Out of Bounds

  Ratchet & Clank (2002) : The Review Score:  7.5 out of 10 Overview : "The original Ratchet & Clank is a nostalgic gem that introduced players to the dynamic duo and their intergalactic adventures. As the start of one of PlayStation’s most iconic franchises, the game offers a mix of platforming, combat, and humor that feels fresh even today. While it shows its age in certain areas, such as uneven difficulty and dated mechanics, its charm, creativity, and memorable worlds make it a standout title from the PlayStation 2 era. This debut may not be perfect, but it laid the groundwork for one of gaming's most beloved series. " The Positives The game introduces the series' now-famous arsenal of inventive weapons and gadgets. From the Bomb Glove to the Devastator, the variety of tools available keeps combat engaging and fun. Experimenting with different weapons and upgrading them adds a layer of strategy and satisfaction to the gameplay; Ratchet & Clank take...

The Last of Us: Part II : The Review Score:  10 out of 10 Overview : "One of the most divisive games of all time, The Last of Us: Part II is a masterclass in character building, crafting a story that pushes the boundaries in what video game storytelling can become in the future. Building on the foundations of its predecessor, this sequel delivers an uncompromising and harrowing narrative that explores themes of vengeance, loss, and the cost of survival. It's a perfect (even if divisive) sequel that brings The Last of Us franchise into the high peak of gaming. " The Positives The story of "The Last of Us: Part II" is as daring as it is divisive, offering a nuanced exploration of morality, revenge, and humanity. The dual perspectives of Ellie and Abby provide a profound look at the cyclical nature of violence, forcing players to confront their own biases and expectations. The narrative never shies away from difficult topics, delivering moments that are as shockin...

The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe : The Review Score: 7.5 out of 10 Overview : " The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe reimagines the cult classic, expanding its meta-commentary and existential humor while staying true to the original’s quirky charm. With new content that pokes fun at gaming tropes, narrative design, and even its own legacy, it’s a delightful return to a world where choices—and the lack thereof—are the central themes. However, while the fresh material brings some surprises, the overall experience can feel stretched thin, with certain sections lacking the originality that made the first game so groundbreaking." The Positives The game’s signature fourth-wall-breaking commentary is sharper than ever, offering hilarious insights on player agency, game design, and the nature of storytelling itself. It’s witty, self-aware, and often laugh-out-loud funny; The new additions in Ultra Deluxe bring fresh surprises, with expanded endings and scenarios that cleverly riff o...

From Caped Crusaders to Supervillains: The Fall of Rocksteady Studios Rocksteady Games, once celebrated for its groundbreaking Batman: Arkham trilogy, has faced a turbulent transition to its latest project, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League . The studio earned acclaim and numerous awards for its innovative storytelling, atmospheric world-building, and engaging gameplay mechanics in the Arkham series. However, the shift to a multiplayer-focused, live-service game featuring the Suicide Squad has raised concerns about the studio's direction and the potential dilution of its once-stellar reputation. The Arkham trilogy—comprising Arkham Asylum , Arkham City , and Arkham Knight —set a high standard for superhero games. Released between 2009 and 2015, these titles were not only commercially successful but also critically acclaimed. They revolutionized the superhero genre, introducing a compelling blend of narrative depth, character development, and fluid combat mechanics. The combi...

Road 96 : The Review Score:  8 out of 10 Overview : " Road 96 is a bold, procedurally-generated adventure that takes players on an emotional journey through a politically charged and deeply personal narrative. By blending road trip mechanics, decision-driven gameplay, and a vibrant soundtrack, the game crafts a unique experience where every choice matters. While its replayability and compelling storytelling are standout features, minor pacing issues and occasional repetitiveness hold it back from reaching its full potential. Still, Road 96 is a thrilling, heartfelt odyssey that lingers long after the credits roll. " The Positives The story captures the desperation, hope, and resilience of its young protagonists. By intertwining personal tales with broader political themes, Road 96 delivers a thought-provoking experience that feels relevant and impactful; Each playthrough offers a unique journey, with random events and encounters that keep the gameplay fresh. This design e...

Dreamcore : The Review Score:  5.5 out of 10 Overview : " Dreamcore is an atmospheric yet simple exploration of some of the internet's most recent horror tropes. Both levels we played in the review period, felt under-cooked and uninspired making us wanting to spend our time playing other recreations of these famous horror tales." The Experience Dreamcore  shows a lot of promise with its concept, exploring these horror worlds in a different perspective. We'll be taking a look at both levels separately as they features individual positives and negatives: Level 1 ( Dreampools ) - Dreampools is another take on the "backrooms" formula, one that unfortunately, doesn't shine in this new iteration. The puzzle that takes place during the first half of the level is probably the highlight of the entire game by creating a scenario where the player has to be in a constant "focus" mode to solve it. It shows that the developers do know how to make these wor...