Deathloop is in a weird spot. It isn't as good as Dishonored, but I also don't expect to see another game in the series. If you want to support the studio or need a Dishonored fix, this will help...but honestly, the game isn't that fun.

Chivalry 2 improves upon the original release by a good margin, but it still needs to work out some bugs and kinks. For those looking for some medieval madness, it might be best to wait for some more patches before diving in.

While Shin Megami Tensei 5 is rough around the edges, fans of the series will be satisfied. However, newcomers to the series and those not impressed by the previous entries best approach with caution.

Soul Calibur VI is the best looking and best playing game of the series, but the number of available options and characters is lacking. Fighting game fans will still have a blast in this stage of history, but don’t be surprised if it leaves you wanting more.

Despite having four years of updates behind it, Street Fighter V: Champion Edition is far from the definitive version of the game. Though the core fighting engine powering this title is sound, its poor netcode and lack of polish stick out like a sore thumb.

Lost Judgment is another great entry in the Yakuza franchise, but one shadowed by better entries. The combat is incredible, the world still exciting and full of character, and the story is a worthwhile telling - but please, please don't make me tail anyone anymore.

Those that can turn a blind eye to Mortal Kombat 11’s grind will have a good time turning their opponent into meaty bits. The core fighting engine powering this title isn’t drastically different compared to previous entries, but there’s no point in fixing what isn’t broken.

For a game about dinosaurs and the end of the world, Goodbye Volcano High’s coming of age tale ironically plays things far too safe. Those looking for a comfort tale akin to an anime will enjoy its trappings, but those who have already graduated have no doubt seen what this title has to offer.

NBA 2K19’s on-court disappointments are somewhat remedied by the hugely entertaining off-the-court shenanigans, but a steep learning curve may leave less experienced players a little overwhelmed.

Samurai Shodown's signature deliberate pace is perfectly captured in this entry, though the small roster and lack of options somewhat hinder its replayability.

Metro Exodus has the potential to be a solid game, but it just isn’t there in its current state. Those on the fence best wait for a few patches before picking this one up.

Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown is a solid experience for fighter plane enthusiasts, but it plays things too safe. Sticking to a tried-and-tested formula that has ensured the series' success and continuation for nearly 25 years is a sound strategy, but it lacks in innovation and any new exciting creative direction.

Nelly Cootalot: Spoonbeaks Ahoy! HD proves that charm does not age, but some of the gameplay mechanics in this point-and-click adventure are a little long in the tooth. Those that can overcome this facet will have a great time on this swashbuckling adventure.

For those who have never played a Lumines game before, Lumines Remastered is a must buy. However, though the HD upgrade adds to its audiovisual splendor, don’t be surprised if it feels a little too by the books.

Judgment is a must-play for fans of the Yakuza franchise and a fantastic entry level title for those a little put off by the time required to catch up with the Yakuza series. It offers a fun and challenging dive into a wonderfully crafted game world, whose only disappointment is the result of the quality of past works.

Scarlet Nexus boasts a story that is impossible not to recommend. Bandai Namco has created a truly intriguing world that, even after completing the game, has me yearning for more. The option of playing the second main character, which boasts a different story direction, would be the perfect remedy if not for the other areas of the game falling short. Repetitive mechanics and frustrating combat design hamper what could otherwise be an incredible adventure.

While DNF Duel’s MP system adds a new layer to the fighting game genre, this title plays things far too safe. Fans of Arc System Works’ other fighters will enjoy throwing down as wind wielders and puppet masters, but the studios’ other titles manage to do everything on offer here.

Star Wars: Squadrons is a solid Star Wars game, but it will only have legs for a specific kind of player. If you are okay with more sim-based fliers instead of arcade ones, be sure to check this one out.

The Capcom Fighting Collection has some of the greatest CPS2 and CPS3 titles ever to be released, but this barebones package leaves something to be desired. It’s the best legit way to play these games, but don’t be surprised if it leaves you wanting more – unless you like Darkstalkers.

The single-player in Wasteland 3 runs fine, but the co-op is currently a hot mess. If you plan to play co-op, wait for a few more patches before picking it up.

Borderlands 3 does very little to reinvent itself. It plays it safe, sticking to the tried and tested formula that made the original games such a success. A must-play for fans of the genre and past Borderlands games, but much of the same for anyone else.

If you enjoyed the original game, Jurassic World Evolution 2 is sure to bring you hours of entertainment (not including the “campaign”). However, for players hoping for more than a full priced DLC, disappointment is unavoidable.

WWE 2K26 still represents the best wrestling game on the market today, but it does very little to distinguish itself from last year's release. Combined with egregious monetization and the needlessly mundane grind across nearly every single game mode, and this year simply feels like a step back.

Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble sticks to its roots a little too closely, with its multiplayer mode coming off as more of a bonus than the main attraction. Those that don’t mind the same old song and monkey dance will have fun, but don’t expect anything revolutionary.

Anyone who likes the idea of being a bounty hunter in space will enjoy their time with Rebel Galaxy Outlaw. Just don’t expect the casino to blow you away.

Indivisible is a great game, but it could have been amazing. The lack of weapons, armor, or other collectible items to make exploration worthwhile really makes a lot of the adventure a bit dull, and the repetitive nature of its level design definitely leaves a sour taste. Many of these issues will be off-putting enough for potential players, but if you can look past its seemingly basic design mistakes, Indivisible’s level of charm, passion, and character are rarely seen in the genre.

20XX’s physics are almost a perfect recreation of a certain blue bomber, but the roguelike elements don’t always work as they should. The procedurally generated levels don’t have the same spark as Capcom’s offerings, and its permadeath is an acquired taste.

XCOM: Chimera Squad is a brave adventure into new territory. Featuring a more interesting narrative design, some much-needed changes to combat, and a cast of interesting characters, all of these things would lead to a brilliant game if it weren’t for the myriad of bugs, crashes, and usual XCOM tiring randomness. It’s an absolute must-buy for fans of the genre, especially at its current price, but a bit more time in development wouldn’t have hurt.

WWE 2K19 struggles to meet expectations. It’s a mid-card talent with potential, but is too set in its ways to leave any lasting impact.

BlazBlue: Cross Tag Battle has got the fanservice down, but it feels more like a tribute to Arc System Works’ other games than its own unique beast. Its simplified fighting game mechanics, along with its reused assets, makes it only worth it for the most diehard of fans.

Only the most die-hard fans of the Mana series should consider picking up Trials of Mana. While the remake may be faithful to the original, it doesn’t make for a good game or a good time.

Planet Coaster 2 harbors a level of creativity unmatched in this space. Its attention to detail is so intense, that its biggest challenge is forming a straight path without destroying half the planet. A wonderfully creative playground is available for those with the patience to work through it, but it proves to be a frustratingly cumbersome journey for the rest of us.

Dying Light 2 is so close to being great, but it is held back by a myriad of technical issues. It's fine with friends, but wait for some patches if you intend to fly solo.

Neo Cab is a delightful experience that sometimes trips over itself due to certain design choices. Make sure to check out the demo before purchasing.

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands might as well be an expansion for Borderlands 3. Only fans of Borderlands who can tolerate Tiny Tina should consider this game.

Barring its numerous bugs and shoddy netcode, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game – Complete Edition captures the spirit of the IP quite well. The leveling system makes the title a bit of a cakewalk, but the presentation makes up for its shortcomings.

Ys: Memories of Celceta is a fine port, but there is plenty for room for improvement. Fans of the Ys series should enjoy it; all others should check out some videos beforehand.

Tempest 4000’s time-tested gameplay still rings true, but some of the visual and design elements in this release add some unintended challenge. For what is ultimately an updated quarter-muncher, it has a steep price, but those looking to relive the past in 4K could do far worse than this title.

ONRUSH tries a number of new things with its team-based driving mechanics, and some aspects of this gamble pay off better than others. Its speed and mechanics are sound, but those looking for something a bit more traditional best approach with caution.

Blade Strangers’ unique approach to fisticuffs won’t appeal to everyone, but those looking for something with both depth and accessibility will find it here. It might not be FGC-ready, but it manages to provide a good time for those with an open mind.

Rocket Knight Adventures: Re-Sparked features platforming greats that are absolute must-plays, but the overall package is bare bones. It’s great to see Sparkster and his jetpack make a return, but this awesome opossum deserves so much more.

Doraemon Story of Seasons is a solid farm sim that isn’t for everyone. If you’re interested in the worlds of Doraemon or Story of Seasons, be sure to check out some trailers first.

While Iron Harvest is a fun game, it still has some kinks to work out. For those on the fence, wait for a few patches before checking it out.

Vandals’ puzzle-based antics are perfect for short sessions. With a fair difficulty curve and just the right amount of elements, this is one title worth exploring.

Ultimately, Journey to the Savage Planet is a little less savage and a little more tame. What it does, it does quite well; it's just a shame it doesn't do very much. A decent title for those that get excited at the thought of exploration, but an otherwise unremarkable experience.

Pathfinder: Kingmaker Definitive Edition is a good game marred by technical problems on the PlayStation 4. As it stands, it is difficult to recommend to anyone in its current state.

Warlords of New York can only be recommended to the most diehard of Division fans. Constant bugs, exhausting combat, and a weak main villain leaves much to be desired.

The Swords of Ditto is a charming rogue-lite with a robust challenge. Fans of top-down action-adventure games won’t be disappointed.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a fantastic game that flirts with greatness but falls short of being truly incredible. Longtime fans of the franchise will relish the brutal challenge the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. universe is known for, while newcomers might find the bugs more horrifying than the world itself.

Persona 3: Dancing in Moonlight might not have the largest tracklist in the genre, but the remixed tunes and challenging gameplay ring true. Those that don’t mind a package that is a little on the light side will enjoy mastering its unique playlist.

The Haunted Island, a Frog Detective Game is certainly a unique title, but its quirky humor will only appeal to a select few. Fans of adventure titles best approach this fetch quest with caution.

Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition gives a number of Nintendo classics a new lease on life, but the overall package is a bit light on content. Those who live and breathe the Big N will enjoy this new take on the classics, but there’s not enough for more casual fans to enter the competition.

Fighting EX Layer does not have a lot of options or fighters to choose from, but it does have a lot of heart. A lot of work went into its design, and those looking for a fighter that is a little out of the ordinary should set out to master its unique system.

Pathfinder: Kingmaker is a solid, but flawed, pen-and-paper RPG in video game form. If you are a fan of isometric RPGs or Pathfinder, you will find a lot to like here.

Those who have already had their hearts taken by Persona 5 will enjoy their time with Dancing in Starlight, but those less familiar with the Phantom Thieves may be disappointed at its small song count and lack of extra content.

Need for Speed Heat’s driving is a step in the right direction for a franchise that’s stuck at the back of the pack. However, its poor story, severe balance problems, and complete lack of an online presence stop it from ever reaching top speed.

Sonic Origins is a raw deal, providing little content with questionable edits. The widescreen support, drop dash, and Mission Mode are welcome additions, but they all come at a (steep) price.

While Fist of the North Star: Lost Paradise does have a number of glaring issues, the variety and quality of side content, thrilling combat, and protagonist with an attitude that can rival Kiryu’s, make it a worthwhile experience.

Earth Defense Force 5 doubles down on its B-movie aesthetic to create an experience that is equal parts goofy and fun. The lack of enemy variety leads to some repetition, but those who grew up with cult cinema classics will enjoy taking down this alien menace.

Dead or Alive 6 retains the stellar action the series is known for, but it doesn’t do enough to warrant an immediate upgrade from previous entries. With only a handful of new fighters at launch, more casual fans might want to wait a bit.

Cris Tales isn’t going to set your world on fire, but it proves to be good turn-based RPG comfort food. If you don’t mind titles that drag a bit, this one is for you.

RoboCop: Unfinished Business is another action-filled romp through a beloved universe, although one that struggles to truly set itself apart from its predecessor.

Attack on Titan 2 Final Battle is a tough title to recommend to anyone. It runs poorly, the new targeting system doesn’t work as it should, and the new modes simply aren’t worth the investment. If you still want to give it a shot despite all of this, do yourself a favor and avoid the Switch version.

God Eater 3’s gameplay has some hits and misses, but the overall experience proves to be a solid one. Anyone who likes Monster Hunter should certainly give this one a whirl.

The arcade roots of Clockwork Aquario are proudly on display – for better or worse. While it proves to be a fun side-scrolling romp, it is also far too cheap and short for its own good. This time capsule is still worth a go, but even the staunchest side-scrolling fan should be aware of what they’re getting into.

Cruis’n Blast focuses on style over substance, making the end result feel a bit hollow. Navigating a careening ferris wheel is the stuff action movies are made of, but there’s just not enough content here to justify picking up this home release over sinking a few bucks into the arcade version.

Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey has some good ideas, but the slow pace and repetitive gameplay will wear you down quickly. Watch some gameplay footage before picking this one up.

Taiko no Tatsujin: Drum Session! has rock-solid drumming mechanics and a fair difficulty curve, but the amount of DLC available at launch is a little extreme. Buyer beware – this is one game that will cost completionists a pretty penny.

Watch Dogs: Legion is more of the same, albeit with more technical problems. Even the most diehard of Watch Dogs fans should wait for a patch or two before jumping in.

At this point, you are most likely either in or out when it comes to the series. Warriors Orochi 4 Ultimate is a fun Warriors game, but won’t change your mind on the genre.

Vampyr is a collection of wonderful ideas held back by a limited budget and a dated engine.

Pathologic 2 is a game that will appeal to a very particular type of player, and be despised by everyone else. Those on the fence should scope out the game on either YouTube or Twitch to know what you are getting into.

The soldiers of Contra: Operation Galuga have the right moves for this mission, but the steep cost, short length, and awkward perspectives lead to a less-than-perfect execution.

Fans of The Outer Worlds will be happy with Peril on Gorgon. However, for anyone else, fifteen dollars is far too steep of an asking price.

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered is not for everyone. While its over-the-shoulder action and moody vibes previously established the original as a cult classic, its overly edgy style, poor optimization, and derivative gameplay make this version feel more like a dark shadow compared to the industry great.

Immortals of Aveum is a worthwhile and interesting spin on a genre that is renowned for its lack of drive and innovation. It features an engaging and rewarding combat system backed up by an excellent narrative in a fleshed out and immersive fantasy setting that wouldn't feel at all out of place in a Netflix show.

Blair Witch is a great entry into the genre. Fans of horror games, with a heavy focus on narrative and walking, will find plenty of scares and edge-of-your-seat moments. However, those looking to dive deeper into the narrative of Blair Witch may come away a little disappointed.

While Man of Medan has a decent horror story, a number of technical problems and inconsistencies derail the experience. It's best to wait for a patch or two before purchasing.

While Shou can be a bit difficult to handle, Slave Zero X promises plenty of action for those willing to fight for their bloodlust. Its endless hordes can be a bit of a grind, but those willing to sharpen their swords and cut their teeth will enjoy executing this cannon fodder in style.

Rigid Force Alpha doesn’t commit any cardinal shmup sins, but it doesn’t stand out either. Those looking for the next Gradius or R-Type will find comfort in its familiarity, but the whole experience does not leave a lasting impression.

Oninaki is a fairly traditional action RPG with intriguing characters. The price is a bit steep, but if you liked the studio's previous works, you won't be disappointed.

Those looking for a challenging rhythm game in Pride Run best keep on marching, but RTS fans may get a kick out of its unique management mechanics. Those that can deal with some frustration can experience what is quite possibly the most unique game of the year.

Super Inefficient Golf lives as dies by its mine gimmick, but it is still a fun gimmick nonetheless. Those looking for a way to spice up their golf game can do far worse than this title, but don’t be surprised if it takes a while to get the hang of it.

While Maneater has its problems, it can also be fun once you get used to the combat. However, those on the fence should wait for a patch or two before investing.

Battlefield 2042 has the potential to be a fantastic Battlefield game, but its server problems really put a damper on it. At this point, wait for a couple more patches before checking it out.

Jurassic World Evolution is an okay game. There is plenty of fun to be had testing your ability to create large pens of dinosaurs living in harmony.

Exoprimal was clearly designed to be free-to-play, and much like Capcom’s other competitive multiplayer offerings, I kept trying to find a hook. It’s worth a go on Xbox Game Pass, but this dinosaur just can’t beat the kings of the genre.

Shining Resonance Refrain displays all the qualities one would expect in a JRPG game, albeit in a dated and unimaginative fashion. Fans of the genre will find plenty to sing about, but for those not sold on Japan’s ideals of an RPG, there’s little more here than a solid story and some good dungeon grinding.

Rage 2 is a chaotic, fun, and rewarding adventure that combines a light but interesting narrative with explosive combat and a well-structured open world. It won't blow you off your feet, but you'll have plenty of fun blowing everyone else off theirs.

Although Sword of the Necromancer has some exciting ideas, they never fully pay off. Be sure to check out some gameplay footage first to get a feel of what this roguelike has to offer.

Tron: Identity’s mystery has a strong foundation, but there’s just not enough meat on the bone. There’s a lack of places to go and people to see; this rendition of The Grid looks the part, but it ends up being too one-dimensional due to its short length.

Vampire: The Masquerade - Swansong tells an incredible story, one the player can truly influence, but it falls short in many of the efforts to translate the World of Darkness into video game form. A must-play for fans of the universe, but fans of the narrative-driven RPG may find more frustration than enjoyment.

Just Cause 4 is a fantastic playground of chaos, giving players the tools and creative options to sow seeds of complete mayhem. It’s only when you step away from that mayhem, following the path of the campaign put ahead of you, that you’ll find repetition, lack of character, and a disappointing open world.

The Crew 2 is a vast improvement on the original in every aspect. The environments offer a vast, exciting, and expansive world to explore. The huge variety of racing events, alongside a near endless progression system, promises hours of play time, and the car customization is the best we have seen this generation.

While Atlas Fallen is a perfectly fine game, fine doesn’t quite cut it in 2023. If you’re dying to hunt down Wraiths, wait for a discount first.

Windbound’s visual appeal is sure to lure in players expecting an entirely different experience. That said, I grew to love a game that I initially couldn’t stand. It’s beautiful, charming, captivating, and completely brutal without apology. One of my favorite games of the year so far.

Those invested in the Cthulhu mythos might be interested in the tale found in The Sinking City, but most others should wait until the game is patched.

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl attempts to follow the Super Smash Bros. formula, but it just doesn’t take things far enough. There’s a general lack of polish to its presentation and its physics, making it hard for even the most diehard Nicktoons fan to get engaged. Not even Nigel Thornberry and his smashing antics can save this platform fighter.