At any rate, if you have any interest in hockey games whatsoever, then you probably already own this, but if you don’t, go out and get a copy – you’ll have an absolute blast.

This year, the changes to the defense and boost in presentation slide it away from “minimal” and feel much more substantial. But unfortunately, I find the player aspect of Connected Franchise to be one of the biggest parts of the whole Madden experience, and it being a husk of its former self is more than a little disappointing.

Star Wars Pinball VR is a serviceable pinball game that has no business being in VR. The eight tables all feel very similar, the visuals are incredibly low quality, and the Fan Cave is pointless.

Hellblade could have been carried alone by its insanely beautiful graphics and standout voice performances — some of the best of 2017 — but while these scenarios were always refreshing interruptions from long, meditative walks through Helheim, they distracted from the game’s greater focus on demystifying a taboo mental disorder.

Grime is an expertly crafted 2D action-adventure game that combines satisfying combat, tight platforming, and rewarding progression to earn its place as one of the most enjoyable titles I’ve played this year. It’s also got some brutally tough, memorable bosses that will truly test everything you’ve got. If you’re a fan of a challenge and aren’t too fussed about a story, you’ll have an incredible time with Grime.

This is one you will enjoy from start to finish, and it absolutely belongs in your 360 library.

This remaster may be closer to a simple upscale, but Persona 3 Portable is still an incredible game that set the standard for modern Persona. The game looks and runs great no matter what you play it on, with a few caveats. While this probably won’t settle the debate about P3’s definitive version, it’s great to have it easily available.

Overall, I would say Fantasian is good. But there’s a certain something lacking and while I’m reminded of the nostalgic past, it makes me miss how revolutionary Fantasian’s inspirations were. From the character writing of Final Fantasy VI, the 3D revolution of Final Fantasy VII, one of the first RPGs with near full voice acting in Final Fantasy X, or creating a connected world two years before World of Warcraft with Final Fantasy XI on PlayStation 2. Fantasian isn’t changing anyone’s feelings on RPGs. It’s pretty, silly, and cozy with some genuine heart. But it’s like a beautiful cake. It doesn’t feel like a full meal but it’s tasty and I love looking at it. Fantasian is new-ish, but it’s not Neo.

Kirby: Planet Robobot isn’t too deep, but it doesn’t need to be. It captures the fun, jovial nature of its titular character, and breathes some life into an otherwise tepid formula. It’s brief and hardly earth-shatteringly unique, but it’s fun in the way a Kirby game ought to be.

The original Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga was a fantastic adventure, and this remake has not harmed it. You’ll find the same fun and challenging gameplay accompanied by the same witty dialogue that first appeared on the Game Boy Advance in 2003, but now everything looks and sounds much better. The new content, Bowser’s Minions, is not good enough to warrant a purchase by itself; however, since it’s completely optional, it’s also not a reason to stay away.

Sea of Thieves on PS5 is another great way to play a good multiplayer game. There’s a lot more content now than at launch, with tons of things to do either solo or with a crew. With cross-play and save, a wealth of convenience options, and even more coming down the pirate pipeline, this may be the perfect time to brave the Sea of Thieves.

Although there aren’t multiple endings, this game lasts for long enough on its own and creating a new character always adds something different to the game.

There are a few drawbacks and limitations, but Splatoon’s frantic and addicting gameplay is a blast. This is Nintendo’s best new IP in years.

Super One More Jump is a fun, little platformer that fits very well on the Nintendo Switch. It’s unforgiving yet engaging gameplay mixed with some snazzy visuals will have you coming back for one more attempt.

Tearaway: Unfolded is full of the same enchanting charm and clever design found in the original, and the PlayStation 4 gives it a new stage to captivate both returning and new audiences alike.

Trackmania Turbo lacks some of the series’ standards, but still offers a polished and engaging time-trial racer for those looking for a rush of speed. With tons of options for play and the constant chase for a better time, Turbo gets under your skin, and once it’s in there, it doesn’t let go for a long time.

The cutscenes were an enjoyable interlude between bouts of carnage, but the looping quips eventually got under my skin.

When it comes right down to it, if you're a fan of any of the NIS titles or a fan of roguelikes, you owe it to yourself to buy this title. At $30 it's an absolute steal given the amount of gameplay you can get out of it. It's not flawless, but then again, no game really is.

The Sims 4 Seasons is quite frankly the best expansion to come out yet. There are tons of new items, but what sets it apart are the ways it changes the game. It adds so many new activities and things to do and wonderful holidays, it honestly made me feel like this is the first must have expansion for The Sims 4.

If you enjoy The Sims 4, this is definitely a must-have expansion pack. If you’re familiar with the franchise, you’ll recognize a lot of similar things from Sims 3 University Life. It’s a stressful and hectic expansion, but reflects a realistic college experience. Now, if only one jog could shed 50 pounds in real life….

Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is the best version of a great game. It’s got great characters with a lot of depth (except for Itsuki), varied visual themes, wonderful music, and an addictive battle system. Its debut didn’t get the attention it deserved, but maybe this encore will shine a spotlight on one of the best RPGs in recent memory.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink is yet another bold leap for the franchise and it lands gracefully. The combat is a ton of fun with a massive and unique roster of characters. The game could have introduced characters much better and given them more quiet moments, but the story is nice to watch play out, and it all leads into a massive post-game that will keep you playing for a long time.

Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley is a short yet refreshing adventure game whose whimsical world and cast of characters make for a cozy evening gaming session. While the gameplay is simplistic and doesn’t leave much room for deep thought, its strength lies in its ability to allow the player to stop and smell the virtual flowers, taking in the beauty of nature.

The game makes a lot of headway in terms of story quality, and the customization is beyond what we’ve seen in any sandbox title to date. While Saints Row 2 doesn’t reinvent the genre by any means, it brings more than enough big pimpin’ gameplay to keep me busy for a while.

Super Mega Baseball 2 brings a great amount of arcade fun to this historical sport. With great mechanics and pick up and play gameplay, the game keeps you entertained and engaged. Since there it is not an MLB game you can’t use real players or teams, but that doesn't stop the game from holding up as a respectable title.

I’m going to go have Sara shag a few more sims, then I’m calling it a night.

The high points of great graphics, high fun factor, good sound, and high replay value, outweigh the control issues.

Paradise Killer is a fascinating murder mystery set in a strange world with even stranger characters. The game lets you put the evidence together to find out what really happened in a way most don’t. With its unique aesthetic and bumpin’ soundtrack, it’s well worth letting love die to find the facts.