VideoGamesCritic | The one source of truth for gamers

How this trust score was computed

Trust blends alignment (40%): does the outlet rank games the way players do; decoded accuracy (30%): after translating the outlet's own scale habits (a '7/10 means mediocre' scale is decoded, not punished), how well its reviews predict player sentiment; and player-side (30%): on games where press consensus and players sharply disagreed, whose side it took. Recent reviews weigh more (2-year half-life), and the blend is shrunk toward a neutral prior (60) so small samples can't peg the scale. Player quality is launch-window Steam sentiment, so outlets aren't punished for reviewing a launch build that later got patched.

Alignment (40%)

Decoded accuracy (30%)

Player-side (30%)

Controversy record: on 10 games where press consensus and players sharply disagreed, this reviewer sided with players 5 times.

Computed 6m ago · full methodology →

Outlet vs. players

Each dot is a game both this outlet and players scored. The dashed line is perfect agreement: dots above it mean the outlet was more generous than players, below it more harsh.

Biggest disagreements with players

The receipts: games where this outlet's verdict landed furthest from player sentiment.

Recent reviews (71 tracked)

100
DRAGON QUEST VII ReimaginedFeb 2, 2026 · Mark Fajardo
“Dragon Quest VII Reimagined stands as a definitive version of one of the series’ most ambitious entries. By carefully modernizing its structure, refining its systems, and reimagining its presentation—while preserving the emotional and thematic core that made the original so enduring—Square Enix has delivered a remake that respects its legacy without being constrained by it. Its deliberate pacing will not appeal to everyone, but for those willing to invest the time, the reward is one of the richest, most thoughtfully constructed JRPG experiences available today. This is not just a successful remake—it is a masterclass in how to reintroduce a classic for a new generation without losing its soul.”
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100
DRAGON QUEST I & II HD-2D RemakeOct 29, 2025 · Mark Fajardo
“Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake sets a new gold standard for how classic RPGs should be revived. It’s visually stunning, mechanically polished, and emotionally resonant—a love letter to the origins of one of gaming’s most important franchises. Whether you’re reliving the past or discovering Alefgard for the first time, this remake isn’t just a return to where it all began—it’s a reminder of why we fell in love with RPGs in the first place.”
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75
Rise of the RoninMar 6, 2025 · Josh Garibay
“Rise of the Ronin brings Team Ninja's killer combat to an open world, making for a samurai playground with much to love and even more to see. While the open world design fails to live up to the higher points set by the robust combat mechanics and the loot system is ridiculously over-the-top, there are gems among the clutter, such as building Bonds with memorable allies, seeing how player decisions affect the ending and taking out enemies with a friend.”
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85
Monster Hunter WildsMar 4, 2025 · Josh Garibay
“Monster Hunter Wilds represents multiple generations of refinement, marking the mechanically strongest entry to date. The monster roster boasts fan favorites and all-new beasts in equal measure, ensuring that all manner of Hunter has something to learn in this streamlined outing. Unfortunate performance woes and a clunky co-op system weigh down proceedings a bit, but neither can topple the adrenaline-fueled thrill of overcoming High Rank hunts.”
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90
Tales of Graces f RemasteredJan 24, 2025 · Mark Fajardo
“Tales of Graces f Remastered is a nostalgic yet refreshed experience that successfully brings a beloved classic to a new generation of gamers. With its engaging combat system, thoughtful character development, and quality-of-life improvements, the game feels modern while retaining the charm that Tales fans adore. Although its pacing and dungeon designs may show their age, the remaster’s polished visuals, accessibility features, and improved performance make it a joy to play on both handheld and PC platforms. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this remaster offers an excellent opportunity to dive into one of the most underrated entries in the series.”
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65
FREEDOM WARS RemasteredJan 16, 2025 · Josh Garibay
“Freedom Wars Remastered digs up a decade old Vita game and breathes new life into it for modern platforms and audiences. While the joy of its original form remains in tact, the remaster only features a handful of quality of life updates, leaving it an overly simple re-release. Freedom Wars Remastered will excite those who have found themselves engrossed by nostalgia over the past several years, but it's unlikely to draw new interest in its largely unaltered state.”
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75
DYNASTY WARRIORS: ORIGINSJan 13, 2025 · Josh Garibay
“Dynasty Warriors Origins is a strong return for the franchise, one that appears confident in its skin. Combat feels and looks better than ever, offering more nuance and tactical depth as swathes of foes are felled on the battlefield. The loss of the vast roster for a single playable character and a cooperative mode weigh heavy, but they are still outweighed by the notable accomplishments found everywhere else in Omega Force’s refinement of the series’ longstanding formula.”
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90
FANTASIAN Neo DimensionDec 4, 2024 · Mark Fajardo
“Fantasian Neo Dimension is a masterfully crafted JRPG that successfully bridges classic turn-based mechanics with modern conveniences and a visually stunning diorama-style world. From its deeply engaging narrative and rich character development to its innovative Dimengeon system and captivating soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu, the game is a love letter to JRPG fans. While its origins as a mobile game might raise eyebrows, Fantasian proves to be a fully fleshed-out experience, offering hours of compelling gameplay with a perfect blend of exploration, strategy, and storytelling. The added polish in this console and PC release, including enhanced voice acting and improved accessibility, makes it an even more enjoyable experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Mistwalker or new to their work, Fantasian is a must-play that stands tall among its genre.”
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100
Metaphor: ReFantazioOct 9, 2024
“In so many ways Metaphor: ReFantazio brings the Persona formula to the next level. By blending a captivating narrative, deep characters that grabs players without letting go. This is furthered thanks to the Archetype, and Synergy systems, which add some much needed strategy. In addition to that, it's a Visually stunning experience that offers beautifully designed environments, and a stellar soundtrack. All of this makes for an amazing experience that RPG fans absolutely must experience.”
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75
SWORD ART ONLINE Fractured DaydreamOct 7, 2024 · Mark Fajardo
“While I wouldn't say Sword Art Online Fractured Daydream breaks the mold, it does a lot of cool things that are worth experiencing. The wide range of characters, coupled with a plethora of stats create an experience that encourages players to give it their all. This, coupled with thrilling modes like co-op quests makes it an experience that might not reinvent the wheel, but it is a lot of fun with plenty of room to grow.”
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80
EARTH DEFENSE FORCE: WORLD BROTHERSSep 26, 2024 · Josh Garibay
“Earth Defense Force: World Brothers 2 is the same alien-blasting goodness you have come to know and love cranked up to 11 thanks to the absolutely absurd cast of characters. It's sillier and more approachable than its mainline brethren, making for a welcoming jumping on point for anyone curious about these B-movie style guilty pleasures. World Brothers 2 not only stands comfortably shoulder-to-shoulder with the core series, but it's a spin-off that adds to that formula in fun new ways.”
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80
Dead Rising Deluxe RemasterSep 24, 2024 · Mark Fajardo
“What made Dead Rising a classic was the ability to grab outlandish items, and use said item to defeat seemingly endless waves of enemies. Nearly 20 years later this still holds true. In fact, given how much the world has changed since 2006 there is arguably even more novelty in things like a CD store, or even the mall setting itself. It's a shame other areas highlight Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster age, but anyone looking to reexperience the delight that comes from putting a Servbot helmet on a zombie, and then killing it with a 2×4 will certainly walk away with a smile on their face.”
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85
The ThaumaturgeMar 4, 2024 · Josh Garibay
“The Thaumaturge is a rich narrative experience that contains a world awaiting the player's influence. Maneuvering through society's upper and lower classes, gaining insight into their specific struggles and desires as you pursue stunningly-designed salutors makes for a strong impression, even if the regular flow of on-screen text that begs to be read leads to periods of downtime. Even with the slow-burn pacing in mind, The Thaumaturge presents an emotionally engaging, morally grey trip through early 20th century Poland with a dash of mysticism and a heaping spoonful of inquisitive exploration.”
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100
FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTHFeb 22, 2024 · Mark Fajardo
“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth shines as a standout game of 2024, offering players an expansive and immersive experience that keeps them engaged from beginning to end. With a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh innovations, Rebirth surpasses its predecessor in every way. From its stunning open-world exploration to its polished combat system and fun side activities, Rebirth sets a new benchmark for JRPGs. All these things combine to cement Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s status as a must-play game that will likely remain one of the year’s best titles.”
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60
Skull and BonesFeb 17, 2024 · Josh Garibay
“Skull and Bones is finally a real, fully-launched product after several years of troubled development. While some components manage to pleasantly surprise, like ship buildcrafting and general ship-to-ship combat, the jankiness on the technical front, the exhausting live service components and the slim yet grindy endgame leave a lot to be desired. As always with live service titles, we can look towards the next year of seasons and additional content to see how it develops, but for now Skull and Bones is a middling recreation of the pirate fantasy.”
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Infinite Start

How this trust score was computed

Outlet vs. players

Biggest disagreements with players

Recent reviews (71 tracked)