Trace found himself surprised by Sand Land in a quiet, unexpected way. What begins as a simple journey for water slowly grows into something more personal the longer he sits with it. There’s a calmness in exploring its empty world, broken up by small character moments that linger. It never tries to overwhelm. It just asks for time, and Trace was more than willing to give it.
In this Backlog Worthy review, Trace revisits Final Fantasy XIII, the RPG that first sparked his love for the series. The Crystarium system and paradigm based combat still shine, though the game’s linear world stands out more today. Despite its flaws, the characters and atmosphere keep it a deeply personal favorite.
Trace visits Midgar in Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, experiencing the story, characters, and combat in a new way. While the game has a few frustrations, the journey through Midgar proves memorable and worth the return
In this Backlog Worthy review, Trace revisits Pokémon X and Y years after first playing them as a kid. Mega Evolution and online features like Wonder Trade still stand out, while the story feels weaker than remembered. Even so, the Kalos adventure remains a nostalgic reminder of why the Pokémon series captured his imagination.
In this Backlog Worthy review, Trace revisits Dora the Explorer: The Search for Pirate Pig's Treasure, a childhood game that once felt impossible to beat. Returning as an adult reveals a simple platformer built for very young players, but it highlights how early gaming experiences can shape a lifelong appreciation for the medium.
Trace stumbled upon 9 Years of Shadows while exploring Steam’s Discovery Queue. Drawn in by its stunning pixel art and immersive music, Trace found a game that charmed visually but offered uneven combat and a story carried by just two characters. Still, it proved to be a journey worth experiencing.
In this Backlog Worthy review, Trace explores Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake and how it brings a legendary RPG to modern players. The HD-2D visuals elevate the classic adventure while the open party system and sense of exploration still feel timeless. Even with some aging mechanics, its charm shows why Dragon Quest III remains so influential.
Play Every Pixel 