Games & Gaming
From board games to video games there are great ways to relax, pass the time or just escape for a bit. Share what games you have been playing right here!
Ghost of Tsushima (2020) Playstation 4
I waited a bit after this game to come out, since I had been playing a lot of different games throughout the summer, but I’m SO glad I finally picked this up. The story is directed beautifully and the graphics are stunning! You play as a Samurai out to save his island from invaders. It’s an excellent combination of open-world and RPG. You are able to break from the story and do a variety of side-quests that help expand the world and connect to the various characters you meet along the way. The creators from SUCKERPUNCH also pay homage to the great Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa in which the player can change the game’s display to a grainy black and white filter, while also changing the language to Japanese. While I didn’t use it a lot throughout the game it adds an extra level of detail to the game. If you are a fan of games like Red Dead Redemption II, Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, or Horizon Zero Dawn, I’d pick this up.
- Ryan Weed
Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1+2 Remaster (2020) Playstation 4, Xbox One
I was a huge fan of these games growing up. I loved playing GRAFFITI and HORSE with my friends, and so great to jump back in! The graphics are beautifully restored and looking back at the old game the N64 version can’t even compete (but I still love it). The controls are much more intuitive than the original and there are a lot of accessibility options for new and experienced players. Also, I can’t forget to mention the soundtrack, everyone’s back including the game’s most famous song Superman by Goldfinger, while also bringing in modern artists like FIDLAR and Alex Lahey. THPS was a staple of its time, it brought more people into the work of skating and created a brand new genre. The remaster brings back the game to its 90s glory while also updating the gameplay, graphics and interface to the 21st century.
- Ryan Weed
Animal Crossing: New Horizon (2020) Switch
This lovely game helped me pass a lot of time during quarantine. It’s a great living SIM that evolves the original Gamecube game to new heights. I’ve played hours with my friends using the games online mechanic. It’s also a nice game if you want to chill and unwind. The player gets to make their own little island have a variety of colorful characters as their neighbors. Nintendo’s seasonal updates help the game stay relevant even months after its release. Players can craft, fish, catch insects, while also adapting their island to fit their own individual style. This is an awesome game for players of all ages.
-Ryan Weed