EA Sports FC 26 refines the formula with Authentic mode and better defending, making it a strong entry for fans. Still, it’s an iterative release with limited appeal for newcomers or those seeking major changes.

Yakuza Kiwami 3 is a great way to experience one of the more fun stories in the series thanks to the new and improved gameplay.

Helldivers 2 is an increasingly rare live service success story that leans into what it does best on the ground and makes quick missions fun and easy to play.

While its story and characters could have used more work, It Takes Two is fantastic co-op game that moves masterfully from genre to genre and never overstays its welcome.

While Wrath: Aeon of Ruin might give off the impression that it’s just another boomer shooter in a market already well-past saturation, it manages to forge its own identity by being a throwback to classics of the genre with a flair of its own. And of course, the incredible level design and gunplay go a long way in making the game incredibly fun. The only real downside is that, for its wild settings and visuals, the weapons never really break the mold of classic shooter archetypes.

Jusant mixes rock climbing and platforming with a calm atmosphere and an interesting story.

Buoyed by a fantastic setting, Like A Dragon: Ishin! is bound to be a treat for all fans of the series.

RIDE 6 is the motorcycling series at its most complete, where worthwhile onboarding, progression with momentum, and an overall passion for two-wheel machinery outshines uneven presentation and a festival setting which misses the mark.

The Alters is more than a fascinating concept, mixing strong characterization and impactful decision-making with an enthralling quest for survival, even if the gameplay doesn't always excite.

Like an NFL team’s high new draft pick, Madden NFL 25 provides the franchise hope for the future with its great on-field gameplay, phenomenal presentation improvements, and streamlined gameplay modes, as long as it irons out the predatory microtransactions in the meantime.

Despite many nods to Hood: Outlaws and Legends’ source material, the densely-packed progression mechanics and fun gameplay are the star of the show here. It stops short of being a total showstopper, but comes far closer than you might expect.

Tempest Rising is a wonderful throwback to a genre that often feels forgotten in the modern age.

The Show maintains its place atop the sports games landscape.

MotoGP 25 delivers an authentic racing experience with sharp physics, smart AI, and gorgeous bike models. It offers plenty of modes and deep customization, making it a strong entry in the series. However, lackluster commentary, bland off-track visuals, and a dry career presentation hold it back from greatness.

Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End and the Secret Key doesn't completely rewrite the series' rules, so much as expand and improve on them. It's still a relaxing traipse with Ryza and friends, but evokes a sense of nostalgia and hope for the future.

While the likes of Terraria and Valheim continue to hog headlines, Core Keeper offers strong competition. Its compelling gameplay, excellent art style, and extensive range of content make it worth diving in.

MLB The Show 21 does exactly what a sports sequel needs to do; it refines and expands on the best features of the predecessor, without taking away from what works.

Thanks to a couple of key improvements and changes, EA Spots FC 25 is one of the better iterations that EA Sports' annual football franchise has seen in recent years.

Ninja Gaiden 4 has its missteps, especially during the story and with Ryu's sections, but it's still a triumphant comeback for the franchise.

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 is packed full of content with exceptional visuals and improved physics but it desperately needs patches focused on optimization for a smoother experience.

Diablo 2: Resurrected is a faithful, meticulous remaster that shows just how well the original has aged.

FIFA 22 makes some important changes on and off the pitch, and though there's still plenty of room for improvement, it's still the series' best game in recent years.

A strong outing for the rebooted college football series, with revamped coaching systems and a polished presentation that elevate the experience.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora may not be for those suffering from open-world fatigue, but it delivers an immersive experience for fans with some solid gameplay and storytelling.

For first-timers, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut is the definitive way to experience one of the greatest action-adventure games ever made.

While Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is able to surpass its two predecessors in just about everything from gameplay to story, the PC port is in desperate need of optimization patches.

Invincible VS will be immediately satisfying for the casual crowd, but it also brings genuine competitive potential through its hidden mechanical complexity.

As developer Neowiz gears up for a sequel to Lies of P, fans get one more chance to dive back into its twisted world with the Overture DLC.