Monster Hunt 4 Ultimate is easier to get into than its ancestors, but is just as entertaining.

It may not look the best these days, but this revamped Darkstalkers collection plays like a dream and boasts excellent netcode to boot. Throw in a great tutorial system and it's a winner, particularly at arcade title prices.

PGA 12 features the same kind of gradual evolution found in all EA Sports titles. The big-name improvements, such as Move support and the Masters content are welcome, and will no doubt inspire many to part company with the funds required to participate.

Skylanders Superchargers provides what we've come to expect from the series: high production values, fun for all ages, and reminders that you could spend a whole lot more on additional toys to play with.

Lego Batman 3 justifies its existence by expanding massively on what made its forebears successful. It probably won't hold the attention of mum and dad, but it's a great title for the kids.

A great addition to the series that shies away from the mindless killing-fest of other horror games on the market today, yet stays true to the atmospheric horror adventure of its roots. Great to play in the dark – if you dare.

Luigi's Mansion 3 is yet another excellent Nintendo exclusive and is the perfect antidote to the doom and gloom that runs rampant in the horror genre these days. It may not do everything perfectly, but from a technical side, I'm hard-pressed to think of a better-looking game on the Switch this year. It may not have the challenge some are looking for, but when the rest of the game is this wonderfully presented, it's hard not to just get sucked right along for the fun-filled, spooky adventure.

Xenoverse blurs the line between video game and anime. Despite a few issues, there’s tons of replay value here, and fans can finally fulfill their dream of putting themselves in Dragon Ball.

The story is satisfying, too. My only criticisms are that clocking in at under 80 minutes, Arkham VR is short and pretty simple. However, for a shade over 30 bucks, it's probably still worth it, particularly if you need an impressive looking and accessible title with which to impress your friends.

As movie tie-in games go, this is actually rather good. It flows well, is visually impressive and maintains sufficient pace and excitement to keep the young player tuned in for many hours.

Dead or Alive: Dimensions is a solid 3D fighting game. From the lush character animations, to the swift and responsive control scheme, the game shines with polish. Being the first Dead or Alive game to exist on a Nintendo platform, Team Ninja have pulled out all the stops and delivered a comprehensive title. You have access to 25 discrete fighters and the moves and combos that come with them, each with multiple costumes and unique special and sound effects.

DiRT 3 is an extremely flexible and polished racer that – despite some bland circuit design – delivers an extremely satisfying and assured driving experience. Coupled with amusing online modes it's a no-brainer for racing fans, and the racer those who detest such games should investigate at the very least.

Headmaster also gets bonus points for being hilarious to watch someone play. This might be my favourite PS VR game so far.

Like most other VR games, Rush of Blood is let down by the somewhat flaky tracking of your choice of controller, but it's still a gem (and another great one to inflict on others while you kick back and laugh).

The head aiming system works well at least, but overall it's the definition of unnecessary.

Doom on Switch has no right to be as good as it is. Some compromises aside, you’re getting the full, current-gen experience of Doom (minus SnapMap) on a console you can take anywhere. It’s a technical marvel that, besides a few issues, demonstrates what’s possible on Nintendo’s new hybrid.

I Am Bread arrives after a slew of physics-based "comedy" titles, but is nonetheless a winner thanks to compelling play and a shockingly-decent story.

Building off Super Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc's absurdist murder mystery base, Danganronpa 2 marries the series' strong crime-solving mechanics with a bizarre, hilarious dayglo nightmare well beyond the craziness of the original.

Star Wars: Battlefront is a simplified online shooter for a broad audience that delivers on its promise of Star Wars battle fantasies.

A great remake of a timeless classic. The pure arcade gameplay that was loved by so many, in a new revamped package that will appeal to modern gamers the world over.

The game is a triumph for pure racing aficionados, and is without doubt the best racing simulator available on the PS3. The only real disappointment is that we knew it would be, and hoped that the wealth of new features long touted by Polyphony would be produced with the same level of dedication and perfection shown in the heart of the game.

W.M.D does more than enough to justify its existence. In fact, it gets the series back on track after several recent-ish disappointments. Now 25 titles deep, Worms is truly the cockroach of the gaming world.

DropMix is an extremely accessible and entertaining toy that provides a nice entry point into the world of music mixing for kids. The tech is really impressive, and even though the game aspect is fairly simple, young ones will love it.

SOCOM: Special Forces isn't an epic single-player game, but it's not trying to be. The plot is mostly predictable but better told than the same story in other shooters, and the glitches are surprisingly absent when you take the game online. It's very obviously oriented towards the multiplayer experience, so if that's what you're after, this is one of the most enjoyable and complete tactical combat experiences in the current console generation.

With a stronger protagonist and better combat and RPG systems, Blackguards 2 is a more engaging, more incisive game than the original.

The static narratives and roguelike gameplay in Sunless Sea don't always gel together harmoniously, but Failbetter Games has succeeded in delivering a tense and engaging experience and a rich and atmospheric setting.

Dirt 4's casual-friendly additions subdue its handling model, but it's a great racer regardless – especially for those that struggle to stay on the track in Dirt Rally.

Knack 2 makes better use of its protagonist's abilities – and like any good sequel, throws a few more into the mix – but there isn't much story to support the revamped gameplay. Even so, excellent sound and level design get Knack over the line.

Driveclub: Bikes delivers a top-notch bike game for a very low price. Despite some small nitpicks, it stands out as the top of its kind this generation.

Equally as good on PC as it is on the Xbox 360. You’ll have trouble tearing the kids away from it, let alone yourself.

The first multiplatform release from Tarsier is a taut grim fairytale of a puzzle-platformer that's perfect to explore on a rainy afternoon.

This remake of one of the most memorable campaigns in FPS history is an anniversary worth celebrating, but if you were never a fan of the original it's unlikely to change your mind.

Hyrule Warriors Definitive Edition is the best way to play the game, and is a good fit on the Switch. That said, this one’s definitely for newcomers rather than returning players, and the frame rate can still play up in moments where’s there’s just a bit too much going on.

Despite feeling like an expansion to Saints Row: The Third, the ridiculous story missions and the excellently-implemented superpowers make Saints Row IV an enormous amount of fun.

Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix is a great addition to the Street Fighter franchise and will keep dedicated fans entertained for a long time to come. Unfortunately though, new players to the title will most likely be deterred by the fairly steep difficulty curve in Arcade Mode, and the fact that the controls are never really explained.

If you're looking for something a little new in the racing genre then you can't go wrong picking this little gem up.

Despite being an average FPS game, Dark Athena manages to provide solid entertainment, mainly due to the inclusion of Escape from Butcher Bay.

Battlefleet Gothic: Armada is a beautiful game that’s flawed but brilliant. Occasionally obtuse but always entertaining, it’s a wonderfully unique way to experience the Warhammer 40k universe.

The Lost Legacy eases off the set-pieces and globe-trotting, to its detriment. However, the heartiest of Uncharted's staples – its characters, camaraderie, and cutscenes – are here in abundance, and overall it's an extremely capable action title.

Don Bradman Cricket 17 builds on a strong foundation to provide video gaming's best crack at emulating a complex and (for the gaming mainstream) niche sport. While we give it an 8/10, in cricketing terms, it's a well-played four.

1979 Revolution: Black Friday is a groundbreaking game, not in terms of gameplay, but in its depiction of real historical events in an accurate, thoughtful manner, and its exploration of a genre rarely touched by video games.

War for the Chosen adds a huge amount of content and a number of new mechanics to an already brimming game. It's a generous package that ought to please and frustrate (in a good way!) XCOM devotees.

A meticulously detailed World War One flight and combat simulator that will entertain and enthral devotees with its period accuracy.

Sniper Elite 4 improves all areas of the franchise to a greater or lesser extent, and its protagonist remains the only real weak spot.

The experience is silly, charming, engaging and fun - the best LEGO game to date.

However, it is hard not to think more could have been done to capitalise on the improvements that have been made and make this year's Madden a milestone title. Instead Madden NFL 2012 is, well, 'just' another Madden title.

The campaign attempts to wrap itself in the dramatic cloak of human tragedy but fails to deliver on that emotive promise.

NBA 2K20 is a surprisingly fully featured offering on the Switch. The game controls beautifully and the Switch does a decent job on the graphical side of things. Some particularly egregious microtransactions do show up but thankfully, these can be ignored for the most part. 2K20 is hands down the best way to play basketball on the Switch right now and should be picked up by any fans of the sport.

The Evil Within is a fine example of classic survival horror, but it's held back a little by some stiff characterisation and flat story beats.

Killer Instinct is shaping up well and that's the problem – this isn't a full game by any stretch of the imagination. Still, what is here shows that Double Helix will likely do the series proud with an update that is at once reverential and forward-thinking.

While it may not have the epic sweep and polish of a Rockstar title, Sleeping Dogs is refreshingly streamlined, serious, and contained, even as it pays homage to its sometimes less-than-grounded source material.

Red Alert 3 builds well on its predecessors. The console iteration does feel cluttered and hampered by an overloaded controller, but the game itself is great. RTS's on consoles seem like they are here to stay, and Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 is certainly not to be sniffed at, particularly if you are a fan of the series.

All but the hardest kernel of strategy fans may be overwhelmed by the micromanagement required and jaded by the long hours of meticulous planning that precede any action, but Hearts of Iron III isn’t designed with casual players in mind. Fans of the series and the genre will find much to be excited about.

Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn may be a bit forging for die-hard platforming fans, but it still manages to offer a fun adventure for gamers of all ages. While minor control issues hold that game back from the greatness typically associated with Nintendo platformers, its more laid back approach and focus on straight-forward fun is the perfect entry point for those new to the genre.

Toy Story 3 isn't without its problems, but anyone seriously considering purchasing it to expand their Toy Story experience this year won't be disappointed.

Not your usual Ratchet & Clank game, and although an interesting departure from the 'insane action' formula, it can quickly become an exercise in frustration. It's a good game, but one that will require patience to master.

As it stands though, Fight Night Champion presents some excellent fighting packaged in what amounts to two less than perfect game modes.

There is certainly room for a thoughtful shooter or fifty among the brain-dead gorillas that currently populate the genre, and what is on offer here in that regard is encouraging, even if it's not executed to the highest standards. The Line's dramatic punches would have landed with a lot more force had the in-game macho quotient been dialled back a few notches and had all involved not made the choice to speak through clenched teeth, but it does represent a welcome step in the right direction.

Naruto’s first outing on the PS3 manages to stay true to the anime whilst making the most of next-gen grunt. Sure, there are a few minor nit-picky issues and the relatively simple ‘button mashing’ style of fighting may not suit everyone, but fans should be well pleased with the total package.

Sure, it's another expansion to the immensely popular Guitar Hero franchise, but a worthy one nonetheless. If you love Aerosmith then it goes without saying you'll love this. The wireless controller is the icing on the cake.

Uncharted: Golden Abyss gets most of the way there; it is a stunning exhibition piece for the Vita's power and graphical capabilities (and a more subtle exhibition piece for its gimmicks), and it's a smart, modern take on treasure-hunting fantasies with enjoyable characters and classical themes.

A perfect visual and audio upgrade to a bonafide classic that sadly can do little to bring its dated game play and simplistic design to a modern audience. Fans and kids alike however will no doubt find many hours of enjoyment in this expertly presented package.

Company of Heroes provides ample entertainment for strategy and history enthusiasts alike, but it suffers significantly from the burden of expectation created by its lineage.

New Super Mario Bros. U is hardly a groundbreaking release. But it is a beautifully-presented demonstration of the franchise's fundamentals, with just enough extra content to hold back accusations of creative bankruptcy.

Crucially, Crysis 2 represents the maturation of first-person shooters in general. Gone are the ludicrous system requirements, and the open-world setting. Instead, the series has shifted to a more focused linear playing field, where your actions are guided by the game rather than by your own curiosity.

Luckily for Dungeon Siege III, the loot – generally a major in games like these – and the flaws in the multiplayer can be covered for by the many other positives brought to the table. The slick action, the tidy levelling system, and the presentation all create a game well worth playing. Grab a friend, grab a couple of drinks and any problems seem to vanish.

The best experience with this title will be had by someone who enjoyed Dragon Age: Origins until the very end.

The transition to PC hasn't been without problems, but Red Faction: Guerrilla still represents an enjoyable experience for those looking to expand their shooter library.

Gunslinger is a solid return to form for Techland, anchoring their colourful arcade take on the Old West in a story told with a great deal of heart and good humour. If only other parts of the game showed such originality.

I'd suggest that if you managed to make it through the entire game the first time around, then you owe it to yourself to purchase The Passing. Sure, it's short, but the mutation mode is set to add a heap of gameplay over the coming months, so get on board sooner rather than later.

Starbreeze's Syndicate may be a far cry from the isometric squad-based tactical shooter of yestercentury, but it delivers a solid campaign and great co-op. Sadly, civilians cannot be gathered for use as meat shields using a persuadertron, and there are no comical car-related deaths to be found, but what is on offer here is - for the most part - slick, violent and most entertaining.

WoW Classic offers exactly what fans wanted – an untouched version of a game that came out fifteen years ago... warts and all. Thankfully, Classic captures much of the magic that made the game such a phenomenon in the first place. Whether fans will still overlook this in the months to come remains to be seen, but for now it's a fantastic trip down memory lane.

Essentially there's very little to whinge about with UFC Undisputed 2010 on the PSP – it's easier to play than its bigger brothers so provides a nice entry point into the genre, yet experienced MMA gamers will appreciate the depth and being able to take their fighting on the road.

Blackguards is a strong RPG with top-notch tactical combat that's let down by some needless complexity and less-than-convincing voice-acting.

Ripped straight from the movie, you warm up your Proton Pack and do battle with some of the film icons, plus a few new ones. A heap of ectoplasmatic fun for anyone who still smiles at the siren sound and the iconic “who you gonna call” theme song.

"Quotation Forthcoming"

Wanted: Weapons of Fate is a relatively well compiled shooter, but misses out on top marks by simply being too short.

This is no cut-down, dumbed-down version of its full sized counterparts. Guitar Hero: On Tour goes to great lengths to prove you can make beautiful music - and a real ass of yourself - absolutely anywhere.

It may be all a bit familiar for seasoned Pokémon gamers, but there's enough content in Fossil Fighters to keep even a cynic entertained.

Some great concepts and even an original feature or two. This is a solid RPG, but ultimately not one you'll remember six months down the track.

Final Fantasy VII REMAKE is a spectacular game that soars and falls in equal measure. There is a lot to love here, but frustrations and disappointments mar the experience. A solid central story is undermined by needless padding. Exceptional combat loses its edge at times due to unfortunate design choices, and gorgeous visuals are muddied with some appalling technical shortcomings.

Those not yet completely jaded by zombie movies and games will find Dead Nation a very agreeable game, especially those looking for a reasonably challenging top-down shooter.

Rad isn’t really dramatically reinventing any wheels, but it’s the perfect wee game to have sitting on your HD for some casual fun. You can bust out a run in its delightfully weird world in an hour or so and have a slightly different experience each time. It may not inspire the sort of rabid devotion of something like Spelunky, but it’s a great gaming snack between meals.

A solid game with fantastic sound and visuals. However, unpolished aspects of gameplay will cause frustration. Ultimately, Force Unleashed is unlikely to be remembered for anything other than its excellent story.

Fans of the original game seeking more of the same will not be disappointed, however overall the game lacks the underlying menace of the original. There's a good first person shooter to be had, but it lacks the fire and innovation of the original.

However, Toy Soldiers: Cold War easily shrugs off these complaints and will force a grin onto the mug of even the most sceptical player for the duration of its campaign. There is not a lot of offer beyond that, but for twenty bucks it'll fulfil your hankering for both action and '80s nostalgia with winking enthusiasm.

Payday 2's singleplayer isn't worth consideration, but a few bugbears aside, its multiplayer is a tense, frequently exhilarating experience. Its challenging levels are best approached with crime-minded friends, and randomised elements (along with the promise of five DLC packs) will keep players in the game well after that one final score.

The blurb on the back of the Virtua Tennis 2009 cover states “The World’s No.1 Tennis Series Returns” – but the big question is: Does it return with anything new? The answer is no, nothing worth making a song and dance about anyway.

Midway’s first foray into the ring proves that they have what it takes to mix it with the big boys of wrestling simulations, but they do fall just short of a 3-count.

Liars and Cheats is the third downloadable content pack for Rockstar's Red Dead Redemption. The pack contains a variety of new features to expand the Free Roam multiplayer world including player vs. player poker and liar's dice. The pack also adds a new multiplayer game mode called Stronghold and introduces horse racing.

Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D does a lot of things well - it's a challenging platformer that understands what made the original Donkey Kong games tick and updates it for a new generation. The problem is that it doesn't go far beyond the boundaries set by the originals, and some of the fresh additions don't fare well in this port.

Days Gone is an ambitious new IP that borrows heavily from its influences. It still maintains its own identity and features some genuinely fun gameplay. It's unfortunately held back by countless technical issues, but if you're willing to tolerate these, the moment to moment gameplay is enjoyable. While there's nothing revolutionary about the game, it's worth a go if you're a zombie fan.

The game’s familiar format means instant gratification, and the option to download new tracks is a major draw card for us… plus it’s excellent value for money and damn good fun, to boot.

Easily the most substantial of the early titles and one that is sure to enthral young players as well as the young at heart.

Daemon X Machina does enough to satisfy those wanting solid mech combat. Good looking effects and blisteringly fast paced combat, coupled with tight controls makes this one a must-play for fans of the genre. Despite nailing the mech side of things, the game boasts one of the most unlikable roster of characters I've encountered in years. Despite the forgettable story, the game managed to hold my interest for the duration; I just couldn't tell you what it was about...

Ultimately however, Epic Mickey proves to be a challenging and engaging experience. It is loving homage to an entertainment empire that has stood the test of time.

Media Molecule's shift to the third-person has resulted in a mixed bag - the eye-popping visual style and the story's characteristic earnestness are tempered by clumsy platforming and thematic overcomplication. Tearaway is a very good platformer, but greatness is just out of reach.

Tripwire Interactives Killing Floor is what you would expect of a polished mod, but doesn't exceed expectations as a retail game. It's good, but unfortunately far from perfect. A nice addition to the survival-horror genre though, and it has an attractively cheap price tag.