As expected, SAROS stands out as a worthy spiritual successor to Returnal, and even more so. Far from resting on its laurels, Housemarque has successfully built upon the solid foundation of its previous title to deliver an epic adventure, enhanced by new features that make it accessible to a wider audience. While more accessible, SAROS remains a challenging yet exhilarating experience that delivers incredible thrills. This makes it a new must-have in the PS5 catalog, which once again boasts one of its best exclusives thanks to the Finnish studio.

Tomodachi Life: A Dream Life is sure to be one of this spring’s must-have releases. By reviving this unique franchise on the Nintendo Switch, Big N reminds us just how powerful and unmatched the Mii characters’ comedic appeal is. Moreover, Nintendo offers us a true respite of lighthearted fun that, like Animal Crossing: New Horizons in its day, allows us to escape a particularly anxiety-inducing reality. While the game’s distinct identity means it won’t appeal to everyone, it will be the perfect choice for anyone looking to treat themselves to short, stress-free gaming sessions full of surprises.

Besides its delightful art style, brilliantly blending inspirations from Cuphead, early Mickey Mouse cartoons, and 1930s film noir, Mouse PI For Hire is from a gameplay standpoint a classic boomer shooter, but very effective and enjoyable to play. Even if its "detective" aspect is largely inconsequential, we generally enjoyed following this frenetic adventure as Troy Baker... Jack Pepper, despite a somewhat tedious final section that leaves a slightly underripe aftertaste for an overall appetizing cheese. Perhaps the upcoming DLC ​​will be the final clue to wrap up the investigation in style?

After years of anticipation and numerous previews, we can finally confirm it: Pragmata is indeed the surprise we’ve been waiting for. With refreshing gameplay and a pair of highly endearing protagonists, Capcom’s new franchise plunges us into the heart of a fabulous world that we enjoy roaming from start to finish, despite a few minor flaws here and there. And while these flaws may prevent the game from having as significant impact as we originally hoped for, it remains a resounding success for the studio, which continues to deliver new, original games that are a breath of fresh air.

A year after its release, Tiny Bookshop is still a breath of fresh air in the gaming world. The proposition is modest but satisfying in many ways. Neoludic proves that you don’t need big effects or ultra-complex mechanics to be effective. Even though several aspects of the gameplay could stand to be a tad more refined to captivate us even further, the game is truly what you might call a gem to be savored in small doses—one you’ll happily return to whenever you need a peaceful escape.

As refreshing and innovative as ever, Super Mario Bros. Wonder makes a triumphant return on Nintendo Switch 2. The brilliant recipe from 2023 remains intact, enhanced by visual improvements and new bonus content. Players will delight in exploring Bellabel Park, its mini-games, and its hidden secrets. Even though this brand-new area can only be experienced in multiplayer mode, the single-player adventure remains just as flawless and now boasts additional characters to help out the Flower Kingdom. This new version is aimed primarily at those who have never played the original or at fans who love multiplayer experiences.

In the same vein as recent PS5 exclusive ports, Nixxes delivers an excellent PC version of Death Stranding 2. Graphically and technically almost flawless, aside from a few minor glitches, enjoyable to play with both keyboard/mouse and controllers, especially the DualSense, and with some welcome additions via a free update, this is clearly the definitive version of Kojima Productions' latest BB. A port of this quality makes it all the more regrettable that Sony has apparently decided to stop adapting other single-player PS5 exclusives for PC in the future. This one, therefore, has a very unique flavour and, whether we like it or not, represents a beautiful swan song for this chapter of PlayStation history, which closes on the Beach.

Despite its rather delicate first hours, its shortcomings, and the frustrations that the experience can bring, Crimson Desert is undeniably a unique adventure in the video game landscape. Rarely has a game so convincingly blended epic combat, exploration open to experimentation, and life simulation within such a massive yet coherent and addictive medieval fantasy open world. Pearl Abyss's title isn't for everyone and is likely to be divisive, but it will captivate the most dedicated players for hundreds of hours of pure enjoyment as they lose themselves in its breathtaking abundance. It however needs a little polish to truly shine and take its rightful place among the greatest open-world sandbox games of all time.

With this new port, Capcom reminds us just how pivotal Resident Evil 7 is in its now thirty-year-old saga. The claustrophobic setting of a dysfunctional family and the switch to a first-person perspective create an oppressive atmosphere that is just as compelling on Nintendo Switch 2. Furthermore, the hybrid hardware delivers impressive technical performance that perfectly preserves the original experience, with masterful pacing and meticulous level design. All in all, this is a nightmarish new version that we're delighted to dive back into.

Monster Hunter Stories 3 breaks free from the constraints of a simple spin-off to finally create its own mythology. Fans will say they didn't need this third installment to appreciate the series, but the fact remains that this is the most successful, generous, and mature entry of them all. A true entry point for both fans and newcomers, it's interesting in many ways, from its skillful and polished gameplay to its blend of exploration and monster collecting. Even its deeply ecological message becomes a reason to offer incredibly addictive gameplay mechanics. It's hard not to enjoy it, even if you wince at certain difficulty spikes, a technical aspect that doesn't always do justice to the art direction, and some entirely unnecessary side quests. Nevertheless, Monster Hunter Stories 3 remains utterly monstrous.

Like a fine wine, Stardew Valley improves with age. Even after 10 years, the title remains an essential reference in cozy farm games. Beneath its unpretentious retro indie game exterior, it actually hides an incredible amount of generosity. Supported by a community that is more active than ever today, its creator, Eric Barone, keeps expanding the range of possibilities with free extra content in each update. But above all, it works because the world it offers is as solid as it is immersive. The residents of Pelican Town are all characters worth getting to know, while the sense of freedom given to the player is reinforced by constant discoveries. Whether it's your first or tenth adventure, it's always worth returning to the valley for another visit.

Resident Evil 9 Requiem is certainly one of the best games in the franchise, and for a very simple reason : it is the ultimate mutation of a formula that has evolved over many years of research, experimentation, successes, and failures. It is the synthesis of an entire series, from its main titles to its many offshoots spread across nearly 30 years of existence. Two experiences in one that come together to form a whole that will keep us on the edge of our seats from start to finish, despite some pacing issues and a few missteps along the way, though these are quickly offset by well-executed fan service and brilliant execution.

As a current-gen upgrade rather than a remaster/remake, this PS5/Xbox Series version of Kingdom Come: Deliverance does its job well. It effectively utilizes the capabilities of the latest consoles to display the 2018 title smoothly in up to 4K resolution, complete with high-definition textures, even if these don't entirely mask the fact that it's an eight-year-old game. Thanks to its impeccable performance, this is clearly the best console iteration of Warhorse Studios' first title, despite the controls being generally less intuitive with a gamepad than with the PC keyboard/mouse combo.

REANIMAL follows directly in the footsteps of the studio's previous titles. Far from trying to reinvent the wheel, Tarsier simply does what it does best: immersing us in a dark and unsettling experience, driven by an uncompromising minimalism. Of course, this doesn't prevent the creators of Little Nightmares from refining their formula, with welcome additions and adjustments here and there. But beware of the feeling of déjà vu that is slowly but surely starting to creep in…

Nioh 3 is the culmination of a decade spent exploring different approaches across several games in the same franchise, as well as attempts to create new ones. One might have thought that the transition to an open world would have caused it to lose its identity, but this is not the case. Team Ninja delivers a solid and very demanding action game here, and sometimes even somewhat punishing. Our salvation lies in the gameplay, which is unparalleled in its richness and depth. Two play styles, a vast array of weapons, and a hundred skills allow us to create a personalized gameplay experience that suits our individual preferences. Ultimately, everything culminates in a frenetic dance of blades with what is arguably the most dynamic combat system ever seen in a souls-like game. The legacy of Ninja Gaiden and FromSoftware games is ever-present, but so is the classic open-world formula. Fortunately, the execution is impeccable and engaging enough to completely immerse us in its world. We'll only be pulled out of this immersion by getting lost in the overwhelming amount of loot and an avalanche of statistics that will only appeal to theorycrafting enthusiasts.

On paper, The Game Bakers' latest game might be simplistically labeled a “climbing simulator,” but in practice, it is far more than that. Beyond offering a challenge to both Aava and the player, CAIRN delivers an epic adventure rarely seen in video games. It is a work capable of inspiring wonder, frustration, anger, and moments of calm. Yet, what lingers most is the extraordinary sense of elation when we finally overcome our repeated failures. CAIRN is yet another reminder of the talent flourishing in French studios, and of the pride we can justifiably take in them.

If Eternal Strands somehow slipped under your radar amidst a truly insane previous year for video games, it deserves your full attention if you love magic, have a creative mind, and enjoy the epic feel of facing titanic monsters that Monster Hunter or Shadow of the Colossus wouldn't disown. This first game from a new studio composed of BioWare and Ubisoft veterans certainly offers a very solid foundation for a franchise as original as it is convincing. As it stands, however, one might regret a slight lack of risk-taking, which translates into an arsenal of weapons and spells, as well as a bestiary that, unfortunately, becomes repetitive rather quickly. We therefore hope that this successful first attempt has achieved well-deserved success, so that its creators can push the boundaries even further in a potential sequel.

MIO Memories in Orbit is undoubtedly a wonderful surprise and an invitation to feast your eyes and ears. It's a game of rare artistic intensity that exudes genuine poetry throughout. You'll enjoy losing yourself in it for dozens of hours and exploring the sometimes sprawling depths of its inspired environments. Beneath its more than charming visuals lies a highly effective Metroidvania that borrows good ideas from various sources and applies them flawlessly with great precision. The execution is excellent, but the gameplay lacks personality, which truly contrasts with everything else. While you'll discover a profoundly unique world, you'll also have the feeling of having played it before. But it's hard to fault it for that, especially if you're a fan of the genre, as the journey is well worth experiencing.

Between its update and its Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, Animal Crossing New Horizons has been significantly polished up. Nintendo has finally taken fan feedback into account to greatly improve the gaming experience. For those who have played the game before 2026, all the quality-of-life improvements will be a real relief. Additionally, the new modes further enrich the range of activities already available at launch. This has significantly extended the game's length, making it worth restarting or even starting a new game today. A true timeless classic. It has once again established itself as a must-have title that is more enjoyable than ever on the new Big N console.

Graphically, the Nintendo Switch 2 version of FF7 Remake sits closer to the PS5 than the PS4 Pro, despite having a lower resolution on paper, and it commands respect. With a few minor concessions, the game runs smoothly in almost every situation and never compromises in portable mode. Everything feels carefully crafted to let players enjoy Midgar both on the go and on the big screen. Too bad it's locked at 30 fps. Whether Square Enix can maintain this level of performance with FF7 Rebirth and its more demanding open world remains to be seen. For now, though, the Switch 2 version stands out as one of the most enjoyable and versatile ways to (re)experience the legend of this iconic JRPG.

The talented French indie creators at DotEmu and Guard Crush have gifted us once again with Absolum, an excellent game that skillfully blends old-school and modern gameplay. In this instance, we're treated to a truly magical and ingenious blend of beat 'em up and roguelite, all set in a vibrant world that delights the eyes and ears thanks to its stunning art direction and soundtrack. A true gem of late 2025, unfortunately somewhat lost in a sea of ​​other excellent games released throughout the year, due in part to a rather timid marketing campaign and a fairly steep difficulty curve that might deter newcomers.

The World Ends With You Solo Remix combines two wonderful qualities. Firstly, the original is a near-spotless success. Secondly, this is a quality port, one that has been reworked deeply to blend well with the devices it's on, even enhancing some aspects in the process.

Thanks to Dispatch, AdHoc and the Telltale veterans who comprise it brought back the episodic narrative game format that made this legendary studio famous with flying colors. The story of Robert and the Z-Team is a constant delight, driven by incredibly endearing characters, phenomenal voice acting, and stunning art direction, all within a fast-paced narrative entirely dictated by our choices. The game also shines with its incredibly addictive and intuitive management mechanics, which perfectly put us in the shoes of a team leader of rookies who will eventually become true superheroes, though this aspect loses some of its appeal once the initial surprise of the first playthrough wears off. This clever mix is, in any case, the indie gem we anticipated, and we now cannot wait to see the Z-Team for a potential second season ! We are nevertheless following the upcoming projects of this promising young studio with great interest.

Kirby Air Riders is like a strawberry sorbet: sweet, refreshing, but not exactly essential. Yet, in the quieter stretch of the year, it might just catch you off guard. It’s a simple game, but one that offers a surprising amount of depth, both in its content and gameplay. And it does justice to the Nintendo Switch 2, delivering smooth performance and solid graphics that make it a worthy addition to the system.

Arc Raiders is undoubtedly a must-have in the genre. Extremely enjoyable and addictive, the game grabs you by the gut and allows any player to find themselves in it. Its only drawback? The frustration, inherent to the genre, if you get eliminated before you have time to escape. Beyond that and a few menus that are a bit difficult to navigate, Arc Raiders is an experience that would be a real shame to miss. The immersion is incredible, driven by a stunning sound design and a surprising AI that serves not only the gameplay but also the narrative. A rich universe, top-notch art direction and technical prowess, an accessible yet unforgiving game, incredible sensations… the list goes on. Arc Raiders is certainly one of the best multiplayer surprises of 2025 with a very promising future, all for around forty euros.

With Anno 117: Pax Romana, Ubisoft Mainz proves it is possible to evolve a beloved formula without losing its identity. The move to Antiquity is more than a new setting. It reshapes building, trade, resource hierarchy, cultural balance and even city planning thanks to diagonal roads and more uneven terrain. It is not as disruptive as Anno 1800 was at the time, but it improves several essential systems. Flexible needs make each run smoother. The Roman and Celtic coexistence gives regions a stronger personality. The huge research tree adds long-term strategic depth. The visual direction is stunning and brings a rare elegance to the whole experience. Some parts still need work, such as land battles or certain UI details, but these limits never overshadow the core experience. Anno 117 remains a rich and captivating city-builder. It is more than a simple return to the past. It stands as a solid and promising new chapter for one of the strongest management series of the last decades.

With Jurassic World Evolution 3, Frontier Developments delivers the most complete and polished entry in the series so far. The studio didn’t reinvent the formula but refined it in almost every way. Natural breeding, modular building, improved animations, and global park management finally bring the depth and cohesion the previous games lacked. It’s not perfect, micromanagement is still light, AI can be clumsy, and systems like finances or faction contracts could use more bite. But despite these flaws, the game remains a joy to play. You can easily lose hours building, tweaking, and simply admiring the prehistoric world you’ve brought back to life.

Ninja Gaiden 4 definitely breathes new life into the iconic franchise, thanks in large part to a dream partnership with action game masters Platinum Games. The result is a game with truly frantic, exhilarating gameplay that's also very intuitive and offers just the right amount of challenge to appeal to both veterans and newcomers. However, the combat can at times be a little chaotic, the visuals are not groundbreaking, and the somewhat clumsy recycling of assets to justify Ryu Hayabusa's return is a bit of a letdown. Nevertheless, we can then reunite with the legendary hero in all his glory thanks to generous endgame content, after completing a relatively short but undeniably intense main story. Pure adrenaline for fans of challenges and ninjas, and one of the best pure action games of a year 2025 already brimming with excellent titles.