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.

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.

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.

Donkey Kong Bananza is a great adventure and a good 3D platformer, not always great, but it makes up for it with the ambition and originality of the ideas it proposes. Conveying the spirit of the last chapters, made of extreme precision and endless attempts, would not have been easy within a completely destructible 3D world. Maybe that's why a softer path was chosen, which sometimes leaves you bewildered, just like being inside a mountain digging your fists in without knowing where to go. Perhaps, more simply, Donkey Kong Bananza is a good game, but not the epoch-making platformer that is expected at the launch of a new Nintendo console.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pokémon Pokopia has all the makings of one of the most successful spin-offs in the entire series. It doesn't attempt to reinvent or recycle the main series' competitive formula, but consciously chooses to create a relaxing yet profound game. It's the perfect blend of the creative freedom of a sandbox builder and the serenity of a life simulation: a perfect balance of construction, connection, and discovery. In other words, Pokopia has the flavor of Animal Crossing with a sprinkling of Dragon Quest Builders, but with a Pokémon twist. And this mix creates one of the most successful cozy games of recent years, capable of providing hours and hours of fun.

Death Stranding 2 is a narratively disappointing and mechanically over-similar sequel. It lacks the novelty of its predecessor, and the "likes" mechanic has less impact. The story relies too heavily on retcons and unexplained plot points, failing to provide sufficient motivation to continue. This makes the familiar gameplay loop, predominantly seen in Mexico and Australia, difficult to endure compared to the first game. Previously, various elements lightened the journey, making it more tolerable, but now the burden is acutely felt. Even a more cohesive and less convoluted narrative might not have made the experience entirely digestible, but it would have certainly eased the dozens of hours required to reach the end.

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!

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.

Monster Hunter Wilds is a new chapter that redefines the concept of hunting. Undoubtedly one of the GOTY contenders for 2025, it represents the culmination of years of evolution in the series, blending tradition and innovation in a vast, dynamic, and unpredictable world. The new mechanics, attention to environmental details, and diverse creatures promise a deep and rewarding experience for both veteran hunters and newcomers. This title has the potential to redefine the genre and set new standards for the franchise. The wait was long, but absolutely worth it.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Lonely Mountains: Snow Riders is the kind of game where the skier’s skill mirrors your own with the controller, exceedingly challenging yet deeply rewarding once mastered.Although the experience was great, there are some structural defects that can make success a little frustrating at times.

OPUS: Prism Peak is the most intimate and mature chapter in SIGONO's anthology. It is an introspective journey that moves away from the vastness of the cosmos to explore the fragile fragments of human memory through the lens of a camera. The interaction, centered entirely on photography, is original but becomes repetitive over time. The clunkiness of certain mechanics slows the pacing, making the gameplay the weak link in an otherwise profound experience. Visually stunning, the title blends the aesthetics of Japanese animation masters with a solid Taiwanese cultural heritage. The masterful use of lighting and a high-caliber soundtrack create a vibrant, dreamlike atmosphere capable of stirring emotions with every shot. Despite its ludic limitations, the game is a necessary cathartic ritual for those seeking auteur storytelling. It is a work that teaches us how to make peace with our ghosts and accept the weight of the past.

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.

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.

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.

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

2026 is a banner year for Capcom, and Pragmata is yet another hit. Beneath its ultra-modern, minimalist exterior lies old-school action, consisting of linear areas and levels. The innovation lies in the hacking system, which is used alongside classic shooting mechanics, turning every battle into a sort of real-time puzzle. The first playthrough flies by in about ten hours of fun, excitement, and thrills. The game places a strong emphasis on replayability, but unless you’re a completionist or obsessed with the various "builds" (combination of guns & hacking tools) you can create, it probably won’t last much longer than the end credits. However, Pragmata manages to convey what the game has to say very well right from the first playthrough.

Elementallis is a title that manages to impress above all for its heart, rather than its technical execution. The developers' love for the great classics is evident, and it shines through in every aspect of the game. The influences are clear and, in some cases, quite pronounced. The echoes of the older entries in The Legend of Zelda saga are apparent both in the world's structure and in the dungeon design and skill-based progression. Yet rather than feeling derivative, the game manages to use these inspirations as a foundation for building something personal. It is not a flawless experience — there are a few technical rough edges and controls that could be improved. The lack of Italian localisation is also a missed opportunity, as it would certainly have drawn in more players. And yet, it is hard not to be drawn in by its atmosphere, its eagerness to invite exploration, and the satisfaction that comes from mastering its mechanics. In an increasingly crowded market, Elementallis still manages to stand out. It is a journey that does not aim to dazzle with special effects, but to win you over slowly, step by step, element by element.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The strength of Lies of P: Overture is all in the lore (in part), without disdaining the gameplay (great!), for a satisfying but edgy result, with the same defects of the original game, but also the same merits. Certainly less incisive on the plot factor, but always iconic and fun.

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.

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.

Anno 117: Pax Romana stands as a refined and confident city builder, yet one that plays it a little too safe. Its strength lies in its balance, precision, and attention to detail, but that same restraint keeps it from reaching true greatness. A deeper narrative, a more dynamic religious system, and bolder moral choices could have given this empire more soul. It’s a stable, beautifully crafted experience—but one that makes you wish Rome had dared more.

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.

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.

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.

Indiana Jones isn't one to compromise, yet to embark on his quest for the Ancient Circle on Switch 2, he's settled for a now-retro resolution (1080p or 720p in handheld mode) locked at 30 FPS. In exchange, he's gained mouse and motion controls (though the latter aren’t exactly precise). After all, there are plenty of better ways to play Indiana Jones and the Ancient Circle, including on a handheld, but the technical effort to adapt it to Switch 2 is commendable, and it must be acknowledged that the core of the game remains intact.

The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon not only delivers an epic conclusion to the Calvard arc, but also represents a major turning point in the shared narrative of the entire Trails universe. The story is once again expertly told, as fans of the series have come to expect, with major plot twists that cast new light on much of what we believed we knew about this rich and compelling setting. Great care is given to the cast, supported by an enormous amount of dialogue that further brings the world to life. However, the lack of an Italian localization may prove to be a significant barrier for non-English speakers, and some sections suffer from an excessive amount of dialogue, occasionally disrupting the overall pacing. Gameplay is more refined and satisfying than ever, with the turn-based combat system truly shining and reaching new levels of depth. The soundtrack does not disappoint, featuring several tracks that immediately stick in your head, while the visual presentation remains the game’s Achilles’ heel, once again feeling like it belongs to a project from two generations ago. Of course, no one plays Nihon Falcom titles for their visuals, but it’s hard not to wonder when we’ll finally see this talented team working with a more adequate budget—a question I find myself asking in far too many of their reviews. That said, The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizon stands as an excellent JRPG that more than capably closes a long-running narrative arc, while laying solid foundations for the future of a saga that should not be overlooked.

Dragon Quest I&II HD-2D Remake is an interesting restoration effort, with both titles polished to perfection thanks to Square Enix’s excellent work. We’re looking at two games that made RPG history (and not only that), now brought back with a respectable HD-2D visual style and enhanced with a few smart tweaks aimed at making them more accessible to modern gamers — without compromising their original spirit. That said, these are still two inherently old-school titles (if you’ll pardon the term), inevitably tied to the earliest foundations of JRPG mechanics. Nevertheless, all the development team’s efforts (including a superb reworking of the soundtrack) allow every fan of the genre to enjoy, without compromise, two cornerstones of video game history — which, incidentally, had never officially reached our market before. If you’re fully aware that you can’t expect 1980s games to have modern gameplay, you can safely grab this pair of remakes and witness an essential lesson from two milestones without which we probably wouldn’t know JRPGs as they are today.

Re-releasing a game multiple times doesn't seem wrong to us; the important thing is to do it wisely and strive to deliver the best possible experience to players at the time. Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage is being released on Nintendo Switch 2 in a less than appealing package with very little content, despite the desire to add some freshness with the World Stage mode. Regarding online play, unfortunately, the situation isn't the best: finding players could be more challenging than expected, considering how sparsely populated it is currently. However, netcode rollback can sometimes ensure (under the right conditions) a decent online experience.On Nintendo Switch 2, Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage runs well, although the graphics aren't exactly spotless (a situation that improves with portability). For the proposed price (€19.99) it manages to guarantee some pleasant combat: but if you are looking for online competition, well, perhaps other competitors are doing better on this front at the moment.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ninja Theory remains faithful to its vision by delivering a game that focuses far more on narrative and technical achievement than on action. The result is an experience that must be analyzed in parts: technically outstanding, yet lacking on the gameplay side.The Enhanced version could have introduced the improvements the game truly needed, without altering its identity. Instead, the additions feel more like secondary elements that add little to the overall experience. What remains for the player is a powerful story, rich in emotions and excellently told, guiding them from start to finish, now enhanced with a new permadeath mode and the option to play at 60 FPS. The confirmation of the same score given to the version released a year ago should not be seen as a strength of the title.As such, the game is recommended for those who have not yet played Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2, while those who already experienced Senua’s second journey will find nothing new in the Enhanced version.

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.

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.

Visions of Four Heroes builds upon an already strong foundation with extra character development and new content. Fans of Dynasty Warriors: Origins will enjoy it, but the €35 price tag is difficult to justify. At half the price, it would be an easy recommendation.

Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound is a successful experiment in blending past and present, combining Tecmo's legacy with the auteur vision of The Game Kitchen. It's not perfect, and perhaps not the masterpiece some were expecting, but it's a solid, entertaining title—artistically inspired and technically well-executed. A return to its roots that doesn’t just look backward, but manages to say something new using the language of the classic.

Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is an excellent port that brings a pleasant and captivating tactical experience to the Nintendo Switch 2, already praised on other platforms since 2017. The gameplay is identical to the original, and compared to the PC, Xbox, and PS5 versions, it includes the Aiko’s Choice DLC, making it the Complete Edition developed by Mimimi Games. The game retains the strengths of the original and its few weaknesses, offering deep strategic gameplay and a solid technical foundation, although the learning curve is steep and even the lowest difficulty setting may pose a challenge for less experienced players. Notably, the ability to use the Joy‑Con controllers as a pointer is a great solution for tactical games on consoles. However, in handheld mode, the game is hard to read on the 7.9‑inch Switch 2 screen: even when zoomed in, on-screen elements appear quite small. In conclusion, Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is an excellent old-school stealth strategy game arriving on Nintendo’s new flagship console.

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.

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.

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.

Islanders: New Shores returns with a revamped look, two modes to choose from, 50 unique levels, and plenty of buildings to make the experience highly customizable. The strategic element plays a crucial role and may seem limiting at some points, but it never proves tedious and manages to entertain for countless hours. The simple settings, clear and intuitive interface, and pleasant soundtrack come together and make for a truly relaxing experience.

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.

Planet of Lana 2: Children of the Leaf is a work of extraordinary beauty that confirms Wishfully’s knack for creating stunning and enchanting worlds. Children of the Leaf also serves as a demonstration of maturity for the studio. They’ve showcased their core strengths, like superlative storytelling and an artistic direction that rivals high-budget productions, while making amends for past shortcomings by refining the gameplay mechanics that raised some eyebrows in the first chapter. However, there remains an underlying over-reliance on references, both artistically and mechanically. While pleasant at first, this becomes somewhat cloying in the final hours. The game would have certainly benefited from a touch of "arrogance" on the part of the developers. Planet of Lana 2 is a title that comes agonizingly close to perfection, yet falls short due to excessive caution. It teases grand ideas but offers only a taste of them; the most frustrating part is that it does so with full awareness of its own immense potential.

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.

Dragon Quest VII Reimagined breathes new life into a historic title, even if the original product wasn’t exactly unmissable. The operation carried out by Square Enix is truly solid and showcases the Japanese company’s expertise, which by now has become more than well-established in this field. The three-dimensional graphics blend perfectly with the isometric perspective and the design of the original game, where Akira Toriyama’s artwork never disappoints. While the technical execution is impeccable, the fact remains that Dragon Quest VII Reimagined carries over the structural limitations of a gameplay formula that now feels outdated. The new features introduced to streamline it, though welcome, don’t quite perform the miracle of making it feel modern. The story is enjoyable to follow (despite additions and cuts), the cast is somewhat limited but sufficiently characterized, and the music is of high quality, as is the Italian text localization. There are certainly other Square Enix titles waiting to be brought back, but Dragon Quest VII Reimagined still manages to be appreciated—especially by those who don’t mind extremely traditional gameplay.

Atelier Ryza: Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack is a very tempting opportunity for anyone who wants to dive into one of the longest-running JRPG series, and Ryza’s trilogy is certainly among the best in the franchise. The DX editions of the three titles come loaded with tons of content and a few improvements over the originals, though not quite enough to recommend a replay for those who have already experienced them—unless you’re truly passionate about Ryza and her friends. The inability to import save data from previous versions clips the wings of long-time fans, but the fact remains that for anyone who’s never played an Atelier Ryza before, this bundle is absolutely perfect. That said, some minor graphical flaws could have easily been avoided, and this could have been the perfect chance to finally add Italian text. A lighthearted story with plenty of intertwining threads, solid artistic direction, refined mechanics both in combat and alchemy, and the wide-open environments of the third chapter make Atelier Ryza: Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack a highly recommended experience if you’re looking for an accessible JRPG trilogy packed with content, variety, and dozens of hours of gameplay at a great price. From the first to the third chapter, you’ll witness a true evolution. Have you always looked at the Atelier series from afar, yet with curiosity? Ryza offers you an unmissable chance to explore a new universe—not perfect, but full of charm.

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.

Between finely crafted gameplay and moments of pure frustration, Grime II manages to keep players engaged thanks to a high, consistent, and mostly fair level of challenge. Some questionable design choices and a certain rigidity hold it back, but die-hard fans of the genre will know how to master it, especially if they enjoyed the first game. The series is on the right track and just a step away from becoming a must-have.

Death Howl is a game that deserves attention, certainly for its story—while not particularly original, it is well told—and it offers partially satisfying gameplay. However, its shortcomings are somewhat the classic ones of the genre; if you fail to keep player interest high amid repetitive action, the risk of losing engagement is significant.

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.

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.

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.

Even the base version of Hell Clock is worth the purchase: it’s one of the most addictive roguelite experiences I can recall. It’s fun, engaging, and offers impressive depth and customization. The endgame still lacks some longevity, but the developers are highly active and already have plenty of updates planned through early 2026. If you're a fan of the genre and enjoy a more hack 'n' slash take on the classic formula, Rogue Snail’s title will keep you great company through the hot August days and well beyond.

Achilles: Survivor shows promising design and a solid gameplay core, blending the survivors-like formula with light strategy and mythological flair. The tactical construction system adds genuine depth, and the loop is engaging across multiple runs. However, the current content offering is modest, and performance issues are still present. With continued updates, it could grow into a standout title.

NBA 2K26 hits the ground running as a complete and solid game in every respect, featuring a technical department up to the task, the series’ classic gameplay further refined and free of major flaws, and a substantial number of modes designed to keep you engaged with new content available at the start of each season, all the way until the next installment in the franchise.

Anyone with a penchant for narrative-driven video games should check out Aether & Iron: the captivating setting, the criminal undertones, and the wide variety of characters encountered and locations visited guarantee entertainment. Furthermore, there's the tactical component, which, without overdoing it, manages to offer a satisfying challenge. Seismic Squirrel's offering is certainly not without its flaws—at times it's a bit too textual and not visual—but it will win over those willing to immerse themselves in its story.

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.

Ninja Gaiden 4 is a result of its production model, a niche game that must appeal to all gamers at the same time; and despite a few missteps, it succeeds in this difficult task. Hero Mode allows everyone to explore Yakumo's gruesome ninja frenzy while learning the defense techniques that allow you to climb the difficulty levels. By raising the bar each time you finish the game, even veterans will soon find something to sink their teeth into. The price to pay is subdued level design and annoying backtracking. The reward for those who persevere is the usual over-the-top madness with which Team Ninja tackles the subject matter.

Tale of Graces F Remastered revisits a title that, even in its original release, was not able to reach the peak of the Tales of series but still remained an enjoyable and appreciated entry with its traditional approach.The Tales of Graces F Remastered follows safe tracks with a solid and tested gameplay formula, though the story loses its momentum over time: it has a great start, but becomes somewhat predictable in the latter half.The combat system doesn’t disappoint, it offers the players a satisfying sense of mastery that grows with time, and the abundance of content will certainly please completists.However, the technical aspects are a bit underwhelming: despite a graphical update, there are elements that could have needed more care and attention.The soundtrack, too, deserved more refinement. Still, Bandai Namco has presented Tales of Graces F Remastered at an affordable price, making it an accessible offering for fans. Not a masterpiece, but a pleasant dive into a title that's easy to enjoy.

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.

Capcom Fighting Collection 2 offers a series of historic fighting games from the great Japanese company, returning in editions that are extremely faithful to the past, with filters that enhance playability and some extras. Compared to the first installment, this collection has fewer options, featuring some significant titles, but others that had already raised some eyebrows back in the day. Not to mention that including the sequel to the legendary Rival Schools without allowing players to experience the first episode is puzzling. Nevertheless, it’s a more than honest production, where Power Stone 2 and Capcom vs. SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium 2001 are two gems not to be missed. Perhaps a somewhat basic effort, but still aimed at nostalgic fans.

Two Point Museum attempts to bring the vastness of its content to Switch 2, but the price to pay is a series of technical issues that increase as the museums expand. The mechanics are all there, but customization beyond a certain limit is handled with difficulty by the Nintendo console, causing jerks, glitches, and crashes. The attempt is commendable, but if you can, it's better to play it elsewhere.

Bionic Bay is hardcore as it is intended to be: minimal graphics, a system full of randomness, progressively increasing difficulty and a lot of frustration that will take you away from the screen just enough to make you return a few hours later more motivated than before. It is not a game to be taken lightly and is definitely worth the time you dedicate to it, especially if you want to try online rankings.

Tribute Games proves they know how to handle beat'em up genre with a solid fighting game that draws on arcade tradition to offer gameplay suitable for everyone, with slight innovations that enrich rather than disrupt. The added value of MARVEL Cosmic Invasion is obviously the use of characters from the House of Ideas, well depicted and effectively translated into pixels, with enough variety to satisfy even those who join the party just to throw punches, without knowing too much about the guys in costumes.

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.

Ultimately, Marathon presents itself as a kind of digital Rorschach test in which each player projects their own tolerance thresholds for frustration and aesthetic fascination: it is a work dedicated to gunplay fetishists who demand a physical response to every mouse input, and to those who, tired of the reassuring linearity of modern blockbusters, seek the thrill of fragmented and brutal storytelling. The shift toward the extraction shooter genre proves to be a bold strategic move to test the limits of competition, attracting anyone curious to see how the DNA of 1994 has mutated under Ziegler’s vision, while simultaneously forcefully repelling those who look for a guided approach or a minimalist UI. It is not a game for those who detest extraction anxiety or the permanent loss of loot, since the absence of waypoints and the informational overload of the HUD require a cognitive investment that many might find exhausting. Those with modern hardware and ultrawide displays will derive the greatest visual pleasure from this chromatic jungle, but they will still have to reckon with a system that gives nothing away and turns every mistake into a definitive erasure. Marathon, ultimately, is a technological shell that admits no compromises: either one accepts living within its distortions, or one is rejected by the system like obsolete code.

Mouse: P.I. is an experience that wins you over more with personality than with technical ambition—a first-person shooter that stands out thanks to a striking artistic identity, mature noir writing, and a sound design that works in perfect harmony with its visuals and narrative. The solid, immediate gunplay supports the entire structure without overshadowing the atmosphere, while Troy Baker’s performance becomes the emotional glue of a dark and compelling journey, making the game something of a cult favorite for those who love classic cinema, jazz, and stories of detectives worn down by their own world.

If this game would have used Ninja Gaiden 2 as a starting point with "Black" as a refinement, it could have been the ultimate version. Unfortunately,it's a heavily reworked take on Sigma 2, missing not only some bosses from Sigma but also key elements from the original NG2, such as enemy placement and their strength. What remains intact is the series' signature, unparalleled gameplay, keeping it among the must-play action titles; if not for the existence of Itagaki’s Ninja Gaiden 2, which remains superior and unmatched.

Progress has definitely been made since last year, no doubt about it, but we're still not convinced F1 25 is worth the price of admission for returning players. The handling, AI, and visuals have all seen minor improvements, and there’s no shortage of content, with singleplayer additions that may appeal to less competitive fans. There are incentives to upgrade, but mostly if you’re passionate about the sport and enjoy wheel-to-wheel racing, eager to stay up to date with the driver roster and follow the community. Otherwise, unless you're a big fan of Braking Point, you're not missing much. Could more be done? Absolutely. But for an annual release, we can’t expect miracles. Maybe with the 2026 regulation shake-up, we'll finally see something really new. Who knows.

Suikoden I&II HD Remaster Gate Rune and Dunan Unification Wars is a production containing two jewels of the history of video games that finally return to our screens and, thanks to the work of Namco Bandai, acquire new lifeblood. To our great joy, a complete and punctual tradition arrives in Italian, allowing anyone to enjoy the original work of the late Yoshitaka Murayama, creator of the saga. The result of these remasterings in HD is good, but does not reach the peaks of recent works such as the remastered of Dragon Quest III, still maintaining an appreciable level also thanks to the effort of Junk Kawano and a soundtrack that is still of the highest quality today.

Fans of classic Demeo will love it, but those who were expecting a major revolution in the game's infrastructure will be a little disappointed. However, and this is good news, it can also be played on a device that doesn't require virtual reality.

Tempest Rising isn’t just a nostalgic nod to classic RTS—it’s a carefully crafted return to a genre that has long deserved more attention. While the interface can feel clunky at times and the audio design doesn’t quite leave a lasting impression, the overall experience is cohesive and confident. Rather than reinventing the formula, it builds upon a familiar foundation with clarity and intent, delivering a gameplay structure that feels both respectful and relevant. For fans of Red Alert and Tiberian Sun, it offers an instant sense of belonging—grounded, engaging, and refreshingly self-aware.

PGA Tour 2K25 is a good leap forward from the previous chapter in numerous respects. Prominent is the revamped control system, EvoSwing, which aims to replicate on the right stick the swing of the golf club on the grass. but also from the point of view of graphics, sound and modes we can appreciate some new introductions, not as relevant as EvoSwing, but still appreciable. As for the outline, however, the direction taken is leading the series toward the standard sportsman structure, which in our opinion does not lend itself well to this discipline.

Fantasy Life i: the Girl who Steals Time brings without difficulty the artistic style, the fresh and varied gameplay and in general all the potential of the brand to the current hardware generation. Good for everyone, beautiful for the younger ones, Level-5's work suggest us that we have to expect, and even wait for, other Fantasy Life games in the future.