The game has appeal and can easily pull in players from various demographics. Kids will love the chaos, older players can find a place to blow off steam. Whether Bang-On Balls has a long life depends on your attention span; it was fine to play in ten-minute bursts (perfect for Steam Deck) in between other games, but it contains so many ‘moments’ of carnage that get lost among the pinballing back and forth. For all the carnage, the collectibles, and the skirmishes, it’s not a memorable game, but it is incredibly enjoyable for those few-minute bursts.

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.

For all of you who fell out of love with the Assassin’s Creed series during the RPG games, I'd urge you to take a leap of faith with Assassin’s Creed Mirage, I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Separate Ways expands upon what was already a great product with the Resident Evil 4 remake, but it also introduces new features into the series that I hope will be carried over into new entries. Resident Evil 4 is already a must-own game for fans of survival horror and now that this version of Separate Ways has entered the fray, it’s elevated the remake to new heights. Oh, and I think it’s time for Ada Wong to have her own fully-fledged game.

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.

The scale and scope of Baldur’s Gate 3 is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Again, I know I’ve become the drunk bloke in the pub hammering on about The Beatles, but I can’t stop myself. I have gleefully joined the ranks of Baldur’s Gate 3’s evangelical, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. In a year groaning under the weight of so many exemplary games, it is frankly astounding to me how much taller Baldur’s Gate 3 looms over the rest of the pack. I’m not sure we’ll ever see anything quite like it again.

I really can’t say enough good things about Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty. It fills me with joy to be able to report that this is a deeply ambitious expansion that fires on all cylinders and never delivers anything less than a stellar experience. CD Projekt RED is walking away from Cyberpunk 2077 in the best possible way, delivering on the game’s immense potential and dropping one final, unforgettable adventure.

Fae Farm is incredibly inclusive, offering a very comprehensive character creator full of aesthetic options that reflect a variety of backgrounds and cultures. It’s a game that I can see a very bright future for - one that is full of undeniable longevity and promise. In fact, I’m already curious to see what adventure my character might be taken on next. Despite having already sunk many hours into Fae Farm, I know with certainty that I’m not going to stop improving my new little home anytime soon. Fae Farm is the gaming equivalent of cosying up with a blanket and a warm cup of tea - albeit a cup of tea that, on occasion, may leave a mildly unpleasant taste. There are improvements to be made but it’s a game that’s comforting, entertaining, and oh so very easy to get lost in.

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.

Sea Of Stars may come across to some as little more than a tribute act to the classics, but I hold no truck with such sniffy dismissiveness. If it is a tribute act, it’s definitely more UK Pink Floyd Experience than your mate’s crappy pub band that plays Arctic Monkeys covers. Sabotage Studios has created an unforgettable, essential RPG that stands on the shoulders of giants and boldly looks ahead to the future. Sea Of Stars is damn-near perfect, and more than deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as the titles that inspired it.

Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is a masterful game that not only reminds veteran fans of the series that this franchise is alive and well, but it also welcomes in a new legion of fans, regardless of whether they have experience with the series or not. It takes the challenging counter-gameplay of Bloodborne infused with high-octane combat and a heavy dose of the signature difficulty that fans of FromSoftware have come to love. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is yet another must-buy from the famed developer and another strong contender for Game of the Year.

If you’re a seasoned fan of Metroidvanias and crave combat and action, Disney Illusion Island may not be for you. If you’re looking for a wholesome dose of Disney though, or an entryway into this genre, Illusion Island is a joyously fun gem with cross-generational appeal that I’ll be recommending non-stop to anyone who will listen. It’s undoubtedly one of the finest-looking games I’ve ever played on the Nintendo Switch and I had heaps of fun exploring Monoth’s expertly-designed sprawling biomes. In fact, while I’ve completed Illusion Island’s main story, I shall imminently be diving back in to scour this world for all the sneaky collectibles I may have missed. This is Disney’s best game to date.

I'd call Pikmin 4 a near-perfect return of the series and well-worth the agonising wait for the game's release. Pikmin 4 feels like a game that took so many years to make, as it's practically overflowing with creativity. It lovingly combines the best parts of the first three Pikmin games, whilst implementing its own fresh new ideas into the mix.

Oxenfree II: The Lost Signals was worth the wait. Not only is it a brilliant sequel in its own right, it’s a welcome reminder of the kind of story we can only experience in a video game. I have no clue what the future holds for Night School now that it’s owned by Netflix, but I can only hope the streaming giant is aware of the talent it now possesses.

It would be a mistake to judge AEW Fight Forever purely on its looks. Sure, this game is basic in a lot of ways, but it’s all about taking it back to the basics and ultimately having fun, and isn't that what playing video games is all about? AEW Fight Forever probably won’t be winning any end-of-year awards, but whether you’re a pro wrestling fan or an arcade brawler, AEW Fight Forever will be one of the most fun video games that you’ll play this year.

To conclude, Final Fantasy XVI is truly an epic adventure. It has a fantastical story, over-the-top character performances, a sublime soundtrack, epic boss battles and it looks gorgeous to boot. Seriously, what’s there not to love about this game? It doesn't matter if you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer like me, Final Fantasy XVI is one of 2023’s most brilliantly extravagant adventures and a sure-fire contender for Game of the Year.

For whatever reason you pick up this game, you won’t be disappointed. Powered by the RE Engine, Street Fighter 6 not only looks better than ever, but it arguably plays better too and it's most certainly the most accessible. Whether you’re a newbie or veteran of the series, Street Fighter 6 is vibrant, packs a mean punch and not for the first time, reminds us why this franchise has remained relevant for decades, with no signs of tapping out just yet. Your move Mortal Kombat 1!

After Us succeeds in what it sets out to do. The world that Gaia is trying to save may be a grave warning to us all, but After Us never feels heavy or oppressive. Your platforming efforts are rewarded by reassurances that maybe everything isn’t doomed after all. Gameplay is perfectly synced with the narrative to create an experience that is both enlightening, interesting, and - despite the doom and gloom - enjoyable. It is a game that makes you feel like you’re making a difference all while reminding you just how to do so in the real world. After Us seeks to better players, not just entertain them. To put it simply, it’s impactful and a must-play.

LEGO 2K Drive is, to use a LEGO classic, awesome. The automatic morphing between vehicles is a stroke of genius - keeping races varied and entertaining. Each track offers a new challenge, and the various hubs of Bricklandia are certain to keep you busy for hours on end, all whilst honing your skills at the same time. LEGO 2K Drive is a classic in the making. Visual Concepts have cruised along the track to victory.

Tears Of The Kingdom effortlessly dances between the epic and the ridiculous - and every single moment in this vast, gorgeous playground will be completely unique to each player. I don’t know how, but Nintendo managed to follow a straight-up masterpiece with something bigger, better, and smarter. I genuinely feel bad for every other video game that has to be released in 2023.

In spite of the fact that the adorable art-style (which looks like it was plucked straight out of a children’s book) is a treat on the eyes, and the accompanying music - although rather repetitive - is very pleasant, Minabo: A walk through life isn’t a game I find relaxing, but just rather boring. While other social simulator games like The Sims give players full control over their characters’ personalities and what they do with their lives, Minabo just sees every vegetable plod along at a painfully leisurely pace, achieving very little other than interacting with their brethren in the most basic ways and sprouting children from the ground. Despite being inoffensive for a short period of time, this isn’t the engaging new cosy game that you’ve been waiting for.

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.

Burning Shores is yet another step up for the series, telling what is undeniably the most cohesive and personal story to date. Add in a stellar new sidekick, refreshed gameplay, and an expansive new world to explore, and Burning Shores is an unmissable highlight - both for the franchise and the PlayStation 5.

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.

Where the likes of Dying Light offers slick parkour and Resident Evil gives us smart survival horror gameplay, Dead Island 2 has nothing of substance to balance out the endless waves of flesh munchers. It’ll undoubtedly satisfy your bloodlust, but it won’t be long before you’re craving something a bit meatier.

Strategy games often take themselves way too seriously whereas Minecraft Legends does the exact opposite. It’s an enjoyable, lighthearted hybrid that prioritises exploration as much as tactical battle gameplay. It’s accessible for younger audiences and RTS newbies while still being challenging at later stages in the campaign. The Minecraft Midas touch has turned another genre to gold but a few hiccups mean Legends isn’t quite a diamond.

Taken purely as a fishing game, Dredge is good fun for a few hours - if nothing new. But when that already engaging loop of upgrades and new discoveries is expertly woven into an atmospheric Lovecraftian tale of unfathomable horrors, it suddenly becomes one of the best video games of 2023. A must-play for those who find themselves wondering why more fishing games don’t have your character desperately clinging to their sanity.

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.

We all get so bogged down by problems both big and small in our loud confusing world but Tchia reminded me that that doesn’t have to be the case. When Tchia would get out her ukulele to play along with friends, family or during village ceremonies prompting me to play along as a form of mini-game, the game would remind me that it didn’t matter if I missed a note - or even partook at all. The joy lies in listening or having a go - not in seeking perfection. What Tchia discovers on her journey wouldn’t be possible without the kindness of strangers and friends. Tchia is also a girl with a powerful gift but this is a game that shows you what happens when you use such a gift for good - and what can befall you if you only seek power. Since I finished playing, I’ve noticed that I'm focusing more on the joy and beauty in my own life. What greater gift could you ask for from a game? Thanks Tchia.

WWE 2K23 might not be perfect, but the series trajectory continues to evolve into one of the best wrestling video game franchises there ever was, then, now and forever. Simply put, WWE 2K23 is a must-buy for fans of the squared circle.

After a 16-hour initial playthrough on Standard difficulty, and a New Game+ run on Hardcore, I can happily say that Resident Evil 4 has benefited hugely from the remake treatment. The visuals are superb. The sound design is exquisite. The character redesigns are fresh yet retain the charms of the classic models. Most impressively, though, the 2023 game plays on your knowledge of the previous iteration, punishing and pleasing you in equal measure.

Wo Long is a game that I suspect is going to be truly adored by the usual crowd of people who get very excited about games that secretly hate them and want to see them die. If you love Nioh, Sekiro, or indeed Ninja Gaiden, you’ll eat this adventure up. As for everyone else? Well, it’s very much a hardcore action game in the old school mould, and that simply means it’s not for everyone.

Scars Above is exactly what you’d hope it would be - a reasonably priced and hugely entertaining third-person sci-fi action-adventure shooter. The team at Mad Head Games have crafted an exceptional game that I’m certain will delight those who pick it up. The developers were clever in their approach - very much aware of what Scars Above could and couldn’t achieve. It isn’t a game that’s dragged down by having ideas beyond its station. It perfectly mixes enjoyable combat with an intriguing world and a compelling story. Add in the immersion of the DualSense controller if you choose to pick the game up on PlayStation 5 and you’re in for a real treat. Scars Above isn’t revolutionary, but it executes what it does very well. When I hit the credits, I was sad that the game had drawn to an end - and that’s all you can really ask for.

Playing Clive ‘N’ Wrench certainly isn’t a smooth experience, but perhaps that’s what the quintessential 90s platformer is all about. I oftentimes felt lost and frustrated by the game’s lack of instruction and difficulty that I was forced to take time away, but those inviting 3D worlds just kept drawing me back in. Clive ‘N’ Wrench isn’t just a warp through space and time. It was a journey into my own childhood nostalgia. If you stick around for the journey, you’ll be rewarded for your perseverance. I worry though that Clive ‘N’ Wrench may be too lacking in fluidity and intrigue for those who fail to notice its tributes and inspirations.

This is a game that’ll make you smile. It’s impossible to play through one of the jolly stages or even simply wander around Merry Magoland without feeling a warmth in your heart, and that’s not something that every game can do.

Irreverence works when you yourself have that playful perspective too, not just as a set of jigsaw pieces that actually don’t make any sort of picture at all.

While fans of the series will undoubtedly get more out of this game than newcomers, it’s a fantastic title that’s worth checking out, both as a samurai story and as a sandbox RPG in general. If you love cinematic cutscenes, frenetic combat and simply killing time in a beautiful virtual realm, then Like a Dragon: Ishin! is a must-play game.

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.

Metroid Prime Remastered is the Nintendo Switch game I’ve been waiting for since the console launched back in 2017, and the surprise release has somehow only managed to exceed every expectation I had for it. This is the perfect version of one of the few truly perfect video games. I only hope that everyone who wrote it off as a clunky fps or Nintendo’s answer to Halo way back when will give it another chance, and discover just how good it really is.

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.

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.

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is a seven to nine hour dose of pure, stake-free fun. It’s a platformer that won’t offer you anything you haven’t seen before, but it executes what it does well. The familiarity of the characters and world is always going to be its selling point, and fans won’t be disappointed by the quality of the humour.

With this Dead Space, the developer welcomes not only faithful players but fresh-faced recruits and stunningly enough, neither of them know what they’re in for. They will love the ride though. Scream if you want to go faster, and all that.

In a different world I feel like Season could have been an incredible mystery adventure in the style of Return Of The Obra-Dinn, completely letting go of your hand and leaving you to slowly piece together why the world is the way it is. As it stands, it’s kind of like that, but is far more concerned with making sure you feel guided and, more importantly, relaxed at all times. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. Season has a vibe, and that vibe is all about brewing up a chamomile, settling down under a blanket, and enjoying the ride.

Did we really, really, really need a cat taming minigame? And you already told me the story of Athia at the start of the game. Why am I now ‘learning’ it again at the end of the game, strolling from point to point, pressing triangle for exposition. It’s a gorgeous game, but God if it’s not like a minorly insipid make-up artist’s Instagram grid. Loads of things to look at but no actual meaning in any of them.

In spite of its flaws, RE:CALL is a really enjoyable time. Its reality-bending gameplay mechanic is distinctive and presented in varied ways throughout the chapters so it never gets overdone, and some of the characters have a surprising amount of depth to them - there’s also some genuinely moving messages about growing from negative experiences. It might not be one of 2023’s most anticipated titles, you shouldn’t let this unique indie pass you by.

The combination of strategy battles and social sim gameplay is more than enough to make Fire Emblem Engage a standout in the already bustling catalogue of Nintendo Switch titles. But when you consider details like the Emblem characters, the multiplayer modes and the fact that it’s just a gorgeous game to look at, it’s hard to imagine this fantastical tale won’t be included in game of the year talks later in 2023.

The main thing is, One Piece Odyssey has made me want to watch the anime. Yes, I’m aware it’s over 1000-episodes-long and is only just getting to its final arc now, but the world of Eiichiro Oda’s franchise seems more inviting now than ever, and that’s all down to what this game has shown me.

In short, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion is a very fun action-RPG with a remarkable story and a loveable hero in Zack Fair. There’s plenty of side content and the combat is satisfying with a welcome hint of uncertainty. While its appeal is big enough for a total newcomer to play, its true brilliance is only really visible to fans of Final Fantasy VII. When you know what comes after, everything in Reunion becomes more meaningful, resulting in a must-play title.

Marvel’s Midnight Suns proves that when the right developer is given the keys to the Marvel toy box, something very special can happen. Like Insomniac Games and Eidos-Montréal before them, Firaxis have been unafraid to put their own stamp on a beloved universe, taking gameplay elements it’s already known and loved for and giving it a Marvel makeover that just works. What could have been a simple XCOM reskin is genuinely the best superhero game of 2022, and an adventure that no fan of costumed do-gooders should miss.

The Callisto Protocol is a lucid dream of a game. You want to escape the terrors flickering before you but once the game gets hold with both tentacles, you’re trapped in the hostile environment of the best horror game of the year.

If you’re a Spider-Man fan with a gaming PC, you’ve got to play this game. From the story to the gameplay, it captures the vibe of being a quippy, caring, web-slinging wonder to a tee. Whether you’re played Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered or not, Miles Morales is a must-play title. Now we just need Gwen Stacy to get her own game.

Overall though, it feels like a patchwork of things the team wanted to make work but didn't finalise. It's like the hotel recreation itself - odd, but promising, and then as we delve deeper and deeper we realise that the enigmatic engineering has its weaknesses and its parts that aren't done yet. This isn't to detract from the fear that I felt, nor from the stomach-churning sense of dread whenever Du'Met turned his head like a hawk realising he might have heard someone breathe. I only wish the nausea wasn't from indigestion after an overstuffed and underdone game.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have finally delivered on the promise of an open-world entry, but with all the technical issues and stripped-back features, it’s hard to not feel like the Nintendo Switch held these games back. But if this is what an open-world Pokémon game is now, it's tantalising to consider what is coming in the future.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have finally delivered on the promise of an open-world entry, but with all the technical issues and stripped-back features, it’s hard to not feel like the Nintendo Switch held these games back. But if this is what an open-world Pokémon game is now, it's tantalising to consider what is coming in the future.

Harvestella is an incredible game. Everything about it just clicks, delivering a farm sim/JRPG hybrid experience that I hope never ends.

Sonic Frontiers is the best 3D Sonic in a long, long time. It’s bigger, faster, smarter, and I absolutely cannot fault its ambition. Unfortunately, it’s constantly derailed by the exact same things that have been holding back Sonic games for the last few decades. With a little more polish, I truly believe Sonic Frontiers could have been one of the greats. As it stands, it’s a frequently good time with occasional flashes of brilliance.

Broken Pieces is a compelling mystery title that’s guaranteed to pull you in if you have it within you to overlook the fact that the game is trying to tackle too many genres at once. It’s a testament to Broken Pieces’ ambition though. The time-management and combat mechanics had the potential to add real urgency to an already intriguing tale, but lacked the refinement to truly achieve that goal. Still, I pushed on - rooting for Broken Pieces. It may not be perfect, but Broken Pieces is a promising start for Elsewhere Experience that shows that this indie studio is one that’ll surely make a name for itself in the world of narrative games.

By the time the credits finally rolled on God of War Ragnarök, I was in bits. There’s so much I still want to tell you about, but I know that if I do I’ll be robbing you of the same joy I experienced. So I’ll leave you simply with this: Ragnarök is a fantastically impressive sequel that delivers in every conceivable way. It expands on and improves the formula established in 2018’s God of War hugely, offering up blistering action, gut-wrenching twists, and truly cinematic boss battles with real emotional heft behind them. This is a high-stakes, high-fantasy rollercoaster from start to finish, and an instant PlayStation classic.

Beautiful of presentation with loads of detail packed into those pixels, and sporting a winningly ‘90s-feeling dance beats soundtrack, Jack Move is a treat from start to finish that anyone with a taste for anything cyberpunk-y should be making an effort to experience.

Bayonetta 3 is a near-perfect game. I’ve never considered that the combat in Bayonetta or its sequel was missing anything in particular, but the third game’s new inclusions are so well refined that it may be difficult to return to the previous titles having experienced this one. Furthermore, the story, despite a few confusing points, has easily cemented itself as my favourite of the three. Not only is this one of the Switch’s best titles of the year, it’s truly one of its strongest to date.

While it’s not without some mild downsides, Gotham Knights is an outstanding title that deserves a space in any Batman fan’s game collection, especially if you want to see his protogés get some deserved spotlight for a change.

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.

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.

I’m fairly confident Scorn is aimed specifically at fans of body horror and the darker sides of humanity, because suffering is a key theme here. But fans of dread-filled atmospheres and H. R. Giger-inspired aesthetics will not want to miss it, so long as you have the emotional resolve required.

Let’s Sing Presents ABBA is an injection of joy best enjoyed in small doses. Thanks to its mass appeal, it’s a game that I can see having longevity in my collection as I pull it out at parties for many years to come, even if it’s not one I’ll be running back to often as a solo player - much to the relief of my neighbours, I’m sure. I’d like to see the song selection expanded, but the game’s ‘difficulty’ is accessible enough to be enjoyed by seasoned sopranos and inebriated dancing queens alike.

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.

With the extensive add-on collection and new visual features and routes, Dovetail Games have created the most comprehensive and detailed rail sim yet. Train Sim World 3 is here to stay, and I can’t wait to see what add-ons are introduced down the line. If you loved Train Sim World 2, and are aching for more train sim action, then you should definitely consider the latest instalment. Whilst Train Sim World 3 doesn’t change the game completely, it remains true to the series and is certifiably the best addition yet.

While the negative side of FIFA is still present, from the way world-class-difficulty AI opponents never miss a shot, to how pace is still a potentially game-breaking attribute, it’s fair to say the good easily outweighs the bad. As EA’s time on this series comes to a close, FIFA 23 is a reminder of why this series is so huge, in more good ways than bad.

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.

NBA 2K23 is a solid basketball game that drops the ball with too much emphasis on microtransactions and poorly-thought out design in its main mode.

The interwoven relationship between gameplay and music in Metal: Hellsinger really is a masterclass in intuitive game design. You can feel the passion that has been poured into the project and I’m happy to conclude by saying that The Outsiders have made a bonafide banger.

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.

Ooblets takes elements of Stardew Valley, the Animal Crossing series and the Pokémon franchise, and stirs them together for a first-rate life sim adventure with hours of playability that feels perfect for the Switch. It’s not flawless, but the good easily outweighs the bad. If you’re looking for a new chill-out game, Ooblets has got you covered.

When the credits rolled on both The Last of Us Part I and Left Behind , I was left with a burning desire to jump straight into Part II - which tells me that Part I succeeded in exactly what it set out to do. I became completely reinvested in the franchise. Fans will find no better way to experience this story, and first-time players are likely to discover a new all-time favourite.

As a game, Immortality is tailor-made for those who like to call movies "films" because it makes them feel superior. Those who exit the theatre and step into the bright light of the halls, instantly initiating a one-sided discussion of how they expected more from that actor given his pedigree, failing to notice crusty popcorn stuck to the back of their trousers. It's for the know-it-alls that realise, diving into these three lost films from Marissa Marcel, they might not know that much about cinema after all.

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.

Destroy All Humans! 2 - Reprobed is sure to be a nostalgic blast from the past for any fans of the original game and series, although given its buggy state, it might be worth waiting to see if a patch can add some much-needed fixes before you dive in - it’s not currently the love letter it aims to be.

In short, Saints Row is a very good game. It’s got highs and lows, with some flaws hopefully set to be patched out by its release date. While it may not blow players away, it’s an enjoyable open-world title with lots to do. Side characters are charming, there are plenty of funny moments, and it’s a perfect game for simply messing around in.

For those who savour competition and putting their skills to the test, there’s a lot to love here in Midnight Fight Express. Its pounding electric soundtrack pulls you straight into the red mist of the action and it even creates a gif of your most successful combos at the end of the level to share on social media. You might find though, once you return to the main menu, blood and bruises smoothed away, you’re as exhausted as Babyface feels.

It’s an incredible sport and action game, with fun lore pieces to ponder while you’re not catching air, grinding lips and shotgunning opponents. To put it simply, don’t miss out on Rollerdrome.

Despite the elevator pitch for this one being all sorts of I’m Sorry What, Arcade Paradise is hugely compelling.

Despite these mild niggles, Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered remains a triumph of AAA video gaming. From the endlessly satisfying web-swinging to the clever RPG elements, from the rich cast of characters to the hard-hitting main story, this is one of the best games I’ve ever played.

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.

Cutting right to the chase, Frogun is primarily a game for players who want to go back to the 1990s. From its visual style to its gameplay mechanics, everything about it screams retro, and that’s both a good thing and a bad thing from where I’m standing. Yes, it succeeds in channelling the past but the downside to that is some awkward controls and punishing levels.

South of the Circle is a thought-provoking narrative adventure that fans of this genre of low-interaction-but-high-storyline-satisfaction will adore, and like Firewatch I would absolutely read the novelisation of it. (Can someone make that happen, please?) I took so many screenshots, so gorgeous is this game at times, and any release that has me seeking wider context for its setting and events is a good one. But it has enough fiddliness, enough tiny faults, for the overall impression to be of excellence fallen just short of.

Overall, I just can’t recommend Xenoblade Chronicles 3 enough. With the series’ most fleshed-out cast of characters yet, a thoroughly enthralling plot full of exciting twists and turns, rewarding side-content, a breathtaking open-world, and a combat system which is more fun than ever, this is an absolute behemoth of a JRPG that in no way outstays its lengthy runtime. Whether this is your first introduction to the series, or the instalment you’ve been anxiously anticipating for the last five years, you’re going to have an amazing time.

Arcade 2nd Stadium doesn’t feel as necessary as its predecessor, where buying all of its 32 games gave you an astounding compilation, possibly the greatest-ever arcade collection of all time.

Live A Live is an epic story made up of multiple narratives and protagonists, taking place over different eras and genres. While from the outside it may appear to be another remastered retro title for Nintendo Switch, it is without a doubt one of the best games I’ve played this year.

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?

As a narrative-heavy game that settles you in the director’s seat to drive these characters towards their respective resolutions, it feels like INTERIOR/NIGHT forgot to finish the story. I mean it genuinely, this game just stops. I sat in the main menu for about 20 minutes trying to work out if I had fenced myself into an abrupt ending or if there was a giant “continue” button in my blind spot. I went back to what I thought were pivotal decisions and chose the opposite to see if that would change the paths, and it didn’t.

The Capcom Fighting Collection is a great partner for and follow-up to the Beat ‘Em Up Bundle , and if you’re a player who used to love pumping their shrapnel into coin-ops to smack the everloving stuffing out of a friend, who may or may not have remained your friend afterwards, it makes for an easy recommendation, especially with the flexibility the Switch version can offer via its small but totally useable Joy-Cons.

Being as succinct as I can, Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes is the finest collaboration between Nintendo and Omega Force to date. The life sim elements are masterfully done, feeling identical to Three Houses. The hack and slash action is sumptuous, with plenty of characters and playstyles to choose from. Lastly, the levels of choice are remarkable, adding plenty of replay value. Fire Emblem fans won’t want to miss this gem, and newcomers who would otherwise be put off by the core series’ tactical gameplay are all set for a grand adventure.

So it’s not exactly a mixed bag, as the moment-to-moment play of Final Vendetta is a lot of fun, albeit hard as nails, and the presentation is terrific. There are a lot more items in the plus column here, than the minus one. And yet, it’s hard to recommend this game to anyone with only a passing interest in the genre.

If you love 1997’s Starship Troopers or the franchise as a whole, you’ll love being able to command your own Mobile Infantry in Terran Command. Whilst this isn’t the strongest strategy game around, it is still an RTS worth a punt, especially if all you want to do is destroy endless waves of bugs. It's an exciting addition to the Starship Troopers franchise which clearly still has its audience so many years after the release of that first movie, and even more since Robert A Heinlein's inspirational novel, which is now a mighty 63 years young. Make Star Wars look positively pipsqueaky.

Whether enjoyed with same-sofa pals or solo, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is a supremely satisfying side-scroller that both rolls back the years and stays mindful of the needs and wants of today’s players. Each blow lands with substance, and every one of its 16 stages bristles with imagination and a palpable admiration of and respect for the source material.

The game’s on-pitch rough and tumble makes it feel as much like Smash Bros. as a ‘proper’ football game, and slapstick animations help sell the bone-crunching tackles and electrified-fence frazzlings. But once you’ve the measure of the Mushroom Kingdom’s idea of a kickabout, the only thing that’ll really have you coming back to this is multiplayer.

Rewarding those who are restrained as well as those who are reckless, The Quarry is nerve-shredding as a single-player game - so who knows what chaos will ensue with its multiplayer modes? For fans of schlocky yet satirical horror games and films, The Quarry is not one to miss.