Expertise
Game Reviews, Platformers, Action/Adventure
- Sam's favorite game is Metal Gear Solid. Honorable mentions include Rocket League, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3, and GTA Online.
- Even before the pandemic, Sam was a fan of the social element that video games provide — whether that be local LAN parties with cords strewn through the house, or building a Garry's Mod server specifically to play remotely with his nephews.
- Video games have played a major role in Sam's life since childhood. So much so, that he is currently writing a book about the video games that he grew up with and how the titles he played impacted his life along the way.
Experience
Sam is a seasoned writer and video game enthusiast with a passion for exploring the world of gaming. He has developed a keen eye for what makes a great game and loves to share his insights with others. Sam has written for a number of prominent gaming publications and websites, including TheGamer and GamingPizza, and has covered everything from the latest major releases to the farthest corners of the indie scene. Since beginning his career in the gaming industry over five years ago, Sam has played a pivotal role in the strategy and development of multiple websites — including TheGamer — setting the foundation for the brands that are now widely recognized throughout the industry. As SVG's game reviews lead, Sam prides himself on covering lesser-known indie titles that often go unnoticed, giving these games the recognition they deserve. He has also developed a niche for platformer games in particular, which have become one of his specialties. With a deep love and appreciation for all things gaming, Sam brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to SVG, and is always excited to share his passion with readers.
Education
Sam graduated from Pacific University with a B.A. in Political Science. He is interested in exploring the many ways in which gaming can captivate and delight its players, and he uses his academic background to convey those thoughtful insights.
SVG is comprised of a team of experienced writers, editors, and gaming fans of all kinds, all united in a true passion for the video game industry. We endeavor to bring our readers expert coverage of the latest news and trends in the worlds of video games and streamer content, as well as entertaining and informative reviews and features concerning new release titles and retro favorites.
Our editors, advisors, and fact-checkers are constantly updating and reviewing articles to ensure they're current, comprehensive, and helpful. Click here for more information on our editorial process.
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
PAX West 2023 has come and gone, and there was plenty of fun to be had with demos of Final Fantasy 7: Ever Crisis, Prince of Persia, Tekken 8, and more.
By Sam Watanuki
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"ABRISS" successfully offers physics-based destruction, fusing brutalist architectural inspirations with the visceral satisfaction of blowing everything up.
By Sam Watanuki
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With its satisfying gunplay, ever-increasing challenges, and vibrant community, 'Warstride Challenges' earns its spot within the realm of speedrun classics.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle" wears its influences on its sleeve, but never quite rises to meet them.
By Sam Watanuki
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FromSoftware reaches new heights as 'Armored Core' returns with a challenging (and rewarding) sci-fi action experience.
By Sam Watanuki
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
The Mavix M7 Gaming Chair ticks all the boxes when it comes to design, functionality, comfort, and value for its high-end price tag.
By Sam Watanuki
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Drawing inspiration from "Jet Set Radio," "Bomb Rush Cyberfunk" not only revives old-school 90s metropolis vibes but masterfully brings them to the modern era.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Madden 24" is an enjoyable, polished ride that will please newcomers and veterans alike, but it doesn't necessarily deliver a transformative experience.
By Sam Watanuki
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"The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" isn't a perfect title, but it still effectively presents a game of cat-and-mouse that can be as terrifying as it is exhilarating.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Marble It Up! Ultra's" single-player campaign and multiplayer modes provide plenty reason to get friends and family together for some marble-based fun.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Atlas Fallen" reaches for the stars and manages to stand on its own in a crowded genre with its ambitious story scenes and gripping combat.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Gran Turismo" successfully revs up emotions, commits to its narrative, and ultimately crosses the finish line as a standout video game adaptation.
By Sam Watanuki
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"ANVIL" offers a mix of shooter mechanics, strategic gameplay, and cooperative multiplayer. However, the game still needs some fine-tuning here and there.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Disney Illusion Island" serves up a whimsical and family-friendly adventure packed with charm, excitement, and a surprising amount of nostalgia.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara" proudly carries the torch lit by its predecessors, while offering a fresh, simplistic spin on the platforming formula.
By Sam Watanuki
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"REMEDIUM: Sentinels" is a delightful and addictive autoshooter, striking the perfect balance between simplicity and strategy.
By Sam Watanuki
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When it comes to inclusive and easy-to-pick-up VR party games, "Battle Bows" delivers a silly and engaging experience that is a must-play for casual VR players.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Atelier Marie Remake: The Alchemist of Salburg" is a success that stays true to the 1997 classic and stands on its own in the modern gaming landscape.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Touhou: New World" successfully weaves together elements of old-school bullet hell and RPG mechanics, creating a unique and fun Touhou Project experience.
By Sam Watanuki
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Final Fantasy 16 successfully offers an engaging story and awe-inspiring encounters, firmly places it as a standout title in the Final Fantasy series.
By Sam Watanuki
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With its innovative hand-tracking system, constant feeling of dread, and absence of VR sickness, "Broken Spectre" redefines the VR horror genre.
By Sam Watanuki
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
Mortal Kombat 1 is shaping up to be a true homage to its roots, yet modern enough to capture the hearts of a new generation of players.
By Sam Watanuki
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"Street Fighter 6" offers an engaging experience for players of all skill levels with Capcom once again setting the standard for the fighting game genre.
By Sam Watanuki
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
Patricia Summersett chatted with SVG about her role as Princess Zelda in "Tears of the Kingdom" and gave insights into her approach to the iconic character.
By Sam Watanuki
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
Charles Martinet's presence in the movie is a perfect casting decision showing that Mario and the longevity of this franchise are in good hands.
By Sam Watanuki
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"The Super Mario Bros. Movie" doesn't have to do much at all to immediately grab your attention.
By Sam Watanuki
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Exclusives
By Sam Watanuki
Hollywood has a good recent track record at this point. Let's give video game film adaptations a chance before blindly dismissing them before seeing them.
By Sam Watanuki
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