Dispatch is an absolute whale of a time. The superhero workplace shenanigans are compelling, funny, beautifully written and brought to life by exceptional performances and some of the finest writing the medium can offer. The branching narrative and impactful choices are always felt, even if some of the outcomes are a little predictable or slightly too black and white. Still, this is a narrative adventure that Telltale fans will not want to miss — in fact, Dispatch establishes itself at the pinnacle of the genre.

Absolum earns its place as one of the best beat ‘em ups available, with its tight combat and beautiful visuals, and the roguelite elements add enough variety to keep things engaging, even if they aren’t as varied as they could be. No, Absolum doesn’t push boundaries or redefine expectations. It simply delivers a rock-solid, highly polished take on a classic formula that’s consistently fun, especially with a friend - whether that’s an elf or a dwarf.

Persona 3 Reload does much to bring it up to modern sensibilities with a well optimized PC port in most cases, but more could have be done to shake off more of the baggage from the original release. The new menu systems and battle features carried over from more recent titles elevates the game the most and the new voice cast does an admirable job with largely the same script. The pacing still feels held back by the original story design and the main concept of Tartarus, but as a remake of what many consider a PlayStation 2 classic, it is a recommendation for JRPG fans.

Colors 3D is no doubt one of the best applications to grace the eShop and if you have an interest in drawing and art in general, you'll love it.

Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition is arguably the game Capcom should have always released. While the original was a powerhouse in every sense of the word, its pristine quality simply meant any imperfections were all the more noticeable. Vergil's return rounds out an already tight cast of characters playable with some of the most in-depth combat in the franchise. Turbo mode picks up the pace to challenge a player's physical and mental reflexes on every level. Legendary Dark Knight pushes the power of the PlayStation 5 by rendering large swarms of enemies on-screen, all for the player to kill. Devil May Cry 5 was already one of Capcom's best titles in years, and this Special Edition only elevates it.

Easy to use controls, entertaining characters, fulfilling all the quests and fish list, beating personal bests at the mini games - all add to the high replay value that A Short Hike provides. It's a game to relax with before bed, or when life stresses need a calming outlet to reset one's inner harmony. Helping out illegal campers has never been so fun!

Monster Hunter Wilds is a fantastic time through and through. It might not hit the right balance for all players due to the move to being more story-focused with pacing and things, but for those who like it, there is a ton of fun to be had here. A successful and innovative way to change up the typical Monster Hunter formula and a great stepping stone to finding the perfect balance. A heartily recommended action title where the monsters are the real stars of the show!

Tetris Effect Connected is one big psychedelic trip that Xbox owners were previously missing out on. There is such a variety in themes, music, and game modes that it is unbelievable that developers still find a way to innovate, iterate and make, ostensibly, a puzzle game from the 1980s feel new and desirable to play. There is enough depth here in the multiplayer modes to retain the attention of Tetris players beyond the relatively short Journey and Effects modes, albeit many will chase their own tail to better their rankings and high scores. At the time of writing Tetris Effect Connected is available on Game Pass Ultimate so there is no real excuse to not give this a chance.

After two decades of racing, the Mushroom Kingdom crew have come together in a package that ticks a lot of positive boxes - tight controls, exceptional course designs, brilliant music and plenty of scope for high-octane online/local races and battles. Quite simply, Mario Kart 8 is absolutely sublime and the best overall installment im the series so far.

For all its drawbacks in terms of relying on the gamer to actually put in the effort to enjoy the experience, Super Mario Maker is a fresh approach to the old 'RPG Maker' mould, taking the key elements that any 'build-a-game' title requires and then making sure that there are sufficient in-built goodies to give those less inclined to while away the hours making new content a sense of value for money.

Final Fantasy XVI represents another step toward the event horizon of the branding's identity utterly collapsing. It isn't a bad game, but it fails to connect on a deeper and emotional level than what its past successes achieved. This is largely due to a weak supporting cast that lacks presence and a melodramatic lead who rarely gets chances to have any fun. For all of its faults, Final Fantasy XV attempted to throw whatever it could at players to create a varied experience. Final Fantasy XVI has a few tricks, and they're action and cinematic set-pieces. After about 20 hours, it becomes tiring, and after that the next 20 hours become utterly mind-numbing. It wouldn't be so bad if the fighting were deeper and the level design more fun.

Prince of Persia is back, Baybee! The Lost Crown is not only a fantastic new entry to the series but one of the best Ubisoft titles in a long time (sorry FarCry and Assassin's Creed!). It's exciting to see the Prince return in such a polished title and it easily stands shoulder to shoulder with The Sands of Time. The adventure of Sargon is one to remember. A heartily recommended title to all who want a fun 2D action adventure!

Like a sharp set of kitty claws, Mewgenics perfectly scratches the itch of ‘just one more round’ with an intriguing level of strategic depth, but one that never feels overwhelming. The randomised nature of things means it’s the kind of experience that always stays fresh, and yet at the same time is super easy to pick up and play, before realising several hours have passed. Add to that a killer art style that pays homage to McMillen’s previous entries, but has its own unique flavour thanks to the collection of cats, and a kick-ass soundtrack that makes those brutal boss battles worth playing again and again for the battle theme alone, and it is far from an outrageous bet to expect Mewgenics to sweep up a raft of awards and plaudits over the coming year and beyond.

Zero Escape: Virtue's Last Reward may lack the initial punch delivered by its predecessor, but still brings an engrossing tale to the table, with a story that players will have to explore completely before finally putting the game back on the shelf. With a smattering of smart puzzles tying everything together, it will take something truly special to trump this superb visual novel experience.

Hyper Light Drifter: Special Edition is a must-own for anyone who enjoys a quality action title. Fans of 2D Zelda games will adore this for how it pays lip-service without being derivative. Heart Machine has triumphed by focusing on what people loved about action-adventures, while refining combat and challenge. In the beginning, some might be overwhelmed by the lack of direction; but those who dare to actually play will be greatly rewarded. The Switch Special Edition extras are neat, but the meat and potatoes that make up the sum of Hyper Light Drifter is still what makes it so great in the first place.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps definitely has its downfalls, from a lack of dungeons and performance hiccups to abilities that needed to be fleshed-out more, but comparing this to all of the amazing feats that it reaches, these gripes feel nothing more than nit-picks in an otherwise wholly enjoyable and immersive experience. While it may not meet every expectation set by the almost perfect Ori and the Blind Forest, it's nonetheless a worthy successor and is easily one of the best metroidvanias on the market right now.

This is one of the best strategy games in years, with engrossing combat and a fantastic story. The difficulty is almost perfect, making the battles rewarding without being trivial and players may find themselves actively seeking out more fights. It is entertaining from top to bottom.

The Delicious Last Course lives up to its name by bringing Cuphead to a truly magnificent conclusion. The DLC is packed with a generous amount of content that'll keep players coming back for more. Ms. Chalice's play style is enough to add hours of replay value on its own, but the fact she's rounded out by over half a dozen new bosses, unique parry challenges, new weapons to play around with, and a lengthy side quest dedicated to upgrading a charm makes it even better. Inkwell Isle Four is small, but the DLC makes the most of its space and doesn't restrict new content to the one setting. Every weapon, charm, and even Ms. Chalice herself can be used in the three main Isles once they're unlocked. With so much quality content on tap, Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course sets a new standard for DLC.

It's hard to find something to complain about in Shovel Knight because it does everything it sets out to do perfectly - to an impeccable standard.

But the eclectic mix of a new take on traditional RPG values, thoroughly modern settings, a funk-filled soundtrack and a completely unique battle mechanic pays off considerably, making the venture one that should not be missed by fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

If there are still any fans of high impact videogame face-punching left out there that are yet to try out Injustice 2, then there really is no better time to jump on board and pick up a copy of Legendary Edition now. Solo and social brawlers alike will find plenty to love with NetherRealm's dark journey into the heart of the DC Universe, whether it be the compelling campaign, the expanded hero/villain roster, the addictive Multi-verse events, the extensive raft of competitive modes, or its unmatched level of character customisation.

Activision have continued their revival of 'old-meets-new' with the latest Tony Hawk instalment. For all intents and purposes, it retains the charm and thrills from the original while adding on new quality of life bells and whistles. It hits the nostalgia notes whilst also completely revamping the stages, soundtrack, player models and almost everything else imaginable. This is now the definitive method to enjoy the first two games in this iconic franchise.

Despite its subpar Destruction mode, 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a delight. The story will captivate the minds of those interested in pulpy sci-fi adventures, and the gorgeous art style and compelling script are enough to warrant putting up with some tedious RTS battle sequences. On the whole, this is a title easy to recommend for those who enjoy sci-fi and visual novels, as the strengths of 13 Sentinels more than makeup for its weaknesses.

Fez is a very easy-going experience for the most part, but it is also very capable of presenting a diabolical challenge to anyone looking for one. The descent to an otherworldly nightmare glitch-world is something that is not often done in video games, yet it makes a lot of sense; especially for something that focuses on a theme of perception and dimension. While the creator of Fez may have his issues, his game has very few and is very pleasant to play.

At a glance Pokémon X and Pokémon Y did seem like a standard leap in numbers and a new look, but upon diving into the new world, it's more than just a pair of new Pokémon games.

It seems that repetition is winning the day, so if at first you don't succeed try try again. The complexities and permutations in Deathloop are initially overwhelming and confusing, the intro attempts to explain so much by way of plot, mechanics and characterisation in a very short space of time. However, work past this point and the fun begins, with a sense of exploration and an arsenal of weapons and attacks making combat feel very rewarding. The story, despite at times being told through messages and text is well voiced acted, despite the incessant need to swear. Pulling off stealth kills or killing one of the eight main characters after figuring out how to infiltrate their plans makes players feel they have outwitted their computer counterpart. If there was one title to buy on PlayStation 5 right now that is truly next gen, then make sure Deathloop is at the top of that list.

In very much a Metroidvania move, backtracking back to the start of the review with the question, "Is the new adventure worth the wait?" The answer is a resounding yes. Nintendo and MercurySteam have pulled off a sequel that is classic, essential Metroid with a sprinkling of the new; controls, visual direction and a terrifying new threat that sends a space-aged shiver through the spine. Metroid Dread is the evolution to how side-scrolling Metroid should feel and the conclusion to something truly special. A thrilling chapter for players who have been looking up to the stars for decades, and a compelling tale for adventurers new to the series!

A comprehensive mission-driven campaign, boundless tools and tiles and additional themes serve up a tonne of potential for creators. Super Mario Maker 2 offers a canvas to create a truly authentic Super Mario Bros. experience.

While it is annoying that Bloody Palace mode is not available day one, it is coming as a free update on April 1st. Capcom has proved this gen that they are truly the best at 3D action games. They took some bold risks with the style and realistic flavour, and it pays off by taking on this new look that has never been seen before in any videogame. Even spectators are going to be extremely entertained by the spectacle that it Devil May Cry 5. Everything feels so fresh, and the advancements in the controls and fluidity in animation makes playing this refined masterpiece so hard to put down.

Batman: The Enemy Within - Episode 5: Same Stitch is phenomenal storytelling, and while it highlights a major drawback for story-driven games, it does manage to make decisions truly matter. While the endings may not be what you feel they should have been, replaying through is the best option to rebuild the narrative in new and exciting ways.

Monster Hunter Rise is a triumph. It may not have the shiny 4k HDR visuals of its predecessor but the more modest, design-driven visuals are a delight to behold. Gameplay is as solid as ever and features much more freeform with the new traversal tools putting it above many of the other games in the series. The new setting and characters create a much more involved scenario full of charm and fun Japanese influences. For fans of monster hunter this is an absolute no-brainer but for new players, this is a fantastic place to start. Not only will Rise teach everything there is to know about its systems, but it is one of the purest fun experiences currently available on Nintendo Switch.

Despite its flaws in narrative presentation, Fire Emblem Fates: Revelation is far and away the definitive experience for people who have fallen in love with the characters of the trilogy.

Everything that Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door entails is everything that is desired in this series - turn-based timed button battles, completely original characters in familiar and new species, witty dialogue, and an emphasis on story and greater lore. This is a unique adventure full of fun and clever gameplay ideas, offering a medium-length RPG that will satisfy Mario fans eager to see more than stomping on koopas and - in the case of the more recent Paper Mario titles - repetitive battle systems and generic characters. If all goes well, fingers crossed that the success of this game can pave the way for a brand-new entry in the same vein as this one - ideally without a paper joke in sight.

Monster Hunter: World still has all the complexity expected from this series, but it dishes it out in much more palatable chunks than usual. It's still got a frightening amount of depth, but it feels manageable in a way that few in the series have pulled off before. Players may still feel a little lost from time to time, but a little guidance from series vets or other friends can drastically reduce the growing pains new players will likely experience. On top of all that, this is one of the best-feeling titles the series has had to date; so saddle up with some friends, and explore all the New World has to offer.

The Eternal Collection refines the very best of the series by including all past updates, and through its savage yet extravagant gameplay, ensures that there is a huge amount of replayability to be had.

SteamWorld Dig 2 is no mere sequel by numbers, instead taking everything that was loved (and critiqued) about the original and building upon it considerably in every way possible. The sense of exploration is phenomenal, and those willing to dig deep will find the world down in the mines has so much to offer that a good 10-15 hours can easily be spent uncovering all of the secrets before even bothering to finish the main story. This almost out-Metroids Nintendo's venerable series - that is how good Image & Form's latest adventure is.

Not only is it enjoyable and fully featured both at 1080p60 in docked mode and 720p60 in handheld mode, but it is obviously way more enjoyable on the go than the version available for smart devices due to real built-in controls but also, for the first time, portable two-player mode on the same device with split Joy-Con, which happens to work really well. It is still as challenging a romp as it ever was, but for anyone remotely interested by the genre, it will prove indispensable.

Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire is a lesson in sequel creation. Instead of making some slight alterations, or simply changing the setting, this smooths all the rough edges of the first game, while keeping the plot, writing, and role-playing aspect in top form. While not without flaws, and although the seafaring business is not equally awesome as the rest of the experience, this is, without a single doubt one of the best Dungeons & Dragons-inspired RPGs of the year.

This isn't just a sequel. The demons are far more aggressive, their legions have been reinforced with some new baddies, and the Slayer has become an even more dangerous opponent, with more ways at his disposal to destroy everything on his path to the invaders. This almost feels like an entirely new experience, as every single aspect of its predecessor has seen an upgrade or revision. The concept of "push-forward combat" is even better this time around, forcing you to be in the moment every moment. In fact, the only real flaw here, if you can call it a flaw, is how excruciatingly brutal, remorseless, and chaotic DOOM Eternal can be. This simply makes everything else feel dull in comparison…

Yet another solid addition to the growing roster of great WiiWare games, Art of Balance proves its makers' pedigree yet again, with a solid concept backed by great physics, sublime music and striking visuals.

It's almost incredible how well Cave Story has managed to stand the test of time. It isn't a particularly old title, but its limited resources and one-man development team seem like a recipe for a dated entry. Instead, it manages to justify its existence in any given generation with each re-release. The Island has yet to lose its lustre, the characters their charm, and the level design that sweet balance of difficulty, which makes defeating a challenging boss or getting through a brutal platforming section all the more satisfying. Beneath the surface lies a poignant narrative about the consequences of war that takes itself surprisingly seriously without compromising the overall whimsical mood. Cave Story+ isn't just a good game in 2017; it's downright impressive.

A predictable, but engaging story mode has added some real shine to the F1 franchise, alongside the addition of two player career mode adding more options for players. Each iteration of F1 has gone from strength to strength, and F1 2021 is a great representation of the sport, from realistic presentation, great graphical details on the cars, tracks that feel authentic, and the return of My Team. Fans of F1 who want to keep up to date with the sport and have the latest team liveries and driver rosters, will be totally in love with this.

Well, we could go on and on, except, to be honest, we'd rather get back to playing it than talking about it. After all, we just need a few more bells to pay off our house and start on an expansion. So we'll just say that Animal Crossing New Leaf is the best of its franchise and highly recommend it.

On 3DS eShop, while doing away with the motion controls, it manages to remain the cool one-on-one first-person brawler that it already was on WiiWare and uses the 3D effect marvellously

FILMECHANISM feels like a classic puzzle platformer at its finest. It is impressive how many clever and genuinely difficult puzzles are in it just based around one simple mechanic; it truly pushes the concept's boundaries in the best of ways. Each world adds a new gimmick that makes the puzzles more complex and challenging, and the difficulty curve is done in such a way that almost anyone can beat the main game if they put their mind to it. While some quality-of-life features could improve the game, what is already present is a great experience and is a snapshot worth remembering.

Frostpunk is quite simply one of the best city-building experiences on the PlayStation 4 with a highly detailed narrative written for four huge campaigns. The sadness in there only being four campaigns is a true testament to the team at 11 Bit Studios, as they have crafted such a memorable experience, with gut-wrenching decisions at every turn. The savagery of the game can have long-lasting effects that can carry into the subsequent play-throughs, as the memories of what arose from making previous decisions can sway future decisions down other pathways. For those who wish to experience a more laid-back 'Sim City' like experience, then this title may not be the right title to jump into. However after experiencing this, it will be easy to feel anxious to see whatever the team behind it has in store next.

The portability of the Nintendo Switch makes this undoubtedly the best way to play Stardew Valley. Unless you are really keen on modding the game, the combination of easy portability and excellent controls makes this a staple in any well-rounded Switch library. It's still the same great farm simulator it was on PC - robust, full of secrets, and comes with an inescapable charm that will keep pulling you back in, season after season.

Stormblood is simply amazing. Not much more can be said about it. With a very well-crafted story, some tense and epic battles, two new classes, and wonderful zones, saying anything else would ruin so much of the expansion and what makes it great.

Not much tweaking was necessary when bringing back this classic, but the addition of high-quality voice acting elevates Final Fantasy Tactics to another level entirely, with a narrative that engages from beginning to end. Coupled with some of the finest character customisation in the series, this is an essential play for fans that have fallen out of love with Final Fantasy following the latest numbered entries.

Blue Prince is a quietly captivating mystery that rewards patience, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Its shifting mansion, step‑based progression, and intricate room‑specific rules create an experience that feels both unpredictable and purposeful, offering a rare blend of surreal atmosphere and thoughtful design. It is a game that lingers in the mind long after the day has been reset, inviting players to return again and again in search of the truths hidden within its walls.

Dead Cells surpasses expectations regarding gameplay and destroys the developmental cap for pixel art games. It not only reinvents a genre that has seen little diversity in the last decade, it does so in a way that encourages everyone to invest time to improve and progress. The balance between permanent upgrades and complete wipe-out upon death is perfect, as it will never feel too discouraging to reset due to the optimism that the next run will see a further dive into the world.

Quake's remastered port to Nintendo Switch is proof that big video game companies don't need to treat their fans with disrespect when it comes to bringing back old classics. The level of content for such a small price is unmatched, and that is forgetting a whole new expansion pack was created for this release, too. The fact that everything can be completed cooperatively in multiplayer means less skilled players can enjoy getting through with the help of others, and then there are deathmatches for some of the best arena FPS action around. Well done to all involved in this.

Mediocre world design, poor pacing, and plotting that fails to fully capture what made the original so special, it's hard not to walk away feeling like this isn't a disappointment across the board. At the same time, the franchise's combat has never been better, and Materia offers an incredibly rewarding amount of party customisation alongside weapon levelling. While the story on a whole might not hit all the right notes, the script is extremely well written and the dialogue has never been better. More importantly, the depth present within the battle system pairs wonderfully with a challenging, but very fair difficulty curve, making for some truly spectacular boss fights. Final Fantasy VII Remake will never be held in the same esteem as Final Fantasy VII - and for good reason - but damn good combat will keep action fans coming back to this RPG for years to come.

Game Freak has worked its socks off to ensure that Pokémon Black / White not only live up to the standards set by past entries in the mainline series, but have included a wealth of extra content to entice newcomers to the world of Pocket Monsters.

With Dragon Quest IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies, Square Enix and Level-5 have delivered what is without doubt one of the most stunning RPG experiences not only on the Nintendo DS, but in existence, full stop.

At a glance Pokémon X and Pokémon Y did seem like a standard leap in numbers and a new look, but upon diving into the new world, it's more than just a pair of new Pokémon games.

Visually stunning and difficult in all the right ways, Cuphead is a testament to the importance of thought out game design. Every facet of the run and gun parts is built around giving the audience an experience unique to the videogame medium. Although this borrows quite heavily from a very specific era of animation history, its aesthetic goes beyond homage, coupling masterfully with gameplay that encourages mastery on every level. With some of the best designed boss fights this generation, a beautifully rich animation style, and impeccably fine-tuned controls, Cuphead stands out as not only one of the best indie titles on the Nintendo Switch, but one of strongest releases this generation, period.

Judging purely on the current state of Street Fighter V, with the new additions and inclusion of the season 1 and 2 characters in the Arcade Edition, it is most certainly one of the must-own fighting games on the market right now. The arcade mode is enough to warrant anyone picking up this game, even if it has arrived far too late. The FM changes are unfortunate, but the biggest peeve is that Arcade Edition itself is an extremely limited package, since everything here, barring the previous DLC characters, are free updates for owners of the original. The least Capcom could have done is put a few extra costumes and stages in there, because otherwise, the only reason to pick this up is if you don’t already have SFV and want a cheap way of buying the game and its first two character packs. SFV will have plenty more years in it, but being so tight and not turning this release into a current ultimate edition is disappointing, even if it’s not surprising.

Home to an incredibly immersive world and the best combat on the Nintendo Switch, Astral Chain is a must-play not only for fans of the genre, but the medium as a whole. It is a title that understands the importance of balancing gameplay, story, and style without ever sacrificing substance for anything else. It's more accessible than most PlatinumGames titles without ever having to compromise its core mechanics. The slower start may alienate potential fans but sticking with Astral Chain leads to a surprisingly thematic script, incredibly deep combat, and what might be Platinum's best game to date.

The biggest complaint could simply be that the developers didn't update the character sprites in a similar fashion to the rest of the game. In a landscape where remakes sometimes stray too far or cling too tightly to nostalgia, Star Ocean: The Second Story R finds an impressive balance. It stands as a definitive way to experience a JRPG classic—approachable for first-timers while packed with secrets and satisfying systems for veterans. With its blend of modern polish and heartfelt homage to the original, this is one adventure that shouldn’t be missed by fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

For a PS5 owner desperate for a 2D fighter to add to their collection, this is a no brainer. With a long history of 2D fighters in this reviewer's back catalogue Guilty Gear Strive has gained a place in the top tier pantheon of the genre. Fantastic graphics, excellent gameplay that has the perfect balance of easy to pick up, difficult to master and some real thought put into the obligatory online mode mean it is likely to remain unbeaten for a long time to come. Maybe until the next entry in the series is released. Brilliant Brawling.

Rarely has such a well designed and nightmarishly difficult game on Wii been found, and it comes to fill the gap for those who love a good challenge -- and a tough one this truly is.

Kathy Rain, the original creation of Clifftop Games, isn't just a "very good indie point-and-click that captures the magic of the classics." This IS a classic. From the great puzzles, and how you are "guided" towards solving them, feeling like an investigator while at it, to the deeply engrossing story, strong atmosphere, and even stronger main character, it's easy to see that this is one of the best of its kind - and now it's even better. Kathy Rain: Director's Cut improves it in all sorts of ways, making it the clear choice between the two versions, even for those who have already played the first instalment.

After 20 years of memorable Pokémon experiences, Game Freak has brought out something that feels completely new, while still delivering on the core Pokémon experiences people crave.

It is a complete success on a pure technical level in terms of performance on the hybrid console but the user experience could have been slightly better thought out when it comes to the implementation of the always-online functionality. Finally, the lack of more fighters to choose from, with much of the roster relegated to being paid DLC, will leave people with an impression that the publisher felt a bit too greedy.

There is nothing out there that plays or feels quite like Pikmin. This might be part of the reason why it hasn't "exploded more in sales," as Shigeru Miyamoto put it in a July Nintendo Ask the Developer interview, pertaining to, though not directly, a little bit of that "difficulty" he describes. It could also be posited that there is a factor of abstraction to being the sole agent in control of every facet of one's own fate (a factor that was attributed erroneously to The Last Guardian as a criticism, too), preventing it from mass appeal. It's not helped by the fact that Pikmin 4 has been put out at a time relatively close to Nintendo's behemoth The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and an otherwise already hugely stacked year for video games. Make no mistake about it, though, Pikmin 4 is one of the best video game releases of 2023.

While it would be easy to look at Final Fantasy XVI from certain angles and proclaim something looks rough when looked at as a single package and a sum of its whole, this is a fantastic game. The cinematic flair, crazy action combat and extremely involved story with a nice side dish of world building make this a game worth playing. This is likely to appeal to fans of most character action games but also to those who just want another cool Final Fantasy to get lost in. Absolutely get this game.

Guacamelee! 2 feels just as good as its predecessor overall. Some of the hardest sections can be even more frustrating than the hardest challenges found in the original, but this is somewhat counterbalanced by the fact that it does streamline a lot of things that were more complicated than they really needed to be.

One third bullet hell, one third shoot 'em up, and one third roguelike, Enter the Gungeon is a magnificent blend of three genres that go together impressively well. The wide variety of guns keeps each playthrough feeling fresh, regardless of the character chosen, and the diverse enemy design is sure to keep players on their toes as they force their way through the Gungeon. There are some issues that rise from the randomness of it all, par for the course for a roguelike, but the fluid gameplay, massive weapon cache, and bullet-heavy atmosphere make Enter the Gungeon one incredibly endearing experience.

Creativity flows throughout two of gaming’s best adventures, finally available on modern hardware and looking wonderful on Switch systems. There is so much sublime platforming here when considering the amount inventiveness spread across both Super Mario Galaxy titles, with each offering something for absolutely everyone. There are some niggles here and there, but when the moment-to-moment gameplay is so consistently enjoyable, it is easy to brush over minor grievances. This is a collection every Nintendo fan needs to own.

This is one of the most engrossing experiences you will find on the market at this time, and the game is still so addictive, so well-formed and lengthy as ever, only with the refinements of modern games slotted in seamlessly.

For the new generation who never even held a Game Boy (or picked it up in Virtual Console), this is a chance to experience this gaming masterpiece in its best form to date.

There are myriad good reasons why Marvel's Spider-Man is the best-selling and highest-rated Spider-Man title in years. While it has a few glaring flaws, they pale in comparison to all of the things the team at Insomniac got right. A well-acted, strong story serves as the backbone for an experience that just plain feels right for Spider-Man, and fans and newcomers alike won't be disappointed by this trip to the Spider-verse.

Okami is a truly beautiful game and it's in its best possible form with this absolutely stunning 4K remaster. Okami HD is something truly special; the sort of game that is still remembered fondly years later by those who play it, and wonderful in every aspect. While remasters often get a bad rap, classics like this deserve the chance to get more sales - especially if it increases the chance of a sequel - not to mention more players get to experience an amazing and memorable adventure. Combine this quality with the low asking price here and this is a no-brainer. Buy this game. Love this game.

It may not live up to Super Mario Galaxy in some people’s eyes, yet when it comes to good, old fashioned platform action, Shigeru Miyamoto & Co. have conjured up quite the treat.

The most advanced, most detailed and deepest Pokémon experience to date can now be found in Pokémon Sun and Moon.

It looks and sounds wonderful, it feels great when you play it, it's tons of fun and full of surprises.

There's something that definitely seems to be missing from Fire Emblem Fates: Conquest. The challenge is certainly there, but it brings its own sacrifices, as well.

Skylanders SuperChargers is the best in the series yet and proves that LEGO Dimensions and Disney Infinity still have a yardstick to reach.

If you consider yourself a Final Fantasy fan, there is every reason to invest in Theatrhythm Final Bar Line. Rammed to bursting with songs that have helped to make the series what it is, there are tracks for everybody in here, with plenty of accessibility options to tinker with to suit all levels of player, including a fun RPG-lite mechanic that can be explored for extra incentive to replay favourite tunes. The DLC is vast and off-putting, but there is so much in the base game to tackle that it can be safely ignored.

Zack & Wiki definitely has the potential to be a rip-roaringly fun series on Wii if Capcom next time chooses to flesh out the story more and refine the control system even more.

This line of 3D Classics has been a great tribute to retro gaming, so far serving up 3D enhanced versions of some of the finest titles in SEGA's large catalogue of wonderful games, and, naturally, gives new fans a try at discovering them for the first time.

Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom perfectly bridges the gap between old and new, delivering the same style and charm of games from the Master System and Mega Drive, but including the same style of platforming and puzzle solving that have made modern indie titles stand out from the crowd. Essentially, it has captured the heart and soul of the original, and given it a breath of fresh life.

Hitman 3 succeeds in every respect by being a fantastic ending to an already great series. It's also a joy to see that IO Interactive ensured players would be able to slip right back into the shoes of a veteran killer,but didn't rest on their laurels by not offering anything new. Although the touches of permanent shortcuts and new gadgets may seem small, once implemented it's hard to imagine playing without them as they integrate seamlessly into mission stories. Add to that the same freedom to approach a hit that the series is famous for, as well as ensuring every playground looks absolutely stunning and its clear that even without good friends, Agent 47 really does find the perfect blend.

It may not be completely flawless, but The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is definitely one of the DS 'must own' titles of 2009.

SteamWorld Heist is a decent length when factoring in the wide range of difficulty settings, and the fact you will be playing some missions a few times. Essentially, this is a well-made squad-based strategy that gives a choice: go in guns blazing…. or go in gun blazing. While the game is heavy on the tactics, it's never heavy on subtlety. It's nice it wastes little time, but it also suffers from a lack of diversity because of it. It's thus probably better for those looking for a game to play on/off rather than binge over.

Aside from minor mechanical inconsistency across both mainline titles, Overcooked! All You Can Eat is a lovingly-crafted remaster of two lovingly-crafted experiences, complete with their respective DLC packs at a mouthwatering price. There's never been a better way to enjoy the Overcooked! series and all the multiplayer carnage it offers. As a party game it is undeniably better when played with friends so bear that in mind, but for those hungry for some local co-op action, the genre is very much alive and well with this filled-to-the-brim hotpot of cheffing action.

This is one of the most engrossing experiences you will find on the market at this time, and the game is still so addictive, so well-formed and lengthy as ever, only with the refinements of modern games slotted in seamlessly.

Little King's Story brings together a mix of game styles and genres, and blends them all perfectly.

Game Freak has worked its socks off to ensure that Pokémon Black / White not only live up to the standards set by past entries in the mainline series, but have included a wealth of extra content to entice newcomers to the world of Pocket Monsters.

The Mass Effect trilogy is a personal all-time favourite of this here reviewer, and Legendary Edition comes highly recommended to anyone that enjoys sci-fi narratives, regardless of preferred genres or experience. As games, each has its faults and glitches that can't be glossed over today, but this package as a whole is a gripping adventure that takes players all over the Milky Way galaxy, meeting fascinating characters and alien races, of whom many will stick long in the memory. The lore will always be the absolute reason for anyone to give this a try, and it's highly likely that no matter the issues, the story and crew will be more than enough to keep you going to see this grand adventure right to the end. Unfortunately, one too many complaints are difficult to ignore and hold it back from being the remaster this deserved to be.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is an FPS that makes a ton of good to great decisions, but also a handful of poor ones. Tightly crafted gameplay is marred by adherence to genre conventions, and the narrative gets off to a slow start as the game decides what it wants to be. However, neither of those are enough to drag this down too much, as it is simply too well put together and has more than enough personality and fun to poke through the layer of seriousness draped over the first parts of the campaign. What is left is a game that can stand as a very fine example of its genre, if not quite a groundbreaking one.

A lesser game would have broken away from the standard Metroidvania fare by referencing Super Metroid and playing out like a 2D Metroid would be expected to. It wouldn't be bad, but it wouldn't be particularly special, either. Axiom Verge is not a lesser game, though. It strictly pays tribute to the original NES Metroid, but not once does it do anything with its premise that feels derivative. Any instance of homage is quickly subverted and thrust down a path all of its own. Solutions to puzzles are genuinely creative and the overworld is filled with more optional weapons and upgrades than actually necessary for a normal playthrough, offering an incredibly rewarding, explorative experience. Challenging, creative, and endlessly endearing, Axiom Verge: Multiverse Edition is the best take on the Metroidvania genre in years.

OlliOlli World is one of the finest skateboarding games around. The gameplay is fun, intuitive and simple enough for newcomers to enjoy while having complex layers that will have skate veterans everywhere grinding to master.

WadjetEye Games has done it again! Unavowed does not disappoint at all, relying on the tried-and-tested formula that has worked so well in the past, but now taking that and polishing it beyond belief, and then expertly blending in themes from popular titles, sprinkling a whole host of fresh ideas into the pot to make for one of the most engaging experiences of the year.

It is fun for the first few minutes, but having to always drive through the same courses in order to reach the different courses can be very tiring.

It will be an interesting exercise to compare this to the Resident Evil 4 remake and Metroid Prime Remastered, such stylistically or thematically similar titles released within the same quarter, as this being the first out the gate has set a high watermark early on into the year. It wins on its top tier presentation alone, and although it can sometimes feel like that's the main contributor that's modernising the experience, there's a great novelty and appeal to some of its, should we say, relics to game design of the past. Chiefly, relics that are of a focused, directed single-player experience that don't overstay their welcome and don't manipulate the player beyond the experience itself. Let's see how long that one lasts when we're drowning in remakes, shall we?

Owlboy is impressive if anything for its amazing visuals and animation. The gameplay gets by thanks to it being competent enough, but won't really inspire anyone. This is a pretty straightforward 2D action-adventure game that does a bit more heart than the average. Do not expect much replay value since it seems the developers poured their heart and soul into the main story and could not spare much more to have side content or any diversions to mix up the action. Also, do not go in expecting a metroidvania, because it is not.