All review keys have been provided by their publishers
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: We here at GameTyrant have been absolutely bombarded with so many games this year. We will be rolling out select quick reviews to let our audience know about games and DLC that may have slipped under their radar. We appreciate the amazing support from all publishers and developers out there!
Rugrats: Adventures In Gameland (Demo)
One of the highlights of Q1 for 2024, for me at least, was playing the demo for Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland. Brought to us by The MIX Games and Wallride, Adventures in Gameland is an adorable upcoming 2D platformer that allows players to waddle around as one of their favorite rugrats.
Complete with Tommy, Chuckie, Phil, and Lil, each level you’ll explore hosts a variety of collectibles, obstacles, and enemies to traverse. This is one of the most beautiful 2D games releasing this year, with vibrant colors and art ripped directly from the hit television show.
The game also allows players to switch between its modern visuals and good old 8-bit graphics. It does need some tightening up in the gameplay area, but it should be great once it releases. If you’re a fan of Rugrats, then Rugrats: Adventures in Gameland need to be on your Steam wishlist.
Outward Definitive Edition (Switch)
Where to begin with this one? There’s no doubt that Outward has seen quite a bit of praise over the years. What with its deep RPG mechanics and the scale of its world, there’s a lot for hardcore RPG fans to love. Recently, Outward: Definitive Edition was released on the Nintendo Switch. And honestly, I’m not too thrilled with it.
While Outward on the Nintendo Switch still holds the true essence of what the game means, it’s an honestly atrocious-looking port. I know that this is a huge game, but you can barely see more than a few yards ahead of you before things pop into frame. The draw distance is just horrible. Gameplay is decent enough but this definitely looks like one of the most barebones titles on this console.
The nail in the coffin for me though is the fact that it’s currently being sold for $39.99. This price point rings true for say, the Steam version, but I’d have to argue that this is just a really paired-down version of the game visually. Those who can should be avoiding this one unless it’s your only option of playing. Though looks aren’t everything, and this is a great title regardless but just be aware that this is the game in its lowest form.
Buckshot Roulette
Buckshot Roulette is a well-balanced, affordable game that offers something truly unique. Blending head-thumping club music with a creepy-pasta aesthetic and you have this game. A simple premise that ramps up as you push further and further into this deadly game of chance, Buckshot Roulette is a short title that sinks its teeth in from your first bout with it.
Once you go one round, you’ll continue until you finally beat the game. But that isn’t all, as this neat indie title does have some extra content post its short “campaign” of sorts. This is a buy if you’re into horror-adjacent content that’s just a unique vibe to enjoy.
Spirit City: Lofi Sessions
Out of any game that I’ve reviewed, Spirit City: Lofi Sessions has to be one of the most unique and useful to real-world scenarios. Though it features a cute and quirky anime-esque sheen, it features some in-game features that incentivize being productive in real life.
The name of the game is to unlock Spirits. To do so, you’ll need to customize your character, and your room, and complete real-world tasks in order to level up and find those Spirits. It’s a really cool idea that sticks the landing for me. I loved the customization options available, as I felt like I could really tailor the game to my desires.
The real-world tasks given are realistic and not tedious. This is a cozy game that compels people to take a step back and either relax or reflect on what needs to get done on their task list, with various in-game visuals and sounds to help them find their zen. I loved this title and hope that there are more like it to come in the future. I also really enjoyed seeing so many Trans Flag customization options made available for players.
