Our team explores a diverse range of digital worlds this week, from the challenging strategy of a remastered classic to the chaotic fun of a physics-based sandbox. Experiences span multiple platforms and genres, including a nostalgic return to a handheld Sims spin-off, a deep dive into a celebrated JRPG, and an early look at a new sports title.
Key Takeaways
- Writers are engaging with a mix of new releases, remastered classics, and indie titles across PC, console, and handheld platforms.
- Experiences range from the steep learning curve of Final Fantasy Tactics to the accessible, chaotic fun of Wobbly Life.
- Several players are tackling lengthy, story-rich games like Persona 5 Royal and the classic Nintendo DS title The Urbz: Sims in the City.
- Early impressions of major releases like EA Sports FC 26 reveal mixed opinions on gameplay modes and difficulty balancing.
Classic Titles See Renewed Interest
This week, several writers returned to older, influential games, finding both challenge and charm. The experiences highlight the lasting appeal of unique gameplay mechanics and strong narrative design from previous console generations.
Final Fantasy Tactics on Switch 2
One of the most notable deep dives is into Final Fantasy Tactics. Despite its reputation, the initial hours have proven difficult. The game's complex Job system presents a steep learning curve, requiring significant time in menus to understand its intricacies.
Even with adjustments made for the re-release to lower the overall difficulty, early battles have resulted in repeated losses. However, the game's compelling political storyline and distinct artistic style are proving to be strong motivators to continue.
"I already adore the tone of the game... its political storyline absolutely has its hooks in me. At the least, I'm happy to be finally ticking this classic off my list."
The determination to master the game's mechanics underscores the rewarding nature of overcoming its notorious difficulty.
The Urbz: Sims in the City on DS
A journey back to the Nintendo DS library has led to a revisit of The Urbz: Sims in the City. This spin-off is remembered for its unique story-based approach, a departure from the open-ended sandbox format of the mainline Sims games.
The gameplay involves a challenging balance of managing a Sim's needs while also building social relationships to advance the plot. The central story, which follows the downfall of the antagonist Daddy Bigbucks, is described as unapologetically goofy and memorable. This experience has sparked a desire for more story-driven console iterations of the Sims franchise.
Exploring New and Quirky Indie Games
Alongside established classics, our team has been exploring several independent titles that offer unique and often unconventional gameplay. These games prioritize creativity and novel mechanics over high-fidelity graphics.
The Rise of Physics-Based Sandbox Games
Games like Wobbly Life and Baby Steps belong to a growing genre that uses exaggerated physics for comedic and challenging effect. These titles often provide players with simple tools in a large environment, encouraging emergent gameplay and player-driven fun rather than scripted events.
Wobbly Life on Xbox Series X
Wobbly Life has proven to be an unexpectedly engaging experience. The game is set in a vibrant, open world where players take on various jobs or simply cause chaos. Its appeal lies in its unserious and lighthearted nature, requiring no significant time commitment.
Players can spend a few minutes or several hours completing tasks, earning money, and unlocking new items and vehicles. One memorable moment involved using a stolen space hopper to jump a raised bridge into the city, an act that captures the game's silly and spontaneous spirit. It has become a go-to for evening entertainment due to its low-stress, high-fun gameplay loop.
Baby Steps on PS5 Pro
In contrast to the lighthearted fun of Wobbly Life, Baby Steps offers a punishing challenge. Described as a physics-based walking simulator, the game requires players to manually control the protagonist's legs, making even simple traversal a difficult task.
An early attempt to venture off the intended path led to being stuck at the bottom of a large mudslide, unable to climb more than halfway up. The game's design philosophy seems to be centered around overcoming intentionally awkward controls and environmental obstacles, creating a sense of struggle and eventual triumph.
Megabonk on PC
Another indie title generating discussion is Megabonk, a game that blends the auto-shooter mechanics of Vampire Survivors with 3D platforming. Initial impressions were mixed, with its scruffy, almost rudimentary visuals creating uncertainty about its quality.
However, as more time is spent with the game, its unique qualities begin to emerge. The addition of WASD-based movement, including running, jumping, and sliding, adds a layer of skill and engagement not found in its 2D inspirations. The loop of unlocking new content after each run feels generous, distinguishing it from more restrictive progression systems. The consensus is leaning positive as its unique identity becomes clearer.
Diving into Major Modern Releases
Recent major releases are also getting attention, from highly anticipated sports simulations to critically acclaimed role-playing games that have recently become available to a wider audience.
Persona 5 Royal on PC
A recent Steam sale prompted a first-time playthrough of Persona 5 Royal. The game, known for its stylish presentation and massive length, has quickly made a positive impression. While often described as having a slow start, the initial hours have been engaging.
Persona 5 Royal holds a score of 95 on Metacritic for its PlayStation 4 version, making it one of the highest-rated RPGs of all time. Its PC port in 2022 brought the game to a new audience.
The characters are a key highlight. The initial perception of the character Ryuji shifted from negative to positive as his backstory was revealed. The game's blend of daily high school life simulation and supernatural dungeon crawling is already proving to be a compelling formula.
EA Sports FC 26 on PS5
Early impressions of EA Sports FC 26 are mixed, with significant differences noted between its online and offline modes. The popular Ultimate Team mode is described as feeling "comically arcadey," with player stamina seemingly removed, encouraging a constant, fast-paced style of play.
In stark contrast, offline modes feel sluggish. A major point of contention is the difficulty gap between AI settings. On the "Professional" difficulty, matches are consistently won by large margins like 9-0. However, moving up just one tier to "World Class" results in frustrating 0-0 draws with minimal possession. On a positive note, the game is praised for its extensive customization options, which allow players to tailor the experience to their liking.