An agreeable adventure that's transformed into something special by its enchanting aesthetic.

It might not have the bells and whistles of the console versions or its PC predecessors, but this smaller colony is quite at home on the DS.

There's a lot to love in Gears Tactics. The ebb and flow of the action is strong enough that it can be easy enough to overlook its flaws, but they are still there – present and accounted for. It's a game desperately in need of a little variety; perhaps the same can be said of the core franchise games too, but it's particularly noticeable when there's a degree of separation between a command and the resulting action.

Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes rides a great hybrid battle system while barely slowing down for its beloved characters.

Madden’s detractors often, and incorrectly, refer to its annual release as a “roster update.” Madden NFL 25 is anything but; it’s better than last season’s solid effort, and when compared to releases from two and three years ago is light years ahead in terms of on-field quality and off-field activities.

The rippling effects of the Espionage system, Religion's modifications to the early and mid-game, and the abundance of changes and other bits of new content more than justify the price of the expansion. While it might feel a little lackluster in the short term, the amount of variation it will add to the hundreds of more hours we plan on putting into Civilization V will undoubtedly prove worthwhile.

If you like your RPGs old school, yet approachable in their difficulty, you can’t do much better than this.

Fire Emblem Engage resurrects the weapon triangle to great effect, making the turn-based combat feel like a game of death and dares, while an unmemorable cast of characters and an unexplored world sadly drag behind it.

Watch Dogs’ interconnected world is a wonderful, explosive, high-tech playground. Shame the people who inhabit it are so forgettable.

It's a tough act to pull off, but The WarChiefs manages to walk that fine line between familiarity and new material quite well. Age of Empires III veterans are going to love it.

Bayonetta Origins shows a great new side of the Umbral Witch, in a tale that's heartwarming as it is enjoyable. Combat and puzzles are a great one-two punch, but Cereza's restricted role and Cheshire's unfaltering nature undermine a little of the former.

Far better than any other flight game on the 360 - and it also happens to be a technical showcase for HDTV fanatics everywhere.

When Sleeping Dogs grabs hold of you it absolutely refuse[s] to let go. You'll be amazed by the sheer amount of content, and how compelled you'll be to consume every drop of it. You'll want to unlock every costume, complete every side mission, and play until there isn't a single drop of Hong Kong left for you to see.

Lego Marvel Super Heroes couldn’t slay all of its technical villains, but there’s plenty of fun to be had despite those shortcomings. How often do you get to control legendary Marvel superheroes in an urban sandbox, flying around and destroying things as you please?

Bully's still a captivating, cartoonish adventure that packs a ton of activity into its deceptively small world, and it's still a lot of fun to run around dodging prefects and thwacking preppies with a slingshot.

They still do too little to attract non-fans to the series, but for the vast crowd who have already been taken in by its charms, B&W2 will be yet another excuse to catch 'em all.

The resulting chaos is entertaining, if not a bit over-stimulating. With creative level designs and tons of playable characters to unlock, Rocket Riot offers hours of explosive-fueled enjoyment before the fun starts to wane.

With its smooth and charming anime visuals, solid story, and deep monster battling and raising, Digimon Story: Time Stranger feels like an excellent evolution that stands alongside greats like Pokemon, Persona, and Final Fantasy. If the Digimon games keep going in this direction, the series may finally get its rightful recognition and a firm place on the monster-collecting genre map.

A fun - if entirely too short - music game with loads of personality and great tunes. It's just overpriced.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon iterates on the excellent hybrid action and turn-based combat that's defined the last few entries, continuing to evolve beyond Metaphor ReFantazio's own take. Yet, frustrating pacing in this JRPG epic's pivotal entry makes it one that only the most ardent and patient fans are likely to see through for now.

Complemented with a solid plot and gameplay that finds a steady medium between strategy and action, Anomaly is a clever game that is sure to draw in tower defense fans. It's a very interesting twist and breathes new life into what was quickly becoming a tired genre.

While it brings some undeniable improvements to the series, Revelations feels like one step forward, two steps back. Its gameplay and multiplayer are still fantastic, but they come at the expense of a lackluster storyline and a shorter overall experience. Instead of being the exclamation point at the end of Ezio's story, Revelations feels more like an ellipsis.

A great game, and a fantastic addition to your collection that nicely compliments the more cartoony, fantasy world of Advance Wars.

The game looks the part, but pieces of it just aren't right. The presentation, for instance, is beautiful, but baffling (the play selection menus are downright terrible). It'll get the starting job eventually, but Madden next-gen, like Bills second-year QB J.P. Losman, still has to bow to the veterans.

Its generation-long strengths hold true, and just about prevail over an increasingly cynical microtransaction creep. My Career’s jump to an open-world setting throws a new gauntlet down to the rest of sports gaming.

An expertly crafted game that boasts stylish, nigh-endless permutations of a simple, engrossing form of stealth.

An excellent realisation of a brilliant pitch, Dredge nails its core ideas and never strays too far from what makes it great. Progression means that later chapters struggle to maintain the early game's impeccably creepy vibes, but this is still one of the tightest indie creations I've played in a long time.

Even with the hypersensitive shot controls, we think this year’s FIFA may match up evenly with Konami’s latest counterpart, due out later this fall (we hear your cries of blasphemy, "Winning Eleven" fanatics - you'll get the chance to prove us wrong).

Even if you've already played the 3DS version, Mighty Switch Force: Hyper Drive Edition is a fantastic title that all Wii U owners should check out.

Check your 2D-hating attitude at the door, and lock and load to experience the absolute pinnacle of a genre.

With a refreshingly unique aesthetic, well-written story, and challenging gameplay, The Banner Saga is an excellent adventure well worth your time.

With the long-overdue additions of a story-creation mode and an online community, SvR2010 is a massive step forward for the series’ already-rich feature set, while still continuing the steady improvement of its in-ring fundamentals.

Of all the episodes so far, Moai Better Blues comes closest to hitting the bizarre, pulp-fiction-y tones of the original Sam & Max comics, with a bigger emphasis on random spurts of cartoon silliness and fewer desperate stabs at hit-or-miss wackiness.

With a whopping 400 quests total, it's amazing that the gameplay never gets stale during the 100+ hours it's going to take you to complete A2.

Reanimal is an enjoyably disturbing horror fairy tale full of beautifully designed scenarios, landscapes and creatures that just doesn't quite bring itself together as a whole.

Performance problems aside, Subnautica will rekindle your faith in the overcrowded survival genre, and scare you senseless.

The battle system is still addictively fun, the multifaceted story is riveting, and the graphics are amazing... we couldn't ask for much more.

The best way to experience what DSII has to offer is through co-operative mode - you can play the entire game's storyline with other people. There's nothing more enjoyable than storming a dungeon with a party of your friends.

In Japan there's a miniature control pad that slots over PSP and includes 'proper' diagonals, but until it comes out over here, this is simply a slightly-too-tricky version of one of the greatest fighters ever.

Along with the gameplay, the series' normally hit-or-miss sense of humor is improving. Even though some of the political gags are a little stale, the Dr. Strangelove-style black comedy vibe won us over, as did Max's free-form, megalomania-tinged debates against a towering robo-Lincoln.

It's mostly there - the charm, the gameplay, the visual presentation - but there are some key elements missing. The level design leaves much to be desired, and without the cinematic moments the experience simply isn't incredibly strong. It's still an extremely solid cover shooter with a strong story and some fine platforming elements, but as far as an Uncharted game, it comes up short of what we've come to expect.

Minor criticisms aside, Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon does a fantastic job of servicing the demand for retro nostalgia, but inside the comfortable setting of a very modern, very well-made shooter. It’s the best of both worlds: it looks like a fun retro game, but plays like a properly modern one. What it lacks in genuinely new features it more than makes up for in pure style, and although it controls in exactly the same way as Far Cry 3 the setting makes the action feel fresh.

Driver: San Francisco blows our minds; it's 100% more fun than we expected and immediately re-establishes the franchise front and center in the marketplace.

We loved both the single and multiplayer versions of Splinter Cell Double Agent, so we have no issue recommending it to any PC owner looking for some stealthy action. We had to give it a lower score than the 360 version because of some technical bitchery.

An old school gangster shooter that makes the most of cutting edge tech.

Despite a few bugs with the checkpoint system (we experienced a crash in the ending cutscene of a level and had to repeat the entire thing, for instance), Lego: Lord Of The Rings is an entirely pleasant experience, especially if you haven't seen Peter Jackson's films recently, or simply don't mind sitting through an abbreviated version of them again.

Etrian Odyssey Untold largely succeeds at marrying the series’ gameplay with a more narrative-driven adventure, creating a unique take on the traditional Etrian Odyssey formula, while the Classic mode ensures that longtime fans will not be alienated by the game’s new direction.

It’s not so much that it tries to scare you with monsters, blood, or gore that makes the experience so powerful as it is how the game mentally plays with your senses and emotions. Even if you don’t think you’re easily scared, try playing Outlast alone in the dark with headphones on. This intense rollercoaster ride will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you jump out of it a few times too.

For gamers looking for something well off the beaten path, From Dust is absolutely worth checking out. Its lush graphics, slick visual design and clever environmental engine are the big draws, but it's unfortunately bogged down by excessively frustrating later levels founded on trial and error, and irksome AI that undermines the precision the endgame demands.

A scientifically fluid refinement of upgraded graphical sheen (PS3 has a slight edge over 360) and unprecedented stylish madness that will harvest some of your most enthusiastic hollers.

There's a lot to love here, but gamers with hatred for Laharl and company won't find anything to change their minds. At the very least, those who appreciate the series for all that it is will find this entry more than satisfying, as it does everything better than before.

Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy tells an utterly memorable story, with brilliant takes on the Guardians themselves, even if the gameplay could be more adventurous at times.

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE is basically the JRPG equivalent of a nightclub foam party - an absurd fun premise, great tunes, and surprisingly deep combat.

Alta's reluctance to be in her own cozy game brings a tender and sometimes sharp flavor to an otherwise calming brew of farming and cafe management. Wanderstop is a beautiful and balanced combination of sweet and savoury on the palate of the overworked, exalting the transformative power of tea.

While it lacks some of the openness and emotional pull of its predecessor, The Darkness II is a highly polished, immensely fun shooter that delivers a stellar mix of over-the-top gore, furious action and clever, character-focused storytelling.

Gameplay tweaks and attention to detail make Pokemon Sword and Shield the most compelling Pokemon world to date.

One of the best Wii U games gets a wonderful Switch remaster that brings to life its multiplayer mayhem better than ever before.

Trials Fusion delivers more of what you want: addictively challenging obstacle courses, complete with precision controls and highly competitive leaderboards. The futuristic setting and subplot don't add much, but they (usually) don't detract from the fun either.

Modern Warfare is fast and frenetic, setting a new benchmark for fidelity and high-pressure FPS action.

No sports game gets the past right quite like NBA 2K23 – and its present-day immersiveness is incredibly powerful, too.

A colossal space sim that offers an invigorating amount of freedom. It’s just a shame the multiplayer aspect is so half-baked at the moment.

Ultimately, though, no matter how many times you stare into the eye of the tiger, what counts most here is, well, the thrill of the fight, rising up to the challenge of your rivals. When you meet the largest or most fearsome foe head on, remain steadfast then push aside their best combo like a martial arts master, before spearing them through the gut, it's irresistibly exhilarating. Wo Long's cocktail of measured inputs and furious blows alone should keep the focused warrior going to the end. Keep calm and parry on.

Also somewhat disappointing are the newly added multiplayer features, which are held up by clever level design and strong game modes, but smacked down by uninteresting gameplay. It sounds great in theory, but in practice it turns out there's nothing less fun than being beat up by someone as powerful as Kratos.

There are nits to pick, like having to hammer at buttons to bypass a predictable array of strolling animations, but Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 is still slick as hell, and any golf enthusiast should be thrilled to bits with the depth of play to be had within.

Lego Dimensions is the ultimate Lego game, a charming adventure that has glaring flaws. Its portal is a delight, but the reminders of the areas you’re missing out on grate.

To be sure, NCAA Football 10 is less about major on-field adjustments, and more about expanding the game’s universe. An ambitious list of new options headlines this year’s effort, and most are welcome additions that’ll make you think twice before trading it in the day Madden hits stores.

The Stetchkov Syndicate takes that sense of style up a notch as you flit through a church rammed with recovering junkies in one level, then sweep into a rock club with a massive devil statue the next. Excellent.

Super Time Force brings a time traveling twist to the classic sidescrolling shooter, and while playing it can feel like you’ve chugged one too many energy drinks, the hilarious charm and satisfying gameplay helps take the edge off.

They still do too little to attract non-fans to the series, but for the vast crowd who have already been taken in by its charms, B&W2 will be yet another excuse to catch 'em all.

Gameplay tweaks and attention to detail make Pokemon Sword and Shield the most compelling Pokemon world to date.

With such a vibrant atmosphere and fundamentally fun gameplay, Puppeteer is a cut above most contemporary 2D sidescrollers.

Every second of this game screams skillful design and the result is a liberating game world that feels open and responsive. Nearly every object in the game reacts to Lara's influence, and this applies to the gamer holding the control pad as well - it's impossible to play this game and not fall under its tempting spell.

Skate Story is a beautiful and unique skateboarding game with great, stylized visuals and interesting characters. The movement might make you queasy and the skateboarding element could have been developed further, but it does a lot with its premise and refuses to pander to convention, which is refreshing. A wonderful creation, but not always a great game.

This is adventure done right.

Oh, you'll hear plenty of Diablo comparisons, and we loved the big D six years ago, but hopefully you've moved on since, because this "role-playing-made-love-to-a-strategy-game" hybrid certainly has.

It simply looks and plays better than any baseball game ever has. That doesn’t hide the fact that the game also fails to innovate off the field in any material way. While that’s not a fatal flaw, there will come a time in the near future when its fans will demand new and interesting ways to enjoy its beauty.

This year, there's no finer hoops experience to be had on any console.

While not quite as innovative as the original, Company of Heroes 2 does little wrong besides weigh itself down with the mildly superfluous and fail to push the envelope of video game narrative--though at times it really seems desperate to try.

An intoxicating, memorable journey, with smart puzzles and a resonant story.

The first let so many down, while part two succeeds in just about everything it set out to do. Maybe it's the bundled MotionPlus, maybe it's just better programming, but we left Red Steel 2 thinking it could be the most improved sequel of all time. If you've given up on Wii shooters, here's a reason to rethink your stance.

It's gorgeous, and a clear labour of love, but the controls might drive you, err, N.Sane.

But for 10-12 hours, Ninjatown is a very charming and habit-forming, if modest, RTS that puts a throwing star right in our hearts.

These speed bumps aside, MotoGP '06 delivers exceptional bi-pedal racing action for anyone who likes to roll at high speed and who understands the difference between driving a car and riding a bike. A really fast bike.

Thirsty Suitors dazzles with flair and wit, but underneath all the thirst humour is a heartfelt story of family, identity, and returning home.

Although Fable III's streamlined approach to the traditional Fable concept might feel a little odd to franchise veterans at first, this iteration is every bit as engaging and rewarding as its predecessors. Moreso, in fact, given that Lionhead's subtle but deeply effective changes to character and world interaction add such a tangible sense of attachment. Big, clever and funny, you'll rarely have enjoyed going through such punishing emotional torment.

With its twisted tale of murder and high school gone wrong, Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc weaves a devilishly addictive tale you'll want to see through to the end.

Is it as good as the console versions? No, and the audio problems make this a hard game to recommend if you're interested in the story. Plus, even if the controls are great for a Wii game, they're still not as good as a regular controller.

The Rogue Prince of Persia can be a bit too conventional for its own good, lacking any real unique qualities in a crowded market, but it's certainly good-looking and there's a fluidity to the platforming that will carry most players through to the end. I confess I hoped for more from the Dead Cells developer, but I won't say I'm disappointed.

When Gravity Rush 2 sticks to its strengths, it soars; it’s a shame that its stale mission design and clumsy controls keep it from getting too high off the ground.

If you're a Castlevania completist, or just a fan of old school gaming, then pick up this bloodsucker.

Gameplay tweaks and attention to detail make Pokemon Sword and Shield the most compelling Pokemon world to date.

While rough around the edges, the franchise still wears the crown of best team-based experience in gaming today - for now.

The Artful Escape is a short but oh-so-sweet platformer that will have you bopping to its impossibly catch beats and transfixed by its beauty.

While the gameplay hasn't received many updates, the entire package is definitely enough to keep your collection growing.

Simply put: you’d have to have a frigid, icy heart to not love this game on some level.

Need for Speed: Rivals is a wholly enjoyable open-world racer. The driving is solid, its streets are a joy to explore, and its racing assignments--though a bit repetitive at times--are incentive enough to keep you coming back for more.

Dawn of War II - Retribution is not a genre-beater; it has its issues. But none of its niggles stop it from being a great RTS romp. It still offers that unique Dawn of War II experience, deep strategy, interesting (although repetitive) missions and is one hefty standalone package for the $30 asking price.

Scott Pilgrim EX has all of the makings of another great brawler on Tribute Games' resume, gorgeous art, charming dialogue, and great soundtrack make it worth a run through. But, despite the fantastic varied roster of fighting-game inspired characters, there really isn't too much to do with them in the game's weak quest design and open world.