Thick Thighs Save Lives
NeoGAF's Physical Games Advocate Extraordinaire
Shadow of the Ninja: Reborn is a remastered release of a legendary classic. This action-adventure gem from Tengo Project lets players wield a striking katana and an expanded arsenal of weaponry, all while showcasing the acrobatic finesse of a true ninja. With six intricately designed stages filled with devious traps and challenging platform puzzles, players will need to harness their inner warrior to navigate this concrete jungle. Whether you’re a solo ninja or teaming up in the acclaimed two-player co-op mode as Hayate and Kaede, the game promises a thrilling ride.
One of the standout features is the game’s soundtrack, featuring contributions from iconic composer Iku Mizutani. Further, the visuals have also undergone a significant upgrade, with high-quality sprites bringing the deadly foes and stages to life. Players can customize their loadouts using hard-earned points in the tool shop, adding a layer of strategy to the fast-paced action.
Metal Slug Tactics brings the explosive charm and nostalgic fun of the cult Metal Slug series into the tactical RPG scene. This game blends classic arcade action with roguelite tactical gameplay, allowing players to lead their squad through strategic battles. The tactical RPG mechanics are enhanced by the ability to accumulate experience after each battle, unlocking new weapons and perks to upgrade your team’s firepower. With iconic characters from the METAL SLUG universe, players can create the perfect team to thwart General Morden’s devious plans.
The game promises a high replayability factor with its die-and-retry roguelite progression. I know, I know, the genre gets a bad rap, but there are still plenty of players who flock to quality roguelite titles, which is why we still see them. Metal Slug Tactics features 110 hand-crafted maps and 20 different mission types with optional challenges to perfect their strategies and adapt to their enemies. The pixel art graphics pay homage to the series’ roots, while the soundtrack by Tee Lopes keeps the adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer, the game’s blend of action and strategy promises countless hours of fun and challenging gameplay.
On Your Tail is a delightful blend of relaxation and investigation set in the charming seaside village of Borgo Marina. Players follow the adventures of Diana, an intrepid sleuth on a quest for the perfect summer vacation. As you explore the picturesque town, you’ll engage in a mix of investigation, interrogation, and deduction to unravel the local mysteries. The game offers a unique card-game-inspired gameplay mechanic, where players must use clues and leads to solve puzzles and uncover secrets. We were able to play this game on Nintendo Switch not too long ago, and it really made an impact on us with its narrative storyline and detective gameplay elements.
Further, On Your Tail features life-sim elements where players can build relationships with the villagers, engage in recreational activities like fishing and cooking, and enjoy the leisurely pace of life in Borgo Marina. The beautifully crafted 3D environment, combined with a heartwarming narrative, makes this game a refreshing escape from the everyday hustle. It’s a perfect blend of mystery and relaxation, promising an unforgettable getaway.
Mirage Feathers takes players back to when Sega kids had a genre to brag about. This pseudo-3D rail shooter has players control Notari, a cybernetic air-superiority fighter, as she battles wave after wave of enemy aircraft. The game’s advanced fire control system locks onto targets automatically, allowing for intense, fast-paced combat. As players progress, they can unlock additional weapon options, each offering a range of playstyles and combat strategies.
The game features both Story Mode and Endless Mode, providing a mix of scripted levels and infinite waves of challenging enemies. Story Mode explores characters and their backgrounds through text-based dialogues and character art, while Endless Mode focuses on relentless combat and survival. We’re fully on board to play this Space Harrier homage, so we’re hoping that highlighting it here will get you to join us.
Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter continues the epic saga of the Rats of the South, now facing a new threat from the North. Players control Arlo, the young heir to the Warden of the Wastes, as he journeys through the snow-ravaged lands to defeat the Dark Wings. The game features fully narrated storytelling by RPG-legend Doug Cockle and a vast, wintry kingdom to explore.
During gameplay, players must hunt down giant beasts, master brutal combat, and customize their arsenal of weapons to survive the perilous North. The game also includes settlement management, allowing players to upgrade their base and unlock new items and abilities. We’re glad to see Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter continue this IP legacy because the first entry was honestly a surprisingly good game.
As with past threads here on GAF, you're encouraged to post and discuss the demos you've played and enjoyed during this new edition of Steam Next Fest.
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