Cairn has now become one of my favourite games of all time. I absolutely love the game’s reactive climbing mechanics, the tough-but-fair difficulty, and its entire presentation is simply gorgeous. Even though there aren’t really any changes between playthroughs, this is a game I’ll be regularly coming back to, if only to continue experiencing the thrill of the climb over and over again.

As a team-based and tactics-first game with no Goomba-splatting butt bouncing on show (although, stomping’s an option), and no 3D platforming to be ever so precise about, Sparks of Hope may still remain on the periphery of the radar for some Mario admirers. But for anyone who was on the fence about Kingdom Battle and ultimately didn’t pick it up, know this: you’ll be missing out on a really special Switch exclusive, a triumph of IP-twisting fun and frolics, if you let a little nonsensical genre bias get in the way.

The close-knit community and setting made the grief feel all the more suffocating and as the player, you try your hardest to inject hope back into the world. Whether that means bringing fading relationships back to life, giving someone a purpose again or just being the quiet presence that somebody needs. Despite my issues, I believe Closer the Distance is a title that should be experienced for yourself as your story may turn out different to mine.

It may have taken nearly four decades, but the first mainline Zelda game with the titular princess in the lead role was worth the wait. This is a magnificent adventure that whizzes and pops with imagination, and proudly stands shoulder to shoulder with the very best of Link’s tales. If this is the Switch’s final Zelda game - and surely it has to be - then we’re going out on a high.

I can see that while I play, The Outer Worlds is everything needed and expected from a first-person RPG, one that can then be expanded on in the future, with innovative systems, original worlds, and unexpected characters - they now have a hub to fit into. The problem for players is: why play this game instead of waiting for the one that fully escapes the shadow of Fallout?

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered offers a reminder of why this franchise is here to stay, as if we needed one. Guerrilla Games’ storytelling and world building is industry leading, and with the help of Nixxes, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered imbues itself with the lessons learnt from the development of the original game’s successor, Forbidden West. You may not have thought it possible, but this version of Aloy’s world is even more beautiful, with Nixxes’ subtle attention to detail resulting in a space that feels even more immersive and brimming with life. When you can upgrade for just £10, there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t.

If you do decide to get Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut you’ll be getting one of the greatest games ever made, enhanced, on your shiny new Nintendo Switch 2, the decision will come down to whether you’ve played it before and fancy playing it again but via the definitive version.

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is an exceptional sequel, improving on every gripe fans had with Fallen Order while adding countless new features in that’ll keep players engrossed for a long, long time. It’ll take something really special to come out to stop Survivor being the best action/adventure game of 2023.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn’t just one of the best games of the year so far, it’s the new yardstick by which all future Assassin’s Creed games should be measured. This is an epic, sweeping adventure bolstered by jaw-dropping visuals and a masterful blend of stealth, action, and exploration. You don’t want to miss this one.

Konami has improved on near-perfection by leaving all the original story beats, cutscene direction and dialogue alone, and instead, focused all of its attention on improving the visuals and gameplay experience. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a masterpiece reborn. I envy those who are new to this series, who are going to experience this game for the very first time, but for those returning, they will have a long-lost love rekindled.

Pragmata truly is a triumph. The mix of hacking and shooting forces you to find a rhythm in combat and depending on what enemies are on the field and what equipment you have, the tempo can vary significantly. Combat never felt like it was outstaying its welcome nor did it feel repetitive. The Cradle is an excellent setting both in terms of story and environment variety so while backtracking for collectibles felt like a pain at times, it was still rewarding to revisit those areas to see what I originally missed. Hugh and Diana really are a dynamic duo and it was a pleasure to see their friendship develop; the humanity both of these characters bring to the plot is essential for the narrative to work and it was refreshing to have protagonists that aren’t carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders at all times. It made for higher stakes when the pair were in genuine danger and levity during the story’s quieter moments.

By the end of my adventure, I’d questioned so much about friendships, how society treats each other, and how emotions shape our outlook on the world. I was sad when it ended, I could have stayed here for many more hours. Citizen Sleeper 2 asks big questions, but never bludgeons you over the head with subtext, it simply asks you what you’d do in a certain situation, playing a chosen role. It does so, bolstered by a robust dice-rolling system, and some genuinely astonishing writing, as if you were playing a TTRPG with your best friend guiding your hand.

As I said at the very top of this review though, Octopath Traveler II is overflowing with heart and soul, and is an absolute joy to experience. Ever since I loaded up the game, I’ve wanted to do little more than explore Solistia, perfect my team and fight all the tough bosses I can find, even if only to listen to the outstanding music that will surely accompany the fight. If you’re going to dedicate your time to any long RPG this year, let it be this one.

As one of the Wii U's best games, Pikmin 3's arrival on Switch is welcome indeed. Already beautiful, its visuals didn't need much attention; and the controls, while initially a little fiddly, will click after a couple of days' exploration. It's great that more people will now play this compelling, oddly affecting strategic-puzzler (with a hefty splash of terror stirred in, no matter the low expense of the expendables).

Thirty-one years on from LeChuck’s Revenge, and Return to Monkey Island is confident about what it is, why it is, and who it’s for. This is swashbuckling point-and-click shenanigans of a most splendiferously convivial complexion that everyone who ever stuck a cue-tip in a stone monkey’s lughole or took a ride around Big Whoop, delighted in asking about Loom or half-inched a hairpiece to fashion a voodoo doll, will adore. It’s fan service that doesn’t forget to make itself half-approachable to beginners, and while its 20th century roots are showing there won’t be many rookies who’ll fail to step in time with its distinctive rhythms. While its puns might sometimes elicit a groan, so cordial is this game’s atmosphere, so genial its eccentric cast, that Return to Monkey Island can’t be received as anything less than a wholesome triumph for wannabe me-hearties everywhere.

While it’s far from perfect, I can safely recommend A Space for the Unbound to anyone looking for a cosy indie title with real emotional weight imbued within.

If you liked any of the previous games in the series, then it’s difficult to see how you won’t love this one. It takes some big steps forward and improves on all of the big systems that have been carried across from the previous entry. The map is beautiful and more detailed than ever, with the new population systems informing how it takes shape, something it does very naturally as the game progresses. It’s absolutely the standout in the genre for the time period it covers, and if we have to go another twelve years before we get another one, then at the very least we’ve got a great strategy game to play in the meantime.

Kirby’s long been there when it comes to Nintendo’s most commonly seen characters. There have been several very good games, but perhaps no out-and-out classic that went beyond appealing primarily to already invested fans of HAL’s creations. Kirby and the Forgotten Land should be that title, though. It deserves to do for Kirby what Super Mario 64 did for Nintendo’s mascot, and what Ocarina of Time achieved for Link’s adventures across Hyrule. It’s that good, that accomplished, that slick and sumptuous and gosh-darn spectacular, and represents a near-essential addition to any Switch collection regardless of your usual tastes in games.

Tetris Forever isn’t just for historians and archivists who want to know more about the franchise. It’s a treasure trove of joy that rolls back the years and shows that with a simple formula, games can last forever. If you enjoy the classic game, this is the definitive way to play it. Sure, there might not be a lot in rewatching the historical segments over and over, but they’re simply extra flavouring in a banquet of gaming that is already delectable in every form.

Those that found Crash to be one of the clunkier and more irritating platforming mascots from the old days probably won't have their minds changed by this latest outing. But on the other hand, if you grew up loving Crash Bandicoot, you're going to adore Crash Bandicoot 4: It's About Time. I promise you that. Toys For Bob set out to create an authentic sequel, and in that regard this game is a stunning success.

Much like Elden Ring, and Breath Of The Wild before it, Tunic offers yet more proof that there’s still a place for games that let go of our hands and allow us to figure things out for ourselves. Even as I write these words, several hours after rolling credits on the challenging and consistently surprising 10-hour adventure, I can’t help but wonder what secrets Tunic has left for me to discover.

Writing this review has only made me love the game more, because I’m sitting here reflecting on the lovely moments of achieving success through the loops of exploring and finding cool stuff to line the halls of my buildings. As far as I’m concerned, this is the best entry in the Two Point series and if you were already a fan of those, you’re going to adore this trip through history.

I’m in awe of its aesthetic, particularly the protagonist and his long, blue hair. I love the intense, nu-rock soundtrack that plays during a typical fight, and I could spend hours vibing to the jazzy score that accompanies you when walking through the school. The variety of demons is fantastic. The characters are unique yet reminiscent of ones who’ve come before. It’s a game I could play for hours, even with multiple deaths halting my progress at what always feels like the worst possible moment.

Despite the requirement of having to participate in practice sessions, Forza Motorsport is a near-perfect racer that’s worth its weight in gold. It takes advantage of the capabilities of the Xbox Series X and then some, pushing the boundaries of what’s expected of the modern console racing sim. If you’re a PC gamer or owner of an Xbox Series X/S and a racing fan, Forza Motorsport is a must-own for fans of the genre.

Mortal Kombat 1 doesn't do a lot to push its boundaries and largely plays it safe, but it’s still amongst the best entries in this series. Its campaign continues to set the standard once more for its genre, it looks absolutely gorgeous on Xbox Series X|S and it’s packed full of content that will keep fans entertained for years to come. We’ve already been blessed with the amazing Street Fighter 6 this year and with Mortal Kombat 1 joining the ranks as one of the best fighting games in years, it’s certainly a great time for fans of the genre.

Yakuza: Like a Dragon is a game of universal appeal. A modern RPG with retro callbacks, it celebrates its past enough for veterans without excluding newcomers. With world class voice acting, and generation-defining visuals, it's a must-play game that easily earns its place on next-gen consoles. Characters are fascinating, the map is stunning, and the way the story incorporates real-world themes to deliver a first-rate dramatic experience means Yakuza: Like a Dragon deserves a spot on everyone's 2020 top 10 games lists.

While the mechanics at times can be frustrating, Guardians of the Galaxy is a really enjoyable experience that I would recommend to a wide audience: for fans of all things Marvel, action games, and stories that dare to go that step further in relating a compelling fantasy to hugely relevant real-world matters.

There’s also humour here, sometimes laugh-aloud and sometimes deadpan in the face of absolutely awful situations, and an element of pathos that goes deeper than expected with a few characters. Sometimes it misses its mark - Luka has a few dreams that are only narrated where it’d have brought something more to his relationship with the town and his parents (and their associates, ssssh) to actually see these visions as he does, especially because there’s one sepia-hued flashback that we do get to play through (and multiple times, too) - but Beacon Pines is a consistently enthralling experience which you’ll really want to see through to its end.

Strange Antiquities is a game I’ll look back on as one of my firm unexpected highlights of 2025. Its intoxicating formula is incredibly moreish and as the cool, autumn nights draw in, there’s no place I’d rather be than assisting the residents of Undermere with their strange and unsettling conundrums.

Happily, the good times for Dragon Quest fans are very much continuing with the release of the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake. It looks great, it plays well and it’s solid value for money with the amount of playtime you get across both games. Almost every system has been carefully crafted and improved, and it’s tough to point out areas where major flaws really let the game down. Though it perhaps doesn’t quite reach the near-perfect levels of III, it might actually just come down to a matter of taste, over which aesthetic you like more, or which story you’re most into.

Those very minor issues aside, Keep Driving is one of the most impressively original and utterly charming games you’ll play this year. Regardless of where you’re headed, I promise you the journey will be worth it.

On the whole, I got a lot of joy from Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, and perhaps in different hands, more skilled hands, the opinion would be even more positive. Perhaps those who will play this, yearning for the days of TMNT in a grotty arcade will get a kick out of the quirks and eccentricities here. I have my complaints, but I’d still recommend this game to everyone I know who likes a challenge or appreciates the retro style.

It’s hard to deny Dragon Quest III HD-2D is anything other than the perfect remake. It’s a faithful recreation that does an admirable job of fixing up the creakier aspects of a nearly 40 year old game while keeping the original’s spirit very much intact. While it may be a little tough to recommend to anyone new to Dragon Quest (or RPGs in general), longtime fans of the series will find a lot to love.

Still, the time I’ve spent with Terra Nil has been an absolute delight, and a much-needed antidote to the hustle and bustle of modern life. Get yourself under a blanket on a rainy day with a cup of chamomile and I promise you this reverse city builder will hit just right. You might even learn a thing or two.

Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream has it all. Between its thoughtful gameplay and enrapturing world, like the light-footed Hanna, River End Games hasn’t put a step wrong. It’s easily one of the most enjoyable games I’ve played this year and a welcomed reminder that creativity and talent can still find a platform to shine within our troubled industry.

Vaguely stale combat and an open world with little to offer beyond the castle grounds aside, it’s hard to consider Hogwarts Legacy as anything other than a success for the Harry Potter fans who have waited this long for their letter. This is a strong adventure with more than enough magic to ensure players will be attending classes long after the credits roll.

In the end, all these similarities and influences from Village's contemporaries both do and don't work. It feels in places pieced together, and in others truly exceptional in its genre. But the overarching experience is an undoubtedly fun one that expands on the foundations laid down by Resident Evil 7, and sets up the inevitable trilogy finale being planned for Resident Evil 9. Not all of the risks taken pay off, but when they do, Resident Evil Village is thrilling, spine-chilling and worthy continuation of the groundwork laid by its predecessor.

For the most part, this has been an enjoyable adventure, but not one without its problems. I don’t feel connected to the characters, nor moved to go back to learn more about the franchise. Once George is done with this tale, I will be too. I wish it had been an incredible glimpse into the past like it has for so many others. Unfortunately for me, Broken Sword: Shadow of the Templars Reforged ended up being further proof that nostalgia is a potent emotion that colours our opinions

That most of the game takes place in a virtual world constructed from a dying man's fading memories, accessed via high-tech headsets and computer programs, is purely a background element in a fulfilling, affecting experience that will leave most players solemn and silent at its end, but happy, too. Because while To the Moon is definitely a sad game, warm and generous humour runs through it, especially in the interactions between the two doctors.

Grunn really is one of the best surprises of this year. It’s a testament, I think, to both the central mystery of Grunn and its genuinely brilliantly designed simulated gardening, that a video game about trimming the same three hedges over and over again could be this good.

Super Mario RPG is the perfect remake of one of Nintendo’s very finest games, and I’m so very glad it’s about to find a whole new audience. This is an adventure that’s fizzing with invention, unforgettable characters, and sharp writing. One final, joyous surprise for Switch owners in 2023.

Beserk Boy is more than a collection of influences and references thrown together. It has its own, clear sense of identity, and offers up a genuinely challenging and stunning action platformer that rewards replayability and exploration. Modern touches like extra side missions, an upgrade shop, and the added oomph modern hardware can offer a 16-bit game are all cherries atop what is already a delicious sundae.

I’ve never been so in love with a game that downright hates me. A game that, on some level feels archaic and overtly obtuse, but also features so many ways to try and solve the puzzle of survival that it's more engaging than a lot of roguelikes coming out today.

DOOM: The Dark Ages is an action-packed, cinematic, glorious delight, and with the bonus of it being a prequel, it could be an ideal entry point for those new to the series. Depending on how 2025 continues to play out, it wouldn't surprise me if DOOM: The Dark Ages is a topic of hot discussion as a Game of the Year contender.

Ghost of Tsushima is a fine open-world game. It ticks all the boxes of what you would expect it to do - but it doesn't do anything more than that. This is one of the last exclusive games for the PlayStation 4, and it's disappointing that it has nothing new to say.

Astro's Playroom is just that; a playroom for the next generation - a small glimpse into what the PlayStation 5 will be able to do with the DualSense.

Persona 5 Strikers is a fantastic game. It embraces the hack and slash genre without losing that signature Persona feel, and with more success than Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity does. The characters are wonderful, the gameplay is fun and rewarding, and the dialogue reaches similar highs to previous games. There are times where the self-awareness and fan service are a bit much, but overall, Persona 5 Strikers is a great game in its own right, for newcomers and fans alike.

All in all, Ace Attorney Investigations is a simple and efficient package. Collecting two games that weren’t received well on launch and giving them an HD makeover. If you’re a fan of Ace Attorney games and haven’t played these titles, this is a fine way of doing so with the bonus features and gameplay options being the cherry on top of the cake.

This is without a doubt the definitive way to experience the Splatoon series going forward, especially with the promise of new updates for the next two years. The fast-paced gameplay is as fluid and compelling as ever, and the various loveable residents of Splatsville are going to become fan favourites, fast.

Overall, it’s the multiplayer that remains as Battlefield 6’s greatest strength, as it always has for this series. Well-designed maps and strong teamplay features make for interesting online rounds. This bleeds out into other aspects of the game; the gunplay, the weapon customisation, and the destruction mechanics. It’s punchy, direct, and exciting. It all feels carefully tuned to how players have wanted the game to be like since the golden era of the series.

In truth, I'll never be able to explain the sheer level of brilliance within Nier Replicant, partly because of spoilers. What we have here is a story that will last the ages, contained within a game full of remarkable characters, beautiful-yet-haunting environments, satisfying gameplay and music that will be forever recorded in your heart. Nier Replicant ver.1.22474487139... is perfect.

Two Point Campus is a charming yet chaotic management sim with tons of creative freedom. If you loved Two Point Hospital’s humorous take on the health center environment you’ll feel right at home at the controls here, but the game is also incredibly welcoming for newcomers, too. Whilst some of the objectives can be tedious at times they are still very much achievable. If education and management simulation games are your thing you should definitely check out Two Point Campus, even if it is just to build the ultimate Student Union bar.

Forgive Me Father 2 is an unforgettable assault on the senses that’s a must for horror fans who want bombastic action throughout.

We can all rest easy, then: Stray is stunning, creative, funny, and filled with moments that genuinely made my jaw drop. Whether you adore cats, or have some fundamental piece of your soul missing and don’t really care about them either way, this game is the real deal. It might be a little on the short side, but I was never anything less than utterly captivated and thoroughly entertained during the entire adventure. And really, what more could you want from a video game in these trying times?

There are 12 Starry Stages to tackle in total set across all of the base game’s main zones, each level boasting up to 10 Starries to save. While I don’t have my exact completion time, you’re getting quite a number of hours worth of content here and for £16.99 for the upgrade, my firm assertion is that Star-Crossed World offers plenty of bang for your buck. Kirby and the Forgotten Land - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World takes an already stellar experience and expands upon almost every aspect that you know and love. A tad more enemy variety would have been nice but it’s hard to see Star-Crossed World as anything other than a must-play experience.

Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster still isn't without its flaws yet, it retains that gruesome, comical charm that only Frank West let loose in a zombie-infested shopping mall can provide. With the visual and gameplay improvements, there’s more than enough to encourage veteran fans to reinvest in this remaster while making those new feel welcome. In fact, considering all the improvements made to the 2024 version, I’d say it resembles a remake more than a remaster. Nearly two decades later, Dead Rising is more fun today than it was in 2006 and that is nothing short of…. FANTASTIC!

Triangle Strategy is a must-have for anyone who enjoys a good tactical RPG, pretty visuals, or a choice-based story which makes your decisions actually matter. Although anyone can try the first three chapters of the game for free on the eShop, I can’t emphasise enough how little justice this demo does for the whole game - as each hour passed, I progressively fell further and further in love with it, and the very first thing I wanted to do upon seeing the credits roll was find out what would have happened if I’d made different choices. The replay value it offers is immense - although the main campaign can be finished in around 35 hours, it really doesn’t have to stop there at all. Even with the Switch’s stacked 2022 lineup, I genuinely believe Triangle Strategy is going to be up there with the very best releases of the year.

I’ve not played every game here to its end, so I can’t say with absolutely, unfaltering, bet-the-farm-on-it certainty that the emulation is flawless throughout, but everything I have witnessed in The Cowabunga Collection has played smoothly, responded promptly, and been free of bugs or crashes. If you’re planning to pick this up after Shredder’s Revenge expecting more of the same, please, allow me to pause your purchase for a second - these are bare bones indeed after that moreish delight, so buy knowing that you’re getting improved-feature-set versions of much older games, with save-anytime (one slot per game) functionality a real plus, but they are still much older games. Then again, if you’ve the truest Turtle power in your veins, you already know what this is all about and you pre-ordered it ages ago.

Starfield is without a doubt a monumental release - and not just because it's Bethesda’s first new IP in 25 years. Every now and then, a new game comes along that changes our perception of what the industry is capable of. Starfield is that game. This is beyond what we’ve come to know an open-world to be. Bethesda has created a universe that, despite its vast scale, maintains interest and an impressive attention to detail throughout. The journey you embark on will dazzle you, and I have no doubt that players will be gripped for months, perhaps even years to come. Here is a playground where you can be whoever you want to be. I simply cannot stop thinking about Starfield and the wondrous secrets it still holds. Bethesda, I have one word: bravo.

If you’re looking for low-stakes escapism, Moomintroll: Winter's Warmth is an easy recommendation. It’s everything you could want in a cosy game, blending just enough player agency with what is, without a doubt, an incredibly relaxing and playful experience.

I’m definitely eager to jump back in, maybe even tackle the game on harder difficulties, because I was filled with joy by the end, and a little bit of awe. The idea of galactic battles being fought by grunts has been realised with superb levels of detail. It’s not quite the game I hoped would tide me over until the next Gears of War, but it did enough to keep this Warhammer nerd very happy.

Having played Pokémon Legends: Arceus for over 25 hours at time of writing, I can safely say I love this game. Its open areas filled with Pokémon are a joy to delve into, and will eat up hours of your time in what feels like mere minutes. The heavy borrowing of Zelda elements doesn’t detract from its identity as a Pokémon game, proving that change doesn’t hurt the beloved franchise one bit. Then you’ve got the visual style, the gorgeous music, and the joy of filling up a Pokédex in a world that truly suits exploration.

A terrific port of a terrific game, then, finished off with background options, screen size and scan line adjustments, and the option to play the Japanese version (it changes Tails' name to Miles, that's about it). But do you need another version of Sonic 2 in your life? For me, given I've already got this on at least four other platforms - not least of all the Mega Drive itself - I probably wouldn't have grabbed it had SEGA not provided a copy, even with the added Knuckles. But if you've never taken this sensational platformer for a spin before, and the Switch is your console of choice right now? To echo a previous sentiment: it's truly a no-brainer.

Having been released with no build-up, Look Outside is unlikely to feature in conversations alongside gaming horror greats like Silent Hill 2 or Resident Evil, but it deserves to be. Sure, some of the retro designs feel obtuse, or archaic at points, but that doesn’t take away from horrific moments that will stay with me when I’ve switched the game off, and crawled into bed.

All of this is to say that I think Inkle is on to another banger here. Narrative has always been one of the studio’s strongest points, but I absolutely love the way it unfolds here, where much of the backstory can only be pieced together by you. It’s a great method to tell a story in a way that only video games can, by emphasising the interaction between the player and the game, and is now one of the finest examples of doing this.

Planet of Lana II: Children of the Leaf is a new all-time favourite of mine. It’s a near-perfect package, offering a moving and captivating adventure infused with solid platforming and smart, varied puzzle design. Its cliffhanger ending may have us all holding our breaths for yet another instalment, but returning players won’t be disappointed by what’s on offer here. Reuniting with Lana and Mui is a treat, and I hope we all get the chance to do it again.

The Plucky Squire is charm personified, and is impossible not to welcome into your heart. It’s a lovingly made sunny day of a game, a throwback to the classics with enough modern touches and genuinely original ideas to ensure it stands on its own two feet. Don’t leave this one on the shelf, whatever you do.

It doesn’t do much to reinvent the wheel, there’s nothing massive here that separates it from a game like Hollow Knight, but it doesn’t need to, either. I liked that it kept its features and ideas down to the simple fundamentals of the Metroidvania genre, where its appeal rides by on vibes alone. Even after reaching the end of the game, I’m excited to go back and see what I’ve missed, because I’ll bet there’s quite a lot of content I’ve still not seen yet.

The Last Campfire might not be big, but it's clever in all the ways that matter, using its puzzles to represent relatable concerns and obstacles that, sometimes, need a little helping hand to overcome. It's a succinct, complete, so-called 'small' game that's actually got more substance to it than many narrative titles billed as brief experiences, and greater emotional depth than its artwork might suggest. It's a memorable adventure that will appeal to anyone who prefers a mental challenge to a physical one, and who cherishes the small things that make us all who we are, for better and worse.

My advice before I leave you to mull over whether you’ve got enough moxie for this job, is to pause time as often as you need to. Just make sure you unpause it to fulfil some of the actions you’ve requested, e.g. returning an animal to its habitat. From there, just pray to the conservation gods that you have the fortitude to see this through.

So far this year, I’ve played several cosy games, each of which brings their own nuances and unique traits. However, few have captured my attention like Pine Hearts. I didn’t just enjoy it, I felt it. I had tears in my eyes as Tyke’s emotions resonated with my own, the language of loss and grief palpable yet free of foreboding.

Death Howl has been a fantastic time for me, and it’s been a wonder to slowly piece together how The Outer Zone managed to fit two rather opposing genres in a way that feels tangible and engaging.

I cherish the memory of playing Command & Conquer 25 years ago, and yet was surprised to find myself getting frustrated at the slog of completing some of the missions in the first game's campaign. But, given the choice, I still wouldn't change a thing about this remaster.

While the graphics aren’t really anything to write home about, the game oozes with style. Every match feels like it could be its own short film, the genre of which depends on what you’re doing and how well you’re doing it. While the gameplay loop is fairly small and repetitive it takes a long time for a session to get boring, and that time is extended dramatically when you’re playing and chatting with your friends. Playing Helldivers 2 almost makes you feel like you’re back in the golden age of online gaming, it’s pure, silly cooperative fun that offers a tailored experience for all kinds of players, whether you’re looking for something casual or your next big challenge.

I went into the campaign of Black Ops 6 hopeful, but skeptical. It’s easy to get caught up in the pre-release hype and sometimes that can lead to disappointment. Thankfully, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is a blast from start to finish, and provides some of the best moments that this series has to offer. I hope Black Ops 6 is indicative of a long-overdue upturn in quality for the series. If it is, Call of Duty fans have every reason to be excited about what the future may hold. [Campaign Review score = 80]

If you didn’t enjoy PowerWash Simulator, then PowerWash Simulator 2 is unlikely to win you over. What I find relaxing, you may find laborious. But if you’re someone who enjoys the quiet and meditative experience that the PowerWash Simulator franchise has to offer, you’ll find endless satisfaction here. With the improved missions, streamlined graphics, and various new features, FuturLab has finally perfected its original vision, offering a wonderfully fun gameplay loop that you'll struggle to tear yourself away from.

What you need to know now is that despite the elevator pitch for this one being all sorts of I’m Sorry What, Arcade Paradise is hugely compelling. Lunchtimes, evenings, sneaking a virtual day’s work in when the real job’s demands are left to the side: I’ve become completely wrapped up in its spin cycle of weirdly rewarding menial labour and magical multi-game good times. It really won’t be for everyone, and perhaps my own lived-through-the-’90s experience is a factor in my enjoyment here, but if you’re after something that’s really unlike any other game you’ll play in 2022 - or, y’know, ever - Arcade Paradise is as much of a no-brainer as breaking down that first wall into the neighbouring storage space and covering it in puke-concealingly colourful carpet.

It’s immersive, delightful fun and it’s packed with little moments that should see it resonate with a big audience. Whatever Obsidian decides to do next, they should look back on this release as one where they really got all the big calls right.

Jurassic World Evolution 3 is, without a doubt, the best game in the series yet. It gives you more tools to create the best parks possible, and that’s without the added content that the community will eventually produce. The sim management genre might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you love the Jurassic Park and World movies, I have no doubt you’ll love this game. If you give it a chance, Jurassic World Evolution 3 might just be your surprise hit of the year.

I can’t help but love Hell Clock, because it exemplifies the reason I love indie gaming so much. This space offers unique, personal stories paired with enigmatic gameplay that refuses to let me go. It impresses at every turn, constantly surprising me. Even though I opened this game feeling like I’d seen everything within, several times before, I felt that glee of seeing something fresh, and I put my controller down having experienced something built out of passion.

These new additions are seamless and, I hope, can be used as proof of concept for a potential Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 5. I’m aware there is already a fifth game, of course, but Iron Galaxy — and you — would do better to forget about that one...Throw in a slew of secret characters, gameplay mods, multiplayer modes, and customisation options that weren’t in the original games, and you have yourself a little slice of skateboarding heaven in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 Remastered. The birdman has done it again.

Eastward feels comfortably familiar and strikingly fresh all at once, remixing the best elements of classic RPGs to produce something bold, brilliant, and altogether new.

Super Mario 64 and Super Mario Galaxy are not only two of the greatest Mario games ever, they're two of the greatest video games ever. Each brims with ideas, with intelligent and intuitive design, and with an irresistible pull on the player to get through just one more level before calling it a night - which then becomes one more, and another, until your Switch battery dies. Even without anything extra added, and the non-native-platform awkwardness of Galaxy appreciated, they're essentials. Super Mario Sunshine is also included.

It’s an amazing example of how a game can balance both the light and the dark; the majesty and the horror of the world in this time period. The path that lies ahead for these two children who suffer with the weight of the world on their shoulders should sound like a done deal, but you’re chewing your nails to stubs while worrying over the fate of their few friends and praying that there is a life for them yet. In this game, Hugo and Amicia have become unforgettable characters in the medium, and I hope that everyone has the chance to come on this journey with them.

I wanted to like Death Stranding. I'm a big fan of Kojima's previous games and I enjoy them for the mishmash of ideas they always are, and in theory I've no problem with playing a delivery man (I've put far too many hours into Euro Truck Simulator), but this game drowns its exciting systems and ideas with a messy execution and dragged out campaign. By stretching it out to such a long playtime, you can't escape Death Stranding's weaknesses - repetitive missions, simple combat, and a badly told story.

I could continue for another 1,000 plus words describing in poetic prose why Magical Delicacy should be played by everyone, even if platforming isn’t usually your thing. Even so, my words feel so crude and inadequate – they’ll never do this game the same amount of justice as stepping off the ship in Grat for yourselves does.

Little Nightmares II does everything you'd expect of a sequel. It sticks closely to the grimy winning formulae of Little Nightmares, while improving on it in key areas. It's clear that Tarsier Studios know what makes their players tick and delivers it to them in festering bucketloads. Everything from the game's story, to the claustrophobic atmosphere it creates combine into an incredibly compelling package that is a must play for horror lovers everywhere.

LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is the complete Star Wars video game experience, in a way only a LEGO game can be. If there was ever to be a Skywalker Saga: The Video Game ‘proper’, it wouldn’t have a chance to let players experience all the wild wonders of the universe like this. A movie-faithful adaptation wouldn’t let you run around Hoth as General Grievous alongside Yaddle and, in all honestly, that's all I’ve ever wanted.

Super Mario Party Jamboree is an excellent party game for the Nintendo Switch, fit for any number of players even when you’re by yourself. The new modes, boards, minigames and mechanics all work together beautifully, with the cherry on top being you can play the majority of them online as well as locally. While it can often feel like you’re being dealt a bad hand with minigames or NPC helpers, one could argue that’s part of the chaos Mario Party games are best-known for, so I’ll leave it up to you to decide for yourself if it’s your vibe.

It can't be overstated that this is an experience that won't be as rich, as rewarding, as exciting to younger players as it will be to those who were raised on the Mega Drive. But for anyone with fond memories of this genre at its peak, on home consoles and in arcades throughout the 1990s, it's unlikely you'll play a better game of its kind than Streets of Rage 4 in 2020.

Two Point Hospital is a huge amount of fun, and it's so easy to find yourself engulfed for hours at a time, perfecting every single aspect of your respectable institution and unlocking more and more 'kudosh', the game's essential currency for all of those requested upgrades.

All I can really say about Tiny Terry’s Turbo Trip is that for the few hours I spent with it nothing else mattered. I wandered around sometimes focusing on exploration, sometimes switching up and concentrating on furthering the upgrade of the taxi. I chuckled a lot, I explored because I wanted to see and collect as much as possible, and it felt like a nice detour. It was a pleasant diversion in my gaming this week, where I didn’t have to fight big monsters or sit through extended cutscenes. All I had to do was live in the moment, mooching around this bright, colourful and wonky town that constantly delivered humour. I can’t recommend it enough.

To be a part of Arabella’s green thumbed world is a gift. Sadly, it isn’t a gift we can keep enjoying once its complete, due to the way in which the puzzles are solved; their rigidity makes the game more of a one hit wonder. However, despite its short longevity, Botany Manor is everything you want from a plant-based puzzle game. In fact, I’d argue it exceeds expectations. No, I can’t easily return to re-do the puzzles, at least not if I want a fresh challenge, but simply to bask in the glow of the sun-lit grounds? Oh, I’ll return to Botany Manor in a heartbeat.

A fantastic racing game. It's tough to say if it's better or worse than Mario Kart World because both games offer completely different experiences, and will appeal to different types of players. If you're looking for a competitive racer that'll keep you engaged, and possibly enrage, this is it.

There’s no denying the beauty held within the pixel graphics here. The first game has its charms in visual design, but the second game improves in every department, bringing more detail and a range of colours that make practically every scene look like a work of art. There’s also much more joy in building your army of 108 characters here, purely due to the added depth for each member. It’s hard to overstate just how much better this game is, even many years after its release. If you’re an RPG purist, you’ll get a lot from this remaster package, but don’t expect too much.

For what it is, and as a successor to the DS's Clubhouse Games of 2005 (bloomin' heck, how time flies), 51 Worldwide Games is perfect, really. Does that make it a perfect video game? Clearly, no. It's a very recommended collection for super-convenient family-time play, with a handful of attractions that will become regular favourites - like I said, its bowling is dangerously close to becoming an obsession. But it's not something that can be scored alongside a Breath of the Wild, a Persona 5 or a Witcher 3. So while the number below might not immediately scream buy this, if you're hankering for a fine-indeed mini-game collection for your Switch, they don't come much finer than this one.

Loop Hero is exceptional at what it does. It's an addictive game that steals your free time with the same ease as only Minecraft can match. It's perfect for some, but for others it can be a dissatisfying experience as it never feels like you've achieved anything until it's actually over. No little win feels worth it. If you're into roguelikes then this is potentially a great game for you, but it's not for everyone.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard is exactly what we needed after Inquisition. From the moment I stepped onto Minrathous’ streets, it felt like coming home. After such an agonising wait, the franchise I adore is back as strong as ever. It respects what’s gone before while also welcoming change and innovation.