The Evil Within 2 is a ruthless nightmare that constantly challenges. The unsettling atmosphere contributes to a sense of unpredictability, and the unrelenting combat constantly takes more than it gives. Just when you start to get comfortable, it pushes back harder. Whether it’s a boss fight, a new enemy, or the ever-shifting environment, the circumstances always keep you off balance. The Evil Within 2 encapsulates the best elements of classic survival horror with a modern touch.

While perhaps not reaching the heights of Ninja Gaiden during its prime, it's nonetheless a revitalization. Nioh is much, much more than a summation of its influences. The game's white-knuckle action demands a high degree of determination, but controls so well that any failure can be attributed solely to the player. Although finishing a mission in Nioh is exhausting, especially the times when you walk away with only a sliver of health, it's very much a mountain worth climbing. There are few games currently available that are so utterly rewarding.

Spider-Man 2 is an excellent sequel that smartly builds on the solid foundation set in the previous installments. The web wings are a fun addition to traversal, while combat and stealth have been improved and refined with easier access to gadgets and the new web lines. Swapping between Peter and Miles is not only fun for gameplay variety, but creates a convincing sense of individuality as they go off and do their own things. After a three year wait, Insomniac has delivered a definitive Spider-Man, yet again.

Resident Evil 7 is a glorious return to form for the celebrated franchise. Capcom has gone back to their survival horror roots while also remixing their original formula. PlayStation VR offers a unique way to play and the first-person perspective brings the horror to new heights along with an impactful cast of characters. After the concerning trend of action and explosions, subtle malevolent horror has finally come home.

More than anything, such a strong and clear vision is what makes No More Heroes 3 work as well as it does. It’s beyond clear that Suda cares about this series from the bottom of his heart, and that love is what makes this game special. No More Heroes 3 is not just a good SUDA51 game, it's one of the best games of the year.

Cuphead has had a long journey, and it’s great to see StudioMDHR’s efforts pay off. It does a superb job of capturing the essence of the early days of animation with fantastic art and a jazzy soundtrack. Its challenging difficulty provides some heart-pounding moments and an immense feeling of satisfaction once a boss is defeated. Although it suffers a bit in co-op and platforming levels, Cuphead is more than worthy of your time.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a successful reinvention of the dormant franchise that carves out a marvelous new identity, one that clearly has a bright future. While it doesn’t revolutionize the Metroidvania genre, it certainly elevates it to new heights by refining it and blending in the best aspects of previous Prince of Persia entries. Combined with a terrific soundtrack, a stylish aesthetic, and an intriguing narrative that avoids the pitfall of becoming too overbearing, The Lost Crown marks an excellent start to 2024.

Little Nightmares II once again takes you on a disturbing journey through a vividly realized world, and the sense of danger and desperation you feel is as chilling as ever. Inventive new gameplay elements keep you thinking about how to outsmart your hunters, and your partner brings a strong sense of companionship. Whether you're a fan of the first game or a newcomer, Little Nightmares II is worth taking a journey into the dark.

Rather than trying to latch on to current trends, Borderlands 3 stands confident in the fact that there’s still no other game that does exactly what this series does so well. The sheer creativity and inventiveness presented in its arsenal is hard to match, and while the humor may not be for everyone, it keeps the gameplay in perspective as we’re all just here to have a good time. It isn’t as big of a leap forward as Borderlands 2, but it’s well-refined and there’s a lot to experiment with to keep you coming back for more.

Despite the huge gap in time, NEO: The World Ends with You manages to capture the essence of the original while simultaneously moving the series forward. Although some aspects like combat can feel repetitive at times, it does a great job of translating the frantic nature of the DS original onto modern hardware. Its strong cast of characters are endearing and connect on a satisfying level. And its stylish urban setting is an enthralling backdrop. It may not be as innovative as its predecessor, but it's an excellent return to this distinct world that’s long been overlooked.

If it isn’t obvious at this point, cat parents and cat enthusiasts are going to fall in love with Stray. Yet its appeal scratches deep below the surface by weaving a powerful story about the struggles of humanity, wrapped up in an alluring dystopian world. Stray excels at delivering simple pleasures that all add up to leave you with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment.

Despite the missteps, though, Mega Man 11 is almost exactly what the series needs. It's a vibrant, tightly designed action platformer that honors the history of the iconic character. If Mega Man 11 is trying to argue for why these games matter so much, it wholeheartedly succeeds.

Ghost of Tsushima has a lot going for it. Combat is fast and fluid, and the story is engaging thanks to some great characters. Most disappointing is that taking a stealthy approach can sometimes make victory feel simple and unearned. Despite that, the island itself is the biggest draw, taking you on a captivating adventure through its beautiful world.

Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time lives up to its namesake. It’s been a long wait, but Crash returns to form in this sequel with wonderful new additions. It doesn’t redefine the genre or really strive for innovation, but rather embraces some brilliant ideas first seen in its contemporaries while remaining meticulously true to the classic style of the series. The difficulty can be frustrating, but even if you don’t see and do everything, this is still a highly enjoyable platformer that marks a new high point for the series.

Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled is an impressive remaster from top to bottom. Beenox’s work here is certainly worthy of praise, but some of the credit also goes to Naughty Dog for crafting such an amazing game in the first place. It’s certainly one of the more complex and challenging kart racers, but it ranks right up there alongside the other greats in the genre.

A stronger story may have elevated Viewfinder more, but that does little to detract from the mind-bending mechanics of its puzzles and the smooth construction of its design. Viewfinder strikes an excellent balance between providing puzzles with intentional, satisfying solutions while also giving players freedom to experiment and come up with their own ideas. Plus, once you’ve finished, it’s a joy to then watch someone else discover its wild and inventive mechanics.

Dirt Rally 2.0 is an excellent and demanding driving game that strives for authenticity through abundant detail. A lack of primers may make newcomers hesitant, but it doesn’t take long to get up to speed. At times it can take a lot of patience, with yourself more than anything, but it’s an exhilarating ride through and through.

It’s tempting to make comparisons given the deluge of similar games in recent months, but The Messenger proves its worth through unique merits. The eventual shift from linear to open progression, the swapping back-and-forth between two retro aesthetics, and the evolving mechanics and satisfying platforming make a strong argument for why you should give The Messenger a closer look.

Yakuza 6 is undeniably one of the best entries in the long-running series. Memorable side quests and engaging mini-games offer countless diversions and emotional encounters. The combat becomes routine, but the personal struggle of Kazuma Kiryu brings a satisfying and remarkable conclusion for the legendary Dragon of Dojima.

It's been a long time coming, but The Delicious Last Course is an excellent addition to Cuphead. Its presentation is a rare treasure that’s worth celebrating, showcasing outstanding animation and music alike. The new bosses are glorious spectacles, Ms. Chalice is a great companion to the original team, and The King's Leap challenges you in all new ways. If this is the last we see of our cup-headed buddies, it's a fantastic farewell.

It's been a long time coming for Bayonetta 3, but PlatinumGames has delivered once again. While the technical aspects are disappointing, new additions like taking control of Bayonetta’s giant demons are awesome. As always, the refined combat mechanics are where Bayonetta truly shines, with a diverse and over-the-top arsenal that’s a blast to get your hands on.

While it may not have a ton of new features or a gripping story, Shadow of the Tomb Raider improves upon just about every aspect of the previous titles. Its combat is a bit tighter, characters feel more personal, and the locations you visit are more intriguing than ever. If you’re fan of the previous Tomb Raider entries or looking to jump in for the first time, Shadow of the Tomb Raider is Lara’s finest adventure yet.

The Last of Us Part I is faithful to the original masterpiece, preserving the emotions of Naughty Dog’s groundbreaking tale while removing some limitations of aging technology that held it back. The story is still as powerful now as it ever was, and the stealth action combat remains tense and meaningful. The visuals are undeniably breathtaking, but contribute to a different vibe that isn’t always better. The world will surely debate which version of The Last of Us is superior in the years to come, but really, there’s no right or wrong answer.

Tales of Vesperia: Definitive Edition lives up to its namesake, delivering new content previously exclusive to Japan and updated visuals that enhance an already gorgeous aesthetic. The fantastic cast of characters, breathtaking world, and amazing combat elevate Vesperia to the highest point of the Tales series. This is the perfect opportunity for veterans to rediscover their love of this great RPG, as well as the best way for newcomers to experience an incredible game that still holds its own.

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is an exceptional entry in the storied franchise. It doesn’t reinvent the series, but instead uses Insomniac's decades of experience to create a familiar and refined take on the universe. Newcomer Rivet is immediately relatable and a great addition to the wonderful cast. Modern technology like the PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller and SSD enrich the experience of exploration and combat. Whether you’ve been following the series since 2002, or you’re just hopping in for the first time, Rift Apart is a must-play summer blockbuster.

Death's Door is a solid title that gives a great sense of discovery, while also providing some challenging highlights that never feel unfair. A few more bosses would be appreciated, and some of its characters could use some more love, but the fluid combat and simple but enjoyable puzzles make it a pleasure to play. It's an easy recommendation to anyone looking for a lighthearted, quirky adventure.

After previous attempts only achieved half-measures, Tales of Arise finally takes the series in a new direction. There are sure to be veterans who lament some of the changes in the name of expanding the audience, but the risks taken here pay off nicely. The visuals are a marked improvement from any previous entry, and the combat looks and feels better than ever, even if it comes at the cost of losing some depth. Arise’s narrative admirably tackles some ambitious themes, though not all beats hit their mark. However, despite a few flaws, Tales of Arise is a fantastic RPG that stands as one of the best the series has to offer.

Ghostrunner is a challenging, yet fair adrenaline-fueled escapade of violence and speed. Running through the streets, jumping off walls, and cutting through enemies is a lot of fun, and there’s a rush of satisfaction when you finally overcome a challenge. Some parts like its story could be better, but what it offers in terms of gameplay is nothing short of greatness. It may take a bit to settle in, but when everything clicks, you'll feel like a badass in no time.

Though we’ve seen far more ambitious entries in the genre over the past year or two, Ori elevates itself by doing the basics very well and wrapping them in an emotional experience brought to life by stunning visuals and a wonderful soundtrack. If you missed out the first time around, here’s another chance to dive into the captivating world of Ori and the Blind Forest, and just in time before the sequel arrives early next year.

With that being said, Like a Dragon is easily more than the sum of its parts. Although it can be drawn out, the story has some incredibly emotional moments that really resonate and will likely end up being some of the most memorable of the entire year, and it's propped up by a cast that's equally relatable and charming. Whether you've stormed the streets of Kamurocho before or are completely new to the dealings of the Tojo Clan, there is so much to appreciate in this game if you're willing to be patient.

With complex characters and an impressive branching plot that emphasizes choice and consequence, Detroit: Become Human keeps you invested in your own story and makes you eager to see what other possibilities you might have missed. It’s Quantic Dream’s strongest interactive tale so far.

Amnesia: Rebirth is a triumphant return to form for the franchise. A few puzzles might stump you and the story can be a little hard to follow, but carefully managing resources is a fun balancing act with meaningful stakes for failure, while the environmental variety keeps you feeling vulnerable. Arriving just in time for Halloween, Amnesia: Rebirth is here to remind you of the true meaning of fear.

Streets of Rage 4 masterfully revitalizes the 26-year old series. The nostalgic feeling of bashing thugs into the pavement solo or with friends has been expertly recreated with loving faithfulness. The soundtrack and atmosphere pay tribute to the original trilogy while forging their own identity. The future looks bright, on the Streets of Rage.

Like a Dragon: Ishin is another exceptional entry in the long-running franchise. The change of scenery does a lot for the game. It offers a fresh take on combat, it helps to alleviate the building franchise fatigue for veterans, and it provides a less-intimidating starting point for newcomers. Regardless of the different setting, though, Ishin is one of the best games in the series, with an emotionally engaging story, a memorable cast of characters, and a host of meaningful activities. It took almost a decade to release outside of Japan, but the wait was worth it.

Valkyria Chronicles 4 isn’t a huge evolution of the formula, but right now it doesn’t really need to be. If anything, this is exactly what the series needed -- to go back to what made many of us fall in love with the original and ramp it up to 11.Yes, some of the kinks still aren’t ironed out after all these years, and that’s something that can’t be overlooked. It’s not as groundbreaking as the original, but even after a decade, Valkyria Chronicles shows it still has the magic.

Splatoon 3 continues the winning combo that Nintendo’s landed on with this series and remains as fast-paced and addictive as ever. Aside from some work needed to make Splat Fests less frustrating, the bigger issue is that it follows in its predecessor’s footsteps perhaps a bit too closely. Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer though, Splatoon’s unique gameplay style, strong design, and wide variety of weapons do so much to get you invested and coming back for more.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land is an adorable game with creative levels that make the most of the excellent power ups like mouthful mode, and it’s all set to a remarkable soundtrack. There’s a surprising amount of extra activities, and levels do a superb job of incentivizing you to seek out hidden objectives in order to expand the charming hub town and power up your arsenal. The technical shortcomings and some minor platforming woes at the hands of the camera work are the only blemishes on an otherwise marvelous game.

Gran Turismo 7 certainly has its share of detriments and eccentricities, some of which are bound to bother some players much more than others. Yet, the parts that matter most are at the top of their class. The café guides players through the campaign in a way that feels fresh and fits the GT culture, the visuals can have you doing a double take, and all of it is in support of phenomenal next-level driving. Gran Turismo feels more welcoming and approachable than ever, without sacrificing its identity.

Metro Exodus falls easily into the "rough around the edges" category. Yet all of its issues are worth dealing with to experience the incredible amount of effort that goes into its world building. It does such an effective job of evoking fear and anxiety just while walking around. The shortcomings sometimes feel as though Metro Exodus is reaching beyond its own capabilities, but that same ambition is also what ultimately makes it such a powerful journey.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is a love letter to classic beat ‘em ups. The simple mechanics ensure everyone can hop in and have a good time, while each stage is a joy to kick shell in. The bosses are a blast from the past, while modern control ensures pummeling the Foot Clan has never felt so excellent. Whether you’re a lifelong fan, or the new kid on the block, the Turtles are here to start your summer off right. COWABUNGA!

Mortal Kombat 1 is another strong entry in the franchise, with a polished presentation, high production values, and good core mechanics. The Kameo system, enhance meter, and air combat add tons of creative possibilities to combat. The story has an incredible presentation, but loses steam when the scope gets too big and messy. Meanwhile, Invasions are a promising new addition that will hopefully get meaningful support in future seasons, but the full package feels like it’s missing just another piece of the puzzle. Time will tell how it will evolve with future additions and balance tweaks, but for now Mortal Kombat 1 has everything you need for a skull-cracking good time.

Mario + Rabbids: Sparks of Hope is a splendid sequel with a terrific new take on exploration while simultaneously revamping the combat for the better with the clever addition of Sparks and marvelous new characters. It definitely could use a bit more polish, but it’s still a gorgeous looking game in spite of some technical shortcomings. Clocking in at roughly 20 hours to complete, plus several more for extras, it feels like the perfect length and never overstays its welcome. It’s definitely worth the wait, but here’s hoping it’s not another five years before we see a follow-up to this magnificent series.

In a lot of ways, Fire Emblem: Three Houses is exactly what you would want a well-respected series to do when transitioning to a new console. It pushes the series in a discernible new direction with purpose. The game's problems are relatively minor and Three Houses largely nails the most important aspects, namely having excellent characters and tactical combat that contains depth without being overwhelming, leading to a strategy game that's very easy to feel connected to.

Emotional side quests, engaging combat, and a dramatic plot combine to make Yakuza Kiwami 2 another solid addition to the franchise.

Assassin’s Creed Valhalla further refines the RPG style of Origins and Odyssey and their enormous worlds. Addictive progression and an engaging story tie everything together in meaningful ways, but the bloated length almost ruins the impact of the story, while lackluster AI causes combat to wear thin. Still, England and Norway are breathtakingly beautiful with an outrageous amount of things to discover and unique tales to tell.

Resident Evil 3 is a superb reimagining that complements last year’s Resident Evil 2 by prioritizing frantic action without compromising its horror roots. Jill and Carlos’s emotional journey is bolstered by threats that build their bond in convincing ways, while Nemesis remains one of the series’ most memorable creations. More than a few surprises await veteran residents of Raccoon City.

If you’re fine with never completing the Impossible Lair, you’re still left with a great game. It’s a massive improvement over the original and a much better direction for the series. The way in which it handles its overworld is masterful, as is the way it interconnects with each level. Not to mention Grant Kirkhope and David Wise’s amazing talent is once again on display with another stellar soundtrack. Yooka-Laylee and the Impossible Lair is a wonderful platformer that could have been even greater if only it stuck the landing.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare successfully reimagines the iconic series. A few key mechanical additions refine combat in important ways while the campaign returns with some of the series’ best missions. With cross-play and free updates planned for the next year, Modern Warfare is just getting started.

Black Ops 4 is by no means a perfectly consistent game, with the limp storytelling being a considerable low point, but it is the most exciting and ambitious the series has felt in quite some time. It's easy to focus on one particular mode, but the game becomes most impressive when taken as a whole. All three branches feel equally valuable, and jumping between them offers something different without sacrificing quality. Call of Duty has been going every year for what feels like forever, but Treyarch clearly shows that there's still plenty that can be done.

Returnal is a great debut for Housmarque on the PS5. The $70 price tag may be off-putting for some, but it makes a great case for itself thanks to excellent gameplay, an intriguing narrative, and replayability. It would be nice if some of the areas felt more distinct from one another and there are a few tech issues left to iron out. Regardless, Returnal is a blast to play and worth going down the rabbit hole in search of its secrets.

Unpacking is disarmingly deep and surprisingly emotional. The journey opens by asking you to line up action figures and stuffed animals, and by the time it's over, you’re marking major milestones and surviving life’s most difficult decisions. The fact that it accomplishes this without a line of text or speech is really impressive. Just when you think you can predict which item’s next, you’re hit in the gut with a relic of unexpected meaning and charm. With a wonderfully consistent pixel aesthetic and a soundtrack that breezes by in the background, this is a gem that anyone with an affinity for interior design or inventive storytelling shouldn’t miss.

Though it’s a little shorter compared to its predecessors, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue is a collection worthy of your time. The HD treatment on Dream Drop Distance is excellent. Birth by Sleep 0.2 - A Fragmentary Passage is a gorgeous prologue to Kingdom Hearts III, and while Kingdom Hearts X (key) Back Cover is the weakest link in the collection, it lets fans efficiently catch up on that chapter of the story. While it may just be an appetizer, Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue is a fine example of why we’re still excited for the future of the franchise.

Battlefield V is another solid entry for the long-running series. War Stories and fortifications miss the mark, but the risky changes to spotting, squad synergy, and limited resources have added depth and shaken up the flow of matches for the better. The limited number of maps is unfortunate, but free content updates provide some hope for the future. Battlefield V deftly delivers on its promise of large-scale team-focused warfare, and we’re only just getting started.

In multiple ways, Dawntrail is all about setting up events that will play out across future chapters. The narrative is certainly the most divisive element at the moment, so there’s a lot riding on where the writers go after the revelations and developments in the final act. The battle content is certainly heading in the right direction, but there’s still a question of whether or not the devs can sustain this momentum. There’s reason to be hopeful with what’s been established in Dawntrail, but what comes next will be crucial to Final Fantasy XIV’s outlook for the future.

While players looking to check off all the boxes have their work cut out for them, a more casual approach to New Pokémon Snap really allows you to take things at your own pace, going down the rabbit holes you enjoy and ignoring the ones you don’t. Vague direction and limits on how many photos you can turn in at a time can get in the way, but overall, it’s a warm, peaceful trip as you discover these creatures in the wild and search out all the different ways they interact.

Live A Live is a delightful little RPG that’s thankfully gotten the second chance it deserves. Its new visuals look great and the rearranged soundtrack brings each time frame to life. However, its multi-scenario story is what makes it truly stand out. Though the quality varies between chapters, they're all interesting in their own ways and it’s worth seeing through to the very end.

SteamWorld Dig 2 doesn’t quite break new ground, but the process of digging your way through its spaces square by square as you gather resources and upgrade your character distinguishes itself from other Metroid-style games. Tight controls, pleasant backdrops, and a stronger sense of space make it worth unearthing this gem however you can.

Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony isn’t easy to summarize, at least not in a way that manages to capture its full scope. It's outlandish, and an example of how deeply engaging such outlandishness can be when wielded effectively. So much of what we consume is content to play into what the audience wants, but V3 takes a different path. It often challenges instead of appeals, and though not all of its points are equally strong, the constant push against player expectations makes it a far more intriguing journey.

Overall though, Omega Force has really outdone themselves with Three Hopes in terms of capturing the essence of Fire Emblem: Three Houses. It nails so much of what makes Three Houses one of the best entries in the series, while simultaneously introducing improvements to go beyond the original’s scope. It would almost be the perfect follow-up if not for the limitations of combat, which falls a bit short of the mark, despite a sincere endeavor to capture a sense of those grand turn-based battles. In spite of these drawbacks, Three Hopes marks another high point for the musou genre, and stands as one of the team’s better collaborative projects in recent memory.

Tokyo RPG Factory has done a fine job of capturing the spirit of classic JRPGs with I am Setsuna. It feels like returning home after a long journey. Its superb soundtrack and solid gameplay bring nostalgic feelings of joy and comfort. Even though a lack of balance holds back the creativity of its combat, it never extinguishes the emotional tone and engaging story of the game. It may not be the next classic, but it does an excellent job of honoring its heritage.

A wonderful trip beneath the waves, abounding in small surprises and impressing with the sheer density of life in certain scenes. Whether you’re riding a manta ray or zipping along a speedy current like a highway, it makes the natural world fun while adding its own intriguing mysteries to uncover.

Katana Zero is a great action platformer with tight and precise combat that makes you think through every move you make. The way it frames its gameplay is interesting with an engaging story and flashy visuals. Though it could use some more variety, Katana Zero is an enjoyable venture into this dark world.

Death Stranding is an easy, easy game to complain about or even be angry at, but it's also a lot more fascinating than many other, more conservative works.

Rough edges be damned, however. Such flaws don't prevent Zero Time Dilemma from being utterly enthralling. It's rare that a game's story captivates us so thoroughly that we lose sleep just to see what will happen next. Few other works have subverted expectations, toyed with our emotions, or simply shocked us the way the Zero Escape Series has. Zero Time Dilemma is a fitting end to a story we won't soon forget.

There’s still a lot of good found in Berseria, specifically with the emotional story and unique cast of characters. The extra effort put into revamping exploration and traversing zones to make them more interesting shows promise too. There’s a solid foundation here for Bandai Namco to build upon, and for the first time in years, the Tales series shows flashes of a brighter future given the right ingredients.

The Banner Saga 2 fuels momentum towards the next chapter with rich new territories and captivating mysteries. Gameplay is less frustrating without losing its sense of challenge, pushing you and your people on through tough scenarios at the height of desperation.

The Awesome Adventures of Captain Spirit tells an intimate familial story about coping with loss. It speaks to the power of a child’s imagination and resilience in the face of a hopeless situation. The episode may be short, but it leaves us wanting to spend more time with Chris and the world of Life is Strange.

Doom honors its legacy while setting the stage for a new era for the long dormant franchise. Intimately gory encounters and a surprising emphasis on story more than make up for the bland multiplayer.

Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon captures the essence of the NES Castlevania titles wonderfully. It has great levels, tight gameplay, and extra modes that make it more than worthy of its $10 price tag. It may stick to familiar territory, but it’s a great start for a new legacy.

Star Fox Zero is a wonderful re-imagining of one of the most beloved games in the series, blending elements from its early history in a tasteful manner. The meatier story mode leaves you with a better sense of fulfillment over its predecessors, and while there isn’t an online leaderboard to compare best times or scores, there are other extras to keep you playing. Adapting to the new controls might take more patience than some players are willing to give, but those who stick it out are rewarded with a higher-degree of precision than previously possible. It’s by no means perfect, but it’s safe to say Miyamoto’s latest experiment is a success.

With so many great games available right now, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle but Lies of P is worth making time for. Although it doesn't do anything revolutionary, it's an all-around great game with satisfying and engaging combat, entertaining and challenging bosses, and strong atmosphere. On paper, it may seem like a bizarre concept, but once you hop in, Lies of P makes a strong case for itself with no strings attached.

Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a strong return to the original identity of the series. The increased emphasis on stealth encourages you to get more invested in your surroundings, while the streamlined equipment options and shortened length ensure Basim doesn’t wear out his welcome. Open combat and the story aren’t anything particularly special, but learning about Baghdad continues the series tradition of celebrating different time periods. With multiple Assassin’s Creed projects in the works, hopefully Ubisoft embraces the intimate focus of Mirage.

Hyper Light Drifter places high value on your efforts and sense of discovery. The impressionistic storytelling, inexplicit clues, and tough challenges, place the emphasis on your journey as a player. Things are never clearly laid out for you, but in the end, it’s both beautiful and satisfying.

At times, it feels like the game isn't able to properly justify its own meandering tendencies. Yet Torna also proves that Xenoblade can often feel like it's pushing ahead, restlessly trying out new mechanics that can be intriguing and fun. While far from flawless, the standalone chapter is one that is worth paying attention to.

Tchia is a strong example of how such personal love and care can shine through every part of a game’s craftsmanship. Its environments, animals, clothing, dances, music, food, and folklore all convey a sense of deep cultural heritage as much as just being a fun video game to explore. Despite having a few rough edges to iron out, Tchia keeps you looking around every corner for the next thing to jump into, whether it’s a dolphin or a skateboard.

Hitman 2 adds enough minor improvements to set it apart from its predecessor. Complex, intricate locations are rewarding to explore, while pulling off the perfect assassination remains one of the highlights of the stealth genre. In the coming weeks, Sean Bean will play the role of an elusive target, and hopefully, Ghost Mode will expand on its promising premise. A few uninspired locations and cliché targets hold back the proceedings, but Hitman 2 hits the mark.

Super Mario 3D World holds up well after all these years with solid platforming, dazzling power-ups, and a fantastic soundtrack, but the camera work holds the experience back. The various quality of life improvements are a nice touch, as is the ability to play with friends, even if the online functionality doesn’t rise above the low expectations typical of Nintendo’s offerings. The addition of Bowser’s Fury is a wonderful treat that teases a potential new direction for 3D Mario with a truly open-world platformer that allows a degree of exploration that surpasses even the impressive worlds of Super Mario Odyssey. By pairing these two very different, yet captivating styles of platformers in one package, Nintendo delivers the best of both worlds.

Gears has had its ups and its downs, and thankfully, Gears 5 does a good job of lifting the series back up. Its improved focus on characters and more open areas really helps to strengthen the campaign, and the multiplayer offers the same over-the-top action you've come to expect. It won’t likely bring in many new converts, but if you’re a fan who’s felt alienated by more recent entries, Gears 5 is a great place to jump back in.

If you're looking for a quick and bloody challenge, Bloodroots is a great pick. Running through levels and cutting down foes always feels satisfying, and its wide array of weapons is a pleasure to use. Bloodroots is a fast and frantic rush of violence.

While Squadrons may not be the most ambitious in scope, it does a great job of making you feel like a pilot in the Star Wars universe. Soaring through space and blasting ships is a lot of fun, and its implementation of VR is so good it feels mandatory now for future Star Wars flight games. More variety would go a long way, but at least it comes in a little cheaper at $40. Squadrons is easily one of the best Star Wars games to support VR, and it’s a solid choice all around.

Even with a few technical hiccups, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night delivers on its promise, and it’s a great successor to past Castlevania games. Its sense of exploration, flexible shard system, and wonderful atmosphere far outweigh the negatives. Whether you’re a fan who’s been waiting for this day to arrive or you’ve taken more of a wait-and-see approach, having this worthwhile new adventure from Koji Igarashi is like reuniting with an old friend.

The Division 2 improves upon the original in nearly every way, offering a staggering amount of content to engage with. The Dark Zone still stands apart, delivering tense multiplayer scenarios, and the ability to play either solo or co-op is something we don’t take for granted as it’s not always easy to coordinate game time with friends or family. While we’ve grown accustomed to rocky launches from similar games, it’s easy to recommend The Division 2 as it is today, and the year one road map makes us incredibly excited for where the game is heading.

Gris takes you on a relaxing yet emotional adventure, encouraging you to take your time and soak up its world along the way. The gameplay may be simple, but it provides a strong enough bridge to engage with this enchanting world. It’s an inspiring work of beauty that’s well worth the journey.

Despite the wireless issues, weird schedules, and a bit of familiarity, Splatoon 2 comes out on top overall. The various modes, weapons, and gear offer a lot of strategic options to experiment with, but anyone can jump in, have fun, and feel like they’re contributing. It’s easy to get carried away for hours, splattering the world with ink, and we look forward to seeing how Splatoon 2 expands as Nintendo adds new elements over the coming months.

Horizon Zero Dawn feels like a franchise in the making. While not packed with narrative high points, it’s still a compelling introduction to a world in turmoil that answers a lot of questions, but still gestures toward a more climactic future. Its primary element, squaring off against mechanized animals, is such a success, it makes up for the ongoing repetition of the game’s activities. When we look into Horizon’s future, we see a sequel that can take this world and make it into something remarkable.

Dead Cell’s challenging encounters, rewarding exploration and meaningful upgrades mash together in a slick and successful way. While some moments can be frustrating and feel like a bit of a grind, conquering the island and unraveling its many mysteries is a gratifying journey.

With a first run taking 10 hours or less, Solar Ash is a focused affair that delivers on its vision without getting distracted by extraneous missions or checklists. The scale of its massive creatures pairs well with strong level design and interesting characters. It’s hard to avoid comparisons, but bold visuals and a sense of agility help separate Solar Ash from its inspirations and provide a surreal journey that’s all its own.

With a plethora of retro-inspired games available, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle. However, Tunic makes a good case for itself. Along with its vibrant visuals and soothing music, Tunic provides a strong sense of discovery and adventure thanks to solid world design and its excellent in-game manual. Tunic doesn’t reach the heights of the games that inspired it, but it's a great time and worth your attention.

After the explosively popular Fire Emblem Awakening, the expansive Fire Emblem Fates, and the mobile Fire Emblem Heroes, Fire Emblem Echoes is a welcome deviation. By stripping away some of the most familiar combat mechanics and digging into exploration and world building, Echoes satisfies in different ways than its immediate predecessors, and that satisfaction is more appreciated than expected. We’ve grown to deeply care about what we’re fighting for and relish the ways the game challenges our own Fire Emblem knowledge.

On the surface, Dead Island 2 is certainly all about slicing up zombies without a lot of emotional stakes, but there’s a notable attention to depth and detail that’s evident throughout. The sense of impact as weapons crack bone and send bodies flying entices you to keep tinkering with abilities, to go back for side quests after the story’s done, and to consider giving it another run with friends. Zombies have splashed down in LA: grab a hammer and get to work.

Beyond its charming artstyle, Ghost Giant is a surprisingly emotional game with an intriguing story, filled with likeable characters and some enjoyable puzzles. Though it does have a few technical issues, it’s well worth the time.

Judgment manages to be great regardless of where you're coming from thanks to the direction the game takes and how well it tackles that direction. If you're a longtime Yakuza fan already endeared to the series, there are enough tweaks and ideas to make the familiar enticing again. If you're brand new to the Yakuza style, no knowledge whatsoever of the past games is required, serving as a perfect starting point. No matter what your experience, know that Judgment is very much worth carving out time for.

It may not push its combat as hard as the original, but Axiom Verge 2 isn’t afraid of letting you forge your own path. Power-ups are spread out in a way that prevents them from simply feeling like keys needed to unlock the next area, and there are lots of extra goodies and fun secrets along the way. Axiom Verge 2 has a way of getting into your system and enticing you to uncover absolutely every last inch of its world.

Despite the cumbersome online and overly long story mode, Dragon Ball FighterZ is without question the best time we've had in a Dragon Ball game to date. It's such a delight to be able to play as characters who look and feel as powerful as they do in the source material. Yet even if you strip away the outer wrapping, there’s a completely solid and frantic fighting game underneath.

Ultimately, this is an audacious experience, one that feels unique despite its age, and it deserves to be tried by anyone that seriously enjoys RPGs.

Even when considering its shortcomings, it's hard to deny the quality of Nioh 2 overall. There’s a lot here, and considering how heavily the game leans on combat, it's very smart to offer the player so much freedom to find their own way forward. All of the weapons feel viable, and not only are there so many to choose from, but how you specifically wield each one and what you support those weapons with can vary significantly. While Nioh 2 doesn't have the same sort of spark that accompanied the original game, in many ways, it highlights why the series is special and refines the groundwork of what came before.

Mafia Definitive Edition is a loving and faithful remake of an underappreciated gem. The story, atmosphere, and sense of place have aged particularly well. The cover-based shootouts feature memorable scenarios, but the controls and Free Ride mode have room for improvement. After 18 years, Tommy Angelo’s violent tale of organized crime is still as memorable as ever.

There’s a lot to rightfully criticize, but this is also the most vibrant and exciting Halo has felt in what feels like an eternity. Regardless of the rewards, it’s hard to put the multiplayer down. Infinite needs to absolutely be called out for its glaring shortcomings, but it's also important to recognize that at its heart, there is something undeniably special here.