Although Beat Souls features a kaleidoscope of color and a wealth of anime girls, the music and action of this rhythm game are far too tame for their own good. It provides an interesting twist on the genre, but it will leave players feeling like something is missing.

Bullet Hell Monday: Black has the bullets and challenge, but this danmaku focuses more on flash than substance. There’s just too much to process, leading to an unnecessary handicap more casual fans will have a hard time overcoming.

Cyberpunk 2077 is a great game, but it could have been an incredible game that defined a generation. Instead, it falls victim to its own ambition and the industry’s constant desire to push, push, push it out. In its current state, it’s not for the faint of heart, and even hardcore Cyberpunk fans may struggle to stay interested amidst all the crashes and issues. If you have yet to pick it up, wait a few months and you could very well be treated to the experience we were all hoping for at launch.

It’s Kooky’s object finding shenanigans are certainly silly, but it is far too simplistic for its own good. Those looking for a challenge best stick with Waldo’s adventures.

Deneb: Across the Stars has the framework needed to be a speedrunning sensation, but its brutal difficulty will only appeal to the hardest of the core. Those looking to brave the wild unknown best bring some patience.

Alice in Stardom is a lighthearted visual novel that will appear for those looking for something a bit more sugary. Don’t expect a big budget or a tome of text – rather, come in with an open mind and you’ll come out satisfied.

From Head to Toe does a fair job at setting up an intimate atmosphere, but the lack of context in its script and unpolished design somewhat take away from the title.

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.

Moonleap’s day-night premise has merit, but this puzzle-platformer is far too simple and short to make a lasting impact.

Those looking for an arcade-like score chaser will certainly find what they’re looking for with WRITHE, but the lack of balance will be a deal-breaker for some. Hardened FPS vets looking to fight against the odds should take up arms, while the more green among us should approach with caution.

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.

Tex-Mechs’ combination of mechs and bugs will appeal to gamers the world over, but the cumbersome combat and lack of impact prevent it from being a smash hit.

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.

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.

Terrawurm is a structurally sound arcade-like title, but its overly simplistic design hampers its replayability. It’s fun for what it is, but don’t expect to be engaged in the long term.

Fly Punch Boom: First Impact! is chock-full of pure kinetic energy, but the rock-paper-scissors-style combat doesn’t quite read the room. There is plenty of over-the-top action to be found here, but don’t be surprised if you feel there’s a bit too much luck involved with its proceedings.

The Cooking Class’ dive into survival horror is a mixed bag. Those that enjoy stumbling around for clues will enjoy visiting the DuPont family, but those less inclined to stumbling around will lack an appetite for this title.

Although it is not the most polished game around, Aery – Calm Mind manages to provide a relaxing experience free of danger and worry. Those looking to zone out a bit will enjoy hitting the skies, but those seeking out something meatier best approach with caution.

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.

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.

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.

Shadow Fencer Theatre is a quirky title, in more ways than one. Its aesthetics are truly charming, but the gameplay proves to be a bit too awkward for its own good.

Squidlit is overly simplistic by design, which somewhat works against it. Those that don’t mind a short adventure will enjoy inking their way through its whimsical world, but those looking for something meatier might be disappointed.

The narrative of The Night Fisherman sets the stage for something great, but the short length and illusion of choice lacks the follow-through to really make an impact.

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.

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.

Astrality does some interesting things with the rail shooter formula in the form of its meter, but the awkward shooting is like walking and chewing bubble gum at the same time. Those that can tolerate a bit of awkwardness will dig this interstellar adventure.

In The Rural Village Of Nagoro has plenty of character, but sadly does not have the substance to match. This walking sim ends up telling players the plot, rather than actively showing it through gameplay. It’s a fascinating vignette, but be ready to do some digging if you’re looking to learn more.