If you haven’t played Mass Effect already and are looking for the best way to do so, the Legendary Edition will be the way to go. It has all of the games in one convenient package, along with all of the DLC. With the improvements to load times, it is absolutely the definitive way to play Mass Effect on console.

Scars Above sets out as a standard sci-fi action game and experiments to great success. The story intelligently weaves in some horror elements to keep you hooked with a level of narrative consistency and cohesion that keeps things simple yet enjoyable. Combat is fun and forces you to think on your feet, leaving you properly immersed in the gameplay. With only one save file and a lack of voice and mouth synchronization, the game certainly isn’t beyond criticism. Although despite the shortcomings, Scars Above is a great example of a game that isn’t afraid to push boundaries, and succeeds in delivering a fun experience that doesn’t overstay its welcome.

A renewal of the monster-collection genre, Coromon takes the well-loved gameplay formulas of its genre predecessors and polishes them for the modern era. By providing unique twists on traditional turn-based combat, a delightful presentation, and a slew of quality-of-life enhancements, Coromon delivers a nostalgic adventure filled with wonder. While it may occasionally stick a little too faithfully to its RPG roots for the less patient creature-collectors, there’s a whole heap of juicy monster content here for any budding trainer looking for a refreshing take on a classic style of game.

Concord is a great shooter that will pleasantly surprise those willing to tune out the outside noise. Within is fantastic minute-to-minute gunplay and action, complimented by a diverse cast with diverse abilities that can mix up a game at a moment’s notice. Though it’s perhaps the least revolutionary game we’ve seen in a long time and still in need of small functions like leaderboards and a clearer vision for its future, what’s here today is some of the best multiplayer gaming I’ve experienced in forever. I’ve found so many weirdo heroes I’ve grown a rich affinity for, whether it’s via their deep-prosed lore or their chaos-causing gameplay. Concord’s fate isn’t quite written in the stars yet; it’s far better than a majority are giving it credit for. I pray you join me and other Freegunners on this voyage. We need you.

DEATHLOOP is a cathartic blend of stealth, gunplay and powers that culminate in a satisfying gameplay loop as you explore the eccentric island of Blackreef. Whilst the narrative payoffs don't always live up to the intriguing premise, there's an undeniable sense of style and substance that help carry the game into really favourable territory. Knowledge really is power in DEATHLOOP and there's a pleasurable novelty to much of the game's design that allows it to feel engaging even when the player's hand is held a little too tightly. Even within a year of time loop releases, DEATHLOOP stands out as its own unique beast worth experiencing.

Age of Empires IV delivers an absolute feast for strategy fans, offering several gameplay modes, a beautifully crafted story campaign, and stunning visuals. It may not come with a ground-breaking overhaul when it comes to its gameplay mechanics, but it does stay true to the tried and tested classic gameplay formula, which is sure to delight both old and new fans of the franchise.

Worldless is a captivating 2D platformer with a cosmic aesthetic and seamlessly integrated turn-based battles. Traverse spaces, confront challenging combat, and navigate platforms, all while embracing the joy of exploration. The game’s inbuilt difficulty helps create huge satisfaction once you master the combat and the minimalist design brings a harmonious gaming experience, even if it’s to the sacrifice of detailed guidance. The game won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, though, at its core, Worldless still delivers a thoughtful, consistent, immersive, and enjoyable experience.

The Great Villainess: Strategy of Lily is a hilarious take on a strategy campaign, pairing an unserious yet compelling story with genuinely tough gameplay to create an experience that is easy to recommend to any genre fan. The characters are rendered in a striking anime style, making it easy to fall in love with Scarlet, Lily, and their growing band of rebels. The fact that it’s light on side content means that the pacing remains fast and efficient, so you never have a chance to get bored.

Riders Republic offers a cornucopia of extreme sporting choices for players to choose from. By giving enough attention and fine-tuning to each individual sport, it has created an evergreen title to receive future updates or expansions to build upon well into the future. With a solid foundation offering solo and group players fun and exciting experiences, Riders Republic has set the stage incredibly well. While its predecessor Steep failed to capture a lasting audience, I feel strongly that Riders stands a much greater chance at retaining players’ interest due in part to its tongue-in-cheek tone combined with the game’s sheer variety of extreme sports adventures and energetic open world. I look forward to returning to Riders Republic to bike down mountain paths or fly through narrow canyon gaps while listening to alt-rock radio sometime soon.

Astronaut: The Best is a challenging space simulator with a dark sense of humour. Sending astronauts with varying personalities to space is a challenge even in the best of times, and you must make tough decisions. The humour keeps the game entertaining as you struggle to grasp the game’s unpredictability. There’s a steep learning curve since unforeseeable events can turn even the greatest successes into colossal failures. But it keeps gameplay fresh and motivates you to learn everything. Soon you will masterfully send crews to space and even achieve objectives, something that continually stays fun even after the story ends.

Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Pokémon Shining Pearl are faithful recreations of the classic DS titles, updated with plenty of small, ease-of-life changes. While some fans might feel alienated by the features that have been added to make the game easier, the changes are a net positive that make the game a smoother experience all-round. The upgraded Underground and Super Contest Show are both more involved and offer more things to do, and the remade music tracks sound beautiful. Although a lot more could have been done to make these remakes truly special, what's here will make Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl a worthwhile experience for returning fans and new ones alike.

Skate Story is a sensory feast of crystalline visuals, psychedelic sounds and rapturous movement. Its story may get in its own way a few too many times to be a completely propelling experience, but the audacity of its meditations on vulnerability and drive through both its premise and style nonetheless make Skate Story feel like a love letter to skateboarding as a craft. This is a very special skateboarding game that, in those moments when its style, mechanics and ideas all click into place, shines brighter than a diamond under moonlight.

Escape from Ever After discusses the harm that capitalism can have on whimsical, creative, wholesome ideas, such as fairy tales. It features a cast of adorable characters that need to work together to try to save a world that is slowly losing its magic. The combat may have been an issue, but the rest of this party RPG was super charming and exciting to explore. For those who love Paper Mario or cute RPGs, Escape from Ever After may just be your next favourite adventure.

It's unmistakable that Disgaea continues to be genuinely unique – there really isn't anything else like it. Nothing really comes close with such a zany story, beyond ridiculous levelling, and an extreme amount of systems within the game. Every entry tries to change enough to warrant its existence, making improvements but creating new flaws. The 3D modelled characters will be hit or miss, and the current level balancing issues and lack of classes will certainly annoy fans. Yet the chaotic isometric tactical gameplay will always reign supreme over these issues, providing hours upon hours of complex mechanics and charming characters to tinker with. Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny is a delightfully addictive game packed with personality and content.

Drop Duchy works exceptionally well as the smoothness of its core loop expertly slides you from one design quirk to the next, layering them until you’re left with a unique gem. With a delightful aesthetic and an expert understanding of how to meld genres and add twists on classic mechanics to create a compelling and original new game, Drop Duchy is a great purchase for fans of any of its many genres, and a must-have if you’re fond of them all.

Dead in Antares is beautiful in art style and sound, and delivers a resource management experience that will keep any genre fan happy. Its turn-based battles might be the weakest link in the package, but in the face of everything the game does right, it’s easy to overlook a few dragged-out battles in exchange for that feeling of satisfaction you get when every crewmember is fed, happy, and working to save humanity.

Driven by nostalgia, historic reverence, and a caution to avoid repeating past mistakes, Borderlands 4 is born from many lessons learned. It comes in confidently, understanding what makes this series lovable and matching expectations. A huge and nearly seamless open world is certainly commendable, especially when it still feels densely packed with objectives. This isn’t without its shortcomings, though, as bloated content and performance issues can impact the engaging gameplay loop. However, with friends by your side, Borderlands 4 is a satisfying, if imperfect, lootin’ shootin’ good time.

The Plucky Squire may be one of the most exceptionally presented video games in recent memory. In moving from the 2D space to the 3D space, a sense of wonder is created that’s unrivalled by the vast majority of other releases. That sense of wonderment is captured in the storytelling as well, which leans on the charm of children’s fiction. Perhaps a little too scared to create complex depth to the puzzles or gameplay, more mature audiences may find the game lacking in some regard. However, that doesn’t stop the title from being widely appealing and an absolute delight from prologue to epilogue.

Gambonanza isn’t as feature-rich or varied as it could be, but it remains hypnotically compelling all the same. Whether you’re a champion chess player or don’t know your Rooks from your Pawns, Gambonanza’s short, sharp matches and varied Gambit mechanics are engagingly addictive, and are worth checking out for any roguelike fan.

Freeride is an interesting mishmash of RPG and personality test, that does work in the end. The characters are all believable and have stories that feel authentically human. Your choices have an impact on the game itself; sure, you might not be able to see the lasting effects of the choices you make, but they will impact what the game sees of you. The telekinetic powers you’re given early into the game can be tricky to master due to the physics-based mechanics, but the game itself is visually appealing, and the music feels like players have stepped into a Studio Ghibli film. Based on this effort, it’s exciting to see what Flightyfelon Games cooks up next.

Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster is a wonderful return to a game previously locked behind the 3DS. With it, history is repeated: there isn’t all that much of a reason this should only be confined to the Switch 2, limiting audiences for an RPG classic once more. Yet it is. Still, A great game is a great game. My first journey with the Warriors of Light has been fantastic and magical, depicting beautiful environments full of rich tapestries, a classic fantasy story with some surprise twists and turns and an incredibly robust, creative and experimental combat system with oceans of depth. Whether returning to Luxendarc or a newcomer like me, this is one of the first no-brainer RPGs for the Switch 2.

Shin Megami Tensei V is sure to bring a large swath of fresh fans to the series with its beautiful graphics and complex turn-based strategy mechanics. It presents a challenge even on the easiest setting, and the demon recruitment process has been made all the better with livelier, more varied dialogue. Shin Megami Tensei V is only held back by some lacklustre storytelling in the first half, and the unfortunate performance on the Nintendo Switch, which was the wrong console to handle Shin Megami Tensei V’s powerful graphics.

AI: THE SOMNIUM FILES – nirvanA Initiative can throw a lot of information at you, and it will take some time to digest the tutorials and the events of the game. But once you manage to find your footing, you will be investigating an intriguing mystery that crosses different timelines with powerful tools. It’s a story that requires patience, understanding, and some outside-the-box thinking, but it pays off with a fantastic resolution when you reach the real conclusion.

Developers Messhof have created a cycling utopia with Wheel World; they’ve created a universe that celebrates the art of cycling and includes a pumping soundtrack to go along with it. It’s a game that I’m honestly surprised hasn’t been made sooner, due to how prevalent cycling is as a mode of transport and how cyclists love their bikes and the freedom they give them. This is one that I would recommend to my non-gamer cycling mates, as it’s so easy to pick up and will provide them with an immersive world that I know they’d just love to be a reality.

Warhammer 40,000: Chaos Gate – Daemonhunters is an impressive strategy title. With gorgeous graphics, a robust story, and engaging strategy gameplay, its single-player campaign will be a joy to play for strategy fans. The game may have some missteps, but the number of missions and additional ways to upgrade the Baleful Edict keep things interesting for seasoned strategy veterans and newbies alike.

Dosa Divas is another concise and wonderful RPG from Outerloop Games that may be simplistic, but in turn offers adventurous storytelling and themes. With a diverse cast of characters with strong voice acting, emotional beats that hit and a love of all things food and South Asian culture, it’s an incredibly impactful and resonant experience that is a damn great jaunt for the genre. Filled with striking vibes, the entire adventure melts in your mouth and goes down well, lingering within your brain like that one childhood dish you just can’t get enough of. There’s good eatin’ here, folks.

Dice Legacy brings a refreshing and challenging strategy format to the table. The dice mechanics will force you to think on your feet and adapt your strategy along the way, making Dice Legacy’s core gameplay more energetic and dynamic compared to other titles in the genre. While this gameplay format comes with a level of unpredictability which may not be for everyone, it dishes up classic strategy format with a unique twist. For newcomers, Dice Legacy may take a little while to crack, but for gamers with a soft spot for strategy, it’s worth every minute of your time.

Death of a Wish is a great moody action game that’s worth adding to your list of must-play 2024 indies. It’s a narrative with textbook Catholic guilt, a heartfelt journey of self-discovery, and the exploration of queer acceptance. With its pulsating chalk-like line work that makes the images and action leap off the page, a diverse combat system, and an oh-so-satisfying parry to boot—style and substance are at the forefront of the game at all times. Though you can occasionally get lost in the weeds of the prose-like writing and confusing map design, it’s hard to stay mad long at Death of a Wish. It’s a damn cool video game.

Lost in Random depicts a stunningly unique and eccentric world filled to the brim with character and personality. The Tim-Burton visuals and the kooky cast of characters you’ll meet in each distinctively different region means there’s never a dull moment to this journey. Clever strategy card elements help to mask the game’s rather unremarkable real-time combat, with some control issues that hurt the overall experience. Yet despite its flaws, Lost in Random still brings the goods and had me engaged from unlucky start to triumphantly random end.

Strayed Lights definitely ended up surprising me, with an entertaining gameplay loop that finds the perfect sweet spot between “too easy” and “nail-bitingly hard”. Surely a Souls-like veteran might find it a little basic, but if you find yourself struggling with other games in the genre, Strayed Lights could be a great entry point. The art is also gorgeous with vibrant colours and lively animations, so there is plenty to look forward to with each new area and even though the story isn’t super deep, it’s still easy to get invested and want to meet more characters and help them on their journeys. If you are looking for an action-adventure game that provides a light, yet satisfying challenge, Strayed Lights might be perfect for you.

Ash of Gods: The Way doesn’t shy away from the realities of war, whether it’s the unpredictability on the battlefield or the impacts it has on those involved. The story sucks you in as you try to end the war, but your decisions result in non-linear gameplay that makes you wonder if you made the right choice. Combat is strategic and forces you to plan ahead, using all resources available to you to overcome your enemies. The difficult Challenger battles sometimes feel blatantly unfair and having only a single save file does create issues you can’t easily resolve. But if you persevere and come up with new tactics, you are rewarded with a great story and gameplay that makes you feel like a real tactician.

Princess Peach: Showtime! finally gives our first Nintendo Diva the spotlight she has long deserved, and almost shockingly, once again brings us a Nintendo experience that feels both comfortably familiar and thrillingly different. Despite some weird frame-rate issues and a few costume changes that are less memorable than others, the amount of charm and satisfying simplicity oozing out of Princess Peach: Showtime! makes it a stage performance worthy of applause and adoration. Let's hope this first true starring role for Peach isn't her last.

Skin Deep is a wild, fun, and inventive immersive sim, rewarding creative thinking and playful exploration. Its unique look and comical approach to gameplay make it a memorable experience, despite a few mechanical issues and overloaded moments. If you love Blendo Games’ offbeat signature style, blast off into this universe where cats are the real stars and space pirates are disposable entertainment.

MLB The Show 24 does not do anything innovative but what it does do is great. Baseball fans will be able to live out their dreams, both as a player and making their favourite team a dynasty. The Storylines mode is a great history lesson focusing on players that would not be showcased otherwise, while new players will find themselves in familiar game modes from other sports games to orient themselves with. While there is nothing particularly new with the game, it is a fun and informative package that is accessible to all, even those without a good knowledge of baseball who want to learn about its early beginnings or its more recent stars. Those who aren’t interested in history have enough other ways to play the game and still get entertainment out of it.

FixFox is a delightful title that manages to be a comfortable experience despite the at-times heavy themes. The self-fulfilling loop of repairing machines is the highlight, and it’s what you’ll be doing most, outside simple puzzles. Occasional unclear objectives, however, drag the experience down during specific moments. But once you get past FixFox’s quirks, it confidently takes you through a gentle, emotional ride.

Rematch is a wonderful reinterpretation of football with just enough innovation to make the sport its own. Thanks to an amazing gameplay loop and beautiful art style, every match has been unforgettably fun. Unfortunately, some current issues with server performance and limited, restrictive content stop Rematch from becoming a must buy. Still, anyone looking for a hot new multiplayer game like nothing else should keep a close eye on Rematch’s future.

South Park: Snow Day! brings a snow day to life by letting children direct power struggles between nations. The trademark humour of the series returns, making you laugh every step of the adventure. A robust combat system helps you coordinate with your allies while encouraging exploration and taking advantage of your environment. Even if you are alone, AI bots are trustworthy allies who do their best to help. Upgrades are also handled nicely, giving you a variety of playstyles for your character. While chaotic combat and satire might not be for everyone, this remains a solid game to play with others.

Pupperazzi isn’t difficult or cerebral. This photography simulator doesn’t have the budget or serenity that other games in the genre might provide, but handily makes up for it with charm, personality, and hundreds of dogs being big goofballs. Even playing the same level multiple times will give you a random assortment of dogs and toys to mess around with, so the game doesn’t grow stale easily. It’s a fantastic example of a video game letting you live out a simple real-life fantasy: walking around without a care in the world, taking photos of endless dogs, and their fluffy, scratchable butts.

Master Chief is back and better than ever. Halo Infinite introduces open-world elements that don’t distract from the main story and add value to its replayability and memorable action. Even with the inclusion of the thrilling Grappleshot, the gameplay still maintains its signature feel. Multiplayer may need a lot of finetuning, but it costs nothing to play and provides plenty of frantic fun for a group of friends and solo players. With more features and additions to come, Halo Infinite isn’t slowing down… No. I think we’re just getting started.

GRIME dishes up an intriguing universe with even more intriguing enemies and bosses. While its story is on the shallow side, its original visuals and combat mechanics steal the show. However, be warned: in true souls-like fashion, GRIME’s combat is brutal and unforgiving, which might not make it a game for everyone. That said, if you’re not afraid of jumping straight into the action, the game will be just as rewarding as it is challenging. If you thrive on skill-based gameplay and enjoy titles like Dark Souls and Hades, GRIME is sure to be a good fit for your library.

There’s a lot to love about Demon Tides. Maybe it takes some time for the uninitiated to grasp Beebz’s moveset and, sure, it’s a little lacking in its combat department, but when you’re locked into exploring, jumping around and performing sick moves, it’s a treat. It’s so easy to enter some sort of platforming flow state when Ragnar’s Rock is built like a playground for expressive movement. Lean into the chaos, chase the schmovment, and you will absolutely get swept up in the joy of styling your way across Ragnar’s Rock as the little Beebz.

I have played many online multiplayer games in my time, but Knockout City has made a better first impression than most. With its easy-to-understand mechanics, along with the complex mind games involved in almost any interaction, it is very satisfying for quick play sessions. Despite some technical issues and a lack of single-player content and diverse game modes, what is there at launch is a lot of fun so far. Hopefully Velan Studios has more plans to expand the scope of Knockout City further with new maps and cosmetic options over time.

As Dusk Falls tells a wonderful story that is not only thought provoking, but willing to discuss difficult subjects that aren’t often talked about. With every decision having an impact and putting the focus on characters, the story themes are effectively communicated and make you interested in seeing what happens next. Experiencing the game with your friends is also enjoyable, fostering discussions of your choices and what kind of decisions you make. While getting 100% completion for the game can be a tough journey, you are rewarded with story details that open up character motivations and keep you thinking about the characters long after you put down the game.

Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector is a solid strategy game and an excellent addition to the Warhammer catalogue. Although the game only comes with two playable factions, its variety of units for each faction and original combat mechanics keep the game’s core gameplay fast-paced, dynamic, and interesting. This, combined with beautiful visuals and an immersive story told in typical Warhammer fashion, makes for a fun strategy romp from beginning to end, no matter whether you’re a die-hard Warhammer fan or a total newcomer to the Warhammer world. If you’re keen on turn-based strategy, Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector will be an excellent addition to your library.

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a vibrant and whimsical RPG from some of the best that have ever done it. The incredibly rich storytelling and setting are bolstered by a quaint and gorgeous world to explore thanks to the striking diorama sets, charming characters and another stellar Nobuo Uematsu soundtrack. Though the game isn’t without its frustrating grinds, it’s more than the sum of its parts. This is a step forward for the turn-based genre thanks to meaningful and much-needed quality-of-life improvements in its tactical nature and pace-controlling Dimengion system. FANTASIAN Neo Dimension proves there is still so much excellence and magnificence to come from RPGs.

Despite some rough edges, Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One has its heart in the right place. Frogwares is taking the classic Sherlock mythos and spinning off some impressive original work here. The story is well-presented, with the partnership between Sherlock and Jon particularly pleasant. Other cases show some interesting new puzzle types that I have not yet seen before. Whilst the two strengths of this title are separate, which annoys me somewhat, it’s the annoyance I feel when a game is a few decisions short of me showering it in unqualified praise. As it stands, Sherlock Holmes: Chapter One is a standard-setter for open-world mystery games.

Heretic’s Fork features devilishly good visuals and a banging soundtrack. Gameplay-wise, it blends deckbuilding mechanics and tower defence in an interesting way, and fans of titles like Ratrapolis, Slay the Spire and Loop Hero are sure to find something to their liking. While the game may need a little grinding when you first start playing, persistence pays off. With plenty of cards and employees to be unlocked, Heretic’s Fork is sure to keep hardcore players engaged as they progress through the 9 circles of hell.

Minos is another excellent and entertaining gameplay-focused experience from the underrated developer Artificer. Crafting deadly labyrinths to make waves upon waves of human meat victims feels truly devious, thanks to the diverse set of traps and creative building abilities you can experiment with. Though I don’t quite think every piece of the pie works, it’s a winning formula in the form of a well-designed roguelike experience that I can’t exactly turn my nose up at either. Besides, how many other games let you feel like your own ancient Greek version of Jigsaw, crafting mazes and escape room hellscapes of death and torture? Not bloody many.

Two Point Museum combines the Two Point series’ charm with museums to create a simulator experience you won’t forget. Building on a museum theme and making it your own is a true delight. There’s lots of flexibility and you can always challenge yourself to reach greater heights. Creating your dream museum will take lots of time and there is some randomness to it. But the elation of creating and supporting a museum is captured perfectly within this experience.

I found myself very pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed Star Wars Outlaws. I became quite invested in its grounded heist narrative, even if its supporting characters didn't really rise above one-note stereotypes. It was a blast exploring the Star Wars galaxy, whether it was shooting down TIE fighters in space or just chilling in a Sabacc den playing cards with Lando Calrissian. Ubisoft Massive has done an excellent job in crafting an open-world Star Wars adventure, and this is one heist that is worth signing up for.

Two Point Campus takes its time to teach you the fundamentals of running a successful university, with free reign on how you complete your objectives. The depth of the resources given to you and the amount of customisation for each of your campuses shows great attention to detail. The game is filled with wacky, silly, and sometimes dry humour that you can’t help but laugh at. While there are annoying inconveniences, success is still in your hands. It can be hectic, but you won’t find a better university management sim than this.

Demon’s Mirror is a hell of a good time. The way it combines deckbuilding and the grid battle system had me hooked from my very first run and it’s so easy to learn. With an array of different cards to discover and modify, its inclusion of three characters with three different playstyles creates alot opportunity to play how you want. Even though the enemies can be repetitive and I found runs super quick to complete, Demon’s Mirror may just be one of 2024’s moore exciting new deckbuilders.

Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope is probably the most approachable tactics game ever. Featuring new map navigation, dozens of abilities to tool around with and a diverse fantastical cast, it makes for an even more readable experience. The magic spark that I felt had been missing from some of Mario's more recent adventures is coincidentally back again, amongst Ubisoft's quirky mascots of all things. Yes, even when the Rabbids can be just that little bit annoying, they're as equally charming when meshed with the Nintendo cast. At times the overzealous amount of side content may also daunt the player, but never enough to take away from the clever and delightful journey. Sparks of Hope is the most exciting franchise affair we've had since Odyssey.

As an action game and a roguelike, Forestrike is a satisfying, if challenging, experience. By allowing the player to foresee fights and predict their foes’ next moves, it turns what would be a by-the-numbers 2D fighting game into a more thoughtful experience built around memorisation, timing and strategy. While it drags anytime you have to claw yourself back following a game over, Forestrike makes up for it with its varied combat system and appealing aesthetics. If you’re a roguelike fan or an action fan, there’s a lot to like about Forestrike, and it’s certainly worth jumping into.

Scarlet Nexus combines an enthralling story with fascinating characters and an addictive combat system that demands your attention. As you slowly peel back the layers of its cast, the twists and turns of the narrative will keep you engaged throughout its lengthy adventure, and as your skills increase, battles become a chaotic dance of exploding enemy bits, crazy finishing movies and endorphin increasing pleasure. While there are some areas that can feel repetitive at times and the visual novel presentation of its cutscenes might not be for everyone, there's a lot packed into this dual protagonist story that begs for an extra playthrough as soon as you finish your first. Scarlet Nexus is unmatched when it comes to style and oomph. It manages to incorporate so many clever and creative combat systems that are slick and exciting that it far outweighs the slower pace of its narrative with in-your-face, over-the-top action that simply must be played to be believed.

Everything that I loved about Citizen Sleeper is present here in Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector. The music and art are as stunning as they ever were, the quality of the writing is exceptional and there is no shying away from complexity when it comes to the questions posed and the sometimes painful, but often beautiful conclusions drawn from them. While it doesn’t engage with its core theme as extensively as I might have liked, I found myself enjoying every moment I spent in the Starward Belt, and I was captivated by everything I saw through the Sleeper’s eyes.

TEKKEN 8 unleashes a storm of punches, blending chaotic Mishima drama with accessible combat changes. The short story, though dramatic, loses steam, but the Heat system and Special Style redefine the fight. Arcade Quest mode injects a needed charm, offering a nostalgic journey with opportunities to grow your fighting game skills. Visually stunning with a diverse soundtrack, the game achieves a balance between the familiar and the cutting-edge. Despite a stumble in the narrative, TEKKEN 8 delivers a knockout combo.

As a debut title, Violet Saint has done an impressive job of building a world that feels both dark and dismal, but also alive and full of character. Moroi is so much more than just a hack-and-slash, with both mystery and puzzles to solve throughout. The cast of absurd characters and humour keeps things light, even with all the gore, and the action packed combat sequences are bolstered by the pumping soundtrack. Even if you aren’t familiar with Romanian folklore, anyone who enjoys a good grimdark fantasy will enjoy Moroi.

The Elder Scrolls Online: Gold Road expansion demonstrates ZeniMax Online Studio’s storytelling and world-building excellence. While the gripping narrative, new Scribing mechanic, and challenging but rewarding trial will appeal to long-time fans, this chapter and the game are no longer new player-friendly. Gold Road is a must-experience chapter for the crowd still invested in one of the best MMOs in recent years, but it poses significant questions about ESO’s growth and future.

Blippo+ isn’t for those who are drawn to a game solely for its gameplay. It’s more for those who have an interest in popular culture, sci-fi and what potentially playing with our own ideas of science, entertainment, and opinions can create. As a child of the 90s, I found this to be a nostalgic ride through a lot of visual concepts that are now seen as kitschy and dated, but that really come alive, and seem like fresh, new concepts due to the extent the game goes in making every element of Blippo+ feel like a real world. Blippo+ is an amazing example of world-building done well and will be an exciting ride for those who love unique, strange visual experiences.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma perfectly blends the farming and combat experience with Japanese influences. The result is an immersive cultural experience that you don’t want to put down. You actually feel like you are rebuilding villages and restoring prosperity to the land instead of just being a landowner. While it isn’t perfect despite several improvements to the formula, it nevertheless delivers a fun experience that you won’t soon forget.

Goodbye Volcano High is a fun, nerdy, queer narrative adventure that focuses on the last days of high school, and possibly, the last days on earth, for a group of quirky teenagers. Its narrative is full of heart and players will fall in love with its concept and characters. Some gameplay elements can be a bit hit and miss, though overall, you’ll likely fall in love with the snappy dialogue and beautiful, wholesome relationship between these dino teens.

If you’re looking for a fun fitness routine that you can easily do at home, then Fitness Boxing 3: Your Personal Trainer. Not only does it incentivise you to return every day, but the exercises you will be doing will get your heart racing. While it shouldn’t replace going to a gym, nor will it make you a professional boxer, it will give you a workout based on your needs and abilities and you can change it to your heart’s content.

Where The Heart Leads is a terrific narrative game that has you make hard, fascinating life choices on behalf of its characters to create a story that feels your own. It utilises its surreal elements sparingly, instead opting to focus on the realistic personal lives of its many richly nuanced characters. Despite some slight issues with dialogue, menus, and the camera, Where The Heart Leads is a great experience, and a fascinating exploration of issues rarely covered in games.

Soulstice is a truly great action game, which despite taking many cues from stylish action titles of the past, carves out enough of an identity to stand out on its own. The system of controlling both sisters and maintaining auras while slashing through foes is intuitive and simple to master. Although the plot leaves many threads hanging, the development of the central sibling relationship and setting were enough to draw me into Soulstice’s world and want to see more. If you’re a fan of challenging action games and can forgive a slightly annoying camera, Soulstice is definitely worth checking out.

Frostpunk 2 dishes up engaging strategy challenges that will have you balancing multiple resources, faction demands, and production all throughout a playthrough. While it may be challenging for first-time players for this reason, the game also makes it worth your while with an impressive level of overall depth. Frostpunk 2 feels like it’s suffused with story in every possible way, and it’s clear that the developers have made the effort to create an authentic world that comes with difficult and impactful choices. If you’re a seasoned strategy buff with a penchant for story and you’re not put off by difficult decisions in a dystopian world, Frostpunk 2 is sure to be a worthy addition to your library.

Sumerian Six will more than suffice in filling the tactics-shaped hole you may have in your heart. Though its story isn’t all there and it’s far from original, it’s made up for with an electric cast with devastating and creative abilities. This sandbox nature of killing in inventive ways is only bolstered by intricate and smart level design that allows for many a cool Nazi-slaying moment. Artificer have pulled off the difficult mission of replicating the giants that came before them while showcasing enough of their own creative juices. Job well done.

ISLANDERS: New Shores builds upon what made the first game great and why I got it in the first place back in 2020. It added new elements to keep players engaged, while also providing a fresh improvement from the first game, by featuring better visuals, music, improved gameplay mechanics, and a points system that encourages you to reach the top of the leaderboard. It’s a cozy game if you’re after something chill or an intense puzzle game if you’re after that top spot. Regardless, it’s addictive and will keep you hooked.

A solo-developed whimsical puzzle adventure, Rhell: Warped Worlds and Troubled Times impressively amalgamates some of the best ideas in recent indie gaming and presents them in a gorgeously neo-retro package. From its witty, low-stakes writing to its diabolical open-ended puzzles, it scratches the brain just right. Some awkwardness in its movement can be forgiven when presented with the sheer freedom of experimentation its rune system and element-based world allow. A true indie gem.

Warriors: Abyss wastes no time giving players a tangible story and also appears to lack depth in its opening moments, but that also doesn’t matter. Instead, it focuses on translating the Musou experience into a tactile and fast-paced roguelike adventure and it excels at doing just that, rewarding players the more they put into it. Providing a thrilling and refreshing take on the Warriors series, it is not to be missed.

Fishbowl will put you through an emotional rollercoaster. It’s a narrative-heavy story dealing with grief, the loss of a loved one, isolation and even depression. Fishbowl features little mini-games for you to play, as you help Alo uncover the boxes filled with memories of her grandma. The art and sound design are fantastic, and there are some moments where the characters touch on topics perceived as taboo. The game presents a lot of unique characters who help Alo grow, and who Alo can help, too. There are issues, like some gameplay elements not being explained well. But, overall, it’s a touching game that will have me thinking about it for years to come.

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is what all of the LEGO games have been building towards, if you’ll pardon the expression. With its huge open world with side quests, puzzles and secrets galore, it's a great adventure game for players of all ages. If you’re a Star Wars fan, then the nostalgia trip and mountains of obscure characters and references they manage to sneak in there is a real treat. While the unimaginative script and missing character creator does hold it back somewhat compared to previous entries, from a gameplay and content standpoint, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is the most ambitious LEGO game yet, and a must-have for Star Wars or LEGO fans out there.

LEGO Party is a great idea executed really well. It delivers a Mario Party-style experience with its own unique game board mechanics, inventive mini-games, and wonderful presentation. Younger players will love what’s on offer, but there’s plenty of solid fun to be had by all ages and skill levels. It doesn’t shine when played single player, but with a few friends on board, it’s a fantastic addition to your party game nights.

Though not quite as strong as its predecessor thanks to its narrative devices, The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak II is another incredibly strong RPG under Nihon Falcom’s long-running belt. The party is stacked this time and serves as a warm-found family. Perhaps one of the best in the RPG scene. With this, there are a lot of exciting combat shenanigans and party DNA to engage in, joyously laying waste to beasties and mysterious figures. Better yet, the city of Edith feels more lived and breathed in than ever thanks to the bountiful list of activities and completion metrics to engage with. Though their journey is slightly rocky, at least Arkride Solutions has and always will have each other.

Mothmen 1966 is ultimately a terrific little horror game, reminding us that the genre can be more than first-person jumpscare factories. As the first episode of the 3-part first volume of Pixel Pulps, the adventures of Holt, Victoria, and Lee provide a terrific first impression of what will hopefully be a memorable series. The brief interactive interludes do not hold up to the polish of the writing, soundscapes, and graphics of Mothmen 1966, but LCD Game Studio have a chance to update those mechanics when the next episode, Varney Lake, comes out later this year.

Ultros is a stunning space ride through the trippy landscape of The Sarcophagus that will keep players wondering what secrets they will uncover amidst the captivating backdrop. Though the narrative can be hard to get your head around and the world is easy to get lost in the “gardenvania” concept brings additional magic to the Metroidvania genre. Ultros has paved the way for the genre to not play it safe and is one of those experiences that reiterates how games can still present us with unique ideas and worlds.

Knights in Tight Spaces has a core combat loop strong enough to carry the entire package and more than compensates for the hit-and-miss progression and the trite story. It constantly creates tactical puzzles that make you feel like a genius for escaping an impossible situation or a mastermind for pulling off a carefully laid trap. With a great sense of style and a banging soundtrack, Knights in Tight Spaces is a tough but fair tactical roguelike that will constantly have you playing just one more turn.

I would highly recommend playing Danganronpa if you have any sort of interest in murder mystery or visual novels, either on Switch after they patch the performance issues or on another platform. The games are a lot of fun and you are sure to be sucked into them. The aesthetic and music is a step above the rest and while the story can be a little wild at times, it will always keep you engaged. It is nice that Danganronpa has returned to its portable roots, but upsetting that the ports are a little rough around the edges. I wouldn’t say this is the best way to play the series in its current state, but hopefully that will change in time.

Roguebook is a refreshing take on traditional card games. With its original map and combat mechanics, it delivers engaging roguelike elements that keep things interesting run after run. While the game might not contain the world’s most ground-breaking story, card game aficionados are sure to find something to their liking in this Faeria-themed release.

KarmaZoo offers a unique cooperative platformer experience, that actively engages players to experiment and work together. Its colourful graphics and original game mechanics are incredibly charming, and the variety of levels and character forms means no two runs ever look the same. Additionally, thanks to the game’s structure, runs are short and engaging, making it a perfect title to unwind to while catching up with friends. That said, players who are completionists may find that unlocking every possible form can feel like too much of a grind, as that process comes with a hefty karma price tag. But, if you’re looking for a casual title to dip in and out of for a long time to come, KarmaZoo is certainly worth picking up.

Hirogami is a fantastic little platformer with surprising depth. Its origami world, from every folded tree and piece of wildlife, is a joy to behold, brought further to life with a vibrant soundscape inspired by traditional Japanese instruments. While the combat could perhaps have been a bit more enjoyable, Hirogami’s narrative, layered with subtext about the place of traditional art forms in the modern era and overall fun platforming kept me engaged for its 8-ish hour playtime. If you’re seeking a platforming adventure with a remarkable artistic vision, Hirogami is a great time and an adventure worth unfolding.

If Capes’ biggest crime is that it isn’t the most original game and that its fights require more thought than some might like, then I’d call Spitfire Interactive’s debut a hearty success. Within its deep tactics gameplay is plenty of exciting and creative party DNA to tool around with. It even has a surprisingly refreshing tone and take on the superhero genre that is the most authentic I’ve seen in a while. So why not go save the world? I promise a super duper good time awaits.

30 Birds is a rich experience with a gorgeous world to explore that takes full advantage of the marriage of both 2D and 3D. The puzzles are engaging and there is plenty of variety to be found across the lanterns and amongst its colourful cast of characters. The story ends a little more abruptly than I would have liked, but it does end with the implication that Zig and the bird goddess are romantically interested in each other, which rules. There’s a lot to love with 30 Birds so it’s a shame that it still has a couple of bugs here and there and that the outstanding soundtrack just disappears sometimes. They are very minor issues though and ones that I’m certain will be patched very soon. I had a great time exploring the lanterns within 30 Birds and I’m sure you will too.

Persona 3 Reload feels simultaneously like it has been adequately modernised and yet also remains stuck in the past. While the updated combat and visuals make the game a lot more approachable for fans whose first game in the series was Persona 5, the monotonous procedurally generated dungeon that takes up half the game is hard to look past. Furthermore, for players who are existing fans of Persona 3, it is a definite shame that so much of the new content introduced in other versions of the game isn’t present here. Despite those shortcomings, Persona 3 Reload remains an excellent (if not necessarily definitive) version of a groundbreaking JRPG that is still a joy to play in 2024, and Persona and general JRPG fans are sure to have a great time.

While Waiting is a wonderful game about time wasting, and all the fun and creative ways in which you can do that. Sometimes all you can do is sit and wait, and sometimes that gives the most rewarding outcome. Sometimes the most important thing you can do with your time is nothing, as long as it’s with people you care about. Living life, being with the people you love and doing the things that make you happy is never a waste of time.

A faithful remake of the most polarising 3D Zelda title, Skyward Sword HD provides numerous quality of life improvements that help polish some of the original’s roughest edges. Its issues with pacing, repetitive gameplay elements, and a lacklustre narrative remain moderate detractions from what is an otherwise legendary Zelda experience, filled to the brim with the charisma, creativity, and satisfying dungeoneering the series is famous for. While it doesn’t bring any new content to the table, the addition of button controls and portability (courtesy of the Switch) means there’s never been a better way for newcomers and diehard fans to experience the strategic combat and innovative puzzle-solving of this lofty adventure.

Crown Gambit is a gorgeous experience that successfully blends strategic card-based combat with a rich, dark fantasy narrative. It feels like it’s been ripped out of Game of Thrones, in the best way. The Ancestral Grace mechanic adds such a brilliant layer of tension to its usage, weaving your combat choices into the story with some meaningful consequences, though its overuse can substantially negate the challenge of combat. While there are occasional pacing issues, Crown Gambit’s incredible art direction and world-building make it a game well worth playing.

More could have been done to make Suikoden I&II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars a more momentous release for the series’ 30th anniversary. Quality of life additions such as a prettier look and cleaner HUD to the first game in particular could’ve made the two games stand together better in this collection, but two great games from thirty years ago are, unsurprisingly, still great games today. There’s a lot of magic, charm and gusto to recruiting your dozens upon dozens of friends and allies, all in the hope of overcoming a greater, more powerful looming threat. This beautiful but also simultaneously terrifying world full of injustice is incredibly timely for both returning fans and newcomer RPG enthusiasts like myself. So gather your friends; it’s time to take on the world.

Desta: The Memories Between provides a difficult narrative filled with grief and regret. However, through its meditative, albeit unintuitive gameplay, it provides a safe and reflective journey into Desta’s heart. An experience that may have the player remembering back on their own life and relationships. With this relatable and emotionally driven narrative, the game provides a safe space for the player to examine themselves and all it asks is to throw a ball. This all makes Desta: The Memories Between stand out as a great game and an incredible exploration of healing.

Ys Memoire: Oath in Felghana may be far from the most ambitious port or rerelease, but it is another example of Nihon Falcom catching the West up to speed across all modern platforms with their beloved games. Featuring a bite-sized story with a charming cast of characters and just enough of a rich world filled with twists, I found myself enamoured with this version of Adol Christin’s third adventure. On offer is joyous fast-paced action RPG combat where you really move about everywhere around a dungeon or arena, especially in the delightfully sweaty boss encounters. Though the new additions and ‘upgrades’ aren’t all that substantial, Oath in Felghana is a wonderful foray to finally have on Western consoles. Long live Ys and long live Adol Christin!

Players who enjoy casual puzzle titles are sure to find something to love in Arranger: A Role-Puzzling Adventure. With its beautifully hand-drawn world and original puzzle mechanics, Arranger offers a compelling story world with engaging puzzles that are great for puzzle fans, both young and old. The world’s grid system creates a novel way to interact with engaging puzzles while also expanding on the story world. If you’re looking for a hardcore puzzle challenge, Arranger might not be for you, however, if you’re looking for a casual experience with colourful graphics to boot, Arranger will be a great fit for your library.

PEAK is, well, the peak of climbing games. Aggro Crab and Landfall Games’ combined talent resulted in an incredibly tactile, aptly challenging and delightfully chaotic puzzle platformer. With lots of colour, whimsy and charm, every pitfall or plummet to your death on the trying climb is just another opportunity for you and your friends to pick yourself up off your feet, and get moving again. It’s dangerous to go alone, take this plush alien toy, healing balm and your best pals with you. You won’t regret it.

Don’t Stop, Girlypop! is a unique take on a genre that has, for decades, appealed to a predominantly masculine audience. By coating everything in a thick layer of pink paint and throwing some glitter on top, Funny Fintan Softworks has taken this title from a simple movement shooter to a critique of the idea of masculinity and femininity as a whole. With easy-to-learn but challenging-to-master movement mechanics that feel as fluid and fun, plus a totally original and incredibly catchy hyperpop soundtrack, Don’t Stop, Girlypop! feels like a much-needed re-tint of a tired genre.

Cuisineer invites you to savour a unique blend of roguelite excitement and restaurant management. With over 100 recipes and dozens of ingredients, you can craft your own culinary experience in a customised kitchen, all while serving the diverse residents of Paell. While the village may feel overwhelming at times, the warmth of the townsfolk and the variety of quests create a cosy, immersive experience. Despite a few quirks like the lack of a UI tracking system and loading screen inconveniences, Cuisineer shines with its adorable anthropomorphic art and a gameplay smorgasbord that blends combat, cooking, and questing into a truly enchanting experience. So, don your spatula, savour the joy of culinary chaos, and let Cuisineer whisk you away on a journey that’s enjoyable and heartwarming.

Black Ops 6 nicely balances an action-packed campaign, lively multiplayer, and a refreshing take on Zombies. The game combines great visuals and gameplay, proving once again why Call of Duty remains a powerhouse in the gaming industry. While some technical hiccups and issues with multiplayer suppress the fun, the sensational controls and production values make it hard to put down.

EA Sports WRC is definitely not a let down and is a more than worthy successor to Dirt Rally 2.0. Even though I had some concerns about a new game engine and wondered if that gameplay would translate, thankfully those fears were unfounded. Make no mistake, this is a solid racing game featuring plenty of cars, plenty of locations (plus loads of stages within them) and excellent gameplay be that via wheel or pad.

A Little to the Left is a fun puzzle game for all ages. The depth and variety of puzzle is good to see, with extra replayability allowing certain puzzles to shine. A daily puzzle delivered to each player provides a unique touch. While the game is great, there aren’t a lot of accessibility options such as a colour-blind mode or arachnophobia filter. However, the nature of the game is still easily approachable with beautifully stylised art and music bringing great pleasure. A Little to the Left is pure wholesome and cozy fun.

It’s hard not to love the adorable Dusty’s capers in Justice Sucks. It’s a fun arcade game that isn’t afraid to tell a story as well. Each new area brings its own obstacles to face, but in the end, Dusty has all the tools to rise above the bad guys in this sentient robot action romp. Being so replayable works heavily in the game’s favour. It’s a great time for anyone keen to jump into a challenge-orientated arcade game packed full of chaos.