Recent reviews by BigToeJoe

Gameplay:
Ghostrunner 2 takes everything we loved about the first game and dials it up to eleven. The way you move, the way you fight – it's all a symphony of precision and speed that'll have your heart racing. They've thrown in some fresh abilities and challenges that keep you guessing, making every encounter a white-knuckle thrill ride.

Graphics:
I can't even begin to describe how jaw-droppingly gorgeous this game is. The cityscapes, all lit up in neon, the futuristic backdrops – it's like stepping into a cyberpunk dream. And the characters, they're so lifelike, it's almost eerie. The art direction here is nothing short of a masterpiece, setting a whole new bar for eye candy in the gaming world.

Replayability:
Ghostrunner 2 is like that gift that keeps on giving. With different paths, hidden spots, and a boatload of challenges, every playthrough feels like a fresh adventure. It's all about pushing your limits, mastering those moves, and finding new ways to tackle each level. Whether you're chasing speed records or perfecting your combat, this game keeps you coming back for more.

Story and Worldbuilding:
While Ghostrunner 2 shines brightest in gameplay, the story isn't just an afterthought. The cyberpunk world they've built is a character in itself. The plot unfolds with twists and turns that keep you hooked, and the characters... they're mysterious and layered, adding a whole new dimension to the experience.

Soundtrack:
The music, oh boy, it's like they plucked it from the future. The beats and synths, they sync up with the action in a way that'll give you chills. It's like they hand-picked each track to amplify the intensity. The sound design is on point, and it's a crucial part of what makes this game so darn immersive.

In Conclusion:
Ghostrunner 2 isn't just a sequel; it's a leap forward. The gameplay is tighter, the graphics are jaw-dropping, and the replay value is off the charts. Hats off to the devs for crafting something truly special. If you're into high-octane action and diving headfirst into cyberpunk worlds, this game is an absolute must-play. It's a wild ride from start to finish, setting a whole new standard for the genre.

Gameplay:
"Baldur's Gate 3" masterfully blends classic RPG elements with modern mechanics. The turn-based combat is tactical and engaging, allowing for a wide range of strategic options. The deep character customization and branching narrative choices ensure a highly personalized experience. The addition of party dynamics and companion interactions adds depth to the gameplay, making every decision feel impactful.

Graphics:
The visuals in "Baldur's Gate 3" are nothing short of breathtaking. The meticulously designed environments, from the bustling city of Baldur's Gate to the eerie swamps of the Underdark, are rendered with stunning detail. Character models are expressive, and the dynamic lighting adds depth and atmosphere to the world. The attention to detail in both the macro and micro aspects of the game's visuals is commendable.

Difficulty:
The game strikes a balanced difficulty, catering to both veterans of the genre and newcomers. Combat encounters can be challenging, requiring strategic thinking and tactical positioning. The inclusion of various difficulty settings ensures that players can tailor the experience to their preference, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Replayability:
"Baldur's Gate 3" offers a wealth of replayability through its expansive narrative and player-driven choices. The branching storylines and multitude of side quests provide ample opportunities for different playthroughs. Additionally, the game is in early access, promising even more content and updates in the future, further enhancing its replayability.

Verdict:
"Baldur's Gate 3" is a triumphant return to the iconic RPG franchise. Its blend of deep storytelling, strategic combat, and stunning visuals creates an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Dungeons & Dragons universe. While still in early access, it showcases immense potential and is a must-play for fans of classic RPGs.

Rating: 9.3/10

Gameplay:
"PowerWash Simulator" takes an ordinary household task and turns it into an unexpectedly satisfying gaming experience. The controls are intuitive, allowing players to manipulate the pressure washer with precision. The variety of surfaces and grime levels keeps the gameplay engaging, and the gradual reveal of a sparkling clean surface is strangely gratifying.

Graphics:
While not aiming for photorealism, the graphics in "PowerWash Simulator" are crisp and clean, fittingly reflecting the game's theme. Surfaces, whether it's a grimy car or a moss-covered deck, are realistically rendered. The attention to detail in depicting dirt and grime adds a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Difficulty:
The difficulty in "PowerWash Simulator" lies more in patience and attention to detail rather than in complex mechanics. Achieving a perfectly clean surface requires a steady hand and a keen eye for spots that might be missed. It strikes a balance, making it accessible to players of all skill levels while still offering a satisfying challenge.

Replayability:
While the premise may seem straightforward, the game's level design and range of surfaces offer a surprising amount of variety. Each job presents a unique set of challenges, from different types of dirt to hard-to-reach spots. Additionally, the game's workshop and community creations add an extra layer of content for players looking to extend their power washing endeavors.

Verdict:
"PowerWash Simulator" takes a mundane chore and turns it into an unexpectedly enjoyable gaming experience. The gameplay is intuitive and oddly satisfying, providing a therapeutic escape into the world of cleanliness. While not a game for everyone, it excels in what it sets out to do.

Rating: 8.2/10

Gameplay:
"Hollow Knight" is a finely crafted masterpiece of metroidvania gaming. The precision and fluidity of movement, coupled with a diverse range of nail-based combat options, make for an engaging and satisfying experience. The intricately designed world invites exploration, with hidden passages and challenging platforming elements that keep players on their toes. The boss battles, each with their unique patterns, provide a thrilling test of skill.

Graphics:
The hand-drawn art style of "Hollow Knight" is nothing short of enchanting. The subterranean world of Hallownest is brought to life with meticulous detail and a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. The use of color and light creates a sense of depth and mood that immerses players in its dark, yet captivating, environment.

Difficulty:
While "Hollow Knight" is accessible to players of all levels, it doesn't shy away from providing a challenge. The world of Hallownest is rife with formidable foes and intricate platforming sections. Each area introduces new obstacles and enemies, ensuring a steady progression of difficulty. Conquering the game's more demanding encounters is a testament to the player's growing mastery.

Replayability:
The rich lore and non-linear exploration of "Hollow Knight" lend themselves well to multiple playthroughs. Different endings, optional challenges, and hidden secrets encourage players to delve deeper into Hallownest. Additionally, the game's free content updates provide even more content for returning adventurers.

Verdict:
"Hollow Knight" is a crowning achievement in the metroidvania genre. Its gameplay is a finely tuned dance of exploration and combat, with a world that begs to be uncovered. The hand-drawn visuals create an atmosphere that is both haunting and alluring. While it offers a challenge, it does so in a way that is ultimately rewarding. With its depth of content and captivating world, "Hollow Knight" stands as a shining example of indie gaming excellence.

Rating: 9.8/10

Gameplay:
"Elden Ring" delivers a masterclass in action RPG gameplay. From the weighty strikes of a broadsword to the nimble dodges of a rogue, combat feels both strategic and visceral. The open-world exploration is a revelation, seamlessly blending intricate level design with a sprawling landscape. The addition of mounted combat adds a new dimension to battles, offering a dynamic and exhilarating experience.

Graphics:
Visually, "Elden Ring" is a tour de force. The game's dark fantasy world is rendered with breathtaking detail, from the towering castles to the foreboding forests. Each environment feels alive, with a sense of history and mystique that permeates every inch. The lighting and atmospheric effects add an extra layer of immersion, creating a world that is both hauntingly beautiful and unnervingly atmospheric.

Difficulty:
This is a FromSoftware title, and true to form, "Elden Ring" does not hold back. The difficulty is unapologetically high, demanding precise timing, astute observation, and strategic thinking. Every enemy encounter feels like a high-stakes duel, and bosses are towering tests of skill and perseverance. For fans of challenging gameplay, "Elden Ring" is a triumph.

Replayability:
The sheer scope of "Elden Ring's" world and the depth of its lore make for a highly replayable experience. Multiple classes and playstyles encourage different approaches to combat, while the non-linear nature of the game allows for varied exploration paths. Additionally, the multiplayer elements, including invasions and co-op, offer a dynamic and ever-changing experience.

Verdict:
"Elden Ring" is a magnum opus in the action RPG genre. Its gameplay, steeped in challenge and strategy, is a testament to FromSoftware's mastery. The visuals create a world that is both haunting and awe-inspiring, while the difficulty ensures a rewarding experience for those willing to face its trials. With boundless replayability and a rich, lore-filled world, "Elden Ring" stands as a triumph in dark fantasy gaming.

Gameplay:
"Ghostrunner" elevates the first-person action genre to new heights with its razor-sharp gameplay. Every move, from heart-pounding combat to exhilarating parkour, is executed with precision and finesse. The one-hit-kill mechanic keeps you on the edge of your seat, demanding split-second decisions and perfect timing. It's a choreographed dance of death that's as challenging as it is satisfying.

Graphics:
The visual presentation of "Ghostrunner" is nothing short of breathtaking. The neon-drenched cityscape and meticulously designed environments create a cyberpunk world that feels alive and immersive. The attention to detail is palpable, with a keen sense of verticality that keeps players engaged and constantly exploring new heights. From sprawling vistas to tight, claustrophobic spaces, the graphics are a testament to the game's artistry.

Difficulty:
This is not a game for the faint of heart. "Ghostrunner" presents a formidable challenge with its one-hit-kill mechanic and demanding encounters. The learning curve is steep, and some sections may require persistence and strategic thinking. However, for those seeking a true test of skill, the difficulty serves as a satisfying crucible that rewards mastery of the game's mechanics.

Replayability:
While the story may not offer branching paths, the sheer joy of gameplay in "Ghostrunner" lends itself to replayability. Mastering each level, finding new routes, and perfecting combat sequences provides ample reason to revisit the game. Additionally, the game's time trial mode and leaderboards offer a competitive edge for those looking to push their skills to the limit.

Verdict:
"Ghostrunner" is a triumph of cybernetic mayhem, seamlessly blending heart-pounding gameplay with a visually stunning cyberpunk world. Its steep difficulty curve may deter some, but for those who embrace the challenge, it offers a truly rewarding experience. With its replayable nature and masterful execution, "Ghostrunner" stands as a testament to the potential of the genre.

Played 24 hours in 3 days, made me rage and I broke my desk with my fist.

10/10 would sacrifice my desk again.

started playing, got killed by a hacker flying around with awp. 10/10 would get shrekt again.