The team at Quantic proves that if games are made correctly, players will have an experience they will feel for many years to come. For this reason alone, I love this industry and those who constantly want to bring the best gaming experiences available, and Beyond: Two Souls is a perfect example of this.

A plethora of content plagued by a buggy release that can be ridiculously frustrating.

Simply put, NBA 2K14 is better than NBA 2K13, and worth buying even if you picked up last year’s release.

If you are looking for a game that’s a non-stop thrill ride, you should look somewhere else. But if you want to connect with a game in a way that you aren’t used to, want to feel something, or just love buckets of precipitation–rain is the game for you. At $15, there isn’t really anything else like it.

Millennium Girl serves as an excellent example of how to refresh an old game and introduce it to a new audience. It keeps the basics that give the Etrian Odyssey series its identity, adds in the many improvements that have appeared in that series over its four entries, and provides new content, such as the redone labyrinth and Story Mode, to make the game feel fresh and new even to gamers who played the original.

The stages themselves aren't large or interactive enough to allow your handiwork to shine. It's a cute interpretation with the most DC lore I've seen in a game, but the gameplay is just lacking in too many respects to keep you interested.

I’m not sure if it’s the best game in the series, but it kept me playing for hours on end, and that’s enough for me. The visual and audio competence supported by the rock-solid gameplay is a winning combination, and just goes to show how much EA has perfected the major-league game formula.

PES 2014 may not be the game that has the biggest advertisers, or the official licensing of the sport, but there is something very special and riveting about it. When other franchises are changing things just to change them, PES is holding onto tradition and, as any “Hooligan” will tell you, tradition matters most.

While playing, I marveled at things I normally don't pay attention to in games, such as the way light and shadows played off of Link and his enemies in battles, or the way the wind made little things, such as flags or windmills, come to life.

These characters are voice-acted so annoyingly well that you almost wish the character would never speak again, just like some of the main characters. The music and talk shows are also great to listen to as you are traveling around. All in all, the sound department is not lacking in GTA V.

Just like in the first go around, there’s a lot to do in this game.

NHL 14 is a very polished game that takes full advantage of its subject to create an intense, thrilling sports title. Its brutal, energetic nature offers a unique experience that most gaming versions of sports lack, and it’s definitely my favorite sports game of the year.

The campaign is meaty, plus there are co-op missions, score challenges, and plenty of collectables.

A completely fresh game waits beneath the veneer of unoriginality. Players of all ages will enjoy Puppeteer.

One Piece: Pirate Warriors 2 was created with an unusual attention to gameplay quality for a licensed game. It may not be a masterpiece, but it's simple fun that is especially good for short play sessions with a friend.

Although the absurd nature of the game might be a hurdle to some, Ubisoft crafted it with enough skill and confidence to tie together all the disparate strands into a cohesive, enjoyable whole. A lot of care went into making Rayman Legends, and the refreshing result of that care is a platformer that can proudly stand beside the genre’s greats.

Flaws aside, Atelier Meruru Plus: The Apprentice of Arland is a good, solid JRPG that works phenomenally in the portable format. It’s easy to pick up and put down, even though you’ll eventually spend hours of your life on it. Its mission-based format is perfect for long trips on a plane or short trips on the bus. It has a better sense of pacing, more content, and free DLC.

If you have already grown bored of the game, then Ultimate isn’t going to do much to reinvigorate your passion. If you haven’t, however, then Dead or Alive 5: Ultimate is a purchase that you pretty much have to make.

So, PC gamers, burn effigies if you must, but I enjoyed Diablo III way more on console than I did on PC. There, I said it. This is simply because this version is more focused on the fun of the franchise instead of trying to turn a beloved dungeon-crawler into an MMO.

The handheld FPS formula has finally been cracked, and not a moment too soon.

You can collect all the Pokémon ever created and battle with them; it's just nowhere near as fun as it could have been.

There’s a ton to learn here, but it can be slow at times, and the graphical glitches are disruptive.

The truly bewildering conundrum of Lost Planet 3 is that it could have easily been so much more. Aside from the borrowed gameplay mechanics, the story is solid and well acted, Visuals are above average, sound is mostly well done, and the switch between first-person mech and third-person keeps gameplay fairly fresh.

Are you looking for fresh, new, and exciting multiplayer maps? If so, you won’t find them here. But are you looking for the most complete and sprawling Zombies experience ever to come out of Treyarch? If you answered yes, stop what you’re doing and get it. Now.

Out of the Shadows is no Game of the Year nominee, but it's a lot of fun to smack your way through the five-hour campaign and play the Arcade mode with friends. And for those of us old enough to remember the Turtles' original incarnation, it's a trip down memory lane, too.

The Project Diva series has proven itself as one of the most challenging and robust rhythm games available. Project Diva F for the PS3 is a force to be reckoned with thanks to its 38 included tracks and unbelievably intricate song editor.

This is everything players wanted the original game to be--it might avoid pushing the boundaries, but it provides hours upon hours of well-designed quest sequences, breathtaking graphics, and a gripping plot. At last, we have a modern MMO worthy of the Final Fantasy name.

Fans of Disney as well as creative minds will find endless hours of fun and yearn for every extra character, Play Set, and Power Disk that can be purchased. The rest of the crowd will likely pass on Disney Infinity.

A brilliant addition to the Madden franchise. With its user generated-content system, its multiple single-player modes, and its new running mechanics, the replay value is honestly off the charts.

It has captured everything we love about fighting games in a mere two buttons. Simply put, it’s genius. This is no joke.

Being an XCOM fan, I was sincerely hopeful that they didn’t destroy the name of this franchise with a generic third-person shooter, which could have easily been the case. But they didn’t. They did so much more. They expertly crafted the beloved gameplay elements of the XCOM universe into an intuitive third-person experience, while delivering an interesting story, which is no easy task.

The story is engaging, the characters have a sense of depth to them I enjoy, and the stealth action rivals, if not surpasses, the most recent Metal Gear entry. All in all, this is a game designed for players who bide their time before sneaking behind an enemy and sending them on to the great beyond.

Sure, a few things are different and a bit more involved and embellished than before, but it's lovely overall. If someone already has more than a passing interest in DuckTales, then DuckTales Remastered will satisfy their needs.

There's no getting around the fact that Charlie Murder is a blast to play, alone or with friends, and that it's well worth your $10 if you love beating the crap out of zombies and laughing at bloody, disturbing, slapstick antics.

If you have a friends list full of like-minded and degenerate buddies, you really can’t beat the co-op experience for the price. But, by yourself, if you think you are going to be able to accomplish anything within this game beyond the simplest of heists, you’ve got another thing coming.

Seriously, Saints Row is filling a gap in the industry. Too many games on the market are melodramatic doom and gloom. It is refreshing to know that games such as Saints Row IV are built on the idea that people should have some f@$^ing fun while playing a game.

All three missions contain meaty choices and interesting people to meet.

Dream Team is fairly lengthy and there are always new things to see and do, keeping gameplay fresh.

The simple fact is that Brothers is an amazing experience, filled with clever little challenges, an eerily quiet ambiance, and emotionally deep stories. Not many games have all of that at once, and you'd be doing yourself a disservice by skipping this one.

It’s no Ni No Kuni, but it’s certainly one of the better JRPG titles to come out this console generation.

Although its design weaknesses keep it from becoming an instant classic, the game as it is provides a great starting platform for future player-made content and official expansions.

A major improvement over its predecessors--of which I wasn't the biggest fan. If it could win over a skeptic like me, I imagine that people who loved the first two games will be thrilled by the way this game keeps the series' heart intact but improves on the level design and gameplay.

This game is imminently replayable and pushes the boundaries of what is still possible in the 2D realm. This game could have easily been a disaster, counting on art style and bra size to sell copies. But Vanillaware pretty much nailed it in all categories.

Dota 2 isn’t for the faint of heart. It isn’t for everyone. But if you play MOBAs, then it is for you. This is the game in the genre you need to play. If you don’t believe me, then consider this: There’s a reason why the community has crowd-funded a total of $900,000-plus to the prize pool for The International 3.

Shin Megami Tensei IV is the kind of game that has some people doing their happy dance and others running for the hills. If you're looking for hard-won victories, an impressive collection of demons, and some genuine Crazy Japanese Stuff (I say that with all affection) to be had from the story, then congratulations. This game is for you, and like me, you'll get a kick out of it. If you're more interested in heartwarming stories, relatable characters, or relaxation from your RPGs, I recommend checking out the Persona 3 and 4 instead.

Maybe Imageepoch just wanted to experiment. I can’t fault them for that, and they certainly had guts in putting this game together. NIS America, too, for bringing it overseas. I’m only sorry that the concept and effort didn’t come together into a cohesive whole.

Dynasty Warriors 8 is a simple, solid title that does the Dynasty Warriors franchise proud. It’s not really reinventing the wheel, nor is it trying to cater to fans outside of its small demographic. It just wants to be the best button-mashy, Chinese-soldier murder simulator it can be, and in that, it succeeds. If you are a fan of the Dynasty Warriors franchise, definitely consider picking Dynasty Warriors 8 up.

Essentially, if you love Civilization V, Brave New World will open up a world of possibilities. And if you haven't yet picked up Civilization V, Brave New World is the best way to play.

The game’s challenge is non-existent, the longevity is severely lacking, the scoring system is a mess, and going through each track to get high ratings is a chore.

In short, I didn’t expect to enjoy NCAA Football 14 nearly as much as I did. Sure, it has flaws, but it is easily one of the most enjoyable sports games on the market. You may not see too much of a change from last year’s title if you’re a faithful, yearly customer, but if you have been away from the football scene for a while and are thinking of jumping back into it, this may be the perfect time to do it.

Should you pick up 400 Days? Yes! What are you, crazy!? This is a phenomenal new experiment in storytelling that redefines the types of stories that can be told in video games.

Unfortunately, the multiplayer maps are pretty disappointing. But the zombie mission is great.

Though simple, the game still gives you enough challenge to keep you playing.

Muramasa Rebirth is a wonderfully enhanced version of an already terrific game that melds old-school action sensibilities with more modern complexities and a storyline that manages to feel notably mature.

It's not the real thing, but at ten dollars, it's an incredible value with a great selection of modes and plenty to unlock.

I'm not saying that the game is a lost cause; it does have a few enjoyable moments, and N-Fusion did an amazing job bringing Leisure Suit Larry into the modern era. But the original title was definitely a product of its time, and that was 25 years ago.

The kind of 4X that brings my relationship with strategy games to a lofty peak. It is engaging and yet oddly meditative, almost relaxing to play rather than nerve-wracking and brain-frying.

A beyond competent, gorgeous, and well-crafted World War II strategy game. It may very well be the best WWII strategy game ever produced. It is, however, a game for those who already enjoy the genre, and particularly for those entranced by Company of Heroes’ hallmark approach to combat.

If you like having a good laugh, fart jokes, guns, explosions, boobs, chimichangas, comics, swords, and pretty much anything awesome–you should probably go out and get this game. If you don’t like these things–there isn’t really anything left to say to you.

Chronicles of Mystara is at its best with co-operative play, as you'd expect from any side-scrolling beat 'em up. It may not have aged as fine as wine, but nevertheless, it's still enjoyable.

Retribution is filled with so many flaws it’s painful. I’m a fan of Deep Silver’s work, but this is far below their caliber.

You can’t go wrong for the price, and this game is definitely worth adding to your collection, but preferably your PS3 collection.

New Super Luigi U is the kind of game the Wii U needs. It’s familiar enough to bring in long-time Nintendo fans; it’s new enough to bring in the newcomers; and it’s challenging and rewarding enough to keep people playing.

On the Rain-Slicked Precipice of Darkness 4 manages to be a trip down memory lane, a hilarious collection of Penny Arcade humor, and a worthy RPG all at once.

In an industry where big, epic, and huge are the normal, it is refreshing to see the importance of the little things. In fact, I believe this is The Last of Us’ strongest suit. You will play this game and feel the overwhelming storyline, like the characters, and, after you have let it all soak in, some of your favorite moments will be the small things; the things you didn’t have your hand held through.

If nothing else, Remember Me serves as a warning to the social-media-addicted masses. If you continue down your current path, one day you will turn into a memory addicted monstrosity–or an ass-kicking memory hunter–well, it’s a 50/50 shot I guess. Good luck with that.

Nintendo's Wii U may be foundering, but the company has been knocking it out of the park on the 3DS lately. Minis on the Move joins other greats like Pushmo to make the 3DS an amazing platform for anybody who enjoys a good puzzle game. Check it out, and prepare to get addicted to sliding tiles and frantically saving minis from a plunge into the dark abyss.

The best way to describe Marvel Heroes is, truthfully, average. Everyone should give this game a shot, just because it’s free and a fun distraction. But chances are you won’t be compelled to spend extra money on it. I wouldn’t describe these heroes as “super,” just “fun.”

It's the pinnacle of the series, inviting people of all kinds to take a load off and spend a little time diving for scallops, re-upholstering furniture, installing a new fountain near the town square, and joining up with their friends for a bug-catching contest.

A solid adventure game that genre veterans will undoubtedly eat up. Novices, however, may be put off by the game’s issues. If they are patient enough, however, they will find an enjoyable and enchanted world to explore.

Though the tracks get repetitive, the multiplayer is a grind, and you’ll be forced to race with an in-front-of or behind-your-car viewpoint, these flaws are insignificant compared to the huge payout that is GRID 2’s campaign. It’s easily one of the better racing games to come out this generation.

This is an action-RPG that offers more than just addictive loot gathering, and that's something we don't see enough of.

Sanctum 2 is an incredibly clever, incredibly fun game. Setting up your towers is intellectually challenging, and mowing down enemies is a wonderful blend of mindless excitement and strategy. It's great to have all these elements together in one game.

Insomniac has definitely proven that they can make a rock-solid, third-person shooter, but all of the testosterone that was injected into the weaponry may have neutered the overall experience.

Anyone looking for a new MMO -- and especially anyone who likes Star Trek and wouldn't mind having some space combat thrown into the mix -- ought to give this game a shot. Not only does it have a lot of features lacking elsewhere in the MMO universe, but it's free to play, too.

This game is infinitely better than Techland's previous titles in almost every way.

Is Resident Evil: Revelations better for the console than it is for the 3DS? Nah, not really. It adds a few extra features and gives it a coat of HD paint, but at its core it is still the same game. But is it worth playing on console? Absolutely.

The visuals translate perfectly onto the 3DS, as if they were meant to be there in the first place. Everything fits tightly into the smaller screen, yet despite all the action and quick timing, you never feel as if there are too many distractions.

Metro: Last Light emerges from the dark underground as an exceedingly enjoyable single-player experience and one of the best games this year. So far.

Minis on the Move joins other greats like Pushmo to make the 3DS an amazing platform for anybody who enjoys a good puzzle game. Check it out, and prepare to get addicted to sliding tiles and frantically saving minis from a plunge into the dark abyss.

The culmination of amazing sound, throwback 8-bit cutscenes, excellent graphics, spotless presentation, and enough details from the 80’s to pack a game twice this size; Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon delivers on every front near flawlessly.

It’s an original and moody action-RPG with fast-paced, energetic combat and layers upon layers of depth to explore.

If you like survival games, if you enjoy Tim Burton-esque artwork, or if you’re just looking for an unforgiving challenge of a game, pick up Don’t Starve immediately. Pretty much everything about this game is fantastic, and you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with it.

It delivers an average gameplay experience through a decent story. The game’s mediocre visuals are balanced by the strong soundscape, but neither department does enough to propel the game to warp speed. Mr. Sulu, you have failed.

Looks aren't everything, though. Black Rock Shooter gives players a clever blend of action and RPG. It's not really a shooter, and it's not turn-based. Black Rock Shooter: The Game takes elements from a variety of genres and puts them together in a unique and addictive way. The world hasn't seen a game quite like this before.

Despite being the best of the DLC packs, Redemption offers little to redeem The Tyranny of King Washington.

Very few games are stuffed with this much personality. If you like humorous video games at all (and especially if you like Borderlands and Portal), you really need to play this. It actually makes you feel like you’re sitting in a room and hanging out with some of gaming’s favorite stars, and that’s an opportunity you shouldn’t pass up unless you simply hate video games.

I just found Monaco hard to enjoy. I was either rushing to reach a checkpoint before guards killed me or I was roaming aimlessly, being booted back to the beginning of the level when I died too many times. Monaco very rarely hits that stealthy sweet spot - that sense of quietly and carefully infiltrating enemy territory, knowing that you're vastly outnumbered and you'll be killed if you screw up. Instead, it usually just tests your patience.

The aesthetics of the game create an illusion of quality. God Mode, at its core, feels as cheap as the price tag might suggest. The one-note shooting can’t sustain the game through all five maps.

Riptide is much like the zombies it portrays. It meanders about, bumping into everything, and occasionally it finds some meat to sink its teeth into. Then it slowly moves on to find the next scarce meal. Missing some parts, it shambles around, a mindless, and feral creation. Too bad.

With so many great games available on the 3DS, there's no reason for gamers to subject themselves to this under baked, disjointed, and sometimes tedious experience.

Even though Activision hasn’t really changed much of their formula, Uprising succeeds at delivering a complete package that almost any multiplayer shooter fan can enjoy.

Although playing as Daud might seem a strange choice, his complex life lends itself to an interesting narrative. This interesting narrative offers new insights into the city of Dunwall and one of the original game’s most unsympathetic characters.

Do you want a modern RTS with an absurd amount of polish and visuals that make you feel justified in purchasing that high-end gaming rig? Well, you’ll want to look elsewhere. In fact, I hear StarCraft II’s new expansion is pretty great. But if you want to relive the glory days of when the RTS was first coming into its own as a genre (with a glorious palette of pixel art), then you can’t do much better than Age of Empires II: HD Edition.

It feels more like a port than a genuine remake. Although the incredible gameplay depth remains from the original, so too does the antiquated design. Since it feels so old, it should be a digital title available on the eShop, not sold at stores for the maximum 3DS price.

Despite the unbalanced gameplay, the cinematic, spectacle filled matches make me feel hyped every time I play. I don’t claim to understand every decision NetherRealm made with their new DC inspired fighter, but even with all its flaws, Injustice can’t help but be a crowd pleaser. Even if sometimes it’s more fun to watch than it is to play.

ShootMania Storm is a breath of fresh air in this world of carbon-copy military shooters. It’s a new take on an old genre that will satisfy anyone who grew up alongside the early shooters.

There are many cosmetic quirks that clearly indicate the smaller budget Snail Games has at their disposal, but overall this is a successful blend of familiar MMO concepts with plenty of unique twists.