Super Mario Maker (Wii U)

Date Purchased:  September 11, 2015
Date Completed: November 20, 2015
Price: $69.99 ( Nintendo eShop)

Does one ever “finish” Super Mario Maker?  I think not.  I have however played enough of this game to feel I can take it off the “pile of shame”.  Super Mario Maker is a great game, perhaps, the best game.  There is so much to see, do, create, it really is without limits.  I am extremely nostalgic with regards to all things Mario, and while that may influence my opinion on the game, I really feel there’s nothing here to complain about.  Whenever I feel “creators block” I jump on reddit and check some of the top submitted levels and feel inspired again.  I love this game.  A lot.  A candidate for the coveted “Pile of Shame Game of the Year”.   Highest Recommendation.

Middle Earth: Shadow of Mordor (PS4)

Date Purchased: (Borrowed October 30, 2015)
Date Completed: November 9, 2015
Price: (Free – Borrowed)

Shadow of Mordor, a game never on the pile, but borrowed from my nephew and blogging friend Riley.  From what I’ve heard this is a lot like Assassins Creed, but, I’ve never played one of those, so I don’t have a point of reference.  I have played a number of open world games though, and this one is one of the better ones I’ve played.  I’m not “into” the “Lord of the Rings” by any stretch, but didn’t feel it was necessary to enjoy the game.  Great combat, enjoyable stealth, and a fun/addictive upgrade system kept me coming back.  My only criticism would be that the location variety is somewhat lacking, the maps are big, but everywhere looks pretty much the same.  Perhaps they should have added some indoor sections to mix things up?  Regardless, fun game, recommend.