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 4 games where press consensus and players sharply disagreed, this reviewer sided with players 1 time.

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 (52 tracked)

85
The Blood of DawnwalkerAug 31, 2026
“While it suffers from rough graphics and repetitive combat, The Blood of Dawnwalker delivers a deeply engaging narrative shaped by meaningful choices under a 30-day time limit. Driven by compelling characters and solid storytelling, it stands out as a rare gem among story-driven medieval RPGs.”
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84
Mortal Shell IIAug 18, 2026
“Despite minor quality-of-life drawbacks and a weaker final chapter, Mortal Shell 2 delivers a deeply immersive 40-hour journey driven by rewarding open exploration and distinct, impactful combat. It is a triumphant evolution over its predecessor that soulslike fans shouldn't miss.”
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83
Servant of the LakeAug 18, 2026
“Servant of the Lake faithfully maintains the franchise's iconic atmosphere and solid puzzle design while delivering a deeply satisfying payoff to long-standing lore mysteries. With its impeccably paced mechanics and rich content volume, it stands as a highly recommended entry for both series veterans and room-escape enthusiasts.”
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83
SephiriaAug 3, 2026
“Sephiria is an exceptional action roguelike that stays true to genre fundamentals while delivering explosive fun through rapid progression and endless build synergies. Proving Team Horay’s matured development capabilities since Dungreed, it comes highly recommended for players who love experimenting and crafting their own optimal builds.”
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86
Splatoon RaidersJul 31, 2026
“Splatoon Raiders is a fantastic spin-off that serves as a welcoming entry point for newcomers, while offering existing fans a clever looter-shooter expansion of Salmon Run. It is a highly satisfying treat that perfectly captures the franchise's signature charm.”
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88
Denshattack!Jul 16, 2026
“While minor visual rough spots and repetitive gold medal runs can feel tedious, Denshattack! delivers relentless excitement from start to finish with its endlessly creative track designs and high-octane train acrobatics.”
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76
Rhythm Heaven GrooveJul 8, 2026
“While Rhythm Heaven Groove is a welcome return and a solid choice for newcomers, it misses the mark on becoming an absolute legend once again.”
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84
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium TalesJun 17, 2026
“Reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda in its exploration, The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales shines with Square Enix's gorgeous HD-2D visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and deeply rewarding character customization. Despite a predictable narrative, it is a thoroughly delightful experience that cleverly blends classic JRPG nostalgia with engaging modern action RPG mechanics.”
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80
Crushed In TimeJun 15, 2026
“Crushed in Time subverts traditional adventure formulas, delivering a fresh tactile experience through ingenious level design and witty meta-humor. While it suffers from occasional frustration and late-game control fatigue, the game shines with its genre-defying concepts and high level of polish.”
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86
Mina the HollowerJun 1, 2026
“Mina the Hollower masterfully blends nostalgic 90s retro aesthetics with punishing Soulslike mechanics to deliver a highly rewarding action-adventure experience. While its intentional unfriendliness creates a steep barrier to entry, the game's exceptional polish, deep exploration, and deeply satisfying combat make it well worth the struggle.”
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80
Yoshi and the Mysterious BookMay 27, 2026
“While Yoshi and the Mysterious Book departs from the traditional series formula to focus almost entirely on observation and collection, it beautifully captures Yoshi's unique charm and the pure joy of exploration. It may lack conventional platforming action, but it offers a deeply satisfying experience for completionists and those who love uncovering the secrets of a vibrant, unknown ecosystem.”
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85
SAROSApr 27, 2026
“Although Saros struggles with an ambiguous narrative and limited enemy variety, Housemarque's signature refined action and stunning cosmic horror visuals easily steal the show. By toning down the punishing difficulty of their previous title, the developers have crafted an excellent gateway for players who were previously intimidated by hardcore roguelikes and bullet-hell shooters.”
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72
REPLACEDApr 21, 2026
“Replaced proves its visual and narrative artistry through an unprecedented blend of 2D and 3D graphics, alongside a profound story that explores the true meaning of humanity. However, it ultimately misses out on the essential fun of a video game, dragged down by glaring flaws such as an empty map design, excessively slow pacing, and exhausting combat. While it boasts a dazzling exterior, its lack of gameplay depth makes the overall experience feel more like a tedious chore than an enjoyable adventure.”
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84
MOUSE: P.I. For HireApr 16, 2026
“MOUSE: P.I. For Hire perfectly blends classic animation aesthetics with exhilarating shooter action. Despite limited post-game content, its highly satisfying gunplay and solid level design make it an irresistible experience.”
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90
Crimson Desert EnhancedMar 18, 2026
“Crimson Desert presents a steep barrier to entry with its flat narrative, demanding controls, and heavy pacing. However, the game's massive open world, forged by Pearl Abyss's uncompromising vision rather than safe trends, is a unique achievement that sets a new milestone in the Korean gaming market. If you have the patience to overcome its initial unfriendliness, this fascinating continent is well worth your time to explore.”
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This Is Game

How this trust score was computed

Outlet vs. players

Biggest disagreements with players

Recent reviews (52 tracked)