Gaming

Donkey Kong Bananza is the second first-party title to release on the Nintendo Switch 2, a little over a month after Mario Kart World. Quite a lot is riding on this game being a success given the release date and exclusive platform that it is on. Adding onto pressure, it has been over a decade since the release of a new main-line Donkey Kong title. Back in 2014 during the grim era of the Wii U, “Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze” released with good reception and decent reviews. Despite the reception, there was no denying that the series was lacking in innovation and struggled to break out of traditional side-scrolling conventions. That is until now as we witness the DK series undergoing its boldest re-invention yet. 

Fast-paced movement with a variety to do in-between; Sonic x Shadow Generation doubles down on the 2D and 3D formula to deliver the most refined experience yet. Chances are, you have probably played a Sonic game before, or have at least seen how a game from the series looks and plays. There is plenty of cross-over from previous Sonic titles in this game, as it blends its captivating psychological story into its world and characters. Running through enemies so fast that they explode, and more, sells the pizzazz of this action packed title. 

Pepper Grinder takes simple inputs and seamlessly blends them with various fluid traversal mechanics to add versatility and amplify the freedom of expression in the player’s movement. It is a wonderful 2D platformer that adds a unique spin to the method of getting around that naturally entices the player to keep going. The music and sound design are captivating in their own right and further enrich the experience for the player. 

When it comes to puzzle games there are few that captivate the way that Cocoon does. Very early into game-play you will realize how special it is in a lot of ways. The multi-dimensional space-time hopping is the real magic sauce that sells this experience. The game makes use of mechanics that so fine-tuned, that even the later more-challenging puzzles feel exhilarating to play through. Everything feels smooth like butter, from the game-play to the great visuals and slick animations.