videogamescritic
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54

Vandal

PressTrust score from 730 scored reviews vs. players

matches players
Bias
within ~10 pts
Vs player sentiment
0.34
Ranks like players
730
Games compared

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.

67
Alignment (40%)
69
Decoded accuracy (30%)
20
Player-side (30%)

Controversy record: on 109 games where press consensus and players sharply disagreed, this reviewer sided with players 13 times.

Computed 44m 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 (1217 tracked)

  • 90

    It is the best comeback we could have dreamed of for the series after 20 years of silence. Onimusha: Way of the Sword won us over, despite initial reservations and the occasional hiccup along the journey—inevitable given its generous length. It delivers pure, unadulterated action without trying to turn the franchise into something it isn't, offering a truly grand adventure packed with memorable characters, formidable bosses, and a magnificent setting. One could hardly ask for more from a Capcom currently firing on all cylinders and racking up serious Game of the Year contenders... Except, perhaps, that they treat *Dino Crisis* with the same affection they are now showing Onimusha.

    read full review ↗
  • 87

    Ultimately, it is clear that Star Wars: Zero Company represents the kind of crossover concept that seemed obvious on paper but which no one had dared to execute with such competence. While the game does not reinvent the XCOM formula—nor does it likely aim to—it finds ample justification for its own identity within the tactical genre through mechanics like the Advantage system, Assists, the cycle-based management of the Hideout, and, above all, its character-bonding system. All of this is complemented by a particularly attractive, low price point. For us, it is undoubtedly one of the best Star Wars games of recent years, alongside Star Wars Jedi: Survivor.

    read full review ↗
  • 70
    DuskfadeAug 25, 2026

    All in all, Duskfade is an action-platformer that succeeds in the areas that immediately catch the eye—art, atmosphere, and a surprisingly deep story—but falls somewhat short regarding long-term engagement, featuring combat that starts strong but gradually loses its spark. For anyone nostalgic for PS2-era platformers who doesn't mind a bit of repetition, it is a purchase worth making.

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  • 87

    ReStory: Chill Electronics Repairs delivers a deeply satisfying and nostalgic experience set in mid-2000s Tokyo. It blends authentic hardware restoration mechanics with a compelling, character-driven narrative. While the painting system lacks depth and long sessions reveal repetitive loops, the tactile joy of repairing retro tech makes this a standout cozy title.

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  • 80

    This roguelite delivers an addictive experience centered on a brilliant, free-form spell-crafting system that rewards deep experimentation. Combat feels intuitive and responsive, yet the gameplay loop occasionally suffers from repetition. While the narrative remains unfinished, the stunning orchestral score and vibrant art design create a compelling journey despite current content gaps.

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  • 87
    Desktop ExplorerAug 20, 2026

    Neither the plot nor the underlying technological themes are particularly gripping, but the way the story is told—and, above all, how one uncovers the journals that piece it together—certainly is. It achieves this by having players solve puzzles—unlike in any other game—that constantly introduce interconnected settings, gameplay mechanics, and ideas. For those of us who like to play with a small notebook by the keyboard, *Recurring Dream* is a dream come true. Here’s hoping we won’t have to wait long for it to become a recurring experience.

    read full review ↗
  • 92

    Added to this is a narrative that is far deeper than it initially appears and is expertly crafted. Information reaches us in a fragmented, clinical manner—via teletype machines, observer reports, wartime press dispatches—and this deliberate detachment ultimately reinforces the sense of isolation within the machine, heightening immersion and providing the perfect finishing touch to what is undoubtedly one of the best games of the year so far.

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  • 85
    Mortal Shell IIAug 17, 2026

    Mortal Shell II delivers a breathtaking evolution that cements the series as a soulslike powerhouse. It blends stunning art direction with a refined, versatile combat system that far exceeds its predecessor. Although repetitive minor dungeons and lingering bugs occasionally hinder immersion, the exploration remains consistently addictive and visually overawing.

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  • 90

    It delivers a frantic, deeply strategic 4v4 tag experience that masterfully balances accessibility for newcomers with the complexity veteran fighters crave. The stunning visual presentation and rocking soundtrack cement its status as an instant classic, although the launch roster feels slightly lean and the PC version faces optimization hurdles.

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  • 90

    This remake delivers a stunning graphical overhaul that remains faithful to the original art style while introducing fresh content. The new prequel missions provide meaningful narrative depth, yet the absence of competitive multiplayer leaves a void. Despite its familiarity for veterans, the refined gunplay and flexible Remix mode ensure a definitive, modern experience.

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  • 85
    Splatoon RaidersJul 21, 2026

    It delivers a masterclass in looter-shooter progression, blending addictive ink-based combat with deep customization. This loop remains consistently rewarding despite repetitive mission structures and lackluster environmental variety. Although the soundtrack fails to hit previous heights, the seamless performance and robust cooperative integration define a surprisingly essential experience.

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  • 90
    Denshattack!Jul 20, 2026

    It delivers a brilliantly absurd arcade experience that blends the precision of OlliOlli with the vibrant, rebellious soul of the Dreamcast era. The responsive controls and addictive replayability make every combo feel rewarding, although the pacing occasionally falters in overly complex, branching levels. It stands as a creative, high-energy triumph.

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  • 80

    This remake delivers a stunning visual overhaul of the Caribbean, particularly through its incredible water simulation and organic progression. Yet, the modernized combat sacrifices the classic power fantasy for clunky realism. Despite its technical ambition, persistent crashes and outdated AI frequently disrupt the experience, preventing this beautiful voyage from reaching its full potential.

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  • 69

    With strong presentation and a promising premise, the adventure entertains while it lasts but leaves no lasting impression. Nevertheless—and although it is a shame that the positive vibes of the opening and the navigation sequences don't quite reach their full potential—the game’s reflection on how past trauma shapes our perception of the present, along with its use of light as a narrative device, are elements to appreciate during the five or six hours it takes to reach the end credits. If these themes interest you, it is worth giving the game a chance. Otherwise, it is best to let Will shoulder the burden of his past decisions alone.

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  • 80
    and RogerJul 9, 2026

    TearyHand Studio’s title would truly excel if it unequivocally embraced the language of video games—telling this deeply real story without relying on text—and if it steered clear of moralizing and the occasional odd eccentricity. Players familiar with *Florence* might miss out on some of the impact Roger offers, but that won’t stop them from being moved by the story or appreciating the way it is told.

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