DeVuego LATAM

For us, we’d definitely have used colour better to differentiate unit types.  We’d have made the objectives a lot clearer.  We’d have released the camera so that it helps rather than hinders.  And we’d have done something about the game’s main menu which is pretty poorly designed (it’s like a mobile game design but sort of nonsensical).  But, equally, we’re not games developers and couldn’t make something like this if we had ten years and our lives depended on it.  Still, it seems like most of the game’s issues could have been solved with stronger playtesting.  And, honestly, we feel like dicks for even complaining this much but a game’s either got it or it hasn’t and Match Village just hasn’t.

Anyone looking to revisit the Top Racer series will have a blast with this collection. The racing remains fluid and engrossing. Having all three games here means players can see how the series evolved over time, although Top Racer Crossroads feels more like tweak on existing content rather than something wholly new. Online multiplayer is a welcome addition whilst autosaves and save states makes individual races easier to repeat. I don't think the new menus combine well with the older graphics but the effort that's gone into this product is pretty commendable.

Compared to a lot of run-and-gun games though, Wild Dogs is cut above some of the recent retro-inspired efforts. We were pleased that it held off on including any metroidvania-style mazey level layouts and didn’t slow down the action with too many puzzles but after being sent back to the start one too many times, it was hard to keep the enthusiasm for this one.

There is some promise here though but R-Next really need to level up when it comes to getting the most out of the platforms they are programming for and they need to place more emphasis on fun when it comes to the gameplay.  They’ve clearly got some raw talent though and so hopefully their next effort will be better.

Fobia – St. Dinfna Hotel is a really good survival horror title. Yes there is combat but it’s in the exploration and puzzle solving that the game really shines. These puzzles take a little brain power and you need to be observant to get all the optional ones too. It’s really rewarding to get through. If it’s that element of this genre that appeals to you then check this one out, it’s well worth the time.

In conclusion, What Lies in the Multiverse is a fun platform game with some well thought out puzzles, just the script translation lets things down a little bit. What might be earnest in the original Spanish comes across a wee bit flat in English.

Ponpu is a great twist on a classic formula with just the right amount of oddness thrown into the mix. At least Purple Tree didn’t call Ponpu ‘Bomber Duck’ instead, as there’s far more to it than just the basic Bomberman formula. The bosses are well implemented and you’ll be satisfied with the iterative process necessary to beat them.

In conclusion, Bug Fables is a very good action RPG which you’ll want to keep playing for ages. If The Everlasting Sapling subtitle is a hint that this is the first of a series, we look forward to a sequel.