The Legend of Tian Ding takes you on a journey into the depths of Taiwanese history and culture, through fast-paced combat and platforming. This game puts its own spin on the legend of Liao Tian Ding, a Taiwanese Robin Hood-like character, while remaining true to his character. With its mix of kung fu combat and platforming, this game is sure to satisfy any itch for an action-packed adventure set in Taiwan's past.
What we like:
Fast-paced combat and platforming
Rich story based on real events
Charming manhua aesthetic
Atmospheric soundtrack
Freedom to chain abilities in combat & movement
Variety of secrets hidden throughout levels
What could be improved:
Cutscenes can be too long & unskippable at times
Uneven progression with upgrades only available later in the game
Streets of Rage 4 is the long awaited fourth entry into the classic Sega franchise. It features a blend of old and new, with classic characters such as Axel and Adam Hunter returning alongside a new main character, Cherry. All characters have unique playstyles, from Axel's powerful punches to Cherry's speedy strikes. There are tons of unlockables to discover and it has an amazing soundtrack.
ActRaiser Renaissance is a video game where you play as God rebuilding human civilization destroyed by evil. With two main parts, simulation and sidescrolling action, guiding and defending your village against monsters is incredibly fun. The challenge ramps up gradually with time, making it addicting. The combat system is competent, with various enemy types, hidden power-ups, and expanded controls. The game is meticulously crafted, genuinely improves on the original game, and maintains the spirit of what made it special. ActRaiser Renaissance is a dark horse to become game of the year and is suitable for players who love simulation and sidescrolling games.
What we like:
Fun tower-defense style missions
Meticulously crafted simulation and sidescrolling parts
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an exploration-focused, side-scroller action RPG by Koji Igarashi. Play as Miriam, an orphan scarred by an alchemist's curse that slowly crystallizes her body. Battle through a demon-infested castle and defeat its master to save yourself, and all of humanity!
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ICEY is a 2D side-scrolling action game and a META game in disguise. As you follow the narrator's omnipresent voice, you will see through ICEY's eyes and learn the truth about her world. The narrator will constantly urge you in one direction, but you must ask, "Why? Why am I following his directions?“ Obey? Rebel?
