Recent reviews by Kidd (Barbut)

Dredge is a masterful blend of exploration, fishing, and cosmic horror, and it's a game that I can't help but wholeheartedly recommend. Trying to compare it to anything else is a challenge, as the elements that define Dredge are uniquely its own. The art style, at times, evokes a hint of Disco Elysium, but that's where any comparison ends. Dredge truly stands in a league of its own.

From the outset, Dredge allows you the freedom to explore its mysterious waters in whichever direction your curiosity takes you. The balance between fishing and exploration is expertly crafted, making each day on the open sea feel like a new adventure. The art direction is captivating, the soundtrack hauntingly atmospheric, and the day/night cycle adds a layer of tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The game offers a world brimming with small secrets and subtle scares, and while that might sound simple, it's precisely this restrained approach that makes Dredge so compelling.

However, no game is without its flaws. The fishing mechanics, while enjoyable, are fairly simplistic, and some aspects of inventory management can become a bit of a chore. Additionally, for those who love to achieve 100% completion, it’s worth noting that some achievements are tied to the game’s DLCs. The full package, when considering all expansions, can push the price into AA territory, which might feel a bit steep for an indie title. But even with these minor drawbacks, Dredge delivers one of the most memorable indie experiences of the year.

In the end, Dredge is a wonderful 20-ish hour journey. If you're looking for something unique, atmospheric, and thoroughly engaging, this is the game to dive into. Sorry for the pun.

Is Nioh still worth your time in 2024?

While Nioh's combat and boss battles shine brightly, the game's repetitive nature and uninspired level design become painfully apparent as the hours drag on. Despite having a strong foundation with its varied progression system and challenging encounters, the game fails to maintain momentum due to its lackluster story and monotonous enemies.

If you've already experienced the heights of other titles like Dark Souls and Sekiro, you might find yourself asking the same question I did: is it really worth pushing through to the end? Unfortunately, Nioh might be one to leave unfinished, a relic that hasn’t aged as gracefully as its contemporaries.

Great ingame dialog choices and replay value. Planescape Torment meets disco.

Truly one of the best games I've played in recent years. Memorable characters and setting. Also, the DLCs offer engaging storytelling and visuals. A must-play for all fantasy lovers out there.