There are a lot of other things worth unpacking about this game (pour one out for Rob as I pitch a thousand Dead Space features), but as a cohesive whole? Dead Space Remake is damn good fun, with interesting ideas and appreciation of the greater franchise that most remakes lack. This isn’t some studio trying to massively reinvent an IP, but working to fit the best pieces together so it can grow anew. It's a fitting tribute to Visceral's best days - maybe not a perfect rendition, but few cover songs ever are.

Just when you think you’ve run out of things to do in Destiny 2, the game teases you with an additional 5-10 hours of gameplay. What I’ve reviewed doesn’t even include the additions of Iron Banner, Faction Rally, or the hard mode for the Raid. You’re getting a lot more game this time around.

From its quirkiness in its aesthetic to its unique level design and progression, Reroll kept me entertained from start to finish while holding a polish that you should expect from a remaster.

As a fan of the original arcade coin-suckers, I can say that Shredder’s Revenge hits the right notes in all departments. However, modern gamers who didn’t grow up with cartridges that needed a good blow and a bang might find the admittedly simple and one-direction gameplay a bit too basic. Basically, if you’ve used a VHS player in real life, you’ll get what Shredder’s Revenge is all about. If you’ve never touched a floppy disk, you might get bored of button bashing by Episode 6.

With its captivating story, layered characters brought to life by stellar acting, incredible visuals and environments, refined combat, and some of the most varied quests in the Cyberpunk 2077 world, Phantom Liberty continues CDPR's tradition of delivering some of the finest add-ons ever.

Mindcop is an entertaining noir detective game that is a welcome addition to a coveted genre of other great titles. Its three-dimensional characters have enough dilemmas and conflicts to make you stray off the case and dig into their own backstories. The writing has a profound balance between melancholy and humor that it will occasionally sprinkle in some wholesome beats. Despite the time management mechanic being somewhat harsh on your actions, Mindsurf and Sea of Thoughts are two gameplay components that make the experience understandable and easy to manage for casual players. Regardless of its few flaws, those are far outweighed by the creative gameplay, unique art style, and strong writing, which tie everything together wonderfully.

Like Tetris Effect before it, Lumines Arise lives up to the franchise's legacy. It's slick, stylish, and as addictive as ever. Despite my complaints and critiques of the game, especially those level transitions that take you out of the rhythm you've established, I look forward to spending hundreds of hours with Lumines Arise over the next decade or so. There was nothing quite like Lumines back in the day, and even though there are similar titles available today in 2025, there's still only one Lumines. A must-own for any puzzle game fan.

Persona 4 Golden, by all accounts, is still one of the best JRPGs that you can play right now, which speaks volumes given that the original game is over 10 years old. Whether you’re a longtime fan looking for a reason to return to Inaba or you’re someone who has had an eye on P4G for years but just never had the means to play it, this new PC version of the game is definitely worth snagging. Hopefully, Persona 4 Golden will be the first in a long string of new ports from Atlus, and in time, we can start to see the full series become more accessible on modern platforms.

Simply put, Velocity 2X feels just as good as it always has.

Dispatch is absolute cinema, literally and figuratively. AdHoc has truly crafted a delightful experience with its workplace-comedy superhero narrative, one that features a strong cast of well-written and eccentric characters, making you eager to meet them again like long-distance BFFs. The gameplay can be slightly tricky to grasp, but ultimately becomes a hyper-engaging burst of time-based unit management. Each character is so lovable at heart that you won't even need a lengthy backstory for context. And with a writing direction that strongly emphasizes character relationships and banter with one another, it is one of the most cathartic video game experiences that I had this year, making me grateful for every minute I spent with Robert and his crew, as well as making me want to support AdHoc in any way possible in a plea for making another season on these whimsy goofballs.

Antonblast is not only a love letter to the neglected Wario Land series, but it's also a great game in its own right, standing tall with incredible animation, a super distinct visual style, and an overwhelmingly awesome soundtrack. Everything in this game comes together seamlessly, and even if the visuals can be a bit too overstimulating and the bosses aren't much to write home about, the game underneath it all is extremely solid, fun, and frantic. Everything together makes for one of the most fun games I've played this year and an easy recommendation to any platforming fanatic.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, it feels almost poetic that Halo Infinite is its biggest, boldest, and most creative launch since the series released. Bringing a return to form for both the campaign and multiplayer, the entire experience is a Halo tour de force for the Xbox brand.

Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is superior to its classic version. The gameplay additions are welcome and streamline the experience, allowing us to invest time where it truly matters, whether exploring or completing the most varied missions. The new story content may be divisive, but for me, it was the perfect conclusion to the game, leaving me intrigued about what to expect for the future of the Xeno series. My only caveat is that our avatar is way too inexpressive, and their presence can be jarring in some story beats. Xenoblade Chronicles X may not be my favorite in the franchise, but it is definitely a must-play for any JRPG fan.

Absolum is a game that will be remembered not only for its incredible scenery but also for its fantastic gameplay. From the very first moments, it's clear that Absolum is something special and unique. A mix of powerful mechanics and expert game design will make players leave every session wanting more. Absolum will undoubtedly make a name for itself as one of the greatest games of the year. Whether it's with a friend or solo, beating up hordes of enemies has never been so much fun.

While I won’t be forgetting this Western romp anytime soon, I’ll be remembering the witty dialogue exchanges and unique graphics more than its gameplay.

Diablo 4 improves upon nearly every core gameplay mechanic from Diablo 3 while introducing a few great quality-of-life features that make this journey to Sanctuary the best yet. While some of the quest systems seem dated, the main story is delivered beautifully, breathing new life into the series.

After a dozen or so hours in Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition, I can safely say that it's the real McCoy. This is not a watered-down port to give Microsoft an easy first-party Xbox Game Pass release. It's the real deal and as feature complete as the PC edition, which is quite an accomplishment. A myriad of quality-of-life improvements makes the original game, while still a classic, very much redundant. The only reason to keep hold of the original is to preserve those big beautiful boxes PC games used to ship in. We're in a new age now, and Age of Empires 2: Definitive Edition is the perfect example of taking an ancient game and giving it just enough love to make it feel almost new, something that many other remasters and re-releases so often miss the mark on.

The Messenger is not just a brilliant love letter to the 8-bit and 16-bit games that inspired it. It’s proof that even in a market saturated with retro-style platformers, there are still clever ways to approach the genre. It is one of the most well-designed games I have ever played on both a gameplay and storytelling level. Sabotage really created something special here and I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

Zero Escape: The Nonary Games is a perfect addition to any visual novel fan’s collection. Both games are truly a work of art that combine mystery and horror to tell a story that is so gripping that it’s almost impossible to put down. The only thing missing is the inclusion of the third entry of the series, Zero Time Dilemma.

Dragon Quest Builders 2 is a masterfully built game with a multitude of shiny new features that are just a joy every second you get to tinker with them. I could play this game for a very long time and never get bored with it. There’s something included here for fans of multiple genres and titles. Whether you’re a fan of the Dragon Quest series or not, this is a game you can jump into. While it’s certainly a spin-off from the mainline series, Dragon Quest Builders 2 may very well be one of the best game in the entire franchise.

Steins;Gate has been re-released with new anime visuals that completely revitalize an already interesting storyline.

This is the definitive version of Death Stranding. If you were interested in Death Stranding when it released on PS4 and have been waiting to see how the PC version turns out, then go ahead and pull the trigger. However, Death Stranding isn’t for everyone. If you’ve seen nothing of the game before, make sure you check out some gameplay before purchasing it; I’ve had a blast experiencing the story and struggling through tense moments, but I know some of my friends would absolutely hate it. The new Half-Life and Portal content is great, but I wouldn’t say it warrants a replay. Death Stranding is so large that I doubt many PS4 players will be looking to replay it on PC, but for those who are, you’ll be happy to hear that the new content unlocks very early in the game.

OPUS: Prism Peak feels like one of those rare titles that quietly lingers with you long after the credits roll. It’s a game that demands patience, asks you to pay attention, and occasionally frustrates with its pacing and lack of convenience, but there’s a clear intent behind it all. Every mechanic, every quiet interaction, every photograph ties back into a story about memory, regret, and making peace with what lingers. It won’t land the same for everyone, and it definitely isn’t built for rushed playthroughs, but if you let yourself sit with it, there’s something undeniably affecting about Eugene's self-discovering journey. And by the time it reaches its final stretch, Prism Peak becomes a game that'll make your chest tighten up from all the moments of adorableness, earnestness, and empathy between its cast of characters.

Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition is arguably one of the, if not the best way to enjoy the game. The only thing missing is some online features that would make the game all the better with some friends online.

I have a difficult time not recommending Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered as a whole.

I’m thrilled to see that Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze has transitioned almost flawlessly over to the Switch.

Free Roam is a major disappointment, but Mario Kart World is still an excellent game that helps justify purchasing a Nintendo Switch 2. It's the console's day-one killer app backed by an incredible soundtrack, well-rounded roster of characters, and addictive gameplay. There's so much more than meets the eye here. Nintendo has rightfully come under fire for skimping on content with their games, but that thankfully isn't the case here. After putting thousands of hours into Mario Kart 8, I can see myself doing the same with Mario Kart World. Now, if you'll excuse me, it's time to go back online and participate in more Knockout Tour races.

Nioh 3 is an incredible game that expands on the core gameplay of its predecessors and drops players into a vast world where they can unleash their combat potential to their heart's content. It's a huge step-up for the series as a whole, and I'm excited to see where it goes next.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is an excellent new entry in this iconic franchise, and a great entry point for new Metroidvania fans (while still offering plenty of challenge for veterans of the genre). The traversal and combat feel incredibly satisfying, and the story offers an exciting adventure you don't want to miss.

After eight long years of waiting, Bayonetta is back with all her flash and pomp intact. And while I expect this entry to hold my interest for quite a while, I hope we don’t have to wait another eight years before we see one of the biggest names in gaming return.

Although Ghost of Yotei lacks a cohesive and well-executed main story, it makes up for that with its vastly improved combat and world design. It obviously doesn't do anything mind-blowing for the open-world genre, but it refines nearly every aspect that made Tsushima special while carving out its own unique identity. Atsu’s journey delivers both emotional depth and visceral action through her mastery of various weapons, supported by a beautifully crafted world that feels alive without overwhelming you with a boatload of recurring side activities. It’s a love letter to revenge tale media rather than the traditional samurai cinema and players who still adore the gameplay-focused prowess of Sucker Punch—moreover, it's also a reminder that sometimes, a safe sequel can still be satisfying to play.

Mixtape is a coming of age tale that hits all the right notes from beginning to end. While it's a short game that you might only play once, that does not take away from how special the journey is along the way. Witty, hilarious writing, incredible voice performances, gorgeous art direction, and consistently creative gameplay beats are paired with a flawless soundtrack that serves as the backbone for every single scene perfectly in a '90s period piece that knows exactly what to drive home. The result is a wholly unique gaming experience that's loaded with nostalgic charm, great humor, and many poignant moments that will make you reframe how you think about your own personal memories of youth. I cannot recommend it enough.

Final Fantasy XII is an epic, sprawling tale that many gamers — myself included — missed the first time around because of when it was released. Don’t make that mistake again. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is one of the best, if not the best, remaster of a Final Fantasy game in recently memory, and is objectively better now than it was a decade ago.

ARC Raiders is an incredibly challenging extraction shooter that will push you to your limits and frustrate you, but you'll keep coming back for more. With breathtaking visuals, thoughtfully-designed maps, intense PvP, and intelligent, unpredictable AI, ARC Raiders has raised the bar incredibly high for extraction shooters and will likely inspire an entire wave of games that hope to recreate its magic. Its quirky cyberpunk cosmetics give it a personality all its own, and with extensive quests and co-operative gameplay opportunities, ARC Raiders is revolutionizing the genre and pushing it further into the spotlight.

Destiny 2: Forsaken is Destiny at its best. Many of the systems that players loved from the original have returned, and many features from Destiny 2 have been refined. If Bungie continues to produce expansions like this then Destiny will certainly last for ten years as promised.

Silent Hill f is completely distinct from any other entry in the franchise, but also firmly committed to being faithful to Team Silent's visions, and it carried out those visions wonderfully. Not only is the game a horror masterpiece, it's a Silent Hill masterpiece, finally giving veteran fans the long-awaited relief we've been craving. While being a commentary on feminine fears and oppressive societies, Silent Hill f gives much for players to chew on, and even more to swallow, in the most visually striking and grotesque entry the series has seen yet. The first new Silent Hill entry in over a decade is everything fans could ever hope it to be and then some, cementing itself as an instant classic not just for the franchise, but for survival horror overall.

Sonic Mania has helped me rediscover what it was I loved about Sonic growing up and it took me back to a time where I could just pick up a game and have fun. This is for Sonic fans everywhere and it will not disappoint.

Everything it does, it does incredibly well. Whether you’re looking to hop into stealth tactics for the first time or you’re an old pro, I would wholeheartedly recommend you check out Desperados 3. It is, without question, one of the best games I’ve played all year.

If you like fighting games, Mortal Kombat 11 is a must. NetherRealm Studios continues to create great fighting games with compelling stories, even in the goofiest of video game universes. Every minute of my day, I am thinking of how I can improve and perfect my strategies. Whether you’re a long-time kombatant or new to the series, Mortal Kombat 11 is a bloody blast.

Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is a huge step in the right direction for the franchise. The story is easily the best in the franchise, and while the gameplay still has problems (like the insistence on using AI-controlled party members), it's much better than its predecessor, and made me far more engaged with the combat and Monstie growth mechanics. ​​​​​​​Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection is way better than Monster Hunter Wilds, and hopefully reflects a brighter future for the series.​​​

Instead of the b-movie cheesiness we’ve come to know and love from previous games (sorry fans — no boulder-punching this time around), Resident Evil VII reaches levels of dread and fear we haven’t seen since the days of the original, and that (mostly) works to the game’s advantage when it comes to reinvigorating the franchise.

In the same way that Counter-Strike‘s early days led to it dominating the competitive scene and Minecraft‘s years of beta access led to it becoming a game that defined a generation, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds isn’t necessarily the first “battle royale” game out there, but it is the one that’s leading the charge on making players fight to survive, and it’s thrilling in every way.

Beat Saber has just about everything I want from a rhythm game.

The third time really is the charm, as Luigi’s Mansion 3 finds a perfect blend of humor and gameplay for a delightfully spooky experience.

Dragon's Dogma 2 offers an incredible Fantasy adventure with some of the most engaging open-world exploration I've experienced.

If you have been missing the pure, genuine adventuring encouraged by the JRPGs of old, and you have been eager to see what the most traditional incarnation of the genre could achieve when paired with top-notch production values, this is most definitely the game for you.

From the moment it starts, Returnal is unrelentingly challenging in a way that begs the player to try just one more time.

Forza Motorsport 7 is a fantastic game — as a whole, the series has managed to tweak a near-perfect racing series to provide the best sim racing experience year after year. If you are a die-hard Forza Motorsport fan, I can assure you this game is worth its purchase price.

Wax Heads is a fun, but short, cozy narrative sim that puts you into the world of physical media via selling vinyls, which is actually seeing a resurgence in the real world. What starts as a charming new job with friendly coworkers turns into the story of how hobbies have to be balanced with real-world obligations and the reality of how corporate practices often hurt small businesses the most, taking away beloved features from towns. It's cute and a bit of a puzzle game, but I wish it lasted longer and gave me more options when speaking to characters, especially to ask follow-up questions regarding record requests.

Cyberpunk 2077 is a deeply conflicting game, one that you'll end up loving but will also hate and feel profoundly disappointed by.

Cairn isn't just a good game, it's a great game. With an incredibly nuanced story and a difficulty level that will challenge almost anyone, there's not a lot to hate here. The anger, sadness, joy, and surprise all culminate into a journey that isn't just a game; it's something far more meaningful. This is a game everyone should play if only to experience that nuanced story of Aava's journey. While I wasn't expecting to connect so emotionally with this game, I'm glad I did. Cairn is a story that needs to be heard. Although it isn't perfect, what makes it special is the combination of all the different elements to make something that can be meaningful to almost anyone. In the end, the game asks the most important question of all: what is your summit?

It’s pretty fantastic...The crossover I didn’t know I needed until I played it. Save for a few hiccups, this rhythmic take on the popular Nintendo series is a wonderful surprise. It’s proof that smaller studios like Brace Yourself Games can take beloved franchises, flip them on their head, and make something undoubtedly refreshing. I won’t say I want to see Crypt of the NecroDancer mechanics in all of Nintendo’s franchises, but I would like to see Nintendo commit to more collaborations like this.

What it comes down to is Metroid: Samus Returns feels like a game that would have killed (and in many ways belongs) in the 90’s. But in a current climate where the game has to compete with powerhouses Ori and the Blind Forest, Holloe Knight, or SteamWorld Dig 2, the title feels tepid in comparison.

More than anything the pros far outweigh the cons when it comes to a title that, even after a decade after its release, still plays remarkably well and manages to put a smile on my face.

Improving on its predecessor in almost every way, Wasteland 3 is one of the best and most reactive RPGs I've played in a long time.

It's honestly tough scoring Super Mario Bros. Wonder + Meetup in Bellabel Park. The base game, Mario Wonder, is still excellent, but it's a three-year-old title at this point. You can also pick up the Nintendo Switch version for cheaper and not feel like you're missing out on any content. Despite my issues with Bellabel Park, it doesn't make Mario Wonder a bad game. If anything, it just makes the newest version one worth picking up only if you're looking to play with your kids or younger siblings. They'll undoubtedly love what's in store for them. If you're like me, though, and were hoping for something along the lines of Donkey Kong Bananza, Odyssey, and the original Wonder content, you'll be disappointed.

With the best writing of any game thus far in 2019, any fan of RPGs needs to play The Outer Worlds.

Pillars of Eternity: Complete Edition is without a doubt a brilliant game that nearly singlehandedly revived a genre that has been replaced in the hearts of many by World of Warcraft, The Witcher, or The Elder Scrolls series. And while those series (and their respective genres) are amazing in their own right, Obsidian’s re-imagining of the poorly-aged genre is a must play for any fan of similar games and a great jumping off point for those interested in dabbling in something more complex.

Jedi: Survivor offers a deep story, thrilling combat, and exciting exploration, and despite some technical issues that drag it down, it's still my new favorite Star Wars game. DualShockers was provided with a copy of the game for review purposes.

A beautifully realized gothic soulslike with a satisfying gameplay loop and gorgeous horror visuals., Lies of P is an absolutely fantastic game with gripping action and a wonderfully dark setting. Its mix of seemingly disparate ideas is genre fusion that's just bizarre enough to work. It's no lie to say that Lies of P is a great time.

Esoteric Ebb is a weird game in the best way possible. It's a bit of a slow start, but once it gets you hooked, you'll want to see it through to the end. While it doesn't offer up information on completing quests, it does give you the freedom to explore the world and characters. If you're a fan of DnD looking for something unique with some solid writing and good humor, then you won't find a better game to play than Esoteric Ebb.

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a worthy follow-up to the previous installment, even if a lot of the core DNA has remained the same. Despite some rough edges, the experience as a whole is one that’s hard to put down once you get entrenched. This proves to be doubly true if you’re playing on PS5 and are really looking for a game that’s going to show you what this next-gen leap is all about. Even though the first game in this new franchise from Insomniac might still be the one that I prefer overall, Miles Morales gives us more than an ample taste of where we could see this series going in the future, which makes me quite excited, to say the least.

Assassin’s Creed: Origins is the most memorable entry in the series in years, answering age-old questions like “why are assassins missing their ring fingers?” and is an excellent game to start with if you’re a newcomer.

Final Fantasy IX on PlayStation 4 has rekindled my imagination that for years I thought I had lost, giving me a reason to return to these characters and story that deserve to be experienced by any fan of the genre. Final Fantasy IX on PlayStation 4 is upgraded and re-rendered up to the best possible version for every fan of Final Fantasy, new and old.

Solium Infernum is a truly satisfying political strategy game with a ton of unique systems to allow you to scheme and backstab to your heart's content.

Pragmata is endlessly cool, visually sharp, and a testament to the fact that Capcom is really cooking with their IP these days, old and new alike. The combat system along with the hacking gameplay are incredibly intuitive, and it's fun puzzling out each encounter to handle it most efficiently. I do think the core loop of each level is a bit basic in terms of moment-to-moment action, and the game's story, while serviceable, doesn't quite capture the emotions I think it wanted to. Regardless, at the end of the day, this is a very entertaining and impressive video game, and what's been pulled off is worthy of celebration.

Even if you haven't played the first game, Citizen Sleeper 2: Starward Vector is a rousing sci-fi adventure. It features complex but fun dice mechanics, a choose-your-own-adventure playstyle, and many memorable characters to interact with. If you're able to push through the initial learning curve, you'll find a worthy and long-lasting VN experience.

The truth is after picking up Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana I simply couldn’t put it down until I finished the story. In the end, I found myself attached to many of the characters that I met along the way and part of me wished that this Ys adventure never had to end.

If there is a game that fully embodies and actually easily overcomes the definition of “complete package,” that’s Yakuza 0. It’s a rich, colorful and engrossing experience that I can wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who loves the genre, Japanese culture, or simply a very, very good story with some of the best and most genuinely likable characters you’ll ever encounter in gaming.

To put it simply, Dragon Ball FighterZ is stunning in motion.

When I sat down to play this game I had one mission for Bungie: prove to me that Destiny 2 isn’t just another expansion. Thankfully, it turns out that Destiny 2 has listened to the fans and has taken a look in the mirror: the product is one that I –so far– thoroughly enjoy.

While the full MSRP for Pikmin 3 Deluxe might be hard to justify, the port is the definitive way to experience the best entry in the series.

The Alters is a unique and atmospheric survival game that riffs on the existing 11 Bit Studios blueprint in a meaningful way. Offering a superb sci-fi story that is equal parts somber, surreal, and silly. The economy, base building, and Alter Management are the highlights, which are somewhat dragged down by the rather mindless exploration that feels like a means to an end. But overall, The Alters is a brave and bold step forward within the survival genre, and one that will make you question your life decisions more than any other.

The physical interactions brought forth by the Dragon Engine create brawls that feel incredibly satisfying.

The gameplay is still smooth and quick, the music will make you want to dance, and the racetracks look better than ever.

Europa Universalis V is the thrilling next iteration of Paradox's long-running grand strategy series. If you're still playing EU IV and wondering whether the upgrade is worth it, I'm here to tell you that you absolutely need to play this game. It takes everything about the last entry from 2013 and improves on it. If you're a newcomer with an interest in complex, deeply involved grand strategy games, then now is the perfect time to jump in.

I think the words "pure joy" perfectly encapsulate Kirby and the Forgotten Land. It was immensely successful in targeting its younger audience, while still accommodating older fans of the Kirby franchise. It’s full of personality, absolutely endearing, and at times just downright hilarious – what more could you ask from a Kirby game?

Gwent became a means to an end by the finale, a necessary thing to do to unlock the next story segment, and something I would avoid when possible. Its a shame because Thronebreaker does some good work modifying the familiar Gwent rules, they just get easily overshadowed by the main storyline and the various decisions you can find along the way.

Moss hits way above its weight — creating one of the few captivating, must-play stories on VR.

Outer Wilds takes you on a wonderful mystery through a hand-crafted solar system that is well worth a visit.

Thanks to a compelling mix of gameplay and atmosphere bound by an incredible art style, Supergiant Games has crafted one of this year’s most unique titles.

Marvel’s Iron Man VR is a decent game, no matter where you play it, though I would argue that the Meta Quest 2 version is perhaps the best way to play thanks to its ease of use and cleaner visuals. The intuitive controls, fun aerial combat, and some quality presentation make for a heroic effort by developer Camouflaj, and a worthy addition to any Quest 2 library.

The updates in Radiant Historia: Perfect Chronology are phenomenal.

While the allure of these two franchises coming together may be the draw for many, the surprising depth to its combat and the replayability that it offers are the real highlights.

I enjoyed my time with Crash 4 and would easily recommend it to any like-minded fans of the series. Though there aren’t many meaningful changes to how the game is played, it’s still a fun jaunt, and what new content is here is mostly welcomed, despite some unnecessary modern additions. Crash games don’t need a long list of skins or collectibles, but they do need to take a bigger step forward. In a sense, Crash needs to stop living in the 90s.

428: Shibuya Scramble left an empty feeling in my stomach once I had finished, as I realized my time with these characters had come to a close and no new significant time would be spent with them. It’s a familiar feeling, one that punctuates the end of stories that I was always sad to have to finally put down.

I loved every moment of Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom and could easily recommend it as an entry point to the genre for newcomers as well as longtime fans of the genre. Developer Level-5 has truly outdone themselves with this one and I would just like to say to them, thank you for the adventure.

A terrific bundle, and without a doubt the best way to experience the decade-old series. Offering not only convenience but a hearty technical upgrade, anyone looking to catch up before Kingdom Hearts III couldn’t do any better than picking up this rather affordable bundle. That said, gamers and Kingdom Hearts fanatics who have already grabbed this game on PlayStation 3 should consider their purchase a little more rigorously — without new bells or whistles, you might feel the tiniest bit swindled for buying the same remakes twice.

Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition is the definitive next-gen Devil May Cry experience. This iteration took what was already one of the best action games of the last console generation and refined everything from the performance to the visuals. Even if you’ve experienced this game before, it’s worth a second look for all of the added enhancements. And if you missed it the first time around, this is the version to play. Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition really is the whole package and a must-play for action fans.

Ubisoft Mainz's good choices started early with Anno 117: Pax Romana. It picked the perfect time period to showcase the prime of Roman city building, and packaged that in a user-friendly way that has more depth than meets the eye. There are some pacing issues with the campaign, and I have questions about the longevity of single-player modes, but that does not take away from the fact that this is an excellent city builder that tells a Roman tale with the grandeur it deserves.

As a newcomer to the Two Point series, I was pleasantly surprised by how intuitive and accessible Two Point Museum is, but that's not to say there isn't still a decent challenge in trying to manage and maintain the different museum sites. Having since played both Two Point Hospital and Two Point Campus, I can confidently say that Museum is the strongest entry in the series so far. Everything Two Point Museum sets out to do, it achieves with flying colors. From the core gameplay loop to the specifics of Expeditions and arrangement, everything comes very naturally and effortlessly. I have already clocked up over 25 hours so far, and I can't imagine getting bored with this game any time soon.

Ball X Pit is far more than just a game that riffs on the Vampire Survivors formula. It's a game that offers a little something for everyone, with incredibly addictive bullet-hell action, thoughtful township building that doubles as a Roguelike progression system, and on-screen chaos through insane power-ups that make it nearly impossible to track every projectile racing across your screen. It's a hands-on and involved version of its contemporaries, and a truly unique option for anyone who loves the genre. Don't expect jaw-dropping visuals or a tearjerker of a story. But the trade-off of epic gameplay is more than worth it here. In short, you'll have a ball. In fact, you'll have tonnes of them.

Shin Megami Tensei V is easily one of the best entries, if not the best entry in the series. After over 30 hours with the game, I’ve been constantly amazed and Atlus definitely managed to bring back the franchise to new heights. Now here’s hoping Shin Megami Tensei manages to reach the same popularity Persona did. [Review in Progress]

A fantastic game. While there are some minor flaws, I couldn’t put my controller down. Aside from being one of my personal favorite games of this year, it also holds a special place in my heart as one of the best Ubisoft games I have ever played. If you are a fan of the TV series, as well as The Stick of Truth, I highly recommend purchasing this game.

If Found… features some of the most realistic, human characters, that I’ve experienced in recent memory.

Even with its technological hangups, the PC port of Horizon Zero Dawn brings an experience wholly unlike anything else I've ever played.

While Trails Beyond the Horizon excels especially in its combat and RPG systems, it also succeeds with its main story and side content, such as the Grim Garten, character relationship system, and side quests that all tell unique stories worth listening to. Trails Beyond the Horizon is a game that deserves recognition and is up there with some of the best the genre has to offer.

When living vicariously through your Sims, Island Living is definitely worth it if you choose to move them to the island itself, even without choosing the mermaid life. However, off of the island, the expansion will have much less of an impact on your regular Sims’ daily life, unlike that of the previous Seasons expansion. If there was the option to schedule a vacation, like in Outdoor Retreat, in addition to brief visits, I think it would have more of an impact on the overall game. In the end though, Island Living is a solid expansion that is definitely worth the time of both the casual and avid Sims player.