At its $40 price point, this is a great value for anyone wanting to dip a toe into the skateboard game genre. If you’re an old hand, it won’t disappoint. If you’re brand new, get ready to fall in love. With the addition of the skate park editor, this is truly an infinite skating machine.

Endless Space 2 offers hundreds of ways to play, an interesting player-driven narrative experience, and above all the addictive turn-based gameplay we've grown to love.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is a fantastic game that will appeal to a very specific slice of the strategy gamer fanbase. If there is even a chance that you are in that slice, then I suggest you check it out.

Miles Morales’ biggest problem is by far its length which will turn some people off. But honestly, there’s room for more short form experiences, even as major console release titles. Miles Morales doesn’t waste any time with padding and instead keeps pushing high quality Spider-Man gameplay at you, which in my opinion is a strength, and not a weakness.

If Slay the Spire was the roguelike deck-builder genre’s promising first impression, Monster Train feels like the genre really hitting its stride. In some regards, Monster Train feels like a full-on sequel to Slay the Spire, but it also changes things up enough to stand firm all on its own.

Mortal Kombat X is a feature-packed experience that sets the bar high for content in fighters this gen. While it doesn't eclipse the previous Mortal Kombat's amount of content, it does surpass all of its other competitors.

Ni No Kuni II could have been genre-defining, but really, really good is just going to have to do instead. The way that the beautiful visuals meld together with Joe Hisaishi’s breathtaking score is nothing short of remarkable and it all combines together for something that feels genuinely earnest and charming. While far from perfect, Ni No Kuni II is an easy recommendation for fans of JRPGs both old and new.

The abundance of options available at your fingertips is very cool, and the ability to share couldn't be easier, save for direct posting to social networks – but we'll make do with what we have.

If you're playing solo, then The Jackbox Party Pack 2 isn't likely to be your speed. However, if you're looking for a game that will suit your fellow partygoers, or want to stream a good, lively game session with your fellow deviants, then it's an essential purchase – especially when you begin to get hooked on Quiplash and Earwax. It'll certainly put a twist on your holidays.

Total War: Warhammer 2 manages to iron out almost all the rough edges from its predecessor while throwing in enough quality new content to keep things fresh and challenging. The result is a journey into the Warhammer fantasy universe that’s both engaging and infinitely fun to play.

While the multiplayer aspects of Injustice 2 are lacking, it still manages to be an incredibly strong fighting game title that is worth checking out, even if you've never picked up a DC comic in your life.

Legends of Runeterra is a fantastic digital card game that is still struggling with some flaws in its mobile implementation. However, if you have a PC and a space for a new collectible card game in your life, then this is one of the best you can play.

Ratchet & Clank is a must-play for PS4-owning action game fans, and long-time fans of the franchise will fall in love with it all over again.

Fallout 4 VR is a splendid example of what every fan of VR hopes the industry is working towards. This is a AAA title that offers hundreds of hours of immersive, atmospheric gameplay that manages to nail the feel and aesthetic of VR without feeling like a cheap imitation of the main game. There are still a few flaws, and we would love to see Bethesda roll out mods and DLC from the main game, but in the meantime, it’s an experience that’s worth it for fans of VR and Fallout alike.

M2 has once again produced a commendable presentation of a classic for the 3DS with 3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2. It continues to be a fun game after all these years (and way better than whatever Sega's been churning out with the blue guy the last couple of years), and the 3D conversion is simply fantastic. Vintage Sega fans – and new players as well – shouldn't miss this gem.

Overall, Guitar Hero Live is a huge jump forward for the music game genre while at the same time abandoning some of the things we loved about music games. If you can get past some of the things that are gone and embrace the new ideas, you'll have a great time playing fantasy rock star.

Anyone who hasn’t played the original should pick this up just to experience Link’s Awakening in its most graphically impressive form, and anyone who fondly remembers the original should pick this up too just to take a wonderful trip down memory lane.

Better than the first game in every way, Dishonored 2 is a creative stealth/action adventure packed with replay value.

Madden NFL 17 turned a corner. While it hasn't overhauled its entire system to the point that it looks like a game-changer, the little aspects make the follow-up more polished. Kudos to EA Sports to stepping up its game.

Squadrons is a Star Wars experience I’ve been looking for since the ‘90s. A two-decade quest has come to an end. I’d happily pay for a bit more single player content, and I hope the devs have some tricks up their sleeves to expand the multiplayer. I’d love a PvE horde mode of some kind.

Overall, NBA 2K20 is still the best basketball game on the planet and that doesn’t look to be changing any time soon. While some fans may be upset about microtransactions, it’s not a requirement to play the game. At this point, however, it seems like as long as NBA 2K is the best game out there, microtransactions will be here to stay.

Tides feels like a complete, if strangely assembled, game. You'll find surprising depth in some areas while other aspects aren't developed quite as much as it feels like they should be, but the total package is a huge success. Commit to learning the game's vocabulary and don't let yourself get overwhelmed by lore at the game's beginning, and you'll be richly rewarded.

The Witcher 3 is a huge game sure to satisfy fans of the genre and the series, and does a great job of welcoming new players by just being damn fun to play. While the combat falls short of Shadow of Mordor and games like Skyrim and Dragon Age: Inquisition both do many individual things better than this title, The Witcher 3 undoubtedly deserves a place beside the great action RPGs of the modern era.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided isn't a revolutionary experience, but it is a high-quality one in just about every way. If you're a fan of the genre or the series you'll love it, and it's worth a look even for those new to this kind of game (though prepare to wade through hip-deep lore as you go).

With only one episode left Tales From The Borderlands has proved itself a worthwhile experience. If you haven’t picked this up yet, do it now.

While there are some very minor cracks in the foundation, Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 still proves itself to be an excellent continuation of not only the Black Ops series but also of the entire Call of Duty IP. If you're looking for a fun, challenging, and comprehensive new-gen shooter experience, Black Ops 3 should definitely tide you over for the next several months (possibly years) at least.

SOMA isn't perfect, but it sets a certain standard for what horror games can achieve with a bit of inspiration. Though it isn't heavy on the scares, the bits of horror spread throughout work well, and the story will leave a lasting, hard-hitting impression.

Final Fantasy XV is a tremendous return to the franchise and includes a lot things we love about the series. I experienced a few missteps here and there, but it didn’t deter from an overall great experience.

Neon Abyss is one of the best roguelite action games to come along in recent memory. Given how many great roguelites we’ve seen the past few years, that’s definitely a tall order. But thanks to its smooth gameplay and compelling upgrade systems, there’s no denying just how entertaining and exhilarating Neon Abyss is.

Hitman 2 is the perfect game for fans of the franchise that are looking for an excuse to dive back in. It doesn’t do much to improve on the original formula, but the original formula is still fun and exciting enough to carry the game when combined with IO Interactives attention to detail, level design, and NPC AI. The whole game feels like you’re wandering around living, breathing environments that are built to challenge your skills and creativity as an assassin, but that manages to do so in a way that feels fun and addicting even after multiple runs through the same level.

The first great game of 2017. It takes what made the original a cult classic and builds upon that foundation in meaningful ways across all areas of the experience. Few games will make your heart race and palms sweat with excitement from moment-to-moment like Kat’s physics-defying journey through the skies.

This is the first solo Tetris game in a long time that truly brings something new to the formula. If you are a Tetris fan, then you owe it to yourself to give Tetris Effect a chance.

It’s unfortunate that Gears 5 continues the trend of ‘games that were clearly shipped before they were ready’ since its diverse offering of different gameplay experiences is virtually unmatched by any other shooter game or franchise. Once The Coalition has ironed out the campaign performance issues and multiplayer network problems, this latest Gears of War game has a very bright future and is a must-play for any fans of the shooter genre no matter their individual tastes.

Valkyria Chronicles 4 does the franchise justice, possibly more than any other Valkyria Chronicles title. If you are looking for a good new strategy game, this should be on your radar.

If you can accept the fact that some Drivatars are going to be weird, and some cars will take a heaping amount of time to unlock, Forza Motorsport 6 is an awesome ride that you'll return to often. In fact, it's likely to keep you busy until the next Forza ride – potentially 7 – makes its arrival.

The Evil Within 2 improves on the sequel in every way, while retaining the core of what made the first one special. Better gameplay, better story, and more options make this an all around excellent survival horror experience.

With a rushed third act and a few frustrating quirks here and there, Tyranny falls just short of reaching the legendary heights of the games that inspired it. Obsidian has, however, once again delivered on their pedigree with an engrossing and inventive story of betrayal and tyrannical rule. This game is a must-play for fans of isometric narrative roleplaying games.

Luckslinger is an engaging 2D platformer with a lot of brilliant moments, wacky luck-based randomness, and a memorable hip hop Western soundtrack. You'll likely get angry a lot while playing, but you'll also feel good about yourself every time you reach the end of a level.

Going through the campaign once by myself was fun. But doing it again on heroic or legendary with friends is even better. Plus Warzone is addictive.

PES 2016 lives up to the hype and is a wonderful tribute to 20 years of hard work from Konami and PES Productions.

Tales From the Borderlands may be the best series from Telltale to date. It blends humor, action, and drama in a way that few games, of any kind, have been able to do.

Frostpunk is one of the best sim games to come out in decades. If you want a more bleak and depressing twist on the age old genre of city management, this is your game.

Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus is a powerful game that tells a relevant story. It doesn't innovate much in terms of gameplay, but everything else about the game is executed at an impressively high level.

Even without multiplayer, the game shines in nearly every aspect, and holds up the tradition of B.J. Blazkowicz's Nazi-killing provocatively well. If you loved the first game, this eight-hour adventure is just what you need.

It's great to see developers continue to pour their best effort into twin-stick shooters, even if the concept seems dated compared to other genres. Assault Android Cactus is a quality entry in the genre, filled with personality, excitement and creativity. The amount of characters available is impressive; the co-op factor is insane but fun; and the gameplay doesn't stop when it comes to challenging your high-scoring skills.

Celeste is one of the most entertaining 2D platformers in recent years. It'll defeat you from time to time, but its inviting controls, level design, and presentation will keep you coming back until you persevere and overcome every challenge thrown your way.

Tropico 6 is not the hardest of hardcore simulation games, but for folks looking for something more casual, it’s a blast. It’s entertaining and addictive, and its minor interface flaws only stand out because the rest of the game is so polished and enjoyable.

Death end re:Quest is not for everyone. Many people will be made uncomfortable by its moe aesthetic. However, if you have similar experience with games such as Danganronpa, Doki Doki Literature Club, or anime such as Magical Girl Site, Made in Abyss, or No Game No Life, then you will not only be able to tolerate Death end re;Quests aesthetic, you might even enjoy it, and that leaves you free to experience the incredibly ambitious and innovative game underneath.

Due to the fact that Pony Island only asks a minor investment in terms of both time and price point ($5), but even more so because it's just so much fun, it falls under "must-play" territory and provides a vastly different experience from other modern-day indies.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider has all the polish and extraordinary visuals you’d expect from the third entry in a huge franchise, but it’s also held back by uninspired writing and an emphasis on archaic video game conventions like boring gunplay.

Dead Cells takes the best gameplay elements from Metroidvania and rogue-lite games and combines them into something that sinks its hooks into you and won't let go.

Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia is a fantastic game, despite its shortcomings. Its fresh take on Fire Emblem mechanics and compelling narrative more than make up for its questionable DLC policies and missing online content. With rumor flying around that the 3DS is nearing the end of its lifespan, ending on Fire Emblem Echoes would be a more than fitting swan song for the powerful little handheld. I, for one, would welcome “Echoes” versions of other classic FE titles, such as The Blazing Blade.

Rock Band Rivals has once again sparked my love for Rock Band, and the thrill of the chase.

Like we said, we can’t call Super Mario Maker 2 a bad game, not by a long shot. It’s just that it could be better. Heck, if a few usability issues were fixed and a few more items were added to maker mode, we would be giving this game a perfect 10/10. As it stands, there’s room for improvement and hopefully we will see that improvement in future DLC patches.

Deckstorm may not ease players into its gameplay as smoothly as other CCG’s like Hearthstone, but if you can get over the early-game hurdles, you’ll find one of the most accessible and expansive mobile CCG experiences I have ever played.

The Crew 2 transforms America into a high speed sandbox with unmatched variety. Terrorize New York’s West Side Highway? Check. Buzz the Pentagon in a prop plane? Check. Leave tread marks in New Mexico desert? Check. There’s a lot to do here, and it feels great to do it, particularly for casual racing fans, while sim fans who want to just chill out and go fast in their home city will also enjoy themselves. The Crew 2’s minor flaws could easily be ironed out with a few quality of life patches.

Dragon Quest XI is a gorgeous throwback to 8 and 16-bit JRPGs, with a lengthy story and engaging cast of characters.

Battletoads is a highly entertaining beat ‘em up. It’s a throwback to the series’ roots while still managing to reinvent that series. The action is fast and flows smoothly, and the whole thing is just filled with slick style. This is a revival done right.

Asteroid Base's Lovers In a Dangerous Spacetime turned out to be worth the wait, perfectly blending elements from space shooters with a bit of strategy and throwing in some entertaining co-op as well. There are times it can be overwhelming – especially if you're going at it single player – but it's still an adventure you can't help but fall in love with.

At 15 dollars and a little bit of elbow grease to get it working, Jimmy and the Pulsating Mass is one of the most enjoyable and affordable RPG experiences in recent memory.

Sonic Mania is a wonderful blend of classic Sonic and new ideas, and should serve as an example of the great things that can happen when game companies embrace fan creators. There's no reason Sonic Mania shouldn't be followed by multiple sequels that continue its remixing magic.

Galak-Z: The Dimensional delivered on every front for me. While it may seem challenging for some, it doesn't disappoint with its space action and strategy, and the presentation is right on the money when it comes to emulating your favorite anime.

Lone Echo is a smart VR experience that handles movement exceptionally well. It’s one of the most polished and engaging VR games currently available.

While there are some things I could've done without in Syndicate – like the occasionally frustrating "kidnap" mission and some weird ghost-like glitches – it's still one of the best entries in the series in some time.

Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout is worth playing for multiple reasons. It’s fast-paced, silly, and fun. It’s a unique take on the battle royale formula. It’s great in short bursts or longer play sessions. This is just a really entertaining online multiplayer game, and it’s some of the most fun you’ll have with a game this summer.

Resolutiion may wear its influences on its sleeve, but even then it’s managed to carve out a unique identity of its own. You’ll see a little bit of Hyper Light Drifter, Dark Souls, and Metroid here, but the overall package is a wholly original sci-fi experiece that’s great for folks looking to get lost in a bleak futuristic world.

It's nice to see that Harmonix can still keep the beat going, even after the commercial success of Rock Band 4. Amplitude may not be as big a game as that is, but it's still a terrific experience, whether you go it alone or bring some friends into the fray. The soundtrack, while more "indie"-based, is a blast, and the gameplay delivers all the goodness we've come to expect from the brand.

Mortal Kombat 11 is one half perfect fighting game, one half exploitative mobile game. It’s worth playing despite its flaws, but it easily stands as an example of how even the best games can be ruined by questionable monetization practices.

Metroid: Samus Returns is a must-purchase for any long-time Metroid fan and a perfect example of the genre. It bodes well for Metroid’s future and makes me excited for Samus’s next big adventure.

In spite of some technical setbacks and repetitive tasks, Just Cause 3 delivers the kind of stress-relieving destruction to get you through the doldrums. It's easily the best looking game of the series thus far, and the awesome gameplay will have you continue to think up ways to bring down enemies. You're due a holiday vacation, and Rico's trip will certainly fulfill the need.

Some may wonder why it's so high-priced, or why certain aspects of the game weren't as polished as the rest of it. But God of War III Remastered shows that Sony Santa Monica is more than ready for PS4 development, and that means we're in for something cool whenever Kratos decides to cover new territory. In the meantime, give his god-pummeling journey a revisit.

Super Time Force Ultra mixes shmup action and rewind mechanics to create a bold, action-packed experience that's also heavy on fun, referential, and witty writing.

While this is a different direction for the Far Cry series, Far Cry Primal is an excellent entry into the franchise. While it might not be the best introduction to the franchise, it’s certainly one the fans of Far Cry should definitely check out and those interested in the series will find something incredibly unique, action-packed, and a lot of fun.

If you’ve enjoyed playing deck-building card games and roguelikes in the past, you owe it to yourself to give Slay the Spire a try. It might take a bit to fully wrap your head around the game’s concept, but once it click, it’s addicting. Now’s also a great time to get in on the action, since Slay the Spire will only continue to grow in the future.

With Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, From Software has proven once again that has no qualms about pushing its own boundaries. The studio has made a name for itself by creating incredibly difficult games, but the breadth of innovation spread across the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and now Sekiro shows how good the studio is at defying fan expectations. Sekiro isn’t perfect, but like the various Soulsborne games before it, From’s latest shows the wisdom in pushing players beyond their pre-conceived limits.

West of Dead is a refreshing take on multiple genres. It’s a great cover-based twin-stick shooter. It’s a different kind of roguelite. And it’s just a solid all-around action game that’s a joy to play. It’s highly challenging, and it rewards smart play, so what you ultimately get is a satisfying experience that’s fun and invites you to put the time into learning its intricacies.

If you’re the sort of gamer who usually looks down their nose at the Call of Duty franchise, Black Ops 4 might just be the game that changes your opinion ever so slightly. Old-school purists can find their competitive multiplayer fix, and with the revamped Zombies and new Blackout mode, there’s no denying that Treyarch’s latest stands well out from the pack.

Pokémon Sun and Moon is full of welcome innovations that make the Pokémon formula feel new and fresh. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Pokémon’s 20th anniversary.

Pokémon Sun and Moon is full of welcome innovations that make the Pokémon formula feel new and fresh. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Pokémon’s 20th anniversary.

Splatoon 2 manages to deliver an addictive and engaging online multiplayer experience with plenty of ways to keep you busy and layers of satisfying combat to keep you coming back. The lack of social features is a significant flaw, but it isn't a fatal one, and hopefully we'll see that aspect of the game improved in the near future.

It isn't perfect, but StarCraft II: Legacy of the Void allows the series to end on a high note, offering a comprehensive experience which should make every type of RTS player happy.

Watch Dogs: Legion is an interesting game with an innovative system and a compelling story. It’s not a blockbuster hit and it probably won’t make the running for GOTY this year, but its experimental systems and socially resonant plot make it worth checking out.

With Doom, it’s clear that id Software set out to make a shooter game which puts fun above all else, and in that regard, the studio hit the nail right on the head. Some old-school purists may scoff at a Doom game with progression and unlocks and other modern shooter elements, but if their refusal to let go of the past keeps them from playing Doom, they’ll only be robbing themselves of the chance to play what is hands down one of the most solid shooter experiences of 2016 so far.

Overwatch could very well come to dominate the hero shooter genre. There's plenty of room for improvement around the edges, but the core is strong enough to make this another huge hit for Blizzard.

If you want to dive deep into the genre of racing simulation, Gran Turismo Sport is a great place to start.

Under Night In-Birth EXE: Late{st} is a fighting game that deserves to be played but will inevitably be overshadowed by its competition. It’s a shame because its $50 price tag is worth it for the tutorial alone.

The Gallery: Heart of the Emberstone proudly carries the torch from the first chapter in The Gallery series. It offers an experience that feels totally unique in the gaming world. It does a fantastic job of breaking away from the stigma of short, proof-of-concept VR titles to deliver a quality narrative experience that’s a must-have for any fan of the genre.

The game does require you to work to earn your keep and master your racing skills, but it does so with fluid controls and an outstanding presentation that keeps you on your toes at every turn. Eventually, it does offer an enriched experience that surpasses most of its other racers – including the classic Dirt games we love so much. This series has truly grown up, but in a very good way.

Song of the Deep tells a compelling story and presents enjoyable, captivating Metroidvania gameplay set in an enthralling underwater world.

Even though some might be groaning at the cost of having to buy all new toys with it (relax, older ones work just fine as well), Skylanders SuperChargers still qualifies as one of the better games in the series to date. It's fun to play whether in a vehicle or running around, and it looks and sounds very nice for the most part. If your wallet is prepared, you'll have no problem reaching top speed with this one.

The fast-paced, adrenaline pumping action sequences that we’ve all come to love from Uncharted games are aplenty, and specifically, the game’s finale might be one of the best Uncharted sequences in the franchise.

The rapid, mini-game-like design of Shutshimi makes it ideal for quick bursts of play. Even then, the game is so captivating that it's hard to put down even after you've spent an hour or two playing.

A Plague Tale: Innocence doesn’t push the envelope as far as gameplay is concerned, but the incredibly compelling art direction and great writing should be experienced by any fans of single-player, narrative-driven experiences who don’t mind incredibly dark subject matter.

A must play for any fan of VR or evolving video game narrative. It may not be the kind of game that redefines motion controls and popular VR mechanics, but it proves that quality storytelling can be enhanced by placing the player directly into the world, rather than hiding them behind the safety of a screen.

The Division 2 is everything a player could want in a sequel. It reinvents and recalibrates where it must, but it also wisely builds off all the work Ubisoft put into refining the first Division. This sequel definitely makes you work for your rewards, but its fine-tuned gameplay and expansive suite of different activities ensures the journey towards earning those rewards is one worth taking.

Watch Dogs 2 is definitely an improvement over the original. The entire vibe of the series has changed for the better, with likable characters, tongue-in-cheek scenarios, and a new hacks and gadgets that will keep you busy for quite a while.

This is an ideal way to become introduced in the series, and it'll get you excited for the sequel to come.

If you’re a fan of the Far Cry series, Far Cry 5 is a definite must-have. The gameplay is familiar, but there are shiny new features that are a blast to play with.