stories by Thomas Ella

Smoke and mirrors: How BioShock Infinite tricks you into liking Elizabeth

Irrational Games made a great character out of Elizabeth, but her design has a few critical flaws.

How Jetpack Joyride uses game psychology to keep you hooked

Jetpack Joyride applies almost a decade's worth of game psychology to create an addicting experience.

The final Rayman Origins levels are too heartbreakingly hard

Rayman Origins is so full of joy and whimsy that it's tough not to fall for its charm, but the last stretch of levels is way too hard.

What It’s Like To Buy A Game On PlayStation Network

So I bought a Vita two weeks ago, and I love the thing to death. I’ve been having a blast with Rayman OriginsFrobisher Says!, and WipEout 2048 among other games, but really, I bought it for Lumines: 

The Many (Minor) Missteps of Far Cry 3

Guys, I’m hooked on Far Cry 3. Seriously, somebody pull me away from this thing. I’ve beaten the story, cleared out all the outposts, and collected all the relics, letters, and memory cards. And now I’m considering starting it …

I can’t even tell what Dead Space 3′s monsters are anymore

I don't even know what I'm looking at anymore. How can I possibly be scared or grossed out if I can't even tell what it is?

DmC: Devil May Cry’s protagonist Dante is more likable than ever

If you haven't played the new DmC: Devil May Cry demo yet, you should get on that. I just finished playing it, and I've got to say, it is one hot slice of pie. The new version of protagonist Dante …