9th Dawn Remake review (PS5)

More than a decade after the original 9th Dawn debuted on mobile, Valorware returns with 9th Dawn Remake, a top-down RPG that brings the classic experience into a more modern context an onto new platforms. It’s been a long road since the series’ humble beginnings, and with the remake promising new visuals, updated gameplay systems, and a world of dungeons to conquer, there was good reason to be intrigued – especially considering the original’s cult status. The PlayStation 5 version features local and online co-op, minigames, and a retooled narrative. But does it live up to the status of the mobile game? Continue reading “9th Dawn Remake review (PS5)”

Heretic + Hexen review (PS5)

Three decades after their original release, Heretic and Hexen return in a package that’s part nostalgia trip, part preservation effort, and part fresh content drop. Raven Software’s original dark-fantasy shooters helped shape the genre with their blend of DOOM-like intensity and magical, gothic atmosphere, and Nightdive Studios’ enhanced restoration makes them surprisingly accessible on modern hardware. While their age inevitably shows, the PS5 version makes a strong case for why these games deserve another round in the spotlight. Continue reading “Heretic + Hexen review (PS5)”

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 review (PS5)

After the successful remake of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2, expectations were understandably high for Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 on PlayStation 5. Developed by Iron Galaxy Studios and published by Activision, this new compilation continues the franchise’s revival by offering an experience that balances reverence for the originals with modern flourishes. While the final result doesn’t surprise quite as much as its predecessor did, it still delivers a highly entertaining return to form for one of gaming’s most iconic series. Continue reading “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 review (PS5)”

PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY review (PS5)

Although it’s been more than 15 years since Patapon and Patapon 2 first charmed PlayStation Portable owners, PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY now brings both rhythm-infused classics together in a remastered package for PlayStation 5 – though we’re not sure we like the shift to all caps for the title. Developed by SAS and published by Bandai Namco, this rerelease stays true to the originals while layering in some much-needed quality-of-life updates, appealing to both nostalgic fans and newcomers alike. At its heart, Patapon remains a quirky blend of rhythm game and strategic battler where players, cast as the deity of the Patapon tribe, lead their one-eyed followers through stylishly abstract lands by beating out commands on four mystical drums. Continue reading “PATAPON 1+2 REPLAY review (PS5)”

Dungeons & Dragons Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition

Originally released in 2006, Neverwinter Nights 2 stood as one of the most ambitious Dungeons & Dragons adaptations of its time. With the PlayStation 5 version of the Enhanced Edition, Aspyr offers console players a taste of this classic RPG by Obsidian, complete with all of its expansions and a host of tweaks. But while this version delivers a generous package steeped in rich lore and role-playing depth, it also feels like a relic from another era in some ways – both for better and worse. Continue reading “Dungeons & Dragons Neverwinter Nights 2: Enhanced Edition”