Hue Review

An intelligent puzzle platformer with heart

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on PlayStation 4

A vivid platformer, “Hue” uses color as both a puzzle-solving technique and a factor of storytelling.

I knew nothing more of “Hue” than the fact that it looked like some sort of platformer; I got it for free with PlayStation Plus and gave it a whirl. To my utmost pleasure, this game kept me playing and engaged thanks to a delightful story and interesting gameplay. With both calming music and clever level design from beginning to end, this puzzle platformer was a joy to play through and ultimately made me wish there was more color-altering puzzles to partake in.

Injustice 2 Review

A polished and content-heavy fighting game for veterans and newcomers alike.

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan
Reviewed on PlayStation 4

Injustice 2 provides game modes to keep players coming back for more all day long, simultaneously boasting a beloved roster and fast, polished gameplay.

I was drawn to Injustice 2 for the exciting roster of DC Comics characters and the ability to alter gear but I never thought it would take up so much of my time. The gear system is deep and personable. There is so much to customize to your liking and Injustice 2 boasts dynamic game modes to assist that. Thanks to all this and the cinematic beauty it is during fights and in its campaign, Injustice 2 is one of the best fighting games in recent years and impossible to put down.

Gone Home: Console Edition Review

A compelling narrative unfolded through a curious home

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on Xbox One

“Gone Home” uses simple exploration-based gameplay to lead up to an an ultimately interesting story with a lot of heart and authenticity.

Despite only taking a couple of hours to stumble upon everything that it had to say, the story “Gone Home” offers is one grounded in realism, one that never lost my attention. The game’s exceptional writing and wondrous attention to detail makes for a sweet, unforgettable adventure and a particularly special one for the medium.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Review

Gorgeous visuals and plentiful content make up the premiere kart-racing experience

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on Nintendo Switch

“Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” comes packed with fun game modes, vehicle parts to unlock, scores to beat and an overall delightful experience, given a new breath of life on the Switch.

Having missed out on the Wii-U altogether, I knew I wanted “Mario Kart 8’s” updated version for my new Switch and fortunately this purchase was entirely justified. “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” includes a bevy of courses to choose from, an online mode, the ability to play with friends in a split second and more, all making it the complete package.

Celeste Review

A challenging and rewarding platformer with heart and an important message 

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on Nintendo Switch

“Celeste” is truly one of a kind thanks to tight and responsive, challenging gameplay and a surprisingly heartfelt story.

After everybody in the gaming industry’s praise for “Celeste” caught on to me, I eventually spread the good word to others. “Celeste” is a fantastic platformer with impressively challenging but rewarding gameplay. More importantly however is the plot that brings together deep themes like anxiety and inner demons, brilliantly crafting an unforgettable narrative to complement the wondrous level design.

Cuphead Review

Cartoons of the 30’s are revived in a gorgeous test of patience, skill and charm.

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on Xbox One

“Cuphead” is a visual masterpiece with some of the most challenging gameplay its genre has to offer, coupled with utmost charm.

This indie game proves to be a an incredibly worthwhile experience thanks to its unique art direction alone. A series of increasingly difficult boss fights make the shoot em' up an exhilarating time. This is all backed up by a feeling of pure satisfaction upon each level completion. Mastering the difficult challenges and admiring the visuals and music all complement each other’s addition to the overall joy that is “Cuphead.”

Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus Review

Nonstop action coupled with a powerful story

By: Ryan Ramakrishnan

Reviewed on Xbox One

“Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus” is a glorified sequel, upping the ante with an intriguing and absurdly powerful character-driven story in addition to fine-tuned, high octane gunplay.

Picking up just months after the events of 2014’s “Wolfenstein: The New Order,” the sequel comes packed with memorable characters and brutal moments alike. Thanks to intense gunplay and an enthralling story with realistic themes, “Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus” is a fantastic shooter and follow up to to an already great predecessor.