Considering how long ROUTINE took to make and how this is Lunar Software’s first game, the overall game is an absolute marvel. It isn’t perfect, but I was enamored from beginning to end with its beautiful aesthetic, terrifying setpieces, and unnerving narrative. I can’t wait to see how Lunar Software progresses its craft with its next game.

When the credits finally rolled, I found myself wanting not just to play the game again, but with the desire to play through more entries in the franchise. I’ve officially fallen in love with the Metroid franchise, and regardless of what the future brings, whether it’s a new 2D game or a new entry in the Prime series, I will be there no matter what. Regardless of whether you’re a fan or on the fence about the new additions to the Prime formula, or if you’ve never played a Metroid game before, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is an absolute must-play.

If you are looking for your next survivors-like addiction that will eat up all your free time, it will unlikely be Reverie in the Moonlight, because there is not enough variety in the gameplay or level designs to draw you in the long term. It’s really fun to play in short sessions, and I could imagine booting this up occasionally for a 30-minute or so run, but that would be it. Because of this, I would only recommend this one to hardcore fans of the genre who like its distinctively cute aesthetics.

The Fable: Manga Build Roguelike is an interesting game. Its core gameplay is a fun mix of strategy, deckbuilding, puzzle, and roguelike game elements. Battle mode could be fleshed out more, but it’s still a good time even if it is short. The core fights are fun, but they get paired with uninteresting minigames and subpar rewards. As an adaptation, established fans will probably be happy, but I don’t see it making new ones. While I have some problems after all that, this is still a fun time that feels very satisfying at times. I would recommend giving The Fable: Manga Build Roguelike a shot, just for how it nails the feeling of reading a manga you like. You might not play it much longer after that, however.

Pirate Warriors 4 is a great One Piece game and an excellent Musou game. The PS5 version, albeit lacking new content, introduces new visual enhancements that make for the best way to play this adventure. Returning players may find less incentive to set sail on this journey again, but new One Piece fans beginning the voyage should be delighted with the extensive content available in the Legendary Edition.

Old School Rally is a great arcade-style racing game that has a pleasing PlayStation 1-era aesthetic and fun, addicting gameplay that's easy to pick up and play. The game pays homage to the sport of rally with several unlicensed cars that strongly resemble their real-life counterparts, so players aren't missing out on car variety. Although it's not innovative, Old School Rally is a joy to play for racing game fans.

Octopath Traveler 0 delivers the series’ most cohesive story yet, backed by its sharpest combat system and a surprisingly addictive town-building feature. By blending a focused narrative with a large, memorable cast and wrapping it all in gorgeous HD-2D visuals, it stands as both the strongest entry in the franchise and one of the best JRPGs in years.

If Activision and the numerous studios working on Call of Duty wish to make a game worth buying each year, the answer is innovation. It’s time to be bold and try something new. You have a problem as an annual franchise when players are constantly asking what’s new in this year’s entry. The market is not going anywhere—that much is clear with EA propelling its Battlefield franchise to bigger heights than ever. However, if Call of Duty cannot find a pathway to be creative, I fear the franchise will only continue to stagnate, becoming only a memory of what once was.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is not perfect, but as a huge fan of the Marvel universe, I was certainly not disappointed by the finished product. The use of fan-service and both obscure and iconic characters in the narrative is so well done, the gameplay mechanics are extremely fun to play around with, and the art style is a treat to look at. While there are problems with the game's difficulty spikes, limited replayability, short runtime, and lacking soundtrack, the strengths of the overall experience far outweigh its weaknesses.

In creating a game that won’t appeal to everyone, Sakurai has created an experience that never fails to be entertaining if you choose to challenge yourself with something beyond your comfort zone. Personally, I loved Kirby Air Riders and immensely respect the courage it took to make a game like this. While I’ll always wish that there was more content, as a completed game, Air Riders stands as a contender for my favorite Nintendo game released this year and my favorite of the major racing games that have launched recently.

Whether it’s beating up yakuza on the streets, managing a cabaret club, or helping Kamurocho and Sotenbori’s citizens out of a bind, Yakuza Kiwami 2 offers so much content that will keep you engaged. On Switch 2, the portability factor simply cannot be understated, now that we’ve gotten to a point where the limitations players faced with the original Switch aren’t as prevalent. If you’re a Nintendo fan wanting to get into the Yakuza series, there’s no better time to do it than now.

Retailing at just $14.99, there is more than enough here to make it worthwhile. Device 6 and Year Walk are easily worth the price of admission alone. Additionally, Simogo has included prototypes of earlier versions of its games, an audio drama, a short story collection, and a ton of concept art to peruse at your leisure. There is more than enough here for those interested in the history of Simogo.

Goodnight Universe is a fantastic take on the "interactive story" genre. It features a beautiful story, a great cast of characters, and a beautiful art style. Even if the gameplay is limited, the few segments that are present only add to the strength of the narrative, as you get to step into the world of a psychically-powered baby and all that entails. At such a small price and with a short runtime, Goodnight Universe is great if you're looking to immerse yourself in a science-fiction look at the wonder of childhood.

I encourage Bandai Namco and the development team to make even more optimizations over time. The Switch 2 version can be even better, even if that 60 FPS target doesn’t get hit in the future. The rollout of Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO DLC is also vital, and I hope Switch and Switch 2 users won’t be far behind the other consoles in terms of content. Everyone benefits from the hype of new DLC releasing at the same time on all platforms, after all.

Kingdoms of the Dump is a wonderful RPG held back by some glaring technical issues. Despite this, it still stands tall among other indie RPG throwbacks over the last decade, deserving the attention of anyone looking for a cozy game to envelop themselves in this Winter.

MotionRec is a game that lives and dies on its gameplay mechanics. The concept of being able to record and replay your movements never gets old, partly thanks to the introduction of new gimmicks you encounter throughout your journey. While the game lacks a recognizable soundtrack, memorable levels, and an intriguing narrative, the charming visual style and exciting gameplay more than make up for it. If you're looking for a charming and short puzzle platformer, then MotionRec is definitely worth your time.

The problem is that Titans of the Tide is pretty good if you’re only looking at it from a family-friendly perspective. If you’re looking at it compared to other 3D platformers on the market, though, it comes up lacking. As such, I would recommend this game to younger audiences and people who are diehard fans of the SpongeBob series, or if you’re someone looking for simple, mindless fun. If you’re looking for something more elaborate as a fan of The Cosmic Shake or other 3D platformers, though, you may be better off looking elsewhere for your Spongebob fix.

After I beat Dispatch, I felt a new void in my chest; I wanted to see more of these characters interact. There were countless moments where I felt invested in the story to such an extent that I was almost emotional. There are very few games I’ve played in my life that have pulled that off, and I am thrilled to say that Dispatch joins that list. The game doesn’t just revitalize the genre that Telltale innovated: it is easily one of my new favorite games released this year. In fact, when all is said and done, it may end up as one of my favorite games, period. I cannot wait to see what AdHoc does next, but I will be counting the days until we can see more of Z-Team.

Million Depth is another great example of the malleability of roguelike and roguelite games. Instead of following the same cliches as other titles in the genre, it chooses to follow the paths laid by visual novels and real-time strategy games to great success. The story is compelling thanks to a charming cast of characters and three different timelines to dive into, and the gameplay is addictive because of the abundance of unique mechanics to unravel. While there are some issues with story progression, if you're a fan of roguelike games, then Million Depth is a must-buy for you.

Atelier Ryza is an amazing trilogy within Gust’s Atelier series. Even still, this repackaging isn’t something you should rush to get unless you’re a fan or newcomer, as the new content, much like previous DX versions of Atelier games, doesn’t bring much that’s new to the table. There are just some nice extras that I wouldn’t consider integral to the overall experience.

Lumines Arise is a radiant revival that perfectly captures the rhythm and emotion the series is known for. The experience is simultaneously soothing and challenging, offering a unique game that both longtime fans and newcomers will appreciate. While the VR mode leaves a bit to be desired, Lumines Arise is an absolute joy that should be experienced without hesitation.

Natsume is trying to position Harvest Moon: Home Sweet Home Special Edition as a beginner-friendly farming simulator, which isn’t a bad idea on paper. However, Harvest Moon: Home Sweet Home Special Edition should have been bigger, bolder, and braver when trying to establish a presence in the genre. Instead, it ends up as an unpasteurized version of itself, which is hard to recommend when other juggernauts occupy the space.

For fans, this remaster is a welcome return. It respects the original without rewriting it, and gives players a reason to look back on it fondly. For newcomers, it offers a chance for those who may have missed Tales of Xillia at its initial launch to experience it in the best possible light. No surprises are waiting in its familiar paths, but perhaps that is the point. Tales of Xillia Remastered is less about discovery and more about remembering how the journey used to feel.

On the surface, PowerWash Simulator 2 isn’t a bad game. If you played a lot of PowerWash Simulator and you want more, then this is a must-buy for you. However, considering that the sequel is more of a re-do of the first game rather than a brand new experience, and seeing as more updates will be released down the line, you may be better off waiting till a discount or a major DLC is released.

I can’t recommend BALL x PIT enough. Regardless of whether you’re a fan of roguelite games or not, this is easily one of the best examples of everything that makes this genre great. Plus, with the $14.99 price point and heaping piles of content, you will be playing this game for a long, long time. Personally, I can’t wait to jump back into the game and take just one more dive into the pit.

Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage upgrades Virtua Fighter 5's single-player offers with the fun and rewarding World Stage mode and implements cross-play to keep players engaged in one large player pool. Despite some matchmaking issues, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O World Stage brings a compelling suite of online features, including Ranked matches, to keep players engaged with another avenue of fighting game content.

Painkiller reimagines the cult classic as a three-player co-op raid shooter, blending its breakneck gunplay with modern progression and a fresh take on heaven and hell’s eternal war. It doesn’t quite reach its full potential due to a short length, awkward mechanics, and limited content, but when the action hits, the promise of a great game is here.

Borderlands 4 is a fantastic return to form for the divisive franchise. The narrative is a great change of pace from previous entries, immediately separating itself with a far darker tone, higher stakes, and a great cast of both new and familiar characters. Furthermore, the gameplay represents a significant evolution from what one'd expect from the franchise, offering new customization options, features, and a balance of fun both solo and with a friend. While there are some issues, such as bugs and the game's monotonous traversal, I look forward to seeing how Gearbox continues to develop the franchise in the future.

Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake masterfully modernizes two timeless RPGs with the gorgeous HD-2D art style. Significant story changes, wonderful quality-of-life improvements, and flawless performance on Nintendo Switch 2 make this a must-play game for any fan of the genre. Without a doubt, this is the definitive way to experience the Erdrick Trilogy for both newcomers and longtime fans alike.

I feel torn about Bounty Star. It attempts to amalgamate two genres that, on paper, feel like they shouldn’t work, but it strangely does. The problem is that the execution is disappointing as it fails to make the farming elements integral to the experience. I would still recommend Bounty Star to mech-heads as the combat and controls are superb, but it’s hard to ignore what could have been.

I’m not sure if this will be the final nail in the coffin for the Double Dragon series, but I see no clear path forward for this franchise unless it drastically shakes things up in future titles. If it doesn’t, it is in danger of being completely left behind and forgotten like so many other games of its ilk.

Full Metal Schoolgirl is a chaotic and fun game that puts its gameplay, anime tropes, and aesthetic above other qualities, for better or worse. The story isn't spectacular or particularly memorable, but it does make fun of black companies and detrimental work culture, so that's a plus. If you're a fan of Lollipop Chainsaw, Earth Defense Force, and other action games of a similar vein, then Full Metal Schoolgirl can be a great time.

The Outer Worlds 2 is a fantastic modern RPG. The emphasis on player choice and customization, the great dialogue and characters, exceptional worldbuilding, and fun gameplay mechanics make it one of Obsidian's best games in years. However, that excitement is hindered by frustrating navigation mechanics, constant glitches, and characters that lack depth due to the absence of romances and natural speech options. While this is a great return to form for the genre, you may be better off waiting for all of the issues to be fixed in a post-launch update before buying.

Plants vs. Zombies: Replanted is a solid return for the series that mostly does right by the original. The core gameplay still holds up, the added modes are fun, but inconsistent visuals, missing dynamic music, and a few technical hiccups keep it from being excellent.

Once Upon a KATAMARI is a strong return to the series that every fan should experience. Everything that made the originals great is still here, along with a few new additions. Not all of them land perfectly, but none take away from the fun. While it’s on the shorter side, the game’s replayability and incredible soundtrack keep me coming back for more.

Persona 3 Reload finally hits the Nintendo Switch 2, but what should've been a celebration quickly turns into a major letdown. The frame pacing and constant stutters make every step through Tatsumi Port Island a chore, no matter how enjoyable the game itself can be. Maybe ATLUS will patch the frame rate issues in the future, but even then, the lack of support for 60 FPS might be enough to detract some players regardless.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is a triumphant return for the series, with Team Ninja and PlatinumGames uniting to deliver the most intense and fluid combat the franchise has ever seen. Its dual-protagonist story between Yakumo and Ryu is beautifully told, with jaw-dropping dynamic gameplay sequences for both characters. A stellar score ties it all together, making Ninja Gaiden 4 one of 2025's best games and firmly cementing the franchise's grand return in the modern era.

I loved the game’s characters, and the music and aesthetic of the game is excellent. Once more, Fantasy Maiden Wars – DREAM OF THE STRAY DREAMER – started out strong, and I was having a good time until second half wore out its welcome. The love and passion are evident, but there needs to be more polish and less tedium in combat and the overall game. I wanted to enjoy Fantasy Maiden Wars – DREAM OF THE STRAY DREAMER – more, despite the sigh of relief I let out when the credits rolled.

Keeper is an imaginative and beautiful bore of a game. I won’t say it’s bad, as Double Fine is too talented a studio to make a truly bad game, but the team misses the mark with Keeper. I find it to be a project that should have either been expanded on or reworked into something that takes advantage of its beautiful world and the creative minds behind it.

CARIMARA is a creepy horror mystery based on Normandy folklore. The atmosphere encapsulates an eerie yet beautiful tone, which is mesmerising to play. However, the experience is very short, and the central mystery falls flat because some of the answers are unsatisfying.

Ghost of Yōtei is a great evolution by the foundation that Sucker Punch built with Ghost of Tsushima. While the story feels like a retread of every other revenge story of the past few years, complete with the same frustrating pitfalls, the characters, new gameplay mechanics, and extra content make for a game that will hook you from beginning to end. I can't wait to see how Sucker Punch continues to expand the game and the franchise in new and exciting ways.

Hades II is a benchmark for the genre. The story, characters, writing, and art direction exceed the expectations set by the original Hades. Further, the new gameplay mechanics and the addition of a second area make for a game that can keep you occupied for dozens of hours without ever getting boring. While the ending is extremely disappointing, I can confidently recommend Hades II to everyone, regardless of whether you've played other entries in the genre or not.

Dreams of Another is destined to be a polarizing title, but those who gel with its bizarre storytelling and gameplay will find an experience like no other. Q-Games continues to carve its own niche in the gaming landscape, and fans of the studio's previous titles will find much to love here.

The $70 price tag (or $39.99 price individually) may be a deterrent to some, but it’s hard to argue the sheer brilliance this platformer duology still provides today. Adding this package to my collection was an unequivocal decision. Regardless of whether you’re a newcomer hoping to dive in for the first time or a veteran coming back for a playthrough before The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, I cannot recommend these two games enough. Even in 2025, these almost two-decade-old classics remain every bit as captivating as they were in 2007 and 2010.

Battlefield 6 is a return to form for the series with refined first-person shooter gunplay, fan-favorite multiplayer modes and weapons, tried-and-true progression systems, and a single-player campaign that reminds players what Battlefield is all about. Although visibility for closed weapon modes is less than desirable at launch, Battlefield 6 gives players many options for the game modes they want to play.

Little Nightmares III marks a bold shift for the series, with Supermassive Games taking over from Tarsier Studios and introducing co-op. While the game’s atmosphere, art direction, and world-building are hauntingly beautiful, its lack of true scares and overly simple puzzles hold it back. The co-op mechanics feel underutilized, and solo play suffers due to overly helpful AI. Despite its flaws, the game’s strong visuals and collectibles make it a worthwhile yet uneven experience for fans of the series.

King of Meat might not redefine the action-platformer genre, but it carves out its own quirky niche with style, laughter, and a surprising amount of heart beneath all that carnage. With strong co-op play, a creative dungeon editor, and a wicked sense of humor, Glowmade’s game delivers a fun, messy spectacle that’s perfect for those who don’t mind getting their hands (and screens) a little bloody.

Eclipsium is an intriguing horror game that relies on surreal and horror imagery to convey a story open to the player's interpretation. This abstract form of storytelling may not be for everyone, but if it piques your curiosity, it might be worth picking up.

I cannot recommend Silent Hill f enough for players. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series, a newcomer to the franchise, or looking for an entry in the horror game genre as a whole, this is the perfect stepping stone for you. With this, I can confidently say what I’ve been waiting ten years to declare: the Silent Hill franchise is finally back. I can’t wait to see where the series goes next.

Disgaea 7 Complete is a jam-packed version of Disgaea 7 with all previously released DLC, new story content, new features, and gameplay tweaks that make it the definitive edition of the strategy RPG. Although Disgaea 7 Complete doesn't revamp the game in a major way, it offers a lot of fun and engaging content with a easy pick-up-and-play combat system that will make the hours fly by before you know it. There are dozens of hours to be spent in Disgaea 7 Complete, all of which looks crisp and optimized for Nintendo Switch 2.

Digimon Story Time Stranger is the boldest entry in the franchise to date, delivering a thrilling narrative, stunning environments, and over 450 Digimon to collect. Its deep combat system, expansive quality-of-life improvements, and superb English voice acting elevate it alongside the best RPGs of the year. Minor issues aside, this is the definitive Digimon experience fans have been waiting for.

Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist & the White Guardian brings the beloved series back to its roots. With charming visuals, classic alchemy mechanics, and a cozy yet engaging story, it feels like a love letter to longtime fans—though its safe approach may not surprise everyone.

The first few hours of Slime Rancher 2 are a delightful experience, and it’s super relaxing to traverse the environments, capture slimes, and build your conservatory. It’s a great game to play if you’ve had a stressful day and you’re looking to unwind. However, after a while, you will likely find the slimes that you prefer using, discover the majority of the locations, and unlock the last remaining upgrades. In the end, it requires you to find your own meaning and discover a grand ambition that drives your pursuit. Just like the original, I couldn’t find it. But I definitely enjoyed my experience more than last time.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is one of the best kart racers on the market, and I’m sure I’ll be coming back to it often. It may not be a new Sonic Riders sequel, but it’s the next best thing. For those who are looking for a quality game to share with family and friends, I can’t recommend CrossWorlds enough.

If a game is willing to explore such complex and difficult topics, it needs to be prepared to tackle those topics head-on and say something. Instead, the game just sort of ends without any resolution or final thoughts, and leaves the player wondering what the whole point of this was. I think there are some people out there who will connect with Jenny’s story more than I did and be able to overlook the monotonous gameplay, but in the end, Consume Me just left me feeling numb to the experience as a whole.

Despite what PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC lacks, it’s still a really fun and solid game that’s well worth the $29.99 launch price. There’s a lot of fun content to play through that has the charm that late 90s and early 2000s platformers were known for. I just think PAC-MAN is meant for much more now, and Bandai Namco has the opportunity to strike and create a really memorable platformer with PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC as a foundation or example for the future. That’s after a potential PAC-MAN WORLD 3 remake, of course.

Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles is a heartfelt and commendable effort that brings forth one of Square Enix's most beloved games to modern platforms. Special attention to recreating the original experience has paid off, with fantastic quality-of-life features added alongside a refreshing UI. While I wish an orchestrated soundtrack were included in this release, this is easily the best way to experience Final Fantasy Tactics.

Trails in the Sky 1st Chapter is everything I hoped and dreamed it would be. It's the perfect introduction to Trails, with an outstanding cast, engaging gameplay, and a world impossible not to get invested in. The slow-burning narrative, while very enjoyable, can lead to monotonous sections of the game, but this is just a minor gripe considering the massive adventure at hand. New and old fans alike will fall in love with what is assuredly one of the best RPGs of the year.

Gloomy Eyes isn’t about innovation; it’s about immersion. Its strength lies in mood, not mechanics. The story of Gloomy and Nena unfolds like a gothic bedtime tale, carried by expressive narration and a striking audiovisual style. Gameplay remains simple, occasionally clunky due to camera issues, unclear level design, and technical blemishes, but it holds together just enough to support the narrative journey. This is a game for a very particular audience. If you love Tim Burton’s blend of macabre and romantic, if you enjoy dark fairy tales where atmosphere outweighs challenge, Gloomy Eyes is worth experiencing. It may not shine as brightly in gameplay, but in the dim light of its eternal night, it casts a charm all its own.

Super Robot Wars Y didn’t blow me away, but it was able to keep me interested. As an entry point into this almost two-decade-old series, I think this game does just enough to pass. If the next game in the series is able to up the quality and try to engage the player more than I think it would go a long way towards increasing my excitement to try it out. But as it is now, I would say that only the most hardcore of mecha fans will get the most enjoyment out of Super Robot Wars Y.

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle: Order of Giants is another Indiana Jones adventure, at a cost. While the new exploration and puzzles are fun to go through, plus the narrative and central mystery of the titular order of giants is deeply compelling, the overall package lacks any meaningful substance. The DLC lasts only four hours, there are no new shake-ups to combat, and once you complete the quest, you get nothing for your efforts. Considering the $20 price point, it's hard to justify purchasing the DLC unless you're truly desperate for more Indiana Jones action.

Maybe if you’re extremely desperate to play more Donkey Kong Bananza and really enjoy the roguelite genre, you may have some fun with DK Island & Emerald Rush. Otherwise, you’d probably be better off just replaying Donkey Kong Bananza or buying a true roguelite game, which costs $20 and features twice the content.

Cladun X3 is an action-adventure RPG that has a lot going for it. The systems are overwhelming at first but are quite fun when you get used to them. You can customize everything in the game from you character, to the weapons, to even the music. There is plenty to do from randomized dungeons to even online elements. But the last couple hours of the game are a chore that show how much the rest of the game needs some serious balance adjustments. I still had fun with the rest of it, but I don't see myself going near the last couple dungeons ever again.

To stand out from the crowd, Towa and the Guardians of the Sacred Tree take a few risks. Some pay off immensely, while others fall a bit flat. This is definitely one worth checking out if you're looking for a fast-paced combat system with a Shinto mythology-inspired story. However, if you're keen on experiencing the game in co-op, it's best to err on the side of caution.

No, I'm Not a Human is a psychological horror game that transforms paranoia into gameplay, where deciding who to trust becomes a matter of life and death. Its uncanny visuals, suffocating sound design, and ambiguous interactions are perfect for creating tension that any horror fan will love. While its save system and repetition can frustrate, the game’s paranoia lingers long after you stop playing.

Marisa of Liartop Mountain is an intriguing RPG that combines traditional elements of the genre, such as a leveling system and turn-based combat, with those of tabletop games. The game's intriguing story and premise of Reimu searching for Marisa keeps players engaged from chapter to chapter, and there's a strong sense of risk and freedom due to a dice-rolling mechanic and wealth of decisions to make. Despite the lack of voice acting for fan-favorite Touhou Project characters, the cozy narration and music make up for it.

Henry Halfhead is exactly the kind of indie project that deserves attention. It is imaginative, it is quirky, and it stands apart from the crowded puzzle genre. However, imagination alone cannot carry a full game. The game runs out of steam long before the credits roll. The repetition, the camera issues, and the lack of variety hold it back from being great. It is still worth playing if you enjoy quirky puzzle experiences. You will smile, laugh, and appreciate how creative this experience is. At the same time, though, if you’re like me, you will likely wish it had gone further. Half a head is enough to build a fun foundation, but not enough to deliver a lasting experience.

Lost Soul Aside is an action-adventure RPG that had a troubled development. That becomes obvious when you start playing. It's an upoptimized mess, with a story that actively annoyed me, and gameplay that got boring and repetitive. The game just takes from others in the genre that inspire it, with no idea how to make it work. The end result is a disappointing game I can't recommend to even the most curious of players.

Troleu will make you reconsider any life ambition of becoming a trolleybus conductor, as you deal with passengers in unconventional and comedic ways. But there's not enough replayability to keep your attention long-term.

Team Cherry not only delivers on its much-anticipated follow-up to Hollow Knight but exceeds all expectations by constructing one of the most complete and coherent video games I've played in years. Hollow Knight: Silksong is an absolute triumph.

LEGO Voyagers is a creative co-op adventure that is fun for all ages. The visuals and atmosphere are a real treat, and the gameplay has a lot to offer. A relatively short runtime leaves much to be desired, but this is still a good co-op game that is worth your time.

Giant Squid, make something different next time. I can only hope that the next game from this incredibly talented team will be something no one expects, as I do not think the team can top this formula after Sword of the Sea. This incredibly talented team has proven it can perfect a formula. Now show us what else you can do.

DRAGON BALL GEKISHIN SQUADRA is a fun and addictive free-to-play 4v4 team battle game that combines the rich history of Dragon Ball with MOBA elements. Players can take advantage of a respectable roster of characters from across the Dragon Ball universe to battle it out online, and there are also plenty of features that let friends play each other with a variety of options and features at their disposal. Despite some of the roster omissions at launch, there's a solid foundation for a game that could keep Dragon Ball fans entertained for years to come.

VARLET feels like a hollow, disappointing waste of time. While it has just a few redeeming qualities, such as the charming cast, this is not enough to save it. The narrative is boring, the combat system is dull and uninspired, and as a result, I honestly don’t think it’s worth spending your time on. I greatly appreciate the effort from FuRyu to make this a worldwide release, but I hope the company’s next game is of higher quality.

Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is the definitive way to experience one of the best games in a series known for its excellence. Some technical issues can mar the overall package, but there is no denying how much work has gone into this remake.

Donkey Kong Bananza is an immaculate return to 3D for DK. Bananza offers creativity seen in very few games in our industry have achieved. Each Layer is expertly crafted, Donkey Kong is endlessly fun to control, and the narrative is surprisingly great. While the general lack of difficulty, especially with bosses, leaves a bit to be desired, Donkey Kong Bananza is one of my favorite Nintendo games of the last decade. Let's just hope this marks a new era of consistent Donkey Kong games.

Cronos: The New Dawn is filled to the brim with potential, that ultimately falls short in how it executes all of its concepts. While there is a great story foundation and some interesting mechanics, the lackluster conclusion to the narrative, combined with irritating combat, frequent glitches, poor pacing of traversal, and repetitive gameplay scenarios make for a product that fails to capture the quality of other entries in the genre.

Everybody's Golf Hot Shots offers an addictive gameplay loop with its simple three-button press system, which allows players of all skill levels to pick up and play. However, its lackluster graphics and course designs leave a lot to be desired.

Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion is a worthy sequel to the original Daemon X Machina, as it improves on its predecessor in nearly every regard. From a turbulent and action-packed main story to a comprehensive weapon and gear system, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion ensures players feel the weight of their Arsenals. Although online content could be better, Daemon X Machina: Titanic Scion still offers streamlined ways to play with friends on top of the main dozens of hours of content that are already packed in.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World is some of the most fun you can have on the system—just be prepared to probably spend more than you’d like, whether you’re a newcomer or returning player.

With a captivating political plot, an excellent combat system, and beautiful HD-2D visuals, Triangle Strategy has all the hallmarks of being a hit with newcomers and veterans of the tactical RPG genre.

Shuten Order is a well-written game that incorporates gameplay elements from multiple genres, including visual novels and adventure games, across multiple routes. The narrative, led by Danganronpa creator and writer Kazutaka Kodaka, is engaging from the very start. Shuten Order's immersive art style and Japanese voice-overs also make it a game that will be hard to put down once you get started.

Space Adventure Cobra - The Awakening is a 2D action platformer and an adaptation of the classic series Cobra. The game excels at adapting the anime, all the cutscenes are beautiful and the music is superb too. Sadly that doesn't transfer over to the gameplay and you end up with a basic platformer. It's still an okay time, but one that made me want to check out the source material over going back to the game.

In the end, what remains with The Knightling is the impression of a lively, believable world that you enjoy exploring. The combination of dynamic movement, fun combat, and organic side quests makes The Knightling a title with great potential.

In the end, Grit & Valor – 1949 proves to be a good example of what you would want from a modern roguelike with a dieselpunk flair: fast-paced, challenging runs for in between, but enough depth for hours of gameplay. It’s a game that proves sometimes it’s enough to combine familiar mechanics with a clear aesthetic concept and a lot of playful subtlety to create something enjoyable.

Blue Archive stands out as a gacha that respects both time and intelligence. Blending mature storytelling with accessible tactical combat, while its resource systems keep F2P viable despite the steep pity. Region locks and limited variety hurt it, but in a very problematic genre, its player-first design makes it easy to recommend.

Gears of War makes its PlayStation debut with a new remaster of the first game in the series, Gears of War: Reloaded. I'll admit, there is something surreal about seeing Marcus Fenix and Cole Train chainsawing through locusts on a Sony console. However, once the novelty of playing a Gears game on PlayStation wears off, it quickly becomes apparent that you are playing a nearly two-decade-old game with very few visual updates or new upgrades. I was left wanting much more, especially considering this is the second remaster we've seen for Gears of War.

The Great Villainess: Strategy of Lily is a fun strategy game at its core, despite lacking some features or elements that really make it stand out. Either route you pick will be a fun time, but I did prefer one over the other. While combat was fun, it was rarely a challenge, and I wanted it to do more. That being said, The Great Villainess: Strategy of Lily is a solid strategy game that I believe both veterans and newcomers to the genre will enjoy.

Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar is much more than just a simple remaster of the original on Nintendo DS. The amount of work that went into this is more than I could've ever asked for, and I will forever die on the hill that this game can actually stand as its own title; not just as a shadow of its DS counterpart.

SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance looks to revive the long-dormant Shinobi series after an almost fifteen-year hiatus. Developer Lizardcube brings Joe Musashi back into the limelight in one of the most stunning-looking games of the year, which is sure to make longtime fans of the series happy. Although there are a few stumbles along the way and design choices that I wish had been ironed out more, SHINOBI: Art of Vengeance is a great game that will hopefully kickstart this series back to life and work as a building block for future titles to come.

I feel very similar about this release as I did with Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour—and that is not in a good way. With so many incredible games releasing on Switch 2 over the next few months, I think almost all players are better off saving the $20 to put toward another release. Maybe there is something to be said for those planning to squad up with three friends, but solo players can find better experiences out there. Not every game needs to have dozens of modes and content offerings, but Nintendo—of all developers—can do better than this.

Herdling is a game that takes its time and allows you to do the same. It is a quiet adventure, carried by atmosphere, empathy, and the joy of togetherness. Those who embark on it will experience an emotional journey that is both calming and touching. It is the kind of game that not only has an effect in the moment, but also lingers afterwards, like a gentle dream that remains in your memory even after you wake up.

OFF is a fantastic RPG from beginning to end. The narrative is fantastic and manages to weave a dark tone with brief moments of levity extremely well, thanks to the great worldbuilding and charming characters. Further, the gameplay is paced superbly with a combat loop that never gets old. I do wish some of the puzzles weren't as infrequent and the new content in the remaster was easier to find, but with the other new additions to the remaster, this is the best way to play this incredible cult classic game that paved the way for future indie RPGs.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Tactical Takedown pays homage to the early cartoon origins of the four brothers and crafts a mediocre game around them. The fast pace of the story and lack of thematic depth are disappointing, and a few long levels can make gameplay feel tedious at times. Fans of the series will find some enjoyment inside this world, but I recommend new fans steer away from this one.

9 Years of Shadows is a beatiful game that shines with its atmosphere, but it is held back by some lacking combat, shallow exploration, and tiring backtracking. Still, there is a solid experience here for those willing to look past the flaws.

Viewfinder is a brilliantly creative puzzle game that constantly forces you to think outside the box through level design that never fails to impress, and a gameplay loop that is fun from start to finish. However, the lackluster narrative, irritating dialogue, and major softlocking glitch prevent it from being truly great.

If you’re a fan of classic Final Fantasy games or classic turn-based RPGs, Bravely Default Flying Fairy HD Remaster is an easy recommendation. This is an excellent game with a fantastic soundtrack, a well-rounded cast, and an engaging combat system. Fans who already played the original game will fail to find any substantial new content to discover, but the world of Luxendarc has never looked better. While I wish that more effort had been put into bringing this remaster up to 2025 standards, it’s still Bravely Default on a modern platform—and it’s hard to complain about that.

Despite these challenges, the core experience remains strong, and the remaster successfully preserves the essence of the originals. However, addressing these issues would have elevated the collection from a solid nostalgia trip to a truly definitive edition.