TapTap’s favorite games of April 2023

Afterimage

9.5

0 Want

Lore-RichMetroidvaniaSide ScrollerDifficult

If you’ve got any appreciation for the Metroidvania style of game at all, then you owe it to yourself to play Afterimage. With tight controls, compelling progression and exploration, and especially a stunning hand-drawn art style, Afterimage pays homage to the classics while also undeniably forging its own strong identity via a fascinating and diverse fantasy world. It’s really good.

Age of Wonders 4

9.7

0 Want

Turn-Based TacticsTactical4XHex Grid

Age of Wonders 4 is an early contender for this year’s best strategy game. There’s plenty of depth to the combat and exploration in this fantasy 4X game, but the elegance and beauty of its presentation prevent it from ever being overwhelming, even for newcomers.

Cassette Beasts

8.6

0 Want

RPG

Cassette Beasts is clearly inspired by the Pokémon franchise, but it switches up the classic formula, offering something that feels fresh and new. From its lively ’80s aesthetic to its Zelda-like exploration mechanics, it’s one of the most exciting and original monster collecting games I’ve played.

Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly

8.8

0 Want

Pixel GraphicsInteractive FictionVisual NovelCasual

Coffee Talk Episode 2 is a sweet, slow-paced game that never feels stressful. It has plenty of coffee brewing, but the game’s main focus is on heart-to-heart conversations. And you don’t have to play the original to enjoy the sequel.

Farlight 84 Global

8.2

0 Want

ActionCasualTactical ShooterMultiplayer

There’s really not a lot more you have to do to sell me on a multiplayer game than tell me there are spider-tanks involved. Farlight 84 does have spider-tanks, and they’re a lot of fun to scuttle around in. Fortunately, it doesn’t stop there: This new battle royale game has slick production values, quirky characters, a bright and inviting art style, and solid gunplay.

Honkai: Star Rail Global

9.1

0 Want

Action RPGActionTurn-basedRPG

Honkai: Star Rail is better than developer MiHoYo’s Honkai Impact 3rd and comes very close to the charm of the much-loved Genshin Impact. Star Rail’s immersive storyline, beautiful graphics, and deep turn-based combat have kept me thoroughly entertained.

Peglin - A Pachinko Roguelike

7.8

0 Want

RoguelikeRPGPinballPixel

Peglin is a near-perfect blend of pinball and old-school roguelikes. The concept is a simple one, but it’s incredibly addictive. While the full version of Peglin is $8.99, you can play through the first area for free. By the time I'd cleared the forest, I was hooked, so I was more than happy to shell out for the full version.

Pocket City 2

8.8

0 Want

StrategyCraftingSimulationCity Builder

The basic gameplay loop of Pocket City 2 is pretty standard for a city builder, but there are unique mechanics that take things in an exciting new direction. If you’re looking for a mobile alternative to your favorite PC city builders, you can’t go wrong with Pocket City 2.

Ravenswatch

7.8

0 Want

This is a game that takes some of the great ideas of Hades, Diablo II, and MOBAs, adds some new twists of its own, and turns them into a challenging but incredibly compelling package that’s playable either solo or in co-op. Ravenswatch has all the makings of an indie hit.

Wildfrost

9.5

0 Want

Turn-Based TacticsCard BattlerDifficultTurn-Based Strategy

Wildfrost is a fantastic deck-builder, but it’s also an exceptional tactics game. Yes, it can be punishing at times, but the challenge level is exactly what I expect from the roguelike genre.