Hey guys, it does not always come through on here but I love me some video games. Over on the Youtube channel I started a new series called Games I’ve Played Recently. It is a simple series. As you can imagine, I just talk about the games that have been keeping me busy. I also include gameplay footage or trailers or previews of each game so you guys have an idea of what the game is like. I figured I would migrate that idea over to here and maybe we can have some good discussions in the comment section.

If you want to see the video that accompanies this post, check it out here: Games I’ve Played Recently Post #1

Let’s get it started!

Shovel Knight (Wii U)

Shovel Knight was developed by Yacht Club Games. It is a 2D sidescroller reminiscent of yesteryear. The titular Shovel Knight uses his shovel to kill enemies, create pathways, and dig up secrets. There’s plenty of new items as well as ways of upgrading his armor, health, magic, and shovel. Each is mostly fair and balanced, though the later levels have numerous insta-deaths. This makes the final few stages really get the adrenaline pumping. Most of the secrets littering the stages are massive amounts of treasure used to upgrade Shovel Knight. Occasionally, you will stumble upon a music note for the local bard or the next advancing/combat item known as relics like the Propeller Dagger. I have not really played too many 2D Platformers (I can count on 1 hand how many I have enjoyed), but to me Shovel Knight was a total game changer for me.

Paper Mario: The Origami King (Switch)

The Paper Mario series is easily one of my favorite Nintendo franchises to date. Origami King is shaping up to be another worthwhile installment. The coloring is fantastic, the exploration is enjoyable, the dialogue is still topnotch, and the combat mostly just has to grow on you. There’s plenty of secrets in each level and tons of toads scouring the landscapes. You’ll stay busy discovering all this game has to offer.

Spongebob Squarepants: Battle For Bikini Bottom (Switch)

This game has been a joy to play. SS:BFBB is an HD overhaul of the Gamecube/PS2/Xbox classic. As such, the game map is a little small, but that’s about where my complaints end. The game is pseudo open world in that, there is a linear path in mind for you to travel, but you will have the freedom to make some detours off the beaten path. There’s a multitude of shiny objects (coins), Golden Spatulas, and dirty socks to occupy your time. The graphics are so bright and pleasant while the combat and platforming get the job done in what  might be the surprise hit of 2020.

Super Mario Galaxy 2 (Wii)

I honestly do not have enough time nor paper to explain what an absolute and complete gem the Super Mario Galaxy duo is. The worlds are masterfully crafted, the secrets are a blast to locate, the stars are so perfectly places in each level. This game is pretty darn close to gaming perfection. I have not beat it simply because I am trying to play more of new Nintendo Switch games, but this is a game I am eagerly waiting to jump back into to.

Dark Cloud 1 &2 (Playstation 2)

Dark Cloud 1 and 2 were both created by Level 5. I have to admit this is one of the most unique games in my collection. They are a mix of city building simulator with a rogue like dungeon crawling aspect mixed in. Every city in each game has been devastated by the evil genie. Your job as the main character is to conquer each dungeon and find the missing parts of town and slowly rebuild them. It is quirky, it is unique, and it is an experience to behold. If you are a fan of any of those genre, this game is a must to check out.

Resident Evil #2

Resident Evil 2 is a remastering, almost a reimagining of the classic survival horror  game that shook us to our cores back on the PS1/N64. I love the Resident Evil series but I have described this game as eerie and that it feels you with dread. I love the setting of Raccoon City, the police department, and all the other locations of the franchise. I also adore all the main characters this series has had over the years including Leon and Claire here. With all that said, I can’t say this game is fun to play. I just don’t like the genre as a whole. So, I play for a solid 30 minutes to an hour and then I have had enough. I can still recognize this game as a masterpiece nonetheless.

So there you have. These, for the most part, are the games I’ve played recently.  Hopefully this write up gives you an idea about the games and if you would have any interest in them. Let me know what you’ve been playing.