Dispatch is a successful experiment, a return to episodic narrative that doesn't aim for nostalgia but for reinvention. It is a superhero story told from an unprecedented perspective, closer to daily life than to spectacle. It is a title capable of making you laugh, making you think, and, at times, even moving you. A game that, without the need for booming plot twists or special effects, still manages to captivate and leave a lasting impression. AdHoc Studio thus delivers a surprising, mature, and self-aware debut, and their game proves that the Telltale-style narrative model can still work, when supported by solid writing, a stellar cast, and a clear vision of what they want to tell. Episode after episode, it manages to build a small, great world that is believable, human, and unforgettable. And, above all, it proves that sometimes the true heroes are not those who fight, but those who listen, decide, make mistakes, learn, and keep trying. A masterpiece!

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is a wonderful game, and it remains just that in this Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. The technical upgrade highlights the mastery of Nintendo’s designers, finally bringing the delightful art style into full sharpness even on 4K TVs. The new content additions are a fun bonus that push Wonder to the edge of Mario Party territory in the attractions of Bellabel Park or provide incentives to improve and revisit sections you’ve already beaten. At its core, however, remains Wonder’s elaborate, elegant, and super-creative platforming—arguably one of the genre’s greatest achievements.

DOOM: The Dark Ages is a bold, successful reinvention blending dark fantasy and sci-fi, offering a unique experience. Gameplay innovations like the versatile shield and "stand and fight" add tactical depth while keeping the signature frenzy. Despite minor flaws, expanded environments and deeper progression create a rich, accessible journey that evolves the series while staying true to its brutal core.

Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 remain masterpieces, and the slight technical adjustments made by Nintendo make them technically enjoyable for everyone even today (thanks to the great design work of the original developers). Assisted Mode is an excellent introduction, perfect for novices, but also for those who want to eliminate some frustration and tedium from the equation. The only sticking point is the price: without doing the math for anyone, these are two masterpieces, difficult to find until now and optimized for modern enjoyment. At the price of a normal AAA game. It's expensive, but what it offers is worth every penny.

Metal Gear Solid Snake Eater Delta builds on the rock-solid foundations of the 2004 classic, delivering a gripping narrative and updated gameplay that raise the bar for an already outstanding experience. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the remake refines countless mechanics from the original, significantly improving quality of life and making the game more accessible to a new generation of players unfamiliar with Big Boss. That said, while the results are impressive, some longtime fans may feel a tinge of disappointment. A deeper overhaul of environments and design elements, which are showing their 21-year-old origins, would have been a welcome step forward. The good news, however, is that Konami has decided to revisit the Metal Gear Solid saga, and Delta stands as a promising foundation for future projects; and these will demand not just careful restoration, but also a bit more courage.

SAROS stands out confidently and without a shadow of a doubt as one of the best PlayStation 5 exclusives, the result of an extremely polished and intelligent effort by Housemarque. It's not simply an evolution of Returnal, but a bold step forward that finds its strength in a remarkably well-achieved balance between challenge, depth, and accessibility. The game manages to make a typically demanding structure more readable and manageable, without ever truly simplifying it. The progression is smart and rewarding, the gunplay precise and satisfying, while new mechanics add complexity without ever feeling frustrating. Everything is designed with one clear goal in mind: to guide you through the experience in the best possible way. The result is an excellent experience on every level — solid, polished, and perfectly balanced. SAROS doesn't just improve on what came before; it demonstrates that it's possible to elevate a genre while keeping the challenge intact, making it at the same time more modern and accessible.

Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is an action game that cannot be missing from your library. From a technical standpoint, it's a triumph of beauty and level design, while in terms of gameplay it's truly unrivaled even by much more renowned games, thanks to a deep study of the original brand's concepts, transformed into an essential and highly enjoyable game.

With its unique and offbeat style, satisfying and poetic gameplay, and dreamlike atmosphere, Keeper is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful and original surprises of the 2025 gaming year.

Two Point Museum takes an already excellent series to new heights thanks to the incredible variety offered by the museums. Each challenge—bringing these institutions to a state of glory—feels unique in its own way while remaining interconnected through the progressive unlocking of rooms, objects, staff, and more, all influencing one another. The five museum locations in the story mode each present their own challenges, guiding players through the experience without ever making them feel lost. Management requires careful planning but never feels overwhelming. With the signature wacky humor of the series—along with the sharp sarcasm of an overworked receptionist—this third installment stands out for the sheer number of mechanics and dynamics to juggle. Between educating adults, keeping mischievous kids occupied, and preventing a caveman thawed from the ice from wreaking havoc, becoming a curator worthy of Two Point County is both an addictive and wildly entertaining experience.

Alaloth: Champions of The Four Kingdoms is a bold, heartfelt tribute to classic isometric action-RPGs. Its souls-like combat demands dedication and strategic planning, while the open world of Plamen delivers dozens of hours of dungeons, lore, and emergent surprises. Minor technical rough edges and a steep learning curve do little to diminish its retro spirit or solid PC performance. A must-play for fans of challenging, old-school RPG adventures.

If your concern is that the game wasn't final yet, that's correct — there's a mountain of things still to be polished; but if you think it doesn't work or that it isn't fun, then no, I can assure you that you could spend your whole life in it listening to stories, admiring landscapes, discovering secrets, riding, saving... and even greeting people (yes, that matters too), because everyday life has never been so enjoyable, even in the small things, and the adventures that await you are truly memorable.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is an ambitious and immersive RPG that expands and refines the formula of its predecessor without losing its identity. Thanks to its deep gameplay mechanics, engaging storytelling and a meticulously crafted historical setting, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 offers a truly unique experience, though not without some technical limitations. Challenging and content-rich, this sequel is sure to captivate players seeking an authentic and lengthy adventure in the heart of medieval Bohemia.

Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth on PC represents a high-quality port able to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers alike.With outstanding performance and impeccable visuals, it showcases a strong commitment to enhancing the experience on a new platform.While some customization options are limited, and ultrawide screen support is absent, the overall experience remains immersive and unforgettable, making it one of the best PC conversions in recent memory.

Despite its ominous title, Dead of Darkness shines as a rare beacon in the modern horror landscape, which often relies on remakes to deliver meaningful experiences. With meticulously crafted pixel art and a compelling narrative, this indie title embraces old-school survival horror mechanics reminiscent of the original Resident Evil. From inventory management to locked doors and scattered puzzles, this game, developed by one single person, offers a nostalgic yet gripping challenge for genre enthusiasts. And for those who crave even greater difficulty, two additional unlockable modes beyond "Hard" will push your survival instincts to the limit.

Among the finest soulslike games around, though the label doesn’t quite do it justice. This is an action game brimming with charisma, featuring fierce, exhilarating gameplay destined to earn a place in the hall of fame of great classics. Even if you're not familiar with the lore of Dungeon & Fighter, it's still worth diving into its dark fantasy story and experiencing a game that caters to all those who crave a real challenge.

The character voice acting—especially in Japanese—adds further personality to the story and helps make the cast even more memorable.

Resident Evil: Requiem accomplishes something extremely rare: it takes a historic franchise, packages all the strengths—and in some ways even the flaws—of its previous installments, and somehow makes it feel fresh, surprising, and necessary even today. Its more mature narrative, the duality of its protagonists, layered gameplay, and a virtually flawless technical execution come together to create an experience that thrives not only on nostalgia but also on evolution. This chapter truly raises the quality bar for modern survival horror. Fans of the genre, as well as newcomers to both the series and survival horror itself, will find a concentration of tension and atmosphere that is difficult to match. It is accessible without being simplified, spectacular without losing its identity, and above all frightening in exactly the right way. Resident Evil: Requiem once again proves why this franchise continues to be an absolute benchmark. If the goal was to create the best Resident Evil ever made, Requiem comes very close.

Starfield arrives on PlayStation in the most massive way possible. It’s not without (initial) issues, but you can already enjoy over a hundred hours of adventure. The original formula was already rich; now you can experience all the journeys across the galaxy, keeping in mind that Bethesda will surely serve up more particularly tasty additions for all the space pirates who want to embark on an epic voyage.

Ghost of Yotei is everything fans of the previous game from Sucker Punch’s series could have wished for: a more of the same built upon a mature, expansive, and brilliantly written narrative — not only in the main missions but also in the side quests. The combat system offers a variety of weapons and fighting styles that bring freshness to the gameplay, though it’s a system that requires some getting used to and won’t appeal to everyone. The graphics, gameplay style, and overall quality are on par with a triple-A title of the kind we haven’t seen in years, so we gladly welcome this production, confident that it will soon become a classic.

There are few examples around of games as polished and refined as Hollow Knight: Silksong. Every single element of the game is the result of careful study and thoughtful consideration to ensure that players get exactly what Team Cherry wants to convey. And the difficulty, which is undeniably high even for a Metroidvania, is not an end in itself, but a means of transporting the player through a world that does not simply ask to be traversed, but revealed.

WWE 2K26 is an impressive game that captures the magic of WWE. It's three games in one, maybe even four, each with remarkable depth and each enriched with a host of new features in this edition. There's always room for improvement, but this is one of the highest peaks in the series.

ARC Raiders brings extraction shooters to the forefront of online gaming, despite the heavy competition it faces. This is no coincidence, but rather the result of the excellent work done by Embark: settings designed with heart, evocative and great to play; precise, calibrated mechanics that spontaneously lead to unpredictable and entertaining dynamics; an exciting technical aspect, not only in terms of graphics, but also in terms of sound, a true cornerstone of tension. Like any online game, it will be subject to future changes, but for now, it is simply the game to play at the end of 2025.

Street Fighter 6 on Nintendo Switch 2 is probably the best version you can play. It's not top of the line in terms of resolution, but with DLSS you don't even notice, the performance is a nice stable 60 fps and we enjoyed it from the very first moments, net of a truly top-of-the-range effects system, so a great debut for the Nintendo console for an almost perfect game.

The Outer Worlds 2 is exactly everything we could have hoped to see in the sequel to the title that made our hearts race back in 2019. Technically almost flawless, with gameplay improved in every respect and a world increasingly realistic in its satire of our own reality, The Outer Worlds 2 is a pure RPG, capable of offering practically everything that can excite a true role-playing purist.What truly surprises is the depth of the choices our character can make, and how many elements can change based on them. Personal relationships, power struggles among factions, and even the future of the Arcadia star system—everything might be affected by what we do.Add to all this a meticulously crafted script and an art direction of rare beauty, and you’ve got the perfect combination. A few bugs can’t scare a real space captain, nor can the vast amount of text to read (all in Italian) needed to fully grasp the game’s lore.To sum it all up in one sentence: The Outer Worlds 2 is a true RPG, the kind we rarely see anymore.

The Alters doesn't just tell a story — it forces you to live with it. Every choice feels heavy, not because of game mechanics alone, but because of what it says about the person you’ve become. Managing time, resources, and fractured identities is often stressful, sometimes overwhelming, but always meaningful. Even when things spiral out of control, there’s a quiet power in how the game ties survival to introspection. It’s not flawless, but it’s rare to find a game that merges concept and execution with such emotional clarity.

Salamander III alone is almost worth the full price. The rest is one of the best collections of a classic series that still holds up and is now more accessible than ever. A must-play for shmup fans and a great entry point for newcomers. That said, here's hoping for a similar treatment for the console titles, with extras like Gaiden, Solar Assault... and don’t forget Parodius.

The Project Zero 2 remake has a value that goes far beyond technical specs or cold numbers. It's proof that a certain kind of horror — one that steers clear of gore and spectacle at all costs — can still work in a market this 'distracted' and increasingly drawn to quick thrills. Tecmo Koei has taken its most accomplished and beloved entry and transformed it into something new, capable of attracting even those players who, until now, had kept their distance from the kind of unsettling, supernatural atmosphere that defines the Project Zero series.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach on PC is a masterclass in optimization, proving that technical respect for the player remains paramount. On mid-range hardware like the RTX 4060 Ti, Nixxes has crafted a port that transcends its console origins through impeccable scaling and a stunning Ultrawide implementation. While VRAM limitations require a mindful approach to settings, the result is a rock-solid, cinematically superior experience. With its refined combat loop and breathtaking vistas, it stands as a new technical benchmark for the industry. A definitive, unassailable version of Kojima’s vision.

Cronos: The New Dawn is an ambitious work that marks a crucial moment for Bloober Team, following the success of the Silent Hill 2 remake. The game successfully blends contemporary themes like isolation and pandemic fears with science fiction storytelling in the best possible way. The choice to base "New Dawn" on the real industrial district of Nowa Huta adds a layer of realism that elevates the entire experience. However, we must be clear: Cronos is not for everyone. The constant inventory management, the difficulty of certain sections, and the lack of a proper game map could be too frustrating for those seeking a more accessible experience. Ultimately, Cronos: The New Dawn is a mature and conscious survival horror game, with which Bloober has finally found its authorial voice.

Split Fiction is a true tribute to video games as a medium of entertainment. It takes the winning formula of It Takes Two and amplifies it to the extreme, delivering engaging and ever-evolving gameplay. Zoe and Mio are protagonists that players can instantly connect with—they're young, reckless, and each carry a past they must come to terms with. Through their stories, they seek a way to express their emotions and feelings. At a time when the gaming industry is struggling to find the key to overcoming its self-inflicted crisis, Hazelight Studio proves that another path exists—one paved with ideas, creativity, and passion. A passion that raises the bar of the quality and cements Split Fiction’s place in the pantheon of video games.

Technically solid, artistically inspired and narratively impressive, this new chapter represents a true rebirth for the spin-off series, elevating it beyond the boundaries of a mere action game. Aside from a few balancing issues, with the difficulty tending to be on the easier side at lower levels, and that slight sense of repetitiveness typical of musou titles, the game fully deserves top marks. Hyrule Warriors: The Age of Exile is not only one of the flagship titles for the Nintendo Switch 2, but also an example of how a crossover can enrich a legendary saga without betraying its spirit. Princess Zelda is ready to write a new chapter in her epic tale and let that air of legend echo once again through the magnificent kingdom of Hyrule.

Nioh 3 represents Team Ninja’s full maturity and a true evolution for the soulslike genre. With its dual combat styles and open-map design, the game successfully lowers the barrier to entry for newcomers without compromising on its signature difficulty. This results in an experience that is as rewarding and entertaining for long-time fans as it is for those approaching a soulslike for the first time. While there are some criticisms regarding frame rate stability and enemy AI, these issues do not ultimately undermine the overall experience. In a market saturated with titles that are mere pale imitations of FromSoftware’s work, often falling into the 'more of the same' trap, Nioh 3 stands out. It does so not just through its soulslike mechanics, but by the way it masters them, blending them with a unique identity. The result is an original game that brings a breath of fresh air to the genre.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land was a great platformer on Switch, and the Switch 2 version is even better. Beyond the graphical overhaul, which was necessary and welcome, the highlight of this edition is the expansion of content, which resolves one of the main issues with the original game. The other was the difficulty level, which was set too low, and here too, the additional content steps in to offer a slightly tougher challenge. The question remains as to whether a remake of a 2022 game was necessary, but the additional content attempts to resolve a couple of the game's main limitations and, after all, it is also available as an update for those who already own the original game on Switch.

Elden Ring: Nightreign proves to be an excellent expansion that further enriches the already vast and deep universe created by FromSoftware. With dark and evocative settings, challenging new trials, and consistently inspired design, it keeps tension and wonder high throughout the entire adventure. A few technical hiccups and an occasionally punishing difficulty level do little to detract from an overall extraordinary experience. A must for every Tarnished in search of glory (and pain).

Blades of Fire has definitely won us over: MercurySteam's work easily holds its own against more renowned teams and graphics engines, offering a pleasant and exciting gaming experience - except for the occasional flaw - in what is not "the usual souls-like" but a game with interesting and exclusive ideas and at the same time a vast and intriguing development. A real surprise in a gaming landscape increasingly full of sequels and "more of the same".

The Last of Us Part II Remastered arrives on PC in great shape, with strong performance, rich customization options, and all the content packed in. Whether you're diving in for the first time or coming back for the extras, this version offers a polished, complete experience that finally feels right at home on PC.

With this Super Bomberman Collection, fans will finally find a complete way to relive the golden age of the series; new players will have the perfect opportunity to discover why Bomberman remains a video game icon more than thirty years after its inception. A blast from the past for one of the longest-running and most beloved series in gaming.

MIXTAPE is one of those games that is difficult to describe simply by discussing its graphics, gameplay, or content, because the work’s true value lies in the feelings it leaves you with once the adventure is over. It is a sincere, delicate, and incredibly human emotional journey—a title that manages to transform seemingly simple moments into something special, leveraging music, direction, and writing to craft an experience that lingers in your memory far longer than many games filled with spectacular effects. MIXTAPE perfectly captures that very sensation: the sweet melancholy of a time that no longer exists, yet continues to live on in the memories of those who truly lived through it. Of course, those seeking a purely action-oriented experience or particularly deep mechanics might be taken aback by the production’s heavily narrative-driven approach. But those willing to immerse themselves in its atmosphere will discover a work capable of truly moving them.

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE on Nintendo Switch 2 is a true gem and represents one of the finest modern incarnations of a timeless classic. It is an ambitious, bold work that shows deep respect for the original material, capable of reinventing itself without losing its soul. Thanks to a deep combat system, a layered narrative, extremely flexible difficulty and accessibility options, and a surprisingly solid technical performance on Nintendo hardware, this edition still stands today as a benchmark for the modern JRPG genre. Whether you are longtime fans or new players, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an unmissable journey into the heart of the beloved old Midgar, as well as an experience that demonstrates how the past and the future of video games can coexist in a single, extraordinary vision.

Following the disappointment of Double Exposure, Deck Nine Games makes a miraculous return to form with Life is Strange: Reunion. The game does more than just lean on nostalgia; it masterfully fulfills the goal of closing Max and Chloe’s narrative arc with unprecedented maturity. Through a mise-en-scène that poignantly captures their emotional distance and the fear of no longer having a place in each other's lives, the game transforms their reunion into a powerful narrative key. Despite an opening that could have felt like a gamble, experiencing the reality of this adventure first-hand reveals a story steeped in intimacy and pain, capable of giving the saga the perfect conclusion fans truly deserved. It is a testament to narrative awareness, proving that even as all certainties crumble around us, we are never truly alone.

WWE 2K25 brings back the wrestling saga created in collaboration between WWE, 2K and Visual Concepts to the glories of the past with a revamped Showcase, which revels in playing with the great “what ifs” of history, and many additions and refinements in each of its components. The Island, the new online mode, did not, however, bring that hoped-for momentum. This chapter is great, but the risk of repetitiveness is around the corner: new ideas are needed for the future.

What a surprise Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 was! Expectations around Sandfall Interactive's RPG were high, but the end result exceeded all expectations. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33! a solid game, which on the technical side is no match for much richer productions. Gustave's adventure amazes through a mature and adult use of storytelling and thanks to a combat system that mixes turns and real time, then opening up a huge range of strategic possibilities with the introduction of Pictos. From the music to the voice acting, each element plays its own part in the construction of a tragic and fascinating story.

Escape from Duckov is proof that even a parody can evolve into a meaningful experience. It’s an extraction shooter that’s accessible yet deep, able to deliver all the adrenaline of the genre without PvP, and with a sense of humor that never undermines the tension, in fact, it heightens it. Fun, clever, and polished, Duckov is one of those rare games that make you smile while keeping you on edge, a balance that’s hard to achieve. A small instant cult classic, designed for those who love calculated risks, careful planning, and a touch of well-managed madness.

If you love arcade games, RPGs, and action games where playing a football character is just an excuse to ignite a heated argument of dialogue and actions bordering on insanity, don't miss out.

Aphelion marks the full maturity of Don’t Nod, as the team successfully breaks free from its self-imposed "creative cage" to deliver a raw and essential sci-fi work. Thanks to the collaboration with the ESA, the journey on Persephone avoids all clichés, transforming into a plausible and terrifying projection of our climate crisis and the urgent need to seek refuge elsewhere. The gameplay effectively splits between Ariane’s physical exploration and Thomas’s slow-burn investigation, where oxygen management and the threat of the Nemesis convey the scale of a titanic environment indifferent to human life. Visually monumental, the title stuns with its photorealistic glaciers and an alien soundscape enriched by Amine Bouhafa’s soundtrack. By tackling urgent themes like the New Space Economy and climate migration, Aphelion is not just a video game, but a political work that reminds us that the future depicted is no longer a matter of "if," but "when."

Ball x Pit is one of the most surprising and engaging roguelites of 2025, capable of transforming a simple idea into a mesmerizing gaming experience. This is the indie game from Devolver Digital that you need to download now, and it's also available as a demo.

We’re definitely not talking about Gran Turismo or Forza Horizon, but about a game that will let you travel with your imagination once again. All while still offering just the right amount of challenge, which is always welcome, and the desire to spend a Sunday with your family, having fun all together.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond may not reinvent the formula or challenge the legacy of the original and Echoes, but it delivers an excellent adventure that every Switch and Switch 2 owner should experience. Retro Studios proves the series still has plenty to offer in 2025, with refined gameplay, strong atmosphere, and smart evolution of the classic Prime structure. Some narrative shortcomings and a few rough edges hold it back from absolute greatness, but they never undermine a first-rate journey that’s engaging from start to finish. Here’s hoping we won’t have to wait another era for the next chapter.

Dogpile is therefore not just a "Suika Game with dogs": it is the natural evolution of that formula, a transformation that takes a viral concept and gives it structure, substance, and replayability. It's a puzzle game that makes you laugh, relaxes you, frustrates you, and rewards you, a title that doesn't simply copy but has the courage to grow, expand, and improve upon its inspiration. In the end, when the yard explodes and you find yourself faced with the result of your run, it's hard not to want to start over again, with a new deck, a new approach, and the hope of creating another giant, adorable St. Bernard.

Xenoblade Chronicles X Definitive Edition is the sumptuous return of a series that reached an incredible technical and performance peak on the Wii U, but it still holds up very well on the Switch, because the heart of the game lies in solid RPG gameplay that deserves more attention from the public.

Door Kickers 2: Task Force North is a real-time tactical game that expands and improves upon its predecessor, delivering a deep and rewarding strategic planning experience. With a variety of missions, detailed maps, and specialized units, the game challenges players to carefully balance action and strategy to successfully complete objectives. While the learning curve can be steep and some situations may feel frustrating, the satisfaction of completing a well-executed mission makes the game highly recommended for fans of the genre.

Reanimal marks Tarsier’s return to its most natural territory: a dramatic, oppressive horror that takes the legacy of Little Nightmares and pulls it into a darker, more psychological direction. Atmosphere, art direction and the use of co-op are the true driving forces of the experience, turning escape into a tense dialogue between two tiny bodies crushed by a distorted world…There are still stumbles in the readability of certain mechanics and in the limitations of the AI during single-player, along with a cast of figures that is not always as memorable as the environments that contain them. Flaws that, however, do not undermine the strength of a coherent and recognizable work, one that marks a new nightmare for Tarsier worthy of the name the studio has built for itself.

Octopath Traveler 0 is a JRPG of extraordinary maturity, capable of blending narrative, exploration, strategy, and customization into a work of rare beauty. The intense story, freedom of action, the well-tested and refined combat system, and the ability to rebuild your own village give life to a deep and engaging experience, while the technical execution and the soundtrack reach levels of true excellence. If it weren't for the lack of Italian localization, the title would almost touch upon absolute masterpiece status. Octopath Traveler 0 remains one of the most ambitious and brilliant HD-2D works ever produced by Square Enix, capable of thrilling, surprising, and surely leaving a lasting mark. An unmissable journey for fans of the genre and a proof of strength for a series that, chapter after chapter, continues to reinvent itself without losing its soul.

An interactive storytelling enthusiast—evidently captivated by *Disco Elysium*—decided to create a similar video game, albeit opting for a fantasy setting. The result is a title that, in many respects, closely resembles ZA/UM’s game; however, to reduce it to a mere variation on a theme would be unfair. Esoteric Ebb is a work capable of immersing the player in a complex universe, offering a commendable degree of role-playing freedom, and embedding its narrative within a gameplay framework that is, in some ways, superior even to that of *Disco Elysium* itself. If you aren't daunted by extensive on-screen reading and have a love for RPGs, give Esoteric Ebb a chance—you won't be disappointed.

Staying fresh and relevant is no easy feat—even for a giant like Civilization. The seventh entry in the legendary series, born from the visionary mind of Sid Meier, reshuffles the deck of its historic gameplay, presenting itself as a well-crafted, engaging title, albeit in a more streamlined form. Some hallmark features of past Civ games disappear, new ones emerge, and others are reimagined. Yet, Civilization VII remains a high-quality strategy experience, highly recommended for fans of the genre—though certain elements could have been refined further. It may not be an undisputed masterpiece, but it is undoubtedly a deep and rewarding game, challenging players across a journey as vast as human history itself. The question may be: is Civilization VIII better or worse than its predecessors?The question is irrelevant, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is simply different and offers a fresh take on one of gaming’s most beloved franchises.

Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter is the kind of action game that surprises you, even after an already impressive first chapter. The storytelling is beautiful, albeit simple, and the combat system is effective for an indie title that has already captured the hearts of many.

Perhaps more attention could have been given to quality of life improvements, Italian localization, and an additional graphical upgrade, but Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles brings back to our consoles one of the most iconic turn-based strategy games in history—still considered today one of the highest points of the genre. We’re dealing with a masterpiece in its own right, though it feels like Square Enix completed the task without particular ambition. That said, when the foundation is this strong, even a faithful adaptation without bold innovations can still deliver an unmissable video game. A deep and intricate storyline, well-written characters, and layered gameplay built around a job system that remains influential to this day—all these elements make Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles a remarkable title, just as the original was back in 1997. Add in the gameplay refinements, voice acting, and the soundtrack by master composer Hitoshi Sakimoto (almost identical to the original), and the result is clear: as fans we might have hoped for more, but the quality is undeniable. Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles is a must-play for everyone, whether you have already experienced its incredible atmosphere or are about to step onto the battlefield alongside Ramza and his companions for the very first time.

The absence of some classic franchise features may raise eyebrows among longtime fans, but as a single-player experience, Dynasty Warriors: Origin stands out as an excellent action RPG. Engaging, content-rich, and occasionally quite challenging, it refines and deepens the traditional musou formula, letting something behind compared to other installments, Dynasty Warriors Origins builds a solid foundation for the series' future.Recommended for action game enthusiasts in general, even those who have previously overlooked the musou genre; Origins might just change their minds.

The PC port of Rise of the Ronin proves to be solid and highly scalable, thanks to a wide range of graphical options that allow for customization across different setups. However, preset adjustments are necessary to achieve the right balance, and some settings in the options menu feel less intuitive than expected. Since this test was conducted on a pre-release build, improvements may come with the day one update, and we genuinely hope they do.

Silent Hill f proves to be a remarkable restart for the series: brave and divisive, it may not find favor with series purists but traces a potential new future.

Talking about MLB The Show 25 means discussing yet another excellent installment of a franchise that stands as a true benchmark for all baseball enthusiasts. A vast array of playable modes blends with a more than solid technical department, featuring gameplay that improves year after year and offers extensive customization, making MLB The Show 25 perfect for both newcomers and seasoned players alike. Applause for the gameplay, which allows for a seamless transition from an arcade style to a more simulation-oriented approach, maintaining high standards in both cases. Perhaps the player models could have been updated, but the overall visual quality remains impressive. The only real flaw I encountered was lag in online matches, likely due to the fact that I was always playing against overseas opponents. That said, once again, there’s only one thing left to say: MLB The Show 25 hits a massive home run.

There’s nothing like Mullet MadJack on the market, and it’s a must-have for your collection. Run, slide, and shoot in a race against time where the countdown is just as deadly as the enemies you face. You might risk frying your brain... but all in all, it’s a sacrifice well worth the effort.

If you own an Xbox or a gaming PC, chances are you haven’t missed the chance to throw on a fedora and leather jacket—whip included—in digital form. But if all you have at home is a PlayStation 5, this is a golden opportunity to experience what’s likely one of the best stories featuring the American archaeologist. Enjoy it for the gameplay, the story, or Indy’s personality—but whatever the reason, make it yours.

JDM is absolutely "raw", it has a huge heart, some flaws, but it doesn't miss a beat when it comes to doing real "drift". If you like arcade racing... buy it! If you like drifting in a more or less thorough way, with pad or steering wheel, don't leave it on the shelf.

Intense, captivating, and visually perfect, Bye Sweet Carole is a little gem that Italy should be proud of. Without sacrificing horror and mature themes, Chris Darril once again hits the mark with a great production that, we're sure, will be echoed by future productions. Make it yours: the price is affordable, it's hilarious, and there's no shortage of moments for reflection. You couldn't ask for more.

Borderlands 4 is everything fans were waiting for. Too bad that its way of being "more of the same" ends up being less than expected. It sticks to the gameplay formula stubbornly — the new approach to combat is insane — but the graphics, which don’t make a strong visual impression, also carry a heavy toll in terms of performance and system requirements. The missions take on a new style, but they’re less impactful than in previous installments. It’s not so much the added seriousness that makes the formula less satisfying, but rather that sometimes the motivations of the heroes or villains feel like they just don’t care enough to be compelling... But in the end, who cares? Grab a gun and jump into the arena: there’s lead, madness, and flying guts for everyone.

Let's start with the premise that Super Mario Party Jamboree is a great, huge game that offers a huge amount of challenges, mini-games, scoreboards, and collectibles, and it comes back on Switch 2 with a new outfit for the occasion. The Jamboree TV is a nice addition, designed to take special advantage of the camera and put a face on all the participants, but also the new Joycon 2 features. The critical point, of course, is the price, certainly not low, but justified in Nintendo's view by the high (and undeniable) quality of the game. Making objective evaluations on the money is always complicated, but from our point of view Super Mario Party Jamboree is a really hilarious and engaging experience, especially if you don't mind Nintendo's usual long-windedness between menus and various skits, including the new Jamboree TV, which doesn't revolutionize the formula, but takes good advantage of the new hardware potential.

EA SPORTS FC 26 takes several steps forward, resulting in an enhanced gameplay experience. The two gameplay styles, Realistic and Competitive, manage to offer players a choice that can meet the needs of different audiences. However, it would have been interesting to allow all Realistic gameplay fans to play in competitive online modes, facing (naturally) only those who use the same gameplay style. That said, the improvements are clear and noticeable—goalkeepers above all—but in general progress has been made in almost every aspect, even if some rebounds during tackles leave something to be desired, and the overwhelming technical superiority of certain players still persists, with the risk of facing opponents who secure victories by endlessly spamming tricks. Aside from that, EA SPORTS FC 26 is a title with a simply boundless amount of content, and it surely has something to offer every football enthusiast—whether it’s for those who can’t resist the temptation of opening packs, those who are satisfied with a quick match every now and then, or those who dream of building their own career as a player or manager. Yes, we are certain that as the months go by, some issues will inevitably arise, but expecting everything to run smoothly in such a vast and ever-evolving title is far from realistic. For now, we step onto the pitch and enjoy EA SPORTS FC 26, thanks to the growth path the development team is taking more and more seriously, year after year.

Years go by, but Milestone continues to deliver for both its fans and MotoGP enthusiasts. MotoGP 26 is a solid and entertaining title, capable of satisfying players willing to put in the effort to master these two-wheeled beasts, while also welcoming more casual gamers thanks to its arcade mode. Compared to the previous installment, there are several additions in terms of both content and gameplay, although most of them are refinements to the handling system and physics rather than major innovations. There’s no revolution here, but tampering too much with the series’ core formula would have been a mistake considering how much enjoyment it already provides to fans. Of course, we would have liked to see a deeper career mode and slightly more reactive AI, but that doesn’t take away from the overall quality of the package offered by MotoGP 26. If you want an experience capable of making you fully appreciate everything the MotoGP world has to offer, this is definitely the game for you. And it doesn’t matter if a few flaws still remain: learning how to truly understand your bike and mastering every corner of every track until you finally set the perfect lap time is a satisfaction beyond compare. Are you ready to jump into the saddle and challenge Marc Márquez and Marco Bezzecchi for the top step of the podium?

Vampire Crawlers: The Turbo Wildcard works as a creative experiment that translates the chaotic and ironic soul of Vampire Survivors into a fast and unpredictable card formula: it's not as deep as a traditional deck-builder, but it bets everything on rhythm, surprises and short sessions, offering a light and fun experience especially for those who love the original universe and want something different without too many complications.

Occasionally clunky controls and cryptic progression keep Chronicles of the Wolf from reaching true greatness, but it remains an excellent old-school metroidvania and a heartfelt tribute to Konami’s Igavanias. Long, challenging in all the right ways, and consistently fun, with top-notch presentation and a superb soundtrack; hard to ask for much more.

Drop Duchy and its DLC The Tribe represent a beautiful combination of strategy and creativity, where every element fits together with precision in a refined ludic mosaic that always manages to surprise. The base game offers a deep experience capable of blending different genres into an entertaining formula, while the expansion enriches everything with a new mystical faction, innovative mechanics, and an alternative vision of the game world. Its only flaw is that it sometimes tends to divert the player's attention a bit, as they are somewhat forced to repeat the same actions continuously, but it works quite well overall.

Ground Zero is a masterful love letter to classic 90s survival horror. By blending the nostalgic charm of pre-rendered backgrounds and fixed cameras with brilliant modernizations like free aim, fluid movement, and a rewarding parry system, it entirely avoids the pitfalls of clunky retro clones. Boasting crisp Unreal Engine 5 visuals, a gripping branching narrative set in post-apocalyptic Busan, and a stellar resource management loop, it perfectly bridges the gap between past and present. An absolute must-play for genre veterans.

Lumines Arise isn’t content with simply being a sequel; it may well be the definitive realization of Mizuguchi’s vision. Accessible, deep, artistically sublime, and featuring a VR component that makes it almost transcendental, it is an essential title for anyone who loves puzzle games and high-level audiovisual experiences.

MIO: Memories in Orbit doesn’t reinvent the wheel, yet it stands out thanks to its rock-solid foundations, immaculate presentation, and a demanding, multifaceted gameplay loop. Its verbose navigation in the latter half and some steep difficulty spikes keep it from being a must-have for every metroidvania fan, but the most dedicated players will find a rewarding challenge and a truly memorable journey in this small French gem.

If you love narrative-driven games and intricate puzzles you piece together one clue at a time, and you’re willing to embrace its roguelite mechanics, Blue Prince will enchant you. Dogubomb has crafted a true indie gem: a brilliant example of clever game design that stands out for its charm and creativity. Every detail feels intentional, with just the right amount of randomness to keep both logic-lovers and casual explorers engaged, though at times, it may push that randomness a bit too far. Is it a masterpiece? Hard to say. But it’s definitely a game you should experience, even if roguelikes aren’t usually your thing, and easily one of the most intriguing titles of early 2025.

CloverPit is a highly successful experiment that elevates the tension of gambling to a form of psychological horror based on risk management. The Panik Arcade team has successfully taken a mechanic founded on RNG and injected it with strategic depth reminiscent of the best deckbuilders available.

Blizzard successfully navigates the technical debt of two decades, delivering a cinematic restoration of Quel'Thalas that feels both hauntingly familiar and radically modern. While Midnight leans heavily on the fragile legacy of the Windrunners to fill its charisma void, the long-awaited Player Housing finally offers a persistent sanctuary rather than a mere battlefield. Despite some optimization hurdles and aggressive monetization in decor, this second chapter of the Worldsoul Saga is an essential, high-stakes evolution for the MMO genre.

Absolum puts and mixes together several already known themes and mechanics, but it does so in an overall original way, creating an absolutly enjoyable product, full of variet, twists and more. A little treasure that will be surely appreciated by beat'em up lovers.

Bye Sweet Carole is a game that stays with you even after you’ve finished it. Beneath its animated fairytale appearance lies a story that touches deep emotional chords — one of fear, guilt, and tenderness. Chris Darril delivers a mature and personal work, crafted with great attention to detail, where horror becomes a gentle language rather than a threat. It’s not a perfect title, but it’s sincere, and that makes it rare. Some choices may feel slow, but they serve to give the story room to breathe — allowing the player to truly feel what Lana Benton experiences. The art direction, music, and pacing merge into a narrative that strikes with both intensity and grace, remaining in memory more for what it suggests than for what it shows. Bye Sweet Carole doesn’t aim to astonish — it aims to stay with you. And it succeeds: with the sensitivity of a fairy tale that has lost its innocence, but not its ability to move you.

The question is always the same: is it really worth opening your wallet and buying this new incarnation of baseball from Sony San Diego Studio? Once again, the answer is yes, marked by steady growth without losing its identity, both in terms of gameplay and in its technical aspects and content. Everything that was already great about the series remains in MLB The Show 26, but this year too brings some interesting new features that make virtual baseball even more satisfying and believable. The revamped controls for batting and pitching will win over both newcomers and veteran players, while those who prefer not to change their style can still rely on the comfort zone of previous options. Sure, there’s no revolution, but it’s guaranteed fun for anyone who loves baseball—or perhaps wants to get closer to this fantastic sport.

Little Nightmares 3 doesn’t rewrite the rules of the saga, but it expands them intelligently. Supermassive Games inherits a remarkable legacy and translates it into a new cooperative grammar, where fear no longer stems from isolation, but from the possibility of losing the one beside you. The design remains true to the series’ poetics - environments that speak for themselves, ambient puzzles, silences loaded with meaning - while the online co-op introduces an emotional and gameplay dimension that feels surprisingly natural. There are some imperfections: slightly rigid controls, imprecise checkpoints, and an AI that occasionally hesitates. Yet the overall picture retains great artistic and technical value. Visually sumptuous, sonically unsettling, and always faithful to its dark fairy-tale vision, Little Nightmares 3 proves that the nightmare can evolve without losing its soul. An experience more empathetic, more alive and still capable of making you tremble.

It may not be the most “suitable” game to showcase the full potential of the Switch 2, but Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD Remaster remains a superb JRPG. The content is virtually identical to the 2013 original, so if you’ve already played it thoroughly, there’s little incentive to upgrade; otherwise, there’s no reason to look back, as this is the definitive edition of this small masterpiece. The release on Game-Key Card might make collectors raise an eyebrow, but the affordable price makes it a truly tempting purchase. A must-have for fans of the genre.

While Oblivion may not be the best Elder Scrolls game, it still packs a punch in 2025. Despite being a product of its time, it remains a thoroughly enjoyable experience—even with its original quirks and the occasional early-era bug. This is a game worth buying, if only for the joy of embarking on a long and wondrous journey through lands and characters you'll remember for years to come. A piece of gaming history that shouldn't be left behind—and likely a must-play if you've never experienced it before.

Bringing Frostpunk 2 to consoles was no small task, but the result is impressive. Technically, the game holds up remarkably well, with only a few reasonable compromises compared to high-end PCs. Performance is solid, and the transition to Xbox and PlayStation 5 feels natural. That said, there are a couple of drawbacks. Controller navigation—especially moving across hexes—can feel clunky, and the on-screen text is frustratingly tiny, even at maximum size. These issues aside, this is still the same outstanding city-builder we know: challenging, rewarding, and packed with tough decisions that keep you constantly balancing fleeting victories against looming crises. With its meticulous attention to detail, striking art direction, and relentless sense of urgency, Frostpunk 2 remains a must-play. Sure, you’ll need to accept some compromises, but the payoff—saving your people from the brink of extinction—is well worth it.

Helldivers 2 still got it: a year and a half after its release, Arrowhead's shooter is still extremely fun to play. A little less so to master. The sparse tutorial serves more as a metaphor for military inefficiency than an introduction to the game, but fortunately for Helldivers 2, there are still some players willing to help on the battlefield. The game brings with it the strengths and weaknesses of its PS5 counterpart on Xbox, and today the former still far outnumber the latter.

A true video game enthusiast cannot remain indifferent to the romantic figure of the solo developer who brings their creation to life driven by pure passion, even going so far as to program the game engine themselves just to translate their aspirations into the form they deem most authentic. If this developer then manages to craft a high-level gaming experience — one of the best in the metroidvania genre — supporting them becomes the least one can do, not just because it's the right thing to do, but because rewarding the most valuable and passionate projects is the best way to ensure we’ll see more beautiful games in the future. Experiencing something like Animal Well is an act of love, both for oneself and for video games.

Kirby Air Riders is pure adrenaline! It's the return that few expected but many longed for. A game that combines accessibility, style, a good level of customization, numerous challenges to tackle, and an infinite amount of content. The game's spirit and numerous game modes offer variety and a fun-filled experience. Technically solid, artistically top-notch, and with an explosive soundtrack, Sakurai's new project is one of Nintendo's best games of this year.

Stellar Blade doesn’t reinvent the action genre, but it delivers a well-balanced experience with precise combat, solid pacing, and a distinct visual identity. The PC version is impressively optimized, offering excellent performance, clean ultrawide support, and deep customization options. While the story treads familiar ground, the execution is polished and engaging. A technically refined port that rewards focus and delivers style without sacrificing substance.

Ride 6 is a game that works. It offers countless hours of fun on the track, as well as a wide range of content for players. Technically solid and featuring a satisfying riding system, enhanced by a new, more accessible Arcade mode, Ride 6 mainly focuses on continuity with the past, missing the opportunity to introduce some structural innovations. The festival concept could have been better utilized, as well as the inclusion of many world-famous riders, without fully capitalizing on their potential. Some minor flaws remain, but Ride 6 still manages to thrill motorcycle enthusiasts and bring to our consoles bikes that we could often only dream of. Once again, Milestone delivers a solid title, and if motorcycles are your passion, you definitely shouldn’t miss it!

Tainted Grail: The Fall of Avalon is not trying to reinvent the RPG genre—but it does reclaim something many games have lost: a sense of danger, weight, and consequence. Its combat is deliberate and punishing, its world compact but meaningful, and its progression system encourages thoughtful experimentation. There are still technical flaws to address—especially in melee hit detection and UI responsiveness—but with version 1.0, the game finally feels like a complete vision. It’s a dark, grounded experience that doesn't seek to flatter the player, only to challenge them. And in doing so, it finds its own voice.

Higher resolution, 60fps, and significantly reduced loading times are strong incentives to purchase this Nintendo Switch 2 Edition. The cheap upgrade price will surely appeal to fans of Monolith Soft’s JRPG, as it remains one of the few Nintendo productions that truly leans on presentation. However, keep in mind that neither the upscaling nor the performance feels truly “definitive,” as one might expect from a title originally released 11 years ago on the Wii U. Xenoblade Chronicles X is still a gem, and seeing it pushed beyond its original technical limits is priceless, save for the cost of admission, which in turn compels us to demand proper standards. While waiting for potential updates, it’s an easy recommendation for docked play; otherwise, a bit more consideration is advised.

Blue Prince is a must-play experience for mystery lovers that wisely blends roguelite elements with exploration and puzzle-solving. Retracing your steps, repositioning rooms in different ways, and using the tools you find along the way make every run, every day, both satisfying and essential to reaching the notorious 46th room. This is undoubtedly a production crafted with ingenuity, making its official debut on Nintendo Switch 2 in an all-around well-executed port. There are of course some technical issues — a few textures can appear slightly blurry and the framerate doesn't reach the peaks of the current generation — but let's be clear: Blue Prince is not a game that relies on buttery-smooth performance as its main selling point. Instead, it is a true adventure where paying close attention to every room, taking notes, and applying what you've learned to go deeper into the mansion is what really matters. No matter how many days it takes: Blue Prince pits you against yourself, makes you question everything, and sometimes makes you feel like a genuine genius when it comes to solving its puzzles.

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is an extremely fun spin-off, packed with content and mini-games, which brings back many elements already seen in the Yakuza saga and tries to vary them, as well as adding mechanics related to pirate activities. It’s hard to talk about new features, but the fact remains that everything works perfectly, except for some camera issues in the more crowded situations. What’s disappointing is the story, even though it was clear from the start that the project had a “crazy” tone. Like A Dragon has always been known for mixing serious and lighthearted moments, but this time the dramatic component is so underdeveloped that it feels almost negligible. From a technical standpoint, the Ryu Ga Gotoku team did an excellent job, really squeezing the power of their graphics engine and delivering another great soundtrack, but the fact remains that the path taken in this episode must remain a unique one, not affecting the themes of the main chapters. It was reasonable to expect a better balance between the two narrative lines, but the truth is, despite being derivative, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a spin-off that works and entertains for many hours, especially if you let yourself get carried away by the many side activities. Put on a funny hat and join Captain Goro Majima’s crew.

Tides of Tomorrow is a “plasticpunk” adventure (as defined by its developers), in which the choices we make in this bizarre world are also shaped by the decisions of our predecessors. The core concept is very simple: after awakening from our underwater slumber, we must follow in the footsteps of another player and set off on an adventure in a quirky world filled with iconic characters and surreal traits. The Story-Link feature is probably what impressed us the most: every situation we encounter across the various islands has already been experienced by another player, and the story will also evolve based on what they did. It’s a concept that may seem complex at first glance, but in practice it proves to be very rewarding, creating situations that are interesting and sometimes even amusing. Tides of Tomorrow took us on a very unusual journey— not always perfect, but absolutely satisfying for anyone looking to enjoy an original story that can be replayed by making different karmic choices. It’s impossible not to notice the developers’ boldness in proposing something new, without excessively imitating ideas already seen in other productions.

Replaced is a compelling journey into the cyberpunk world — an enterprising, bold adventure with a narrative that leaves its mark. From the very first minutes, you can feel the love for the genre and the nod to those worlds created by one of its most prominent figures: William Ford Gibson. Over the course of the 8/9 hours needed to complete the main story — or a full 15 if you want to uncover everything there is to find — you'll live through an epic that calls into question several themes of the genre and the importance of humanity within society. But above all, it raises an intriguing question: "Is an AI capable of experiencing human emotions?" Replaced treads paths already explored, but approaches them in its own way, daring to mix different characteristics. Granted, it doesn't always pull this off in the best possible manner, and there are moments where a certain sense of "forced" game design becomes noticeable — though this never compromises the enjoyment of the adventure in any meaningful way. Our recommendation remains to play it in its entirety, trying to collect every document in the world and not miss a single side mission (even if, for the most part, these amount to fetch quests). Unrest and trust in one's fellow man: that is how we might define what is, by all accounts, a solid cyberpunk experience.

A comeback like that of Heretic + Hexen shows that video game memory is not just nostalgia, but fertile ground for rediscovering bold ideas and atmospheres that defined an era. It’s an invitation to look back not with regret, but to appreciate what made the past great. Every milestone deserves to be rediscovered, restored, and celebrated.

Vampire Therapist is a very pleasant experience: we are talking about a Visual Novel that manages to introduce important and profound concepts of psychoanalysis within a safe, imaginative, and lighthearted context, while simultaneously leading the user to engage in quite a bit of self-analysis. A must-play for anyone interested in these themes.