Rayman: 30th Anniversary Edition is a fantastic way to catch up on a pivotal piece of platforming history across various, well-emulated retro platforms, all enhanced by numerous handy quality-of-life features. While these features aren't available in every version (the MS-DOS release, for instance, lacks the rewind function) they make progressing through the supported games significantly easier. The interactive documentary also deserves praise for offering interesting insight into the game's development. The biggest drawbacks remain the absence of the original soundtrack (the replacement is fine though) and the fact that not every edition of the original game is included; Rayman Classic is missing, as is the level editor from Rayman Designer.

With the release of and Roger on the Switch 2, the charming and devastating interactive novel can reach even more interested players. Even though the overall experience is a short one, the emotional resonance is deep. We would recommend everyone to go into it with as little of the story spoiled as possible to experience this gem organically. And Roger still is a little gem of a game and should be experienced by everyone at least once.

33 Immortals has a fascinating concept that it delivers in a fun and engaging way. The MMO-lite approach paired with a neat setting make for a couple of very entertaining hours of gameplay. Unfortunately there isn’t too much overall content and the progression of your character as a whole almost comes to a complete stop after those first few hours. If you always wanted to kill bosses with up to 32 other players without the time investment of an MMO then this is the perfect game for a relatively cheap price.

Even if Junkster doesn't break new ground, the endearing 3D platformer successfully blends a modern building mechanic with retro-feeling platforming. It unfortunately doesn't quite feel like it reaches the full potential of any of its level ideas, but instead often chooses to play things a little more safely and predictably. Because of that it remains very accessible, but less appealing for a more mature audience. It's perfect for families and thanks to cleverly designed levels offers replay value for collection enthusiasts.

Team Asano has done it again: their blend of 2D HD graphics and retro gameplay creates an irresistible treasure trove that you won’t be able to put down until you’ve played through every last bit. Any minor quirks are easily overlooked.

Copa City stands out with its original concept and detailed micro-management, but a clunky interface and awkward controls often get in the way. Some mechanics also feel too shallow, especially when it comes to satisfying fan needs. Still, the combination of stadium operations, marketing, logistics and fan-zone planning can be rewarding. Fans of complex management games should give it a look, while those expecting a traditional football manager may be disappointed.

EA Sports UFC 6 delivers an authentic and highly entertaining MMA experience. Its deep combat system rewards skill and strategy, while new accessibility options help newcomers find their footing. Although the career mode remains somewhat repetitive and veterans may miss bigger innovations, UFC 6 successfully captures the intensity and spectacle of the sport.

On the one hand, R-Type Tactics 1&2 Cosmos impresses with a wide variety of units and scenarios, an interesting story – which even branches out in the second installment – solid English voice acting, a visually appealing graphical overhaul, three playable factions, and the addition of the Cosmos campaign. On the other hand, the overall package feels somewhat dated in certain areas. The interface has seen only marginal modernization, there is still no tutorial meaningfully integrated into the gameplay, key quality-of-life features like an "undo move" function are missing, and the AI’s behavior isn't always logical – at times, it even attacks its own units. Furthermore, the multiplayer modes from the original games are absent. Nevertheless, those willing to overlook these flaws will experience many challenging battles set against a truly iconic backdrop.

Voidling Bound manages to blend a retro feel with elements of modern game design. The gameplay systems have surprising depth, which isn't really taken advantage of in fairly simplistic combat encounters. It's a game that's highly entertaining for a few hours, but fizzles out after the novelty wears off.

Crushed in Time is a charming meta point-and-click adventure sending Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson on a hilarious journey through time and game development. With clever puzzles, a solid hint system and a fully voiced cast in delightful British English, it balances accessibility and challenge well. A save-game bug slightly dampens the experience, but the witty humour and elastic gameplay make it well worth the trip.

Unrailed 2: Back on Track is even more fun than the already very entertaining first part. The gameplay is simple and very approachable but almost always ends up in complete and utter chaos (which we mean in the absolute best way possible). The many new, small and big, improvements to the gameplay itself as well as the overall progression through the game are very welcome and make Back on Track a super exciting game to play with friends either locally or online. If you are going to play this by yourself then you will have a better time than you had with “Unrailed” cause the singleplayer mode was also improved but this will never reach the always great chaos of playing with friends.

Terrinoth - Heroes of Descent is an all-round good tactical strategy game with diverse characters and gameplay depth. The 20 dungeons have replay value on various difficulties, which change the gameplay enough to provide new challenges. Unfortunately, the story is very light, so role-playing gamers won’t find much here. For everyone else, Terrinoth - Heroes of Descent provides short and sweet dungeon crawling missions, which can be enjoyed alone or with friends.

Gothic 1 Remake is one of the most confident games of the year. It does not compromise on the 2001 vision of giving the reigns to the player and has next to no guidance through a merciless and unforgiving world. This leads to a gameplay experience that is perfect for some, but off-putting for others, but the promise of making the original Gothic accessible through large and small changes, most notably the presentation of the game, is thoroughly fulfilled.

The game is a heavyweight even on the Switch 2. It doesn’t disappoint in terms of content or gameplay, and the noticeable downgrade in graphics is made up for by the ability to embark on adventures on the go with Cloud and friends. Even those who already own the PS5 version will find a good reason to pick up the new edition for the Nintendo console.

Mina the Hollower achieves the impossible by picking up the mantle of one of the most beloved independent games in recent history, while also being brave enough to diverge from the familiar path. The excellent blend of modern and retro, packed tightly with secrets and rounded off with obvious and sincere love for all of gaming's history makes for a game that everyone should at least give a try.

Overall Echo Generation 2 is a very interesting and well made follow-up. The gameplay offers a nice blend of RPG and deckbuilder that doesn’t leave story or style behind for the pure mechanics. The often switching characters you are in control of are both a strength and a weakness though. On one hand it offers many different gameplay styles and mechanics in a very compact package. On the other hand, it makes the game seem less focused overall. The almost complete lack of tutorials or hints also make this a very hard sell for people who mostly wanna play for the story or the vibes because despite its looks the game offers a lot of customisation and depth.

If you are looking for a pixel RPG that focuses more on story and less on gameplay, Meg's Monster is a captivating option, a game that strives from the usual narrative path to great effect.

With its constantly changing game mechanics, Gambonanza ensures that even chess veterans regularly encounter situations that feel fresh because they just cannot happen in a regular game of chess. If you have any love for the game of kings, this chess roguelike is definitely worth checking out.

007 First Light is a confident and stylish debut for IO Interactive’s take on James Bond. Strong stealth gameplay, varied missions and a compelling origin story capture the spirit of 007 beautifully. While some combat and driving sections feel less polished, the overall package delivers exactly what a Bond adventure should: cinematic, thrilling and effortlessly cool.

Thick as Thieves raises an interesting question about the worth of games. Because simply measured by the hours you can play and the craftsmanship that’s on display, Thick as Thieves is worth its small asking price. Yet it does not feel like a good deal, because after the first two hours you’ll have seen most of what the game has to offer. The few additional ideas the game hermetically seals behind grinding away at repetitive missions. It’s got the potential to bloom into something interesting, but right now it’s a proof of concept that’s unfortunately marketed to a very saturated co-op gaming market.

Battlestar Galactica: Scattered Hopes is a love letter to a franchise that’s been criminally underrepresented in the gaming world. This roguelike blends together the moral dilemmas that make the series so memorable with nail-biting RTS battles. While not all elements land equally, the whole package is well worth it for both fans of the franchise as well as those looking for their next rogue-like itch.

Schrodinger's Cat Burglar is a charming fusion of the cuteness of Stray and the cerebral puzzling of Portal. It blends those elements seamlessly together into a charming and very accessible package without compromising the thoughtful design of its puzzle rooms. The addition of a local cooperative mode makes it an easy recommendation for any families or couples wanting to spend a few rainy afternoons.

Yoshi and the Mysterious Book has turned out to be an exceptionally relaxed platformer with a creative, exploration-focused approach. The graphics are lovely, the levels are varied, and there is plenty of optional content to discover. However, those looking for a gameplay challenge will find little to satisfy them here.

Legacy of the Dark Knight skillfully blends the signature style and humor of the Lego games with numerous gameplay elements borrowed from Rocksteady's Batman: Arkham series. The result is a truly excellent action-adventure – and so far one of the best Lego titles released by TT Games.

A gorgeous and content-packed open-world racer that perfectly captures the spirit of Japan. Forza Horizon 6 may not reinvent the series, but Playground Games once again delivers one of the best arcade racing experiences on the market.

Outbound successfully blends cozy exploration, light survival mechanics and creative base-building into a relaxing road-trip adventure. While the overwhelming amount of crafting stations and the slow early-game pacing can occasionally hurt the flow, the beautiful art style, satisfying progression loop and charming camper customization create a unique and atmospheric experience for fans of the genre.

Directive 8020 delivers entertaining sci-fi horror with strong atmosphere, improved gameplay flow and impressive presentation. However, its predictable story, simplistic mechanics and weak German voice acting prevent Supermassive Games from reaching the heights of its best interactive horror experiences.

Mixtape absolutely nails what it's trying to do. It is a nostalgic but timeless story about growing up, what music can mean to us and how life usually finds a way to throw a wrench into our best laid plans. The game might not be challenging and offers virtually no replay value but instead is best played in one or two big sessions to be immersed into its world and characters.