2023 Videogames – Play Critically

Vernal Edge Review

The more I play Vernal Edge, the more I come to enjoy it, but it takes far too much effort to tease out those kernels.

Wall World doesn’t quite live up to its grand premise, but is mechanically strong.

I am uncertain if Frogsong is successful in its queer storytelling, but I appreciate its effort.

The Bookwalker: Thief of Tales’ intriguing setting and striking visuals keep me engaged when its mechanics do not.

Sometimes there’s satisfaction to be found from a repetitive task performed thoroughly and well. I feel none of that satisfaction here.

Of the 2023 indie releases I reviewed on Play Critically, I feel these are the five best.

I hoped Ebenezer and the Invisible World would be a new classic holiday videogame. Instead it is a footnote.

In terms of design and personal satisfaction, Build is one of SteamWorld’s most successful installments.

If I didn’t know better I would believe Prison City is a classic 8-bit action-platformer, resurrected and polished for current audiences.

9 Years of Shadow feels like an unfinished puzzle whose pieces don’t fit together.