As a combination of both political strategy and Lovecraftian drama, The Shrouded Isle takes this idea and provides a comfortably tense experience whereby every choice should matter but with enough leeway that inexperienced players can still make mistakes. Fans of classic horror literature may be drawn to this game through its distortedly gothic art style and otherworldly premise, but the large difficulty curve may be too complicated for them, even if the repetitive gameplay structure can feel rewarding once you get the hang of it.

Enter a world where crime doesn’t happen, and investigate murder, theft, and apocalypse. Also lots of talking.

Nova Strike is a fun and challenging shoot ‘em up, featuring procedurally generated levels making each time you play feel different than the last. The game isn’t super long, but if you choose to play again, there are other things to challenge yourself with.

A hilarious 2.5D platformer which will have you wanting to play on due to the fantastic characters, solid storyline and first-rate voice acting. Flipping Death has a good mix of puzzles but is slightly let down by its somewhat forced platforming sections.

New World is a great title for new MMO fans to get themselves lost in, but it may be a struggle to entice older fans of the genre to leave the worlds they know.

It’s nice that the developer is still supporting the game almost 18 months on, improving the post-launch state of the game, and the lesbian polyamory is just nice to see without delving too deep into fanservice.

A great shooter that offers a surprising amount of variety and content. The mechanics may be simple but EDF 4.1 showcases spectacle above all else and it always proves to be thrilling.

This title is probably better on the PC where I imagine it runs smoother. How it is now, it makes for a decent puzzle title with an interesting concept that is shackled by an issue that ruins the experience by making easy moves difficult and difficult moves impossible.

State of Decay 2: Juggernaut Edition may be a repetitive game, but it boasts numerous improvements over its original release, even if it still has a bug or two.

The METAL GEAR SOLID: MASTER COLLECTION Vol.1 is as solid as you can get with modern platforms, coming with a great selection of games and bonus features that can make new fans out of curious newbies.

Clock Simulator is exactly what it sounds like, and it’s fantastic. The game features whole minutes of unique content, minimalistic artwork and easy to grasp mechanics that allow anyone to play, but seldom few to master.

A surprise expansion that’s a fun romp across the Mediterranean with a wide array of new toys to play with and some subtle but useful changes to the original game. No new mastery and a handful of polish issues are a shame but it’s a great reason to go back to Titan Quest.

Although a few issues can mar the overall enjoyment, CRYMACHINA is nevertheless an enjoyable tale of reincarnated humans and their struggle to define what it is to be a “real human”. Slick, responsive combat and a fantastic musical score make this a title you shouldn’t overlook.

IRONBORNE calls back to a simpler time in gaming and still provides an addictive experience. However, be mindful of your saves and how much time has passed to keep your sanity.

Trash Goblin makes you play like a goblin in a nice, quirky world, with simple yet addictive gameplay. However, I really would recommend changing the settings to save your hands from cramps.

I can’t help but think TT Games rushed this one, as it had too many bugs to be truly incredible, but if they can patch those out it’s yet another fantastic LEGO game that you’re going to love.

Paper Trail is a really nice game with a lot of fun to be had. It has some small issues and feels a little too short for its price, but is a great experience if that doesn’t bother you.

Puzzle Parasite is a great puzzle title that will rack your brain and offer some really fun solutions to try out. However, it relies a little too much on the actual execution of solutions to feel satisfying.

I really wanted to love Void Scrappers, and I enjoyed the first few hours of what I played quite a lot, but after a while, I noticed its problems and how easily they could’ve been fixed before release. However, I’m still looking forward to the next game from 8BitSkull because of this title’s addicting nature.

Unnecessary padding in the career mode and a few presentation blemishes detract somewhat from what is otherwise a more than competent and content-rich supercross sim, which caters to fans of all skill levels.

Pine Hearts is an exploration game with bittersweet undertones, merging childhood memories with that of a more grown-up perspective. It’s a narrative for all ages and one that’s flaws don’t detract from the overall experience.

Objectively, I don't really see much of a flaw with this game at all. It was actually put together beautifully, but, personally, it wasn't the most gripping or entertaining game I've ever played. This is entirely down to preference and I encourage anyone to give it a go. I guarantee you won't be disappointed. If you like claymation, and indie games, and RPGs.

Whether you are a serious fan of bullet hell games or new to the genre, Raiden V: Director’s Cut is a great place to start. It offers easy to play, but hard to master gameplay and some great moments throughout and lives up to the series name!

Kaiju Wars is a great game for anyone who loves classic monster movies, old school games, and strategy titles that have you using your brains trying to protect the city, not destroy it.

Tense, terrifying, and a significant improvement on its predecessor, The Evil Within 2 capitalises on the potential the franchise clearly shows.

I can count on one hand the number of times where Tokyo Dark fully takes advantage of its powerful storytelling abilities, and you’re left looking for more of them.

Motocross fans are likely to be pleased, but those not into the extreme sport might not find it as enjoyable.

A competent if uninspiring roguelite platformer that provides a fun, challenging time with lots of things to unlock. Satisfying combat and challenging enemy AI makes the moment to moment gameplay worth a look.

Video Game Fables is a twist on your classic turn-based RPG with new fighting mechanics and an original story with a great sense of humour and non-typical heroes forced to save the day. There is a lot of grinding required but the system to level up your characters and weapons is interesting.

Human: Fall Flat is elegant in its gameplay and boasts delightful graphics. No matter how frustrated I got at not being able to solve puzzles, I kept at it because of just how enjoyable it was. The soundtrack that accompanies Human: Fall Flat works wonders also, and I loved how bright and vibrant the game was from start to finish.

Read Only Memories: Neurodiver is like a beautiful dream: it can sweep you off your feet with impeccable music, beautiful visuals, and an entertaining story, but once it’s over, it loses some lustre.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 remains true to the original with updated graphics and the original soundtrack. Occasionally cameras will struggle to find the right angle to follow the skater but this is a great game to play alone or with friends.

A simple-looking yet mechanically rich title, Alina of the Arena’s addictive gameplay always felt rewarding no matter how long I played, and it always felt like there was a new card just waiting to be found.

The story is fun and is one any veteran or newbie of this series will enjoy. The multiplayer adds lots of fun to the title and adds so much more time to the game if you enjoy it. The environments are bland and boring but overall this game is worth picking up just for the story alone.

A definite recommendation for Fairy Tail fans, Fairy Tail 2 has its issues, mainly with pacing, but the overall package is an enjoyable journey with a beloved cast of characters.

Trulon: The Shadow Engine, made by Kyy Games and published by Headup Games, is a single player casually paced RPG. For those new to the genre as well as those with loads of experience, this is a game that has interesting lore and simple game mechanics. Being laid back gives it an edge on some other RPGs currently on the market, as it is easily approachable. Perhaps Trulon: The Shadow Engine will be my gateway game of sorts to exploring other card-based RPG games.

While it can be jarring jumping from 2D animation into 3D, all three games tie into each other pretty well and offer a fun experience for both old and new fans.

Blood and Wine held all the components to make a great final adventure, but failed to truly capitalise on any one of them. If you’re looking for a good final experience to cap off your monster hunting career, go finish Hearts of Stone again – this one’s rather underwhelming.

Risk System is a new take on a familiar genre, you are rewarded for being risky and taking chances. The game is challenging with boss battles that can feel unfair at times, making you want to give up.

W.A.N.D. Project is a fun roguelike shoot ‘em up title that has a great spellcasting system that lets you customise your attack and makes this game feel unique.

Part Pikmin with a splash of Metroid, The Wild at Heart takes these concepts but never utilises them to their full extent. That said, it is fun in short bursts when you need to unwind. With a touching plot and beautiful hand-drawn visuals, this is an impressive first outing for developers Moonlight Kids.

Time manipulation with an action hero instead of a prince. It’s an interesting puzzle game in the guise of a first-person shooter, and if you ignore the story there’s a lot of fun to be had here.

I’m not a puzzle gamer, but this game did keep me entertained for quite a few hours, and I had a relatively good time all the way through. Co-op is here, for those who really long for it, but it isn’t implemented well enough to say that it’s the best way to play the game.

Northend Tower Defense is a good, if short, time that makes winning each battle hard-fought and earned. You’ll suffer some losses along the way, but it makes your victory all the more sweeter.

Dragon Quest Heroes 2 is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but it doesn’t feel like a big enough leap. There are minor gameplay improvements that result in a more unique and refined experience, but at it’s core the game is still struggling to pull itself away from the Dynasty Warriors series.

Echoes of the great 8 and 16 bit platformers of yore abound in this innovative and quirky indie game that starts with a weird premise and keeps building on it in style.

While having some frustrating moments, Collector’s Cove can be a relaxing experience that encourages exploration and discovery. Take your time, and you’ll be rewarded greatly in this game.

Overall, a solid and enjoyable game with somewhat a somewhat interesting art style. Which, at the same time, is nothing to scream about. Simple but effective, just what I like. For those who like a challenge or looking to experience a few dozen hours suffering quietly as you watch all your well laid plans come to fruition (before shortly failing), then this is most certainly worth a buy.

Lost Eidolons is a tactical RPG that takes time to become attached to. However, once you start to get the swing of things you may just become hooked.

Doesn’t break any Artifex Mundi tropes or anything, but also isn’t a bad time waster. Fans of light puzzles and predictable stories with damsels in distress that turn into the champion by the end will find what they’re looking for here.

WRATH: Aeon of Ruin is a very fun time, but it's not for everyone. You’ll find expansive levels and worthy challenges to conquer for those willing and ready to face what it offers.

Whilst not having as much additional content as a full sequel perhaps should have, Train Sim World 4 is still undoubtedly the king of the rails. The almost inexhaustible amount of content on offer is enough to get any train fan to hop on board.

STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor has everything a fantastic game should have as far as features. Sadly, what it lacks is optimisation from its developers. This has greatly hindered one's ability to enjoy the experience on all platforms.

Ratcheteer DX looks and feels just like the classic action-adventure titles you grew up playing. It's a challenging time!

Littlewood is a wonderful city builder, relaxing life-sim, and collect-a-thon game. I only wish that its social aspects had been a bit more centre focus for it falls short in comparison to all of the other systems in place.

Scott Pilgrim EX is just a really dumb, fun adventure through the streets of Toronto. Though it has some hiccups, you fall in lesbians with its combat, art direction, and writing.

A solid hybrid of mechanic and off-road driving games, Offroad Mechanic Simulator offers a good amount of content that’s more engaging than you might think.

An engaging yet flawed chapter satisfyingly closes off the season and sets the stage for Clementine's next adventure.

Disjointed storytelling and the dull protagonist aside, the Komorebi narrative and characters engrossed me in a way that I will genuinely miss the world that I delved into in my 20-hour playthrough.

With an aggravating protagonist and a messy structure, Rise of the Tomb Raider does not manage to bring Lara back to her full glory. Nevertheless, this game improves a lot in comparison to the prequel, and provides with uncountable moments of thrill and awe, particularly when in terms of puzzles and architecture.

A lack of engaging story and characters aside, NITRO GEN OMEGA excels with its strategic combat, gorgeous visual style, and overall uniqueness.

Despite the repetitiveness, Cattails does provide a lot of different things to do from romancing other cats, to starting your own community of cats. It offers something different from the usual RPG game and is well worth checking out if you are tired of the cookie cutter RPGs out there.

Penko Park’s undeniable influences and not-so-stellar content make it a bit of a hard sell, but for those looking for a Pokémon Snap-style game, it’s a fine choice.

Unforgiving, with no tutorials, and a true-to-classic experience, System Shock is a retro survival horror title through and through, but you should still consider checking it out, even if you don’t care for the original.

A very unique game about the evolution of man that isn’t afraid to drop you in the world and make you figure out everything for yourself, which may turn some people off immediately.

Tekken 7 does just enough right for it to be considered a success. However, hopefully the structure of the game won't be the basic formula going forward.

It’s a fun time crashing through buildings and fences, and an easy recommendation at a budget price.

Hellbound is a great experience. Although it does rely heavily on the DOOM aesthetic, Saibot Studios have created a core gameplay experience that could be the launchpad of something brilliant.

SiNiSistar 2 isn't for the faint of heart, and it's a tough pill to swallow in some areas. But for those looking for a raw experience, it's easy to suggest traversing the lands of Arsezon.

Hello Neighbor 2 is an improvement over the earlier game but still has a few issues to work out. That being said I did find it to be an enjoyable and challenging experience.

If you want a match-3 puzzle game on the Switch, then definitely take a look. It’s a nice, casual puzzle game that might infuriate you on occasion, but will certainly keep you occupied.

Moldwasher stands out with its quirky ways and keeps the cleaning simulation fun, even in 2D!

It’s always fun to control a robot that can smash through windows, but the lack of content might put some people off.

R-Type Delta: HD Boosted is a great remake of the original PlayStation game. It looks and sounds excellent, and even with the quality-of-life improvements, it’s still incredibly intense!

ORDER 13 is a bite-sized horror game that will have you on edge as you try to keep your cute cat alive and strict quotas fulfilled. Cute, scary, and challenging – it’s definitely worth a try.

A short, yet sweet experience, Cleaning Up! doesn’t require much from players, but its chilled, cosy nature makes it an easy one to recommend.

Dusk Diver 2 is a stylish, well-thought-out, and addictive hack n’ slash game, and while budgetary constraints might’ve bogged it down in a few areas, you still shouldn’t pass it over.

Ant Workshop have created a tightly focussed title with a clear ethos and a truly original game mechanic. The difficulty may be off putting for some, but it’s intrinsic to the game.

King Arthur: Knight's Tale is a great turn-based strategy game, but vastly more so for those well-versed in Arthurian legend. That said, even if you don't know much about the legend — or want to learn about it — this is a great game.

Kujlevka is a narrative-focused adventure, and as such has very few gameplay segments, but is very enjoyable due to its short length.

A simple adventure offering a short journey across a ravaged world, unfortunately the story doesn’t unfold as well as it could have done and the puzzles and platforming sections are very basic. Still, this is a relaxing trip worth setting sail for.

Hex Gambit: Respawned is an interesting update to strategy board games from the past. Learning how to play is easy, but not being able to create your own team added an extra level of challenge.

Lone Ruin is a beautiful and addictive game where you can choose your path and power-ups as you progress through these abandoned ruins fighting off numerous enemies. Unfortunately, the game is quite short, especially if you aren’t interested in getting a high score on the Leaderboard.

Despite some (mostly successful) attempts to tweak the formula, this is, at its core, Serious Sam exactly how you remember it.

Both campaigns add maybe eight to ten hours of extra gameplay onto Total War: Warhammer, and while solid, enjoyable experiences neither are anything to write home about. Despite this, fans of the two races will have lots to explore and enjoy.

Overall Forma.8 is a good, if slightly flawed take on the Metroidvania genre. Its barebones story is divisive as it depends almost entirely on players’ interpretations. The gameplay is satisfying at times and thrilling at others though its inconsistency is what holds the game back. For those wanting to explore seriously stylish and striking environments, you could do much worse than Forma.8.

An amazing emotional experience that trips and stumbles, but shows what Telltale is capable off.

If you enjoy the god sim/sandbox genres you will be in for a treat with this title. Graphically, the game is adorable with some really lovely character models and landscapes but this game is so much more than cute dinosaurs and sweet looking lizards! Underneath it all is a surprisingly fun and addictive game with a huge amount of depth and replayability. A must have game for fans of the genre.

It's very short, but Pineapple: A Bittersweet Revenge offers enough tasty morsels to be worth checking out.

Everdream Valley is a peaceful experience with a great sense of progression. It does have a few issues, but they can be overlooked for a fun farming simulator.

An amazing emotional experience that trips and stumbles, but shows what Telltale is capable off.

Overall, I did have a blast playing Pokémon Let’s Go Eevee. I did like visiting all the cities of the original Pokémon games again and seeing all the original Pokémon. However, I really did not like how they changed how you capture Pokémon and I did not like the setup of the Pokémon boxes. For those who want to play this game for nostalgia reasons, I would recommend waiting until a sale comes out before purchasing. For newcomers to Pokémon, this is a really good introduction into the world of Kanto.

It manages to improve upon the previous game, and thankfully fixes some of it's problems. Since you can import your save from the last game, you should probably check that out first - it will help give you a deeper understanding of the story too.

Newcomers to the series are very much recommended to plump for this collection, it’s got everything you need and the story is excellent. Otherwise, it’s probably not worth shelling out to buy everything again.

Slightly Mad Studios have, in the year since release, tidied up Project CARS no end. There’s still a few small niggles here and there, but overall this is now a title I will happily have adorning my shelf.

Stikbold! is a beautifully unique party game at its core. Though a short campaign allows you to familiarize yourself to the gameplay, it’s lacking refinement to be considered worth much of your time. Multiplayer is where the game blossoms, it becomes an outstanding display of cartoon chaos. With so many different possibilities and room for further content, it’s best played with a gaggle of mates alongside you.

Mirrored Souls uses its gimmick well for some really cool and fun puzzles, however, there were just some levels that didn’t quite stick the landing for me.

ZHEROS is a really fun and basic two player co-op video game for all ages.