Annette Magaña

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Annette Magaña·Dec 9, 2022

Critic50/100

Agreement—

Every time you use your partners’ skills, your relationship with them rises. They're pleasantly designed in a way that means you don't have ton rely on them, acting more as stun mechanics. In addition, these attacks help mask the game's numerous frame rate dips. Sadly, these drops, alongside your main character's stiff attacks, make Samurai Maiden's encounters much more frustrating than they should be.

Push Square

Annette Magaña·Oct 28, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

Ultimately, Saturnalia is one unique horror experience where the developer's own use of limited resources combine to create something compelling and unique.

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Annette Magaña·Oct 21, 2022

Critic60/100

Agreement—

At a glance, currencies such as TP, Spirit Syphons, Zeni, and the unreasonably expensive premium cosmetics, may emphasize predatory microtransaction tactics. However, daily and weekly challenges encourage playing rather than paying to win. That said, the grind can become unnecessarily long, even if you're just looking to buy some new clothes for your character.

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Annette Magaña·Sep 29, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

Still, with enough humour and its fun game mechanics, Let’s Build A Zoo will have you sinking hours into your park, if you can get past its poor UI and lack of guidance.

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Annette Magaña·Sep 29, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

Other than the puzzle conundrum, the second season offers more of what made the series a hit. Fans of the first season will greatly enjoy this second run. While it isn't necessary to play the first one to jump on this wagon, it is highly recommended, as there are plenty of returning characters and in-game jokes and references that you might miss if you have not played the first one yet.

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Annette Magaña·Sep 15, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

With a lovely cast and setting, Wayward Strand is sure to land into your heart even if it does lack gameplay essentials such as more frequent save points or, at the very least, a skip button.

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Annette Magaña·Aug 24, 2022

Critic50/100

Agreement—

There's fun to be had here in multiplayer, but it does wear thin. The lack of online and the emphasis on unlockables through the sub-standard single player drags the overall package down.

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Annette Magaña·Aug 22, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

Other than a few frame rate issues, the game runs smoothly most of the time, which is essential given its heavy emphasis on platforming. This and missed gameplay opportunities don't stop the game from being a cute and compelling 3D platformer. Exploring a civilisation built upon books and rulers is a delight to travel around and unwind with of an evening.

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Annette Magaña·Jul 31, 2022

Critic50/100

Agreement—

While it's hard to be too critical, considering the entire project was developed by one person and a small staff, it's also hard to even call this a full game. It's a shame because its graphics rival tentpole AAA productions and there's clear passion to deliver a satisfying gameplay loop. But a lacklustre story and repetitive pacing coupled with unnecessary additions such as the skills make Bright Memory: Infinite an uneven and jarring experience. Perhaps in the near future, given a bigger budget, developer FYQD Studio could make a more fully realised version.

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Annette Magaña·Jun 24, 2022

Critic70/100

Agreement—

But ultimately Astro Aqua Kitty blasts its way to PS5 with panache. With its Metroidvania formula, light RPG elements, strong presentation, and slick retro synth music, this is an old-school outing that manages to also feel contemporary.

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Annette Magaña·Sep 24, 2018

Critic80/100

Agreement—

Aside from a few mishaps in dialogue, Timespinner distinguishes itself with an absorbing story with interesting underlying themes. It stands out with a refreshing time travelling spin on combat that reflects the diversity of the level designs. Exploration, sans the tiny map, is enjoyable, with the past and present boasting unique music and mechanics to keep things fresh. Overall, this solid adventure is a great use of your time.

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Annette Magaña·Sep 16, 2018

Critic70/100

Agreement—

Shadow of the Tomb Raider shines in exploration, offering stunning scenic views that enrich the pursuit to walk among the greater open world. It's filled with rewarding puzzle platforming tombs that emphasise the return of new and old gameplay mechanics. However, the same can't be said for the story, as Lara's journey is concluded with a tired and tried formula that never reaches the potential it displays in certain cutscenes, despite its promising beginning.