While it might not appeal to everyone, Vacuum Pilot gives speed freaks their new addiction. The mouse-based control scheme and momentum mechanics take some getting used to, but there is most certainly genius in its simplicity.

Though INVAXION’s gameplay does not shake up the rhythm game genre, the amount of options available is second to none. Those willing to cut their teeth will find a challenging title that pays tribute to the greats.

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.

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.

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.

BALLYGON’s tribute to SEGA’s Super Monkey Ball might border on plagiarism, but it has got the physics and overall action down to a science. Those that don’t mind a package lacking an aesthetic charm will enjoy its roly-poly action.

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.

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.

Despite its claims, There is No Game is a solid enough game that does a fine job breaking the fourth wall. Its short length hinders the possibility of multiple playthroughs, but those who have a passion for cheeky humor will dig its vibe.

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 PC-98 stylings, along with its strong character development, help The Great Voyage stand out. Though it is far too brief, this tale of life at sea is worth exploring.

Give It Up! Plus is brutal, unforgiving, and addictive. Levels start to blend together after a while, but those wrapped up in the beat will be too enthused to care.

Shudder’s score-based gameplay is easy to learn, yet hard to master. Though this package is somewhat barebones, its reliance on defense as well as offense help to give it an alluring quality that encourages replayability.

ERI might look like a simple platformer, but its genius lies in its simplicity. Finding the perfect trajectory is more fun than you’d expect it to be, and even though it’s a short title, it is still worth a go for fans of the genre.

There’s not much to Hike Trip, but there doesn’t need to be. For those who enjoy relaxing during a real life hike, Hike Trip manages to hit that same vein. It might be difficult to ask a gamer to enjoy the journey more than the destination, but those with an open mind that are willing to tune out for a respite will have a good time here.

The core elements of fishy are sound, but this visual novel is far too short for its own good. Finding one’s confidence makes for a great tale, but players just don’t have enough time to connect in this aquatic world.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Combining rhythm and puzzle games together is a strange combination, but Agent Klutz pulls off its mission with relative ease. The short length and repeating levels take away from its longevity, but it is still worth an initial playthrough for all would-be secret agents.

Divination’s cyberpunk stylings create a captivating world of depression and grief, but the grammatical errors and short length hinder its long term appeal.

National Park Girls successfully manages to combine slice of life antics with a truly unique concept. Though it skews on the side of cute, what is here is a solid (if brief) visual novel that will appeal to fans of the genre.

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.

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.