APride

The story really leaves a lot to be desired, and isn't as gripping as I was expecting it to be. I haven't played Returnal, so I'm not sure if this is something that should've been expected, but I was seriously let down by the gun variety in this game. There are only really 3-4 viable weapon options. The skill tree is also incredibly basic, with very few unique character abilities that you can sink points into. 90% of it is giving you the option of adding to your health pool, currency collection rate, or increasing power. Additionally, the metroidvania-esque blocking off of certain areas does get under your skin at some points, especially since there's no real reason to track back to previous locations to unlock those areas with new equipment. Overall... this was very meh.

Undeniable 10 in my opinion. From the soundtrack to the narrative. A breath of fresh air with the quality of story that's been missing from AAA games for a decade+. I was growing bored of videogames, and I just thought it was because I was getting older. This game made me realize that wasn't the case. I was missing the type of game where you couldn't help but feel the love and soul poured into the work by the developers, writers, artists, etc. This is one of those games.

Beautiful game with a fantastic and emotional story. Gameplay has been expanded since the first title, but it is still very much a stealth-centered experience. Absolute pleasure to engage with this narrative experience. Massive kudos to the devs and writers. Brilliant close to a unique series.

I've never played a game set during a plague in medieval times. It's a very unique setting and I think a lot of my positive impressions are due to this. The game overall is enjoyable, though it is *very* easy. Solutions to puzzles don't take more than 5 minutes to figure out. Solutions to stealth segments are very clearly telegraphed to the player. I never once had to worry about conserving ammo or the items required to craft ammo. The only times I died were due to me being completely oblivious about the situation. I wish stealth was pushed more onto the player as well. For the vast majority of enemy encounters, knocking them with a couple slingshot hits is the easiest and quickest way to get done with a chapter. Why would I choose to be stealthy when I can practically run past the level? Granted, there are sequences where you *have* to be stealthy, but these are few and far between. This is baby's first stealth game for sure. The story is decent. It is carried by the interactions and relationship between Amicia and Hugo. Over the course of the game you feel their bond grow bigger and stronger, as well as your own desire to protect Hugo. Other characters are also likeable, but the voice acting for one of them makes it tough to enjoy their presence. Most voice actors did a great job though. The dialogue can be cringey at times, and downright goose-bumps inducing at others. What's most surprising to me is how an unknown game developer was able to push out a game this good. I'm excited to see what they put out next. I would definitely recommend this game for someone who wants a unique narrative experience, but not really for someone who wants a good gaming experience. TL;DR Dialogue can be great at some times, terrible at others. Visuals are great. Story is ok. Voice acting is fantastic for the most part. Gameplay is a bit boring and unstimulating. The game holds your hand more often than Amicia holds Hugos. The setting is amazing. The music is great.