Butcher

This side-scrolling action title is great for its retro visuals, but its overt violence toward people limits its widespread appeal. Butcher is fun and tough, with the kitschy graphics and over-the-top violence drawing gamers looking for unadulterated, visceral, fast action. It's not for everyone; the focus on mindless violence and constant dismemberment not only keeps this squarely for adults, it becomes a bit overwhelming at times. But the frenetic combat, platforming elements, and diverse levels and enemies make this a memorable arcade shooter. Players are encouraged to explore these two-dimensional levels to best tackle your task at hand (which is tied to staying alive as long as you can and killing every human you come across). Along the way, you may have to spend time finding elevators, accessing locked rooms, getting stat upgrades, and more. Part of the fun is trying to find your way to the end of the level, and you can only do that by roaming above, below, and to the left and right of your 2D levels.

You must also learn about the shortcomings of your weapons to be successful. Chain saws are fun, but you need to be in close proximity to the enemy, which puts you at more risk of suffering damage than ranged attacks. Shooting dudes on jet packs blows them out of the air, but their fiery parts can damage you if they touch you while exploding. Players also have to gauge hiding behind objects to avoid enemy fire, and so on. For mature players who like tough games and frenzied action, and perhaps those with a nostalgic leaning toward 2D shooters of yesterday, Butcher could be a good game for them, if they can also tolerate the mindless destruction.