Press X to Not Die

Press X to Not Die

Combining quick time events with nothing more than full motion videos sound like a recipe for disaster and yet Press X Not To Die is way more fun than it has any right to be. Designed to be a throwback to the “interactive movie” titles of the early 90s, the game throws you headfirst into what seems to be a zombie apocalypse. The whole town is in chaos, people are viciously attacking each other and the only advice you got from a friend before he is murdered is to “press X not to die.”

Kameo: Elements Of Power

Kameo: Elements Of Power

As far as launch titles go Kameo is quite impressive, but if you were expecting something radically new and different be prepared for disappointment. There are some good ideas packed in the game, but the sloppy controls and repetitive gameplay soon show through the pretty visuals. It’s not a complete disaster, but falls short of what it could have been.

Gameplay: The controls let it down a lot, but if you are a platform fan there’s fun to be had.

Graphics: Very good, but the quality is a bit uneven.

Sound: Epic soundtrack, but the usual mediocre voice acting

Dusty Revenge:Co-Op Edition

Dusty Revenge:Co-Op Edition

Don’t let the cartoon style visuals fool you, Dusty Revenge is a brutal and violent game. It is also a very playable game with satisfying combat where you can pull off plenty of combo attacks. The game feels all lot like classic side scrolling beat ’em ups like TMNT and Streets of Rage. The co-op mode also adds to the fun, although sadly it is local only.

Gameplay: Traditional side scrolling beat ’em up.

Graphics: Beautiful backgrounds and unique character designs.

Sound: Fitting music and solid sound effects

Just Cause

Just Cause

Just Cause starts with a bang, but runs out of steam way too early. The huge gameworld is certainly impressive, but up close the flaws are all too apparent. Once you add in easy missions, repetitive gameplay and a lot of annoying quirks the shine soon wears off. There is still loads of fun to be had by messing around, but do not expect this to be close to Grand Theft Auto.

Gameplay: Had a lot of potential, but unfortunately fall somewhat short.

Graphics: Very impressive from a distance, but not so good up close.

Sound: Not very memorable

All Guns On Deck (Decaying Logic)

All Guns On Deck (Decaying Logic)

Seemingly satisfied with dominating the jigsaw puzzle genre on Steam, Decaying Logic has turned their attention naval combat. Well, strategy, real time tactics, action RPG, and naval combat to be exact. Combining all these genres into something that not only works, but is actually fun to play is quite a task, which is why the developers opted for Early Access to ensure everything is done right

Pulstar

Pulstar

Pulstar is a very straightforward arcade shooter so depending on your taste you will either find it a refreshing blast from the past or become frustrated after only a few minutes. It definitely packs quite a challenge and the difficulty ramps up very quickly, so quick reflexes and a bit of luck is required to make the most of it. If you enjoyed games like Geometry Wars and Beat Hazard you will have fun with Pulstar.

Gameplay: Straightforward and challenging arcade shooter.

Graphics: Nice, but it can be hard to distinguish the enemies from the background at times.

Sound: The sound effects lack punch, but the music is very catchy

METAL SLUG 3

METAL SLUG 3

I have to confess that I am a huge fan of the Metal Slug series and number three is one of my all time favorites. It has been fourteen years since the game was originally released in arcades, but it has lost none of its charm or playability. It once again hooked me right from the start and prompted quite a few playthroughs even though I am very familiar with the levels. Veteran players are in for a nostalgic blast from the past while newcomers have a chance to see why this game is so highly regarded by fans of the genre.

Gameplay: An action packed run and gun title with awesome vehicle and huge bosses.

Graphics: The 2D visuals looked excellent way back in 2000 and still hold up great to this day.

Sound: As chaotic as you would expect from an arcade title

LocoCycle

LocoCycle

LocoCycle is a game that revels in it’s cheesy b-movie plot and backs it up with some nice arcade-style gameplay. Alternating between shooting cars off the road or beating up flying bad guys with martial arts moves is as entertaining as it is wacky. It’s not the longest or most in-depth game we’ve ever played, but it is definitely worth the low asking price.

Gameplay: An arcade-like experience which lacks depth, but is a lot of fun.

Graphics: Nice character detail, but the environments feels a bit sparse.

Sound: A nice performance from the Prague Symphony Orchestra and solid voice acting

KickBeat Steam Edition

KickBeat Steam Edition

I have played many Rhythm action games over the years and KickBeat is definitely one that is as entertaining to watch as it is to play. Defeating opponents to the beat of the music is exhilarating stuff and it is made even better by the smooth animations. If you tire of the included music you can also import your own giving this game a lot of replay value.

Gameplay: A unique take on the Rhythm action genre.

Graphics: The visuals have been enhanced for the Steam release and look better than ever.

Sound: Six new tracks boost the complete list to a total of 24 tunes

Guacamelee! Gold Edition

Guacamelee! Gold Edition

I was immediately drawn in by the charming visuals, but it was the gameplay that really hooked me. Combat remains entertaining without becoming tedious and the platform sections manage to mix in some brain teasers along with the precision jumping. It is very encouraging to see gems like this emerge from an already crowded genre, so don’t hesitate to snag this game.

Gameplay: This game is a joy to play.

Graphics: Crisp, detailed and very stylish visuals.

Sound: Packed with earworms!