There's a fair bit to like about Diablo IV — best-in-class sound design, intriguing character classes, fantastic graphics and occasionally addictive gameplay all feel like the series in its prime. However, even the best parts are let down by an undercurrent of frustrating design choices: the cynical inclusion of a Battle Pass, a bloated open world, repetitive mission structure and progression that too often feels meaningless cast a long shadow that let the latest Diablo title down. Future Seasons may refine what's here, but many of its issues sadly feel baked into the core experience. All but the most die-hard fans may wish to wait for a substantial sale on this one.

The best Need for Speed title in a long time, Unbound has such a fun gameplay loop and funky style that it's hard to put down. It has a hard difficulty and slightly odd game feel, but most players of racing games will have a blast here and probably fall in love with the chaotic and frantic police chases. Pick this up!

Although sometimes a little rough, Alone in the Dark is a fantastic remake/reimagining that brings the series back in line with its most interesting events and timeline. This is essential for players looking for a semi-old-school survival horror title that has excellent world design, acting and a host of interesting mysteries to solve. A really great return to form!

Persona 3 Reload is surprisingly addictive and the story itself very intriguing. Sadly, it is not possible to play as the female protagonist or enjoy the expanded story from F.E.S, but updated graphics, battle mechanics and sound all help to still bring this title to greatness. Anyone who enjoyed the original will enjoy this remake, and new players picking it up will surely be drawn in quickly, as well.

There is an abundance of things to love in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. It successfully provides players with an excellent linear critical path and a ton of side content which some players might call bloat, though it is entirely ignorable. It has absolutely insane production value, housing one of the most insane and interesting Final Fantasy VII stories so far, which strikes a perfect balance between incredibly silly, self-referential and very serious. It has a couple of slight technical issues but is otherwise the perfect follow-up to part one and the perfect setup for part three. Absolutely recommended!

One again WWE 2K24 is a positive move in the right direction. With fun gameplay mechanics and new match types that leave the door wide open for hilarity, this remains a no-doubt purchase for fans not only enjoying what is being put out weekly by WWE, but also thanks to the focus of Showcase mode this year, those who love a bit of history too. Just about Aweeee-ssssome.

Robocop: Rogue City is the very definition of a solid 7 out of 10 which is somewhat reminiscent of the PS2 era in the sense that there were more outliers released during a given year - the type that would be establishing a lot of the formulas that in a risk-averse mainstream market we find difficult to break away from now. It's a strange point to make as we reach a maturation point in what is likely to be a historic year for risk-averse mainstream video game releases but if it were not for a set of fairly prominent technical issues at the time of release and the writing which, while capturing the broad strokes of the Robocop appeal, isn't quite as sharp as it could've been, Robocop: Rogue City puts all of its efforts into all of the right places and does feel like an outlier because of this. It simply is some of the most fun that can be had in interactive media this year and because of the frame it finds itself in will be a dead cert for a future hit cult classic.

And to think how many ridiculed the comment that Gotham Knights was enjoyable. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League doesn't quite tarnish an excellent track record for Rocksteady in comic-book tie-ins, but it tries its hardest to. With a bland repetitive genre choice nobody wanted and a barely passable gameplay mechanic, the best advice to give is to wait for the cutscenes to be bundled together and watch a mildly enjoyable story without the hassle of a game ruining it.

Persona 5 Tactica is a game that offers tricky battles, an intriguing story and the comeback of beloved characters, which makes it a must-have for any Persona 5 fans. While there is a lack of exploration and some of the dialogue can become tedious, it is fundamentally a beautiful little title that is well worth playing.

Splatoon 3: Side Order is a refreshing yet familiar take on the Splatoon setup and well suited for short play sessions and runs to try and take on the lengthy tower. It's longevity, though, is very much grounded in whether rogue-like games and skill-trees appeal. As someone who didn't quite gel with the previous Splatoon single player modes, Splatoon 3: Side Order does tick a lot more boxes - mainly due to the compact, focused approach and that desire to keep pushing further.

From the soft pastel colour palette and catchy title song there is a lot to love about Sympathy Kiss. The true to life and often surprising scenarios uncovered through multiple playthroughs make it an engaging addition to any visual novel enthusiast's library, although a few elements may elicit slight aversion to some audiences.

F-Zero 99 scratches a very specific itch where gamers can get an intense and thrilling rush for a bit before moving on to something else. It will be very disappointing when Nintendo inevitably terminates the service for it because it is some of the best F-Zero content since F-Zero GX.

The asking price does feel disproportionate to what is on offer in Mario vs. Donkey Kong, even despite the host of additional levels that bring it past 130 in total, and its wonderful new presentation and cutscenes. Alongside 1994's Donkey Kong, though, this is the superior gameplay format for this series, which adopted more of a Lemmings approach in subsequent games, so interested folk should seek this one out at a more affordable price in the future.

An enjoyable Klondike Solitaire experience, with some nice anime cutes that make the view better. While there's nothing wrong with that concept, but Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire PLUS manages to ruin the fun by being way to short on content, be it the time to do everything that needs to be done here, or simply unlocking more girls and/or outfits. Nothing PLUS about this, sorry.

A gift to fans of Lara Croft's retro beginnings, Tomb Raider: I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is a masterfully beautified collection of the first three games, plus their extra chapters. It does what all remasters of super old-school classics should do, providing the whole experience, practically unchanged, but in a brand new coat of paint that offers quite the sight, without ruining the magic of the original. Whether most will like the titles included is a different matter altogether, because, while pretty good, they are far from flawless, but as far as upgrades go, this is one of the best of the bunch.

Despite its outward appearance as a cheerful and friendly-looking game, Tiny Thor harbours a formidable array of challenges that can prove to be surprisingly daunting. It provides an unrelenting challenge for even the most experienced players, and yet feels endearingly satisfying and rewarding. Tiny Thor unveils itself as a remarkably intense, gratifying - and also highly accessible - action platformer, standing as one of the most demanding and rewarding experiences within its genre.

Dungeonoid 2 Awakening is a good idea done wrong. Fusing the arcade gameplay of Arkanoid with D&D style, fantasy elements had lots of potential, but the way the whole thing has been executed offers a repetitive experience with not much meat on its bones, and can even get annoying when it comes to "reading" the screen, which can lead to lots of unfair deaths.

Apart from those who find it hard to go back to the past, and simply can't understand "why would anyone play something that looks so old," the rest are highly advised to brave the creepy Doll House of Alisa: Developer's Cut by Casper Croes. Apart from recreating that special vibe of the early survival horror classics, this has a unique magic of its own. There are a few flaws, especially with how annoying combat can be, but as a whole, this is a must have, especially for fans of indie retraux titles.

With its predecessor hitting the dizzy heights of a 9/10, Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth was going one of two ways, either resting on its laurels and delivering another great experience, or going above and beyond to provide new and innovative opportunities for mayhem. With a solid story and fantastic cast of characters supplemented by hours of side content, this is again, not only a game of the year contender, but one that is contending for best RPG ever made (Yes I said it, I mean it too).

It's a lonely, cold planet over here. Mileage on Outer Wilds will depend largely on how much one enjoys exploration, discovery and extrinsic reward versus repetitive backtracking and restrictive (but also far too long and frequently-occurring-to-be-as-restrictive-as-it-is) time limits. It may certainly be a monkey brain desire for feedback and a more robust signposting of progress, but even knowing that the lack of it here is exactly the point, one can't help think there are examples within interactive media that have done lateral think puzzles better. Ones that would waste less time in between solving puzzles, too. Clearly, there's a majority disagreement for this view, so take it with a pinch of salt, but also go into it aware that it's not going to be for everyone. It is an experience that introduces a lot of mind-bending sci-fi concepts and a surprisingly emotional, if conflicting, conclusion. One just wonders if we like the scaffolding more than we like the building itself. Perhaps, though, it's just that some people really don't like time loop mechanics.

There are many times that it is fun to just stop and look around, and the story and characters are a fairly tight package, which is appreciated. Battles are fast, if a bit consistent of spongy enemies. Its mobile roots are obvious, in relation to how equipment, upgrades and other characters work. Overall, there is not a huge sweeping story that will stay with you, but it's a coherent, high quality RPG that is solid across the board.

Another Code: Recollection recontextualises two of gaming's most obscure and heartfelt stories into a single cohesive whole, improving upon them in almost every way and providing a much wider audience with a chance to enjoy the adventure of Ashley Robbins. There are some rough edges here and there but the games are overwhelmingly a slow yet excellent journey that really ought to be experienced by everyone who can stomach the pacing. Melancholic, nostalgic adventures that come highly recommended!

Hitman: Blood Money - Reprisal is a largely satisfying portable interpretation of the classic assassination simulator. While technical constraints result in visual compromises and the save system oversight undermines intended difficulty, the core gameplay loop remains engaging and the intuitive controls facilitate smooth execution. The convenience and versatility of playing Blood Money on the go outweighs some of the port's limitations, making it a worthwhile proposition for fans and newcomers alike.

Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has done it again, Like a Dragon: Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name is another notch in their award adorned catalogue. The emotional journey of series favourite Kiryu and the important bridging of the gap between Yakuza 6 and 7 is a joy to behold and experience. This entry presents the best version of the now deprecated action combat design and is one of the most consistently great experiences to be had on the PlayStation 5 console.

Alina of the Arena offers a neat blend of the typical deck-building fun, with the more complex battlefield of a grid-based strategy title. That said, it's a little underwhelming in terms of content, and even presentation (although the arena feel it provides is quite good). Plus it is in need of some rebalancing. Oh, and more cards that enable movement. Ah, yes, and the console-unfriendly control scheme leaves a lot to be desired on the Switch.

Way too little rhythm gameplay in this rhythm game, as Witch's Rhythm Puzzle leans more towards a puzzler, with the beat acting only as the "opening" during which you can hit a button and play the darn thing. The actual puzzle aspect is nothing to write home about. As for the anime lasses, aren't something special either.

Tekken 8 delivers a fantastically fun package worthy of the price tag. Stylish, narrative driven and not bogged down by the fluff of other recent games in the fighting genre. Offline modes have not been forgotten and time has been taken to ensure that this is not only the best in the series to date, but currently the only real option for any players looking to experience fighting games emphasising fun over funding.

Unfortunately, you can only work with what the era of Pogs and Blockbusters gave you and the Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection is a collection of titles mostly for novelty and nostalgia value. There is fun to be had if you are the type of person with a hankering for some raptor spankering, but likely, this will leave most newcomers feeling a little lost and underwhelmed by the difficulty and lack of features to make all on offer here more accessible.

The Wonderful One: After School Hero is a very fun diversion and was worth the wait. It is noticeably low budget, but PlatinumGames' ingenuity shines through in this lean, mean, but clean mini adventure. For its price, it largely delivers the thrills and is packed with enough variety to make replays enjoyable.

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!

Arcadian Atlas had some solid concepts, the sprites in particular deserving serious commendation for being a highlight of the game that sprite fans will love. Unfortunately, from there the quality really slips; unreadable text, a lacklustre class and skill system, and disjointed art to name a few of the multiple little issues that drag the game down. there are too many little issues that drag the game down and prevent it being fun. The developers seem responsive and some of these issues may be addressed in future updates, but given that the game is being sold for a mid-range price, players should expect a better package.

Shin-Chan: Me and the Professor on Summer Vacation - The Endless Seven-Day Journey may be a mouthful to say but the game is a charming little title that is one of the most relaxing times a player can seek. While it won't appeal to everyone with its slow meandering gameplay, those who want to feel like a child on a holiday will find a memorable experience. A great, child and family friendly, experience.

There are over 500 monsters in Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince, and over 40 hours of main story to trudge through. Fans will get a lot of bang for their buck, but expect to wince at the presentation which is embarrassingly low for Dragon Quest standards. The battles in the colosseums are a little tense to watch as the AIs smack each other around, but are otherwise tedious. The substance of Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince is in being the coach to a team of cartoony-looking Toriyama monsters.

Howl's pace is a brisk whirlwind of quick turns and calculated moves. Its imagery is a charming blend of whimsy and violence, dancing across the screen with a playful ferocity. Yet, beneath this surface, a shallowness lurks. The challenge lies not in the depths of its strategy, but in the player's ability to exploit the predictable patterns of its adversaries. These creatures of the wilderness, though fierce in their appearance, are ultimately creatures of habit, their actions dictated by algorithms and predictable responses. Howl isn't a test of tactical prowess, but a puzzle of exploitation. A game of manipulation, where the gamers are mastermind puppeteers in the shadows, orchestrating the movements of their foes to their own ends.

Exploring the mountains of the Scottish highlands and having bizarre encounters are at the heart of A Highland Song, packaging up everything into a cute side scroller with rhythm action and fun dialogue that feels very unique. Not only is the game a love letter to Scotland, it feels like a very personal project full of talented individuals and while the game has occasional slow moments it is overall a lot of fun. If an atmospheric adventure featuring a wee Scottish lassie is on yer cards then this comes highl(and)y recommended.

Baldur's Gate: Dark Alliance II is basically the first Dark Alliance instalment all over again. A super-simple, but at the same time fun hack 'n' slash ride through a D&D realm. Not exactly a classic, but something that retro fans (and maybe only them) will appreciate. Unless it gets a really good discount, however, there's no point in trying this out, as there are far better alternatives available, both old and new.

Terror of Hemasaurus could not only be the next be the next Rampage, but a much better version of it. This city-demolishing simulator offers exciting and cathartic destruction, plus the welcome introduction of mechanics that Rampage and other likeminded games (all three of them) were missing… but these aren't really enough to help the fun last for more than two or three hours.

At its heart Super Mario RPG: Remake is a hilarious, beautiful and excellently written 12 to 14 hour RPG experience. Its beautiful music and art style just ooze a unique charm that most Mario games can only dream of. It would be amazing to see a new collab with Square Enix coming from this but as that is definitely a pipedream (pun intended), what we have here is an absolute highlight of 2023.

What one buys here is a collection of mediocre-to-decent, but also unknown arcade games; a collection that… well, runs ok, and that's all there is to say about it. VISCO Collection isn't bad, but it's hardly must-have material either.

This is really going to come down to how much you liked the base game. There are some severe things to be made aware of, such as no new characters, not using your save data, and so on. The content is a little thin, and a hefty price tag is going to make a lot of people look away. DLC is met with anger more often than not, and something like this with its price tag doesn't help repair that relationship. Those who really cannot get enough of the first game will probably be happy, but anyone else will feel like there is a lot missing.

WarioWare: Move It! is a return to form for the barmy microgame curator Wario. With his group of familiar friends, odd concepts and motion controls, it's back to basics! There are some slight teething issues with motion controls, but one that may come with practice. A whole host of fun microgames, multiplayer modes and new ideas build on what's made the series a hit with fans. Those who shy away from motion controls would likely prefer Get it Together!, also on Nintendo Switch, instead. Fans of that classic WarioWare feel will be right at home with WarioWare: Move It!!

Utilising the vibrant style of previous instalments, Harvest Moon: The Winds of Anthos accomplishes open world exploration with flair and delight. Natsume has made significant quality of life improvements that truly enhance the positive vibes encompassing life in Anthos. The elements that decrease the overall perfection level matter less once swept up in the whimsical melodrama of the chibi Harvest Goddess, who has a surprise for those who make it to the end credits and continue their farming life past the main story.

A decent Super Smash Bros. clone that clearly improves on the first iteration, but Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 is rife with problems on Nintendo Switch. The 30 frames per second gameplay, unbelievable load times, poor presentation, and glitches that force reboots of the game mean this isn't going to be a joyful time unless playing on one of the more powerful systems. Underneath the numerous issues, there is fun to be had here, and crossplay will at least help ensure match-ups when battling online, but it is difficult to recommend this version of the game.

'Fun' remains the name of the game with Just Dance 2024 Edition. While this remains as enjoyable as it has ever been, for some that won't do. Ubisoft essentially offers something that is the same exact tasty burger, just with a few different spices, served on a slightly differently coloured plate. Oh, and if you want to get a taste of the rest of the menu, you need to give even more of your hard-earned cash on a subscription service.

For all but the most die-hard of fans, Fashion Dreamer is very much a 'play a bit regularly' experience rather than binge-play-for-hours-at-a-time type of game. Aside from some seemingly odd filter menu choice omissions and other minor issues, the promise of regular updates means it's a title worth having on Nintendo Switch, and is certainly going to fulfil a fashion lover's dream, with everyone being able to live their best model life in the easy to play environment.

Front Mission 1st: Remake, like its predecessor, caters to a niche audience, and even dedicated strategy RPG enthusiasts may encounter the demanding intricacies in the gameplay. Every aspect of the Wanzers necessitates careful consideration, and resources can deplete rapidly, leading to extended grinding sessions to ensure readiness for impending battles. While Front Mission 1st: Remakeoffers a commendable alternative to the original, some may wonder if a snappier, HD-2D reimagining could have been a more fitting approach. The success of these efforts sets the stage for the reception of more ambitious upcoming entries in the Front Missionseries.

It has taken Nintendo almost 30 years to get its flagship side-scrolling series back on top, but that is exactly what has been achieved with Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Not since the days of the SNES has 2D Mario felt this original and fun, with the bizarre hallucination-like gameplay elements contributing to both the joy and hilarity all at once, coupled with brilliant character animations and a multitude of ideas that makes every level unique. Stages could have stood to be longer, and it may have been a good opportunity to go a bit wilder with the story and villains, but those are small complaints for what is an absolute blast from beginning to end.

The general quality improvement in this game, over past entries, is mind-blowing for how solid everything is. The dark parts of the story mixed with heavy sci-fi elements are a welcome reprieve in a generally dry genre as of late. Some elements such as random combat deaths and some serious tonal dissonance at times, with its soft yuri tea party themes, is going put off some players. That aside, the solid graphics, generally interesting story and overall solid package make this an easy recommendation to JRPG fans.

Cities: Skylines 2 is shaping up to be a masterpiece. The systems have been expanded to a point where losing an hour to planning power grids is commonplace and, best of all, fun! Building a sprawling city from nothing is as enticing a concept as it has ever been, especially coupled with the multitude of new features and layers of detail to rifle through. It will be interesting to see how the game develops in the future but if it continues the trend the developers set with the original game, well… This game will be a fantastic city-building powerhouse! Highly recommended!

It's hard to resist the world of Benoît Sokal's Syberia: The World Before. With its sweeping vistas, well designed machinery and unique charm, it's a visual joy. This joy is backed up with sublime music and an irresistible dialogue and story that uses ample sarcasm. This, possibly last, entry to the series is a love letter to all that came before and a much-needed return to Syberia. Highly recommended to all lovers of adventure titles.

A somewhat droll campaign will greet players of Modern Warfare II. It's a short bombastic romp with some fun gunplay moments and fantastic graphics. The multiplayer, however, is a miss as it is no longer a properly combined entity and the lack of replayability is disappointing. A recommendation for CoD fans but for anyone even slightly on the fence perhaps keep shopping or waiting for a sale.

A flashy, fast and cool experience Exoprimal has players blasting away at the dinosaur hordes in their thousands. At its core the game is a lot of fun, but it suffers from the usual live service game downsides. How long will it be supported? How will the balancing change? These and other questions can really temper the otherwise fun shooty dinosaur filled experience.

Detective Pikachu Returns is a fun little Nintendo Switch adventure that is ideal for younger players, offering a colourful, eclectic mix of characters, Pokémon and storytelling. It does veer to the simpler side in places in both game design and visual fidelity, but the appeal of the Pokémon universe is strong enough to draw players of all ages into the tale. Those who were fans of the Nintendo 3DS game or simply enjoy a classic point-and-click adventure would feel right at home with Detective Pikachu Returns.

It is a real shame that Kitaria Fables is let down by long loading times and semi-frequent random crashes as overall the world of Canoidera with over twenty areas to explore is a charming RPG full of humour and clever story twists. There is scope for a sequel, but whether one happens for this wholesome adventure remains to be seen.

Assassin's Creed Mirage offers a return to the roots the series is known for, shedding the RPG elements and massive open world for a more intimate experience. Social stealth and traditional parkour are back, and while they don't offer anything the franchise hasn't seen before, they're complemented by a gorgeous recreation of historical Baghdad. The setting is the true protagonist and offers players something new to experience where the gameplay fails to do so. Fans of the series are sure to be refreshed by this calculated step backwards for the franchise, before it inevitably returns to its massive RPG identity.

Silent Hope is many things, and none of these manage to be combined into a great experience. From the exploration and combat, to the customization of your seven heroes, and the whole crafting business, this just never manages to be any fun. There's no challenge or incentive to keep on playing. You just do whatever is needed to be done, so you can go deeper into the labyrinth. That's. It. A chore, rather than a game.

As it is UnderMine is a slightly addictive, but also quite grindy roguelike which can get boring a bit too soon. With just a few changes, especially in the way boosting items such as artifacts work, as well as a few additional tools like weapons or skills (and maybe a more striking art style), it could be one of the genre's classics.

Gunbrella is a dark, atmospheric tale that ends too soon, and never really manages to be as immersive or enjoyable as it could be. While not bad, the writing really struggles with making you feel the pain of the main hero, and the desperation of a dying world. As for the titular weapon, it is criminally underused, despite it being the most exciting thing about Doinksoft's creation.

Logiart Grimoire is a simple game, and yet it's obvious that the developers have poured a lot of thought and love into it. The whole theming of this title is amazing, and it is truly great to play and uncover more chapters and puzzles over time. Emil is a great companion and friend, and the puzzles are both relaxing and challenging. This is a must-have for anyone that loves Picross.

Mortal Kombat 1 absolutely shines in its gameplay, thanks to some healthy tweaks to the formula, not least of which is the excellent Kameo system. There are flashy combos aplenty and some fresh takes on series staples, which are sadly let down by currently lacklustre online options and a less compelling single player experience, bar the riveting story mode. Still, there's so much fun to be had for players obsessed with optimising their combos and getting their fists bloody in the ring, but the amount of content falls shy of what we've been spoiled with in other modern fighters on the market — at the time of this writing, at least.

Adding a magical twist to agriculture certainly helps Fae Farm stand out from competitors, but unfortunately so does the myriad of glitches. These may yet be fixed in future updates, just like the latest one mended some bugs. For some, the cute vibe makes up for the aforementioned issues. It is still essentially an extremely fun life-sim, with a considerable number of quests to fulfil while sporting wings (after a set story point) and quirky characters to befriend, providing dozens of hours of gameplay for those with the patience to forgive the sometimes poorly executed parts that sorely need polishing.

Super Bomberman R 2 is an explosive romp. Classic Bomberman grid mechanics with neat twists in additional modes, with new rules to keep things fresh. In some ways it is a fitting celebration of four decades of bombs - fast, nippy multiplayer gameplay at its core, with cute, colourful characters to tie everything together. Does it push beyond Super Bomberman R? In some ways, yes, but there could well have been more to take this sequel to the next level. That said, those looking for a Bomberman adventure on the Nintendo Switch should hop on into Super Bomberman R 2 with open arms, preferably holding a bomb or two.

Despite its gameplay flaws, Red Dead Redemption is a classic on seventh gen consoles. Its well-crafted characters and script are among the era's best. It's a technological marvel with meticulous attention to detail. While the gameplay may require adaptation on the player's part, it's worth it because Red Dead Redemption's overall experience is greater than the sum of its individual parts.

Sea of Stars may not be a legitimate Chrono Trigger 2, but it does feel like it a lot of the time. This is largely due to the music, visuals and the break-neck pace that keeps the story from ever getting dull. The protagonists will not endear gamers, but the setting, side characters, and atmosphere will. It seamlessly weaves in homages while showcasing greater originality than initially apparent. It stands as an artistic triumph, excelling in both visuals and audio, with its engrossing turn-based combat embodying impeccable design.

For the most part Affogato melds the multiple genres it includes well, delivering an enjoyable and unique experience. Unique does come at a cost for appealing to a mass market however, with some potentially struggling with its concepts and aims. Much like Coffee itself, its not for everyone, but those who do try it, will rave about what the rest are missing.

Armored Core 6 manages to refresh a dated gameplay loop and make it feel like something entirely new. It excels in both its high-octane gameplay and dizzying variety of customisation options. Whether opting for speed or brute force — or something that notches its own point on the spectrum — AC6 offers personalised action gameplay the likes of which has seldom been seen before. Don't go in expecting a Souls-like, and it will surely be a satisfying time.

This collection is well presented and will please anyone who was dying to replay or experience the series for the first time. Megaman Battle Network Collection 1&2 are excellent packages with ample extras to keep players invested and just enough gameplay tweaking to smooth out any issues in these older titles. It's definitely not for everyone but as a Megaman fan, it is greatly recommended for its unique gameplay and style.

While fans of character-building gameplay in souls-likes might find themselves yearning for more, those with a nostalgic fondness for Symphony of the Night will discover solace in this extraordinary experience, deemed by many as the pinnacle of its kind. Prepare to be mesmerized by Blasphemous IIs' mesmerizing imagery and the Penitent One's valiant crusade for purification. The frantic mix of weapon swapping and fast-paced exploration show that the developers learned a lot from their last game and have fully embraced the metroidvania formula.

This far outstrips the first game in content amount, and the approach to telling a new story that can encapsulate the wider scope is genius. We Love Katamari REROLL + Royal Reverie is a fantastic portable game and fits Switch like a glove. This is a hearty recommendation to all gamers and any lovers of the King's tight purple tights.

This new iteration of Quake II is the definitive approach to remastering a classic. The past melds seamlessly with the present, as not only are the two original expansions resurrected, but the very campaign from Quake II 64 is transposed. The new campaign crafted by the hands of MachineGames is a testament to the fusion of innovation and nostalgia. This revitalization becomes a symphony of rejuvenation, as the past is reborn in the crucible of the present, leaving players to navigate a world that is both familiar and novel, both retro and modern. This is not just a remaster; it's a journey through time, a testament to the power of transformation.

Few games in the realm of naughty/lewd/ecchi/hentai can really be considered classics, but that doesn't mean that there aren't some that are a bit more entertaining than expected, offering fun gameplay along with some titillation. Slime Girl Smoothies sadly isn't that. It's a boring and repetitive experience that lacks the addicting, and most of all, the casual-friendly, pick-up-and-play nature of many puzzlers. Unless with a fetish for sexy slime girls, stay away.

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.

Brok the InvestiGator sets you up with frustrating questions and then leaves them hanging. It even throws in sequel bait just to tease. There are multiple endings, but it feels like they got dropped in without much thought, leaving a feeling of wanting more. The blend of genres is a beauty, hitting those noir thriller tropes while revelling in chaotic fun. Truth be told, it falls short of tying it all together in a way that satisfies.

Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective was always a hidden gem that deserves recognition for its innovative gameplay, engaging storyline, and charming presentation. It successfully blends puzzle-solving elements with an intriguing narrative, making it a must-play for fans of the adventure and mystery genres. A unique and memorable gaming experience, this captivating journey as a ghostly detective is definitely worth embarking upon.

When it comes down to brass tacks, what you put in here is what you get out. Going in with a pessimistic attitude is most likely going to breed hatred for the bright bold presentation and what Nintendo perceives to be fun activities. Take everything with a pinch of salt and plan a night around making a fool out of yourself and others however, and you might find yourself discussing 'the night we played Everybody 1-2 Switch!' for years to come. Unfortunately, with limited replay appeal, a night may just be all you get before the diminishing returns.

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.

The Pikmin series is top notch and these HD ports are a great reminder of that for anyone who has played them before, and a wonderful primer to the series for anyone that hasn't. It's startling how well a lot of the artistic decisions that were made in the GameCube era still translate to now, like a soundtrack that is absolutely bang on, and character designs and animations that are infinitely charming. Whether or not the time limit in Pikmin or, conversely, the unlimited time, gauntlet-like puzzle caves and score chasing from Pikmin 2 is the preferred way to go, they're both excellent titles that play just as well now as they ever did. Plus Nintendo has included the New Play Control options for both titles, which updated them with pointer control on the Wii, as an added bonus.

Cute Monster Girls Photographer simulator Boo Party is one of the safest… NSFW titles out there, and that combined with its overall feel-good vibe, quirky sense of humour, and casual-friendly approach to gameplay makes it a rather fun experience. Just be prepared for something that's also repetitive, and way too open-ended, which can be frustrating at times.

The Lara Croft Collection is not to be overlooked. This bundle encompasses one great and one decent arcade action adventure, of which twin-stick shooter and score attack fans will find plenty of enjoyment. Although both games are worth experiencing in multiplayer if possible, Guardian of Light, at the very least, deserves playing even solo, and is a reminder of what Tomb Raider is all about, captured expertly in a style that is positively different, yet respectfully reminiscent of the classic series. Technical issues remain, but it's just a joy to have these ported to a modern platform. Now, with things quiet on the Lara Croft front, surely, it's time for that long overdue third game in this mini-series.

Etrian Odyssey Origins Collection is a wonderful repackaging of three of the best RPGs on the Nintendo DS, maintaining nearly all the benefits of dual screens while offering players respectable quality-of-life features. What Etrian Odyssey lacks in conventional narrative, the series makes up for with its emphasis on player-driven pacing and highly customisable party building. Although the price point is certainly steep, there's no getting around the fact that these are the definitive versions of the first three Etrian Odysseys. Visually crisp with great audio and some of the best dungeon-crawling the genre has seen, all three titles offer RPG fans hundreds of hours of dense dungeon-crawling all on their own. Together, the collection offers audiences a high-class trilogy that'll realistically last them the rest of 2023 - if not even longer. Etrian Odyssey Origins Collection is frankly a steal at $80.

Fast and furious battles may not suit everyone's taste, but the constant humour between character interactions and myriad of options to create strong tanks to crush the opposition make ConnecTank a highly enjoyable and unique game.

D-Life accomplishes something totally unique. Hidden behind its simplicity is a system of complexities, just enough to make for a strangely compelling time. The sound and visuals combine to make something otherworldly and entertaining. It would be a travesty to not recommend this cool and relaxing experience and so this comes highly recommended to all who have a Steam account and even more so to those who own the Nano KONTROL2!

Moss and Moss: Book II are exemplary virtual reality titles. The visual design, levels and characters are awesome, and this implementation increases the immersion through new control methods and greater player interactions. With PS VR2, the increased detail and fluidity is also excellent news for those who struggle with VR comfort. Without any doubt, this series is highly recommended to all who have a PS VR2 device.

Moss and Moss: Book II are exemplary virtual reality titles. The visual design, levels and characters are awesome, and this implementation increases the immersion through new control methods and greater player interactions. With PS VR2, the increased detail and fluidity is also excellent news for those who struggle with VR comfort. Without any doubt, this series is highly recommended to all who have a PS VR2 device.

A fantastic conversion and localisation of a game horror fans have been waiting for for years. Project Zero: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse is an amazing horror title with an intriguing story, great visuals and a penchant for being terrifying. It works well on Switch, and, outside of a couple of small control issues, is a worthwhile and recommendable experience for horror game enthusiasts.

While an enjoyable and relaxing title, Doraemon Story of Seasons: Friends of the Great Kingdom needs some major improvements when it comes to translation and some graphical and gameplay elements. Nevertheless, it is not unplayable, and those who enjoyed the first game will also have a good time with it.

Persona 4 Golden is one of those titles that just feels good to return to after a few years. The story is intriguing, and the gameplay is fun and engaging. This is a must-have for any Persona fan.

A nice-looking little game, and the idea of solving puzzles by building things out of LEGO bricks is great. However, LEGO Bricktales simply lacks in story and almost everything else that could have made it a more interesting product. Here's to hoping that the idea gets revisited and improved in the future.

The graphics and the base structure of Bravery and Greed are pretty good. The issues really come down to simple things like the entire point of collecting gold being almost useless, and the unlock systems leaving so much to be desired. The online is dead short of finding someone through Discord. It's sad because the game actually has the potential to be really good, but just needs a few overhauls to get there.

.hack//G.U. Last Recode is a remaster of PlayStation 2 games... and it shows. The resolution is crisp and razor-sharp, but there is no hiding how basic these character models are. Lead characters fare best, but most NPCs are hopelessly devoid of detail or articulation - typically stuck with frozen expressions, too. On Nintendo Switch, .hack//G.U. Last Recode runs a perfectly stable 30 frames per second. The new bonus chapter is an epilogue where gamers can find out what has happened to all the characters that they have grown attached to. It is a welcome addition and lasts a few hours, but is ultimately unnecessary.

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?

Ultra Kaiju Monster Rancher is a very specific title that is going to appeal to a specific audience. What it does it does very well with heaps of charm, but that is counterbalanced by repetition and not a lot of challenge. Much of the dialogue eventually becomes superficial, training animations wear out their welcome rather quickly, making the 'fast forward' option a required feature, and there aren't quite enough monster variations or tournament types to keep it all from blending into the same thing. Despite this, it is still likable, and seems like it would be very much at home on mobile devices. Regardless, it's always going to be a kick to see Ultraman show up to keep a rampaging monster in check.

Triple Click Podcast has been going on and on about this being one of the best unsung games of the year, and it's easy to see why. The ability to get on with, enjoy and progress through this title makes one feel intelligent, and there's even a touch of smugness that's attached to that feeling. On more than a couple of occasions, The Case of the Golden Idol requires some leaps in logic to reach the conclusion, in absence of having all of the information needed to be certain, and this is so well done as one will self-reflect that they are a genius for figuring it out. Otherwise, it is a very slow and rigid title that will no doubt be an acquired taste for many - the last two cases in particular are extremely difficult, and with little flexibility for experimentation it could be easy to run into a hard stop. At the end of the day, there is nothing else in the whodunit genre that represents what it was like to be Father Dowling on an intellectual level any better.

There's no question It Takes Two is a well-crafted game. There's no debate it is somewhat fresh in its execution and should be applauded for following its own unique vision. Heck, no one would argue it's not fun. Its shortcomings, however, do make one wonder if others got a little drunk on the novelty of it all. Instead, while it offers a somewhat refreshing take on the platforming genre this is mostly by virtue of being an exclusively co-op experience. It could have benefited from more refined characters, as well as better online support on Nintendo Switch. Really, where It Takes Two is going to be best suited is on a couch with a partner playing together.

Both newcomers and long-time veterans will be able to find enjoyment when playing Picross S8. With plenty of tutorials and support available, it is easy to learn the ropes, and for anyone already in the know of the ancient art of Picross, these can be skipped or disabled. Picross S8 is the perfect title for some relaxing downtime!

The Sims 4: Cottage Living adds a variety of new and exciting opportunities to the base game. The new style is themed very well and fits the country aesthetic. The overall number of added features can be overwhelming at times, but this pack comes highly recommended to anyone wishing for a bit more action in the lives of their Sims.

A Gummy's Life is a simple game with a hook that fails to reel in the player base it needs. Still, the element of cross-play shouldn't be overlooked. Gummy diversity is lacking in terms of stats for each and the physics systems support that fact. The variety of stages is decent, but the vibrancy is overblown. However, with a group of friends either online or at home, there might be a quick laugh to be had from this silly little title.

Players should expect a slow start to Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge, but will begin to flow better after a couple of hours. Once the pacing picks up, the Star Wars atmosphere, tense gun fights and fun excursions offer an experience that fits PS VR2 like a glove. It's a great game and recommended to owners of the hardware.