DeVuego

For a game limited to a single location, Grotto does a surprising amount with it. The constant visitation of the cave gives you plenty of interaction and the use of the constellations can feel relatively novel. The writing works well to weave these little decisions together and give off the impression of a larger narrative. It does settle into a repetitive loop but I was still determined to see it through. It's unique enough to recommend and I do find it a memorable and atmospheric experience.

Lords of the Fallen is a game I really wanted to like. The seamless transition between worlds is a joy to witness but it wears out its welcome quickly. Combat feels weighty and has plenty of neat twists. Unfortunately, the enemy hordes make engaging with combat feel like a chore. Level design hits some highs but the lows are agonising to traverse and I just left this game feeling frustrated. It's divisive, oppressive and I just can't bring myself to fully recommend it.

System of Souls is a clever puzzler that does deliver some tricky and smart challenges. There's not much in the way of deceit, allowing players to see the task ahead and worry about execution. It's not mind-bending but there is some frustration on hand when the occasionally erratic physics intervene. As well presented as the levels are, I found the narrative fell flat and there are definitely times where things can feel very sterile. The puzzles are worth seeing although the lack of a level select does mean replaying can feel a bit of a slog.

TAPE: Unveil the Memories is a game that does occasionally show moments of class. The time rewinding gimmick does lead to some interesting puzzles and the plot is wonderfully grim. At times, the presentation manages to surprise me with distorting hallways and clever transitions. Unfortunately, it's also saddled with some cheaper elements and a monster that isn't that intimidating. Unfortunately, the pace bogs down in the final act.

When all is said and done, The Song Out of Space feels undercooked. The cast seems interesting enough but they're sparingly used in a plot that's all too short. Couple that with the rather unsightly presentation and I have a tough time recommending this. There are spots of intrigue in the plot that are all too hurriedly tied up and replaying doesn't add that much to the fuller picture.

As brief as it is, I’ve enjoyed it. There’s definitely a small project feel to Twogether: Project Indigos Chapter 1 but there’s a good foundation here. The aesthetic is colourful and clean and really pleasing on the eye. As slight as the narrative is, there’s an interesting premise on offer that could be built upon. It’s intriguing and, whilst the puzzles felt relatively simple, I’m eager to know where it goes from here.  As an entirely single-player effort, it works well.

Daydream Software have delivered a competent sports title in eCrossminton. Content is sparse with modes being basic but the core components do provide an enjoyable time. Applying direction takes effort but timing your shots feel rewarding. Presentation lacks some flamboyance and the ICO licensing adds very little. It's a shame what content is there needs to be unlocked in a relatively slow rate and the roster lacks some personality.

Submersed ultimately makes some key decisions which will frustrate. Enemies are relentless and inventory management feels botched, leading to you require prior knowledge to advance. Stealth is functional but, more often than not, you're tasked with running from foes that are simply quicker and deadlier than you. There's a punishment on offer here that doesn't fit the crime and, whilst the game tries to do well with a small budget, it can't execute on much of it.

Twin Robots struggles to elevate itself beyond an average experience. The lack of a narrative and the constant laboratory setting leave something lean and stagnant. Basic by design, there's little to recommend here. Local cooperative play might squeak some extra time out of what's a functional but bland effort.