Taiko no Tatsujin: Rhythm Festival features a killer setlist, a great difficulty curve, and a splash of flash. While the subscription-based Taiko Music Pass is a questionable addition, this title is well worth a drum solo (or quartet).

An epic platforming challenge awaits all those that brave Abathor’s trials. Those willing to cut their teeth with its “traditional” controls will enjoy taking on this demonic horde.

While BEHEMOTH sets out to hit those oh-so-important dopamine receptors, the end result is far more frustrating than fun. Randomness has its place, but not at the expense of the overall gameplay experience.

Vengeance Hunters pays glorious tribute to the 90s-era of beat-em-ups with fists-a-flying. While the level selection sticks a little too close to genre staples, those looking for some good old-fashioned street justice have found their second coming.

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.

Ultimately, New World: Aeternum is a fantastic MMO, building on the foundations of the greatest games of yesteryear. However, after 60 hours, I’m just not sure if I’ll be returning to the shores of Aeternum anytime soon.

Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines is twice as nice, with pixel-perfect physics between two playable characters. While most enemies don’t put up much of a fight, Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines channels the best platformers for a dog-gone good time.

Throne & Liberty is one of the most impressive and refreshing MMORPG's in years. While it's easy to initially dismiss it as “just another one of those MMOs,” those that dig deeper may come to realize Throne & Liberty is the perfect MMO to bring them back into the fray.

Slackers – Carts of Glory is made up of the concepts of a plan, featuring an interesting idea and stretching it a bit too thin for a full release. The end result feels like a fun minigame, something that is good for a lazy afternoon rather than a skill-based addiction.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a deep, stylish, and rewarding adventure, but it's not for the faint of heart.

While the lack of board variations and crossovers sting, MONOPOLY’s Living Board and perfection of the fundamentals both make this digital release worthy of Mr. Monopoly himself.

Racing fans, arcade aficionados, and those with a need for speed, rejoice: Victory Heat Rally was made for you. Its drifting system is not for everyone, but those always on the hunt for the perfect time will have a blast shaking and baking.

Night Slashers: Remake is more lifeless than its undead horde, taking the charm of the cult classic beat-em-up and burying it six feet under. For those looking to throw down, look back to the original release of Night Slashers – this remake’s not worth saving.

With its unique blend of strategy, survival, and city building, Frostpunk 2 stands as one of the best titles of 2024.

FAIRY TAIL: Beach Volleyball Havoc lives up to its title with plenty of havoc, but this fanservice-laden sports title isn’t quite an ace. Fans of the time-tested series will appreciate its chaos, but don’t expect to spend too much time on its shimmering sands.

Parking Garage Rally Circuit channels raw thrills to create something truly magnificent. For those always on the hunt for the perfect line, Parking Garage Rally Circuit’s speed, challenge, and aesthetics help this arcade racer fly sky-high.

The Plucky Squire oozes creativity and charm on every page. It stands aside Balatro and Animal Well as one of the best indie games of the year.

While the changes are minimal, Dead Rising Deluxe Remastered shambling undead have never looked better. Fans of the original and newcomers alike will find plenty of zombie-slaying fun.

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics manages to make a name for itself with an impeccable way to play as Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and World Warriors.

Taking elements from the best MetroidVanias, retro shooters, and anime series, Yars Rising delivers a truly immersive experience with mass appeal.

Hardened Warhammer fans finally have the ultimate Space Marine experience with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. Gory, bloody, and brutally entertaining combat stands at the forefront of Space Marine 2, delivering one of the most immersive Warhammer worlds to date.

Massive Entertainment created breathtaking environments across the galaxy, delivered a fast-paced combat system true to the scoundrel style, and crafted a story that rivals the modern movies. Star Wars Outlaws is, simply put, the Star Wars game of a generation.

Love, Ghostie is more treat than trick, bringing together time management, good vibes, and dad jokes into a lovable package.

From its clever puzzles to its suspenseful horror, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Into the Pit provides a compelling case to dive into the pit. For those who don’t mind a bit of backtracking, Into the Pit is a standout entry in the Five Nights at Freddy’s series.

Creatures of Ava is a heartwarming love letter to the action-adventure games of old. A captivating tale of empathy and reflection, its story will leave you pondering its teaching moments long after the credits roll. This title is pure charm, hampered only by a number of shallow features that feel like they don't belong.

Fans of the SteamWorld series will be happy with Heist 2. If you like steam bots and robot pirates – and who doesn’t? – pick this one up.

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.

The Star Named EOS’ world building is at the top of its class, turning the genre on its head with camera in hand. For those willing to piece things together and live in the moment, this title’s mystery – and its many puzzles – are just waiting to be explored.

SNK vs. Capcom: SVC Chaos might not be the match of the millennium, but it still promises a good time. The team at Code Mystics has set out to make sure this crossover is the definitive version of the title.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is one of those games that will have you going back for one more quick level. If you’re still on the fence, check out the demo and get yourself hooked.

Anger Foot’s fast and frantic pace is just what the podiatrist ordered. Though its bite-sized levels and twitchy gameplay aren’t for everyone, those who like to go on the offensive and nail the perfect run will enjoy stepping foot in this new territory.

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.

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.

Luigi’s Mansion 2 HD is well worth a play for those looking for sheer charm and puzzling adventures in equal measure; just don’t expect too many new twists and turns as you bust ghosts in the moonlight.

Anya Forger’s adventures in SPY×ANYA: Operation Memories are well worth the time of any secret agent. While we wish there were more minigames, SPYxFAMILY fans shouldn’t hesitate to go out on this ooting.

Shadow of the Erdtree is the perfect Swan Song to Elden Ring. It gives you all the challenge, the loot, and the lore of the base game in a smaller chunk. Prepare to lose yourself to its siren call yet again.

Nightmare Kart is positively dreamy, channeling the best kart racers to create something truly divine. While the emphasis on combat might lead to some unnecessary chaos, its addictive blend of speed and offense makes it worthy of all Hunters.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is a classic example of the old mantra: get past the start, and you’ll love it. If you have Xbox Game Pass, you have no reason not to try this game.

Read Only Memories: NEURODIVER provides a fantastic futuristic experience that we were all too eager to dive into. While we would have appreciated more runway with its brief tale, ES88’s hunt for the Golden Butterfly is well worth a trip down memory lane.

Eiyuden Chonricle: Hundred Heroes is exactly what Suikoden fans have been asking for. Fans of old-school JRPGs or games about recurring characters shouldn't hesitate to check it out.

While Lunar Lander Beyond requires a delicate touch, the feeling that comes from mastering a perfect run and ship-shape crew cannot be beat. For the management fiends and skill-driven fans among us, get ready to kick the tires and light the fires during this Cosmic Event.

Spirit City: Lofi Sessions is a fantastic (and pun-tastic) tool that dishes out good vibes as players knock out their tasks. While the title could use more customization options, we enjoyed getting down to business in its cozy world.

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.

Taking inspiration from a little green elf, Minishoot’ Adventures combines bullet hells and exploration to create something truly unique. This title might not be the toughest or most compex title on the market, but the feedback loop between combat and exploration kept us captivated.

Variety is the spice of life in Million Monster Militia, providing sheer chaos with its synergies. While it takes some getting used when it comes to what goes where, those hankering for a good roguelike deckbuilder will enjoy positively obliterating these titans.

A short-but-sweet art piece, Unleaving leaves a lasting impression that truly immerses players in its artistic world. For those feeling a little lost, be sure to take this journey.

Pepper Grinder is anything but a grind, letting players drill through land, sea, and air with relative ease. While we would have loved to see more content – and more bosses in particular – this title proves that it’s the pirate’s life for us.

South Park Snow Day is a fun game that is a perfect fit for Game Pass or PlayStation Plus. I'd wait until it hits one of those services before checking it out.

Unicorn Overlord might be an early GOTY contender for me. Fans of strategy games should download the demo and play it immediately.

Arzette: The Jewel of Faramore is a bit lost. Its attempt to channel the energy of a certain duology of titles is too self-aware to resonate with its target audience. Meanwhile, those looking for a grand adventure won’t appreciate its gaudy design and plodding gameplay. As a result, this Philips CD-i tribute is only suited for a very specific few.

Dragon's Dogma 2 feels like the first proper RPG I've played in years. Its world is captivating, filled with stories both told and waiting to be found. This is a must-play for RPG fans who've grown tired of the hand-holding nature of modern games and just want to get lost somewhere magical and quite frankly, brutal as hell.

Berzerk Boy's platforming action manages to eclipse its inspiration, leading to an experience that is an absolute must for fans of the genre.

Anyone who is a fan of playing a supernatural detective will enjoy The Thaumaturge. Its dark atmosphere, engaging story, and tactical combat will keep you coming back for more.

Ultimately, WWE 2K24 is the single best wrestling game on the market today, and the best one in decades. Building on the already solid foundations of WWE 2K23, the in-ring action is smooth and rewarding, the flurry of game modes offers a little something for everyone, and the Wrestlemania Showcase retells some of WWE’s most iconic stories in new and exciting ways.

Penny’s Big Breakaway proves that the art of busking is never easy, but it is always worth it. Those that can wrangle Penny and Yo-Yo’s tricks – and not get caught up in the strings – will enjoy going around the world for a high score.

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.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth marks the very best in class across practically every element of game design for the Final Fantasy franchise, but I still couldn't help but feel I was bidding farewell to an old friend.

Deathwish Enforcers Special Edition is a true love letter to 70s movies, 90s arcade run-and-guns, and countless pop culture legends. While players will have to take on the syndicate locally, Deathwish Enforcers Special Edition is a modern-day throwback classic.

While a bit light on content, GUNVOLT RECORDS Cychronicle pulls from the greatest rhythm games to create something worthy of The Azure Striker. For those who can’t get enough idols - or catchy bops - this title is all too happy to make sure one’s concert is a big success.

If you can stomach the rough seas of the early game, Skull & Bones has a bounty of live-service content on offer. The end-game mechanics and loot loop rely completely and entirely on the combat system that, thankfully, is one that delivers with every firing of a cannon. Taking over towns and cities, conquering trade routes, climbing the leaderboards – Skull & Bones is a thrilling ride. It’s just a shame that it can take 30-40 hours to get there.

For those that don’t mind a bare-bones package, FixEight and its run-and-gun action is a bona fide arcade hit that is well worth the attention of any classic gamer.

While this release of Vimana is arcade-perfect, it does prove to be a bit light on content. Those looking for their next one-credit-clear will enjoy this space showdown, but more casual fans might be left in the lurch.

While the Steam version still has some bugs that need to be ironed out, UNDER NIGHT IN-BIRTH II Sys:Celes provides a number of great reasons to visit the Hollow Night in what is the most robust roster to date.

TEKKEN 8 hits hard with what could quite possibly be the best TEKKEN entry to date. Fresher than newcomer Azucena’s signature coffee blend, this title does everything in its power to make this King of Iron Fist tournament worthy of all players.

Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League is a great game for a certain type of player, having all the hallmarks of a fantastic single-player cinematic experience. It features a great story, excellent voice acting, beautiful environments, and captivating characters, but it all feels cut short to service this live-service model. I had a lot of fun playing through, and I’ll likely dive more into the end-game grind. Still, I still can’t help but ask: What if?

While it takes a while to get going, Granblue Fantasy: Relink is well worth the wait. Fans of quick-paced co-op action RPGs shouldn't hesitate to check it out.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown is a beacon of hope for a franchise that's been gone for far too long. Fans of the series will be happy with this series' new direction.

2024 picks up right where 2023 left off with a banger of a title in Like A Dragon Infinite Wealth. Anyone who likes big, meaty RPGs should give this one a whirl.

Forgive the obvious pun, but Sonic Dream Team is a dream come true for Sonic fans. While it runs a bit on the short side, those looking for some classic high speed Sonic action will welcome this homecoming.

Alan Wake II manages to subvert expectations with its immersive world. Combat gets the job done, but it’s the overall mystery that will have players eager to shine a light on this Dark Place.

Even with the bugs, Warhammer 40K fans will enjoy Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader immensely. If you are a tactics RPG fan looking for your next fix, this is your game.

Wave 6 of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe’s Booster Course Pass continues to bring more great tracks and characters to the game, but some odd choices prevent it from taking first place. Mario Kart fans will have an absolute blast, but more casual players will rue the day they ever came across Rosalina’s Ice World.

Radiant Silvergun is one of the best shmups of all time, and Live Wire’s release manages to capture Treasure’s treasure in the best light. For those who have yet to dive into its intricate world, this is a must play.

For The King 2 is the perfect sequel. It takes the very best components of its predecessor and uses those time-tested elements to raise the series to new heights. To put it simply, For The King 2 is one of the best strategy-based co-op experiences on the market today.

Achilles: Legends Untold brings history’s strongest warrior to video games in epic fashion. Fans of Soulslikes – or action RPGs in general – shouldn’t hesitate to pick it up.

RoboCop Rogue City pays homage to its source material like no other. A faithful recreation of a beloved character and world over 30 years in the making. At its core, it’s a fantastic over-the-top 80s action shooter but dig a little deeper and you’ll find a dark, dystopian tale of man and machine more relevant today than ever.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder once again proves that Mario is the king of the platforming genre. Much like his previous adventures did before, the amount of creativity and polish on display sets a new industry standard.

Wildmender is one of those cozy farm games that you can lose yourself in for hours; just don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated.

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is an absolutely thrilling game, providing a hefty amount of challenge and the tools needed to grow and overcome any threats. Take up this call from Handler Walter - he’s got a new job for you.

While I still think Forza Horizon is the better series, there is no denying Forza Motorsport has the best driving around. Racing fans should pick up Game Pass and give it a go.

Mirage is the Assassin’s Creed many have been waiting for. It pays homage to its roots, bringing with it the challenge and satisfaction of a well-planned and executed stealth assault. It effortlessly blends together the old-school approach with updated design philosophies, a deeper and more immersive game world, and a story that enthralls from start to finish.

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a great palate cleanser after all the massive games of 2023. Fans of either the Fate series or Musou games shouldn’t hesitate to check this one out.

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is a tale of redemption in its purest form. No rubbish, no corpo spin, dedication, passion, and determination to deliver on promises made long ago. The team at CD Projekt Red may have taken a rough road to get here, but now they can rest easy. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty is finally, the game we all hoped it would be.

Lies of P is a fantastic gothic Soulslike that is worth playing even during this hectic game season. Pick it up if you want a game that will bite back.

Simply put, Starfield is Bethesda’s greatest-ever RPG. The living, breathing universe they have created is one of the most impressive in the gaming space and the sound effects and musical score push the immersion to near perfection. If only I didn’t have to speak to the back of NPCs head.

Mortal Kombat 1 delivers one of the most impressive and exciting storylines I've ever experienced in this genre. The voice acting, the facial animations, everything comes together in near-perfect harmony. Fighting is fun, challenging, and rewarding every step of the way. Mortal Kombat 1 is brutally brilliant, and probably the best Mortal Kombat game I've ever played.

Even in the hectic year that is 2023, I still enjoyed AK-Xolotl. With a demo on Steam, AK-Xolotl is a no-brainer to try for action roguelike fans.

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.

Raiden III x MIKADO MANIAX is a decent shmup, but it doesn’t do enough to differentiate itself from the trailblazers of the genre. This edition also proves to be a bit light on modes, meaning that all but the most diehard of fans should check this one out.

Prison City might cop Snake Plissken’s style, but this side-scrolling adventure proves that there is room for a new grizzled hero. While it provides a hefty challenge, those looking to the futuristic year of 1997 will have a blast.

The Dimension Shellshock DLC for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge makes an already great beat-em-up even better, providing plenty of ways to flex one’s fighting chops – just be ready for a challenge.

Sea of Stars sets itself apart with its unique look, relaxing vibes, engaging gameplay. Not only is it a great indie RPG, but it also currently sits at the top of my indie GOTY list.

Little Man Has a Day ends up feeling a little “eh” itself, being a little too quirky for most audiences. When paired with its short runtime and lack of purpose, it can feel like this title is in its own kind of funk.

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.

Combining the world of puzzle games with platformers is an interesting proposition, but UFO: Unidentified Falling Objects manages to keep players engaged with intuitive controls, plenty of unlockables, and countless reasons to come back.

Acceptance covers some serious topics, but its combat makes it feel more like a shallow game than something with a deeper message. Everything is a bit heavy handed, and as a result feels a bit more surface level than anything else.

Between its humor and its off-the-wall action, Moving Out 2 is sure to be a hit at one’s next shindig. Those flying solo will have fun, but be sure to bring a friend or three along to get the best Smooth Moves experience.

Sclash offers an interesting concept that boils action down to its most basic elements, but its cliche story and short runtime make it an easy pass.