Cadence of Hyrule is the Legend of Zelda game I didn’t know I wanted, and now can’t live without. It’s perfect for both bus rides and extended eyebleed caliber play sessions has the raddest soundtrack of the year, and is randomly generated to ensure infinite replayability. It’ll be in my rotation for a good long while, and deserves a place on your Switch wishlist, Zelda fan or not.

This is one game that all 3DS owners should definitely consider, and for fans of the Fire Emblem series purchasing it is a no brainer as there is really not a lot to complain about here.

They’ve done it again, and created something that is truly impressive. If you enjoy puzzle games, pick this up. If you want a deep and meaningful story, you can also get that here as you can plod along at your own pace, stopping at all of the terminals. If you just want something pretty to look at, boot up The Talos Principle and see how high you can crank the visual settings.

The level design is beautiful as the colours pop from the screen and art design is equally fantastic.

Wolfenstein: The New Order doesn’t reinvent the franchise or give us anything particularly innovative. Yet what it does do is excel at giving us a deep shooter experience unlike we have seen on the Xbox One to date. This visually remarkable game features memorable characters, a terrific soundtrack and frantically entertaining gameplay. Wolfenstein: The New Order is hard to put down and for good reason – it simply kicks ass.

If tight, challenging combat, and infinite replayability in a charmingly depressing setting is your cup of tea, Dead Cells is the game for you.

Telltale Games clearly has another hit on its hands and I cannot wait to see how this story unfolds… or more appropriately how I choose to unfold it.

Metroid: Samus Returns doesn’t merely hope to satisfy a sense of nostalgia, it transcends those aspirations to become a much more compelling experience. It takes nearly everything about its predecessors that made them great and introduces new elements that make gameplay feel fresh and exciting.

Forza Motorsport 6 is the definitive sim/circuit racing experience that is accessible to all levels of racers on the current generation of consoles.

NHL 13 is by far the most complete edition yet, surpassing the stellar NHL 12 by a long shot even if the commentary has some shortcomings.

From stunning visuals and sound to an outstanding cast of characters and a bunch of customization, this game exceeds expectations in nearly every aspect.

Bottom line; this is real Uncharted. It may not have been written and directed by Neil Druckmann, but it bears his fingerprints. Action-packed, full of trademark Naughty Dog humor, and a surprising amount of character development and heart make Lost Legacy a full Uncharted experience.

It is by no means a flawless game, or series, but is a memorable one and one that raises the bar when it comes to storytelling in a video game franchise.

With full character development, a wonderful companion system, and a spirit all its own, The Outer Worlds is everything I had hoped it would be and more. From the excellent writing to the beautiful environments, each new world is vast enough to feel expansive without being desolate and wasted space. The gameplay and combat is fantastic and handles great, with the only downside being its occasional dip in frame rate or issues loading textures. The Outer Worlds fulfills the promise every other RPG makes of putting you in control and I can’t wait to try the game over and over again with different styles and tactics.

So is Wargroove: Double Trouble worth your hard-earned money? Absolutely. It takes things that already worked in the base game and cranks it up just enough so that- hold on. What’s that? I’m being informed that Double Trouble… is free? This expansion that shakes up the tactics and the balance, that adds extra content to this already robust game is absolutely zero dollars? You guys! That’s amazing. Install this expansion pack and get into the rhythm of this excellent and yes, groovy game.

If you missed out on Not A Hero elsewhere, then this is the version to get. It might not live up to its subtitle of Super Snazzy, but this is a slightly snazzier version of Roll7’s great shooter. It’s a shame that there isn’t more of a reason to double dip, though, as playing as BunnyLord is an enticing extra. Even if it’s one that’s separate from the main game.

F1 2017 took that momentum from 2016 and built on it to create an excellent experience.

Astral Chain is an excellent action game that uses the Switch’s unique hardware in creative ways. It fits handsomely in PlatinumGames’ excellent catalog and should satisfy anyone who likes Japanese action RPGs, or third-person action games. It is a wholly satisfying experience.

Microsoft Flight Simulator is not without its faults. The user interface is hardly user-friendly, opting for a simple recreation of the PC version without much thought given to console gaming. The Flight Training tutorials could have some added polish to make them more accommodating to aspiring pilots. And finally, if I’m going to crash, let me crash in style. Give me epic explosions or something to punctuate my failures – not just a simple black screen. If you’re currently an Xbox Game Pass subscriber, then you have no choice at all – download Microsoft Flight Simulator right at this moment and experience this amazing accomplishment in gaming. Yes, this game is a simulator, but it’s a simulator that does so many things right.

Iceborne is an amazing DLC that is well worth the hefty price tag. It continues with amazing graphics and fun, challenging gameplay, while bringing a whole new level of grind to an extreme grind game by adding many more hours of content and many more items to collect for those who are looking to scratch that collector’s itch.

Invisible Inc PS4 is a mediocre adaptation of the original version, but that source material is of the highest possible quality. The layered strategic elements of Invisible Inc are second to none, while the roguelike elements provide literally limitless replayability.

At its core, Forza Horizon 5 is about having fun behind the wheel. It’s technically excellent and plays brilliantly, but it never takes itself too seriously. I mean, I jumped a pinata float off a mountain at one point. That balance makes the Horizon series the most grin-inducing racing games out there, and arguably one of the largest feathers in Xbox Game Studios’ cap.

Ori and the Blind Forest is a title that has set the bar high for modern day “Metroidvania” games. From the original artwork and the enveloping soundtrack to the pixel perfect control and heartfelt narrative, anyone who plays this game will find themselves hooked from the get-go.

Overall, LittleBigPlanet for the PS Vita is simply a wonderful addition to the franchise as it utilizes all the hardware features of the Vita unlike any other game that I can think of making it hard to put down.

The Forza Horizon 5 Hot Wheels expansion is really easy to recommend if you enjoy Forza Horizon 5. It adds a brand new, Hot Wheels-themed region and 10 new Hot Wheels cars that you can earn for your collection. You’ll get hours of playtime from Hot Wheels park, from ranking up to Legend status to developing your own tracks in the creator. It’s worth noting that this Hot Wheels expansion is also quite a bit more enjoyable than the recently released Hot Wheels Unleashed game, which makes me wonder… when Playground Games are done exploring the world of Fable, maybe they should be tasked with a full-on Hot Wheels game. At any rate, I would highly recommend the Forza Horizon 5 Hot Wheels expansion.

Kirby: Triple Deluxe is a load of fun and adorably cute.

While Until Dawn lacks complex gameplay, it counters with compelling characters, astounding visuals, and a thought provoking storyline. A masterful fusion of art forms, Until Dawn is a refreshingly self-aware experience that no thriller fan should pass up.

Children of Morta is a resoundingly impactful, thoughtful, and humanizing rogue-lite with an all-consuming narrative you simply can’t stop chasing. Even with its dark, fantasy filled setting it tells a very grounded story about family, love, and sacrifice in the face of adversity. The voice acting is spot on, the complex pixel-art is gorgeous to pause and behold, and combat feels powerful with everyone in the family. The dungeons are vast enough to compel you to explore without wasting your time on endless corridors, and the game strikes a perfect balance between entry-level rogue-lite and epic RPG that makes it stand tall over your average rogue-lite. We’ve waited a long time for Children of Morta and the wait was more than worth it.

Outer Wilds does what it sets out to do so well that I can give it no higher praise than say it’s a must-have game for any of us interested in outer space and science fiction. It takes the lessons from games before it, mixes in some actual spooky physics, and leans on its handcrafted nature to great impact. While small in scope there’s so much to uncover you will never want it to end.

The final battle in Archangel is one of the coolest, most epic experiences I’ve had yet in VR. The sense of scale and power you feel makes this a new high watermark for the PlayStation VR platform and for VR in general. If you can overlook the iffy graphics, you’re in for an immersive and moving experience.

It exists to tell a beautiful story with no words, and in this, it absolutely excels. The score to Fe is without comparison and that alone is worth playing the game. When you add to that the adorable Fe and the forest full of unique and mystical creatures, the singing mechanic and the gorgeous art style, it’s hard to imagine someone turning this game down, especially because it is nowhere near a standard full price.

I can only say this: give Dear Esther a chance; it could prove to connect with you on a deep and personal level while challenging your perception on gaming as an art form. Or, you’ll find it pointless and know to avoid these interactive experiences in the future.

If you like first person shooters, if you’re an old DOOM fan, or if you just like killing demons, treat yourself to DOOM 2016.

Fantastic visuals, top-notch sound and varied gameplay makes Sleeping Dogs a must own for gamers who enjoy such titles as Grand Theft Auto, Saints Row and Crackdown. The compelling story manages to suck you right in and the level of depth offered up in the game is impressive.

Opus: Prism Peak is SIGONO’s largest project yet, and the game delivers heavily on what it sets out to accomplish. Whether the game’s narrative resonates with you personally or not, it has a lot to offer in and out of the gaming space. The title’s narrative is at the forefront, supported strongly by its art style, gameplay mechanics, and everything in between. Prism Peak is an easy recommendation for anyone with an interest in narrative-focused games and will leave a lasting impression on me. Since beating the game, I’ve already gone back to fill out the rest of my notebook and collect the other endings.

Deserts of Kharak is a triumphant return to Homeworld, just minus the space part.

There is a lot to really like about Project Cars 2. There’s a veritable smorgasbord of cars and tracks, enough so that there should be something for everyone. The visuals are again top notch. The handling is much improved since the first game. The issues that are there are ones that seem to be at least fixable.

I didn’t really get much into the original Luigi’s Mansion so I was unsure what to expect for a handheld sequel, but I came away pleasantly surprised with the high level of visual detail, fun gameplay mechanics, amount of replayability, and inclusion of an entertaining multiplayer.

I cannot emphasize enough what a grand adventure Wanderer is. The game has the right mix of action and puzzle-solving to keep things from getting stale. Voice acting and the orchestral score are top-notch and bring added gravitas to the proceedings. The only niggle in the presentation comes with the actions of the NPCs. Sometimes they are oblivious to your presence and movement. This makes their obviously scripted behaviour all that more artificial.

Owlboy is sure to be a classic, and you’re doing yourself a disservice by not at least looking into it.

Galactic Civilizations III: Crusade is not just another DLC; this feels like an expansion or maybe even a sequel to the original release. While this was one of my favorite games already, the improved depth and gameplay make the 20th or 30th hour just as fun and interesting as the first – and that is saying something. Stardock has made one of gaming’s best 4X strategy games even better, and this an essential purchase for series veterans and newcomers alike.

Hollow Knight: Silksong manages to live up to the daunting expectations surrounding the sequel. It carries the spirit of the original while introducing fresh mechanics that shape a remarkable adventure, one worthy of standing alongside its predecessor. The challenge is steep, but the true reward comes from mastering enemy patterns and finding ways to overcome them. Every element coalesces into an experience that exemplifies what’s possible when developers take the time to fully realize their vision.

This is Skyrim we’re talking about here, and this version will make any Elder Scrolls aficionados very happy.

FIFA 14 for the Xbox One is quite simply an impressive launch game. The enhanced visuals make for a game that comes alive and for the first time in recent memory I truly felt like I was “in the game”.

Regardless of how well-received their initial product was, Halcyon 6: Lightspeed Edition is an evolution of it.

Octopath Traveler is an incredible combat system, a juicy progression tree and a gorgeous setting wrapped in the trappings of a traditional RPG.

Those that have profoundly enjoyed titles like Journey or Flower, games that push the concept of what a “video game” should be, will relish in the opportunity to take the plunge in this atmospheric underwater world. Rather than ask players to challenge themselves, ABZÛ gives you the freedom to explore the mysteries of the deep at your own pace, providing an ebb and flow that offers a masterful experience.

At the end of the day I just get this sense that XCOM: Enemy Unknown is one of those sleeper hits in the latter half of 2012. The smooth interface, sharp looking visuals, and surprisingly tense tactical turn-based gameplay are simply a blast.

When it comes down to it, the game is a Metroidvania and it’s dating-sim. The Deep End Games does both pretty darn well. Just like in the reality show, no matter your flavor of weird, Romancelvania’s got something for you.

With just the right mix of nostalgia and new features, as well as beautiful, colourful graphics, and a very impressive online experience, Pokémon X and Y both offer a refreshing change to the much loved series that both newcomers and long time fans can appreciate, and these games are one of the best titles available for the 3DS system to date.

I found it to be surprisingly challenging, and while it may a bit too easy for veterans of previous games I think it’s a great.

This truly is a Skyrim expansion pack, and is a great purchase for any fan of the series who's hungry for a new adventure.

While it looks and plays differently than past Dragon Age games, Dragon Age: The Veilguard doesn't abandon either its rich trove of lore or ability to tell engaging stories. Dragon Age: The Veilguard has memorable characters and action-focused combat that contains more than enough depth to see it through to the end. Polished and confident, Dragon Age: The Veilguard feels like a return to form for the developer. Dragon Age: The Veilguard gives us a beautiful world to experience, interesting companions to explore it with, and action that grows increasingly more nuanced throughout.

Mega Man 11 brings the series to new heights. Every element of the game is glistening with polish. Yet, the core Mega Man formula remains largely unchanged. If you’re coming to this game looking for massive, sweeping shifts to the Blue Bomber’s oeuvre, you may come away disappointed. My disbelief at the growth that’s happened is tempered by the amount of growth in question. Make no mistake, these are small steps. But they still take Mega Man to a new place, one that I’m quite reluctant to leave. In spite of my constant, low-burning frustration, I've had a blast with this game. Fans can rest easy knowing that Capcom has brought the blue bomber back with a vengeance.

Thumper is easily the best game I have played on Playstation VR. It’s fresh, exciting and leaves you wanting more. It’s amazing to think that this title was created by a two-man development team of ex-Harmonix employees. If there’s one game you should show off you to your friends when they come over, it’s definitely Thumper.

In a landscape littered with lazy, poorly optimized or outright broken PC ports, Stellar Blade stands out for its attention to detail, wealth of options and strong performance. It’s a great way to experience one of the best action-adventure RPGs from 2024.

This remaster not only revamps the visuals and playability, but it also adds a whole expansion pack to the game. Priced like a large DLC, there is no reason not to get this game if you are already an Age of Empires fan. I can only hope that all remasters in the future will be as good as this.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves was worth the wait. Every mechanic is meticulously crafted, resulting in a deep, multilayered fighter. The systems in place encourage strategic thinking and quick adaptation, making each battle feel like a thoughtful, tactical encounter. While the single-player campaign lacks the imagination that imbues the gameplay, SNK has delivered a game that not only honors the legendary legacy of the franchise but also confidently moves it forward.

Crash is back, baby! Fans can rejoice as Toys for Bob and Activision have come together to create platforming perfection. Thanks to loads of collectibles and Tawna, levels remain fresh not only upon your first playthrough but during subsequent attempts as well. And once you’re ready to start speedrunning, it’s remarkably rewarding to master a stage. Plus, each one is gorgeous to boot. Deliciously nostalgic all the while new and teeming with life, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time is going to be the best Bandicoot-based game you’ve ever played. I’ll bet my Wumpas on it.

I had no real expectations for this game, and I still managed to be blindsided by what I discovered. Tough, tiny indie games often try to supplement their size with atmosphere, but the results are often mixed. Here, a small project from a smaller team has brewed a fabulous blend of mechanical finesse and atmospheric splendor. The game is crazy hard, and some of the puzzle elements are pretty obtuse, but I still loved it. If you’re not so impressed by the screenshots and the trailers, take my word for it: Disc Room is so much better than you’re expecting it to be.

Split Fiction is an incredible game. I was surprised how much fun I had with it, especially playing it via local co-op with my son. The Nintendo Switch seemed to handle the game quite well, aside from a minor issue with the main characters’ hair. A word of warning though, the retail version of Split Fiction does not contain a game card, but rather a full game download code. And since it’s a beefy game – around 70 gigs – it’ll take up some valuable real estate on your new Nintendo Switch 2. It’s also worth reiterating once again that this is a co-op only game. You can play locally via split screen or with GameShare, or you can play online via cross-platform play. But if you do not have someone else to play with, you can not play. Despite these minor notes, Split Fiction is an absolute gem of a game that will most definitely be in the Game of the Year conversation.

I’m giving this title full marks for gameplay, originality, engagement and variety.

If you enjoyed any other bullet hell rogue-likes, particularly Nuclear Throne or Binding of Isaac, I can’t recommend Enter the Gungeon enough. It has a few elements that some would consider design flaws, but these are easy to overlook when you step back and look at the whole picture and what is really being offered her: mayhem on a silver platter.

As far as launch titles go, Mario Kart World is a real banger. The races are more chaotic and intense, the world feels huge, and there’s a ton of racers to choose from. Also, the skill ceiling feels higher. I wish the world were as big as it feels, but we’re in pretty early days yet. I’d also love a splitscreen Free Roam mode, but that’s pure wishlist stuff. Buying a new console is always a little intimidating, to be sure. And racing games aren’t for everyone. But if you’re into Mario Kart even a tiny bit, you’d be a fool to pass on Mario Kart World.

If you loved playing MH: World you will most definitely fall in love with MH: Rise, too. All the great stuff you know and love is still in Rise with some smaller tweaks and additions. I had a good time and it was worth waiting for the graphically improved version. My only gripes are that Rise is too easy compared to World (especially the story), yet High-Rank defense missions are imbalanced for solo players, and it doesn’t look as graphically pleasing as World.

Salt & Sanctuary is a brilliant piece of work that apes the Dark Souls franchise in all the right ways while still cutting its own path.

Despite lacking the challenge of other titles in the series, fans will appreciate the nostalgic music and graphics, and enjoy playing through the new dungeons and boss battles that can be easily tackled on the go.

Although it uses the Borderlands 3 engine and reprises several characters from earlier games in the franchise, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands does a great job of separating itself from its brethren. With a focus on high fantasy and cheeky humor that constantly pokes fun at RPG traditions, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands also doesn't stray far from them, at least mechanically. Great writing, pitch perfect acting and frenetic action dominate the game, but exploring the nooks and crannies of the colorful overworld and detailed dungeons is equally satisfying. I had a blast in the Wonderlands and can't wait to see what else the irrepressible Tiny Tina has in store for us.

Overall, Esoteric Ebb does a great job of applying aspects of its influences into its own splendid package. The experience is one that is full of surprises and delightful in its own way. While not for everyone, the game is sure to be memorable for those who enjoy the genre as well as those who simply put in the time to complete a playthrough. With so many variables available even at a surface level, each player’s first playthrough should be unique enough. If you are a CRPG fan at heart, Esoteric Ebb is a no-brainer to give it a shot. If you’re not, there’s still likely something for you if anything about the game resonates with you at all.

Tough, beautiful retro games might seem like they’re everywhere these days. You might be losing track of them all in the midst of this recent deluge. I promise Cyber Shadow is one of the good ones. A delicate balance is struck between challenge and accessibility, leaving you bloodied and eager for more. The art and the music is among the best you’ll see all year long. Finally, the mechanical guts of this game are perfectly tuned. While some players will be rebuked by certain NES-era sensibilities (like the knockback effect), the overall experience is practically sublime. If you’re looking for a Ninja Gaiden send-up that’s been dragged into the 21st century, look no further than Cyber Shadow.

Considering RUINER has already released on several other platforms, Nintendo Switch fans who may have already tried it will be delighted in the seamless transition in visual quality when playing in handheld mode after playing RUINER docked. As a long-time fan of cyberpunk anime, it’s hard not to enjoy RUINER and it stuck with me long after putting the controller down just as Akira stuck with me long after the credits rolled. Reikon Games put all of their eggs in one basket with RUINER and they created a quality experience with it.

A splendid continuation of one of 2017’s finest titles. Though it features minor disappointments, the overall experience is incredibly enjoyable.

Simply put, Survios has done it again. Electronauts is not only one of the most enjoyable music games I’ve ever played, but it serves as a stark reminder of why Survios are some of the very best in the business. I’m still no die-hard of EDM, but the game has certainly opened my eyes to the wide variety of music that exists within the genre and just how fun it can be to manipulate it.

I cannot say enough about The Messenger. The retro side-scrolling action works in both 8-bit and 16-bit. The story is one of the best in any retro game I’ve ever played. The soundtrack is absolute dynamite. There are some nitpicky things here and there mostly in the controls department, but nothing that kills the vibe. The Messenger is a love letter to a bygone era that drops me right back into those wonderful times as soon as I turn on the Switch.

Apartment Story sits apart from most narrative games for me. The big difference is the sim element. Having to do things like shower, cook, smoke, and pee really elevates the experience. Between the plot, the atmosphere, and the mechanics, I’m quite impressed. Although the story is pretty simple, it still draws you in. If you’ve got a few hours free, I highly recommend checking out Apartment Story.

Whether you’re an old fan or a new one this is a great point to jump in for the first time or the fifth time to the Ratchet and Clank franchise. Insomniac has not only reinvigorated a fan favorite but they’ve done it in their signature style. Ratchet and Clank looks great, plays better and is a genuine can’t miss experience on your PlayStation 4.

That's the curious power of the Mario Maker games. They can transform a passive audience member into an active participant. I'm dissecting stages and layouts with brand new vigor. Every design choice is something to be absorbed and digested for later use. Even if you don't fancy yourself a creator, I highly recommend Super Mario Maker 2. You'll be shocked at the subtle yet significant shift in your mindset.

The Yakuza/ Like a Dragon series has become one of the most beloved video game franchises on the planet. They’re a combination of cinematic crime drama, fun third person brawl combat, deep open world exploration, and insanely wacky sidequests and minigames. Yakuza Kiwami is the best version of the first game in the series. There are some changes that aren’t for the better, but overall this is an excellent version of an all-time great video game. If you’ve never played any of the Yakuza games, this new remaster is arguably the best place to start.

Forza Horizon 5 offers something lacking on the PlayStation 5, an open world racer. With over 500 vehicles to customize and race in a humongous world map, along with all the various activities, there is plenty for you to do. It is an arcade racing game that emphasizes fun over reality, and there is nothing wrong with that. It makes a wonderful complementary installment alongside GT 7. The greater the variety of racing games there are for a gamer to play, the better.

Firewatch is a curious experience, and one that has continued to shift my perception of what a game is.

Saints Row is unrealistic in the best way possible, and what it lacks in substance it makes up for in outrageous antics and a priceless, middle-school sense of humor. It’s an absolute riot, and it never seems to draw its boundaries. Steelport is an adult playground for blood, gore and sex, and there’s no consequence for the violence and chaos you can induce. Almost everything about the remaster is fantastic, from the catchy soundtrack to the buttery smooth combat. It’s not a game you’d want your children to play by any means, but for everyone else of appropriate age and discretion, it’s a wicked good time.

Psychonauts in the Rhombus of Ruin is a must-play for PSVR owners. Its ability to keep the player interested in its world and characters is second to none, and the ease of its gameplay mechanics makes interacting with the world a joy. The plethora of environments and odd characters you come across, and the subsequent world-building that takes place, keeps the game from ever getting stale alongside its short runtime. In the Rhombus of Ruin is a masterclass of engaging mechanics and brilliant writing, and it’s got me excited for the future of Psychonauts.

The Yakuza/ Like a Dragon series has become one of the most beloved video game franchises on the planet. They’re a combination of cinematic crime drama, fun third person brawl combat, deep open world exploration, and insanely wacky sidequests and minigames. Yakuza Kiwami 2 is the best version of the second game in the series. Cutting the Sotenbori is a major loss, but the new content more than makes up for its omission. Overall this is an excellent version of an all-time great video game.

Rogue Legacy essentially spawned the roguelite genre and nine years later, its sequel improves the recipe in every way. Rogue Legacy 2 looks fantastic and plays even better, with engaging mechanics and an addictive gameplay loop. While you might not always make progress, you also never feel bored or that the game disrespects your time. Every run is a new experience and often surprising. There are a lot of systems at play, but they generally help Rogue Legacy 2 transcend the limits of the genre and make it endlessly replayable and entertaining.

Exactly what fans of the series will expect it to be. If you have played, and loved, other Monster Hunter games before this one, stop reading reviews and just go buy it. You will love it. If this is your first Monster Hunter game I definitely recommend picking it up.

LawBreakers is downright fun. I can’t wait to get back to slide stabbing my enemies and zooming across maps at breakneck speeds. On top of the stellar gameplay, the game is bursting with personality and a keen sense of humor both of which serve the game in standing apart from its competition in addition to the inventive, gravity-defying combat. LawBreakers injects profound energy into the modern FPS genre, and I can’t wait to see how the meta develops and the game evolves over time with new game modes and characters.

Today, three years after Western release on Xbox One, Yakuza 0 still translates well as an engaging and fun experience, particularly for those who love a good story. The graphics are slightly dated but nothing to be upset about, and only the somewhat foreign notion of the invisible wall cutting off stairways and paths is the only thing to be a bother. This mechanic has been changed over the years so to see it still thriving here immediately dates the game, but none of this is enough to make for a bad experience. If you enjoy the Yakuza franchise or need a jumping off point to get into the franchise, Yakuza 0 is a fantastic place to start.

Road to Gehenna is fun, smart, and a great reason to check out The Talos Principle if you haven’t yet.

Streamlined is a good word to describe Expeditions: Rome. Instead of jamming it full of every feature under the sun, it’s lean and mean. Maybe you are making fewer choices than you would in the latest Pathfinder game, but every one of those choices is meaningful. That philosophy permeates every level of the game, from the combat systems, to the art design, to the music, and the writing. A lot of thought went into every part of this game. RPG fans should honor that by giving just as much thought back to this game.

If you’re a fan of classic RPGs or didn’t have a PC to play Pillars of Eternity when it originally released, pick this up. Pillars is hands down one of the best RPGs I’ve played within the past few years, and the amount of gameplay you can walk through is staggering.

Pokémon Moon is easily one of the best entries into the franchise to date. Never has the Pokémon world felt this immersive. If Pokémon Moon hints to what the future of the franchise has in store, then fans should be more excited than ever.

Total War games spent so much time trying to do more. There are countless clever strategy games out there, but this series always prided itself on having a massive scale. Pharaoh totally changes that formula as it scales down and rethinks the gameplay flow of the series. Everyone has their favorite Total War game (mine for the record is the original Rome Total War). I’m sure that someone out there will be quite unhappy with some of the Total War changes. But from where I sit as a long-time player, Pharaoh is a total blast, and has me more excited for the future of the series than ever before.

What more can we say about this upgraded version of A Plague Tale? It was a great experience when it came out in 2019, and it still is two years later. It is not made better in any major way, but it cannot be improved without fundamentally changing the game, which I am thankful it did not. If you have not played this game, you are doing yourself a disservice.

When I finished Call of the Sea, I couldn’t help but smile. It was such an incredible journey with an intriguing story and a well-thought-out ending. From start to finish, with the exception of a couple of frustrating puzzles, I truly enjoyed this game. Considering it’s is launching on Xbox Game Pass, there is absolutely no reason for Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One gamers to not give this gem a try. The sheer amount of love and care that went into crafting this world should be the new standard that all devs strive to achieve. I can’t wait to see what Out of the Blue have in store for us next, and I truly hope we’ll return to the world of Call of the Sea in a future title.

Bravely Default is so full of old time good RPG fun that you could literally shake a stick at it and it wouldn’t change a thing given how much quality is in this game.

It does exactly what a sequel should do as it retains the roots of an already great game while expanding out into new exciting territory that still feels natural.

Despite the odd issues I ran into with the game, be it performance related, or gameplay related (mobs of enemies don’t always make a game harder FromSoftware), Dark Souls 3 is a gargantuan step up from Dark Souls 2 in terms of design...From Software has included a lot for players to mess around with, and between the various armor sets, locations, weapons and enemies to get acquainted with, Dark Souls 3 is one behemoth of a game that could stand at the top of the entire series in terms of quality.

Silent Hill f is the entry fans have been waiting for since 2004’s The Room. The shift from small-town America to rural Japan gives the game a distinct identity, allowing the developers to craft a unique experience that still captures the spirit of the series. Ryukishi07’s storytelling shines, with your journal steadily filling with information and mature themes explored in subtle yet impactful ways. While combat has seen improvements over its predecessors, it still pales in comparison to the game’s atmosphere and puzzle design. After two long decades, and a remake of a genre classic, Silent Hill is finally back.