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Articles by Tom Wilson
Why Does One of the Biggest Gaming Franchises Have No Good Games?
It isn’t often that hugely successful gaming franchises fail to hit the market when it comes to their video game offerings. While it is undeniable that most of the iconic game franchises have a few duds in their midst, the majority of them, if not practically all of them, have at least one great game. It is only logical, as, without one truly remarkable title, you’d wonder how it would become such a smash hit in the first place.
Baldur's Gate 3 Has a Companion Problem, and It's Ruining the Game for Me
Baldur’s Gate 3 has many amazing qualities, all of which have been discussed, praised, and showcased ad nauseam. In fact, it barely warrants mentioning just how phenomenal an RPG Baldur’s Gate 3 is. Perhaps this is why I find it so difficult to discuss the things it gets wrong. It isn’t that there are so few faults with the game; rather, the distractingly wonderful aspects of BG3 obfuscate any meaningful discussion surrounding its weaker points.
Overwatch 2's Rebrand Won't Save It, But I Know What Will
It is bizarre to me that the once beloved and seemingly untouchable Overwatch could suffer such a significant decline in popularity, to the point that it feels as if all other hero shooters have superseded it. Overwatch was the gold standard for the sub-genre, a triumph in character, game, and map design, and an experience that many, myself included, felt would never tarnish, never waver in its excellence, and never get old.
This Criminally Underrated 2021 Game Restored My Love of Gaming
As a games journalist, one would expect that my love for the medium would endure, no matter what. I had always assumed that every Direct, State of Play, and Developer Direct would continue to instill in me the same unbridled sense of hype and joy that I got long before I worked within the industry, that every reveal, trailer, and experience would sustain my nostalgia-driven hunger for fresh new games.
One of the Greatest FPS Game Is One Absolutely No One Talks About
There are so many incredible FPS games available right now that it is no surprise a few fall through the cracks. Every now and then, a truly remarkable title will come along, bizarrely underperform, and exit the zeitgeist without so much as a faint whisper of admiration. It is, of course, a testament to just how many amazing games we’ve been treated to over the past two decades, at least, but nevertheless a genuine shame each and every time it happens.
One of the Worst-Reviewed Games of All Time Needs Another Chance
There are a lot of truly terrible video games out there that are undoubtedly undeserving of your time or anyone else’s. These games are often low-effort cash grabs with few redeeming qualities even worth discussing. Fortunately, in our age of abundance, it’s rather easy to overlook said titles and pick out those more favorably reviewed. However, while this is a worthwhile strategy in most cases, it can also lead to some genuinely great games being overlooked due to an initially poor reception.
After 20 Years, Final Fantasy's Most Hated Game Is Worth Revisiting
Final Fantasy has had a rare and remarkably impressive track record of great quality experiences since its inception. For the most part, if you decide to play any of the mainline or even spin-off entries within the Final Fantasy series, you’re bound to have an incredible time and likely come out all the better for it. Final Fantasy games are as transformative as they are beautifully crafted, genuine masterpieces of the JRPG genre, and a testament to the strength of Japanese video game development.
Highguard Just Makes Me Want to Play This 19-Year-Old Shooter
Highguard, for all its flaws, has proven a fun distraction since it launched. There are a lot of great qualities to its frenetic gunplay, genuinely compelling roster of available heroes, and bizarre mix of fantasy and firearms that takes a little getting used to before you truly settle in. Oh, and riding a bear is always a lot of fun. While there’s certainly room for improvement, Highguard is delivering enough to fill the void that has plagued the hero shooter genre for some time.
This 2026 JRPG Needs to Be on Your Radar
2026 could end up being a truly exceptional year for JRPGs, with numerous titles already announced and several more speculated to be on the way. As much as it will be tough on our collective backlogs, after the triumphant success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, fans are absolutely due another 100-hour-long gem to satiate them until the next Final Fantasy releases (or, ideally, Xenoblade Chronicles).
Modern Gamers Won't Experience One of Gaming's Worst Trends, But They Face Something Worse
As gaming has evolved, many of the frustrating woes that plagued players have largely disappeared. From frustrating tank controls to restrictive gameplay mechanics, there are a lot of minor and major issues that those gaming today may never even experience. With so many of them in our proverbial rearview mirrors, one would be forgiven for thinking that there’s little wrong with the state of video games today.
10 Must-Play JRPGs To Try If You Love Open-World Games
JRPG Published 2 minutes ago Sign in to your ScreenRant account Custom Image by: Katarina Cimbaljevic Summary JRPGs and open worlds usually don't mix, but games like Final Fantasy 15 and Xenoblade Chronicles X are great examples of successful combinations. Atelier Ryza 3 and Dragon Quest 9 are JRPGs that have introduced vast open zones to enhance gameplay and exploration experiences for players.
Helldivers 2's Flamethrower Fumble Is The Least Of Its Worries
Summary Nerfed weapons in Helldivers 2 have upset the community, making some guns useless and unbalanced. Arrowhead Game Studios acknowledged the issue and promised to improve weapon balancing for player fun. Despite declining player counts, fixing balancing issues and prioritizing fun could bring back fans. Helldivers 2 has had a wealth of updates across its lifetime that have introduced new features, nerfed and buffed various weapons, and added in more Stratagems.
Black Myth: Wukong Release Date, Platforms, Price, Gameplay, & Story Details
Black Myth: Wukong Published 8 minutes ago Sign in to your ScreenRant account Summary Black Myth: Wukong is a highly anticipated soulslike game releasing on August 20, 2024, for PS5 and PC. The game offers challenging combat, expansive mythological landscapes, and diverse weapons and abilities. Players can choose from four different editions of the game, which is an adaption of the famed Chinese novel Journey to the West .
A Cyberpunk 2077 Faction Has A Major Problem That Can Be Fixed In The Sequel
Summary Cyberpunk 2077 introduces varied factions like Arasaka and Animals, but neglects the potential of Trauma Team, leaving players wanting more. Trauma Team's militarized paramedics cater only to the rich, making for missed opportunities in main missions and side content. The absence of Trauma Team in Cyberpunk 2077 highlights a deeper issue of the game's lack of exploration of themes like capitalism and dystopia. In Cyberpunk 2077, there are several factions vying for a slice of Night City.
This Open-World FPS From 2019 With Over 90,000 Players Is 90% Off on Xbox
Borderlands 3 Published 13 minutes ago Sign in to your ScreenRant account Summary Xbox users can grab Borderlands 3 for a steal at just $5.99, offering a huge open-world experience full of loot and humor. The sale also includes a discounted Borderlands Collection: Pandora's Box , featuring all six games and their DLC. With Borderlands 4 on the horizon and a movie in the works, now is the perfect time to dive into the Borderlands franchise.
I Trained an AI to Act Like Me: Here's What Happened
HackerNoon Mobile App (ahhhhh) - now trending #147 on Apple news 🔥 New! Pixelated Icons Open Sourced by HackerNoon Write on Future of AI to win $1000! 🔥🔥🔥 You can now get notified about hottest tech job openings in our Noonifications Newsletters.
I Spent a Week With a Personal AI Acting as my Second Brain — Here are my Impressions | HackerNoon
Context: Because I’m always happy to try new products and give hard feedback, I gave it a go. Disclaimer: I am not paid for this review, it strictly reflects my own opinion as a consumer and AI enthusiast. Who knew that creating your personal AI would be so easy? I have a technical background and I always enjoy hacking around. There are lots of AI tools out there for developers to configure and customize to their will. In comparison, the focus of Spheria.ai is clear: it’s ready for consumers.
Senate Republicans slam Trump for valorizing J6 insurrectionists at Waco rally
Former President Donald Trump took time at his rally over the weekend in Waco, Texas to glorify the cause of the January 6 insurrectionists who attacked the U.S. Capitol, playing a video in defense of them. But many Senate Republicans are calling it out as a bridge too far, reported NBC News.
Rockstar Games Responds to Early GTA 6 Gameplay Leak
Rockstar Games has confirmed that the GTA 6 gameplay leaked over the weekend was in fact real via a statement. On September 18, 90 videos containing footage of Rockstar’s upcoming project, currently known as GTA 6, were leaked by a user by the name of “teapotuberhacker”. The gameplay showcased footage of a female character engaging in a police shootout, diner robbery, and even more. It garnered a lot of attention for being a truly first-of-its-kind leak due to its sheer size.
Why Do Fans Hate the Fortnite Season 4 Battle Pass?
With the launch of Fortnite Chapter 3 Season 4 underway, fans have begun criticizing its Battle Pass – here’s everything we know. Every Season, Fortnite introduces a brand-new Battle Pass for players to progress through. Featuring new cosmetics, skins, emotes, and more to unlock, these Battle Passes are often the highlight of the Season. Unfortunately, Fortnite Chapter 3 Season 4 has apparently failed to inspire players old and new with its Battle Pass.
Swimming in MW2 & Warzone 2.0 Guide: How To Swim & Aquatic Combat & Tips
Swimming is a brand-new mechanic to MW2 and Warzone 2.0 – here is everything you need to know about it. One of the biggest additions to Modern Warfare 2 and Warzone 2.0 is the ability to swim. Not only does it make movement in those games more dynamic, but it allows for a whole new type of map design. Fortunately, while swimming is a core component of MW2 and Warzone 2, it is really easy to do. Let’s just say you won’t need to be an Olympic swimmer to make the most out of this new mechanic.
Every Classic CoD Map Returning In Warzone 2.0
The enormous Warzone 2.0 map, Al Mazrah, features a number of unique POIs, some of which are returning classic CoD maps. Fans of Call of Duty, both old and new, will soon be able to play the brand-new Warzone 2 map. However, we suspect that players who remember the days of the original Modern Warfare 2 will enjoy it a little more thanks to a handful of returning maps. Many of the POIs in Warzone 2.0’s map Al Mazrah, are based on or recreations of classic CoD4, MW2, and MW3 maps.
First Reactions to Warzone 2.0 & MW2 Gameplay Are Mixed
During the September 2022 CoD Next event, fans finally got to see gameplay for both MW2 and Warzone 2.0 and their reactions were definitely mixed. If you’ve been following the teasers, trailers, and even leaks surrounding MW2 and Warzone 2.0, then you’ll have seen – or at least heard about – the CoD Next event. It showcased hours of footage surrounding both Modern Warfare 2’s multiplayer modes and Warzone 2.
All MW2 Multiplayer Maps Revealed - Core & Battle Modes
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 features a huge range of Core and Battle maps in its multiplayer mode – here is every map you can expect to see. MW2 will feature two different types of maps in its varied multiplayer modes. You can expect to see Core maps – which are smaller and more refined – and Battle maps – which allow for greater exploration and bigger fights.
The Legend Of Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom: Release Date, Story & New Gameplay Details
After multiple trailers, a brand-new name, and an official release date, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is coming together. Here is everything we know about it. After the immense success of Breath of the Wild, fans wanted to know what its prospective sequel would look like. Fortunately, at E3 2019, we were given a first look at the game formally known as BOTW2. Now, after multiple teasers and trailers, we’re able to piece together some of the information to create a coherent whole.
7 Best Weapons In Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition
Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is full of fantastically designed weapons. From the comically large drivers that Reyn inexplicably wields to the iconic Monado, these weapons come in all shapes and sizes. Of course, for those looking for the crème de la crème of weapons, there is one per character you will want to hunt down, no matter how hard it is to find them.
How To Set Up & Use Discord On Your Xbox
After a long trial period, Discord is now available for everyone to use on Xbox. The process to access it can be a little complex, so we’re here to help. Discord is an incredibly popular voice and instant messaging app and is very useful for people playing video games together. Fortunately, for those who prefer it over Xbox’s standard voice-chatting options, it is finally available on the platform. It is also entirely free for the Xbox One, Xbox Series S, and Xbox Series X.
Hogwarts Legacy PlayStation Exclusive Quest Details Revealed
More information was shared about Hogwarts Legacy’s PlayStation exclusive quest during the September 2022 State of Play event – here is everything we know. While there have been a number of teasers and trailers for the much anticipated Hogwarts Legacy, a lot of the information has been a little vague. Many fans were expecting to hear more about the game at the September 2022 State of Play, and, fortunately, they weren’t disappointed.
Modern Warfare 2 Beta PC System Requirements Guide: Minimum & Recommended
The PC System Requirements for the Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 Beta have finally been revealed – here is everything we know. With the MW2 Beta right around the corner, PC players are likely wondering just how powerful of a PC they’ll need to play it. Fortunately, ahead of the PC Beta – which is starting on September 22 – the system requirements for the game have been revealed.
Isonzo: Almost The Greatest WW1 Shooter Ever - PS5 Review
I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy both Tannenberg and Verdun, the previous two FPS titles in the WW1 series by developer BlackMill Games. Frankly, they’re both masterpieces, seamlessly blending realistic mechanics, visuals and audio design while remaining perfectly approachable. They’re challenging titles, especially if you play online, but for the most part, they manage to maintain a satisfyingly fulfilling and rewarding baseline of enjoyment.
Which House Should You Pick in Hogwarts Legacy - All Differences Revealed
With the release of Hogwarts Legacy just around the corner, it is worth taking a look at each Hogwarts house and seeing which is the best for you. Whether it is Slytherin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, each Hogwarts house is bound to offer players a unique experience. However, there are definitely some key differences that’ll help you make up your mind about which house you belong in.
Tinykin: The Best Game Of 2022 - PS5 Review
Writing this Tinykin review is a little bittersweet for me. On the one hand, I get to review an exceptional and endlessly creative video game. On the other, it is my final review for The Game Crater. One of the many highlights of my career with The Game Crater was previewing Tinykin in February of this year.
We Rank The 6 Best Core Chips In Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Xenoblade Chronicles 2’s many excellently designed blades have unique weapons tied to them. You can’t really hand them a new sword or gun, as it’s practically a part of their personality. So, how do you give players more weapons to unlock? Well, you call them Core Chips, and you hide the best ones behind some seriously tough bosses. Scattered across Xenoblade Chronicles 2’s many beautiful locations are these Core Chips.
6 Things We Wish We Knew Before Playing Xenoblade Chronicles 2
Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is an enormous JRPG. We’re talking 100 hours long enormous. So, it’s understandable that for anyone new to the series or to JRPGs in general, beating this game may seem like a daunting task. Fortunately, we’re here to impart some of our Xenoblade Chronicles 2 wisdom upon you. Seriously, it’s been rattling in our brain since 2017 being not particularly helpful.
5 Games To Play If You Loved Playing Soul Hackers 2
Soul Hackers 2 took all of the best features of the Persona series and adapted them for a brand-new spin-off. It’s funky, fun, and frantic all at the same time. From its excellent character designs to its engaging turn-based combat, there’s a lot to love in Soul Hackers 2. However, for those who’ve completed it and are craving more turn-based JRPG goodness, you’re likely wondering what to pick up next. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered.
Xenoblade Chronicles 3: 5 Things Only Players Of The Previous Games In The Series Noticed
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 does its best to cater to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series, by shaking up previously established mechanics, characters and locations. Things manage to feel simultaneously fresh and familiar in this epic JRPG, which is great for everyone. Despite this, newcomers are likely to have missed certain things that returning fans will have picked up on.
Madville+: A Masterfully Visceral Arena Shooter - PC Review
Back when I was in secondary school – high school for you Americans – I played a lot of browser games with my friends. My all-time favourite was Boxhead, a simple action game about defending your base against hordes of demons. It was gory, action-packed and filled to the brim with customisation. Its simplicity also happened to be its greatest strength, as it enabled even immature kids like myself to immediately understand its gameplay loop.
5 Things That Make No Sense In Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a pretty fantastic game, no one is denying that. It combines everything that made the previous two games in the series great, with a whole load of brilliant innovations. Unfortunately — or fortunately, depending on how you look at it — that means it brings with it all the weird and wonderful things from the previous games.
6 Things Everyone Completely Missed In Xenoblade Chronicles 3
Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is a pretty outstanding JRPG, and one that fans of both the series and genre will enjoy. However, despite being one of the most accessible titles in the series and easy to understand for newcomers, that doesn’t mean you won’t miss out on some of its best content. From giant gorillas to hidden areas, there are so many secrets and easy-to-miss details scattered across the enormous world of Aionios.
Video Game Fables: A Truly Spectacular Indie RPG - PC Review
I’ve been playing a lot of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 recently. While I’m enjoying it, I can’t help but feel as if it’s lacking somewhat. It neither feels particularly original, nor exceptional within its own series. That’s not to discount its positives, but rather to express that despite altering certain aspects of its gameplay it fails to extend itself beyond its genre’s tropes. The same cannot be said for the wonderfully original indie RPG, Video Game Fables.
Please, Touch The Artwork: Pure Puzzle Genuis - Switch Review
When I was fourteen I was taken on a school trip to an art gallery. The function of the trip was to teach us to appreciate art and come to terms with how it made us feel. Of course, being fourteen, I pretended I cared little for what was on display. However, deep down, I felt touched by what I saw and wished dearly that I could express that.
RITE: A Meticulously Crafted Platformer - Switch Review
As a video game journalist, it’s often beneficial to pretend you’re awesome at video games. Of course, there’s nothing about being a video game journalist that qualifies you to be a great “gamer”. Nor is there really anything about being a great “gamer” that qualifies you to be a great games journalist. However, in this instance, I’m more than happy to admit that I suck at platformers. Like, I’m really really awful.
Camp Canyonwood: Not Quite Out Of The Woods Yet - PC Preview
As a child, the concept of a summer camp was very foreign to me. Hanging out with strangers, roasting marshmallows, telling spooky stories by a campfire and earning badges for picking flowers is not something I spent my summers doing. Instead, I watched Buffy The Vampire Slayer until 6am while eating straight out of a jar of peanut butter. I’m 24 now, bedridden with injured hands and crippled with the insecurities and anxieties of adulthood.
7 Best Side Characters In Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition
From Jin in Xenoblade Chronicles 2 to Phog Christoph in Xenoblade Chronicles X – not exactly comparable, but you get the idea – the Xenoblade Chronicles games have always had terrific side characters. Fortunately, the same can be said for the first game in the series. Throughout your adventure, you’ll meet an eclectic group of villains and heroes all of whom are likely to leave a lasting impression.
6 Things We Wish We Knew Before Starting Road 96
Road 96 took the indie gaming scene by storm when it initially launched. It offers players an unprecedented amount of narrative choices that have a genuinely meaningful impact on their overall journey. Suffice to say, it’s a pretty incredible experience.
5 Games To Play If You Like DJMax Respect V
With the arrival of DJMax Respect V on Xbox platforms, both newcomers and veterans of the rhythm game genre are likely revelling in its revival. With a huge list of music to master and a stylish anime aesthetic, DJMax Respect V has likely garnered much respect from fans. However, there are just so many upbeat, high-octane songs to destroy your thumbs too, that they can’t all possibly be contained within one game.
Please, Touch The Artwork Coming To Switch This September
The critically acclaimed indie puzzle game, Please, Touch The Artwork by developer Thomas Waterzooi is coming to the Nintendo Switch this September. Please, Touch The Artwork launched on January 26th for Steam and was met with critical acclaim. Developed by Thomas Waterzooi, this charming puzzle game saw you influence and shape art across a series of fantastic randomly generated puzzles.
Changes And Differences Only Veteran Players Remember In No Man's Sky
Share Tweet Share Email From the bizarre random generation to the notorious lack of multiplayer, here are some things veterans remember about Hello Games' No Man's Sky. No Man's Sky's transformation since its much-maligned launch back in 2016 has been heralded as nothing short of miraculous. A significant amount of changes have been made to No Man's Sky's numerous gameplay systems thanks to frequent updates.
Bubbly B&B Game, Bear & Breakfast, Bounding Onto Steam Today.
Developer Gummy Cat and publisher Armor Games Studios are finally releasing their long-anticipated B&B game, Bear & Breakfast, today. A little while ago we previewed the endlessly charming management adventure game, Bear & Breakfast. We had an absolute blast and have been hotly anticipating its full launch ever since. Fortunately for us and for its many other adoring fans, the game is out today.
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