Mario Golf: Super Rush makes a desperate shot to score a newer, bigger audience by making the fundamentals easier, and the competition faster than ever. The adventure mode has its own unpredictable story, there’s a zany charm to becoming your own cart in Speed Golf, and Battle Golf adds a level of tactics previously unseen in the typically quiet sport. There just aren’t many ways to show these modes off, making it a tricky investment unless you’re a dedicated pro or always ready to hit the links with friends and family.

Legend of Mana never reaches any grand heights with its gameplay or storytelling, but there’s enough going for it to keep you invested. It has an undeniable charm thanks to its gorgeous visuals and great soundtrack. It's a solid adventure that's been wonderfully updated to please new and old fans alike.

While Guilty Gear Strive definitely has shortcomings to consider, they feel almost insignificant when tallying up everything the game does so well. It’s not just another Guilty Gear, but instead a defining moment for the series. In a lot of ways, it's so far ahead of its peers in terms of online functionality and accessibility, two areas the genre fails in time and again. If you've been too intimidated to seriously get into fighting games, it's hard to think of a better game than Strive. If you're a battle hardened veteran, there's no reason to wait. Jump in and start shredding. You'll lose countless hours in the blink of an eye.

Biomutant’s faults are especially frustrating because it's so wonderfully weird. The stronger and faster you get, the more you want to explore and conquer. Each new gizmo you discover presents an opportunity to change up your playstyle, and its map holds some genuinely startling surprises. But despite a rich customization system, it’s hard to connect to everything the way it's presented. It’s a clever and colorful world, it’s just not very cohesive.

Scarlet Nexus more than delivers on the action with its impressive combat system, which alone almost makes it worth the price of admission. Surrounded by an intriguing world and strong cast of characters, it has the makings of a solid new series for Bandai Namco, though exploration leaves something to be desired. Offering up two similar campaigns might seem like a huge misstep, but completing either protagonist’s story provides a satisfying narrative and conclusion on its own, and the intimidating task of a second playthrough is tempered by the inclusion of new game plus. At the end of this journey, we’re left fulfilled, but strangely still yearning for more, wondering at the possibilities the future might hold for this striking new endeavor.

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.

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.

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.

On PlayStation 5, Village looks and sounds exceptional. Locations are intricately crafted, as each new room you step into is packed with eye catching details to investigate. Paranoia easily sets in as you hear enemies lurking in dense foliage and adjacent rooms. With ray tracing on, the visuals look marginally better, but the performance takes frequent, noticeable dips. Turning it off yields a steady 60 frames-per-second. Resident Evil Village’s imposing environments lay the groundwork for exhilarating action and slow, creeping fear. Exploration and resource management are among the best of the series. A few story elements miss the mark, and Mercenaries is over too quickly, but Village is another remarkable entry in the long-running survival horror series.

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.

An abundance of patience is required for Nier, and many will understandably be uninterested in making that commitment. But if you do, know that you are in for a genuine classic. It is a wild game that seems thrilled at the very notion of being provocative. It isn't shallow shock value, but rather something that tries to reach out, grab you, and give you an experience you can't easily get in many other places. Replicant is a second chance for the original Nier, and one it unquestionably deserves.

Outriders blends frenetic combat and hard hitting class skills to make each encounter feel tense and rewarding. Chasing loot drops and collecting mods to bolster your collection is as addictive as using storm whip on vulnerable foes. The presentation makes it hard to connect with the characters, but players willing to read a lot may be surprised by how much thought has been put into things behind the scenes. With the current state of problems however, waiting a bit longer for things to get sorted out is recommended.

Ys IX: Monstrum Nox doesn’t amaze with branching storylines or groundbreaking visuals, but so much of its design, from smart shortcuts to platforming-based exploration, helps it to feel fast and light on its feet. Getting to know this world serves as a strong invitation to go back to past games, yet it doesn’t make you feel like a loser if you don’t. It’s RPG comfort food that lets you relax and have fun, without getting in its own way.

Balan Wonderworld is a disappointing platformer that feels like a wasted opportunity. There are some bright spots in its visuals, music, and boss fights, but the bulk of the game is characterized by stale level design, overly simplistic gameplay, useless power-ups, and annoying mini-games. It throws a lot of ideas at the wall, but lacks the polish to do any of it well. And with a price tag of $60, it's a hard sell.

Even with a few complaints, Monster Hunter Rise is an excellent addition to a series that carries high expectations. Rather than just follow what’s been successful in the past, Rise goes out of its way to experiment with bold new ideas that make it a more captivating game, whether it's your first Monster Hunter or you've cooked thousands of well-done steaks before. The modest power of the Switch does little to diminish the thrill of the hunt, considering how great the game looks and runs. Without a doubt, Rise isn't just a worthwhile Monster Hunter entry, but an essential game for anyone who owns Nintendo's hybrid console.

Bravely Default II is a familiar yet enjoyable JRPG. Though some aspects like its visuals may not hit the mark, the job and combat system are excellent and give you freedom with your party. It can feel a little safe at times, but Bravely Default II is still a solid choice worth seeing through to the end.

Maquette never quite delivers that sense of mind-boggling euphoria you might expect. Finicky mechanics sometimes get in the way, and it would help if there were more rewards for experimentation. That said, it’s still a fascinating premise that’s fleshed out in ways that keep pushing you to think outside the box. Paired with a love story that feels personal and authentic, it’s both intellectually and emotionally worth exploring.

If you have an attachment to the world and characters of Persona 5, you owe it to yourself to play Strikers. The shift in genre makes combat exciting, and the story manages to capture so much of what made Persona 5 such an outstanding game. The Phantom Thieves are back, not in some watered down spin off, but in a way that will very likely steal your heart all over again.

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.

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.

The Medium has grand ambitions, but stumbles under the weight of them all. The story is emotionally engaging, but the environments fail to leave a memorable impact. Puzzles are repetitive and typically solve themselves, while slowly moving through the hotel loses its threatening aura. The Medium is a great story to watch and listen to, just not to play.

Cyber Shadow is a great modern take on the retro games that inspired it. Jumping and slashing your way through each of its areas is a lot of fun, and its checkpoint system smartly eliminates potential frustration and repetition. Even though some aspects could be better, Cyber Shadow is still a very enjoyable adventure and a strong debut for Mechanical Head Games.

Hitman 3 is an excellent end to the World of Assassination trilogy. Each mission feels dramatically different with exceptional level design that provides countless mysteries to uncover and options to play with. The story comes to a gratifying conclusion, but even if you’re new to 47’s world of slick kills and dark comedy, there has never been a more appropriate time to take aim.

The impulse to fall into one extreme opinion of Cyberpunk or the other is strong. There are moments when you can get so swept up with the world and characters that the very valid complaints seem small. Yet there are also moments when something will break yet again, and you'd give anything for the man behind the curtain to just hide himself better. The game's ambition is standing on very wobbly legs that feel like they could suddenly collapse at any time. There is greatness, but you really have to fight to see all of it, more than anyone should have to.

Finishing Twin Mirror takes about 6 to 8 hours. With a completed save, you can go back to specific chapters to try new choices, but there are only a few moments that feel worth such experimentation. Even though cracking the case is pretty straightforward, the more traditional aspects of investigating Basswood and talking to the people that live there end up being more interesting than traits like Sam’s mind palace and alter-ego. There’s still enough to appreciate here, but it feels underdeveloped. Like two voices in one head, Twin Mirror has a tendency to get in its own way.

Koei Tecmo and Nintendo have laid the groundwork for something really special in Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. Whether intentional or not, their ambition crafts a new subgenre of Musou that’s mostly held back by the limitations of the Switch hardware. The post-game and extra modes fall short of what the original Hyrule Warriors offers, yet its solid storytelling and diverse set of characters are captivating until the journey's end. With a bit more refinement and polish, Hyrule Warriors could become something truly legendary.

This is an incredibly ambitious game that really feels like it is trying to push things forward in a meaningful way, and when it all is clicking, it is truly magical. But, it is on shaky legs. You definitely get the sense that the tech quite can't handle everything it is trying to do. You start to see the seams in a disappointing way. [30 Hour Impressions]

Despite its technical hangups, Haven has passion and charisma to spare thanks to some clever writing and an honest portrayal of a devoted relationship. There are rough patches when you get stuck on confusing terrain or come up against a temperamental adversary, but the journey is mostly as difficult as you want to make it. Keeping these wanderers together is a pleasant challenge, and re-assembling the puzzle pieces of their past has a satisfying payoff.

Call of Duty has been an annual franchise for 15 years, but this year feels particularly unnecessary because Warzone and Modern Warfare continue to thrive. It’s a solid game, but with limited maps and a campaign that fizzles out, it’s a hard sell for players already committed to where they are. As the seasons continue, Cold War could certainly improve, but for now, it isn’t an essential purchase.

Immortals Fenyx Rising lays a solid foundation for a new open world game by drawing inspiration from other successful contemporaries. It boasts an impressive combat system, but the limited enemy roster fails to showcase its true potential. Yet there’s so much to do and see, with numerous opportunities that highlight the amazing puzzle designs and the enormous scale of the world to explore, all set to a wonderful soundtrack composed by Gareth Coker. For those looking for a more stylized open world experience that doesn’t strive for realism, but rather revels in its mythology, Immortals is your type of odyssey.

Although its lack of online multiplayer at launch is disappointing, Sackboy: A Big Adventure is still a charming platformer. Going through each of its stages is a pleasure. Collecting things and dressing up is delightful, and multiplayer is a lot of fun if you have friends around. It may not be the most ambitious title to feature Sackboy, but what's here is nothing short of jolly.

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.

The Pathless is beautiful but repetitive. There is a somber emptiness to its world that tries to convey a sense of loss and impending doom, but it can also make the proceedings tiring if you don’t regularly redirect yourself toward the things you need to find and fix. It makes bold strides in exploration and world-building, but movement can feel awkward or overly simplistic, and the ruins you seek out house little more than a puzzle and some foggy memories. On a positive note, load times are wonderfully brief on PlayStation 5, and the controller pulses differently for each type of target you fire at. Navigating this world can be both a calming and thrilling experience, there’s just not enough to find to make the journey more than a pleasant trip through the trees.

The name "Demon's Souls” comes with a lot of expectations, and Bluepoint has proven once again that they’re more than capable of carefully modernizing these beloved games without losing what made them special in the process. Demon's Souls on the PS5 is one of the finest examples of a remake out there thanks to its stunning visuals, great music, and numerous quality of life improvements. Most importantly, all the aspects that made the original such a classic like it's mysterious world, tight combat, and vicious bosses are painstakingly preserved. Whether you're a newcomer or a veteran, Demon's Souls is a journey worth taking and it’s an outstanding title to have out alongside the PlayStation 5’s launch.

If you want to catch them all and check off the full list of side quests, Bugsnax takes about 10 hours or so to complete. The gameplay can feel a little clumsy here and there, but it makes up for it with the silliness and creativity of it all. There’s a lot of joy to be had with these bizarre critters, and there’s more to the story than you might guess. So if you’re curious about where this adventure ends up, pack your bags for Snaktooth Island, and be sure to bring a healthy appetite.

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.

Whether you’re taking in the details up close, or soaring over the freezing skyline, Spider-Man: Miles Morales looks and performs better than the first game in every way. It’s clearly setting the stage for a massive sequel, but this is more than just a stop-gap between generations. The struggles that Miles faces and the fears that he conquers to become a hero on his own terms make this short but sweet side-story memorable and meaningful. It’s an unmissable adventure for any Spider-fan that can’t wait for a second chance to suit up.

The tools Watch Dogs provides give you power over your environment, and now you have dominion over who fights and who dies in a desperate and sometimes uncomfortably relevant struggle to save a troubled London. This freedom may make you feel more attached to your crew than the drama unfolding in the main story, but any investment you make to grow Dedsec is justly rewarded. There aren’t enough mission types and voice actors involved to make the whole thing as impactful and realistic as intended, but you can easily find a few recruits, or a few dozen, that are worth putting on the front lines of this bloody cyber war.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Hades is one of the best roguelikes you can play. An interesting cast of characters, anchored by the lovable Zagreus, is worth learning about, while the seemingly never-ending upgrades always provide something to work towards. A few more bosses and environments would have helped the long road towards the true ending, but with so much weapon and build variety, each run offers a unique and rewarding trip through the Underworld.

13 Sentinels is not the first gorgeous game Vanillaware has made. The reason it’s exceptional is because of how exciting the journey is. Sure, there’s the mystery box pull as you peel away layer after layer, but a giant reason you’ll want to hungrily jump to the next chapter is because the characters are just so charming. It is relatively rare that a video game story is this captivating and it’s absolutely worth making time for.

Marvel’s Avengers is launching with a few cuts and bruises. It has a charming story and a surprising amount of depth and detail in the massive Initiative missions, but trying to experience it all inevitably leads to running through the same types of areas over and over, multiplied by however many Avengers you choose to make time to level up. It might not be as easy to love this crew compared to the cast we’ve been laughing and crying with for the last 10 years, but the groundwork is here to create a potentially epic-sized superhero fantasy. It just has more work to do to get there.

The biggest point of praise for Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1 and 2 is that you just end up wanting more of it. For the first time in forever, the series not only feels back on track, but is being executed with the proficiency that it absolutely deserves. There are things to quibble about, but these are small when placed next to the overwhelming amount that soars like Superman. Vicarious Visions is no pretender. They have raised the dead.

Peril on Gorgon lasts around 12 to 15 hours, depending on how much you want to read and scavenge, and there’s more than enough here to warrant the $15 price tag. It’s a solid journey, particularly if you want to reconnect to your crew and learn more about Halcyon. Digging through the ruins can get a bit lonesome after a while, but once you start meeting new characters and picking up the scent of where all this is going, it can hook you in through to the end.

Ary and the Secret of Seasons feel like it's not ready for release yet. It's frustrating because there are occasional moments of promise in areas like its temples and puzzles, but the overall experience is brought down by sloppy combat, a stale world, and numerous technical issues. If the developers take some more time to polish things up Ary could be a decent adventure, but in its current state, you're better off waiting.

Battletoads tries to do a lot in a short amount of time, and mostly succeeds. The core beat ‘em up stages drag on a little too long and the comedy is hit or miss, but there are enough other ideas mixed in to break up the pace and keep things interesting. It may not be the most triumphant comeback, but it’s a decent homecoming for Rare’s irreverent heroes.

While Mortal Shell may not stand at the upper echelon of the genre, there's still plenty to enjoy. The combat and world are engaging, and its swappable body system feels unique and fresh. Despite its shortcomings, Mortal Shell brings enough new ideas to the table, and with less pressure and investment required, there’s plenty of freedom to experiment with them.

At 10 to 12 hours, Röki is a substantial adventure that avoids some of the typical pitfalls of the genre. While there is a fair bit of backtracking, puzzles feel naturally entwined with the story as it unfolds, with significant new elements that change things up just when it’s needed. Meanwhile, the nature of where this story goes effectively draws you closer to this family’s struggles, taking it beyond a simple fable. It’s a small game with a lot of heart.

Fast & Furious Crossroads brings nothing meaningful to the franchise or racing games in general. At full price, you should absolutely stay away even if you are a diehard veteran of the series. Horrible voice acting, dated visuals, weak sound effects, no customization, and cumbersome controls all contribute to a lifeless slog. There are a few short-lived moments of success, but they aren’t worth putting up with a game where you never feel like more than a co-pilot. Hopefully in the future, Fast & Furious will know when to stay in its lane.

Paper Mario: The Origami King is a delightful game that sometimes jumps forward into greatness but never fully stays there. For as charming as so much of it can be and for how admirable its commitment to variety is, it's too bad that by far the best story moment happens fairly early on and the battle system too often feels like it lacks any real teeth. There's more than enough right to make it easy to recommend, but also just enough wrong to leave you wondering what could have been.

The joyous carnage of Superhot remains solid throughout Mind Control Delete, despite the fact that the road you take intentionally tries to delay and derail you. If you’ve been waiting for more of this distinct gunplay, there are at least eight hours of it here, including infinite and endless modes. VR felt like the perfect evolution of the series when it launched, but this new entry lacks an identity beyond just bringing more Superhot to the fans that crave it.

Even with a few frustrating aspects, Panzer Paladin is still a solid choice. Going through each of its stages and ripping enemies apart is a good time overall. The additional modes add some nice longevity, and its anime-inspired presentation is wonderful. It's time to suit up and save the world.

It's possible, and even likely, to walk away from Deadly Premonition 2 absolutely loving it. Few directors can construct a world or a cast as curiously compelling as Swery does. Yet it's hard not to desperately wish that these charms were presented with more capable craftsmanship. There is a special flavor that Swery games have, and that sometimes comes across in spite of the jank, but there has to be a better way of preserving that flavor while also making a stronger game overall.

Carrion starts strong with a solid premise but fails to fully capitalize on its ideas. The novelty of eating faceless humans wears thin as the sole motivation to escape isn’t expanded upon in any meaningful way. The environments fail to encourage rewarding exploration while the puzzles and combat encounters quickly become routine. It's hard to write Carrion off entirely because the novel concept has its charm, but without more depth and variety, it’s easy to lose your appetite for consuming flesh.

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.

While repetition sets in quickly and the rough edges can be distracting, Iron Man VR is so unique among superhero games that it feels absolutely essential for fans of this character. When the visor locks in and the weapons-HUD flashes on, it’s clear the best Iron Man games are going to be in VR. This first attempt is a solid blueprint; perhaps stronger tech and more time in the lab can generate better results.

Even with the disappointing episodic format, if you're looking for classic Castlevania, Curse of the Moon 2 is a largely excellent way to satisfy that craving. It can be grueling at times, but the gauntlet it runs you through is worthwhile to conquer. Considering there hasn't been a peep about any proper Castlevania games, hopefully there can be a lot more Bloodstained in the near future.

Rehydrated is a good remake that wonderfully updates aspects of the original. Even though the horde mode is bad and some aspects of the campaign can feel dated, going through Bikini Bottom as SpongeBob and his crew is still a lot of fun. Most importantly, it captures the charm of the show in a way that fans can appreciate the most. While the majority of licensed games get lost to time, it’s nice to see Battle for Bikini Bottom remembered and brought back.

Disintegration is solid and does a good job with its mix of FPS and RTS elements. The strategy aspects feel a little shallow, and neither the campaign nor multiplayer modes really go above and beyond in any way, but there’s still an enjoyable and interesting premise here. Disintegration’s mashup of genres isn’t revolutionary, but its different approach is worth a look.

The Last of Us Part II presents an absolutely crucial and challenging narrative about love and hate. Characters have convincing motivations that leave you thinking about more than what’s in front of you. The places it takes you to are awe-inspiring to explore, with unrivaled attention to detail, and although the combat is somewhat forgiving, it remains thrilling throughout much of the harrowing journey. The Last of Us Part II leaves a deep, emotional impact, and this unforgettable continuation should not be missed.

Xenoblade Chronicles is a landmark title, and at the very least, this Definitive Edition only adds credence to that claim. While there are undoubtedly aspects that weren't great originally and are still not great here, such as the copious side quests, it's hard to deny the overwhelming amount of things the game knocks out of the park. There is a compelling story brought to life by great characters, a thoughtful battle system, and a generous world that’s a joy to explore.

With its crisscrossing alternate storylines and the various possibilities of its branching class system, Trials of Mana is an interesting game to experiment with. There are some elements of this remake’s production that are worth griping about, but at the same time, it unquestionably improves on some of the more convoluted aspects of the original. What’s key is that whether you’re brawling with Kevin or casting spells with Angela, battles feel fun and active. Trials of Mana is not only worth giving a shot, but also worth coming back to for a second or third run as well.

Ultimately, Maneater's biggest flaw is repetition. What's here is good, and playing as a shark has never felt better. But, activities can quickly feel routine as you do the same types of objectives over and over. Still, if you want to carve a bloody path of carnage as a horrifying shark, there’s nothing quite like it.

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.

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.

Resident Evil Resistance is wildly inconsistent. There are great ideas buried underneath abysmal balancing, annoying technical issues, and matchmaking woes. Playing as series icons like William Birkin and Mr. X is an appreciated novelty, but the routine objectives make playing as the survivors tiresome. With enough love and care, hopefully Resistance’s better ideas can rise to the surface, but right now there’s still a lot of work to be done.

Fans have waited an absurd amount of time for a Half-Life game in any form, but when you're playing, the wait is really the furthest thing from your mind. Alyx is so completely captivating that as soon as you put it down, you want to talk to someone about it, get them to play it, really do anything you can to make them feel the same awe that you do. Like any great VR experience, it's something you can't possibly understand fully until you try it, but once you do, it's hard to recognize Alyx as anything other than a monumental achievement.

Two weeks worth of New Horizons makes us want even more. Several parts of the day-to-day grind should be accelerated or skipped, but so much of it has already been impressively streamlined compared to prior entries. The series has been a welcoming companion on any console, but it feels especially at home on the Switch, whether you’re visiting a friend’s wonderland online, taking your tropical getaway on the road, checking your progress first thing in the morning, or gathering some last-minute supplies before you turn in for the night. This is the best Animal Crossing has ever been, and this virtual paradise is a wonderful place to escape to.

Final Fantasy VII is an ambitious retelling that updates its systems and story for the modern era. The new battle system is fantastic and does a superb job of blending strategy and action. Additional stories and character moments are appreciated, and the way each character is portrayed is perfect. Some technical aspects could be better, but if future installments maintain this trajectory, we can all rest easy.

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.

Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Rescue Team DX is a decent remake that nicely updates its presentation, but fails to improve upon its most prominent aspects. Exploring dungeons and battling should be standout features that excite and motivate you, but it quickly becomes a mundane routine. If you're a big Pokémon fan, you may find enough enjoyment out of recruiting new pokémon and building up your rescue team, but if you're looking for more beyond the Pokémon license, this Mystery Dungeon may not offer enough to keep you engaged.

Doom Eternal is a monster of a game, uncompromising and purposeful in its decision making. Crucial to its success is that it doesn't feel like it's trying to cater to everyone. Eternal can be unforgiving, and there will no doubt be those who bounce off its razor sharp edges. Yet by not watering itself down, Doom Eternal comes away with an incredible focus. This is a blazingly fast shooter that demands amazing feats of skill. Those willing to baptize themselves in the fire will walk away with the kind of satisfaction that few AAA games have the audacity to give.

As the future season of baseball remains in doubt, there is truly no better time for MLB The Show 20. A host of subtle refinements on the field rewards skillful play, while the new Showdown mode is both high-stakes and easy to jump into. The ability to buy stubs outright is annoying, but the streamlined progression rewards are another step in the right direction. Whether you’re a veteran or a newcomer, MLB The Show 20 is a comforting doorway into Major League Baseball.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps retains what the original did well, trims what held it back, and then manages to add in wonderful new elements that elevate this follow-up to new heights. It boasts a fantastic soundtrack and stunning visuals that work perfectly together to craft a beautiful atmosphere. It tops it all off with an emotional story culminating in a great ending that ties together both games. Meanwhile optional side quests offer wonderful insights into this new world. It’s an exceptional game that you don’t want to miss.

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.

Zombie Army 4: Dead War is a solid addition to the zombie genre. Thoughtful enemy encounters and meaningful progression contribute to an energetic and chaotic pace. It’s also agreeably accessible for players across a range of skill levels whether you play solo or with friends. If you’ve never played a Zombie Army title and love killing Nazis, this is a great place to start.

It’s obvious you get a tremendous amount of value for the price. If you crave a creative outlet, the tools here are effective and easy to learn, and the army of full or part-time developers appear ready to embrace your work. If you just want a wide range of weird games to play, you’ll find your queue refilled on a regular basis with surprises that couldn’t have been realized any other way. There are definitely things Media Molecule needs to focus on now that early access is over, and it’ll be a treat to see the game grow over time, but what’s here now is absolutely incredible.

While Kunai might not stand toe-to-toe with the likes of Ori or Hollow Knight, there’s much to love, including fantastic controls, rewarding secrets, and zesty facial expressions. This little tablet has a lot of heart, and a lot of hats.

Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is a solid entry in the long-running line of games based on the franchise. It's clear CyberConnect2 put a lot of love into this project, and it especially shows in how the story and locations are presented. However, it's held back by repetitive combat encounters and dull side quests. Despite its shortcomings, Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot is still an enjoyable adventure whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer.

Shovel Knight: King of Cards is a wonderful send-off to an already amazing game. Its platforming and level design are excellent, and the extra card game keeps us coming back for more. Though it's a little sad that this is the grand finale for a game we love so much, Yacht Club Games has done an excellent job with bringing the Shovel Knight saga to an end.

This latest Need for Speed doesn’t have any luck-based schemes disrupting the progression this time around, but there’s nothing moving the series forward either. The core parts that have been strong in the past aren’t quite as potent here, and the supporting elements feel directionless and half-baked. Need for Speed Heat is like a beat up old ride that’s still good to burn some rubber and get you around town, but don’t expect to turn any heads along the way.

Star Ocean: First Departure R is the best way to experience the original entry in a historically important series that often gets overlooked. It offers moderate quality of life improvements over its PSP counterpart, and retains the portable appeal with the Switch version. There’s a solid RPG here full of unique mechanics, charm, and lots of originality, but its age is definitely starting to show.

Shenmue 3 faithfully continues the next chapter of Ryo Hazuki’s journey. After an 18-year wait against seemingly impossible odds and expectations, the end result is mostly successful. Welcoming locations and an absorbing plot are held back by presentation issues, while the combat system just hasn’t come together. Regardless, Shenmue 3 is a nostalgic return to a different time and a priceless reward for anyone invested in Lan Di’s demise.

If you have a decent interest in Pokémon, there is a largely enjoyable time to be had with the latest generation. There’s still a magic present that nothing else has been able to quite replace, and the improvements and additions are meaningful. It's also easy to want a mightier effort. There are times when you can see where the game could be so much better, and it's frustrating how it falls short of ideas that seem to be right in front of it. Whether it's the fact that a beloved pokémon might not be in the game, the mediocre story, or a strong sense of having seen a lot of this before, you may be left hoping that the next effort packs a more substantial punch.

If you have a decent interest in Pokémon, there is a largely enjoyable time to be had with the latest generation. There’s still a magic present that nothing else has been able to quite replace, and the improvements and additions are meaningful. It's also easy to want a mightier effort. There are times when you can see where the game could be so much better, and it's frustrating how it falls short of ideas that seem to be right in front of it. Whether it's the fact that a beloved pokémon might not be in the game, the mediocre story, or a strong sense of having seen a lot of this before, you may be left hoping that the next effort packs a more substantial punch.

If you have a decent interest in Pokémon, there is a largely enjoyable time to be had with the latest generation. There’s still a magic present that nothing else has been able to quite replace, and the improvements and additions are meaningful. It's also easy to want a mightier effort. There are times when you can see where the game could be so much better, and it's frustrating how it falls short of ideas that seem to be right in front of it. Whether it's the fact that a beloved pokémon might not be in the game, the mediocre story, or a strong sense of having seen a lot of this before, you may be left hoping that the next effort packs a more substantial punch.

Star Wars is a beloved series, and when a new game comes out, some particular hopes and expectations come with it. There are excellent games in the franchise, but it's been a while since they’ve reached those heights. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has combat that feels tight and impactful, and exploring each of its imaginative worlds gives a great sense of discovery. It’s a fantastic title that stands as one of the best Star Wars games yet.

There’s a lot of potential in the combination of the Mario and Sonic universes, and the Olympic setting is one of the grandest stages of them all. Yet after over a decade, the developers simply can’t make the series live up to its massive billing. The retro angle could have been the missing ingredient, but the game doesn't lean into this strength enough. What’s left is a party game that’s fun for a few hours, but will just as quickly be forgotten.

Luigi’s Mansion 3 shines with personality, and every time you take the elevator to a new floor, it feels like a pleasant surprise. The game does a lot to move the series forward, but in ways that feel so natural, it’s hard to imagine playing without its new additions. It’s easily the best game in the series, and we’re glad Luigi’s been given another chance to step out of the shadows.

The world of Cat Quest 2 is sizable, but there isn’t much complexity in its minute-to-minute gameplay. However that directness, along with how quickly you level up, finish quests, and discover new locations, can make it a hard game to put down. You handle one task at a time, so it’s easy to pick back up or add a second player. At 8 to 10 hours or so, depending on your focus and patience, this adventure ends abruptly but doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s challenging enough for solo players, but also fun for two players of any age and skill level.

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.

While there are some details to refine, what stands out most is just how complete and cohesive The Outer Worlds is. Every system works in tandem. Companions support your skills, people comment on what you wear, and choices have lasting consequences. There are so many variables in how the story can go, but as you play, it does such an excellent job of reinforcing your decisions and making you feel like you’re on the right path.

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.

MediEvil does a good job of addressing some of the problems found in the original while sticking close to the source material. The updated visuals and audio are great, and it’s more pleasant to play thanks to the improved interface. Even though some aspects can feel dated or way too straightforward, journeying through this dark and spooky world is still satisfying. Whether you're a fan of the original or enjoy other action-adventure games of the era, MediEvil is a solid choice.