Last Epoch is truly the perfect middle ground between Diablo 4 and Path of Exile, but this feature is not enough to make it an action RPG masterpiece. At present, the Eleventh Hour Games title is nothing more than a good hack and slash that entertains for several dozen hours, but which fails to leave its mark due to a lackluster artistic direction and a rather monotonous endgame.

Ultimately, Call of Duty Warzone Mobile represents what is currently the most complete experience for fans of the series. Completely free of charge, it is possible to play the two most popular Warzone maps and access classic multiplayer without having to purchase a premium chapter of the saga. Too bad only for the poor optimization for devices that are not too recent and for the excessive consumption in terms of battery, problems that cannot be circumvented by installing the game on a PC.

MLB The Show 24 proves to be a solid simulation: not only has San Diego Studio solved some flaws but has perfected the gameplay even further. After a couple of slightly subdued years, the series seems to have stabilized at a high level: for those who want to get closer to the world of baseball there is nothing better around. To seduce veterans of the series, SDS has embellished the fabulous Storylines with a couple of truly spot-on additions (Toni Stone and Derek Jeter), giving more or less substantial tweaks to all the other modes. The technical sector has progressed even if the polygonal models and player animations in some situations reveal the limits of cross-gen production. The sound is simply fabulous: you can really feel the magic of a Stars and Stripes baseball game. SDS once again confirms its undeniable talent: MLB The Show 24 is one of the most successful episodes of the last period as well as one of the best sports simulations of the year.

South Park Snow Day tries to once again change the reference genre of the franchise by moving towards the rogue-like: the cyclical setting, however, is undermined by an underlying repetitiveness and runs with little content and an overly confusing battle system. Also slapped in the face by a technical sector not up to the requirements, the winning ideas are not many and they are all linked to a narrative in line with the series. Fans of the South Park universe will have something to enjoy, especially thanks to the selling price of Snow Day (29.99 euros), but after The Stick of Truth and Scontri Di Recti it was reasonable to expect something more.

Rise of the Ronin is undoubtedly the most ambitious of the titles developed by Team Ninja up to this point, as well as the riskiest. This is because the vision modeled by the studio led it to face unprecedented challenges in terms of design and technical implementation, deriving from the choice to opt for an open world that frames a more complex narrative structure than that of the previous productions of the Japanese collective. Unfortunately, the aspects that go beyond Team Ninja's "comfort zone" are also the least convincing, in the face of a playful core that reaffirms the developer's talent for creating layered and satisfying combat systems, this time with an eye towards accessibility. The combat system itself is the element that vigorously raises the qualitative balance of Rise of the Ronin, capable of offering hours and hours of martial contests that are as intense as they are exciting. Such is the merit of the combat-progression combo, that it is easy to establish how a more linear structure focused on clashes would have given greater impetus to the proposal, perhaps limiting the technical compromises that the game clearly manifests. Overall, therefore, Rise of the Ronin offers a worthwhile experience, as well as more accessible than the average of Team Ninja's productions, although the route towards the open world has limited the potential of the proposal.

Princess Peach Showtime! she was able to convince us with few reservations. Net of the technical uncertainties and some less successful than average roles to be played, the title from Nintendo and Good-Feel showcases an accessible, highly entertaining and pleasantly varied gaming system, enriched by sensational artistic direction. In short, if you love this kind of adventures, you shouldn't miss the appointment with Princess Peach.

Dragon's Dogma 2 is a title that thrives on exaggerations, to be tackled slowly with curiosity and a spirit of adventure. If you decide to accept the rules, the fantasy world created by Itsuno will give you a truly satisfying combat system, extremely creative and full of epic moments. The non-linear quests and an extremely dense map are elements that could have led Capcom's title towards heights of absolute excellence, however the ascent was slowed down by artificial intelligence that was not always performing, some small problems with the balance between classes and some too much cumbersomeness. The latest arrival from Capcom still remains a very high level product: the important thing is to know that it is not suitable for every type of user.

Ultimately, this return of Alone in the Dark is a project that was only able to convince us halfway. On the one hand there is excellent writing, capable of keeping you glued to the screen for the entire duration of the campaign while, on the other, we find a playful structure that thrives on ups and downs and a shaky technical realization, elements that prevent the title from Pieces and THQ Nordic to take flight. In any case, fans of the genre and admirers of the brand might consider venturing into the gloomy Derceto manor.

Ultimately, the HD remastering of The Legend of Legacy shows the same structural and content problems that plagued the original. It is a rather unique game that deviates from some classic JRPG styles to propose its own, very personal vision which, however, leaves out too many of the elements that have made this particular video game category great. We appreciated the work done on the visual component, but the disappointing narrative structure and the aforementioned critical gameplay issues do not allow the game to really stand out. If you are an avid fan of the genre and are looking for a project that is a little different from the usual, you could give it a chance, otherwise today's market offers alternatives of a very different caliber.

Outcast A New Beginning offers sometimes interesting alien settings, the backdrops to an overall enjoyable story, albeit lacking in peaks of excellence. In addition to the technical stumbles, the game combines cutscenes and dubbing that aren't always up to par, repetitive tasks that are generally very simple in structure, as well as battles that lose their bite due to the limits of the AI that moves our opponents. Furthermore, the progression thrives on phlegmatic rhythms, which do not go well with the fun exploratory possibilities offered by the use of the jetpack. In other words, this new Cutter Slade adventure could have done more.

Unicorn Overlord is a particular, almost indecipherable product. Vanillaware's new SRPG has adopted a refined and complex combat system which, although satisfying and engaging, may not suit all tastes, due to too many automatic mechanisms and the excessive micromanagement required. Characterized by the unmistakable style that distinguishes the productions of the Japanese team, Unicorn Overlord has nevertheless revealed itself to be a multi-faceted and ambitious strategy game, underlining once again the unparalleled creative flair of Vanillaware. If the overly classic story and totally automated battles don't scare you, make it yours and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of Fevrith.

Fossilizing yourself on the past can sometimes be counterproductive, and the risk of inheriting its strengths and weaknesses is high. Contra Operation Galuga's level design hasn't always thrilled us, and we feel the same about the artistic direction behind the experience. The game, however, winks at those nostalgic for the saga, who will have no difficulty feeling at ease in tackling the missions throughout the Galuga archipelago, undoubtedly capable of entertaining long-time fans.

The Thaumaturge is an ambitious isometric RPG with an interesting story, which the player can lead to ever-changing and unexpected situations with well-considered moral choices. The artistic direction is inspired and does justice to the historical setting represented. As for the salutors, we would have only liked to see more of them, which is an indication of the good quality and characterization of those present in the game. A somewhat repetitive combat system and the technical sector with too many uncertainties, unfortunately, partially slow down the enthusiasm, but all in all we would still like to say that The Thaumaturge is a recommended role-playing experience; if nothing else, to lovers of the genre who are always eager for narrative crossroads and well-written dialogues.

The Outlast Trials is a half-successful product. The title by Red Barrels hits the target and offers truly convincing characters and settings, which allow it to come pleasantly close in atmosphere to film productions such as Hostel and Saw. At the same time, the developers have not made the most of the potential of the experience, which tends to lose bite over time without encouraging the player, alone or in company, to undergo the same experiments over and over again.

WWE 2K24 does not reinvent the wheel, but expands both the match pool of the last chapter and the possibilities of the combat system, which continues to work well despite some historical rough edges. The Showcase mode has some imperfections, but it's a pearl for any WrestleMania fan and the two My Rise careers aren't bad at all either. If we add to this the many small innovations in practically every dimension of the experience, which is based on valid but not exciting technological solutions, the reasons that made us appreciate this year's edition appear even more evident. The Visual Concepts title is a great wrestling playground, with a disproportionate number of wrestlers and a keen eye for local multiplayer, and represents a solid foundation on which to build the future of the franchise.

In the ocean of remastered and remakes for their own sake, we are happy to be able to enthusiastically welcome the work done by Avantgarden on Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake, a graphic and sound remake which, in the opinion of the writer, should be the standard for those who aim to relaunch their works on the market. It is a reissue that exudes love for the work done by Josef Fares and his team, and therefore worthy of respect. Whether you know the work or not, as the credits roll, it will be impossible not to get caught up in the emotion.

The unexpected complexity of Terminator Dark Fate Defiance proves to be a key element in restoring dignity to the saga from which it draws inspiration, traditionally unlucky in its video game adaptations. The tie-in proposed by Slitherine stands out as an engaging and challenging adventure, confronting us with a substantial challenge and presenting hordes of well-armored and equipped enemies. Despite some obvious flaws, the large-scale management phases and the ability to influence the progress of the game based on the choices made give the game a surprising strategic depth. It is a production which, despite being small in size, stands out for its almost role-playing structure, without forgetting, and indeed enhancing, its strategic roots. The complexity of the battles should not discourage newbies, considering the presence of the "Story Mode" difficulty, while fans of the saga and real-time strategy games should undoubtedly give this title a chance, certainly the best videogame transposition of the franchise in years to this part.

Inkulinati offers a unique experience capable of masterfully combining tactical elements with a fascinating setting. The mechanics based on medieval "marginalia" are implemented with expertise, giving depth to a gameplay suitable both for strategic veterans and for neophytes willing to immerse themselves in the rules with the patience of a monk scribe. Despite some small flaws in the interface and controls, the work done by the Yaza Games development team shines for its artistic creativity and attention to detail, making Inkulinati an essential title for lovers of the genre.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a very valid title, which once again demonstrates the enormous commitment made by the Square Enix team in the reconstruction and expansion of the seventh final fantasy. Although this second part of the journey of Cloud and his companions was not as "unknown" as promised, we appreciated all the narrative elements devised by the screenwriters of the Japanese giant, with the sole exception of the final chapter, which unfortunately proved to be lacking in several ways. wait. That said, the action RPG remains one of the most engaging and satisfying works of the House of Chocobo, which for the occasion has strengthened the role-playing component with the introduction of crafting, synergistic actions and an affinity system that will certainly be perfected with the arrival of the third and final part of the Remake Trilogy. However, the exploration is the most convincing aspect of the package, since outside of Midgar the albeit dying world of Final Fantasy VII has opened up to show us a good part of its wonders. On the downside, the technical sector is unfortunately mainly linked to the quality standards of the last generation. We will therefore have to wait for the next episode to truly enter the next-gen and witness the definitive rebirth of Final Fantasy VII.

Unfortunately Skull and Bones is marked by continuous qualitative fluctuations. Its open world is quite vast, but also a little empty, its pirate atmosphere is successful, but the narrative component is very uninteresting. What remains are the pleasant naval battles against other players, the collaboration between privateers in PvE, and the hopes linked to the progressive enrichment of the experience, aroused in us by the roadmap available on the official website of the game. For the moment, we say it with a bit of bitterness, Skull and Bones is still at the mercy of the waves.

Pacific Drive is a title that exudes passion from every exhaust pipe, and we can only be happy for Ironwood Studios and the love placed in their debut work. It is a game with a solid and well-tested design, but not always as functional as it should. Our advice is not to give up on boarding the station wagon: you might discover that getting lost in the meanders of the Area can have its positive sides and, considering the price of the ticket, you might as well take a tour.

Who would have thought that the world of League of Legends was suitable for a "cozy game"? Yet Bandle Tale a League of Legends Story works really well, at least for video game lovers who don't engage their minds too much. Its calming and relaxing power is undeniable, and lies in the combination of pastel graphics and light texture, perhaps too much so in reality. However, the gameplay loop based on improving one's resource gathering, crafting and decoration skills is solid and varied, with objects, tools and accessories to unlock and build. Everything is embellished with an essential artistic direction, which seems "tailor-made" on the chill genre. In short, when an online session of LoL has got you a little too pumped up, a spin on Bandle Tale is ideal to calm down a bit.

Helldivers 2 was a pleasant surprise and represents the perfect evolution of that twin stick shooter that many players fell in love with back in 2016. Apart from the server problems, which seem to be in the process of being resolved, and some technical problems which we hope will disappear with future updates, the shooter by Arrowhead Game Studios is unmissable for anyone who appreciates the genre and has the opportunity to enjoy it in the company of a few friends. If we then consider the approach to microtransactions and the budget price, there are very few reasons not to take a walk in space and spread democracy.

Net of some lightness, which concerns both the technical and the gaming sectors, Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft is a value package, which will not fail to accompany fans of the first hour on a pleasant walk down memory lane. Players less accustomed to the harshness of games of the past (we're talking about almost thirty years ago), may however find the gameplay of the trilogy rather indigestible. Since this is a collection of remasters, we cannot help but appreciate Aspyr Media's work, which earns a place among the most successful works of the British studio.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong is a valid remake of a great classic. The gameplay formula has remained almost unchanged compared to twenty years ago but, fortunately, it still appears quite fresh and fun. Despite an uninspired artistic direction, the NST title brings with it two completely new worlds, the hilarious two-player mode and the new Relax difficulty, which makes it accessible to a wide range of players. If you have never had the opportunity to get to know this peculiar spin-off of Super Mario or you simply want to relive the emotions experienced on Game Boy Advance two decades ago, this could be the opportunity you have been waiting for.

Ultimately, Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden is configured as a solid action RPG, whose merit, however, is limited by a general lack of refinement in the fundamental mechanics. The real highlight of the production, as often happens with Don't Nod's works, is certainly to be found in the writing, full of brilliant ideas and generally very inspired. If you are looking for a title that knows how to correctly combine a dark atmosphere setting with a passionate (and at times heartbreaking) love story, you are in the right place. The horrors of New Eden await you.

Ultros is an essential experience not only for lovers of the metroidvania genre, but for anyone looking for a work with spirit and character. He doesn't claim to reinvent anything and consciously chooses to do little, doing it well. As the credits rolled, we moved away from the screen aware of the fact that something inside us had left the game. Or rather, sown.

Foamstars has some distinctive elements on its side and also knows how to provide a few hours of fun. The fact is that after the "adjustment games" we understood that the experience would not be enough to extricate ourselves from all the foam that filled the screen. Surrounded by too much confusion, the game does not properly highlight its potential: the protagonist heroes, their original designs and the various movesets suitable for different purposes. If Square Enix wants to support Foamstars, it will not be enough to increase the number of heroes, paid cosmetic items or arenas and modes. In short, the road to success is uphill. And it's soapy too. Then there is a bit of a bitter taste in the mouth for a content offer that for the moment does not push you to extend your stay in Bath Vegas.

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League could have been saved, in his evaluation, by the narrative plot: beyond the goodness of the writing of the protagonists, however, there is nothing else, because even the idiosyncrasies with the comic book counterparts they scream before the eyes of passionate readers. That should have and could have been the main target to address, but even the most ferocious enthusiasts would have found fault with this arid content proposal. Metropolis is bare, it is a desert which, although justified by the plot devices, is not sufficient for our gaming era. The missions are all repetitive, some suffocating the yield, even worse than what Insomniac tried to do with Mary Jane's stealth in Spider-Man 2. What remains to be saved are the technical profile, of an excellent level, and the gunplay, which is pleasant for who wants to shoot with little worry and blow up everything possible. But at this price, it is only worth it if the post-launch support proves to be of incredible workmanship, enough to overturn the table.

Silent Hill The Short Message is a product that misses the mark and fails to best deal with extremely serious and delicate issues. Net of the problems relating to writing, narrative rhythm, and playful composition, it is still a completely free game that guarantees around 90 minutes of entertainment within an atmospheric scenario, thanks also to the contribution of two figures key who worked on past episodes of the series. As mentioned, however, the quality of this entertainment undergoes rather significant declines during the path traced by the adventure, towards an ending that many will reach with some difficulty.

The result of a troubled development dotted with "accidents along the way", even important ones, such as the change of engine and developer, Granblue Fantasy: Relink may not be the masterpiece that eight years ago it promised to become, but overall it remains an action Adrenaline-filled and addictive RPG like few others. At times chaotic, its frenetic combat system - which at regular intervals offers clashes with titanic beasts which at least in terms of epic nature have nothing to envy of the battles of the PlatinumGames games - proved to be much deeper and more multifaceted than expected, guaranteeing many different approaches to the fight that we are convinced will satisfy any palate. Some of Cygames' choices are not fully convincing, however the product remains an essential purchase for anyone who professes to be a true JRPG enthusiast.

Persona 3 Reload is undoubtedly the best way to recover the masterpiece made in Atlus. The excellent artistic direction, an excellent sound system and a greater depth of the protagonists of the story place this remake among the best exponents of the saga. The gameplay sequences set in Tartarus would have benefited from a few more creative twists capable of breaking up the repetitiveness, but in any case we are faced with an obligatory purchase for every lover of the Persona saga and for all fans of old-style JRPGs.

Stargate Timekeepers wants to bring the iconic sci-fi series back into vogue in the gaming world, but it succeeds with some glaring uncertainty in tow. The plot has some brighter moments towards the conclusion (of the first half) but also some inconsistencies linked to a characterization of the characters that is not always effective. The offensive possibilities within the tactical mode are interesting but also limited, as is the breadth of environments which ended up underlining some unrefined aspects of the gameplay. Timekeepers may appeal to the most avid fans of the franchise, but it lacks the refinements that could have made it an RTS capable of reaching greater heights. It remains to be seen whether future additions and improvements will increase the effectiveness of the gaming experience.

Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney Trilogy is a simple remaster, but the three games that comprise it have stood the test of time quite well. The gameplay is still immediate today, the puzzles, riddles and cases to solve are stimulating but not frustrating, and the updated mechanics for the new platforms work well. We already knew the plots, they are mysterious enough and all the characters, not just the protagonists, are well characterized. Graphically, then, it is incredible to see all the models and animations in high definition, the "Objections!" and the expressions of both 3D models and the more classic flat illustrations. It's just a shame for the lack of localization in Italian and for the extras, which are poorly looked after and rather banal. It may seem like a small deficiency, but having them or not makes a lot of difference, especially for those who have already picked through the original chapters several times.

With an improved combat system, its brand new jobs and lots of fun, guaranteed by the Sujimon League and the rest of the secondary activities, Infinite Wealth kept us immersed for dozens of hours in its world full of content, testifying once again to the talent of its creators. Ichiban's heroic journey to Hawaii can fascinate, but it is not without inconsistencies on the narrative front and in fact it was the portions of the plot designed to pay homage to the past of the saga - and the figure of Kiryu - that gave us the most intense emotional impacts. As long-time fans we are very happy about it, yet we are convinced that the series must find the courage to look more clearly towards the future. Regardless, Infinite Wealth is a great Like a Dragon, a concentration of fun and madness that opens this 2024 video game in the best possible way.

Tekken 8 is one of the most aesthetically pleasing fighting games on the market. The title has been taken care of down to the smallest detail and features a simplified combat system, while building on the very solid foundations of its predecessor. A varied roster and a first-rate single player component will guarantee endless hours of fun for every type of player. It's a shame for a few too many stumbles in the online component, which partially compromises a product that is absolutely excellent from every other point of view. Having said this, we have decided to reward the enormous amount of content present in the title and above all the extremely precise, pleasant and simple to understand teaching methods.

Net of the charm of the protagonists and an overall enjoyable combat system, Devil May Cry Peak of Combat is a product totally devoid of original ideas which limits itself to replicating what has been done by other free to play games, however obtaining results which are not even vaguely comparable in terms of effectiveness. So if you appreciate the formula, you'd better divert your attention to Honkai Impact 3rd and other free action games for mobile.

Ultimately, Another Code Recollection is a product that brings with it two authentic classics from the past, until now lost in the folds of time. The two graphic adventures developed by the now defunct Cing, despite no longer being able to rely on the gameplay ideas introduced by the original versions, are still confirmed today as notable exponents of the genre, especially in the case of the first chapter. The new technical sector and a series of features from a playful and narrative perspective make this re-edition a valid way to (re)discover the story of Ashley Mizuki Robbins.

In essence, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown convinced us almost without reservations. The adventure of Sargon and the Immortals in the heart of Mount Qaf is, without mincing words, one of the best metroidvanias around and yet another proof of the talent of Ubisoft Montpellier. It is a rather rich package in terms of content, equipped with a playful structure that works excellently in all its parts and embellished with a combat system that is at times galvanizing. While waiting for the announced remake of the unforgettable first chapter of the trilogy that began in 2003 (also lost in the Sands of Time?), fans of the series can rest easy: The Lost Crown is a delightful new beginning for the saga , a project that exudes all the passion instilled by its developers and a first, hopeful look at the future for one of the most important series of our beloved medium.

Ready or Not isn't the perfect simulator, but it's an excellent shooter that places users in consistently believable and detailed contexts, providing them with a myriad of options on how to operate. Net of some imperfections and a single level of difficulty that can put even the most experienced players' nerves to the test, it is the one and only spiritual heir of SWAT worthy of being defined as such.

The arrival of Marvel's Iron Man VR on Meta Quest 2 occurs extremely naturally. The maturity of the platform helps the title fill those gaps posed by the PSVR hardware and further elevates the gaming experience, making it more engaging. The graphics sector benefits from the higher resolution and, at the same time, the absence of long waits in transitions helps immersion in Tony Stark's adventure. The defects of the narrative remain the same but, overall, they do not undermine the enjoyment of the gaming package. Continuing on this path, Camouflaj can give us great emotions.

Overall, the Quest version of Green Hell is successful, albeit limited, and capable of dragging players into the wild jungle for many hours, teasing them thanks to the peculiarities of virtual reality. In short, it is a very stimulating experience that deserves to be included in your VR game library.

Years after the release of the previous iteration of the Monsters genre, The Dark Prince had the opportunity to modernize the historic playful formula of the spin-off and ferry it towards still unexplored lands. Despite the predictions, however, the development team seems to have almost completely given up on the idea of renewing the monster recruitment mechanics and above all the product's combat system, which appears tired and dated. Leaving aside the uncertainties of the performances, which we hope will be circumvented as soon as possible with a corrective patch, the bitterest pills are represented by the choice to make Psaro a silent protagonist and by a hasty screenplay, which in our opinion do not do justice to the dramatic story of one of the most charismatic antagonists of the entire saga. In short, the Lord of Monstrosity deserved treatment more in keeping with his worth.

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising is a real surprise. If you thought that the fighting game genre had run out of steam with Street Fighter 6, think again: the year of fighting games ends with a surprise twist. Impeccable netcode, Crossplay and rich single player content are just part of the numerous advantages of this production. If you are a newbie and want to enter the world of fighting games with a graphically clean product, with little chaos and no lengthy movelists, this is the title for you. Absolutely worth trying at least in the free version.

Arizona Sunshine 2 is exactly what we expected, the classic "bigger and better" sequel that improves and expands on what was good in the previous title. Among the new features we appreciated the introduction of Buddy, an excellent addition that enriches the gameplay and the player's involvement, without forgetting the new physical approach to fighting that enhances the characteristics of virtual reality. We cannot say the same for the crafting system, which proved to have little influence in the experience economy. Despite some technical flaws and a lack of enemy variety, the new shooter from Vertigo Games works very well and manages to offer a noteworthy campaign, presenting itself as one of the most valid zombie-themed products in the VR catalogue.

Net of some gameplay issues that make Avatar Frontiers of Pandora a sometimes wasted opportunity, Massive Entertainment's latest effort is the perfect product for taking a virtual journey through the lands of Pandora. In fact, it is a game that boasts extreme fidelity to the IP, both in terms of how the world is built and how the characters are characterized. In short, the most avid fans of James Cameron's films will be able to appreciate this aspect of the experience and turn a blind eye to the defects.

Assassin's Creed Nexus VR is a successful experiment. Three already well-known protagonists and as many different eras to experience in virtual reality, from Renaissance Italy to ancient Greece, passing through a Boston in revolt. The unpublished narrative fragments and the strong sense of immersion allow us to turn a blind eye to some playful uncertainties, and give us the opportunity to experience a chapter of Assassin's Creed like never before.

Colorful, lively, fun: KarmaZoo proved to be a pleasant surprise which, although not rich in content, will make your gaming sessions pleasant and relaxing. The ambitions of the project, although limited, find full fulfillment in a simple but functional gameplay, and this is also why we hope to see an expansion of the experience with future updates.

Asterix & Obelix Slap Them All 2 takes up the strengths and critical points of its predecessor, because both in terms of visual and gameplay it has confirmed itself as an overly conservative sequel. There are some small but welcome improvements in terms of variety of levels but the experience is not characterized by particular creative flashes and in the long run it becomes repetitive. In any case, we are talking about a decent scrolling fighting game that is above all pleasant to look at, thanks to the successful cartoony presentation of the image. If you are a fan of Asterix and Obelix and have a friend to play it with, Slap Them All 2 could still be for you, as long as you don't expect an adventure driven by particular ambitions.

Christmas Massacre is a magnificent disaster. Puppet Combo's latest effort can't even remotely compete with sacred monsters like Hotline Miami, but that doesn't mean it's a product to ignore. In fact, it is a short and affordable experience whose purchase could be considered by those who want nothing more than to have a laugh, perhaps in the company of some friends and in the midst of the Christmas holidays.

Sociable Soccer 24 takes up the baton of Sensible Soccer, but we are clearly talking about a more modern and therefore different experience. He's still faithful to the hit-and-run approach, to quick matches, to "I'll play the last match and then I'll stop". The single player campaign, although simple in structure, is entertaining enough, while local games with friends can be addictive. The variety of players and teams guaranteed by the official licenses is good and the graphics are essential, with some rough edges, but also characteristic. Unfortunately, online multiplayer is very problematic at the moment and we hope that the experts can work to improve the situation as soon as possible. In the meantime, we recommend Sociable Soccer 24 to those looking for a fiercely arcade and immediacy football experience.

Flashback 2 is a forgettable sequel. After his debut in 1992, it is not the first time we have seen the protagonist Conrad again, but it is almost certainly the worst. Flashback 2 even pales in comparison to Fade to Black, a short 3D sequel released in 1995, and also in comparison to the controversial 2013 remake, criticized for being considered "not very heartfelt". The new Microids title is unfortunately impossible to recommend, because it is marred by technical inaccuracies, characterized by a banal artistic direction and an unrefined and imprecise gameplay.

The Last Faith is a soulslike metroidvania with many strengths and weaknesses. An experience that oscillates between satisfying and frustrating due to a somewhat lazy level design and, above all, an incorrect balance of the forces in play. Sometimes there are too many enemies in a small space, Bosses who are too resistant, or poorly distributed checkpoints. However, the not too high price, the inspired artistic direction, the many beautiful pixel art models are good incentives to give the game a chance, especially if you are passionate about the genre.

Thanks to the absence of new mechanics capable of livening up a gameplay that is starting to be a little too monotonous, rather than the compendium promised to fans of the brand, the tie-in seemed like a half-hearted and haphazardly assembled task. A real stopgap, in the wake of what was done at the time with Ultimate STORM Generations and Revolution, waiting for the inevitable video game adaptation of Boruto: Naruto Next Generations to finally take shape.

Net of some rough edges in terms of gameplay, the absence of co-op and a sometimes repetitive campaign, Teardown is surprising. Every single scenario is like a huge playground where the user is free to do whatever he likes, and not only in the Sandbox mode but also to finish the story missions. If we then consider that the production is available from day one in the PlayStation Plus Extra/Premium subscription (and is compatible with streaming in the PS5 cloud) we can only advise you to try to demolish some buildings made of voxels at least once.

Ultimately, the remake of Super Mario RPG presents itself to fans in an exceptional graphic format that covers the same gameplay that had projected the original Legend of the Seven Stars into the Olympus of the best JRPGs in the history of the medium. Although we understand how someone can turn up their nose at a gaming system that has essentially stopped thirty years ago, in our opinion it was essential that a game so important for Super Mario's 'career' reach a new audience in the most faithful form possible to the one that appeared on SNES in 1996. After all, Mario RPG is a very important piece in the evolutionary mosaic of the modern age of video games, one of those works of art that should be handed down to posterity and which deserve to be preserved for as long as possible. This is the best opportunity to fill any gap in your cultural background as a gamer.

Can Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 be considered an expansion sold at full price? In part yes, and this element inevitably affects the vote, like the questionable single campaign. At the same time, however, it is impossible to pretend nothing has happened: the multiplayer component is the most fun to play in recent years and includes a pack of maps much loved by fans. Unless you buy COD just for the campaign and are willing to turn a blind eye to the lack of major innovations compared to last year, it is really difficult for you to be disappointed by the classic multiplayer of this chapter.

Warcraft Rumble turned out to be a surprisingly deep and engaging strategic experience. Despite some technical drawbacks, the game has managed, in our opinion, to fit into the crowded market of "tower offense" titles for mobile devices thanks to an unexpected depth of gameplay mechanics and its very refined graphic style . Those who are willing to overcome the obstacles of monetization and a difficulty curve that is not perfectly balanced will find themselves faced with an excellent product, capable of entertaining for hours and hours.

Just like his Phantom Thieves, ATLUS isn't missing a beat and, against all odds, Persona 5 Tactica has proven to be a solid and enjoyable tactician. Despite P-Studio's inexperience with the aforementioned gaming genre, the combat system seemed functional and profound, also thanks to the numerous mechanics borrowed from the saga and expertly grafted onto the new formula. If you loved the atmosphere, the dynamics and above all the protagonists of the original, put aside any skepticism due to the change of look and let your heart be stolen once again by the amazing Phantom Thieves.

Ufo Robot Grendizer The Feast of Wolves is a game designed by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. And nothing else. In Italy the localization operation gave us a magnificent dubbing: adhering to the original also in the choice of timbre of the voice actors and voice actresses, as well as in the tones, vocabulary and theatricality. If you don't get bored of facing about 5 hours of very basic challenges and combat just to enjoy these moments of profound nostalgia, then feel free to raise your final rating by half a point. Perhaps with Ufo Robot by Microids you could make a younger relative experience, in an interactive format, a story from your past: the legend of the "thousand valve circuits" and the "miracle of electronics" that "sprints and goes in space".

Little Goody Two Shoes is a work that alternates elements of absolute merit with others that are less successful. Greater attention to the adventure, survival and dating sim components would undoubtedly have benefited by offering a more complete and satisfying experience. It's unfortunate that the developers of AstralShift didn't dedicate the same attention to them as they did in the delightful artistic profile of the title.

Conceived as a smaller spin-off and also sold at a budget price, Like A Dragon Gaiden The Man Who Erased His Name proves to be another solid addition to the historic Yakuza series. Taking on the role of Kazuma Kiryu again is a pleasure thanks also to the original "Agent" fighting style, and the work is abundant enough in content to provide healthy entertainment for quite a long time. What shines above all is the story, which is shorter but therefore also more intense and which gets straight to the point, providing memorable moments and developments full of twists and turns as per the brand's tradition. Of course, it doesn't have any particular ambition and simply follows the safe path already followed by the most recent episodes, and the Dragon Engine is starting to feel the weight of the years a bit, however Like A Dragon Gaiden has achieved its goal: reintroducing Kiryu among the protagonists and prepare the way for the long-awaited Like A Dragon Infinite Wealth. Mission accomplished.

The Invincible proved to be a successful homage and an adventure capable of capturing the complexity and restlessness of Stanislaw Lem's work. Despite some negligible frivolities, the attention to detail and the depth of the story fully repay the gaming experience, offering all lovers of narrative adventures (or those who want to approach the gaming model) a title to take into serious consideration.

New season, new Football Manager: the twentieth episode of the series stands as a watershed between the glorious past and the future. Sports Interactive is preparing to revolutionize the series in the next chapter, which will bring a brand new 3D engine and many other improvements. Contrary to what Sports Interactive says, FM 2024 is not the best episode of the series but it is the worthy closure of a journey that began two decades ago: apart from the expected compatibility with the FM 23 saves, the new features proposed are nothing sensational. However, it still works very well, thanks to many adjustments here and there, small additions (intermediaries and set pieces, for example), better interaction with players and a 3D engine that seems to have reached full maturity. Also available on Game Pass, FM 2024 confirms itself as the usual majestic and encyclopedic management simulation. The sweet football obsession for millions of players.

Eliminating hordes of criminals with the Auto-9 while the soundtrack of the original film plays in the background is certainly a satisfying experience for fans. Net of pleasant moments, born of nostalgia and located mainly in the first portion of the game, RoboCop Rogue City is a decent game, but not particularly solid as a whole. In fact, it shows the side of a series of technical and gameplay problems to which anyone who is not a die-hard fan of the most famous policeman in cinema will hardly be able to turn a blind eye.

Jusant is certainly not the most ambitious work of Don't Nod in purely production terms, but with few well-used playful and narrative solutions it hits the mark. Anyone looking for an experience with a relaxed pace but capable of offering valid food for thought should certainly give it a chance.

Despite a less than brilliant pace, The Talos Principle 2 manages to strengthen the formula of its predecessor, offering fans of the genre not a simple puzzle game, but rather a work designed to offer a mature and engaging experience, capable of keeping people moving your mind even after you move away from the screen.

WarioWare Move It! it is one of the best variations of the long-lived Nintendo saga that has ever appeared. It is a chapter that has its roots in the successful motion control-based formula tested on the Nintendo Wii but elevates it to new heights, introducing some structural and content additions with a view to enriching and diversifying the experience. It is, without a doubt, one of the most exhilarating and entertaining multiplayer games currently available on the market.

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is an essential purchase for anyone who loved tri-Ace's masterpiece, as well as an unmissable opportunity for any newcomers to discover one of the best action RPGs of the 90s. By leaving the original plot unchanged and adding new mechanics to its frenetic combat system, the guys at Gemdrops have been able to create a faithful and at the same time innovative remake. The bizarre choice of combining the historic 2D sprites with a three-dimensional world recreated from scratch may not satisfy all tastes, especially those of the new generations, nevertheless we are firmly convinced that this restoration has greatly benefited what fans still consider the best Star Ocean ever.

When it comes to rallying, Codemasters is a guarantee. This new simulation from EA presents itself at the starting line with an offer that boasts an excellent balance between quantity and quality of content and which, as per tradition, puts the driving experience at the centre. There is no shortage of sporadic stumbles, yet EA Sports WRC boasts a compelling career, a respectable fleet of cars and a deep, challenging and satisfying driving model. In short, we are talking about a must-have for fans of this sporting discipline.

Despite a good start and a decent graphics section, Stray Souls is a disappointing product. The procedural jumpscare system misses the mark and the combat system is simply disastrous, so much so that it pushes the player to run away every time he encounters a hostile creature. To close the circle there is a plot which, despite having some good ideas in true B-movie style, fails to shine due to the needlessly verbose dialogues and the terrible animations that break the involvement. In short, if you are looking for a horror film it would be best to look elsewhere.

Despite starting from truly intriguing assumptions, closely linked to a captivating aesthetic and a pleasantly grotesque narrative frame, the first DLC of Dead Island 2 does not add much to the proposal modeled by Dambuster Studios. Despite some occasional creative flashes, in fact, the expansion flows without leaving persistent traces, both on the playful side and on the purely narrative one. The potential was there, and we are sure that some will appreciate the "camp" drift chosen by the English team more than others, but ultimately Haus is a content that can easily be left out, waiting to see how the developer will complete the journey post-launch of Dead Island 2.

We're sure that Tequila Works didn't want to revolutionize the platform adventure genre, and therefore we won't say that Song of Nunu is a failed mission. The intention was to focus on a story with different and more subtle tones, far from what was done in the other League of Legends spin-offs. Song of Nunu is, in short, a more intimate adventure, very story driven and with some combat here and there to embellish everything. There is no great depth of design, nor layered mechanics: all the environmental puzzles are accessible, as are the fights, and the entire experience proceeds in this style. A simple game that sometimes becomes elementary and imprecise. Intriguing for anyone who wants to know a few more details about Nunu and Willump, less remarkable for anyone looking for an adventure to remember.

Linked to an already fluctuating production at the time of its debut, Gargoyles Remastered offers a pleasant graphic and sound restoration, not failing to add to the mix interesting possibilities such as real-time rewinding of the action. Unfortunately, however, it shows all the years of the original title and therefore, given its obvious limitations, it could struggle to attract the attention of anyone who was not a die-hard fan of the Mega Drive classic.

UFC 5 is an excellent simulator of one of the bloodiest and most choreographic combat sports around. The team has managed to package a solid product, full of modes and which will satisfy the most hardcore MMA fans. In short, we are talking about a good entry for newcomers to the world of UFC, but it is a little less fresh for those who have played the previous chapters. If UFC 5 marks your first approach to the world of mixed martial arts, add half a point to the rating.

A carousel of horrors that never stops spinning. A whirlwind expedition into the most perverse meanders of art. A work of great authorship and visual virtuosity which has the merit of being as courageous as it is original. It's a survival horror, yes, but mostly pro forma. Deep down it's something else. It is an experience that tangles the player's expectations, continuously knotting them so that unpredictability reigns supreme. It plays with artistic forms, with the concept of reality and multidimensionality, and does so using both the interactive medium and other communicative means of the modern era. Once this unconventional inspiration has been accepted and assimilated, according to the writer, the weight of the playful uncertainties, of a balance that is not always perfect between narrative and gameplay, of a few too many technical ripples is reduced. I like the idea of ​​rewarding experimentalism above all, the mix of genres and eclectic suggestions. I like Sam Lake's arrogance in wanting to leave his mark at all costs, with the careless desire to challenge conventions, more than he has ever done before. I like to think I live in a reality where Alan Wake 2 exists.

The Lord of the Rings Return to Moria unfortunately fails to stand up to the sacred monsters of the survival genre. Net of the excessive presence of combat, a construction system that is not too successful and a technical sector that is not the latest trend, the Free Range Games game succeeds in its aim of immersing players in the magical world of the Lord of the Rings and guaranteeing them a few hours of fun, especially if in the company of a group of friends.

Ghostrunner 2, ultimately, is a corrected and enhanced version of the title that had fascinated millions of players three years ago. The gameplay has been enriched with a series of structural and content features aimed at diversifying and improving the experience as a whole. In any case, it is a hardcore product, which will put even the most experienced users to the test, but capable of giving enormous satisfaction to those who decide to invest time in mastering its mechanics. If you are looking for a game capable of giving you a challenge worthy of the name and you appreciate the typical stylistic features of cyberpunk imagery, Ghostrunner 2 could be for you.

With its gripping plot and scenarios that can be explored with great pleasure, Kona 2 represents a worthy successor to the first chapter, even if characterized by a series of defects that prevent it from taking flight. The gameplay has undergone too many simplifications, the combat system experiences ups and downs and some passages are frustrating due to the absence of indications. In short, those who loved the prequel will also appreciate its direct sequel, as long as they turn a blind eye to these critical issues.

Ultimately, while respecting the work of the developers, we regret to tell you that yes: to date, Skull Island Rise of Kong is without any shadow of a doubt the worst game of 2023. The production by IguanaBee is a total disaster and there is no single element that is enjoyable. Playing this title is frustrating and the problems go far beyond the facets of the protagonist that have gone viral on social media. In every corner of the game there are unforgivable design errors and this is just one of the reasons why we advise you to stay away from the product. If instead you want healthy trash, then you know where to look for it.

Having arrived on our markets three years later than the country of the Land of the Rising Sun, from a technical point of view The Legend of Heroes: Trails into Reverie is not exactly a cutting-edge cross-gen title. The Nihon Falcom product, which as is well known has a fairly limited budget, however compensates for its technical shortcomings with a well-tested turn-based combat system and an unforgettable narrative plot, which in this case weaves together three different stories and involves a hundred about historical figures. While not equaling the epic nature of Trails of Cold Steel IV, the new proposal from NIS America confirms itself as a deep and exciting JRPG, as well as the right conclusion to the narrative arcs of Erebonia and Crossbell.

Hellboy: Web of Wyrd is an insufficient game in almost every way. Unfortunately, the love that the development team must have for the franchise is not reflected in an action roguelike, slow, cumbersome and terribly lacking in variety. There are few aspects to save: the characterization of the protagonist, the bosses at the end of the level, the impacts of Red's attacks. However, there are many stumbles that leave a bad taste in the mouth: a lackluster level design, a poorly diversified progression and a technical structure that makes the gameplay not very fun. A wasted opportunity to bring Mike Mignola's splendid works back to life. Sin.

After the excellent Monark, it seems that FuRyu is struggling a lot to hit the target. To demonstrate this, Aquria's latest effort has unfortunately proven to be yet another half-successful action RPG: a galvanizing combat system that pays attention to customization is counterbalanced in this case by a narrative structure devoid of character, a defeatist level design and, more generally, from a graphics sector that is a few generations behind. Add to the cocktail a limited longevity and the shortage of secondary content, and you will hardly be able to justify the outlay requested on day one by the publisher NIS America.

The new city builder is a perfect example of a sequel, with its complex systems and many improvements compared to the past. However, if on the one hand there is a renewed graphic sector to admire, on the other hand a vast range of features from the first chapter have been lost (for the moment). The game's cities are bigger, denser and more alive than ever, but achieving the same amount of content as its predecessor will take time.

Agatha Christie: Murder on the Orient Express modernizes a classic. However, the original additions have not always managed to convince us. From the new character, to an ending written almost entirely from scratch, Microids creates an experience that could convince, if it weren't for the extreme ease with which it approaches the case. You will have to take the adventure, therefore, for what it is: an accessible product but without flashes of brilliant design.

Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is the worthy successor of the first chapter and collects many of its positive aspects, introducing innovations that broaden Milestone's proposal in terms of game modes, tracks and vehicle fleet. Thanks to the addition of jumping in particular, the gameplay can count on a new level of depth which goes well with the variety of challenges available. The pleasant campaign offers dozens of hours of gameplay and the possibilities offered by the track editor could be able to increase the longevity of the product in a concrete way. In short, Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged is fun, varied and takes several steps forward compared to its predecessor: if you are a fan of these iconic toy cars, it shouldn't escape you.

Super Mario Bros Wonder has one precious merit: it's too much fun. Several times we found ourselves putting off finishing a game session, eager to see what surprise the next level would have in store for us. The innovations introduced in this new chapter are truly numerous, from the power-up system linked to the pins to the surreal effects generated by the Wonder Flowers. The exclusive Nintendo Switch focuses a lot on surprise, but does not forget to deploy an admirable level of attention to detail and a very solid technical sector. The regret remains for the absence of memorable boss fights and for a level of challenge which, in our opinion, could have been calibrated a little higher. Net of these considerations, Super Mario Bros Wonder still remains an excellent product, capable of taking Mario and his friends on new gaming paths.

The PS5 re-release of The Caligula Effect 2 has no real “raison d'etre”. Compared to the PlayStation 4 version which arrived in stores only two years ago, the port does not present any significant additions and both the technical and graphic sectors are almost unchanged. If you already own the previous edition, which these days is offered at much more reasonable prices, there is no valid reason why you should prefer the very lazy port offered to us by NIS America. Those who appreciated the original and have not yet ventured into Redo could save something by targeting the already more reasonable version marketed during 2021.

The experience offered by Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is cinematically all-encompassing: direction, music, interpretations (the dubbing in Italian is also convincing) are comparable to those of a blockbuster, and the revisiting of Spider-Man's imagery is superior even to the already excellent one of first chapter. We could discuss at length Kraven's charisma, the role of a powerful Venom, the intimate and perverse dimension of the symbiote but, clearly avoiding any spoiler, it is sufficient to reiterate how Insomniac has given shape to a high-school adventure, where playful soul and narrative move in symbiosis. There certainly remain some uncertainties inherited from the progenitor, yet the adjustments made to the formula and the greater quality of the secondary activities avoid the specter of the boring standardization of the open world, to give Marvel's Spider-Man 2 a lovably hybrid personality: that of a super blockbuster pop and, at the same time, auteur.

Despite having inherited some problems that the Gameverse has carried with it since its origins, Sword Art Online: Last Recollection is hands down the best SAO tie-in made so far. By minimizing downtime, implementing mechanics aimed at streamlining and speeding up the combat system, and paying more attention to optimization, the guys from Aquria have redeemed themselves and this time created a frenetic and fun action RPG. Since this explores in detail the customs and geography of the Dark Territory, which had found very little space in the War of Underworld anime, we recommend its recovery to fans of the franchise and more generally to lovers of the genre.

Sonic Superstars is exactly what longtime fans wanted from a modern iteration of the series. The new graphics are wonderful and the level design of the stages is well thought out. The main campaign immediately highlights the good replayability of the work thanks to the introduction of four different characters, each of which has unique abilities capable of modifying the approach to the levels and renewing the experience, while the multiplayer modes, which do not allow you to replicate with the same force the heady sprints performed in single player. To this we add some unrewarding bonus phases and some uncertainties regarding the effectiveness of the movement system during the boss fights. Yet Superstars remains a must-see for fans of the blue hedgehog, as well as a recommended purchase for fans of the reference genre.

Following the decadent drift of Tales of Symphonia Remastered, the restoration made to BATEN KAITOS I & II HD REMASTER did not completely convince us. The excellent work done on scenarios and polygonal models is in fact counterbalanced by superfluous playful features, unsatisfactory technical performances and only partial localization of the texts. Since these are two authentic pieces of history of the medium, we recommend their recovery to fans of the genre and to those who would like to delve into the past of Monolith Soft.

On the one hand it is nice to see how the gameplay offered by Company of Heroes Collection is still appreciable despite the many years that have passed, thanks to the substantial and varied campaigns within the production. On the other hand, however, to be fully convincing nowadays, the experience would have needed to be based on an engaging scenic system, capable of transmitting the power of the battles to the player. For purely age reasons, this power is rather reduced in Company of Heroes Collection.

Lords of the Fallen is therefore a rough gem, a mix of potentially interesting ideas which however struggles to express its full potential.

Total War: Pharaoh truly represents a grand return for the famous saga of real-time strategy games. The attention dedicated to a purer form of story is evident, in a distillation of mechanics that evoke the greatness of previous titles without neglecting the necessary improvements that a series with over 20 years of history requires. The abandonment of myths, legends and fantasy elements is an appreciable move that will make historical fans of the saga happy, allowing them to completely immerse themselves in historical settings with an authentic feeling. In Total War: Pharaoh, you can recognize numerous familiar elements now cemented in Total War lore, alongside new additions that enhance historical immersion and bring freshness to Creative Assembly's catalog. The surprising optimization of the game guarantees the stability necessary to make an experience free from hitches or slowdowns shine, capable of effectively immersing the player with respectable views.

Infinity Strash - Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai is not at all the tie-in that fans of the license have always wanted, but not a total disaster either. The contribution of Kai Graphics greatly benefited the visual rendering of the Game Studio Inc game, which however has serious structural defects and a narrative structure incapable of properly enhancing the characterization of Avan's disciples. Closer to the size of a musou than to that of a real action RPG, the combat system is wooden and lacking in terms of depth, even if we must admit that we appreciated the ingenious system represented by the Bonds Memories. The spin-off also does not adapt the entire story and we recommend its recovery to those who already know the original work and are very attached to it, perhaps when the title will be at a heavy discount.

Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless may not be the revolutionary chapter we were promised, but overall we are more than satisfied with the work done by the guys at Nippon Ichi Software, who after the various missteps made with the previous episode have rolled up your sleeves to get the series back on track. Some interventions seemed excessive and not always in focus, such as the reintroduction of the hospital, nevertheless the title works much better than its direct predecessor, also thanks to a more refined technical component, a main cast even crazier than usual and a handful of very innovative innovations. As long as you haven't developed an allergy to grinding, NIS's latest effort will satisfy your palates and give you hundreds of hours of entertainment.

Ultimately, Detective Pikachu - the Return can boast a plot that could entice the most die-hard fans of the Pokémon world but is also characterized by a somewhat sparse gameplay system, which fits into the market segment of investigative graphic adventures designed for a very young audience. The target audience is therefore quite clear but only occasionally manages to achieve the objective it has set itself.