that require real cooperation between players. The puzzles are cleverly designed, requiring both players to communicate and work together to progress. This led to some truly memorable gaming sessions with my friend, filled with both laughter and intense coordination.

The variety in gameplay is astonishing. From action-packed sequences to intricate puzzles, every level feels fresh and exciting. The game seamlessly blends different genres, making each chapter a surprise. One moment I was navigating through a whimsical fantasy landscape, and the next, I was in a high-speed chase.

Graphically, the game is a feast for the eyes. The imaginative world is beautifully rendered, and the attention to detail in the environments is impressive. The character animations are fluid, and the overall visual style complements the whimsical yet emotional tone of the game.

The story of "It Takes Two" is both heartwarming and humorous. The journey of Cody and May, with their witty banter and evolving relationship, was captivating. The narrative does an excellent job of paralleling the gameplay, as the challenges the characters face in the game world mirror their struggles in their relationship.

In conclusion, "It Takes Two" is a must-play for anyone who enjoys cooperative gaming. Its inventive gameplay, stunning visuals, and touching story make it a standout title. It's a game that not only entertains but also reminds us of the importance of collaboration and understanding in relationships. A true masterpiece in co-op gaming.

"New World" by Amazon Games has been an intriguing and immersive experience for me. Set on the supernatural island of Aeternum, this open-world MMO has captivated me with its blend of beautiful landscapes, deep crafting systems, and engaging combat.

From the start, the game's stunning visuals and detailed world design drew me in. Exploring the diverse environments, from lush forests to haunting ruins, has been a visual treat. The attention to detail in the world's design adds a rich layer to the exploration.

The combat system is robust and satisfying. I appreciated the real-time action and the freedom to specialize in different combat styles. Whether using traditional melee weapons, ranged artillery, or harnessing supernatural powers, each battle felt dynamic and exciting.

Crafting and resource gathering are integral parts of the game, and I found these systems to be deep and rewarding. The ability to gather materials and craft a wide array of items, from simple tools to complex weapons, added a meaningful sense of progression.

Playing with others is where "New World" really shines. Joining forces with friends to tackle challenges, claim territories, and engage in large-scale PvP battles added an extra thrill to my gaming sessions. The social aspect of forming and being part of a faction brought a sense of camaraderie and purpose.

However, the game is not without its challenges. Balancing in PvP and some technical issues have been a concern. Despite these issues, the continuous updates and active community support show the developers' commitment to improving the game.

In conclusion, "New World" offers a compelling and rich MMO experience. Its beautiful world, engaging combat, and deep crafting systems make it a game worth exploring for fans of the genre. While there are areas for improvement, the overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive for me.

I recently delved into the world of "Moon Hunters," a game that combines RPG elements with a unique storytelling approach. The game's premise of exploring an ancient, mystical world that changes every time you play was immediately captivating to me.

As I embarked on my journey, the game's mythology-building aspect stood out. Every choice I made seemed to contribute to my legend, influencing how the world and its inhabitants reacted to me. This made every playthrough feel personal and impactful, as if I were truly carving out my own story in the stars.

The cooperative aspect of the game was a delightful surprise. Playing with friends added another layer of depth, as our decisions collectively shaped our adventure. The different character classes, each with their unique abilities and gameplay styles, allowed me to experiment and find my preferred playstyle, which I found very engaging.

The game's art style and music beautifully complemented the Mesopotamian-inspired setting, creating an enchanting atmosphere that drew me deeper into the game world. The landscapes were diverse, each filled with secrets and lore that piqued my curiosity.

However, I did find that the game's replayability, while a strong point, could sometimes lead to a feeling of repetitiveness. Despite this, the desire to uncover all the different outcomes and constellations kept me coming back for more.

The community's positive feedback on Steam mirrors my experience with "Moon Hunters." The game is a refreshing take on the RPG genre, offering a blend of mythology, adventure, and cooperative gameplay that is rare to find.

In summary, "Moon Hunters" provided me with a rich, engaging experience that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys cooperative RPGs and the allure of myth-building. It's a game that invites players to not only explore its world but to leave their mark upon it.