Creature Keeper is in desperate need of an X-factor: something especially unique and hard-hitting that makes it intriguing and memorable. The game's story isn't offensive, it's just bland and unoriginal; its art style isn't terrible, but it's indistinguishable from so many other retro-influenced indies; its music is good, but nothing special; and its action-RPG combat works just fine, but doesn't leave you itching for more. If something about Creature Keeper's premise strongly appeals to you, then perhaps it's worth a few hours of your time—but don't expect any surprises.

Doom: The Dark Ages is action-packed and has really high highs, though the last quarter of the game doesn't quite maintain its momentum. Still, Dark Ages is a no-brainer for fans of the 2016 Doom game and Doom Eternal, as well as anyone who is in the mood for a high-quality and exciting first-person shooter experience.

At many points, La Quimera feels like playing a PS2-era shooter in an Unreal Engine 5 skin. But the lack of content, combined with a story that feels like an unofficial knock-off or direct-to-video sequel of a better FPS, make the game hard to recommend in its current state. As it stands, La Quimera is the equivalent of video game junk food — it might taste good and provide a bit of momentary satisfaction, but you'll ultimately be left feeling empty and hungry for more.

The word that immediately came to mind when first jumping into Return of the Savage Planet is ‘joyful.’ It's an out-of-pocket word to pick for a goofy indie space exploration title, but immediately after booting it up, everything from the voice acting and setting to gameplay and humor made me smile. There’s an undercurrent of love found on every screen, with the small team behind the game weaving their passion and playfulness into each pixel. A bigger team doesn’t necessarily mean a better product, and sometimes, all players need is a little chaos, an electric whip, a few fart jokes, and the promise of (hopefully) more adventures on the horizon.

As it stands, Days Gone Remastered is easily the best way to experience Bend Studio's open world zombie game. The new content, upgraded performance, and PS5 DualSense support make the game worth $10 upgrade, and those that have never played it before can rest assured that Days Gone Remastered is worth checking out.

Oblivion Remastered delivers a breathtaking open world full of engaging quests and characters and makes smart gameplay improvements to bring the 2006 classic to modern standards.

What makes Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 worthy of recognition isn't just how well everything works, but the fact that it all sticks with you. The characters, the music, the world design, the emotional throughline that runs underneath all the strategy and spectacle — none of it ever fades into the background. Clair Obscur is the kind of game that lingers after the credits roll, not because of how much it offers, but because of how much it gets right. It’s rare to see a game so mechanically confident and emotionally grounded, but that's exactly what Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is.

Overall, Once Upon a Puppet is a fine game. Its presentation is a standout feature, with its graphics, character animations, environments, and audio design all going to great lengths to make the most of the game's unique premise. But those elements aren't enough to elevate the overarching experience. The fine platforming, fine puzzles, and fine story are the strings that hold Once Upon a Puppet back from greatness, and some unfortunate technical issues can inject a layer of unnecessary frustration into an otherwise very satisfactory performance from a promising new indie studio.

For fans of soulsvania combat, Mandragora is a must-play for its astounding build variety alone, but that's thankfully not its only good quality. Addicting combat, a thoughtful narrative, and premium visuals make for a memorable game that uplifts the genre and sets an example to follow. Mandragora achieved what it set out to do—deliver a fun and engaging metroidvania—while landing just shy of its full potential in a few areas.

Single-player shortcomings aside, Fatal Fury: The City of the Wolves is a fantastic experience. It may lack the full-motion cutscenes, cosmetics, and flashy game modes of its contemporaries, but it more than makes up for this with its strong fundamentals. SNK has done a great job bringing this long-dormant franchise into the modern age, and one can only hope that subsequent sequels continue to hone City of the Wolves' unambiguous strengths.

When Steel Seed is at its best, it's a blast. Unfortunately, its best moments mostly end up emphasizing what could've been, making the weaker points that much more disappointing. It's not a bad game by any stretch; it's easy to get sucked into and, for the most part, is enjoyable to play. However, it doesn't do enough to stand out from the similar titles that came before it. As much fun as it can be at times, it falls short of being something truly memorable.

As someone who has always admired visual novels from the outskirts but has always been hesitant to dive into the genre, it's a testament to the greatness of The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy that I now find myself eager to go back and play through its creators' previous works. But that won't be possible until I invest dozens more hours into Hundred Line's story in an attempt to unlock and see all 100 endings the game has to offer, which feels practically essential given how much enjoyment there is to be found in both its narrative and its TRPG gameplay.

Gorn 2's story only takes a few hours to get through. After that, players are free to check out the Custom and Endless game modes, but that's more of the same shallow violence that the base game offers. VR enthusiasts are likely looking for something with more substance, but that's not to say there is no value to Gorn 2. The game can be fun in short bursts, and it works great as an easy way to show off virtual reality to someone who has never played a VR game before. Ultimately, those wanting more Gorn will get their money's worth with Gorn 2, while those who are looking for a deeper virtual reality experience will have to look elsewhere.

The more one plays Blue Prince, the more enthralling it becomes. The thrill of finding an item that opens the door to new possibilities in previously-searched rooms is hard to match, and unraveling the game's mysteries is an experience that all gamers should seek out. Blue Prince is the new king of puzzle games and is quite simply can't-miss.

There's nothing about INAYAH that is objectively bad, but the few very frustrating design decisions the game features are systemically baked into the title's gameplay to where even the good parts are undercut by them. At 15–20 hours to complete the game, INAYAH asks a lot of the player in terms of a time commitment, and while there are glimpses of brilliance in its execution, it's ultimately undone by the parts of the experience that work against it. Considering the sheer number of options players have for quality Metroidvanias, INAYAH's few annoyances hold it back from being worthy of players' time when there are so many similar titles to choose from that execute the formula better.

The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered is a great port that successfully brings the PlayStation classic to PC. It's a stellar-looking game with engaging gameplay and a brilliant story that will keep players engrossed from start to finish. PC gamers that enjoyed the original and can't wait to see what happens next shouldn't hesitate to pick it up.

South of Midnight excels in key areas, but its gameplay is so underwhelming that it's hard to truly appreciate everything it does well.

There are no redeeming qualities to be found in Dollhouse: Behind the Broken Mirror. The game is a complete disaster in all categories. It's broken, ugly, not scary, and worst of all, not fun to play. The story is laughably bad, and the gameplay is a poor imitation of the Resident Evil games. Horror fans should avoid Dollhouse: Behind the Broken Mirror at all costs.

Mother Machine has a lot of personality and some genuinely good ideas that just aren't implemented well. It would be great to see what Maschinen-Mensch can do with more time and resources, but as it stands, Mother Machine feels more like a demo or proof of concept than a fully fledged game.

Despite a bit of clunky translation and its rather brief runtime, Your House feels like it could be the beginning of something great. Whereas many puzzle-heavy games are quick to give extra clues when it’s clear that the player is struggling, this title asks more. It makes you slow down, and each time something finally clicks, the dopamine rush is more than worth the effort. If the team at Patrones & Escondites end up creating more incredibly satisfying mystery games in this same style, it would be hard not to buy them on launch day.

For all its minor shortcomings, like limited build diversity and underwhelming gear customization, AI Limit is still a game that knows what it wants to be and largely succeeds in being exactly that. It offers just enough challenge to satisfy Soulslike veterans while remaining accessible enough to bring new players into the fray. Most importantly, it carves out its own voice in a genre that is chock-full of imitators, and that's no small feat. For anyone looking for a Soulslike experience that balances narrative depth with mechanical experimentation, AI Limit is absolutely worth the journey.

First Berserker: Khazan isn't exactly overflowing with originality, but it offers an exciting, rewarding Soulslike experience with weighty combat and challenging bosses. Fans of the genre shouldn't hesitate to pick it up, but those turned off by the high difficulty in Soulslikes hoping that Easy mode would be their way in may want to try the demo first.

Its environmental storytelling and commitment to a haunting, folk-horror-inspired world set it apart from other post-apocalyptic titles. It's clear that Rebellion had a vision — one that, with a bit more refinement, could have resulted in something special. However, in its current state, Atomfall is a game that often feels like it's fighting against itself, offering players a world they may admire but struggle to fully enjoy in the end.

While some players may love some of the things Kaiserpunk does with the genre, many may find it is a mostly fine take on the concept. If the publisher's past games are anything to go by, there is a chance that the game will expand with more content to help build out the experience further. But, as of now, players will have to wait and see.

Even in early access, InZOI is a serious competitor to The Sims. It has the incredible potential to grow into something that one day even exceeds EA's long-running life sim franchise, with highly-detailed worlds and a lot of clever little details that give the game a certain "wow" factor that has been missing from its inspiration for some time. There is certainly still room for improvement, but it mostly lives up to the hype and, if InZOI's roadmap is any indication, the game is only going to get better from here.

All annual sports game franchises have those entries that are more about polishing what came before than trying bold new things, and MLB The Show 25 fits into that category. Most everything here is great and will give baseball fans their money's worth and then some, but those looking for something different may be disappointed. Still, the sheer amount of content MLB The Show 25 brings to the table is impressive, the core gameplay is a lot of fun, and it perfectly captures the essence of the MLB. MLB The Show 25 is more of the same, but when "the same" is this good, it's hard to complain.

Truthfully, Assassin's Creed Shadows does play it a bit safe and formulaic with its open world. But when the formula is as good as it is in this iteration of the Assassin's Creed franchise, it's hardly a knock against it. After spending about 40 hours traveling around Sengoku-era Japan as both a stealthy shinobi and a powerful samurai, there was still had plenty of untouched side content left to tackle and several endgame quests that demanded both of my heroes to be at levels far beyond their current power.

At the end of the day, Atelier Yumia is a strong entry in the beloved JRPG franchise. Despite a few growing pains, it adopts the cozy and niche franchise into something more digestible for a wider audience thanks to a well-executed open-world format, modern takes on iconic features, and an engaging, untraditional story.

Atelier Yumia is a strong entry in the beloved JRPG franchise. Despite a few growing pains, it adopts the cozy and niche franchise into something more digestible for a wider audience thanks to a well-executed open-world format, modern takes on iconic features, and an engaging, untraditional story.

Centum isn't going to make you jump out of your seat with gratifying gameplay, nor will it provide those "aha!" moments associated with the best puzzle or point-and-click adventure games. This makes it a game that certainly won't please everyone, and that's fine. But if it does resonate with you, it will hit like a truck. It's the type of game you dream about, not because it's a blast to play or because you've always wanted something like it, but because it worms its way into your DNA, scratching an itch you didn't know you had.

Sharing too much about Wanderstop’s narrative would be doing it a disservice, but it contained more surprises than expected in a game that seemed from the start to be on the more simplistic side. This isn't a title for everyone, but it's impossible not to recommend it to everyone. A dozen hours is a small price to pay for a little sanity and quiet, and even those who prefer more active and demanding titles can take something valuable from spending time in this little tea shop. Sometimes, grinding isn't the answer.

Rogue Pinatas: VRmageddon is occasionally entertaining, and it's likely more fun to play with friends, but solo gamers aren't likely to get much value out of it. The game does have a great deal of content to unlock through achievements, new characters, and permanent upgrades, but the core gameplay isn't nearly compelling enough to keep players hooked. The idea of a Vampire Survivors-inspired first-person roguelike certainly has potential, but Rogue Pinatas: VRmageddon falls well short of hitting the mark.

WWE 2K25 is the best WWE 2K game since the franchise made its return with WWE 2K22. The in-ring action is top-notch, MyGM is more fun than ever, and there is enough content here to keep WWE diehards busy for months on end. And that's not even taking into account the inevitable community creations that will supply players with an endless supply of new characters and content. The community creations will no doubt make WWE 2K25 an even stronger game, but even without them, it's a blast to play and has quickly become one of my favorite wrestling games ever.

As someone who has played thousands of video games, there are times when it feels like I've seen it all. But Split Fiction literally made me gasp because I was blown away by what I was seeing. The game surprises, delights, shocks, and endlessly entertains. Split Fiction is one of the best co-op games ever made and something that every gamer should experience. Josef Fares and his team at Hazelight are batting 100, with Split Fiction easily on the short-list for Game of the Year nominees come award season.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Early Days Collection is a funtime if you have an existing nostalgia for the series. Some features and mechanics could be better explained from game to game, but the developers may not have wanted to tamper with the original experience. Thankfully, menus and manuals create enough quality of life improvements to look past the sour spots among the included games.

While it may be a step down from its predecessor, Monster Hunter Wilds is still a great game with significant quality-of-life improvements, many of which shake up the formula for the better. But Capcom went a little too far in its effort to make the game more accessible to the masses, to the point where it risks alienating its most hardcore fans. Even so, what's here is a meaty experience that scratches that Monster Hunter itch, as long as you don't rely too much on the SOS flare support hunters.

Afterlove EP lacks meaningful gameplay, and its bugs can range from inconvenient to apocalyptic, so it says a lot that it's still worth recommending it to anyone who likes smaller, story-driven games. Make no mistake, the aforementioned issues do drag down the overall experience, but at the end of the day, Afterlove EP is more than the sum of its parts. Its music, charming characters, nuanced portrayal of grief, and beautiful manga-inspired art design are all worth the price of admission. If developer Pikselnesia can hammer out its more troubling bugs, then Afterlove EP has a chance to become an all-timer in the visual novel genre.

Ultimately, Lost Records: Bloom & Rage proves to be an uneven experience where the characters are more interesting than the plot. With a final twist that doesn't feel earned and fails to illuminate the game's greater mystery, it's hard to imagine players eagerly awaiting the second half of the story when it arrives on April 15. However, it's still possible that the remainder of the title could continue building its wonderful characters and make the juice worth the squeeze.

Its story may not have as much of an impact as franchise fans are used to, but Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is still an entertaining pirate adventure. I would love to see Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio explore the concept in a larger-scale game because Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii shows that there is a ton of potential for a Like a Dragon game that fully embraces the pirating life.

While Avowed's successes should not be overlooked, its shortcomings highlight the need for refinement later on. If nothing else, Obsidian has something worthwhile here that might actually reach its full potential if it were given a sequel. As it stands currently, however, it is a game that will likely resonate most with dedicated RPG fans who appreciate the weight of moral decision-making but may leave others feeling like their journey through the Living Lands was cut short just as it was beginning to hit its stride.

DEAD LETTER DEPT. is a relatively short game that a player could potentially spend less than 10 hours playing to complete all endings, depending on how quickly they discover how to get them. Yet, it delivers a potent experience that deserves a spot in the library of avid indie horror fans. Players who can withstand the frights the game generates will find an intriguing story that doesn't hold the player's hand and tell them what to do.

This game may not be for everyone, but for fans of the genre intrigued by the idea of a swashbuckling adventure, Rogue Waters offers a truly special and unique experience. It manages to pull inspirations without sacrificing its own identity, and its forgiving approach to combat means gamers of all skill levels will likely find it approachable.

The game does a great job of letting players logically put together clues. It hides them well at the center of the Roottree's web, but the farther out it goes, it may grate over time. The writing is worth absorbing as players go along and this feels like a real family that could have existed. While this story is certainly told in a way that makes it one of the more unique mystery games out there, it's the method in which players are asked to discover it that holds it back.

Mechanically, Trails Through Daybreak 2 is an incredibly satisfying role-playing experience that offers up some best-in-genre combat, impressive presentation, strong writing, and an exciting "whodunnit" mystery that will keep players guessing to the very end, including enough switching sides and shifting of allegiances to make one's head spin. If you weren't a fan of the Trails games before Trails Through Daybreak 2, it's a safe bet to assume you will be after completing it, and that alone makes it a game worth recommending.

Keep Driving could perhaps be improved through a couple of quality-of-life enhancements, like the ability to zoom out on the map or a better way to manage quests, but these shortcomings pale in comparison to its overwhelming charm and effective small-scale storytelling. It's a game worth recommending to anyone seeking a unique, satisfying, surprisingly replayable experience. It's a truly special game.

Eventually, Spider-Man 2's PC port will be fixed to the point that it will rival or arguably exceed the PS5 version, especially for those with more powerful rigs that can push the game to its graphical and performance limits. At launch, though, Spider-Man 2 on PC falls well short of expectations. The core gameplay is still a blast, and it's still one of the best superhero adventures in gaming, but the crashes are too problematic to ignore.

Sid Meier's Civilization 7 offers a fantastic experience for fans of the franchise and genre. Its turn-based gameplay loop is endlessly addicting, the civilizations and leaders are a joy to play around with, and its exploration of history is a sight to behold. It has a few flaws that need to be worked out, but just like almost every Sid Meier's Civilization game before it, those will likely be addressed with future patches and DLC content. So, for those veteran players who were eagerly anticipating the next entry or new players who may have never touched this franchise before, this may be exactly what they were looking for.

The Switch has no shortage of excellent Metroidvania titles, and Laika: Aged Through Blood is well worth the time of any Switch owner who is a fan of the genre. But just because Laika is an easy recommendation doesn't mean that it will be to everyone's tastes, and it certainly requires a lot from the player to get the most out of the experience. For those who don't mind a steep challenge and a unique approach to the classic elements of a Metroidvania, Laika: Aged Through Blood is a worthwhile experience that immediately earns its place as one of the great modern titles in the genre.

For those who appreciate RPGs that lean into simulation rather than spectacle, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a standout experience — one that is best approached with patience and an eagerness to embrace its historical authenticity and realism. It may not cater to every type of player, but for those willing to engage with its systems, it delivers one of the most satisfying and immersive role-playing experiences in recent memory. With its stunning visuals, refined gameplay mechanics, and a gripping continuation of Henry's journey, KCD2 cements itself as one of the most compelling RPGs of the year, regardless of what may come after it.

Big Helmet Heroes wears its inspirations on its sleeve and manages to reach the heights of many great beat 'em up adventures. It focuses on the fun of its combat systems and imaginative levels, providing a consistently satisfying experience without ever taking itself too seriously. Its major drawback comes from its limited co-op experience, which could have been one of its greatest strengths, making it a game more readily recommended for solo players than groups of friends. For gamers who love to unlock secrets and replay levels, there's a lot of content being offered, which could provide hours upon hours of enjoyment.

Sniper Elite: Resistance doesn't break new ground for the Sniper Elite franchise, nor does it break new ground for the stealth-action genre. But those weren't its intentions. What Sniper Elite: Resistance did intend to do was provide another fun, complete Sniper Elite experience that stays true to the aspects of the series fans have come to love, and it achieves exactly that.

While Rift of the NecroDancer misses a few beats, such as hiding some features behind menus, it still innovates and impresses in many ways. On its own, it's an enjoyable experience with a gameplay loop that's addicting even when it frustrates. Rift of the NecroDancer still knows how to stand out as a rhythm game for all the right reasons and is an easy recommendation for anyone wanting to take on its challenges.

The Stone of Madness isn’t a game for everyone, but it’s hard not to request that even the more discerning player give it a try. The game's somewhat bizarre and disturbing art style remains a high point, and even those unaccustomed to real-time tactical strategy titles may find the game’s story and setting compelling enough to stick with it until the end. Despite some finicky controls, it’s clear that the team behind the game poured their heart and soul into it, with each frame packed with an unbelievable amount of detail and care. The Stone of Madness has a way of transforming the player’s frustration into desperation, with every step closer to the truth providing a boost of adrenaline and a desire not to give up. The monastery is hiding something truly ghastly, and that mystery alone is worth delving into The Game Kitchen’s newest release.

Even with these problems and judged in a vacuum, Donkey Kong Country Returns HD is a masterpiece 2D platformer. Charging $60 for what is essentially a better-looking take on the 3DS version of a game that is 15 years old, however, won't sit right with everyone. Those who played Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D on 3DS may want to wait for a sale, but those who have never played the 3DS version or have never played DKCR at all will get a ton of value out of the game. If nothing else, it's nice to have all the Donkey Kong Country games on Switch, with the release of Donkey Kong Country Returns HD giving fans the chance to experience everything the DKC series has to offer on a single platform.

Orcs Must Die! Deathtrap is good, but in a very workmanlike sort of way. Although it's not the most surprising or inventive multiplayer game on the market, it upholds the strong balance of strategy and real-time gameplay that made the franchise so beloved in the first place. Fans of previous entries may be somewhat split on things like the roguelike progression and heavier emphasis on multiplayer at the cost of solo play, but the strengths of the series are still there, and in some ways, they're more finely tuned than ever.

Aspyr's Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles has some nice graphics and quality-of-life improvements, but it doesn't really add anything substantial that wasn't there in the Dreamcast version. And unfortunately, Jedi Power Battles is far from the best Star Wars game out there.

Super Roboy is a fine and simple Metroidvania for its target audience of genre fanatics, even though it might be hard to recommend for newcomers to the platformer sub-genre. Those who have already made their way through Hallownest or even made their way through a Mega Man game will easily find themselves at home during the game's short yet challenging run time. Super Roboy delivers on its promises in a way that's unique to itself, and that makes it worth exploring.

Tyrant's Realm is clearly a passion project made by people who were molded by both the PS1 era and FromSoftware's magnum opus. As mentioned at the start, I'm not a fan of Soulslike titles, but this one managed to win me over in record time. Affordable and stylish, it offers a fair amount of challenge without being overwhelming to newcomers, and its roguelite elements serve as carrots on a stick to make even the most discerning player prep for "just one more run."

Having played Tales of Symphonia and Tales of Vesperia, I went into Tales of Graces f Remastered feeling like I knew what to expect, given that the title is part of the same era of the franchise. But to say that my expectations were exceeded is an understatement. Tales of Graces f Remastered is an important first step in bringing a whole new audience to the Tales series as part of Bandai Namco's franchise initiative, and it's hard to think of a better entry to endear players to all that Tales has to offer.

A mostly bland story and a lack of additional playable characters are the major faults with Dynasty Warriors: Origins. It is the most polished, mechanically rewarding, and technically impressive game in the series so far, and an easy pickup for fans of the franchise, provided they're open to new ideas like the parry system and original, single lead. And if you've never been into Dynasty Warriors in the past, it's worth taking the leap with Dynasty Warriors: Origins—you might just learn what all the fuss is about.

Freedom Wars Remastered's extensive endgame will give players plenty of time to fight countless Abductors and really immerse themselves in the gameplay loop. One could argue that the "real" game begins once Freedom Wars Remastered's story is over, and as long as one enjoys these kinds of Monster Hunter-style games, they will get their money's worth and then some, especially if they dive into the online co-op and PvP offerings. It's rough around the edges in some areas, but Freedom Wars Remastered is a mostly engaging action-RPG with an addictive gameplay loop that makes it hard to stop playing.

I think if Rogue Incursion trimmed down its back-half, had a proper ending, and drastically reduced the xenomorph encounters so that they were more meaningful, it would be easier to recommend. But while I mostly enjoyed the first half of the game, the second half was a headache-inducing chore. Alien: Rogue Incursion successfully captures the Alien movie franchise atmosphere and there is a novelty to exploring this horrifying sci-fi universe in the virtual reality space, but its problems are way too big to ignore.

Like the anime it's based on, Fairy Tail 2 is a case of too much style and not enough substance. Despite its popularity, Fairy Tail has seemingly never been able to escape a reputation for being too formulaic, adhering to the style and qualities of Shonen anime just a bit too close for comfort. Similarly, Fairy Tail 2 is a game that ticks all the right boxes for a brisk and low-stakes RPG, but it lacks the depth that other similar games might offer. It's a title that players' enjoyment of will vary depending on their appreciation of the Fairy Tail manga and anime, with its snappy combat and eye-catching visuals the definitive silver lining of what's otherwise a fairly shallow experience.

Marvel Rivals feels like the first serious contender to Overwatch's crown; it's a game I can see being a part of my multiplayer rotation indefinitely. And the thing is, Marvel Rivals at launch is just the tip of the iceberg. There are near-endless possibilities for new roster and map additions in the years ahead. Some of the leaked Marvel Rivals characters have me excited about the game's future, and I can't wait to see how it evolves.

If you bounced off the originals, or if you have reliable access to them and don't mind their dated graphics, then Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered might not be worth the cost of admission. But if you've never delved into the world of Nosgoth, are looking for a great story, and don't mind putting up with some archaic mechanics, it's an easy buy.

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind is a small, but well-rounded package that Power Rangers fans should adore, and unfamiliar friends can enjoy alongside them. Rita’s Rewind would have been a hit in late 90s arcades, and its competence and love for the source material means it should find an audience today alongside the Once & Always special it sprang from. Even if its competitors do what it does better, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Rita's Rewind is still a rollicking good time that no one will regret experiencing.

Regardless of these issues, the fact that Path of Exile 2 is already so polished has my hopes very high for the future. Even in its current early access state, it's undoubtedly one of the best ARPGs I've ever played, due to the unprecedented player power it offers, its detailed and immersive visuals, its satisfyingly challenging combat, its rewarding exploration and boss fights, and its thoroughly extensive and unbridled endgame. It's hard not to compare Path of Exile 2 to other, perhaps more prominent ARPGs like Diablo 4, but I would be remiss not to suggest that Path of Exile 2 has more than a fighting chance against the ARPG big shots currently out there. [Early Access Review]

Indiana Jones and the Great Circle has elements that match right up with any of Spielberg’s movies. Its puzzles are a genuine highlight, its story fits the type of adventure that only Indy would go on, and it’s bolstered by some standout performances from its cast. Even though the combat and stealth are middle-of-the-road, the entire presentation is strong enough that fans will have a great time donning the hat and whip.

It's not perfect, but that doesn't stop Behemoth from being one of the best VR games to date. It's an action-packed adventure that should greatly appeal to fans of games like The Legend of Zelda and God of War, with a healthy balance of gritty combat, satisfying puzzles, and immersive exploration. It's the latest must-have VR experience and one of the best virtual reality games to release all year.

It might still need some wrinkles ironed out in terms of its balance and difficulty, but otherwise, Ravenswatch is a strong action roguelike and a worthwhile entry into the increasingly crowded genre.

Overall, Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is truly something special. It's not perfect, but it manages to succeed in some major areas that many other games fall short in. Its open world is one of the best I've been in for quite some time, but its morally gray choice-driven narrative is also something worth writing home about, with the immense amount of player power it offers. Stalker 2's combat is challenging and exciting, and there is almost never a dull moment as players explore the Zone. So long as players can look past some of its blemishes that are arguably overshadowed by its best features, they'll find a memorable and worthwhile experience in Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl.

VED is far from a perfect game, but it does have a few redeeming qualities. The hand-drawn art style is wonderful to look at, showcasing how strong this game could be. Additionally, the combat is often thrilling, because if players are not careful, then things can quickly fall apart. However, the story and the dialogue hold the experience back considerably. And ultimately, it leads to a pretty lackluster experience overall.

As a remake, Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D honors the spirit of the original game in a way that preserves it for future audiences. For better or worse, this means retaining the grindy nature of an old-school JRPG and some occasionally obtuse mechanics. But throughout the experience, it's hard to shake the undeniable feeling of nostalgia that permeates every moment of gameplay. Playing Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D is the equivalent of JRPG comfort food, and if that's any indication of what players can expect from the upcoming remakes of Dragon Quest 1 and 2, I can't wait to pull up a seat at the table again.

LEGO Horizon Adventures does some things better than the other LEGO games, and it does some things worse. It has better graphics, polish, and combat than any other LEGO game I've played, but it suffers a lot from uninspired level design and general dullness. It's so mind-numbingly easy in what I assume is an attempt to appeal to children, but I imagine most kids will be bored by the game long before the credits roll. LEGO Horizon Adventures is technically a well-made game, but it is not a fun one to play.

Overall, The Rise of the Golden Idol is a massive achievement in storytelling and gameplay, especially for a point-and-click puzzle game. Despite its steep challenge and the potential for players to encounter a game-halting bug, The Rise of the Golden Idol is worth a try, even for those who might not consider themselves a fan of the genre. Its gameplay is slow and intentional, but filling out those Event pages, completing every objective, and witnessing the whole story unfold is highly satisfying — something even some of the most fast-paced action games fail to accomplish.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate doesn't offer much room for the player to get frustrated or, quite frankly, challenged, as a lot of its difficulty is transparently manufactured and tied to linear progression systems that give the game its structure and longevity. At times, this makes it more enjoyable than even the most well-crafted roguelikes, but this is comparable to the difference between fast food and fine dining: one gives you quick and easy satisfaction, but the other offers an experience you'll remember for months or even years. It's up to the consumer to decide what they are more in the mood for.

The body-swapping mechanic of Slitterhead and being able to control these wildly different characters in an Asian city full of creepy monsters sounds appealing, but unfortunately, this horror/action does not bring the spooks at all and, frankly, isn't enjoyable to play. If you're someone who likes a somewhat janky brawler that feels like it came out of the PS2/360 era, there might be something of value here, but otherwise, it's hard to recommend this one.

Assessed in a vacuum, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is an undeniable improvement over the original game with better graphics and it makes great use of the PS5's unique features. It doesn't do enough new for those that have already played through Horizon Zero Dawn to make a return trip, but it's the perfect jumping on point for newcomers and is a worthwhile upgrade for those that have yet to finish their playthroughs.

The Zombies, multiplayer, and campaign are all presented with impressive graphics that ensure Call of Duty remains one of the best-looking games on the market. Breathtaking lighting, highly-detailed maps, smooth as butter frame rate, and next-level audio design come together expertly, solidifying Black Ops 6 as the best Call of Duty game in years. Black Ops 6's post-launch support should mean that the game only gets better with time, but what's available at launch is already fantastic and will keep franchise fans entertained for months on end.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard certainly closes a chapter for Dragon Age as a whole. But one can’t help but look more brightly at the future, one where Bioware has seemingly broke a curse it has been shackled with for years. As labyrinthine as a task it would have seemed, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is a promise to fans that BioWare is one of the best storytellers in the medium, one capable of bombastic gameplay and enthralling narratives that linger for years.

Overall, [REDACTED] is a strong addition to the roguelike genre. The mechanics are fun, the game's unique features help spruce things up considerably, and the core gameplay loop is extremely satisfying. However, it does lack some variety, and the actual setting lacks a unique flair. While that does not ruin the experience, it may hold it back for some. But if players are looking for another title to spend hours on, this game may be for them.

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered lacks the impact of Suda51 and Mikami’s Killer7, the mechanical depth of Mikami's RE4 and Vanquish, and the uncompromised vision of Kurayami Dance. However, getting lost in what SotD isn't also means losing sight of what it is. Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered is a delightful B-movie romp that can be knocked off in a weekend, and there's still value in that. Diving into hordes of enemies with Garcia's upgraded abilities and assorted takedowns can be very fun, even if extra details like headshots feel like they could be tightened up. If it sparks some good word-of-mouth, perhaps today’s leaner shooter landscape will do Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered some good.

Batman: Arkham Shadow is a legitimately great Arkham game, one that mostly lives up to the high bar set by the Rocksteady trilogy. A few patches will go a long way in making Arkham Shadow even better, but even now, it's an easy recommendation for Quest 3 and 3S owners.

I can see myself returning to Fear the Spotlight in the future. It's a great game to get into the Halloween spirit, with an effectively creepy atmosphere that doesn't feel overbearing. Hardcore survival-horror fans will likely find it all a little too easy, but it's a great way to introduce newcomers to the genre and is consistently entertaining from start to finish. Fear the Spotlight ensures that Blumhouse's new video game initiative gets off on the right foot and gives horror fans a game that will likely become a Halloween favorite in the years to come.

Even in a post-Astro Bot world, Sonic X Shadow Generations serves as an epic reminder of how untouchable both Sonic and Sega can be when they're firing on all cylinders, and its treasure trove of content and top-notch presentation make it an easy recommendation, regardless of it not being a blemish-free experience.

Even though RetroRealms Arcade can be a fun action platformer at times and has amusing references for horror buffs, its pricing scheme makes it impossible to recommend.

Even though RetroRealms Arcade can be a fun action platformer at times and has amusing references for horror buffs, its pricing scheme makes it impossible to recommend.

I truly think that everyone should play Neva at some point; it's hard to imagine someone not feeling profound emotion from this trim but unforgettable release, which now sits comfortably on the short list of video games that have brought tears to my eyes. If it has captured your attention in any way, then it's safe to say that it's worth your time. It's certainly worth far more than the $20 Devolver Digital and Nomada Studios are asking for it.

Soundtrack changes, the cheaper price, and PS5's backward compatibility make it easy to recommend the original Until Dawn over the remake, but the remake is still a high-quality game. It looks incredible, the Until Dawn story is still a thrilling time, and there is some worthwhile new content to seek out. However, $59.99 is a steep asking price for what's on offer. PC-only gamers may want to consider taking the plunge, but those on PlayStation might be better served sticking with the original and looking up the new ending.

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero isn't a perfect sequel to Budokai Tenkaichi 3, but it has successfully recaptured its spirit. Effort is visible even in the areas where Sparking Zero falls short, and concentrating on the core gameplay, presentation, and progression has paid dividends. Custom Battle and a decent online suite help this game find its own voice, both compared to its PS2 forebears and its more focused modern Dragon Ball peers. Ultimately, Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero does the late Akira Toriyama and his collaborators’ work justice, and that should help it find its audience.

The greatest RPGs are experiences that stick with the player long after the credits roll and warrant repeat playthroughs in the future, and even at 80-100 hours, Metaphor is a game I can easily see myself returning to time and again as one of my new favorite role-playing games.

The new game retains the core feeling of the original while expanding on it in brilliant and surprising ways. Bloober Team has elevated its game with the Silent Hill 2 remake and delivered what is quite simply one of the best Silent Hill games to date. I sincerely hope Bloober Team gets to keep working with Konami, and we get remakes of the other Silent Hill games with the same level of care that Silent Hill 2 has received.

At times, I was blown away by Starfield: Shattered Space's beautifully rendered new areas, but other times, my immersion was ruined by the annoying progression-killing quest bugs and weird graphical oddities. The DLC is uneven to say the least, and that's something Starfield fans should take into consideration when deciding if they should spend $30 on the expansion...$30 for a four-hour main quest sounds a bit steep, but the new weapons and side quests may make it worth the investment for diehard Starfield fans that simply want more - once the bugs are ironed out, anyway. Future updates will likely make it a lot easier to recommend Shattered Space, but for now, fans may want to hold off until its more egregious bugs and glitches are addressed.

While it does offer some strategy thrills, all of this really holds it back from being another genre kingpin. With DLC and future updates, it may have a chance to iron out its weaker aspects. But, outside a few unique twists, it feels like it is missing something to make it truly worth the price of admission.

Wild Bastards is a very vibrant, very ambitious game that goes out of its way to add new gameplay mechanics and playable characters. But while that effort is certainly commendable, there's no denying that many of those elements just don't hit as hard as they should. There's still plenty of room for fans to have a good time with Wild Bastards, but that time won't be free of moments of confusion, frustration, and a little boredom.

God of War Ragnarok will give PC gamers their money's worth and then some. It's a lengthy adventure and one of Kratos' greatest outings to date. Still, there are some pacing issues and the PSN account requirement is a disappointment. It's unlikely that Sony is going to let-up on the latter, so PC gamers that want to enjoy the company's games without buying a PS5 should keep that in mind.

Funko Fusion fumbles its interesting concept with bottom-of-the-barrel gameplay, and it's hard to see how co-op could make it any more tolerable. That being said, the game's latest balance update has made it at least a little better, and so perhaps future updates will make a bigger difference than expected.

Those looking for a deep challenge won't find it in The Plucky Squire, but any gamer looking for something fun and charming will be entertained by the story of Jot and his friends. Despite its lack of difficulty, it's easy to think that most users will want to finish the story once they've started. Its creativity and level designs go a long way in turning something mediocre into something artfully enjoyable. Be it for the children who remember their parents reading stories to them or for the parents who remember reading to their kids, both will find a bounty of nostalgic adventure in The Plucky Squire.