Splatoon

5 out of 7 - solid with a big recommendation

Nintendo Life calls it the freshest shooter in years. Bold urban visual style, blisteringly fast loading times, excellent multiplayer maps, enjoyable offline modes as backup. Shows Nintendo can jump into the 21st century of online games. Final score held for launch verification.

Creative campaign with challenging boss fights and polished multiplayer features including lobbies and lockers delivers a satisfying single-player experience.

A fast-paced, addictive continuation with superb design and weapon variety, though it follows the predecessor formula too closely and Splat Fests have matchmaking issues.

ZP: core fun but anemic trappings.