This is a list of games I've played and a short review for each one of them.
Note, I have a personal preference for puzzle games that include a compelling story and deeper philosophical themes. While the ideal game for me would combine puzzle gameplay, a thought-provoking story, and first-person shooter elements, I am also satisfied if a game effectively combines just two of these elements well.
Popcorn Classics
No matter your preferable genre, these are games you must play:
- Night in the Woods
- Oxenfree
- Celeste
- Dusk
- Post Void
- Firewatch
- Outer Wilds
- Subnautica
- Portal
- Rime
- The Talos Principle
- Scorn
Games
- Short Story Games
- Adventure Games
- FPS Games
- 2D Platformers
- 2D Story Based Games
- 2D Puzzle Games
- 3D Story Based Walking Simulators
- 3D Story Based Puzzle Games
- 3D Puzzle Games
- Concept Games
Short Story Games
Iron Lung
Despite its short playtime of around 1.5 hours, this game manages to be a decent experience. However, some players may find the controls a bit awkward, and the slow pace of the game may make it feel repetitive.
While it's understandable that games of this type often have limited story and environments, more explanation of the world building could have improved the overall immersion. Overall, it's a decent, if unremarkable, title.
I give this game bags of popcorn and I'll throw in some spare lungs ๐ซ.
Fingerbones
Fingerbones is a very simplistic game in terms of mechanics and visual elements. The story was predictable and any sort of gameplay mechanics, basically the game consisted of pressing buttons and reading notes to unlock parts of the map.
If you have a short amount of time and are looking for a tragic and unsettling storyline, this game may be worth a try. However, those looking for more intricate gameplay and challenges may want to look elsewhere.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ฆด for the predictable spoiler right in the title of the game.
Moon Sliver
Moon Sliver is a short walking simulator game that excels in storytelling and incorporates themes inspired by the Bible. Players will spend most of their time walking and reading notes as they attempt to unravel the mystery of the game's plot.
While it may not be the developer's best work (they are known for creating the popular game "Dusk"), it is a decent way to pass the time if you have an hour to spare and are interested in horror games with a unique twist.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in a moon ๐ for the dark and twisted fate of the universe.
A Wolf in Autumn
Another title from the creator of Dusk, this short game features an interesting psychological story with limited puzzle mechanics and colorful visuals. It has a dark and tragic story elements and suits those looking for short horror theme games
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ถ baby, because, you know.
Bughouse
This short horror game offers a captivating and poignant narrative. Its atmospheric and audio design effectively contribute to a tense and unsettling atmosphere, though it may not be overly frightening for players who prefer to avoid jump scares.
Players can also experience multiple endings, adding to the replay value of the game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ช for the villain of the story, which he played perfectly.
The Supper
This game is a quick and cute experience that is perfect for a short gaming session. While the graphics are charming, the overall plot falls a bit flat due to a predictable twist at the end. However, as a free game, it is still worth checking out for a quick distraction.
I give this game bags of popcorn and some food ๐ฒ to go.
We Went Back
This game is a well-crafted, concise experience that leaves a lasting impression despite its brevity. While it may not offer a high level of player interaction, the polish and attention to detail are evident. The storyline, while predictable at times, is engaging and could have easily been expanded upon in a longer game. The horror elements present may not be suitable for all players, but overall it is a worthwhile and enjoyable short story game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in an extra โฎ for the nature of the game.
Cloud Climber
I found that this title was a refreshingly brief and thought-provoking experience. Its gameplay could be described as more of a walking simulator, with a strong emphasis on narrative and atmosphere. While the story was easy to predict based on the introduction, the themes it tackled were highly relevant in todays society. Overall, this game is a worthwhile investment for players looking for a meaningful, introspective experience.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in some ๐ง since this world really need its.
Adventure Games
Subnautica
Subnautica is a game that truly captures the feeling of immersive, adventurous exploration. From start to finish, it keeps you engaged with its vast, movie-like experience. While the story may be a bit light unless you're willing to read all the additional books and notes, the game more than makes up for it with its highly engaging gameplay and well-designed crafting system.
The underwater environments in particular are truly a highlight, with a sense of vastness and mystery that will have you constantly wondering what lies around the next corner. The land areas, while not quite as well-designed, do offer a nice change of pace and help to break up the gameplay.
Overall, Subnautica is a must-play for fans of adventure games and anyone who enjoys the feeling of exploration and discovery. Its immersive environments and well-crafted gameplay make it a standout title in the genre.
I give this game bags of popcorn and the alchemy symbol ๐ for air.
Subnautica: Below Zero
The sequel to Subnautica introduces land exploration as a gameplay feature, but it falls short compared to the well-crafted underwater areas. The land areas lack the same depth and traversal options, and the map feels smaller with a shallower maximum depth.
While the vast snow landscapes offer a new setting, they do not capture the magic of the first game, which relied on the sense of isolation and abandonment that came from being the only human on the planet. The addition of characters and voice acting detracts from this atmosphere and feels unnecessary in the context of the game.
In terms of gameplay, the crafting system remains similar to the first game, but the lack of the largest submarine available in the first game is a disappointment. Overall, while the sequel does not fully capture the magic of the original, it is still a well-made game and worth playing for fans of the first Subnautica.
I give this game bags of popcorn and some extra ๐ since hopefully future iterations will focus on the water areas.
Outer Wilds
The world in this game is truly stunning and immersive. While the gameplay can become a bit repetitive after extended play sessions, the beautiful graphics and captivating story more than make up for it.
The sequel to this game only enhances the experience, with a new map area and an engaging plot that seamlessly ties into the original game. Overall, this is a must-play for any fan of the genre.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ for the beautiful universe it presents.
Claire de Lune
Overall, I found this game to be polished and well-done. Its playlength of around 5 hours was decent, and the puzzles were intriguing and well-integrated with the story. The AI companion was a comedic highlight and reminded me of the beloved Portal games. While some of the puzzle-solving elements felt a bit repetitive, this was a minor issue in the grand scheme of things.
I was surprised by the negative reception from the community, as I personally felt that this game was just a step below the Portal series in terms of quality.
The only real area where the game fell short, in my opinion, was the lack of multiple endings. The ending was predictable and there were no decisions to be made that would alter the outcome. Despite this flaw, I still highly recommend this game to fans of puzzle-adventures with strong storytelling.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a music note ๐ for the title.
Call of the Sea
Featuring a captivating narrative and challenging but not overly difficult puzzles, this game delivers an immersive and rewarding experience for fans of Lovecraftian-inspired storytelling.
While the movement mechanics may be a bit clunky and exploration can be slow-paced, the rich and expansive landscape more than makes up for it.
Overall, an excellent choice for those who enjoy a good puzzle game with a strong narrative element.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in the starter ๐.
Moons of Madness
For fans of Lovecraftian storytelling, this game delivers on all fronts. While the puzzles may be a bit too easy for some, the multiple endings add a nice touch of decision-making to the gameplay. The atmosphere is suitably dark and creepy, though jump scares are mostly confined to the early parts of the game. One minor frustration is the somewhat slow walking speed, which can make traversing the game's vast areas feel cumbersome at times. Overall, a great story-based game for players looking for a spooky, immersive experience.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in a couch ๐, because the protagonist really needs to visit a therapist at the end of it.
Amnesia: The Dark Descent
This game boasts a rich and dark story that is sure to keep players on the edge of their seats. While it may be marketed as a horror game, it relies more on a disturbing atmosphere rather than cheap jump scares. The gameplay mechanics are intriguing, albeit a bit clunky at times. While it does feature some puzzles, they are quite simple and not particularly engaging, often requiring players to collect an item and then use it in a specific location. However, where this game truly shines is in its captivating narrative and how it unfolds as you progress through the game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in elevator ๐, for an easier descent.
Scorn
This game boasts a truly immersive and dark atmosphere, with disturbing scenery that paints a bleak picture of the future. Its philosophical elements invite players to delve deeper and grasp the deeper meanings of the game. The story is captivating, almost feeling like a movie, and keeps players engaged throughout.
While the puzzle element may be lacking, it is not the main draw of the game. Also, some may criticize the combat mechanics, but this game is not meant to be a fast-paced shooter and should not be judged as such. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this game for its exceptional storytelling, sound design, atmosphere, and world-building.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a hospital ๐ฅ, think some of the people are in dire need of one.
Kredolis
While the concept of a story-based puzzle game that unfolds as you progress is intriguing, the execution falls short in this release. The mechanics and puzzles are unremarkable and fail to provide a truly satisfying gameplay experience.
The ending also leaves much to be desired. Overall, the lack of cohesive design, subpar sound and visuals, and various performance issues make this a disappointing entry in the genre.
I give this game bags of popcorn and the letter ฮ.
FPS Games
DUSK
As a fan of the genre, I was thrilled to see this game tap into the nostalgia of older titles while still bringing fresh mechanics to the table. The narrative serves as a strong driving force, keeping players engaged and invested in the story. The UI controls for loading and saving did have a few hiccups, but the overall mechanics of the game were top-notch.
It's always refreshing to see violence in a game not just used for mindless entertainment, but rather as a means to further the plot and immerse the player in the world. Overall, a strong offering for fans of the genre.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in a โ and a ๐ช for the iconic chainsaw wielding maniacs.
AMID EVIL
Amid Evil is a classic first-person shooter that offers precise controls and an impressive arsenal of weapons and abilities.
The graphics are great, and features several levels with stunning visuals, especially the latter parts of the game. The gameplay is well-paced, providing a satisfying experience from beginning to end.
While the story may not be the main attraction of the game, it is decent and adequately supports the gameplay.
In short, fans of FPS games will definitely want to check out this title for its enjoyable gameplay and passable narrative.
I give this game bags of popcorn and shooting star ๐ for the magical weapons yielded in this game.
INDUSTRIA
Overall, this first-person shooter falls short in terms of gameplay mechanics and technical performance. Its linear level design and limited ways to defeat enemies leave little room for player creativity and exploration.
While the game has potential with its intriguing storyline, interesting enemies, and immersive world-building and atmosphere, it ultimately fails to deliver a fully fleshed out and enjoyable experience.
Additionally, I encountered a couple of game-breaking bugs during my time with the game. In the end, this game feels like a missed opportunity.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ค for the cute and deadly robots in the game.
SUPERHOT
First of all, I'm a fan of FPS games and I have to say this game has a nice feel to it. Sometimes less is more and I feel this game is an embodiment of said phrase. It shares a common theme with [Thomas was alone](#thomas-was-alone) in that it employs a simple game design and graphics alongside a somewhat original and enthralling plot.
In the end, it's more about the gameplay but I feel that if it was the old kill the bad guy revenge tale, I wouldn't have finished the game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ฅ just for warmth.
SUPERHOT: MIND CONTROL DELETE
Superhot: Mind Control Delete is a sequel to the popular FPS game Superhot. While it features innovative bullet time mechanics, it falls short in terms of delivering a unique and engaging storyline compared to its predecessor. The addition of new power-ups and a mini-map to guide players to new levels is a nice touch, but it ultimately does not add much to the overall experience of the game.
Overall, while Superhot: Mind Control Delete may be a decent choice for fans of the original game, it doesn't offer anything new that is worthwhile.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ฅ just for warmth.
Post Void
This game nails the saying "do one thing and do it well.", and for a FPS game it's basically click heads and get to the finish line as quickly as possible.
The psychedelic visuals, paired with an immersive soundtrack, keep you on your toes at all times.
The randomly generated levels add an element of surprise on each play through, and the quick and precise gameplay provide a satisfying feedback loop.
Even for seasoned FPS players, this game can be challenging, but that's all part of the fun. Overall, this is a standout title in the FPS genre.
I give this game bags of popcorn and I'll throw in the starter ๐ซ.
2D Platformers
Blasphemous
Overall, the arcade mechanics in this game are top-notch and keep players engaged. While the special abilities could use some improvement, the rich story and lore more than make up for it. However, the cryptic presentation of the narrative may require players to turn to external resources like YouTube to fully grasp the plot.
I give this game bags of popcorn and I'll throw in an additional sin (gluttony) of mine ๐.
Celeste
The intro to the game is good, and the story is great, keeping the player engaged. The pixel art is also well done, and the controls are awesome, tight, and forgiving. The game has the perfect amount of features and gradually introduces the player to new abilities.
It also has that profound message that is always welcome in games and makes you reflect on your life.
I give this game bags of popcorn and I'll throw ๐ง for the main attraction of the game.
Another World
Released in 1991, Another World was known for its innovative gameplay and captivating story. While the puzzle elements may be on the simpler side, the mechanics of the game itself are highly engaging. However, players may find the movement controls a bit clunky, reminiscent of Prince of Persia, lacking the smooth precision of titles like Celeste.
I give this game bags of popcorn and another map ๐บ just so we know which world we live in.
The Way
The story line in this game is emotionally engaging, and the puzzles are well-crafted, with a good balance of challenge and satisfaction upon completion. The pixel graphics are a nostalgicically beautiful touch, and the game's length is just right.
Fans of classic titles like Another World will appreciate the nods to the past in this game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and the ๐ Milky Way galaxy to remind us the vastness of the universe.
Pinstripe
The game features an intriguing premise that keeps players engaged as the story unfolds. The graphics are visually appealing, but the puzzle design lacks creativity and can feel a bit simplistic. However, the tight controls make for enjoyable gameplay in the arcade-style setting.
Overall, while the game may be a bit on the shorter side, it offers a solid gaming experience.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ because there's no icon for pins.
Neversong
From the same developer as Pinstripe, this game may not offer anything significantly new in terms of gameplay, it still manages to deliver a decent story and enjoyable mechanics.
The town setting offers potential for further development, but unfortunately falls short in terms of side quests and enrichment of the overall narrative.
That being said, the developer's signature attention to detail is present in the cohesive package of sound, design, music, and visuals. Overall, Neversong may not be groundbreaking, but it still provides a enjoyable and cute experience for fans of story-based arcade games with some puzzles.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ท to remind us not to take work too seriously.
Katana ZERO
In terms of gameplay, the controls in this game are extremely tight and highly engaging. The story also stands out, with several unexpected twists that kept me engaged throughout. The pixel art graphics are very pretty, and they contribute to the rich atmosphere of the game. Overall, this is a top-notch title that any fan of the genre should check out.
I give this game bags of popcorn and let's throw in some swords โ while we're at it.
Axiom Verge
Think Metroid in terms of gameplay. The game is really well done, paces brilliantly, has an exciting story you can spend some time with after you've finished the game. Somewhat lacking in the gun variaty and skills, as there are more than 10 weapons in the game but you only use 2-3 at most, rendering the other useless.
Also had great soundtrack, the only game so far where I've looked up a song to listen to. Not that much replay value (unless you like to do speed runs or attempt to find all achievements), as I spent more time researching the story afterwards than replaying it.
A perfect throwback if you enoyed games like Metroid.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ for you to contemplate if it all was just a dream.
Hyper Light Drifter
In the same genre as [Axiom Verge](#axiom-verge) but somewhat lacks in the story department. It didn't make you as committed to the story as Axiom Verge did, in the sense the I felt story wasn't the main drive for finishing the game.
However, it offers great gameplay, just the right amount of difficulty and player choice when it comes to weapons and skills. The art is unqiue and retro like in its design.
I give this game bags of popcorn and ๐ค for the fast movement.
2D Story Based Games
Night in the Woods
My personal favorite. An adventure game where you follow a rebellious cat in her journey through early adulthood, displaying the struggles of simply being.
It was easy to get attached to the story and the characters and what's brilliant about the game is we get to experience two tracks, the main characters personal development as well a riveting story that keeps you guessing till the end.
I give this game bags of popcorn and I'll throw in some paw prints ๐พ for the cute protagonist.
The Cat Lady
A strange game with strange graphics in a strange environment following a normal human being. Yes, the main characters thoughts might be the only sane part of this game.
I have to say that I enjoyed this game more than I thought I would. The puzzles aren't too hard and for once it felt logical when solving them. It's not like some games which go out of their way to make the puzzles nonintuitive.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ฑ for the Cat Lady.
Oxenfree
If you're a fan of old highschool movies and adventour games with a bit of sci-fi in them, then this is your dream game. Everything about it felt authentic and well done, from the conversations to the problem solving aspect of the game. The game has high replay value if you're into exploring different endings. It is because you are an active participants of the conversations, and it is more like a gradient rather than there existing only 2-3 situations where you determine the outcome.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ป as an homage to the games spooky radio stations.
Twelve Minutes
Twelve Minutes is a puzzle game that revolves around a 12 minute time loop. The player must explore and discover the story within this loop, making choices that ultimately lead to one of several possible endings.
The gameplay mechanics are solid and the isometric visuals are visually appealing.
An interesting feature of the game is that player choices and morality play a role in determining the ending. Overall, Twelve Minutes offers a unique and engaging experience for players.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ for keeping time.
Tales of the Neon Sea
The story line in this game is gripping and well-developed, making for a fully fleshed out gaming experience. Fans of detective elements will particularly enjoy the abundance of such content in this game.
While the puzzle game mechanics may not be particularly innovative, they are numerous and highly engaging. The pixel graphics are also charming and add to the overall appeal of the game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ to help you solve the case.
LIMBO
This game offers a well-crafted narrative that kept me engaged from start to finish. The black and white visuals really helped to set the mood and enhance the overall atmosphere of the game. The puzzles were challenging, but the sense of accomplishment I felt when I finally solved them made it all worth it.
Overall, I highly recommend this game to anyone who enjoys a good story and rewarding puzzles.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐, because that's the closest to limbo we feel everyday.
INSIDE
A game where the ending brings more questions than answers. I liked it, both as platform game and its story. The art is beautiful, easy on the eye and quite addicting. Not the hardest game to finish, so enjoy the scenery while you play it, as the game doesn't have any replay value.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a some ๐ฅฉ to prepare you for the ending.
2D Puzzle Games
A Monster's Expedition
While the game received positive reception from players, I personally found the narrative unengaging and the puzzles lacking in complexity. As a result, I struggled to fully immerse myself in the gameplay experience as I have with other puzzle-solving titles.
I give this game bags of popcorn and an additional ๐งฉ because that's all this game is.
3D Story Based Walking Simulators
Firewatch
A brilliant first person story telling with vivid visualisations. The story and exploration of personal growth in the event of human loss is the main driving point of the game. I won't say anything else since I believe talking about "lessons learned" will spoil it. One of the joys with these types of games is experiencing the emotions and suspense of what happened, what may happened and what one wanted to happen. It's almost a movie like game, in that it has a clear beginning, middle and end.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ป to communicate with your only colleague.
3D Story Based Puzzle Games
RiME
With a captivating story that keeps players guessing and engaged from start to finish, this game is a must-play for fans of story-based puzzle games.
Despite having visual similarities to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, you would be mistaken were you expecting a RPG combat game as this is a completely different kind of game.
As players progress through the game, they will find that the puzzles become increasingly manageable, although the controls feel a bit unsteady at times. Overall, this game is a highly enjoyable and worthwhile experience that should not be missed.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a collectable โต .
Portal
An extremely impressive game that scores 10/10 in each category. Not only are game mechanics innovative and groundbreaking, but they are also implemented with tight controls that make gameplay a pleasure. The puzzles in this game are very rewarding to solve, and the story elements are rich and intriguing.
To top it all off, the AI companion in this game is both cute and humorous. Overall, this is an excellent game that is not to be missed.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ช that takes you somewhere secret.
Q.U.B.E. 2
This game boasts an engaging story and stunning graphics. The physics-based puzzles, in which players must utilize various blocks with unique properties, provide an enjoyable challenge. While the solution to each puzzle may not be immediately obvious, once the pattern is figured out, the puzzles are relatively straightforward and allow for a smooth gameplay experience.
It's important for a game like this to maintain a certain flow, and excessive time spent on a single puzzle can break that flow and disrupt the storytelling.
Overall, the puzzle element in this game strikes a good balance.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ง for unexplained reasons.
The Talos Principle
The story of this game is thought-provoking and revolves around philosophical concepts that challenge the player's understanding of the world. The physics-based puzzles are a delight to solve and once you develop a pattern recognition, you'll find yourself in a flow state.
If you get stuck on a puzzle, there's always the option to move on to another part of the map and try your hand at different challenges.
The game features multiple endings and encourages player choice, further enhancing the theme of free will that is consistently explored throughout the game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a several ๐ for the philosophy element of the game.
The Turing Test
In The Turing Test, players can expect a well-balanced blend of puzzles and storytelling. While the game may not bring any revolutionary new ideas to the table, it executes the basics of its genre effectively. The story, centered around AI, is engaging and satisfying to unravel as you progress through the game.
While there are some clunky mechanics present, they do not significantly impact the overall gameplay experience.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐งช tube for good measurement.
3D Puzzle Games
Superliminal
As a game with innovative mechanics, Superliminal certainly impresses. However, its storyline falls short, lacking the twists and turns that would have elevated it to greatness. It's clear that the primary focus was on gameplay, with the narrative feeling like an afterthought. Despite this, the mechanics themselves are smooth and provide a satisfying puzzle experience. If you're looking for a new and unique puzzle game, Superliminal is definitely worth checking out.
I give this game bags of popcorn and โ chess piece that you can enlarge by clicking it.
Manifold Garden
This game introduces innovative gameplay mechanics and provides a smooth, enjoyable experience for puzzle solvers. However, it does become somewhat repetitive over time. It should be noted that this game lacks a story line and is purely a standalone puzzle game.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a mandelbrot ๐ฒ for the recursive nature of the game.
Thomas Was Alone
Listen to awesome music by David Housden. Jump over rectangles meticulously placed by Mike Bithell. Listen to voiceover read wistfully and a bit amusingly by Danny Wallace.
A simple but surprisingly entertaining game. It goes to show you how much a story can affect the quality of a game. Overall, the buildup during the game was brilliant but the ending somewhat lacking. When it comes to the gameplay, it was rather pleasant. Some levels take about 10-20 seconds to solve whereas others take at most a couple of minutes, so don't expect to be challenged in any way. Overall, a fun little game that I didn't expect much from but that surprised me pleasantly.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a โฎ for Thomas.
Concept Games
The Stanley Parable
The game in question presents itself as a social experiment, offering multiple endings and an open-ended structure that encourages players to explore and discover the various tropes present within the gaming industry.
While it may not appeal to all players, those who are drawn to this title will find its commentary on the notions of choice and free will in gaming to be thought-provoking and humorous.
This is a game that warrants deeper study, and players may find themselves researching online for explanations and insights. Overall, it offers a unique and innovative take on the medium of games and their place in society.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐จ for Stanley.
Dr. Langeskov, The Tiger, and The Terribly Cursed Emerald: A Whirlwind Heist
This is a walking simulator that aims to entertain players through its unique brand of humor. However, this style of humor may not appeal to all players, and some may not find the game particularly enjoyable or rewarding.
It's worth noting that the game is more of a social experiment, and whether or not you enjoy it may depend on your personal preferences and sense of humor. I didn't personally find the game to be particularly meaningful or worthwhile.
I give this game bags of popcorn and a ๐ถ person since that's what you'll be doing.