This post is my year round up, my top 5 releases, near misses and my most awaited releases. I'll also give you an insider look at what projects I have lined up for the blog.
First and foremost I must point out that I recently was given title of Nintendo editor, this is something I have taken very seriously. But I must say that I'm not a "fanboy" it's just my console and handheld choices have driven me more towards Nintendo. I hope in the new year to be able to post about some wonderfully brilliant RPG titles released on the Wii that were all part of Operation Rainfall.
Along side that I still have my Maken X/Maken Shao review and comparison in the pipe line. This got pushed back due to prior commitments and for the good of the blog. They are still coming and I hope you all look forward to reading them when they eventually drop.
Alongside those I'll be reviewing 3DS/WIIU and the occasional ps3 title and I'm hoping to start an Uncharted Waters diary for my first playthrough.
My final announcement is that I'm working hard alongside my good friend Kojiro who will have some exclusive content from Japan for you all really soon!.
Geoff is currently working on a staff page where you will find more info about me and the other members of the blog. So without any more delay my year round up!
Top 5 releases in no particular order
BRAVERLY DEFAULT 3DS
Anyone familiar with my reviews shouldn't see this as a surprise. My review provided it with a 9.5 and I praise it to just about anyone that will listen!. Catch the review on this very blog
SHIN MEGAMI TENSEI: DEVIL SURVIVOR OVERCLOCKED
3DS enhanced port of an already brilliant DS game. Based on the Shin Megami Tensei series you are given a SRPG set in a locked down area of Japan. With several routes through the story and a massive collection of demons to bid for and fuse, it should keep anyone entertained for a long time. With similar story elements to The World Ends With You this package despite being late to Europe is an essential purchase for any SMT/RPG fan
WONDERFUL 101 WiiU
A strange title by one of my favourite studios Platinum games. Upon first look you are given the impression Viewtiful Joe meets Pikmin. What you are actually given is a greatest hits of sorts.
With the look of Viewtiful Joe, the combat of Devil May Cry/Bayonetta and the drawing ability of Okami and a sprinkling of Platinum's comedy and writing. It's a hardcore title that didn't sell half as much as it should and well worth any WiiU owner's time and money!
ASSASSINS CREED IV: BLACK FLAG (versions played ps3 & WiiU)
A series I had long tired with came back into my life with a blast. Fantastic setting, outstanding gameplay and polished overall feel. Gave me the pirate fix I have needed for so long!, not the strongest in terms of AC mythology but certainly the best in terms of gameplay and things to do!. Looks amazing on any format though for me the WiiU had the best of current gen. Onwards my Nakama!
NI NO KUNI PS3
A bit of a mixed feeling with this title but I can't deny it. With a studio Gibli aesthetic this game took over this year and converted a lot of people to JRPG. I was in two minds with this title but looking back I remember most of it fondly. Well written and plays like a traditional JRPG, also has an amazing dub which suits the overall package. Battle system is a little ho-hum and the familiar capture system is a pain and needs addressing in the follow up. Overall it's a fantastic RPG and a good place for newbies and vets alike.
Honourable mentions!
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds.
I left this out because I didn't want 3DS dominating my list. Grade A Zelda title with fantastic use of 3D. Essential 3DS purchase
Tomb Raider
. The Tomb Raider reboot has to be the finest action game iv enjoyed in years. A rollercoaster ride that once kicks off refuses to stop until the credits roll.
And finally Sonic Lost World
I won't say too much on this as I'm planning an article for it but I will say the mainstream reviews were too harsh and possibly misunderstood this title!
NEARMISSES
REMEMBER ME PS3
What was promised by Capcom as an adventure to rival the likes of AC & Deus Ex turned out to be an average in everyway Sci Fi adventure. I rode the hype train hard on this and derailed even harder.
DRAGON'S CROWN PS3
I wanted nothing more to love this title, I really did. Unfortunately dodgy collision, lack of online co op until the end and lack of levels stopped me from enjoying. I believe a new patch has dropped which creates random dungeons so I'm interested in trying it again in the new year
ONE PIECE: ROMANCE DAWN 3DS
This game was one I had been waiting on for a while. A One Piece RPG could of been so good, unfortunately it was below average and I was let down. My review is available at this site and was awarded 6/10 for One Piece fans or 5/10 for any others
Most Awaited Titles
PERSONA Q
I personally cannot get enough of this spin off fusion with Etrian Odyssey. Hoping to hear a European release date on this in the new year
SHIN MEGAMI TENSEI 4
Announced at a Nintendo Direct this year with no data, it's gone far too quiet on this title. I'm hoping for a Q1 2014 release on this core SMT title
BAYONETTA 2
Platinum's next offering for the WiiU and follow up to one of my all time favourite action games. A release in 2014 would be fantastic
Fire Emblem x SMT
I want more info on this crossover, i am highly interested to see how it's going to turn out enjoying both titles myself.
YAKUZA 5
I doubt it but I am still hoping to get a Yakuza 5 announcement for Europe. As one of my all time favourite series I feel like I'm missing out too much. Also a Yakuza 1 & 2 HD announcement for either PS3 or WiiU would be nice Sega!
That's been my yearly write up! I hope you enjoyed it and I cannot wait to report on more titles in our biggest year yet 2014
Thank you to our loyal readers and new readers who are helping this ride go along!
Andi - Nintendo Editor
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