Dead as Disco doesn’t just flirt with the beat-em-up formula; it remixes it into something effortlessly stylish and easy to pick up, even in its early-access state. Its blend of music-driven combat, eccentric boss fights, and pick-up-and-play accessibility makes it a standout for both casual players and genre fans alike. While it’s still finding its footing in areas like depth and progression, what’s already here is bursting with personality and promise. If the developers can build on this foundation, Dead as Disco has all the makings of a cult-favorite brawler that’s as fun as hell to feel as it is to play.

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.

Saros stands tall as a bold evolution for Housemarque, proving the studio wasn’t content with simply recreating the magic of Returnal. Instead, it refines and expands on it in meaningful ways by pairing its punishing bullet-hell combat with smarter progression systems, broader accessibility ideas, and a narrative that trades clarity for intrigue. Arjun’s relentless, emotionally driven journey through Carcosa gives the experience a fiery contrast to Returnal’s isolation, while the “come back stronger” philosophy is felt in every run, every failure, and every hard-earned breakthrough back at The Passage. It can be overwhelming and at times unforgiving, but that tension is exactly what makes its victories so intoxicating. And by turning struggle into growth and persistence into something deeply rewarding, Saros cements itself as a serious GOTY contender and a lot more than just a sequel in spirit.

Gambonanza is a Roguelike that absolutely feels like a team taking what made Balatro incredible and applying it to chess. This might seem derivative at first, but it's pulled off so well in the end that it ultimately feels like its own amazing thing entirely. Initial pacing at the beginning can feel a little slow and repetitive, but once you start unlocking new items via progression and simply learn the game, it becomes a deep and surprisingly intense loop of incredible and different-feeling chess action. Imitation or flattery, I don't really care. Gambonanza rules.

Bus Bound is the type of game that you'll love if you love simulators, but you might enjoy how peaceful it feels even if you don't usually play this style of game. It's a polished game that delivers what you expect and more. The world alone is beautiful to look at, and the number of pedestrians and other cars makes it feel alive. Aside from a few issues with handling and passenger feedback, the only complaint I have is that I didn't get to try the game with multiplayer or while using a steering wheel controller.

Neverness to Everness delivers a stylish, lively city packed with plenty to do, and its generous gacha system makes it easy to enjoy everything it has to offer without constant frustration. But beneath all that charm, the bloated gameplay formula starts to show, especially in its story and combat, which struggle to stand out in an already crowded field of other known gacha giants. If you’re already invested in similar games, this can be a fun, low-pressure addition to your routine. Just don’t expect it to reinvent the wheel since it’s more of a comfortable, content-rich ride with a few slightly annoying bumps along the way.

Invincible VS is a brilliantly brutal extension of the comic and Amazon Prime cartoon, offering up visceral, fluid battling and a genuinely entertaining single-player mode. The AI feels incredibly smart, adjusting its strategies mid-fight and creating a fluid pace for combat. It is missing a few key actors, but everyone does such a wonderful job, it doesn't hurt that badly. If you're looking for a way to pass the time until season 5 of the show hits in 2027, Invincible VS is a bloody good time.

Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era is a superb entry into the series and brings the game back to what works. While the complex gameplay might not be for everyone, it offers a lot of freedom in how you go about making your playstyle for each scenario. The games are long, but there are also plenty of other modes to hone your skills, which is greatly appreciated. It's still in development, so there are a few kinks to work out, but whatever the future holds for Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era will undoubtedly be incredible.

MotoGP 26 continues on the legacy of this series being the best racing sim on two wheels, and yet it's also more approachable than ever with its refined and tweaked "Arcade" options as well as a shift in focus to a rider-based handling system. The racing itself is thrilling, straightforward enough, and has a high skill-ceiling that feels rewarding to work towards. An overall presentation package that isn't quite as good as some contemporaries is really the only "blemish" on another exciting and slick MotoGP experience. Oh, and the bikes look awesome in Photo Mode.

Aphelion is a cinematic masterclass in storytelling. From the very beginning, you can tell that every moment of the game will be important. While it can't seem to keep up that same sort of engagement in the moment-to-moment gameplay, it works well enough to keep driving you forward. A short and enticing space-age mystery thriller that can satisfy from a story standpoint, but leaves a little to be desired in terms of gameplay.

Moomintroll: Winter's Warmth does what it came to do: criticize the injustice of winter existing at all. The game makes you reflect on existential dread, dedications to your partner, chores, and the adorableness of life as a whole. Some controls and mechanics could have been explained better, but this is a great, snowy, cozy game that adds some variety to a genre that's oversaturated with farm life.

After five games, the Sudden Strike series has established itself as one of the best real-time strategy titles available, and Sudden Strike 5 keeps this legacy alive and well. The large maps give you plenty of tactical flexibility, unit pricing is well-balanced, and the new smart management features are a lifesaver for anyone allergic to micromanagement. This is not a revolutionary release, and I have some gripes with durability and effectiveness of certain unit types, but Sudden Strike 5 remains a welcome take on a winning formula.

While Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream isn't the full-blown life simulator some people may have been hoping for, fans of the original will feel right at home. Despite lacking any concrete depth, I'm still impressed by the wacky scenarios, conversations, and relationships that blossom. It's been a smash hit in the Valentine household, and that won't change for quite some time. I never thought we'd see another Tomodachi Life game, and I'm so happy that we did.

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.

With some intriguing world-building and phenomenal choices, Tides of Tomorrow is a game that warrants some real investment. It isn't perfect by any metric, but it is good enough to draw you in and reward your time. Seeing everything through, even when it's tough, gives you a sensation of completion that very few games can achieve. With the innovative Social-Link system, there's a real opportunity to create a new sort of way for players to interact, but it hasn't been perfected just yet. Tides of Tomorrow isn't the next big game, but it is a game that will stay with people long after they finish it.

Ys Memoire: Revelations in Celceta is a furiously-paced action JRPG that has a big world to explore. It's a world that feels great to explore, and you'll often feel rewarded for doing so. Finding little alcoves and secret areas is always enjoyable, and the way the game urges you to do so is incredibly natural. The bosses are a little weak, and it is a bit on the shorter side of the JRPG spectrum at twenty hours, but I feel like that's a genuine strength of the game. If you've never played Ys before, this is a great entry point for any newcomer.

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.

Jay and Silent Bob: Chronic Blunt Punch is a mediocre beat 'em up that tries its hardest to capture the spirit of Kevin Smith's filmography. In many ways, it does do that, and has elements that feel like they are right out of a View Askewniverse movie. Sadly, the combat in Chronic Blunt Punch is so bland and lifeless, and is an absolute technical nightmare. Fans of View Askewniverse will likely crack a smile at the game's absurd story, but that's where the good times come to an end.

Replaced is a visually stunning 2D platformer that ambitiously strives to give a thrilling and emotional experience in the still relatively exclusive cyberpunk niche. Alongside its numerous incredibly detailed, hand-crafted backdrops, its splendidly fluid combat system feels dynamic and addictingly fun to play from one encounter to the next. That said, the game evidently still needs some polishing in terms of combat balance, along with notably disjointed character movement when traversing through each zone's platform mechanics. However, that doesn't diminish what the game has accomplished from its years of development and clear commitment to detail. It's a truly memorable indie experience that you shouldn't miss out on this year.

Vampire Crawlers is a strong contender for my 2026 Game of the Year. If it weren't for some difficulty issues that need tweaking, it would already have taken that spot, Grand Theft Auto 6 be damned. The gameplay loop is fun and addictive, rewarding experimentation and offering countless opportunities for different builds. Exploring dungeons has never been more fun, and I'm far more eager to see more Vampire Crawlers content than a sequel to Vampire Survivors.

ShantyTown is a cozy game that can easily make you lose track of time as you set up each location however you like. It isn't this big game that you'll play for hours on end, but it is a game that you'll feel really honors the time you spend with it. This is a game you can play in one evening, or for hours if you want to dive that deep. It's fun, well-made, and gorgeous when you finish a location. ShantyTown is a cozy town builder you can enjoy at your own pace, and that's something incredible.

Cthulhu: The Cosmic Abyss successfully nails the elements I love most about cosmic horror: the crushing weight of thalassophobia, a dense atmosphere, the chilling descent of humans into madness, and Cthulhu himself. I mean, we usually watch civilians become his victims in most stories, but in this one, we have scientists losing their grip and believing his mad cult, on top of some investigative systems that are genuinely clever. So it is very interesting! However, there were some stumbles along the way that were hard to ignore and ultimately took some of the shine off the overall experience. Ultimately, the game did make me lose my sanity, but not always for the reasons I expected. While the atmosphere is great, the lack of technical polish in the latter half of the game is a significant hurdle. If Big Bad Wolf can iron out the performance following launch, this will be an indispensable title for fans of the genre. For now, it's a brilliant but bruised descent into the abyss.

I'm sad that Gecko Gods didn't ultimately resonate much with me. It's a game with clear indie charm and care poured into it, but also one that never clicks in terms of puzzles, platforming, or exploration. The presentation is nice, but it's also held back by many technical hiccups, both cosmetic and core progression-based alike. The devs do seem eager to keep improving this one, but it unfortunately wasn't quite ready for release.

MOUSE: P.I. For Hire embodies a magnificent triple-threat of retro stylings, managing a careful balancing act between noir theming, cartoony visuals, and vintage FPS gameplay. The gameplay is fast, responsive, and above all else, fun as all get out, while the story and characters manage to be intriguing in that classic pulp novel fashion while also being entertaining to watch and talk to. It draws you in like a detective magazine, getting you invested in the state of the city, while keeping you merrily chugging along with good ol’ cartoony violence. It’s not a revolutionary game as far as the FPS genre goes, but considering its adherence to multiple kinds of retro aesthetics, I don’t think being revolutionary was the mission statement here.

Pokémon Champions feels like a work in progress, in a bad way. While the battles are fine and the QoL improvements are a godsend, there's a distinct feeling that the product is unfinished and lacks vital content that will be rationed over time. Throw in the bugs, and the result is a game that I might want to check out in six months or a year, but doesn't have enough quality content to attract me now.​​​​​​​

Gunboat God feels like a game caught between flashes of brilliance and moments of frustration. It absolutely nails the things that make shmups so addictive: slick gunplay, a strong sense of style, and a surprisingly charming narrative that gives the whole ride a bit more personality than you’d expect. But that enjoyment is often held back by its rough balancing, and (occasionally) overwhelming level design, especially early on. Still, there’s a solid, entertaining shoot-'em-up underneath it all, and the more you unlock and experiment, the more it starts to come together. It’s not a perfectly smooth sail, but for players willing to stick with it, there’s enough charm and chaos here to make the journey and fight back to the Citadel worthwhile.

Regions of Ruin: Runegate is what I wanted from Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria. However, it also has refreshing features that set it apart from a number of games I'm used to playing. The story is easy to jump into and doesn't get unnecessarily complicated, and the gameplay is well-explained and straightforward. This is the kind of game that I would recommend even to people who don't go for 2D games normally, because it still has the feeling that you get from exploring in 3D games, thanks to its design. Overall, Regions of Ruin: Runegate is an adventure that you can play at your own pace, as it respects your time.

The PlayStation 5 release of Starfield was the game's second chance, one where it could have been shaped by player feedback, kept out of Baldur's Gate 3's shadow, and shown to a whole new audience in a fresh light. That chance has been wasted, as what's here isn't that much different from the 2023 release. Starfield is somehow bloated and yet empty, overly complex and yet lacking. It's a universe of wasted potential, one that struggles to get the player invested in its reams of content. It's not a bad game by any means, but it's definitely lacking in substance, and anyone seeking an experience with the same level of depth and engagement as Bethesda's previous outings will want to look elsewhere.

KuloNiku: Bowl Up! is a short but solid entry in the world of cozy games. If you like games like Cooking Mama or Tavern Talk, then you'll probably enjoy this. It has a warmth that's perfect for running a restaurant that serves soups. I know I'll keep revisiting this game just for the joy of its cooking system and for the delightful nonsense that is the existence of cooking competitions called Meatbrawls. I sincerely hope that Gambir Studio either expands on KuloNiku: Bowl Up! in the future or that the developers simply continue creating cozy games, because their style is perfect for me.

People of Note is a game that’s positively bursting with love for classic RPGs, music theory and culture, and the people who like both. It’s got an earnest, interesting story with diverse, likable characters, and smartly-designed, cleverly-implemented combat and stat-building systems. Compared to some similar RPGs, it’s a little on the leaner side, and the relatively minor presence of rhythm mechanics is disappointing. Still, overall, it’s a rock-solid, highly-enjoyable experience, and I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who likes good, ol’ fashioned turn-based combat and musical references. Also, if and when they release an official soundtrack, I will play it on loop until my speakers wear out. Especially the Irish battle music, that track is straight fire.

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.

MARVEL MaXimum Collection brings together some heavy hitters from the 1990s in terms of comic book video games. Featuring six titles across thirteen total versions, this superheroic collection is a wave of nostalgia that is well worth the price of admission if you've ever been a fan of Marvel Comics. The games are a blast, and it also features some excellent bonus content. Online appears to be rather dead, unfortunately, so keep that in mind before you jump in.

Legacy of Kain: Ascendance is the first new game in the franchise since 2003's Defiance. It really misses the mark on quite a few things, not the least of which is its story, which tries valiantly but just doesn't succeed in a meaningful way. In many ways, it's a step backwards and makes the franchise's most defining feature feel like a throwaway. It also just feels so bad to play, and if you were even a casual fan of Legacy of Kain back in the day, there's not much here I can really recommend outside of hearing Michael Bell and Simon Templeman again.

Super Meat Boy 3D isn't exactly a massive leap for the franchise when compared to other side-scrollers that have made the jump to a new dimension, but that's okay. What's here is the high-level, fluid, and precise platforming you'd expect, and that fans of the series have come to adore. Yes, you will die thousands of times by the end, but that's also the point. There are small design hiccups here and there in terms of a few levels that don't feel fair, a couple less memorable bosses, and the added depth sometimes playing tricks on your brain. At the end of the day, however, Super Meat Boy 3D is a blast, and I'm looking forward to shaving off tenths of seconds from my record times on each and every level.

Darwin's Paradox! is a special little mascot platformer that feels like a throwback to the PS1-era, but with all the sheen and quality of life improvements of the modern day. It's overflowing with charm, smart ideas, and fun gameplay that's all paced perfectly from chapter to chapter. As adorable as the game is, the narrative doesn't hit the highs of the Pixar films it seems to be inspired by, and it ends pretty abruptly on a cliffhanger. That, combined with some occasional checkpointing headaches are really the only blemishes on an otherwise completely lovely experience. Play this game. We don't get ones like this often.

Life is Strange: Reunion feels like something I wasn’t sure we’d ever actually get—a sincere, tender, and heartfelt goodbye to Max and Chloe that understands why people fell in love with them in the first place. It’s far from perfect, with its technical hiccups, underdeveloped side cast, and that lingering illusion of choice holding it back from true greatness. But where it truly matters, it delivers. The mystery narrative holds its ground with a slew of twists and red herrings thrown at you. Most importantly, the emotional depth (finally) lands with a kind of honesty the series has been chasing for a few years. This isn’t about surpassing the original; it’s about making peace with its past. And somehow, against all the stacked odds, Deck Nine manages to pull that off in a redeeming fashion. If you’ve been on this journey since the beginning, it feels like closure, the kind that quietly sticks with you long after the credits roll as you're waving goodbye.

For all the good World of Warcraft: Midnight does, there are decisions being made that hold it back from being an all-time great expansion. I've said it before, but I'll keep saying it: the add-on changes feel like they were done with no real plan in place. Preys are a great feature, but I want to see a long-term vision here, especially because Delves are now delivering that vision. I'm excited to play through Midnight's seasons and experience everything the game offers heading into The Last Titan, but I also hope that Blizzard lets the dev team fully cook. It feels like they didn't with Midnight, and it's a shame.

Mega Man Star Force Legacy Collection brings three of the iconic Capcom mascot's most niche titles. Star Force continues the tradition that started with 2001's Battle Network, combining card-based combat with light RPG elements and exploration. The games themselves have aged rather poorly, with somewhat basic combat and a game world that is determined to tell you what to do at every turn. So long as you don't mind dealing with some oddball design choices and long-winded stories, you could get a lot of enjoyment out of this unique, albeit flawed, Mega Man card game.

Marathon is hands down the best extraction shooter on the market. From the gunplay to the way the game handles the distribution of story, there's a lot to love in Marathon. While the quality of life could be improved in some respects and some of the UI elements could be adjusted, the overall game stands as a testament that Bungie knows how to make a good game. The biggest issue the game will face is appealing to the less hardcore players and getting them to stick around, but with Bungie continuing to iterate on the game, things will likely work out just fine for this unbelievably fun extraction shooter.

MLB The Show 26 is still one of the best sports games in town, but it's starting to show its flaws. Despite all the advancements and positive additions, it's getting harder to ignore some of its issues. For the first time in recent years, I'm not sure if MLB The Show is worth the money. For all the good the game does, I can't keep ignoring all of the mounting issues.

Ariana and the Elder Codex is a game that gives you exactly what you see on the tin. It's a straightforward 2D action RPG platformer that won't take up much of your time, but it won't break the mold either. If you are an enthusiast of this style, it is worth giving it a go for the gameplay, since the narrative is unremarkable. However, if you don't care much for action platformers or still have others in the genre to cross off your backlog, then Ariana and the Elder Codex might stay on the sidelines for a while.

Screamer ends up being exactly the kind of surprise that reminds you why you fell in love with racing games in the first place as a kid. It’s bold, a little chaotic, and completely committed to putting gameplay front and center, even when a few rough edges manage to show through. Between the unique twin-stick handling, the risk-reward chaos of the Echo System, and a story that leans hard into its over-the-top anime inspirations, it manages to carve out an identity that feels both fresh and nostalgic. It’s not perfect, but it doesn’t need to be because when everything clicks during racing, Screamer is an absolute thrill to play. For anyone craving an arcade racer with personality and depth with a riveting storyline, this is one worth taking for a spin at full throttle.

Crimson Desert combines all the phenomenal aspects of some of the most notable titles of the past decades. It has the sense of discovery like Elden Ring, a deeply engaging and dense world like Skyrim, unpredictable moment-to-moment gameplay like Red Dead Redemption 2, and the exciting exploration and overall feel of the latest Zelda games.

Like most of the Sherman tanks exposed to the elements in underfunded museums, Sherman Commander is a work of art that could really use another finishing pass. The game accurately captures the role of a tank commander in World War 2, and the individual units are exciting to lead, but the amount of micromanagement required means you spend more time staring at the map than inside your tank. Still, there are moments where it all comes together, and you get to see why this is a game like no other.

There are good ideas in 1348 Ex Voto, but they're undercut by the shoddy implementation of its systems. The voice cast carries the game, with several amazing performances woven throughout. Unfortunately, the whole experience is letdown by a variety of glitches, fundamental design flaws with the combat, confusing levels, and several jarring story transitions that make it seem as if 1348 Ex Voto was shoved out the door before it was ready.

Pokémon Pokopia is a truly special, once-in-a-lifetime game that changes the entire landscape of the genre. There may be nothing new or revolutionary here, but that's not the point. We were sold a cute, fun, and charming Pokémon spin-off that could hold our cozy gaming hearts over until something like Tomodachi Life or the next Animal Crossing releases. What we got was a game that questions whether or not we'd be willing to put Pokémon Pokopia down when those games come out.

In its best moments, John Carpenter's Toxic Commando is an unbelievably good time. Even in its worst moments, it's still a pretty solid zombie shooter with some great set pieces. That being said, any problems with the game can and probably will be fixed in time. The janky bots and frustrating solo player experience definitely make things a little rough around the edges, but underneath that is a fantastic game that will absolutely exceed your expectations if you give it a chance.

Overall, I really enjoyed my time with Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly Remake. While it may not necessarily be as scary as the original released in 2003, it does have its moments of greatness when it comes to scares, and there will be times that even the biggest survival horror fans have to take a breather. The stars of the show here are the atmosphere and story, both of which are so incredibly well-made, do the original justice, and validate the need for this remake to see the light of day. However, the combat is a major let down and definitely won't be for everyone. The controls feel outdated, the movement speed is excruciatingly slow, and those two mixed together can make for a rather frustrating experience at times. Still, if you were a die-hard fan of the original Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly, you'll enjoy what Team Ninja and Koei Tecmo have created here.

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.​​​

Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition may be irresponsibly contributing to poor naming conventions in video games, but it's still an absolutely wonderful experience. Unfortunately, it's difficult to recommend it to series veterans, as there's nothing here beyond the performance upgrades as far as new content goes. The performance upgrades are pretty good, and come in at a fair price of five bucks, but unless you've got another 50 hours to kill, you'll be doing just as well replaying it on the original Switch.

WWE 2K26 isn't a perfect game. It suffers from too many technical issues, and I'm not sold on the tweaks to its core gameplay being a net positive, even though they make sense. That said, WWE 2K26 does so many good things that it's still worth it. This year's version of The Island is a massive improvement, and I cannot stop playing it, especially progressing through Tower runs. CM Punk's Showcase is an excellent presentation, and MyRISE is another successful story. Overall, WWE 2K26 is still another solid entry in the WWE 2K franchise, but I can't help but wonder where it could have landed. It reminds me of the recent LA Knight spot from this year's Men's Elimination Chamber match. He's got the crowd in the palm of his hand, he's ready for a big move off the rope...and he slips. He's still over with the crowd, and I think that's how things will ultimately land with WWE 2K26, but I have more reservations this year than I did last year.

I expected a little more from iRacing Arcade. What's here is a very simple and easy to understand racer with a very approachable learning curve, which makes it a decent entry point for genre newcomers. It is pretty consistently fun, but it also makes some confusing decisions between available game modes, totally omits some base level racing game features you'd expect, and has a lack of gameplay depth even compared to other arcade-style titles. It's still a good time and worth checking out (especially at the price point), but I don't think it'll become a staple of my racing game lineup.

Pokémon FireRed & LeafGreen have their fair share of annoyances, especially for people who have only played the modern games, but once you get adjusted to them, there's a solid and fun Pokémon experience to be had. Anyone with a nostalgia for Kanto will be right at home here, but the slower pace might make it trickier for newbies to get on board. Just be ready to take off the rose-tinted glasses.

Legacy of Kain: Defiance Remastered is the latest in Crystal Dynamics' efforts to bring the franchise back from the dead. It is packed to the brim with content, including deleted levels and a playable demo of one of the franchise's most compelling canceled entries. If you've been exploring the series for the first time thanks to the remasters, you're getting one of the most outstanding mainline titles in the franchise, and a deep dive into what made this game so special to begin with.

In Scott Pilgrim EX, you can truly feel the care that the developers at Tribute Games poured into every character, scenario, enemy, and boss. It is a sequel that respects its roots while remaining unafraid to evolve, representing a massive leap forward compared to the first title. It perfectly blends everything a high-quality beat ‘em up needs with the franchise’s signature nerdy humor. It is an unexpected and extremely fun way to expand Bryan Lee O’Malley’s universe, being literally impossible not to laugh throughout the journey or to have a blast with its nonsensical plots and over-the-top bosses. Ultimately, it is the perfect kind of beat ‘em up for a pizza night with friends – and this one even comes with a bit of extra spice to make things even more interesting. The only major downside is that its main story is too short, and I finished it wanting even more.

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.

Reigns: The Witcher does pretty much exactly what it sets out to do. It's a fun and humorous time that represents aspects of the world of The Witcher well. While it could do better in some respects, there's a lot to enjoy here. If you're a fan of The Witcher, it's a great way to have a new experience in the world, and if you aren't a fan, then it's still a good time with some very dark and silly moments mixed in. Reigns: The Witcher is a great take on the world of The Witcher and is an enjoyable, new way to experience it.

Resident Evil Requiem is everything that RE fans could want out of the next entry in the series and more. It walks a tightrope of horror and action, but has perfected this balance in a way that delivers a heart-stopping, adrenaline-pumping good time, regardless of what kind of RE fan you are.

I enjoyed Poppy Playtime Chapter 5. It's a strong episode, but it's also a slower-paced chapter that has a heavy focus on exploration and information. While I love that part of horror games, players who want more action might not like that. However, there are still a few intense chase sequences that are packed with action, so the balance doesn't feel entirely tipped in one direction.

Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition brings together five different versions of the classic Ubisoft platformer. The presentation and design of the package is stellar, acting almost like a living museum to celebrate the game's impeccable legacy. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot of variety here between each game variation, and it feels like there could have been more time spent on polishing up Rayman 2 and 3 for inclusion. As it stands, Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition is a great celebration of the first game, but leaves out his most entertaining adventures.

Love Eternal delivers on the promise of a psychological-horror platformer in most ways. Its setting and presentation create a world where you're never quite sure what reality you're in, and a big mechanical switch-up halfway through is a wonderful, creative surprise that I'll be thinking about for a long time. The game gets more meta in ways than I could've predicted, and left my own brain scrambled entirely by the end of the short four-hour experience. As a platformer, it's easy to understand, though the unpredictable momentum of movement unfortunately keeps it from feeling as precise as genre enthusiasts will surely prefer. Still, it's one of those "play in one sitting" type of games that you won't want to miss if anything about the premise speaks to you.

Mario Tennis Fever is one of the best Mario sports games in years. Does it solve all the issues we've seen in the genre over the past decade? No, and sadly, it suffers a lot of the same problems when it comes to depth. Thankfully, the one thing it gets right is its incredible gameplay, which keeps you coming back for more. It's not perfect, but Mario Tennis Fever is a much-needed step in the right direction.

The first 30 minutes of Calamity Angels hooked me. The tension system seemed like a great novelty for turn-based combat, and the contrasting character archetypes brought fun personalities. Unfortunately, the game spent the next 10 hours spinning its wheels, forgoing any gameplay development and turning its entire runtime into a mind-numbing loop. If Compile Heart had fully fleshed out its own innovations, Calamity Angels: Special Delivery could have been a compelling game, but as it stands, it is just a shallow and forgettable experience.

High on Life 2 accomplishes an incredibly rare feat, as it's a sequel that improves every single aspect of the original while forging its own unique path. The addition of the skateboard is a game changer, and the majestic insanity that you can concoct is just oodles of fun. Squanch Games had a lot of work to do in order to both distance itself from its creator and ensure the foundation was solid, which they did in spades. High on Life 2's absurd story, impeccable combat and beautiful world are just a few reasons to explore this sinfully funny shooter.

In Paranormasight: The Mermaid’s Curse, everything feels familiar if you played The Seven Mysteries of Honjo. It cultivates the same structure, tone, and even soundtrack, but with some fine-tuning to the gameplay and a narrative that doubles down on psychological suspense. It has no direct ties to the first game, so you can jump right into the sequel and enjoy it to the fullest without the previous experience. Square Enix continues this visual novel series with immense personality. It delivers a complex, layered story filled with twists, supported by a simple yet efficient game design. The meta-narrative touches remain the star of the show, binding story and gameplay into a creative and immersive package that is simply hard to put down.

Styx: Blades of Greed is a must-play for stealth enthusiasts. It's not some incredible game that's going to blow you away on every level, but it is a title that knows what it wants to do and does it well. The story is serviceable, and the problems aren't so bad that they detract from the fun parts of the game. If you've played the originals in the series, then you'll have an excellent time. If you're new to the genre as a whole, you'll still find yourself having a lot of fun with the gameplay. With the mix of classic game design and some new age evolution, Styx is back and better than ever before.

Revolgear Zero is an enjoyable and satisfying retro shmup experience that will undoubtedly satisfy the genre's biggest fans. It's nowhere near as challenging as some of the genre's juggernauts, nor is it as impressive, but there's still plenty to enjoy here, especially at a discounted price tag. I just wish there were more to see and do in Revolgear Zero to attract those who aren't hardcore shump fans.

REANIMAL stands as both a confident continuation of Tarsier Studios’ haunting design philosophy and a cautious step into new territory. While its ambitious scope occasionally exposes cracks through rushed narrative beats and safe puzzle design, its oppressive atmosphere, striking visuals, and linked-up co-op gameplay carry the experience from beginning to end. For some, it may not reach the same tightly crafted heights as Little Nightmares, but it successfully captures that same uneasy magic that made those games special. It isn’t perfect, much like all things in this vast expanse of the medium or the horror genre, but it’s a bold and unsettling co-op journey that shows Tarsier’s signature style is still very much alive.

Super Bomberman Collection is a must-own for anyone who has ever enjoyed this franchise. With a grand total of seven games, including many that are reaching US shores for the first time, snappy presentation, and tons of behind-the-scenes goodies, you really can't go wrong. There are a few unfortunate technical issues, including some problems with audio that can cause the game to go out of sync, but the overall package here is stupendous. For only twenty bucks, you are getting a spectacular amount of content.

Not only is Romeo is a Dead Man the most delightfully Suda-flavored experience I’ve had in a long time, but it’s presented in its optimal form. No meddling from other companies or directors, no hardware limitations, just unfettered, bloody action and unrelenting, delightful weirdness. It’s consistently fun to play and fascinating to experience, from the sudden, wild shifts in tone, level, and story setpieces to the surprisingly tense boss fights and emotional monologues. No matter how dense it all gets, there’s always a method to the madness, a consistent, player-friendly path forward that ensures you can keep making progress at a steady clip, even when the game gets notably difficult. Any complaints I could make are nitpicks at best; if you also love Suda’s works, you owe it to yourself to play this one, and if you’ve never played any of his games before, this is an excellent one to start with.

Dead Pets is a messy, loud, yet deeply sincere indie experience that wears its heart on its ripped denim jacket. What initially feels like a quirky mashup of life-sim choice-driven chaos and rhythm-driven rebellion slowly reveals itself as an empathetic, often uncomfortable reflection on adulthood, identity, and the pressures uniquely placed on women. Through Gordy’s self-destruction, absurdist mini-games, and riot grrrl-fueled soundtrack, Dead Pets tackles feminism, mental health, and societal expectations with surprising nuance and bite. It doesn’t always stick to every gameplay note in my eyes, but emotionally, Dead Pets lands hard—proving that even on the worst days, there’s still music to play and jam to, friends to lean on, and another morning to stumble into headstrong after being a drunken mess.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties is a remake that dares to change just enough to feel fascinating—and frustrating in equal measure. There’s genuine heart here, especially in the expanded Morning Glory content, both games' sub-stories, and Mine’s surprisingly compelling Dark Ties storyline. Yet, those highs are constantly at odds with combat changes and narrative deviations that feel less like refinement and more like overcorrection. As someone who deeply adores the original Yakuza 3, this remake constantly left me torn between appreciation and disappointment, because it’s occasionally brilliant yet so undeniably polarizing at some levels, serving as fine evidence for me that not every black sheep in a series needs to be remade.

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.

The early access release of Task Force Admiral makes a loud entrance, with an all-encompassing depiction of naval warfare and carrier operations. This obsession with realism is followed to a fault, and the game suffers from the clunky interface endemic to most deep-dive strategy titles. None of that was on my mind as the sirens blared and torpedoes homed in on my carrier. War may be hell, but this is strategy heaven. [Early Access Provisional Score = 90]

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined introduces new systems and quality-of-life improvements that streamline the original experience and make it more palatable for modern audiences. The game still takes its sweet time to show its cards, though. JRPGs are a genre that demands patience and Dragon Quest VII Reimagined asks for a tad more. Still, if you can embrace the episodic storytelling format and make the most of the Party Chat and Vocation system, you'll find that your journey through time was well worth it.

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?

I Hate This Place had a lot going for it, with a unique setting, an interesting isometric layout, and crafting at its core. However, it doesn't reach its full potential, and all of its systems are lackluster, resulting in an experience that is underwhelming overall. The resource economy is broken, the day and night cycle feels pointless, and the controls on consoles are so frustrating that the end result is headache-inducing, rather than an enjoyable experience. There are some moments of greatness, especially in its stealth gameplay and paranormal environments, where the exciting nature of the survival horror genre shines through, but those moments are quickly fleeting. I do recommend I Hate This Place to survival horror fans if there is nothing else to play and they're on a budget, but I wouldn't go into this game expecting the next big thing.

Don’t Stop, Girlypop! fits a very specific niche that has been ignored for far too long: a game like DOOM or Unreal Tournament to be played while wearing a pink bow and long nails. This game is for people who want to play classic shooters but are tired of the drab visuals, and there is no better way to replace that than with a Y2K-inspired hyper pop pink space glitter fantasy.

Earth Must Die is an unapologetically hilarious and campy sci-fi romp adventure with perhaps one of the best playable villains in recent memory. This game vigorously scratches a nostalgia itch that will undoubtedly be felt more strongly by some (like me) more than others, and a generational gap may leave younger players culturally ostracized from this experience for one reason or another. However, for the demographic that it's definitely meant to serve, Size Five Games has knocked it out of the park yet again. The gameplay itself and point-and-click puzzle mechanics can feel a bit finicky and frustrating at times in light of how much everything else shines so vividly, but that's still not enough to diminish the whimsical, nostalgic spark this game provides.

Animal Crossing: New Horizons - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition isn't going to break any new ground or change the world, but if you're looking to get a spiffy upgrade for your new machine, it's potentially worth diving into. If you're tired of the desert island theme, though, there's absolutely nothing here that will remedy that.

Blightstone has a solid, strong foundation in terms of its combat and battle mechanics. The use of environmental hazards and interactive battle arenas is what helps the game stand out. The rest of the game feels like something of a slog, however, with some harsh RNG and an inconsistent pace that makes Blightstone feel like it can't get out of the blocks. There's something fun hidden here, but it is sadly overshadowed by a game that feels more interested in punishing you for simple things than allowing you to learn. [Early Access Score = 60]

Time passes equally for everyone on this planet, but it feels like ages have passed since we got a good, encyclopaedic antiquity simulator for PC. Strategos looks and feels like a finished product that can deliver engaging, realistic battles for you to flex that armchair general muscle on. The minuscule budget is on display at times, but Hannibal was primarily concerned with winning his battles instead of smelling the flowers. Strategos delivers where it matters most and has all the hallmarks of a real-time strategy classic.

MIO: Memories in Orbit is a dark, challenging Metroidvania Soulslike that perfectly understands what makes this genre so much fun. Combat feels precise and weighty, with fantastic enemy design and one of the most enjoyable Metroidvania maps seen in years. Traversal is incredible, and you'll be in awe of its wonderful music. Sadly, MIO also continues to use outdated Soulslike mechanics, including long, arduous boss runbacks, and the upgrade system is interesting from a thematic standpoint, but ultimately pretty dull.

With a forgettable story and not one memorable character, Philna Fantasy sticks to the basics of an action RPG, offering a gameplay loop that feels all too familiar for anyone who has ever played a dungeon crawler. While playing with the different characters is amusing at first, the game soon runs out of steam because it doesn't bring anything new to the table. The puzzles are creative, and the boss fights are a blast, but they're one-and-done deals. After the credits rolled on my 16-hour playthrough, I didn't want to spend another second with the game.

Kejora is an absolutely charming and ambitious indie platformer adventure that has all the necessary narrative bones for a visually compelling experience. In terms of story, it largely hits the mark. However, the shortfalls in its awkward gameplay, lackluster sound design, and noticeable UI blips stagger that experience to a degree, and it probably could have used more time in the oven on those fronts. Nevertheless, if you're a fan of hand-drawn animation in games, especially of the Ghibli variety, I would say to give it the chance it deserves.

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.

At the end of the day, a bad Metroid Prime game is still a good game and one that I'll happily play any day of the week. As frustrating as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond can be, it's still worth playing and a solid way for Nintendo to end 2025. Is it a must-own Nintendo Switch 2 game? That's something I'm honestly not sure about. On the one hand, I can see it being a great way to introduce people to the Metroid genre in a way that's more accessible than, say, Metroid Dread. On the other hand, Metroid Prime Remastered is right there. Ultimately, Metroid Prime 4 is a game that's worth playing, but it could be so much better.

Octopath Traveler 0 introduces a new town building system to its endless turn-based battles, but doesn't innovate much outside of that. Combat feels fun and powerful, but with this being the fourth game in the series, it could use a touch up. In the end, Octopath Traveler 0 is an incredibly enjoyable JRPG, but one that feels like it's just spinning its wheels at this point. Town building is fun, but ultimately shallow.

Death Howl is a complex, yet easy-to-get-into deck builder that utilizes a slick, stylish mix of Soulslike gameplay systems and card-based combat. The world and story are breathtaking, with outstanding pixel art and ominous, subtle sound design. Combat feels excellent, but if RNG and dying a lot in games isn't your idea of a good time, it may not win you over in that regard.

Cloudheim is, by all accounts, a good game, but it is marred by uncertainty about its direction. A sort of jack of all trades but master of none issue. It is very important to remember this game is still in its early days and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that. In fact, in a few months, I think many of the issues I have with this game will either be solved or be on the way to being solved. Right now, though, Cloudheim struggles with its identity a little too much. If you can craft such a fun world to move about in, why punish me by giving me manual labor to do when I finally go home? The combat, when it works, is ludicrously fun. Using mobs like bowling balls and pins has never been better. The progression systems are a bit overwhelming, and there are probably a few too many in the game as a whole. Becoming a Nordic legend to save the world sounds amazing until you have to stop everything and deal with your overabundance of items in your inventory. [Early Access Provisional Score = 70]

Sleep Awake is absolutely stunning visually and feels like walking through an art installation full of heavy themes and commentary. Combined with the impeccable soundscape crafted by Nine Inch Nails' Robin Finck and some of the best world-building I've ever experienced in a sub-10-hour video game, it's a title that will stick with me for a long time. Some occasional subpar stealth sections and an obtuse puzzle or two are the only blemishes on an otherwise incredible journey that had me riveted from start to finish, with a story and main character that were incredible to witness. I want more of this world and premise. I want a book. I want a movie. I'm not sure that I'll be able to sleep till I get it.

She’s Leaving has a great and unique concept with a solid story, which may be enough for players looking for their next survival-horror fix. However, you shouldn’t go into it hoping for amazing gameplay, since it’s pretty barebones across the board. While engaging with real-life practices of forensics is intriguing, especially if you’re into true crime, everything else revolves around cookie-cutter mechanics to an exhausting extent. The majority of a playthrough consists of finding and using keys, unlocking safes, and running away from a stalker that becomes less scary and more of a nuisance the longer you play. While She’s Leaving isn’t the best option out there for survival-horror enthusiasts, it has enough good stuff, such as interesting forensic mechanics, story, and voice acting, that make it worthwhile for a quick playthrough over a weekend. It’s also important to consider its low price of only $16.99.

Escape From Tarkov has changed significantly on its road to release, but there's little doubt over this being the best that Tarkov has always been. The story mode adds depth and meaning to the game in ways that were sorely missing before, making its standout environment and gameplay actually matter. It may not be the prettiest or the most approachable game, but Escape From Tarkov looks set to remain the premier post-apocalyptic first-person shooter in the market for the foreseeable future.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a fantastic beat 'em up that understands what makes arcade games like X-Men so iconic. It's a touching love letter to both the source material and genre that's a blast to play from start to finish, whether you're playing alone or with friends. Part of the fun is not just experiencing the beat 'em up action, but also falling in love with specific heroes and various combinations to find a playstyle that matches your personal preferences. In an era that has more options than ever for co-op gaming, Marvel Cosmic Invasion is well worth your time and money, whether you're looking to spend a weekend together gaming or keep coming back to see everything the game offers.

Total Chaos is an exciting survival-horror game that follows a man descending into madness within his own mind. The story and combat are the standouts here, as both are engaging enough to keep the player on the edge of their seats, pushing them further into the depths of the game's world to learn more about the protagonist and take down deadlier foes. Discovering the lore of Fort Oasis, the game's main location, and how its hidden meanings connect to the main character's mental state and sickness shares a strong resemblance to Silent Hill 2, and it's fascinating to uncover. The biggest negative is the game's core survival mechanics and how it often feels too punishing because of its lack of resources, to the point that some players might be forced to go back to an earlier save depending on their situation. The extreme lengths it takes to make the player feel hopeless may be too much for the casual player, so it's definitely not a game that could be recommended to everyone.

I was one of the biggest Kirby Air Ride fans back in the day, so the fact that we're getting a sequel to the divisive cult classic is a dream come true. Kirby Air Riders is everything I could have ever wanted and more. It's a project filled with love, passion, and a celebration of all things Kirby. From the robust character roster, surprising depth of customization options, and an impressive amount of content to see, do, and unlock, Kirby Air Riders is easily my favorite racing game of the year. It's a triumph from start to finish, and I can't wait to spend countless hours in City Trial and beyond.

Hunter's Moon: A Sovereign Syndicate Adventure is a deckbuilder that I absolutely loved early on. The presentation is fantastic, and the Slay The Spire-esque gameplay is top-tier. Unfortunately, the more I played, the more I'd encounter substantial performance issues and an overall feeling of imbalance. Give this one some more time to be optimized, and it'll be one of the best titles in the genre. Until then, it's still a good time, but hasn't yet reached its full potential.

Of Ash and Steel is a truly fascinating world and experience that absolutely has merit. The sheer amount of content the game contains (there's even an 'Arena Master' mode outside of the main story that allows you to enjoy more combat challenges) is remarkable for an indie studio that's just now getting its feet wet. It checks a whole lot of boxes for what a love letter to classic 2000s open-world RPGs should contain, and the care and attention to these details is abundantly clear. That said, it does try to differentiate itself in ways that it doesn't need to, such as the lack of navigation UI elements and skill requirements. It also needs a bit more polish on other fronts, such as its dialogue mechanics, and the cutscenes can feel a bit awkward to watch at times. With a bit more time in the "forge" as it were (or just constructive update patches), this game could truly be one to remember.