A vast improvement over its predecessor, just by adding Live play and improving the character management system.

Oreshika: Tainted Bloodlines is a masterful retooling of JRPGs before it, and only a handful of problems hold back an otherwise excellent tale of family, honor, and reclaiming what was lost.

>observer_ takes the beats from Bloober Team’s own Layers of Fear, adds a layer of cyberpunk, and somehow comes out the other end both unnerving, and more than the sum of its parts. There are a few small technical hiccups present, and some infrequent uneven voice work, but beyond that there’s an amazing story about the human toll of investigation and observation.

For everything it gets fantastically right, it has an inherent level of frustration contained within that made me reach the limits of my patience.

While it isn't necessarily aimed at people used to more recent RPGs, Persona 2: Innocent Sin is a prime example of the entire reason many of us have loved Japanese RPGs for years.

The game makes you feel like a badass from the word go, and it just gets even more out of control as things progress. Sure, there are some hiccups graphically, and sometimes things can be a little clunky mechanically, but there is no doubt that Saints Row The Third is crazy fun from start to finish.

Flower is a mesmerizing game that truly feels unique, and showcases how Six-Axis control can bring the gamer closer to the experience.

If you are a fan of old school games like Mega Man, this may be the easiest purchase you ever make. JumpJet Rex’s new-school approach to old school platforming, and the addition of the time trial elements and collection itch to scratch, this game is an absolutely must-have.

Filled with strategic gameplay and impactful decisions, The Banner Saga is a gorgeously epic Norse-inspired adventure whose only real fault is that there isn’t more of it.

The Sims 4 Dream Home Decorator Game Pack was just what I needed, as I really wanted to start designing some of my own homes and rooms. I very much enjoyed the hands-on experiences with each of the clients' unique homes. My only complaint is that some of the likes and dislikes are not obvious, especially when it comes to particular styles, and that the clients don’t tell you what you did wrong at the end of the renovation. The reveal at the end is super fun, and reminds me of being on a fixer upper TV show.

13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim on Switch receives a small downgrade in resolution and effects, but is largely the same as its PS4 counterpart. The story is still incredible, and well worth experiencing multiple times.

It is a tremendous value at the cost, and offers hundreds of hours of some of the best strategy gaming available to gamers on any system. [Review of Gold Edition]

Rebuilt from the ground up in every way, Destroy All Humans! (2020) puts every other remaster on notice -- this is how it’s done.

Transcending the line between video game and interactive art piece, Harold Halibut explores the meaning of home on an isolated alien water world. While some pacing issues exist within the larger story, the handcrafted visuals that consistently charm alongside an extravagant cast make this a treat for fans of narrative adventures.

Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a highly enjoyable game that screams 'high quality production.' Despite its lack of gameplay innovation it still provides a certain level of enjoyment most JRPGs do not.

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.

It looks great on the PSP screen, and it offers as much content as any of its console cousins.

Rebuilt in every way, and unlocking the entire Gears franchise for a value-conscious price, this truly is the Ultimate Edition of Gears of War.

Steins;Gate is a complex visual novel with a costly time commitment, but it offers one of the best stories on the Vita.

I struggled to find negative things to say about this game. From start to finish, South Park: The Fractured But Whole had me in stitches. It’s the perfect of blend of smart and silly. It is magnificent and absurdly ridiculous in a way that only South Park can pull off. It’s the best possible excuse to laugh about everything and everyone you know you’re not supposed to.

Thumper is a terrifyingly difficult game, but don’t let that deter you from experiencing its rhythm violence firsthand. The Switch port takes advantage of the system’s features quite well, and its speedy performance and killer sound design will rock your world.

While Marvel Ultimate Alliance isn't reinventing the wheel carved by X-Men Legends and X-Men Legends II, it certainly puts Armor All on the sides, slides in some new rims, and adds aquatread.

Borderlands is leading the way with the new FPS/RPG genre. It strikes a comfortable balance between real-time combat and character advancement.

Madden NFL 13 makes huge strides this year, but also makes a few rookie mistakes. Seasoned football fanatics and casual onlookers should be satisfied with the end result. As seen in my previous Madden reviews, you know that I have had my fair share of issues with the game. If you have been skeptical of Madden before, this year's edition is worth a look. If only they could do something about the number of interceptions.

Full of stuff to blow up and laced with detail. Metal Arms is a great game.

Crackdown 2 is a game that's heavy on action, gameplay and interacting with your friends. At the time of this review, I can't think of another sandbox style game that allows cooperative multiplayer that is this fun and accessible.

It is well rounded, filled with features that you wouldn’t expect in a handheld, and it is a blast to play.

The gameplay sucked me in, but the Franchise mode stole my heart. It’s deep, detailed and easy to get dragged into.