Bear Reviews Games!
After a decade of music journalism for Musicalypse and Tuonela Magazine that started in 2011, I’ve developed a love of writing critical analyses of things that interest me. Please enjoy everything from video game reviews to the occasional TTRPG system review, board games, and even a rare mobile game from time to time.
My goal, as a critical reviewer, is not to trash people’s work, because effort deserves respect. I try my best to be objective, while still sharing my personal feelings based on my own experiences.
Why Harmony - The Fall of Reverie Is a Brillianet Depiction of Grief
A personal essay on grief, my personal experience and the brilliant way it was portrayed in the 2023 video game, Harmony: The Fall of Reverie
The Last Campfire (2020) Review: A Surprisingly Deep Look at How We Help One Another
The Last Campfire (2020) is a charming puzzle game with deep emotional themes. This review explores its core mechanics and story, highlighting how the atmosphere and heart shine through as Ember helps lost souls find their way. Despite a few minor quirks, it offers a relaxing and meaningful experience.
Cult of the Lamb (2022) Review: The Cutest Chaos
This review of Cult of the Lamb (2022) explores its cute art and chaotic gameplay, which offers a rogue-lite cult simulation experience. While the game excels in humor and style, it’s hindered by lag and some imbalanced weapon mechanics. Read about how, despite these flaws, the game remains freakishly fun, with a unique balance of resource management and hack ‘n’ slash combat.
Super Mario Odyssey (2017) Review: How Does it Hold Up for a Classic Mario Lover?
This review explores Super Mario Odyssey (2017), a colorful 3D platformer that brings fresh mechanics and quirky worlds to the classic Mario series. While it leans heavily into child-friendly territory and lacks overall challenge, the game’s engaging levels, nostalgic nods, and whimsical characters make it a solid, fun experience for family gaming.
West of Loathing (2017): Whimsical Weirdness at its Finest
West of Loathing (2017) delivers a quirky RPG adventure set in a bizarre wild west filled with goblins, clowns, and demon cows. Its turn-based combat, random encounters, and hilarious quests make for a surprisingly balanced and fun experience. Check out this review to see if their brand of humor is up your alley.
Baten Kaitos -Eternal Wings & the Lost Ocean (2023 remaster) Review: A Sucker-Punch to My Nostalgia Center
Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings & the Lost Ocean (2023 remaster) is a nostalgic return to a classic JRPG. This review explores its occasional clichés and weak romance, the game’s story, world-building, and its plot twists. Fans of card-based gaming and JRPGs don’t want to miss this one a second time.
The First Tree (2017) Review: A Hit or Miss Journey Through Grief
The First Tree (2017) is an indie developer’s effort to weave a tale of grief through a fox’s journey. This review explores what the game has to offer in style and sound, while delving into why its metaphors and gameplay don’t resonate as deeply as they could. If you’re seeking a deeper narrative, this one might leave you wanting more.
Donut County (2018) Review: Where Simplistic Weirdness Works
Donut County (2018) is a deliciously simple game where you control a hole that swallows everything in its path. If you’re looking for a lighthearted game to kill some time, this review will hopefully help you decide if its humor is for you!
GAME REVIEW: Snufkin - Melody of Muuminvalley (2024)
A video game review of Snufkin: Melody of Muuminvalley // Nuuskamuikkunen: Muumilaakson Melodia
GAME REVIEW: Kirby and the Forgotten Land (2022)
A video game review of Kirby and the Forgotten Land (2022)
