New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe is a perfect addition to the Switch's ever-=growing library of excellent games. A huge amount of content, coupled with perfectly executed tight controls makes this entry a must play for any and all fans of the genre.

Trials Fusion delivers exactly what one would expect: the usual high-class core gameplay in a new setting. It's not radically different to other games in the series, but for the moment, that's completely fine.

Call of Duty is undeniably a piece of propaganda fiction that glamorises and bolsters the image of war, as well as the perspective and ‘righteousness’ of western forces. That said, the campaign of this reboot of Modern Warfare tries heavy handedly, and at times problematically, to more fully and authentically tease out the ethics, complexities, and perspectives of one of our world’s biggest current conflicts. Though far from perfect, there is still absolutely some important ideas and experiences for players in this campaign, ones that may even open your eyes to a new way of thinking about warfare and the people in it - especially when thinking about ways that we can and should be fighting here in New Zealand, by accepting the refugees of these conflicts and contributing as much aid as possible.

Thanks to top-notch mechanics and the deep well that is Greek mythology, Ascension is a winner. It may not be the absolute best God of War game, but it's certainly worthy of the moniker.

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.

Buzz gets a few enhancements and new features for the PS3 version, but it’s the same game we’ve come to love and still the best quiz game around.

Lego Dimensions gets its crazy pop culture mash-up right, and adds some interesting real-world mechanics to the toys-to-life genre. The financial barrier to entry is high, but it's not bad value by any stretch.

Yet another quirky PSN title that just screams replayability. It's challenging, but ultimately may prove too frustrating for the casual gamer which it appears to be aimed at. Nevertheless, good value for money and definitely one for the platform/side-scroller freaks out there.

Pokemon Sword & Shield doesn't take enough risks or attempt anything really new and important. The overwhelming amount of re-used assets and shortcuts leads to one of the biggest missed opportunities on the Switch to date. Newcomers will find a lot to love here, with no previous games to measure it against, but longtime series fans will likely be left wanting in almost every area.

Puppeteer is a delightful platformer whose attractive patchwork visuals and fairytale-style story are complemented by great voice acting, clever presentation, and a neat gameplay twist.

Tomb Raider: Underword manages to impress on so many levels.

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.

Like an old friend come back to life. Ace Combat 7 feels like a neat and tidy resurrection, bringing back everything you missed from flight simulator games, while consequently reminding you why the industry lost interest in them.

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.

Rime is a pleasant title that's extremely easy on the eyes, and perhaps a little too easy on the brain.

If you thought first-person shooters couldn't be done justice on the Wii (and I was in that boat) then Red Steel 2 will make you think again. It's stunning on the eye and gets your blood pumping both with the onscreen action and the physicality required to play it.

Naughty Dog has been done proud. These games demonstrate how innovative the developer was even decades ago with its unique approach to camera-work, level design and overall tone. It is Vicarious Visions that's at fault for this collection's pitfall. Its decision to leave gameplay largely untouched is questionable, but the overall lack of polish on the package itself is inexcusable.

I have full faith that Polyphony will set these minor issues straight for the full fat, maximum fuel, premium octane, environmentally ignorant release of what is undoubtedly, the greatest car driving experience to visit the console world.

Those expecting a quantum leap forward in this release will be disappointed, however the multitudes of people eagerly anticipating the kind of clever twists and darkly humorous social commentary Lionhead excel in will not come away empty handed. The trip to Albion is well worth the price of admission.

Beamdog has delivered the definitive Icewind Dale experience.

Pokemon Sword & Shield doesn't take enough risks or attempt anything really new and important. The overwhelming amount of re-used assets and shortcuts leads to one of the biggest missed opportunities on the Switch to date. Newcomers will find a lot to love here, with no previous games to measure it against, but longtime series fans will likely be left wanting in almost every area.

Super Mega Baseball is an enjoyable throwback to a time when sports games were for everyone rather than just enthusiasts.

As if it weren't clear by the title, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance indulges the ridiculous. This entry into the now-hallowed franchise is one of the very best.

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

A truly spectacular soccer title with exceptional player animations, ball handling and gameplay to boot. The AI will provide a significant challenge, but the implementation of one of the most advanced and complete online modes will mean that this game will truly last you a long time.

Pokémon: Let’s Go is a fun, light nostalgia trip for long time players, and an easy on-ramp into the Pokémon console games for new players. Its greatest feat is presenting a stunning graphical style and approach which wonderfully blends players desire for 3D Pokémon games with the core tenets of the franchise – setting high expectations for the Generation Eight debut on the Switch next year.

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.

Much will no doubt be made of the similarity between Reckoning and Skyrim, but both offer sufficiently different experiences to keep all RPG fans attentive. Those growing weary of Skyrim can certainly look to Reckoning to provide another world in which to become wholly absorbed, and although not professing quite the sophistication or polish of Bethesda's juggernaut, there's plenty here to cause Hallmark to run out of "I'm Sorry, Please Forgive Me" Valentines cards this year.