Much of the allure of the city simulation genre stems from the mastery of an array of municipal variables.  While you might sink a township into the ground across the first few playthroughs, gradually you’ll ...

In the United States, terms like ‘liberty’ and ‘freedom’ are quintessential expressions, underscoring an emphasis on individualism. But in Japan, life has traditionally skewed toward collectivism. As such, the word, ‘ganbaru’ is ubiquitous in conversation. ...

During the 1980s and 90s, if you stepped into an arcade, there was a very good chance of finding a Namco machine among the assortment of cabinets. While the Minato, Tokyo-based firm has been around ...

Even the most devoted strategy-role-playing game devotee will admit that there’s not a whole lot of variation across the genre. Instead, distinction is most often made in the subtle divergences from formula, whether it’s the ...

When Americans travel to Japan, they often remark on how safe the country feels. Unlike many parts of the U.S., you’re able to walk freely without the fear of assault or mugging – at any ...

With a sales boost spurred by last week’s release of Splatoon 2, the Nintendo Switch continues to gain momentum. This week the hybrid gains more new game releases than another other console or portable. But ...

Decades of shoot-‘em-up games have imparted a crucial message to players: the enemy projectile should be avoided at all costs. But that enduring adage get challenged in Graze Counter, Hyogo-based Henteko Doujin’s absorbing sophomore PC ...

For years, musou games were mocked by critics and consumers alike. Both groups viewed franchises like Dynasty Warriors and Samurai Warriors as repetitive, tedious treks, where players button-mashed their way to victory. At certainly at one time, that complaint had merit, ...

While a direct-to-video film may lack the budget, quality, and nuance of a theatrical release, merit is often found in the simplicity of the work. Productions produced for the home market typically aren’t recognized for ...

1989’s SimCity was an irrefutable work of genius. Although a game built around the idea of urban development might have sounded tedious in description, designating industrial, commercial, and residential areas was as approachable as it ...