All a game reviewer can do is reveal their honest feelings about the game and give a rating at the end. As readers, we can politely agree or disagree with their views, tell them they're wrong, and claim that we're paid to give them a certain score.
Many people choose the latter option. But even if we don't go that far, it's fair to say that everyone has games they like far more than critics. For example, there's a collection of games that weren't received well by critics but were actually good.
Gotham Knights
As a third-person Batman game, Gotham Knights was naturally compared to the Batman Arkham games when it was released. This is partly why it has poor review scores. That said, this is a fun open world game that puts a nice spin on the Batman universe. First of all, Batman doesn't exist because he's killed from the beginning. This means that Nightwing, Red Hood, Batgirl, and Robin will have to become Gotham's primary defenders. Along the way, we see them and other classic Batman characters grapple with the loss of their protagonist.
There are well-written scenes featuring the Bat Family and an interesting main plot centering around the mysterious Court of Owls. Gameplay allows you to play as each of the main heroes. The good thing is that it's all distinct and fun to control. The missions can get a bit repetitive, but overall it's a solid game.
sonic frontier
Sonic Frontiers is certainly not the worst-reviewed Sonic game of all time, but its average critic rating on review sites isn't great. This despite being a fun and unique take on the Sonic franchise. The main thing that makes this game unique is that it is set in an open world where the blue hedgehog can run around freely.
If you're used to classic Sonic, racing through this 3D open world will feel a little strange at first, but Frontiers allows you to grow on it. Once that happens, it's easy to get hooked on this new type of Sonic game. The core learning is satisfying and the soundtrack is a treat to the ears.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin's Creed Unity received understandably poor reviews upon its release in 2014. The game was a huge technological mess upon release. But now many of those issues have been resolved, and this game is a compelling Assassin's Creed adventure that deserves a second chance.
The title's setting is a beautiful recreation of Paris in the late 1700s. You wander around as a young man named Arno, who shares an interesting relationship with his lifelong friend, Ellis. The two are on different sides of the conflict between the Assassins and the Templars. This makes for a compelling story. The creative side quests and parkour gameplay are just as good.
Army Of Two: Day 40
There were three Army of Two games, but none of them truly wowed critics. But the first two items deserve a little more respect. The second is '40 Days', which depicts a pair of private soldiers named Salem and Rios trying to prevent a terrorist attack in Shanghai. Although the story doesn't captivate you, the cooperative third-person gameplay is a lot of fun.
The shooting mechanics are satisfying, and the game has a lot of cool co-op action. For example, pretending to surrender while your teammates prepare for a sneak attack. Additionally, the weapon customization system is very deep and better than what you'll find in most other shooters.
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot
Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is an open world RPG that retells the story of Dragon Ball Z. Critics praised the visuals and presentation, but their overall opinion of the game was disappointing. This is despite being a Dragon Ball game that truly captures the spirit of the source material.
Not only does it look like you're playing through the anime, it also has the fast-paced, impactful combat you've come to expect from DBZ. Plus, the open world includes all the classic locations and characters from the iconic series, making it great for fans to explore. Got better value from reviewers.
Mad Max
Video games based on movie franchises don't have the best track record. Looking at the critic reviews, you'd think Mad Max would be in the same group as uninspired movie games. But it's much better than that. It is an action-adventure open world game set in the Mad Max universe. So there are a lot of deserts and not a lot of resources.
Fortunately, you don't have to roam the desert because you have your precious car to help you get around. It's a pleasure to use, whether you're driving or fighting with other vehicles. But there's also a great hand-to-hand combat system, so you don't need four wheels to fight. So whether you're in a car or on the ground, fighting is fun and so is exploration.
resonance of fate
Resonance of Fate is a unique RPG that has received mediocre reviews. This is because the story and direction are not perfect. Combat is what makes up for that. The game features a unique turn-based combat system that moves more quickly than you would typically expect from turn-based action. Characters run around, leap stylishly into the air, and gun down their opponents. It all depends on the actions you choose.
There's a lot of strategy involved as characters don't become technically more powerful. Instead, its effectiveness depends on how you upgrade your weapon. Sometimes you have to use your brains instead of your brawn in a fight.
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrate
SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom – Rehydrated has the review scores you'd expect for a game based on the Nickelodeon TV series. But this game actually deserved better. Ultimately, this game is a faithful remake of a solid 3D platformer set in the SpongeBob universe. You play as the titular characters Patrick and Sandy as they defeat robots, run around, and collect objects.
It's not the most sophisticated game you'll ever play. That said, it nails the writing and humor of the TV show and feels very realistic. This is what a SpongeBob game should be.
Mafia: Old Country
Hangar 13 tried something a little different with Mafia: The Old Country. Instead of being set in a city like the previous game, this title is set in and around a fictional small town in Sicily in the early 1900s. You play as a young man who escapes from a mine and quickly becomes embroiled in mafia business.
Reviews for the game were middling. Mainly because the core gunplay and driving mechanics weren't particularly great. But it's not bad, and the game's excellent storytelling and voice acting more than makes up for it.
deadpool
Before Ryan Reynolds' iconic performance as Deadpool, Nolan North had an incredible performance as the merc with a mouth in the 2013 Deadpool game. The title was not loved by critics upon release. This was mainly due to the game's lack of variety and unique combat.
But despite its shortcomings, it still deserves a lot of love because the writing and humor are fantastic. The game showcases Deadpool's signature brand of comedy, with frequent wall-breaking and suggestive gags. Some of the action set pieces are also fun. If the game's combat had been a little more satisfying, it could have been a huge hit.
