A Glance Back At 2017's Games

I know what you're wondering. Why didn't I do the usual game of the year list? I just didn't feel bothered to do it to be honest. It's not that I don't think there were any good games, but more so that I needed a breather before getting back down to business in 2018. I also didn't want to basically sound like a parrot listing off the favorites everyone else already covered. Everybody, for the most part, seemed to enjoy what I enjoyed. While the reviewed favorites were common across most outlets I did find my leisure time preferences to be a little different than others'. To that extent I do have some things I'd like to mention before moving on into 2018's business. I'd like to take a moment to reflect on my personally favorite gaming experiences of 2017, and type about some studios that really impressed me with their offerings.

Cursed Castilla (Maldita Castilla EX) (PS4)

I don't know how to say this without echoing every other review of 'Maldita Castilla', but it is definitely inspired by Capcom's "Ghouls & Ghosts/Ghosts & Goblins" games. It looks, and plays very much like those arcade-like retro gaming experiences. You have the basic platforming, the scoring setup, the simple back story, the map screen traversing, and even the weapon and item system used in those types of games. Everything from the onscreen displays to the 32bit pixel construction screams inspiration from said sources. Even the playable protagonist comes off as being inspired by Capcom's character, Arthur. While the game definitely has it's similarities it also has it's differences though. In the way of story, for example, this game takes place after the events surrounding the fall of a princess's love interest, and the unlocking of the demon realm through her tears which were turned into a magical key for the demon's loosing. Ultimately as one of the four named knights of the kingdom of Castilla you are ordered by the King to go out, and slay the demons that are bringing ruin to it's people. Thus freeing the kingdom from it's curse. Through short lived stages divided by multiple areas you must effectively fight off the demonic creatures while looting treasure chests, finding key items, and advancing to the final battle.