There is intensity in the pre-game intro that carries into the first snap and concludes as the last second ticks off the clock. Even without any game changing additions, there was a clear focus on smoothing out the rough edges and making the best playing Madden of this generation.

Mirrors Edge is an intense and intensely enjoyable experience from top to bottom that manages to capture a very interesting gameplay element and perfect it.

With all of the praise, it is no wonder that for the second time Forza Motorsports 2 still manages to impress.

Dragon Quest Builders is definitely a great stride of creativity in the gaming world. Going in, I didn’t expect anything more than the ability to build things and killing a bunch of slimes. What I got was something far greater, and far better than anything I could have imagined. You have the ability to completely change everything around you, and you can truly feel the importance of your role; even the aesthetics and sounds are great enough to evoke that kind of emotion. It gives you an awesome sense of accomplishment, surrounds you with some of the most interesting concepts that this genre has ever seen, and makes you feel like you’re worth something in this world. This is what it means to be a Builder.

Diablo III: Eternal Collection is a fantastic addition to the Nintendo Switch lineup, and if the years of popularity isn't enough to go by, the vast amount of play styles and options offered by the game should suit the preferences of the many. I recommend the game to all types of gamers, as it's accessible in so many ways. The Nintendo Switch also upholds every aspect of the traditional Diablo experience, so long-term fans of the series need not worry about moving over to the handheld version. If anything, I recommend it for its versatility.

I would love to just ramble on and on about all the wonderful stories and how they're presented in What Remains of Edith Finch, but doing so would denote spoilers (and no one wants that). But suffice to say, this is a game that needs to be experienced for yourself. As I mentioned in my intro paragraph, the players who take the time to forage through all the post-it notes, diaries, family photos, etc. littered throughout the disheveled Finch house will probably get the most out of this game. What Remains of Edith Finch is a strong contender for my Top 5 Games of 2017, and even if you might not consider yourself a fan of the genre, I would still strongly encourage you to give this game a shot.

In the end, I feel like Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battles is a great game just falling short of a few paces from becoming a masterpiece, which I mean in a positive sense because there are rooms for improvement in this already exceptional tactical/strategy game. Ubisoft went above and beyond to prove that they can make a Mario game that can make Nintendo and its fans proud while opening the door for many possibilities in the future.

I'm usually not a huge fan of games like Sine Mora, but this one is really amazing. While it is a little pricy at $15, especially considering its length, I think that it is certainly worth the money. The story is also shockingly poignant, the graphics are beautiful, and the gameplay is challenging but precise and fun. Most importantly, it makes an intimidating genre open for new comers

Despite its generic title, “Out of Time” is the best episode yet of Life Is Strange. It increases the complexity Max’s life and the power she commands.

While new players can jump into Monster Hunter World without fear of being overwhelmed by its complexity, the reality is that at some point, all players will need to take a deep dive into the game's weapon, upgrade and combat systems. Most important, players must be willing to accept and learn to enjoy the game's very specific style and rhythm, both markedly different from most action RPGs. Whether playing solo or with a group, Monster Hunter World is a rich and rewarding experience.

A great adventure. With the complex puzzles, enjoyable gameplay, and exquisite world to explore, Crystal Dynamics once again gives Tomb Raider fans an exemplary addition to the acclaimed series.

There isn't a better sports title than FIFA 13 out right now, and I include any and all varieties of sports in that claim. There isn't a single release out there that has the depth, variety and longevity to match it.

While I think Nairi: Tower of Shirin had a potential to be a perfectly-scored game, I have to dock enough points to keep it just below it. Subject yourself to the setback of an unsatisfactory ending but experience an otherwise extraordinary graphic adventure. I highly recommend you to join Nairi and Rex on their journey, and hope that I get to join them on a sequel very soon!

The Red Strings Club is provocative but not preachy, smart but not smug, and poignant but not pretentious. And it’s just that extra bit self-assertive like all the great stories need to be. Most of all, if you play the game true to your own conscious, it gives us hope. The Red Strings Club makes perfect use of its medium as an interactive thriller, challenging you inside out. Maybe I’m getting old, but when a game makes me cry at the end, it must be something special.

From its inception to the execution, Iron Danger showcases a rare, coherent vision where everything comes together to form a unified experience, not least because of truly novel gameplay that holds it all together. I’m afraid that Iron Danger has spoiled other games in its genre for me. I can no longer imagine playing formulaic fantasy tropes with rigid combat and eternally repeated, tired systems.

If it wasn't for a few duds, this game would be incredible, but even still, it's the best game to show off your WiiU and a great experience to play with some friends.

It's without question that Need for Speed Hot Pursuit is one of the, if not the most enjoyable racing games of 2010.

In no way should that inevitable feeling stop your from playing this, though. The joy you’ll find from the craziest dogfight you’ve ever engaged in will far out weigh the point when you will want to put it down. So suit up, and when you’re ready, press up to Raus.

A mediocre story and weak protagonist may keep Tokyo Mirage Sessions from going down as an all-time classic, but phenomenal world building and addicting gameplay still make this a game I know I'll remember for years to come. If anything, it may stick with me more because the reasons I like it are so different from why I normally connect with its genre. If you have any interest in any of the franchises involved here and you missed the game the first time on the Wii U, don't make the same mistake again.

The beautiful setting and sensational visuals are one thing, but when you mix it in with heart-pounding races, an extensive car list, intense competitive online play, and a vast explorable world, it all translates to Horizon 2 being the cream of the crop in the genre and the best in its class.

In the end, I enjoyed myself most when I stopped comparing Nioh to Souls games and appreciated it for what it is. Nioh has fast-paced, challenging combat with a deep loot and upgrade system. With well-designed levels and a ton of content, it's easy to sink a lot of time into this visit to Sengoku era Japan.

Marred only by a relative lack of content, Fast Racing Neo more than ably fills a void left by other futuristic racers and just looks and sounds incredible as well.

Bioshock is an absolutely fantastic game and one of the best of this generation first on the 360, and now just as good on the PS3.

Torchlight is a great downloadable title that should not be missed by anyone who enjoyed the Diablo titles, or anyone looking to get into the game type because they will have a lot of fun with this game.

Star Renegades is an impressive roguelike I didn’t realize I wanted until I finally gave it a shot. It’s a polished title that wears its inspirations on its sleeves and delivers a well-crafted gameplay experience from beginning to end. The sharp blend of luck, skill, and perseverance needed to beat the game as well as the superb presentation kept me coming back for more. Each playthrough rewards the player with subtle improvements along with a greater familiarity with how each character functions on a mechanical level. Without a doubt, Star Renegades is a quality title well worth putting your time into.

If you are down for mayhem, down for a great story and feel up to a difficult challenge The New Order has you covered on all bases. What it lacks in online play it makes up for in collectables and story length.

Although maybe not perfect, Killzone 2 has all the right ingredients for what turns out to be one of the best games so far in 2009.

Call of Duty: World at War I believe will surprise gamers with how complete of an experience it is.